Beyond the five daily obligatory prayers, Islam offers believers a profound opportunity to grow closer to their Creator through optional prayers in Islam. These voluntary acts of worship known as Nafl or Sunnah reflect a believer’s deep love, sincerity, and devotion to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى).
At Madrasat EL Quran, we emphasize the beauty and importance of these optional prayers, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who consistently practiced them and encouraged his followers to do the same.
From the peaceful stillness of Tahajjud to the radiant blessings of Duha, and the heartfelt guidance found in Istikhara, these prayers are far more than rituals. They are spiritual tools to uplift the soul and reinforce the unbreakable bond between the servant and the Lord.
Voluntary Prayers That Ensure Paradise: Optional Prayers in Islam
Islam encourages a wide range of voluntary prayers, each offering unique spiritual benefits. In the following sections, we’ll explore the types of optional prayers in Islam, beginning with Sunnah prayers, followed by Nafl, and other special voluntary acts of worship.
Sunnah Prayers in Islam – Nafl Prayers
Sunnah prayers are the voluntary prayers that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regularly performed in addition to the obligatory (fard) prayers. While these prayers are not mandatory, they are highly recommended as they hold immense rewards.
By following the example of the Prophet, Muslims not only earn rewards for themselves but also make up for any missed obligatory prayers on the Day of Judgment.
There are two categories of Sunnah prayers:
- Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Confirmed Sunnah): These are the Sunnah prayers that the Prophet ﷺ performed consistently, such as the two rak’ahs before Fajr, or the two rak’ahs after Zhuhr.
- Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah (Non-Confirmed Sunnah): These are the optional prayers that the Prophet ﷺ occasionally performed, such as the rak’ahs before Asr.
Here is a summary of the common Sunnah prayers:
- Fajr: 2 rak’ahs of Sunnah before the obligatory 2 rak’ahs (Aloud).
- Zhuhr: 2 or 4 rak’ahs of Sunnah before the 4 rak’ahs of Fard, and 2 rak’ahs after.
- Asr: 2 or 4 rak’ahs of Sunnah before the Fard (it is forbidden after Asr until sunset).
- Maghrib: 2 rak’ahs of Sunnah after the 3 rak’ahs of Fard.
- Isha: 2 rak’ahs of Sunnah after the 4 rak’ahs of Fard, followed by Witr prayer.
Witr Prayer: This can be performed after Isha prayer and consists of an odd number of rak’ahs, usually 1 or 3, but up to 13. Witr is concluded with a supplication (Qunoot), which can be recited either before or after bowing (Ruku).
Voluntary Prayers In Islam
Praying After Wudu
It is recommended to pray two rakahs after performing wudu, even if it’s not time for a major prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that the most beloved deeds to Allah are those done consistently, even if small. Bilal (RA) narrated that the Prophet ﷺ told him he heard his footsteps in Jannah because Bilal always renewed his wudu and prayed two rakahs each time. The Prophet ﷺ also said, “Whoever makes wudu like mine and prays two rakahs will have their sins forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari)
Salatul Dhuha
Dhuha prayer can be prayed after sunrise and before noon. The Prophet ﷺ called it the prayer of the “Awabin,” referring to those who turn to Allah in repentance. He also mentioned that two rakahs of Dhuha prayer can substitute for many forms of charity. Praying this simple and rewarding prayer is encouraged.
Qiyam Prayer
Qiyam (or Qiyam al-Layl) is the night prayer, especially beneficial when performed in the last third of the night, before Fajr. It is a prayer done in solitude, strengthening one’s faith and connection with Allah. The Prophet ﷺ recommended this prayer, stating that the best prayer after the obligatory ones is the prayer at night. In Qiyam, one can recite long portions of the Quran and make abundant supplications, particularly for forgiveness.
Janazah Prayer
Janazah prayer is performed for a deceased Muslim. It is considered Fard Kifayah – obligatory for the community, but not every individual must perform it. The Prophet ﷺ mentioned that those who attend the Janazah and follow it to the burial will earn great reward, likened to the weight of Mount Uhud. It symbolizes the strength of the Muslim community, especially during times of loss.
Tahajjud Prayer
Tahajjud, or Qiyam al-Layl, is a highly recommended prayer at night, especially the last part before dawn. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized its importance, saying, “The best prayer after the obligatory prayer is prayer at night.” (Muslim). It is a means of strengthening faith and seeking forgiveness. The Prophet ﷺ also told of Allah descending to the nearest heaven during the last third of the night, asking if anyone seeks forgiveness. Thus, the last part of the night is the most virtuous time for prayer.
Salat al-Ishraq
Salat al-Ishraq is a Nafl prayer offered 45 minutes after sunrise (Hanafi) or 20 minutes (Shafi’i), consisting of 2-12 rakats. After Fajr, one stays seated for Dhikr or recitation until the sun rises, then performs 2-4 rakats. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that regular Ishraq prayer leads to forgiveness of sins, even if as numerous as the foam on the sea. He also stated that performing this prayer after Fajr grants the reward of one Hajj and one Umrah.
