Qira’ah: Reciting Qur’an

“So recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an.”  (Muzzammil, 73/20) Pursuant to this verse, it is fardh to recite at least three short verses or an equivalent long verse while in qiyam (standing posture) in salah, and this is called "qira'ah". The servant begins his private communication with his Lord in salah with the Subhanaka prayer, which contains words that express the belief of oneness by keeping Allah (swt) away from the deficient features. (Sunan Abu Dawud, Salah, 119-120) After reciting the audhu basmala, he recites Surah al-Fatihah. Because the Prophet Muhammad (saw) said, “Whoever does not recite Al-Fatihah in his prayer, his prayer is invalid.” (Sahih Bukhari, Adhan, 95).

He proceeds to praise Allah (swt) by reciting the surah which is shared between Allah and his servant. In the first part of the surah, it mentions that all praise belongs to the Lord of the Worlds, and that He is the Most Gracious (Rahman), the Most Merciful (Rahim) and the Owner of the Day of Judgement. In the second part, the servant makes his wishes to his Lord. Expressing that he worships Allah (swt) alone and only asks help from Him. He prays that his Lord to guide him to the right path and to the path of those who have attained beautiful blessings. (Sahih Muslim, Salah, 38)