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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Islamic Culture and Religious Studies Book -4 Lesson 15 : Philosophy of Prayer Part 2 Having looked at the reasons behind certain actions related to prayer, let us now study a couple of the parts of Salaat in particular that are extremely profound in their philosophy. Of course, we can do no justice to the depth of the matter but if you think more about these things on your own, you will find that they do have great effect on you. 1.
Niyyah All actions in Islam are based on the intention of the person performing them. If a person does good deeds with the aim of gaining praise from others then his action is of no use. The aim of every act must be only to gain nearness to Allah (S.W.T.). A man who depends on the praise of others, is destined to be disappointed because not everyone will admire him and it is impossible to please everyone all the time.
His dignity will depend on the people and he will be respected according to their personal whims. However, a man who performs good deeds for the pleasure of Allah (S.W.T.) has no such problem because he understands that as long he aims to gain the Mercy of his Lord, he will receive his just due. He therefore gains a distinction that does not depend on any human being.
Allah (S.W.T.) says, many times in the Holy Qur'an "Surely all dignity belongs to the Almighty Allah." The sign of a sincere action (Amal-e-Khaalis) is that the performer does not expect any praise or appreciation as a result of it. For example, when a person gives out charity, he should publicize the act and preferably keep it a secret. Even in acts of ebadat, one should not involve Riyaa (showing off).
Praying in the front line in the mosque, coming to Salaat punctually, dressing with great care for salaat are all admirable acts as long as they are done solely for the sake of Allah (S.W.T.). If the aim of impressing others or showing off ones piety comes into the ebadat, then it is nullified and considered a grave sin. We should remember that our acts - big or small - are the only things that can help us in the hereafter.
The people in this world have no influence in the aakhira and we should not waste our time getting their approval. Ikhlaas (sincerity) in worship is the only way that we can both attain perfection and be close to Allah (S.W.T.). 2. Takbiratul - Ehraam After niyyah, we proclaim Allaho Akbar! (God is the Greatest!) as a signal of the beginning of our prayer.