Introduction
Solat Taubat, also known as the prayer of repentance, is a voluntary prayer that Muslims perform to seek forgiveness for their sins. It is a highly recommended prayer and is performed when a person feels guilty about their actions and wishes to seek Allah's forgiveness. In this article, we will discuss how many rakats Solat Taubat has and how to perform it.
How Many Rakats Does Solat Taubat Have?
Solat Taubat consists of two rakats, just like the morning (Fajr) and evening (Maghrib) prayers. However, some scholars suggest performing four rakats, similar to the Duha prayer. It is important to note that the number of rakats may vary depending on the school of thought and the individual's preference.
When to Perform Solat Taubat?
Solat Taubat can be performed at any time of the day or night except for the prohibited times, which are after the Fajr prayer until the sun has risen and after the Asr prayer until the sun has set. It is best to perform the prayer during the last third of the night as this is the time when Allah descends to the lowest heaven and forgives those who seek His forgiveness.
How to Perform Solat Taubat?
The method of performing Solat Taubat is the same as any other voluntary prayer. The steps are as follows:
Step 1: Make the intention
Make the intention to perform Solat Taubat for seeking Allah's forgiveness.
Step 2: Perform Wudu
Perform Wudu (ablution) as you would for any other prayer.
Step 3: Stand for Prayer
Stand facing the Qibla and recite the Takbiratul Ihram (Allahu Akbar) to begin the prayer.
Step 4: Recite Surah Al-Fatihah
Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by any other Surah from the Quran.
Step 5: Perform Ruku'
Bend down for Ruku' (bowing) and recite the usual dua. Stay in Ruku' for a few moments.
Step 6: Stand Up Straight
Stand up straight and recite "Sami'Allahu liman hamidah" (Allah hears those who praise Him) and then say "Rabbana lakal hamd" (Our Lord, all praise is for You).
Step 7: Perform Sujud
Perform Sujud (prostration) and recite the usual dua. Stay in Sujud for a few moments.
Step 8: Sit Upright
Sit upright and recite "Rabbighfirli" (O Allah, forgive me).
Step 9: Perform the Second Rakat
Stand up for the second rakat, recite Surah Al-Fatihah and any other Surah from the Quran. Then, perform Ruku', stand up straight, perform Sujud, and sit upright as you did in the first rakat.
Step 10: End the Prayer
After the second Sujud of the second rakat, sit upright and recite the Tashahhud and Salam to end the prayer.
Conclusion
Solat Taubat is a voluntary prayer that Muslims perform to seek Allah's forgiveness for their sins. It consists of two rakats, and the method of performing the prayer is the same as any other voluntary prayer. It is essential to perform this prayer whenever we feel guilty about our actions and wish to seek Allah's forgiveness. May Allah forgive our sins and guide us to the right path. Ameen.
