In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Especially Merciful.
May Allah bless our master and patron Muhammad, His noble Prophet, and his family and Companions.

Book of Prayer

Section
On the Derivation of the Word Salāh

The original linguistic meaning of salāh (prayer) is supplication. Allah, Mighty and Majestic, says:

“Among the Bedouins are those who believe in Allah and the Last Day and regard what they spend as a means of drawing near to Allah and obtaining the Messenger’s prayers.” [Al-Tawbah: 99]

That is, his supplications. Allah, blessed and exalted is He, also says:

“Take charity from their wealth to purify and cleanse them thereby, and pray for them.” [Al-Tawbah: 103]

That is, supplicate for them.

“Indeed, your prayer is a reassurance for them.” [Al-Tawbah: 103]

That is, your supplications reassure them. Thus, whenever people brought their charitable contributions, the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, would supplicate for them. ʿAbd Allāh ibn Abī Awfā said: “I accompanied my father when he brought his charitable contribution to the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, who said, ‘O Allah, bless the family of Abū Awfā.’”

Allah Most High says:

“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who believe, invoke blessings upon him and greet him with peace.” [Al-Ahzāb: 56]

Prayer was therefore given this name because of the supplication it contains: it is an act of obedience to Allah, a means of drawing near to Him, and an occasion for seeking His forgiveness and mercy and admission to His Paradise. Do you not see that