Salat al-Awwabin
Salat al-Awwabin is a prayer offered after the obligatory and Sunnah Maghrib prayers, consisting of 6 to 20 rakats in sets of two. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that praying 6 rakats after Maghrib, without speaking indecently, rewards the worshipper with 12 years of worship. He also mentioned that praying 20 rakats grants the reward of a house in Paradise. Additionally, those who pray 6 rakats after Maghrib are counted among the Awwabin, as mentioned in the
“Your Lord is best aware of what is in your hearts”
رَّبُّكُمْ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا فِى نُفُوسِكُمْ إِن تَكُونُوا۟ صَٰلِحِينَ فَإِنَّهُۥ كَانَ لِلْأَوَّٰبِينَ غَفُورًا
Surah Al-Isra (17:25 )
Salat at-Tasbih
Salat at-Tasbih consists of 4 rakats, with 75 tasbihs (سبحان الله والحمد لله ولا اله الا الله والله اكبر) recited in each rakat, totaling 300. The prayer is performed with specific tasbih recitations during each movement. The Prophet (ﷺ) recommended it to his uncle Abbas (رضي الله عنه) as a means to forgive sins, both past and future. It can be offered daily, weekly, or at least once in a lifetime. [Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi]
Salat as-Safar
Before traveling, it is recommended to offer two rakats of prayer at home. Upon returning, two rakats should be prayed in the mosque. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that these two rakats are the best thing a person can leave behind for their family before a journey. [Tabarani, Muslim]
Salat al-Istikhara
Salat al-Istikhara is performed to seek Allah’s guidance when making a decision. After praying two rakats, the supplicant recites a specific dua asking Allah to guide them towards what is best for their religion, life, and afterlife. The Prophet (ﷺ) taught this prayer for important decisions. [Bukhari, Tirmidhi]
Salat al-Hajat
Salat al-Hajat is offered when seeking Allah’s help to fulfill a specific need. It consists of two rakats after performing ablution. Afterward, the worshipper makes a sincere supplication, asking Allah for assistance in fulfilling their need, using a specific dua. [Ahmad, Tirmidhi]
Salat at-Tauba
Salat at-Tauba is a prayer for seeking Allah’s forgiveness after committing a sin. The worshipper performs ablution, prays two rakats, and then asks for forgiveness. The Prophet (ﷺ) said that anyone who repents in this way will be forgiven. The prayer is based on the verse from Surah Aal Imran (3:135), which highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness from Allah. [Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi]
Salat at-Tahiyatul Wudu
After performing wudu, it is recommended to pray two rakats of nafl, known as Tahiyyat al-Wudu. The Prophet (ﷺ) stated that anyone who performs wudu properly and offers these two rakats with sincerity will have Paradise guaranteed for them. This prayer is a means of expressing gratitude for the ability to purify oneself. [Muslim]
Salat al-Khawf
Salat al-Khawf is a special prayer performed during times of fear or danger, such as during a battle. The Prophet (ﷺ) performed this prayer during the Battle of Uhud. The prayer is done in two groups: one group faces the enemy while the other prays with the imam. After each group prays one rak’ah, they switch places. This ensures that the prayer is offered while maintaining vigilance. [Mukhtasar al-Quduri]
In conclusion, optional prayers (Optional Prayers in Islam) are a valuable means of drawing closer to Allah and enhancing spirituality.
Whether it’s the Sunnah or Nafl prayers, they provide significant opportunities for Muslims to strengthen their worship and seek mercy and forgiveness.
From Witr prayers to Tahajjud and Salat al-Tawbah, each optional prayer holds immense spiritual and psychological benefits.
Therefore, Muslims should make a conscious effort to perform these prayers regularly to build a stronger connection with Allah and earn great rewards in this world and the Hereafter.
FAQ about Optional Prayers in Islam
What are the non-obligatory prayers?
The non-obligatory prayers include the two Rak’ahs before Asr, the two Rak’ahs before and after Maghrib, and the two Rak’ahs before and after Isha, among others. While performing these prayers brings great rewards from Allah, neglecting them does not incur sin.
What prayer is not mandatory in Islam?
In Islam, the non-mandatory prayer is known as Nafil or supererogatory salah. These prayers are voluntary acts of worship that can be performed at any time, except during the times of prohibition. Sunnah prayers, which were consistently performed by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) or recommended by him, are also considered non-obligatory. While they hold great spiritual reward, they are not compulsory for Muslims.
Which prayers are compulsory in Islam?
In Islam, there are five mandatory prayers that are considered fundamental pillars of the faith. These prayers are: Fajr, performed before sunrise; Dhuhr, performed after midday; Asr, performed in the afternoon; Maghrib, performed just after sunset; and Isha, performed after the twilight has disappeared. These five daily prayers are obligatory for every Muslim who has reached the age of maturity, and they form a crucial part of daily worship, being one of the Five Pillars of Islam that every Muslim must adhere to.
