Dhuhr prayer (Salah) is the second of the five daily prayers in Islam. It is performed in the middle of the day, after the sun has passed its zenith and begins to decline westward. The name "Dhuhr" comes from the Arabic word meaning "noon," which reflects the time when this prayer is performed.
The Time of Dhuhr Prayer
The time for Dhuhr prayer begins immediately after the sun has passed its highest point in the sky (zenith) and starts to decline westward. This time is called "zawal." The time for Dhuhr continues until the beginning of Asr time, which starts when the length of an object's shadow becomes equal to the object itself plus the length of its shadow at noon.
The exact time varies throughout the year and depends on your geographical location. Modern prayer timetables accurately calculate this time based on your location and date.
The Significance of Dhuhr Prayer
Dhuhr prayer holds special significance in Islam for several reasons:
Midday and Rest from Worldly Affairs: Dhuhr provides an opportunity to take a break in the middle of the workday for the worship of Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala (Glorified and Exalted is He).
Mention in the Holy Quran: Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala (Glorified and Exalted is He) says in Surah Al-Isra (17:78): "Establish prayer at the decline of the sun [from its meridian] until the darkness of the night and [also] the recitation of Fajr. Indeed, the recitation of Fajr is ever witnessed."
The First Obligatory Prayer: According to some hadiths, Dhuhr prayer was the first prayer that became obligatory for Muslims after the night of Isra and Mi'raj of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him and blessings of Allah).
Importance of Consistency: Regular performance of Dhuhr during work hours demonstrates a Muslim's commitment to faith despite daily concerns.
How to Perform Dhuhr Prayer
Dhuhr consists of four obligatory (Fard) rak'ahs, which can be preceded by four recommended (Sunnah) rak'ahs and followed by another two rak'ahs of Sunnah. Here's how to perform it:
Sunnah Prayer (Before Fard):
- Make the intention for the Sunnah Dhuhr prayer.
- Perform four rak'ahs, divided into two parts of two rak'ahs each (with the performance of the first tashahhud and taslim after the first two rak'ahs).
- It is recommended to recite additional surahs after Al-Fatihah.
Fard Prayer:
- Make the intention for the obligatory Dhuhr prayer.
- Perform four rak'ahs, with tashahhud after two rak'ahs and the final tashahhud and taslim.
- Moderate duration of recitation is recommended.
Sunnah Prayer (After Fard):
- Make the intention for the additional Sunnah Dhuhr.
- Perform two rak'ahs.
- This Sunnah is desirable but not obligatory.
Tips to Avoid Missing Dhuhr Prayer
Many Muslims face difficulties performing Dhuhr due to work hours. Here are some practical tips:
Plan a Prayer Break: Schedule time for prayer in your work schedule in advance.
Inform Colleagues: If possible, explain to colleagues and management the need for a short break for prayer, as fulfilling obligations to Allah Azza wa Jall (Mighty and Majestic) is a priority.
Find a Suitable Place: Inquire about nearby mosques or designated prayer areas at work or study.
Use Our Website/App: Use the prayer time notification and Qibla features on our website and in the app to get precise Dhuhr time alerts and determine the direction of Qibla.
Perform the Prayer at the Beginning of its Time: Try to perform Dhuhr at the beginning of its time to avoid the risk of missing it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dhuhr Prayer
How many total rak'ahs are in Dhuhr prayer?: In total, Dhuhr can have up to 10 rak'ahs: 4 Sunnah rak'ahs before Fard, 4 Fard rak'ahs (obligatory part), and 2 Sunnah rak'ahs after Fard.
Can I perform only the fard of Dhuhr if I am short on time?: Yes, the obligatory part is only the fard (4 rak'ahs). If time is limited, you can perform only the fard. Sunnah prayers are desirable but not obligatory.
How to perform Dhuhr at work or study?: Prayer can be performed in any clean place, using a chair or a mat. In case of extreme necessity, it is permissible to pray while sitting or even by making gestures if other options are unavailable.
What should I do if I missed Dhuhr prayer?: A missed prayer should be performed as soon as possible when opportunity arises (this is called qada').
Conclusion
Dhuhr prayer is not just a religious obligation, but also a wonderful opportunity to take a pause in the middle of the day for spiritual renewal. Regular performance of this prayer helps a Muslim maintain connection with Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala (Glorified and Exalted is He) even amidst daily concerns, reminding them of the priority of spiritual values over worldly affairs.
Remember that consistency in prayer is more beloved to Allah Azza wa Jall (Mighty and Majestic) than sporadic bursts of worship, as taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him and blessings of Allah). Even if you find it difficult to perform Dhuhr due to your work schedule, keep seeking opportunities and asking for help from Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala (Glorified and Exalted is He) to make the performance of this prayer a regular part of your life.