Daily five times prayer is not just a ritual in Islam, but it is a transformative act that strengthens a Muslim’s relationship with their creator (Allah). The benefits of praying 5 times a day go far beyond fulfilling a religious obligation. It impacts mental clarity, ethical behavior, social unity, and physical wellness as well.
So, the Muslims pray five times a day just because of the command of Allah, and these prayers were revealed to the Prophet (SAW). It serves as a spiritual connection, and it’s a way to seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah. Let’s see why Muslims pray 5 times a day and what the benefits of praying 5 times a day.
Why Do Muslims Pray Five Times a Day?
Salah was made obligatory during the Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) miraculous journey of Isra and Mi’raj. Initially, 50 prayers were instructed on the Muslim Ummah, but later on reduced to only five prayers a day. After reducing to five times a day, the promise was that the reward would remain equivalent to 50 prayers (Sahih Muslim 162).
Hadith Reference
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
“The five daily prayers and from one Jumu’ah to the next are expiation for what is between them so long as one does not commit major sins.”
(Sahih Muslim 233)
The hadith shows how prayer can provide spiritual purification and cleanse the soul.
Quran Reference
Allah commands in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.”
(Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:45)
Spiritual Significance of Praying Five Times a Day
Prayer helps us to connect the soul with its creator multiple times a day. With each Salah, the heart finds peace, the soul gets cleaned from toxins like arrogance and impatience. The prostration (sajdah) in particular is the closest a believer gets to Allah (Sahih Muslim 482).
Some of the most important significances are:
- Gratitude
- Hope
- Forgiveness
- Discipline
- Connection with Allah
- Inner peace
Mental Health Benefits
Research shows that regular mindful practices and meditation reduce anxiety and depression. Salah, with its rhythmic motions and deep spiritual focus, calms the mind, reduces stress hormones, and induces a meditative state.
In 2015, a study published in the Journal of Religion and Health found that daily prayer helps to reduce the feelings of loneliness and hopelessness among Muslim individuals.
Psychological Benefits
The structure of praying 5 times a day provides emotional stability and reduces uncertainty. Salah provides a grounding effect because when you face Qiblah, you follow familiar physical movements and recite known verses.
Physical Health Benefits
Salah includes many movements like standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting, which are quite similar to low-impact yoga. It helps in flexibility, muscle strength, and joint health. Regular movements in the prayer help to improve the blood circulation in the body. Also, performing wudu helps to maintain physical cleanliness and improve hygiene.
Social Benefits
Praying in congregation (Jama’ah), especially in mosques, fosters a strong sense of community. It creates a connection among different people, unites with with different backgrounds in one place, teaches equality, and brings brotherhood.
Moral and Ethical Benefits
Salah develops self-awareness and personal accountability. A person who sincerely prays is more likely to avoid unethical behavior because they are constantly reminded of divine presence and judgment.
Timing and Structure of Prayer Times
Each of the five prayers aligns with the natural phases of the day:
- Fajr (before sunrise) – sets a peaceful tone for the day.
- Dhuhr (midday) – provides a mental reset from work or studies.
- Asr (afternoon) – renews focus and energy.
- Maghrib (sunset) – invites reflection and gratitude.
- Isha (night) – closes the day in serenity and submission.