Our third Holy Imam, Hussayn (a.

Our third Holy Imam, Hussayn (a.s.) stood on the plains of Karbala, surrounded by thousands of enemy soldiers yet, in the middle of battle, he and his faithful followers prayed in Jama'at at the time for prayers. Such was their intense love, faith and submission to the Almighty! The Holy Prophet (s.a.w.w.) made it very clear that avoiding congregational prayers was amongst the signs of hypocrisy and Kufr. It is therefore our duty to take his orders on salaat seriously.

Praying together has great benefits on the society. The standing in lines, shoulder to shoulder - rich, poor, black, brown, white, all the same in the eyes of the Lord - and Musaafaha (hand shaking after prayers) creates a strong bond of friendship which if nurtured, blossoms in the Muslim communities and becomes a shining example for others to emulate. Prayer in Jama'at allows people to get to know each other and creates love between Muslim brothers.

Our eighth Holy Imam, Al-Redha (a.s.) has said: "Anyone who intentionally makes (lame) excuses for not attending the congregational prayers will not be accepted by the Almighty Creator." When praying in congregation it is necessary to follow an Imam (leader). This man must be God-fearing, just and one who is acquainted with the Islamic Sheriat. Only then can he lead others in prayer.

During congregational prayers, all must stand in absolute discipline and order behind the Imam and show humility towards the Lord and the Master of the Universe. You must try and feel His presence and love in your heart. After Takbiratul-Ehraam when you raise your hands to the skies and say "Allaho Akbar", try and feel the greatness of Allah (S.W.T.) and realise how weak you are in front of His Majesty.

Sincerity of intention is one of the most important requirements in communication with the Lord. The followers of Jama'at must follow the Imam in all the actions in prayers. In the first 2 Rakaats (units), while the Imam recites Sura Al-Hamd and any another short Sura, his followers must remain silent and concentrate on the words. However, all other dhikr may be read (silently) by those in Jama'at.

It has been said by our eighth Holy Imam, Al-Redha (a.s.): "One rakaat of Salaat in congregation is equivalent to a thousand rakaats of fardh (individual) prayers!" "Fill the mosques with your presence, for they are the central pivot of Islam. Indeed!