Islamic Prayer Guide for Beginners
Learn how to perform Salah (Islamic prayer) with step-by-step instructions, prayer times, and essential supplications for new Muslims.
What is Salah?
Salah is the Islamic ritual prayer performed five times daily. It's a direct connection between you and Allah, providing spiritual nourishment and maintaining remembrance of God throughout your day.
Don't worry about perfection - Allah values your sincere effort and intention as you learn.
Prayer Times
Fajr
Before sunrise
2 units (Rak'ahs)
Dhuhr
Midday
4 units (Rak'ahs)
Asr
Afternoon
4 units (Rak'ahs)
Maghrib
After sunset
3 units (Rak'ahs)
Isha
Night
4 units (Rak'ahs)
Before You Pray
Wudu (Ablution)
Ritual washing to achieve purity before prayer:
- 1. Wash hands three times
- 2. Rinse mouth three times
- 3. Rinse nose three times
- 4. Wash face three times
- 5. Wash arms up to elbows
- 6. Wipe head once
- 7. Wash feet up to ankles
Prayer Preparation
- • Face the Qibla (direction of Mecca)
- • Pray on clean surface/prayer mat
- • Wear modest, clean clothing
- • Remove shoes
- • Have sincere intention (Niyyah)
- • Find a quiet space
Learn Prayer from Trusted Sources
Islamic prayer (Salah) is a comprehensive act of worship with precise movements, recitations, and spiritual components. Rather than providing an incomplete guide, we recommend learning from established Islamic educational institutions and scholars.
📚 Comprehensive Resources
- IslamQA - Prayer Guide - Detailed rulings and step-by-step instructions
- IslamicFinder - How to Perform Salah - Complete visual and written guide
- SeekersGuidance - Prayer Essentials - Structured courses with scholars
🕌 Local Learning
- Visit your local mosque - Imams and community members can teach you in person
- Islamic centers - Many offer beginner classes for new Muslims
- Prayer apps - Visual and audio guides with proper pronunciation
- YouTube channels - Search for "How to pray Salah" from reputable Islamic channels
Important: Learning prayer correctly is essential, as it's one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Take time to learn from qualified sources, and don't hesitate to ask questions at your local Islamic community.
Learning Takes Time
Don't feel overwhelmed. Start with what you know and gradually learn more. Allah accepts your sincere effort, even if your prayer isn't perfect yet.
The most important thing is to begin and maintain consistency.