By Alqasim Gbemisola
Praying in congregation, also called jama’ah prayer, is an aspect of praying that is adorned with heavy benefits.
Prayer is a form of divine communication of believers in expressing their thoughts, feelings, and desires to their deity or deities. It takes many forms of verbal recitation, physical gestures, or silent meditation.
In a religious context, prayer is often viewed as a means of seeking guidance, forgiveness, and blessings from the divine. It is a way for people to reflect on their lives and ask for help in times of need.
The Muslim act of worship is bound with a unique purpose and significant steps for better worshipping. It involves adherence to the rules of making oneself submit to the will of Allah. Salat is the formal prayer that Muslims serve daily five times. It is considered one of the pillars of Islam, made up of specific movements and recitations.
Du’a is a general form of supplication that can be made at any time and in any place. It is usually a spontaneous, heartfelt prayer that is directed towards Allah.
Dhikr refers to the act of remembrance and glorification of Allah, which can take the form of repeating specific phrases. It is often used as a form of meditation or spiritual reflection.
However, Praying in congregation provides an opportunity for people to come together and build a sense of community. It increases faith and support among believers in their spiritual journeys.
In Islam, in terms of spiritual rewards, praying in a congregation carries more spiritual benefits than praying alone, such as providing emotional support during difficult times.
In Learning and education, Praying in the congregation can be a valuable learning experience. It allows people to observe and learn from the actions and words of others, and it provides a forum for discussion and exchange of ideas.
However, Congregation Prayers are associated with greater rewards than praying alone. This is based on a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which states that the reward for praying in congregation is greater than the reward for praying alone. Other rewards of congregation prayer include erasing sins and purifying the heart.
Praying in congregation is also believed to raise spiritual awareness and growth and deepen one’s understanding of the religion. It provides an opportunity for reflection and introspection, and it can help to cultivate a stronger connection with Allah.
Praying in congregation helps to build a sense of unity and camaraderie among believers. It provides an opportunity for people to come together and share their faith, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Moreover, Hadith No: 620
Narrated/Authority of Abu Huraira
Allah’s Apostle said, “The reward of the prayer offered by a person in congregation is twenty-five times greater than that of the prayer offered in one’s house or the market (alone).
” This is because if he performs ablution and does it perfectly and then proceeds to the mosque with the sole intention of praying, then for every step he takes towards the mosque, he is upgraded one degree in reward and his one sin is taken off (crossed out) from his accounts (of deeds).
“When he offers his prayer, the angels keep on asking Allah’s Blessings and Allah’s forgiveness for him as long as he is (staying) at his Musalla. They say, ‘O Allah! Bestow Your blessings upon him, be Merciful and kind to him.’ And one is regarded in prayer as long as one is waiting for the prayer.”