In Islam, acts of worship are categorized according to their obligation and reward, and knowing these distinctions is crucial for every Muslim. Among these, Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl are essential concepts that determine how a Muslim should perform prayers, fasting, and other acts of worship.

Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah has prescribed for you the religion as He prescribed it for those before you, that you may become righteous.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:48)

Understanding the difference between Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl helps Muslims prioritize obligations, gain reward, and avoid neglecting key duties.

This article provides a complete guide, covering definitions, examples, Quranic references, Hadith support, and practical guidance.

1. What is Farz in Islam?

Farz refers to an obligatory act of worship commanded by Allah, neglecting which is considered sinful. Performing Farz is mandatory, and omitting it without a valid reason incurs spiritual consequences.

Key Features of Farz

1. Divinely Obligatory: Commanded directly by Allah
2. Non-Negotiable: Must be performed unless excused (e.g., illness)
3. Accountability: Neglecting Farz is sinful
4. Reward: Direct reward from Allah for fulfilling the obligation

Allah says:
“Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.”
(Surah An-Nisa 4:103)

Examples of Farz in Islam

• Salah (Prayer): 5 daily prayers
• Zakat (Charity): Obligatory for eligible Muslims
• Sawm (Fasting) in Ramadan: Required for all adult Muslims
• Hajj (Pilgrimage): Obligatory once if financially and physically able

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The first thing for which a servant will be brought to account on the Day of Judgment is his prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound.”
(Sahih Muslim 804)

Performing Farz correctly ensures spiritual security, reward, and acceptance by Allah.

2. What is Sunnah in Islam?

Sunnah refers to the practices, sayings, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Sunnah is highly recommended but not obligatory, meaning neglecting it is not sinful, but consistently practicing it brings great reward.

Key Features of Sunnah

1. Guided by Prophet ﷺ: Includes acts he regularly performed or encouraged
2. Optional but Rewarding: Doing Sunnah brings extra reward; neglect is not sinful
3. Consistency Matters: Sunnah can be Mu’akkadah (emphasized) or Ghair Mu’akkadah (less emphasized)
4. Helps Achieve Perfection: Completing Farz with Sunnah brings excellence in worship

Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever prays twelve Rakats in a day and night consistently, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise.”
(Sahih Muslim 724)

Types of Sunnah

a) Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Emphasized)

• Frequently performed by Prophet ﷺ
• Strongly recommended, leaving without reason is discouraged
• Examples:
  • 2 Rakats Sunnah before Fajr
  • 2 Rakats Sunnah after Maghrib

b) Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah (Non-Emphasized)

• Performed occasionally by Prophet ﷺ
• Optional, no sin if missed
• Examples:
  • Additional Nafl prayers
  • Voluntary acts beyond the daily Sunnah

Sunnah acts complement Farz, enhancing reward and spiritual closeness.

3. What is Nafl in Islam?

Nafl refers to voluntary or optional acts of worship performed solely for Allah’s pleasure. Nafl is not obligatory, and neglecting it carries no sin, but performing it brings immense reward.

Key Features of Nafl

1. Voluntary: No obligation, purely for extra reward
2. Flexible: Can be performed anytime (except prohibited times for prayer)
3. Enhances Spirituality: Strengthens connection with Allah
4. Brings Reward: Often multiplied in reward compared to obligatory acts

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are the most consistent, even if few.”
(Sahih Bukhari 6465)

Examples of Nafl in Islam

• Tahajjud (Night Prayer): Highly rewarding voluntary prayer
• Duha Prayer: Mid-morning voluntary prayer
• Extra Rakats before or after obligatory Salah
• Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays

Nafl acts are a means to gain closeness to Allah, earn extra reward, and cultivate discipline.

