Islam consists of 5 Pillars. And Salah (referred to as Namaz) is the second of the 5 Pillars of Islam. Salah is a compulsory act, must be performed five times a day. Salah is intended to focus the mind on Allah and is seen as a personal communication with Him that expresses gratitude and worship. Salah is a compulsory act. Salah is among the greatest foundations of Islam, the highest among the actions of Eeman, the shortest way to Allah.

The prayers are recited in the Arabic language and consist of an ayah from the Qur’an. It is the sought after shelter of the repentant, the safe place for the frightened, the best asset of the hard-working and tranquillity for the worshippers’ hearts.

Prophet (ﷺ) said: “The five daily prayers and the Friday prayer until the Friday prayer are expiation (forgiveness of sins) for what is between them.” SAHIH MUSLIM 448

Salah starts with Takbeer (saying Allaahu Akbar Meaning: Allaah is the Greater), and ending with Tasleem (saying: as-salaamu ‘alaykum waRahmatul-lahi wabarakatuh Meaning: May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you).

Moreover you must not forget the importance of presence of mind and humility in prayer, for this is the ultimate purpose of standing before Allaah in prayer. The more you can develop the attitude of humility and submission in prayer as described to you in the prayer of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), the more benefits you will reap, as indicated by our Lord when He said (interpretation of the meaning):

“Verily, As‑Salaat (the prayer) prevents from Al‑Fahshaa’ (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse) and Al‑Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed)”

[al-‘Ankaboot 29:45]