The Importance and Virtues of Beginning Prayers with Salat (Blessings upon the Prophet)
Could our prayers be hindered if we do not offer salutations upon our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him)? In this article, we explore the virtue and importance of beginning prayers with salat.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BEGIN PRAYERS WITH SALAT?
Our Prophet, Rasûlullah –sallâllâhu aleyhi ve sellem– praised a companion who began his prayer with praise (hamd) and then offered salat upon the Prophet. He said:
Hadith on Beginning with Salat
“–O worshiper! Make supplication, and if you begin your supplication with praise and salutations, your supplication will be accepted.” (Tirmidhi, Deavât, 64/3476)
The Virtues of Beginning with Salat
A hadith narrated by Umar bin Khattab –radıyallâhu anh– also sheds light on this topic:
“Your supplication remains suspended between the heavens and the earth. It will not reach Allah until you offer salutations upon the Prophet.” (Tirmidhi, Vitir, 21/486)
These hadiths clearly demonstrate how important it is to begin our prayers with salat. Salat attracts Allah’s mercy and facilitates the acceptance of our prayers.