4. Comparison Table: Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl

5. Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl in Salah

Understanding these distinctions is especially important in Namaz (Salah):

a) Fajr Prayer

• Farz: 2 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 2 Rakats before Fard
• Nafl: Additional voluntary prayers after Fajr

b) Dhuhr Prayer

• Farz: 4 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 4 Rakats before + 2 after
• Nafl: Optional Rakats for extra reward

c) Asr Prayer

• Farz: 4 Rakats
• Sunnah: Some scholars recommend 4 before
• Nafl: Optional prayers

d) Maghrib Prayer

• Farz: 3 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 2 Rakats after Fard
• Nafl: Extra prayers

e) Isha Prayer

• Farz: 4 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 2 Rakats after Fard
• Nafl: Witr (highly recommended), additional voluntary prayers

Prophet ﷺ said:
“He who prays the Witr prayer before sleeping, Allah will accept his prayer and bless his night.”
(Sahih Bukhari 986)

6. Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl in Fasting

a) Farz

• Fasting Ramadan is obligatory for all adult Muslims
• Quran says:

“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you, that you may become righteous.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)

b) Sunnah

• Fasting on six days of Shawwal after Ramadan
• Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime.”
(Sahih Muslim 1164)

c) Nafl

• Voluntary fasting on Mondays and Thursdays
• Fasting on Arafah and Ashura
• Highly recommended for extra reward and purification

7. Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl in Zakat and Charity

• Farz: Obligatory Zakat (2.5% of wealth annually)
• Sunnah: Voluntary charity as regularly practiced by Prophet ﷺ
• Nafl: Sadaqah at any time for extra reward

Allah says:
“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which sprouts seven ears, each ear having a hundred grains.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:261)

8. Importance of Prioritizing Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl

1. Farz first: Ensures obligations are fulfilled
2. Sunnah second: Enhances reward and spiritual perfection
3. Nafl last: Extra acts for closeness to Allah

Prophet ﷺ said:
“Pray as you have seen me pray.”
(Sahih Bukhari 631)

• Following Sunnah ensures perfection in performing Farz.

9. Practical Tips for Performing Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl

1. Daily checklist: Track prayers and additional acts
2. Start with Farz: Build consistency
3. Include Sunnah: Regularly perform emphasized Sunnah prayers
4. Add Nafl: Whenever possible, especially for Tahajjud and Duha
5. Understand meanings: Increases mindfulness and khushu

10. Rewards and Spiritual Significance

• Performing Farz ensures accountability and forgiveness
• Performing Sunnah brings closeness to Prophet ﷺ and perfection
• Performing Nafl increases spiritual rank and rewards
• Combined, these acts help a believer excel in obedience, piety, and Allah’s pleasure

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are the most consistent, even if few.”
(Sahih Bukhari 6465)

11. Common FAQs

Q1: Can I skip Sunnah or Nafl?

• Yes, there is no sin, but you miss extra reward

Q2: Are Nafl prayers better than Sunnah?

• Nafl brings additional reward, but Sunnah complements Farz and perfects obligations

Q3: What happens if I miss a Farz?

• Missed Farz must be made up (Qada)

Q4: How to teach children the difference?

• Use simple charts, colors, and repetition for Farz, Sunnah, Nafl

12. Conclusion: Understanding and Applying Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl

Understanding the difference between Farz, Sunnah, and Nafl is crucial for every Muslim to prioritize worship, earn maximum reward, and perfect spiritual practice.

• Farz: Mandatory, sin if neglected
• Sunnah: Highly recommended, strengthens obedience
• Nafl: Voluntary, increases reward and closeness to Allah

Start by performing all Farz obligations, gradually include Sunnah prayers, and add Nafl acts for extra spiritual benefit.

For step-by-step guidance, interactive tutorials, and online lessons, visit 👉 surahyaseen.net for authentic Islamic teachings.

Namaz, also known as Salah, is a pillar of Islam and the foremost act of worship prescribed by Allah. It is a direct connection between a Muslim and Allah, offering spiritual, physical, and psychological benefits.

Allah says:
“Establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:43)

One common question among Muslims, especially beginners, is: “How many Rakats are in each prayer?” Understanding the number of Rakats and their significance ensures correct practice, adherence to Sunnah, and maximum reward.

