Dr. Jamil Akhtar
In Pakistan, uncountable people gather daily for prayer (Salat), a basic Islamic ritual of cleansing the soul and inculcating the right moralities. However, this has not been accompanied by a corresponding change in the culture and society because problems such as corruption and moral breakdown are evident in society. This raises a crucial question: If so many individuals are observing their prayers why are ethics and moral values still degrading? This contradiction raises the question of further exploration of the spiritual dimension of Salat, the need to go beyond the outer shell that no longer brings the desired positive change within a person and in society as a whole. This paradox may further indicate that it is time to look beyond the external image of Salat for worship and examine whether it is possible to bring further positive spiritual change within individuals and society. This transition from genuine interaction to mere social courtesy is perhaps indicative of a larger problem in attaining the rich divine interpretation of Salat and in realizing the profound spiritual essence of Salat. To recapture this sacred act and aim at the essence of its performance, it is essential to examine its potential customs, meanings, and interpretations that are based on the Quran and Sunnah. Salat is one of the most important pillars of Islam in the form of a ritual, intended to create a strong spiritual connection with Allah (SWT). The Quran clearly articulates its purpose: “Indeed, I am Allah. There is no deity except Me, so worship Me and establish prayer for My remembrance” (20:14). This verse focuses on Salat not being just a mandatory physical practice, it is a conversation with God and even a continuous spiritual reminder of the Divine. However, in Pakistan, most people regard it as a duty rather than as a spiritual devotion to God. Therefore, to bring back the essence of Salat, it is vital to contemplate the contents and how it can transcend routine-based activities.
Thus, the process of changing Salat from a mere routine activity into a source of rejuvenation of the human spirit and nourishment starts with intention, awareness, and mindfulness. When offering Salat, ensure that you free your mind from any worldly thoughts or concerns and concentrate on the importance of each recitation. The first Takbir, Allahu Akbar, should be said with a deep appreciation and realization of the greatness of Allah. When you recite surah Al-Fatiha and other surahs, try to understand the meaning of the surahs and see how you can relate them to your own life. This is very important especially when practicing Salat where movements such as standing (Qiyam), bowing (Ruku’), and prostrating (Sujood), denote certain spiritual feelings. ‘Standing’ is the position of readiness to accept Allah’s commands, while ‘bowing’ expresses submissiveness, and ‘sujood’ complete surrender to Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so make abundant supplication” (Muslim). The closeness in ‘Sujood’ has a special significance as it provides a chance to prostrate in front of Allah and supplicate in the most sacred manner possible, by transcending the physical motions and reaching into the heart of divine closeness.
Of course, Salat is associated with the prayer mat, but it should shape our behavior throughout the day and our character. The Quran asserts, “Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater” (29:45). This verse wholly depicts the reality that the real utility of Salat is in its effectiveness of preventing the individuals from the immoral behavior and to be informed and mindful of the powers of Allah. Particularly when we apply the lessons of Salat to our everyday practice, it means that the principles are guiding people’s actions and behavior. For example, the humility and modesty observed during Salat should foster a kind and humane approach toward other beings. The values of patience and self-control developed through Salat should thus be brought to bear in our relating with people and consequently should help engender a more tolerant and mutually harmonious society in Pakistan. Restoration of Salat’s spiritual essence must be a common agenda among the members of the society. Awareness raising among educators and members of the community is important in enhancing a deeper understanding of Salat. Most of the schools and religious institutions should not just teach students how to perform Salat but also the purpose of the act and its spiritual dimensions. Lectures, presentations, and discussions can assist individuals in understanding the philosophical aspects of Salat and its implementation.
This transformation is primarily the responsibility of the community leaders. It is equally useful to arrange occasions that help individuals think about the spiritual side of Salat and discuss the topic. It is suggested that launching discussions and the sharing of impressions and stories in the context of Salat in specialized halls of mosques and community centers will help create a more spiritually connected society. Due to this understanding of spirituality inherent in the Salat, families play a crucial role in developing the Salat practice. To a child, parents should not just explain how to make Salat but also explain the meanings of Salat and its importance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised, “Teach your children to pray when they are seven years old” (Abu Dawood). Since the procedure is taught to the children at such a young age they grow up embracing the act of Salat throughout their entire lives. Admixing technology into the practices of religious groups also aids in the fortification of spirituality if properly done. Authentic mobile applications and other available online materials should be used to learn about Salat. However, it should be done to complement our spiritual goal rather than distract us from it by focusing on the tools being used. Concisely, technology should help toward increase our knowledge and performance of Salat and not be a source of distractions.
This is why the first change for the society of Pakistan and regaining the essence of Salat is to shift from perceiving the process as an individual’s mechanical action or religious duty to perceiving it as a spiritual journey. People can easily re-establish their connection with Allah, consequently, when they reflect on the Quranic verses and Ahadith along with its findings. New educational programs, initiatives in communities and families’ involvement, and adequate attitude to the modern technologies usage, will transform the Salat act into the act of power of spirituality. New educational programs, community participation, and family involvement, and an appropriate approach to the use of modern technologies, will turn the Salat act into a spiritual act of power. Let the change from the formality of Salat to the reality of closeness to Allah and the essence of prayer as Allah has promised them in every Salat. Accepting Salat as a source of light and guidance will enhance and improve the spiritual standards of Pakistani societies, their connection with Allah (SWT), and their links with one another.
The Author is Assistant Professor at PU, Lahore.
