ʿIshāʾ (عشاء) - The Night Prayer
Definition
ʿIshāʾ (عشاء) refers to the final prayer of the five daily obligatory prayers (Salah) in Islam. Commemorated after the darkness of night has set in, it symbolizes the concluding communication with God at the end of the day.
Etymology
The word ʿIshāʾ comes from the Arabic root ع ش ا (ʿa-sh-a), which connotes evening or night. It is directly translated as “night” in the context of the daily prayers.
- Arabic: عشاء
- Turkish: Yatsı Namazı
Practice
ʿIshāʾ is recited after twilight when the night is well set in. Its timing starts after the evening prayer (Maghrib) and lasts until dawn, although it is recommended to offer this prayer before midnight. The specific rak’ahs (units of prayer) performed include:
- Four Rak’ah Sunnah Mu’akkadah: A highly emphasized non-obligatory prayer.
- Four Rak’ah Fard (obligatory): The essential part that every Muslim should perform.
- Two Rak’ah Sunnah Mu’akkadah following the obligatory prayer.
- Three Rak’ah Witr: Considered an important Sunnah or a mustahabb (recommended) action, often performed after the obligatory prayer.
Significance
Performing the ʿIshāʾ prayer holds multiple significances:
- Spiritual Reflection: Provides an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on their faith and deeds of the day.
- Community Bond: Often performed in congregation at mosques, fostering community interaction and unity.
- Completion of Daily Rituals: Marks the end of daily worship, leading to a peaceful closure and preparation for rest.
Books for Further Studies
To gain more in-depth understanding, the following books are recommended:
- “Fortress of the Muslim” by Sa’id bin Wahf Al-Qahtani: A compilation of scholar-authenticated prayers.
- “Prayer in Islamic Tradition” by Marion Holmes Katz: Explores the historical and contemporary significance of Islamic prayers.
- “Fiqh al-Sunnah” by Sayyid Sabiq: Offers detailed jurisprudential discussions on the practice and rituals of Salah.
Key Takeaways
- ʿIshāʾ is the night prayer and the fifth obligatory Salah of the day.
- It consists of multiple parts including Fard and Sunnah prayers.
- Reflects closure of daily reflections in Islamic faith and promotes community unity when performed in congregation.
- It has significant spiritual, social, and ritualistic importance for Muslims.
Conclusion
ʿIshāʾ is an integral part of daily Islamic worship, emblematic of a Muslim’s commitment to their faith until the final moments of the day. Understanding and practicing this prayer can provide profound spiritual benefits and strengthen the communal bonds among Muslims.
