For Muslims, performing daily prayers is not only an act of worship but a means to establish a connection with Allah SWT, seek guidance, and cultivate inner peace. Each daily prayer, known as Namaz or Salah, includes specific numbers of rakat (units of prayer).
These namaz rakats vary based on the prayer time and have a specific structure and recitation. In this article, we’ll explore the rakats for each of the five daily prayers: Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha according to authentic narrations.
What Is Rakat in Salah?
A namaz rakat is a unit of Islamic prayer that includes specific movements and recitations. It comprises standing (Qiyam), bowing (Ruku), and prostrations (Sujood). Each movement symbolises humility, submission, and acknowledgement of Allah’s greatness. For every obligatory prayer (fard), there are specific numbers of rakats that Muslims perform at different times of the day.
Let’s go through each prayer and the required rakats in detail.
Fajr (Dawn Prayer)
The Fajr prayer is the first of the five daily prayers and must be performed before sunrise. It has a unique spiritual significance as it starts the day with worship, gratitude, and remembrance of Allah.
- Number of Rakats: 4 Rakats
- 2 Sunnah Rakats: Voluntary but highly recommended as per the Sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- 2 Fard Rakats: Obligatory and must be performed for the prayer to be valid.
According to authentic hadiths, the two Sunnah rakats of Fajr hold immense reward. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The two rakats of Fajr are better than this world and all it contains.” (Muslim)
Total Rakat for Fajr: 4 (2 Sunnah + 2 Fard)
Dhuhr (Midday Prayer)
The Dhuhr prayer is performed after the sun has passed its zenith and marks the midday. This prayer provides a spiritual break from daily activities and reminds Muslims of the importance of balance in life.
- Number of Rakats: 12 Rakats
- 4 Sunnah Rakats (before the Fard): Highly recommended and a consistent Sunnah of the Prophet.
- 4 Fard Rakats: Obligatory, the core part of Dhuhr prayer.
- 2 Sunnah Rakats (after the Fard): Encouraged for additional blessings and rewards.
- 2 Nafl Rakats: Optional but beneficial for increasing one’s connection with Allah.
These Sunnah rakats are highly rewarding. It is narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regularly prayed four rakats before the obligatory Dhuhr.
Total Rakat for Dhuhr: 12 (4 Sunnah before + 4 Fard + 2 Sunnah after + 2 Nafl)
Asr (Afternoon Prayer)
The Asr prayer is the third daily prayer and is performed in the late afternoon. It serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of pausing for spiritual reflection amidst busy schedules.
- Number of Rakats: 4
- 4 Fard Rakats: These are obligatory and should be performed with sincerity and mindfulness.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged believers to guard the Asr prayer and cautioned against neglecting it, as it carries special importance among the daily prayers.
Total Rakat for Asr: 4 (4 Fard)
Maghrib (Sunset Prayer)
The Maghrib prayer is unique as it is performed right after sunset, marking the end of the day. With fewer rakats than other prayers, Maghrib is simple yet spiritually enriching.
- Number of Rakats: 7 Rakats
- 3 Fard Rakats: Obligatory and should be performed immediately after sunset.
- 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah Rakats: These two rakats follow the Fard and are highly encouraged.
- 2 Nafl Rakats: Optional and beneficial for those who wish to gain extra rewards.
Maghrib is often referred to as a transitional prayer between day and night. Completing it promptly is an important aspect of its observance.
Total Rakat for Maghrib: 7 (3 Fard + 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah + 2 Nafl)
Isha (Night Prayer)
The Isha prayer is the final prayer of the day, offering Muslims the opportunity to end their day with devotion and seek protection from Allah.
- Number of Rakats: 17 Rakats
- 4 Fard Rakats: Obligatory and the core component of Isha.
- 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah Rakats: Recommended and highly rewarding.
- 2 Nafl Rakats: Additional rakats that offer extra merit for those who wish to earn further blessings but are completely optional
- 1 or 3 Witr Rakats: Considered an essential part of the Isha prayer, Witr is a distinctive prayer with odd rakats and is recommended to be completed last.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of Witr as part of Isha, stating, “The Witr is a duty for every Muslim.” (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
Total Rakat for Isha: 9 or 11 (4 Fard + 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah + 2 Nafl + 3 Witr + 2 Nafl)
Namaz Rakat: Final Thoughts
Knowing the rakat for each daily prayer helps Muslims maintain discipline and fulfils the obligation of prayer in its correct form. Each rakat offers an opportunity to connect with Allah, experience spiritual growth, and earn blessings.
Muslims are encouraged to adhere to the Sunnah and Nafl rakats as much as possible, for these voluntary prayers hold immense rewards. The Prophet SAW said:
“Allah will build a house in Heaven for whoever is diligent in observing 12 Sunnah Rak’at (as follows): 4 Rak’at before and 2 after the Zhuhr (Midday) Prayer, 2 after the Maghrib (Sunset Prayer), 2 after the ‘Isha (Evening) Prayer and 2 before the Fajr (Dawn) Prayer.” (Tirmdhi)
Whether it’s the tranquillity of Fajr, the reflection of Dhuhr, the quiet devotion of Asr, the gratitude of Maghrib, or the closure of Isha, each prayer nurtures the heart and soul.
Performing Namaz with the correct number of rakats is fundamental to a practising Muslim’s daily routine and ensures that they align with the practices established by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Through this guide, may Allah help us maintain the practice of prayer in our lives and grant us steadfastness in our worship.