(Series on Nafl Salaahs #3 – Ishraaq Salaah)

Among the various nafl salaah, through which a believer is able to acquire tremendous rewards from Allah Ta‘ala, is the Ishraaq Salaah.

The time of ishraaq commences after sunrise (i.e. fifteen to twenty minutes after sunrise) until zawaal. However, it is better to perform Ishraaq Salaah in the first half of the morning. One may perform two or four rakaats for Ishraaq Salaah.

In regard to the immense reward for performing Ishraaq Salaah, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “Whoever performs Fajr Salaah with jamaat (in the masjid), and thereafter remains seated (in his place), engaged in the remembrance of Allah Ta‘ala until the sun rises, and thereafter, he (stands and) performs two rakaats of salaah, he will receive the reward of hajj and ‘umrah.” Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) then said, “Complete! Complete! Complete! (i.e. Rasulullah [sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam] emphasized that one will receive the reward of a complete hajj and a complete ‘umrah for performing two rakaats of Ishraaq Salaah).” (Sunan Tirmizi #586)

There are many people who cannot manage to go for hajj and ‘umrah for various reasons. However, such is the kindness and mercy of Allah Ta‘ala that he has provided us with another method through which we can gain this reward. Thus, if one practices on this blessed hadeeth of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), one will be able to acquire the reward of a complete hajj and a complete ‘umrah every single day!

In another hadeeth, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) mentioned that Allah Ta‘ala says, “O son of Aadam (‘alaihis salaam)! Perform four rakaats of salaah for Me in the beginning of the day, and I will suffice you (i.e. I will fulfill your needs) until the end of the day.” (Sunan Tirmizi #475)

Hence, after performing the Fajr Salaah, we should ensure that we commence our day with the four rakaats of Ishraaq Salaah. Not only will Allah Ta‘ala bestow us with the reward of a complete hajj and a complete ‘umrah – He will also fulfill all our needs for the day.

May Allah Ta‘ala bless us with the ability to perform this salaah punctually, and all other salaah as well, aameen.