Offering prayers five times a day holds high importance in Islam and is part of the religion’s foundation, along with the shahadah (testimony of faith), which is belief in the one and only God and that Muhammad is His messenger; fasting during the month of Ramadan; giving charity, and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca if financially and physically able. As such, Muslims should make the five ritual prayers without negligence or unnecessary delays. Asr, the third of the five daily prayers, holds special significance. Here we will discuss the importance of the so-called “middle prayer” and how it spiritually affects Muslims all over the world.
What Is the Accurate Timing of Asr?
Muslims from different schools of thought have different timings for Asr. The Hanafis calculate its timing based on the shadow of an object. They contend Asr starts when the shadow of an object is twice its length. Other schools state Asr should be observed when the shadow is equal to the length of the object.
To worship with consistency, it’s important to understand Asr’s actual timings. For Muslims living in the United States, resources like the daily “prayer times in Austin” at MuslimandQuran.com ensure making the prayer on time. In Surah Al-Baqarah, the second chapter of the Quran, Allah mentions the importance of timely prayers, saying, “Maintain with care the [obligatory] prayers and [in particular] the middle [Asr] prayer and stand before Allah, devoutly obedient” (Quran 2:238).
The Importance of Asr Prayers
Various instances in the Quran and Sunnah mention the importance of Asr prayers, including the following:
1. Testing Faith and Commitment
Asr falls in the middle of the day, which is the busiest time for many, so offering this salah at its appointed interval of time is a test of commitment and devotion. Fajr and Isha prayers are usually performed outside of working hours, and Duhr often falls during lunch time. However, Asr demands interruption of your daily work activities, and, as such, making sure to perform it on time demonstrates commitment to your spiritual responsibilities to Allah.
2. Reminder of Life Transition
Narrated by Abu Bakr bin Abi Musa: “My father said, Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, ‘Whoever prays the two cool prayers [Asr and Fajr] will go to Paradise’ ” (Sahih al-Bukhari 574).
This hadith is a clear indication of Asr’s importance. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called Asr the “cool prayer,” which refers to the transitional time of day, such as the late afternoon and/or evening.”
3. Protects from Negligence
If you miss Asr prayers, you are committing a great mistake. Narrated by Ibn Umar:
“Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, ‘Whoever misses the Asr prayer [intentionally] then it is as if he lost his family and property.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari 552).
The hadith clearly states how detrimental it is to intentionally skip the time for Asr, and it serves as a reminder for all Muslims to be vigilant against this. If you’re having trouble, remember the rewards and blessings you’ll receive when you stop and pray when the time is called.
Ways to Prioritize Asr Prayers
1. Setting Alarms
Utilizing modern technology, such as Islamic apps, can help you set reminders based on your location. These alarms can even ring in the form of Adhan so that you can listen to the call of prayer and reinforce a strong connection with Islam.
2. Planning According to Salah Timings
You must add salah breaks into your daily routine. Such a habit allows you to punctually offer prayers. It also will help you plan your day more efficiently while prioritizing prayer.
3. Praying in Congregation
There is ample reward for praying in congregation. You can attend a mosque or Islamic center to offer your Asr prayers with other Muslims around you. This practice also helps to strengthen your relationship with the Muslim community.
4. Participate in Islamic Activities Around Asr
You can use the time before or after Asr for other Islamic activities, including reciting the Quran or making supplication. Developing such practice deepens your connection with Allah.
Are There Rewards in the Afterlife for Praying Asr on Time?
The rewards any Muslim receives for performing Asr on time are not just limited to this world. Allah has promised sufficient blessings in the afterlife too. Narrated by Abu Huraira:
“Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, ‘Angels come to you in succession by night and day and all of them get together at the time of the Fajr and Asr prayers. Those who have passed the night with you [or stayed with you] ascend [to Heaven] and Allah asks them, though He knows everything about you well, ‘In what state did you leave my slaves?’ The angels reply: ‘When we left them, they were praying and when we reached them, they were praying.’” (Sahih al-Bukhari 555).
This shows Allah has given a special status to Asr because the angels themselves are witnessing it. Insha’Allah, consistently offering Asr prayers will guarantee success in the hereafter.
The Takeaway
Asr prayer holds a special importance in Muslims’ lives. It is synonymous with a bridge between devotion to worldly matters and spirituality. Offering Asr prayers on time is a display of faith and discipline, of devotion to the Creator.
No matter your life’s circumstances, you must make a habit of offering all five of your prayers on time. This positive habit — the ability to prioritize, commit to and execute a plan of action — will help you to not only reach your potential in this dunya but, insha’Allah, will benefit you in the hereafter, as well.
