How many rakats are performed during the Maghrib prayer?
The Maghrib prayer consists of three rakats. It is a shorter prayer compared to the other daily obligatory prayers, namely Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (afternoon), Asr (late afternoon), and Isha (night).
Why is the Maghrib prayer shorter than others?
The Maghrib prayer follows the set model established by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who performed three rakats. It is believed that these three rakats were chosen to align with the sunset and offer ease to the Muslim community, as this prayer takes place when people often have their evening meal or engage in various activities after completing their daily obligations.
What does each rakat of the Maghrib prayer entail?
Each rakat of the Maghrib prayer consists of the following steps or postures:
Standing (Qiyam): The prayer begins by standing straight, facing the qibla (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca).
Recitation (Al-Fatiha and additional verses): You recite Surah Al-Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Qur’an, and may also recite additional verses.
Bowing (Ruku): You bend at the waist, placing your hands on your knees while saying, “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great).
Straightening (I’tidal): You rise from the bowing position, keeping your back straight.
Prostration (Sujood): You prostrate, placing your forehead, nose, hands, and knees on the ground while saying, “Subhana Rabbiyal A’ala” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High).
Sitting (Jalsa): You sit briefly after each prostration.
Recitation of the Tashahhud: You recite the Tashahhud, a prayer of praise and glorification of Allah.
Conclusion (Salam): You end the prayer by turning your head to the right and left, saying “Assalamu Alaikum” (Peace be upon you), indicating the completion of the prayer.
Is there any difference between the first two rakats and the third rakat of the Maghrib prayer?Yes, there is a slight difference between the first two rakats and the third rakat. After performing the second rakat, which includes the Tashahhud, you stand up for the third rakat without sitting for the Tashahhud. The rest of the steps remain the same, and the prayer concludes as usual with the salam.
Performing the Maghrib prayer is an essential part of a Muslim’s daily worship, and understanding the number of rakats and the steps involved is crucial for its correct observance. With three rakats, the Maghrib prayer offers a concise yet spiritually fulfilling act of devotion that can be performed after sunset. By adhering to the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Muslims around the world unite in their commitment to prayer and seek closeness to Allah through this significant practice.