This article provides a complete guide on Rakats in each prayer, including Sunnah, Wajib, and Nafl Rakats, with step-by-step explanations.

1. What is a Rakat?

A Rakat is a unit of prayer in Salah. Each Rakat includes a sequence of movements and recitations:

1. Qiyam (Standing) – Reciting Surah Al-Fatiha and another Surah or verses
2. Ruku (Bowing) – Saying “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem”
3. I’tidal (Standing after Ruku) – Saying “Sami’ Allahu liman hamidah”
4. Sujood (Prostration) – Saying “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la”
5. Jalsa (Sitting between Sujoods) – Asking Allah for forgiveness
6. Second Sujood

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The first matter that the servant will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, the rest of his deeds will be sound.”
(Sahih Muslim 804)

Each Rakat is a complete unit of worship, and prayers consist of a specific number of Rakats.

2. The Five Daily Prayers and Their Rakats

Islam prescribes five obligatory prayers daily, each with a specific number of Rakats:

a) Fajr (Dawn Prayer)

• Obligatory (Fard): 2 Rakats
• Sunnah (Before Fard): 2 Rakats
• Total: 4 Rakats

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The two Rakats of Sunnah before Fajr are better than the world and what is in it.”
(Sahih Muslim 725)

Timing: From dawn (Fajr) until just before sunrise.

b) Dhuhr (Noon Prayer)

• Obligatory (Fard): 4 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Confirmed Sunnah): 4 Rakats before Fard + 2 after Fard
• Optional Nafl: Additional Rakats may be prayed for extra reward
• Total: 10 Rakats (including Sunnah)

Timing: After the sun passes its zenith until Asr begins.

c) Asr (Afternoon Prayer)

• Obligatory (Fard): 4 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 4 Rakats before Fard (some scholars recommend 2)
• Optional Nafl: Extra voluntary Rakats
• Total: 4–8 Rakats

Timing: Mid-afternoon until just before sunset.

d) Maghrib (Sunset Prayer)

• Obligatory (Fard): 3 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 2 Rakats after Fard
• Optional Nafl: Additional Rakats may be prayed
• Total: 5 Rakats minimum

Timing: Just after sunset until twilight disappears.

e) Isha (Night Prayer)

• Obligatory (Fard): 4 Rakats
• Sunnah Mu’akkadah: 2 Rakats after Fard
• Optional Nafl: 2 or more Rakats (e.g., Witr)
• Total: 6+ Rakats (excluding Witr)

Timing: After twilight ends until Fajr.

3. Sunnah, Wajib, and Nafl Rakats Explained

a) Sunnah Rakats

• Emphasized by Prophet ﷺ
• Not obligatory, but neglecting them regularly is discouraged
• Examples: 2 Rakats before Fajr, 2 Rakats after Maghrib

b) Wajib Rakats

• Considered necessary by some scholars, e.g., Witr prayer
• Omitting may require Qada (making up the prayer)

c) Nafl Rakats

• Voluntary prayer for extra reward and closeness to Allah
• Examples: Duha prayer, Tahajjud

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The most beloved deeds to Allah are the most consistent, even if few.”
(Sahih Bukhari 6465)

4. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform Each Rakat

Step 1: Niyyah (Intention)

• Form the intention in the heart for specific prayer and Rakats
• Do not say aloud, but focus sincerely on Allah

Step 2: Takbir al-Ihram

• Raise hands and say: “Allahu Akbar”
• Marks the start of Salah

Step 3: Recitation in Qiyam

• Place right hand over left on chest
• Recite Surah Al-Fatiha
• Follow with another Surah or few verses

Step 4: Ruku

• Bow at waist, hands on knees
• Say three times: “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem”

Step 5: I’tidal

• Stand up straight
• Say: “Sami’ Allahu liman hamidah”, then “Rabbana wa lakal hamd”

Step 6: Sujood

• Prostrate, forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes on floor
• Say at least three times: “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la”

