Salat and the Qur'an
Question
Please answer the questions related to salat in the Quran. Thank you. And establish regular prayers at the two ends of the day and at the approaches of the night: For those things, that are good remove those that are evil: Be that the word of remembrance to those who remember (their Lord): (11:114) Is the above translation a correct translation? What does it mean by referring "two ends of the day". When ye have performed the act of worship, remember Allah, standing, sitting and reclining. And when ye are in safety, observe proper worship. Worship at fixed times hath been enjoined on the believers. (4:103) Is the above the correct translation. Does it indicate both nafl and obligatory prayers? Please explain. Therefore (O Muhammad) bear with what they say, and hymn the praise of thy Lord before the rising and before the setting of the sun; (50:39). And in the night-time hymn His praise, and after the (prescribed) prostrations. (50:40) Is the above translation a correct translation? Bear then patiently what they say, and glorify your Lord by the praising of Him before the rising of the sun and before its setting, and during hours of the night do also glorify (Him) and during parts of the day, that you may be well pleased. (20:130) Is the above translation a correct translation? Is it referring to nafl prayer or fixed prayer? Guard strictly your (habit of) prayers, especially the Middle Prayer; and stand before Allah in a devout (frame of mind). (2:238) Is the above translation a correct translation? Is the middle prayer referring to Asr or Zuhr prayer?
Answer
Hud 11:14 is an appropriate translation. The two ends of the day refer to Fajr (i.e. dawn) and Maghrib (i.e. sunset) prayers. Al Nisaa 4:103 is an appropriate translation. The nature of the verse does not relate to any particular prayer but rather the very approaching towards God. Here the Almighty informs us that so long as we put our best effort to fulfill our responsibilities that He would accept them regardless of the conditions of worship. A point in fact is that the emphasis is the relationship between God and man. It is of paramount importance that one maintains a connection with the Almighty even in difficult situations. The other aspect of this is God's benevolence towards us. The verse is actually in direct continuation of the mandates given in the previous verses 101 and 102. Two allowances have been mentioned: a. While in journey, when a person is not in a state of ease; and b. Where on the battlefield, the Prophet was leading the prayers and the whole army could not offer prayers together. Thus, 103 says, "And when ye are in safety, observe proper worship." Qaf 50:39-40 is an appropriate translation. Ta'Ha 20:130 is an appropriate translation. It relates to both mandatory prayers and nawafil (i.e. supererogatory) prayers. A more accurate translation for Al Baqarah 2:238 is: (These are the limits set by God. To abide by these limits) Guard your prayers (under all circumstances) and especially the middle prayer (when you are most involved in your worldly activities) and (in your prayers, turning away from all your worldly involvements,) stand before God in utmost obedience. If you analyze the above translation you will appreciate that the prayer alluded to here is not one that is concerned with the timing of prayer but rather the preoccupation with world affairs. God wants us to remember Him even in our most involved moments. He wants us to separate ourselves from our busiest moments to give ourselves a chance to unite with Him unobstructed by the noises of life. It is important to remember that one of the most difficult things to do is to take our attention away from something when we are into it. This, of course, overlaps any moment we approach the Lord Almighty in prayer. I hope I have clarified the issue. God knows best. Ronnie Hassan February 12, 2005 Answer published by Ronnie Hassan
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