historical essay

SALAH History has it recorded that Salah began with Prophet Muhammad performing his first fard Salah (obligatory prayer) in the cave of Hira in 610 in the night when the first wahy (revelation) was revealed (U.N, U.D). Salah, a common practice among Islam especially Muslims, is known to be the means of worshipping Allah through certain known and prescribed sayings and actions starting with Takbeer (saying Allaahu AkbarAllaah is the Greater), and ending with Tasleem (saying: as-salaamu ‘alaykum wa Rahmatul-lahi wabarakaatuh may Allaah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you) (Saleh As-Saleh, 2006). According to thesaurus dictionary, it means the second pillar of Islam is prayer; a prescribed liturgy performed five times a day (preferably in a mosque) and oriented toward Mecca. It can be said to be a rite, common in most Africans and Arabians countries. In summary, it is an Islamic obligatory prayer. Taking a closer look at this memorable historical event, the history, method and benefits of Salah are interesting topics that can help give us a better analysis. In regards to the history of Salah, as said earlier, Salah began with Prophet Muhammad; he was in the upper part of Makkah when Gabriel appeared in front of him with his most beautiful face and his best smell and said the following, “O Muhammad! Allah has sent His Salam to you and has ordered me to convey that He appointed you as “His Messenger” for the jinns and people, so you will invite them to the word “La ilahe illallah”.” Then, he hit his foot on the floor and there, water started to gush out. Gabriel took his wudu with that water, so that Prophet Muhammad learned from him how to take wudu in order to perform Salah. Then, he told Prophet Muhammad to take wudu as he did. Thereafter, Gabriel performed Salah that had two rakats and four sujuds (prostration). Afterwards, the Messenger of Allah took Hadrat Khadijah (ra) there, taught her to take wudu and performed two rakats