Introduction to Prayer
01The most important things to know before prayer
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Your complete Islamic prayer guide
How to Pray Salah — A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Master every rak'ah of every obligatory prayer with Arabic text, audio recitations, transliteration and translation — in 10+ languages.
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The five daily prayers
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Available in 10 languages • Hanafi schoolHow to pray Salah — the basics
Your complete Islamic prayer companion in 10+ languages
Salah (also called namaz) is the second pillar of Islam and the most direct daily connection between a Muslim and Allah. This guide walks you through every step — from performing ablution (wudu) to the final salam — in clear, beginner-friendly language. Whether you are learning for the first time, a revert exploring Islam, or simply looking for a trusted step-by-step reference, mNamaz gives you audio recitations, transliterations, translations, and visuals for every rakat of every obligatory prayer.
The five daily prayers — Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha — structure a Muslim's day around remembrance of Allah. Each prayer consists of a fixed number of rakats (cycles) with specific movements and recitations. Below you will find complete tutorials for each one, as well as guides for wudu, dhikr after prayer, Eid (Bajram) prayer, funeral (Janazah) prayer, and Istikhara.
What are the five daily prayers?
Muslims pray five obligatory (fard) prayers every day at set times linked to the position of the sun:
- Fajr — before sunrise (2 rakats fard)
- Dhuhr — after midday (4 rakats fard)
- Asr — afternoon (4 rakats fard)
- Maghrib — just after sunset (3 rakats fard)
- Isha — night (4 rakats fard)
How do I perform wudu (ablution)?
Wudu is a ritual purification required before every prayer. It consists of washing the hands, rinsing the mouth and nose, washing the face and arms up to the elbows, wiping the head, and washing the feet — each step performed with intention and in the correct order. Our wudu guide walks you through every action with images and audio.
How do I pray step by step?
A single rakat follows a fixed sequence: takbir (Allahu Akbar), recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and another short surah, ruku (bowing), two sujood (prostrations), and finally the tashahhud and salam in the last rakat. The number of rakats depends on the prayer. mNamaz shows you each posture with the Arabic text, its transliteration, translation, and an audio recitation for every step.
Do I have to pray in Arabic?
The obligatory recitations inside the prayer are performed in Arabic, as they are direct verses of the Qur'an. If you are still learning, start with the transliteration alongside the translation — within a few weeks of consistent practice, most beginners can recite Al-Fatihah comfortably. Supplications (du'a) outside the fixed recitations may be made in any language.
What is dhikr after prayer?
After completing the fard prayer, the Prophet ﷺ taught a short sequence of remembrance: SubhanAllah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times, Allahu Akbar 33 or 34 times, plus Ayat al-Kursi and specific supplications. Our dhikr section lists each one with audio so you can memorise and recite along.
Frequently asked questions
How many times a day do Muslims pray?
Muslims pray five obligatory (fard) prayers every day: Fajr (before sunrise), Dhuhr (after midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (just after sunset), and Isha (night).
How many rakats are in each prayer?
Fajr has 2 fard rakats, Dhuhr 4, Asr 4, Maghrib 3, and Isha 4. Sunnah and nafl rakats are additional voluntary prayers.
Can I learn to pray in English?
You can learn the meaning and the steps in English, but the obligatory recitations inside the prayer (like Surah Al-Fatihah) must be recited in Arabic. mNamaz provides Arabic, transliteration, and English translation side by side so beginners can follow along and learn.
Do I need wudu before every prayer?
Yes, wudu (ablution) is required before each prayer. It remains valid until invalidated (for example by going to the bathroom, deep sleep, or emission of gas), in which case it must be renewed before praying.
What do I say when I start the prayer?
You begin by raising your hands and saying 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest), known as the takbiratul-ihram. This marks the start of the prayer.
Which direction do I face when praying?
Muslims face the Qibla — the direction of the Kaaba in Makkah. If you are unsure, you can use any Qibla compass app to find the direction from your location.