Hadith #5796

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

Prayer is the better of the two means of [attaining] nearness [to Allah].

This Hadith emphasizes the importance and superiority of prayer as a means of drawing closer to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ).

The word (Salah) "صَلاة" in Arabic refers to the ritual prayer performed by Muslims. It is a comprehensive act of worship that includes physical movements, recitation of verses from the Quran, and supplication. Salah is a fundamental pillar of Islam and holds great significance in the life of a Muslim.

The word (afdalu) "أفْضَلُ" means "better" or "superior." It signifies that prayer is not only a means of nearness to Allah, but it is the best means compared to other acts of worship. This highlights the unique position of Salah in the eyes of Allah.

The word (al-qurbatayn) "القُرْبَتَيْنِ" means

the two means of nearness.

It refers to the two primary ways through which a person can draw closer to Allah. While the specific second means is not mentioned in this Hadith, scholars have interpreted it to include various acts of worship such as fasting, charity, recitation of the Quran, and seeking knowledge.

To understand the connotation of this Hadith, we can turn to the Quran for further guidance. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 83:

And [recall] when We took the covenant from the Children of Israel, [enjoining upon them], 'Do not worship except Allah; and to parents do good and to relatives, orphans, and the needy. And speak to people good [words] and establish prayer and give zakah.' Then you turned away, except a few of you, and you were refusing.

This verse highlights the importance of prayer as one of the obligations placed upon the Children of Israel. It is mentioned alongside other acts of worship, emphasizing its significance in attaining nearness to Allah. Prayer is not only a means of personal connection with Allah, but it also serves as a reminder of our responsibilities towards others.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Ma'arij, verse 19-21, Allah says:

Indeed, mankind was created anxious, when evil touches him, impatient, and when good touches him, withholding [of it], except the observers of prayer - those who are constant in their prayer.

These verses emphasize the transformative power of prayer. It is through regular and sincere prayer that one can develop patience, gratitude, and a sense of contentment. Prayer acts as a shield against anxiety and helps in maintaining a balanced approach towards both trials and blessings.

Reflecting on the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and the Quranic verses, we understand that prayer is not merely a physical act, but a spiritual journey towards nearness to Allah. It is a means of purifying the soul, seeking forgiveness, and seeking guidance from the Almighty. Through prayer, we establish a direct connection with our Creator, seeking His pleasure and guidance in all aspects of our lives.

Prayer is not limited to a set of rituals performed at specific times; it is a comprehensive act of worship that encompasses our entire existence. It is a means of seeking closeness to Allah, seeking His mercy and forgiveness, and seeking guidance in all matters. By prioritizing prayer and performing it with sincerity and devotion, we can attain the ultimate goal of nearness to Allah and find peace and tranquility in our lives.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to establish prayers with sincerity and devotion, and may He accept our prayers and draw us closer to Him. Ameen.