Salah (Prayer) – Who Must Pray & When?
Introduction & Foundations: Section 1.3
Who is Obliged to Pray?
Salah is obligatory upon every Muslim who has reached puberty and is of sound mind. This includes both males and females. Children are encouraged to start learning and practicing salah before puberty to build the habit and understanding early.
Conditions for Obligation
The prayer obligation begins when a person reaches the age of maturity, which is typically marked by physical signs such as puberty. Additionally, the person must be free from any conditions that excuse prayer, such as unconsciousness or severe illness.
Importance of Starting Early
Islam encourages teaching children salah from a young age to instill discipline and awareness of their duties. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Command your children to pray when they are seven years old, and discipline them for it at ten.” (Sahih)
General Obligation
Allah commands believers in the Qur’an to fulfill their religious duties, including prayer:
«Moreover, establish prayer, pay alms-tax, and obey the Messenger, so you may be shown mercy.» (Qur’an 24:56)
Prayer Times
Salah must be performed within its specified time window. Each of the five daily prayers has a defined time period that begins and ends at particular moments in the day, based on the position of the sun.