How to Perform Salah According to Shafi'i Mazhab: A Step-by-Step Guide

Performing salah (prayer) according to the Shafi'i school of thought involves specific actions and recitations. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Intention (Niyyah):

Indeed, verbally uttering the intention (niyyah) for salah is considered a recommended (sunnah) practice in Islam. Although it is not obligatory (wajib), it serves as a means to reaffirm one's commitment and focus on the act of worship about to be performed. The niyyah is primarily an internal commitment made within the heart, but expressing it verbally can enhance mindfulness and sincerity.

The key is to ensure that the primary intention remains in the heart, and any verbal expression is an additional aid to reinforce that intention. This practice aligns with the concept of being conscious and mindful (hudhur) during solat, emphasizing the sincerity and devotion of the worshipper.

It's important to note that the niyyah should be specific, indicating the type of salah, the number of units (rak'ahs), and whether one is performing it as an imam or follower in a congregation. This clarity in intention contributes to the validity and sincerity of the worship.

For example, if you’re intending to pray subuh prayer individually, you can utter:

أُصَلِّي فَرضَ صَلَاةَ الصُّبحِ رَكعَتَينِ لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

I intend to pray the obligatory subuh prayer in two raka’at for Allah Ta’ala

When praying in congregation, we need to specify our intention as either the imam (person who leads the congregational prayer) or ma'mum (follower or congregant).

For the Imam:

أُصَلِّي فَرضَ صَلَاةَ الصُّبحِ رَكعَتَينِ إِمَامًا لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

I intend to pray the obligatory subuh prayer two raka’at as Imam for Allah Ta’ala

For the Ma’mum:

أُصَلِّي فَرضَ صَلَاةَ الصُّبحِ رَكعَتَينِ مَأْمُومًا لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى

I intend to pray the obligatory subuh prayer two raka’at as Ma’mum for Allah Ta’ala

Being present (Hudhur) in mind and heart during salah is crucial for the sincerity and effectiveness of the prayer. It involves focusing the mind on the act of worship, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a conscious awareness of the movements and recitations in the prayer.

Taking wudhu (ablution) mindfully is indeed the initial step toward preparing for a mindful salah. Wudhu not only cleanses the body but also symbolizes a spiritual purification, preparing the worshipper to stand before Allah in a state of physical and spiritual cleanliness.

Here are a few tips to enhance mindfulness during solat:

• Conscious Breathing: Pay attention to your breath, taking slow and deep breaths. This can help calm the mind and increase mindfulness.
• Focus on Pronunciation: When reciting Quranic verses or supplications, focus on pronouncing each word correctly. Reflect on the meanings of the verses to deepen the connection.
• Avoid Rushing: Take your time in each movement of the prayer. Avoid rushing through the postures, allowing for a more mindful and reflective experience.
• Minimize Distractions: Choose a quiet and secluded place for prayer to minimize external distractions. Silence electronic devices to maintain focus.
• Internal Reflection: Use moments of stillness, such as in the sujud (prostration), to internally reflect on your relationship with Allah, express gratitude, and seek forgiveness.

Remember that achieving complete mindfulness in solat is a gradual process, and sincere efforts to improve focus and consciousness in each prayer are commendable.

Read the previous blog for an introduction to a Step-by-Step Guide to Perform Salah