Step 7: Jalsa (Sitting Between Sujood)

• Sit calmly on legs, hands on thighs
• Ask for forgiveness: “Rabbighfir li”

Step 8: Second Sujood

• Repeat Sujood
• Complete the Rakat

Step 9: Tashahhud (Last Rak’ah)

• Sit and recite Tashahhud
• Send Salawat on Prophet ﷺ

Step 10: Tasleem

• Turn head right: “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah”
• Turn head left: “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah”
• Marks the end of prayer

5. Additional Prayers: Sunnah and Nafl

• Sunnah Rawatib: 12 daily recommended Rakats
• Duha Prayer: 2–8 Rakats after sunrise
• Tahajjud: Night prayer, flexible Rakats
• Witr: 1–3 Rakats after Isha, highly recommended

6. Benefits of Observing Rakats Correctly

• Fulfills obligation and Sunnah
• Strengthens spiritual connection with Allah
• Increases reward and forgiveness
• Promotes discipline, mindfulness, and humility

Allah says:
“Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing.”
(Surah Al-Ankabut 29:45)

7. Common Mistakes Beginners Make

1. Skipping Sunnah Rakats – reduces reward
2. Incorrect Rakat count – learn numbers carefully
3. Rushing through Salah – focus on proper recitation and postures
4. Neglecting Tashahhud and Tasleem – incomplete prayer

Solution: Use charts, apps, or teacher guidance.

8. Recommended Daily Rakat Chart

9. How to Memorize and Remember Rakat Numbers

• Write charts for daily reference
• Use mobile apps or reminders
• Teach children by counting on fingers or using beads
• Repeat daily to build habitual knowledge

10. Learning Rakat Numbers Online

Online courses help with:

• Interactive tutorials for beginners
• Visual guides for each prayer
• Audio recitation for proper timing and sequence
• Personalized correction from teachers

11. Spiritual Rewards of Correct Rakat Practice

• Allah promises guidance, forgiveness, and intercession
• Improves concentration, humility, and gratitude
• Forms a foundation for other acts of worship

Prophet ﷺ said:
“The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is when he is prostrating; so increase supplications in it.”
(Sahih Muslim 482)

12. Frequently Asked Questions About Rakats

Q1: Can a Rakat be missed?

• Missed Fard Rakats should be made up (Qada)

Q2: What if I forget the number of Rakats?

• Count carefully, continue, and complete the prayer as best as possible

Q3: Are all Rakats equal in reward?

• Each Rakat has spiritual reward, but Sunnah and Nafl Rakats bring extra merit

Q4: How to teach children Rakats?

• Start with Fard, gradually add Sunnah Rakats, use repetition and visual aids

13. Conclusion: Importance of Knowing Rakats

Knowing how many Rakats in each prayer is essential for:

• Performing Salah accurately and according to Sunnah
• Maximizing spiritual reward
• Avoiding mistakes and incomplete prayers
• Establishing discipline and mindfulness

Start practicing today, follow this guide step by step, and gradually include Sunnah and Nafl Rakats for full spiritual benefit.

In Islamic teachings, Hisar (حصار) refers to a spiritual shield or protection that Allah grants to His servants through the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, prescribed supplications, and remembrance of Allah (dhikr). The word Hisar literally means “fortress” or “protective boundary.” In spiritual terms, Hisar means surrounding oneself, one’s home, children, or property with divine protection so that no harm from jinn, shayateen (evil forces), or unseen dangers can affect them.

This practice has been established in the Qur’an and Sunnah, and Muslims throughout history have relied on these protective verses and du’as to safeguard themselves from the evil eye, black magic, and harm from jinn.

Why is Hisar Necessary?

Islam teaches us that unseen forces, including jinn and shayateen, exist in this world. Sometimes, humans may feel afflicted by these forces through fear, whispers, or disturbances in their homes and lives. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“The Shaytaan flows through the son of Adam like blood.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

This Hadith indicates the closeness of Shaytaan’s influence on human beings. Therefore, protection from Allah is essential. Hisar is not superstition; it is based on the powerful words of Allah revealed in the Qur’an and the supplications taught by the Prophet ﷺ.

