Al-Ma'arij: (22-23) Except for the Praying Ones

The first point is His saying:

{Except for the praying ones * Who are constant in their prayers}

If it is asked:

He said: {Who are constant in their prayers} and then: {Who are ever watchful over their prayers} (Al-Ma'arij: 34).

We reply: The meaning of their constancy (dā’imūn) upon them is that they do not abandon them at any time. Their watchfulness (muḥāfiẓūn) over them refers to the concern regarding their state so that they are performed in the most perfect manner. This concern is sometimes achieved through matters preceding the prayer, sometimes through matters accompanying it, and sometimes through matters following it.

As for the preceding matters: This includes having the heart attached to the entry of the prayer times before they arrive, being concerned with ablution (wuḍū’), covering the private parts (ʿawrah), seeking the Qibla, finding pure clothing and a pure place, performing the prayer in congregation, and in the blessed mosques. It also includes striving before entering the prayer to empty the heart of distractions (wasāwis) and turning away from anything other than God Almighty, and being extremely cautious against showing off (riyā’) and seeking reputation (sumʿah).

As for the accompanying matters: This is not turning right or left, and having presence of heart during the recitation, understanding the remembrances (adhkār), and being aware of the wisdom of the prayer.

As for the following matters: This is not engaging in idle talk, amusement, or play after establishing the prayer, and being extremely cautious against committing any sins after it.

The second point is His saying, the Exalted:

{And those in whose wealth is a known share * For the one who asks and the one who is deprived}