Chapter: The Etiquette of Walking to the Prayer

O Muslim, you stand in dire need of learning the legislated manners that precede the prayer, for this great act of worship requires proper preparation and readiness so that you may enter it in the finest state.

When you walk to the mosque to perform the prayer with the congregation, do so with serenity and dignity. Serenity (sakīnah) is calmness and deliberation in one’s gait, while dignity (waqār) is composure, forbearance, lowering the gaze, softening the voice, and limiting unnecessary turning of the head.

It is related in the Two Ṣaḥīḥs that the Prophet said, “When you come to the prayer…,” and in another wording, “When you hear the iqāmah, walk and keep to serenity; whatever you catch up with, pray, and whatever you miss, complete.” Muslim also narrated: “When one of you is heading toward…"