Methods of Performing Hisar

There are multiple ways to perform Hisar, but the most authentic ones are through Qur’anic verses and prophetic supplications. Below are some well-known methods:

1. Reciting Ayat al-Kursi (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:255)

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever recites Ayat al-Kursi at night, Allah will appoint a guard for him and no shaytaan will come near him until morning.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

To perform Hisar, recite Ayat al-Kursi 11 times in the morning with full concentration, and again before sleeping.

2. Daily Morning and Evening Supplications

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ taught specific du’as for protection. For example, reciting the following du’a three times in the morning and evening:

“In the name of Allah, with Whose Name nothing on earth or in the heavens can cause harm, and He is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.”
(Sunan Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)

This serves as a protective shield (Hisar) for the entire day.

3. Reciting Surah Yaseen for Protection

Surah Yaseen is known as the “heart of the Qur’an” and has immense blessings. Reciting it daily, especially in the morning and evening, is a means of protection and barakah. Scholars mention that reciting Surah Yaseen over children or in the home creates a spiritual Hisar that prevents evil disturbances.

4. Dam (Blowing After Recitation)

Another authentic practice is to recite Qur’anic verses or supplications and then blow over oneself, children, or the house. The Prophet ﷺ used to recite Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Naas every night before sleeping, blow into his hands, and then wipe over his body for protection.
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

Similarly, for Hisar, one can recite the above-mentioned verses and blow on the right index finger, then mark an imaginary protective circle around themselves, their children, or their home. By Allah’s permission, jinn and shayateen cannot break this Hisar.

Protecting Children Through Hisar

Small children who cannot recite Qur’an themselves can also be protected through Hisar. Parents should recite Surah Yaseen, Ayat al-Kursi, or the Mu’awwidhat (last two Surahs: Al-Falaq and An-Naas), then blow over the children.

The Prophet ﷺ himself used to recite these chapters over his grandsons Hasan and Husayn رضي الله عنهما and say:

“I seek protection for you in the perfect words of Allah from every devil, harmful creature, and evil eye.”
(Sunan Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)

This Sunnah highlights the importance of Hisar for children.

Hisar for Homes

If someone feels strange disturbances, fear, or the presence of jinn in their house, performing Hisar is highly recommended. The steps include:

• Playing Qur’an recitation (especially Surah Al-Baqarah) in the home.
• Reciting Ayat al-Kursi and blowing around the rooms.
• Reciting Surah Yaseen morning and evening.
• Marking Hisar with one’s finger after recitation as a symbolic boundary.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Do not turn your houses into graves. Shaytaan runs away from a house in which Surah Al-Baqarah is recited.”
(Sahih Muslim)

Continuous Hisar Through Daily Worship

It is not enough to perform Hisar only when one feels fear. Rather, daily recitation of Qur’an, morning and evening adhkar, and maintaining salah are ongoing means of Hisar. The Qur’an is filled with wisdom and divine blessings, and whoever keeps its verses in daily practice will always be surrounded by Allah’s mercy.

Conclusion

Hisar in Islam is the act of protecting oneself, children, and home through Qur’an recitation, prophetic supplications, and reliance upon Allah. It is not a ritual of superstition but a practice rooted in the Qur’an and authentic Hadith.

By reciting Ayat al-Kursi, Surah Yaseen, Surah Al-Falaq, Surah An-Naas, and morning/evening du’as, a Muslim builds a strong spiritual fortress against jinn, shayateen, and unseen harms. Parents should especially practice Hisar for their children, while households should make Qur’an recitation a daily habit.

Ultimately, true protection comes only from Allah. Hisar is a way of seeking His divine help and safeguarding our lives, homes, and loved ones.

“And We send down in the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy for the believers.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:82)