Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib (صلاة الرغائب)
Etymology and Translation
- Etymology: The term ‘Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib’ is derived from Arabic roots: “Ṣalāh” (صلاة) meaning “prayer” and “Raghāʾib” (رغائب) meaning “desires” or “things desired.” Thus, Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib translates to “the prayer for things desired.”
- Arabic: صلاة الرغائب
- Turkish: Ragâib Namazı
Definition
Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib refers to a special prayer traditionally performed by some Muslims in the first week of the Islamic month of Rajab. This prayer consists of two rakʿahs (units of Islamic prayer) and is recited by individuals who seek to fulfill specific worldly desires or needs.
Historical Context
Historically, the Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib has been a subject of significant debate among scholars. Although it has been practiced in some Islamic communities, many orthodox scholars hold the view that it is not part of the Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet Muhammad) and consider it an innovation (bid’ah) in religious practices.
The prayer is cited in various texts, including “Raddu ’l-Muḥtār,” where its orthodoxy and authenticity are questioned.
Theological and Legal Perspectives
According to various classical Islamic scholars and jurists, the Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib is generally considered:
- Forbidden (Haram): Many orthodox scholars, referencing sources such as “Raddu ’l-Muḥtār” (vol. i. p. 717), assert that this practice is not endorsed by Islamic jurisprudence and should be avoided.
- Bid’ah (Innovation): This prayer is often labeled as an innovation that lacks grounding in the authentic traditions of the Prophet Muhammad. Innovations in religious practices are generally discouraged in Islam because they are perceived as altering the divinely revealed form of worship.
Observance
Despite its contested nature, some individuals continue to perform Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib in the first week of Rajab, indicating its cultural and spiritual significance to those who observe it.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Innovation in Islam: Traditions and Contributions” by Mehran Kamrava
- “Islamic Theology and Philosophy: Studies in Honor of George F. Hourani” by Michael E. Marmura
- “The Book of Supplications (Kitab Ad-Du’a)” by Al-Bukhari and Muslim (translations and commentaries)
- “The Concept of Bid’ah in Islam: A Seminar Workbook” by M. Umaruddin
Key Takeaways
- Debated Practice: Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib is a prayer for fulfilling desires, but its validity and acceptance are intensely debated among scholars.
- Islamic Months: It is particularly associated with the month of Rajab, emphasizing the importance of certain times in the Islamic calendar for specific acts of worship.
- Jurisprudence: Most orthodox Islamic jurists consider it an innovation and advise against its practice.
Conclusion
While Ṣalātu ʾr-Raghāʾib holds cultural and spiritual importance for some, orthodox Islamic scholarship predominantly views it as a non-Sunnah practice. As with many religious practices, understanding the historical and theological framework can lead to more informed personal choices in worship and devotion.
