Introduction
Thursday is a significant day in Islam, as it holds special religious value and is associated with the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Sunnah, the collection of the Prophet’s teachings and practices, provides guidance on the recommended actions and prayers for this day.
Sunnah for Thursday Prayer
According to the Sunnah, the recommended prayers for Thursday include:
- Sunnah Mu’akkadah: Two Raka’at before Thuhr (Dhuhr) prayer
- Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah: Four Raka’at before Thuhr prayer
- Sunnah Rawatib: Two Raka’at after Thuhr prayer
Prayer Times
It is recommended to perform the Sunnah prayers at the following times:
- Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 10-15 minutes before Thuhr
- Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah: 20-25 minutes before Thuhr
- Sunnah Rawatib: Immediately after Thuhr
Supplication (Dua) after Thuhr Prayer
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to recite the following supplication after performing Thuhr prayer on Thursday:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ فِي هَذَا الْيَوْمِ خَيْرَهُ وَخَيْرَ مَا فِيهِ، وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّهِ وَشَرِّ مَا فِيهِ
Translation: O Allah, I ask You for the good of this day and the good that it holds, and I seek Your refuge from the evil of this day and the evil that it holds.
Benefits of Thursday Prayer
Performing the Sunnah prayers on Thursday is believed to bring numerous benefits, including:
- Remission of Sins: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever prays four Raka’at on Thursday, Allah will forgive his sins.” (Tirmidhi)
- Protection from Calamities: “Whoever prays eight Raka’at on Thursday, Allah will protect him from calamities until the next Thursday.” (Bayhaqi)
- Abundant Blessings: “Whoever prays twelve Raka’at on Thursday, Allah will grant him the reward of a thousand martyrs.” (Ibn Majah)
- Intercession of the Prophet: It is believed that those who observe the Sunnah prayers on Thursday will be among those for whom the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) will intercede on the Day of Judgment.
Tips for Observing Thursday Prayer
- Make an intention to perform the Sunnah prayers before starting.
- Pray in a clean and quiet place.
- Focus on your prayer and recite the dua after Thuhr sincerely.
- Be consistent in performing the Sunnah prayers on Thursday.
- Seek knowledge about the virtues and benefits of this prayer.
Conclusion
The Sunnah of Thursday prayer is an important part of Islamic practice that offers numerous spiritual and temporal benefits. By observing these prayers, Muslims can connect with their faith, seek Allah’s forgiveness and protection, and earn the rewards promised by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). May Allah accept our prayers and grant us His blessings.