Preparation for Prayer: Mindfulness and Readiness
The foundation of achieving humility in prayer lies in the preparation and mental readiness to stand before Allah Almighty. Anticipating this sacred encounter should fill the believer with eagerness. For instance, if one were to meet a prominent individual, such as a governor or a minister, they would likely spend days meticulously preparing. Thus, how much more should one prepare for an audience with the King of Kings?
Preparation for prayer involves performing ablution, arriving early at the mosque (for men), making an effort to pray at the earliest designated time, and engaging in the remembrance of Allah and reading from the Holy Quran. These actions facilitate the believer’s immersion into a spiritual atmosphere, allowing them to approach prayer with an attentive heart.
Avoiding Distractions and Excessive Movements
In prayer, looking around and unnecessary movements are not acceptable. Such behaviors can distract the individual and prevent them from focusing. It is authentically reported from Umm Al-Mu’minin Aisha – may Allah be pleased with her – that she asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about a person’s distraction during prayer. He said: “It is a form of theft that the devil steals from the prayer of one of you.” To combat mental distractions during prayer, the worshipper should strive to overcome their thoughts, seek refuge in Allah from the accursed devil, and lightly spit to their left side.
Contemplating the Verses During Prayer
Another aid to achieving humility in prayer is contemplating the verses of the Holy Quran recited during the prayer. It is important for the believer to understand and comprehend what they are saying. Allah Almighty describes the believers in the Quran: “And those who, when reminded of the signs of their Lord, do not fall upon them deaf and blind.”
This means that they engage with these verses rather than passively recite them. If a verse of glorification is recited, they should glorify Allah; upon hearing a verse that calls for refuge, they should seek protection with Allah; and upon a verse requiring prostration, they should perform the prostration accordingly.
Reflecting on Death and the Hereafter
A believer should contemplate that this prayer could potentially be their last, fueling their efforts to pray with utmost devotion and presence of heart, while ensuring their limbs are humbled. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised his companions: “When you stand for prayer, perform it as if it were your farewell prayer.”
Seeking Help and Supplicating to Allah
One effective way to attain humility in prayer is to actively seek assistance from Allah Almighty. The worshipper should beseech Allah fervently to bless them with humility during prayer. Indeed, acts of devotion are always contingent on Allah’s guidance and support. Allah Almighty responds to such supplications as they represent a request to draw closer to Him, along with a sincere desire for the immense rewards and blessings that come with worship.