Why Pray Like the Prophet (SWAS)?

In Islam, the ritual prayer (as salah) is the differentiator between belief and disblief. In English, the word "prayer" is often used for supplication (dua), i.e. beseeching Him with words in a state of humility and dependance. In Islam, there is a difference between a supplication (dua) and ritual prayer (as salah). In addition, to conversing with God (Allah), the ritual prayer (as salah) in Islam, involves set physical movements and verbal experessions. The Prophet (SWAS) prayed differently based on different times and situations in his mission. 

In his book, "The Salah, The Prophet's Prayer Described", Shaykh Al Albani (RA), describes the variations that the Prophet (SWAS) applied to his prayer according to his sunnah (practice) as described in authentic Prophetic sayings (ahaadith). The Prophet (SWAS) is reported to have said that we should pray as he was seen praying. The way that the Prophet (SWAS) performed the salah is the best way to try to incorporate "khushu", i.e.mindful presence, serenity, and focus in prayer.   

In our hectic lives, we long to have mindful calmess throughout the day in order to cope with all of life's challenges. One of the best ways to do that is to improve the state of our prayers, so that we can depend on and stay conneced with our Lord.

Shaykh Al Albani (RA) was the best muhaddith (scholar of Prophetic sayings) of our times and this book is based on his work on authentic Prophetic sayings related as salah. 

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