ʿAsr (عصر)
Definition and Significance
ʿAsr (عصر) - ʿAsr is an Arabic term that fundamentally refers to “time” or “era.” However, in the context of Islamic practice, it denotes the afternoon prayer, which is the third of the five mandatory daily prayers (Salat) performed by Muslims. The ʿAsr prayer holds high significance as it represents the mid-point of the day and serves as a reminder to remain vigilant of one’s duties and spiritual goals.
Qur’anic Significance
The term ʿAsr is also the title of the 103rd chapter (Surah) of the Qur’an. Surah Al-ʿAsr highlights the significance of time and admonishes the faithful regarding the essentially fleeting nature of human life. The Surah is concise but deeply profound, emphasizing the importance of faith, righteous deeds, mutual exhortation to truth, and patience.
Timing and Practice
The ʿAsr prayer is performed in the afternoon. Its exact timing varies depending on the geographical location and the time of year. According to Islamic jurisprudence, the time for ʿAsr begins once the shadow of an object is the same length as the object itself, following the completion of the Dhuhr (noon) prayer, and extends until the onset of sunset.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: عصر (ʿAsr) - The root of this word connects to various meanings around the concept of time and eras.
- Turkish: İkindi Namazı - This term is used to refer specifically to the afternoon prayer in Turkish.
Books for Further Studies
- “A Thematic Commentary on the Qur’an” by Shaykh Muhammad Al-Ghazali
- “The Book of Prayer: Salaat (Kitab As-Salat)” by Maulana Muhammad Ali
- “The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary” edited by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Takeaways
- ʿAsr Prayer: One of the five obligatory daily prayers in Islam, performed in the afternoon.
- Qur’anic Chapter: The 103rd Surah of the Qur’an is titled Surah Al-ʿAsr, emphasizing the fleeting nature of time and encouraging righteous deeds and patience.
- Etymology: The word ʿAsr derives from Arabic, meaning “time” or “era,” and holds different contextual meanings.
Conclusion
The concept of ʿAsr, encompassing both a pivotal obligatory prayer and a Qur’anic Surah, underlines critical themes of time, duty, and moral perseverance in Islam. Understanding and observing ʿAsr helps Muslims stay constantly aware of their spiritual responsibilities within the framework of time’s inevitability.
