that is, the very nature of the act of worship of which it is composed, and without which it is invalid. For every act of worship consists of verbal and physical components. Among these constituent elements are those without which the act is invalid in every circumstance; these are the pillars. Others are those without which it is invalid in certain circumstances; these are the obligations. Still others are those without which it remains valid in every circumstance; these are the sunnah acts.

If someone were to ask: What is the evidence for this classification of the prayer as being composed of pillars, obligations, and sunnah acts? We read the Quran and the sunnah, yet do not find this.

The answer is that the scholars, may Allah have mercy on them, examined the texts and derived these rulings from them. They saw that the texts indicate them, and so classified them in order to make knowledge easier for the student of knowledge. There is no doubt that this makes knowledge more accessible. Had these rulings remained scattered, the beginner would not distinguish between that by which an act of worship is valid and that without which it is invalid.

Standing

His statement, “Standing”: This is the first pillar. The evidence is Allah’s saying: “Stand before Allah in devout obedience.” [Surah al-Baqarah: 238] The sunnah likewise includes the Prophet’s statement to Imran ibn Husayn: “Pray standing; if you are unable, then sitting; and if you are unable, then on your side.” (1)

The author began with standing because it precedes all the other pillars. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “When you stand for the prayer, perform the ablution thoroughly