Fard and Sunnah: Key Differences and Role in Islamic Worship

Introduction

Islam is a religion that contains not only faith but also actions that reflect your beliefs. At the core of Islamic practice and worship are the Fard and Sunnah acts that guide Muslims in their daily lives. Understanding these concepts is vital for Muslims to fulfill their religious obligations accurately and comprehensively.

This introduction will provide a brief overview of the Fard and Sunnah, which together help shape the life of a practicing Muslim. We will explore how these elements contribute to a holistic approach to worship and morality, emphasizing the importance of thoughtfully incorporating these practices into our daily lives.

Fard (Obligatory Acts)

Fard refers to the religious duties and acts that are considered obligatory for every Muslim. These acts are clearly commanded by Allah (SWT) in the Quran or by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) through his Sunnah (traditions). Failing to perform a Fard act without a valid reason is considered sinful. The Fard Acts are divided into two categories;

• Fard al-Ayn (Individual Obligatory Acts)
• Fard al-Kifaya (Collective Obligatory Acts)

Fard al-Ayn (Individual Obligatory Acts)

Fard al-Ayn refers to the personal obligations that every adult Muslim must fulfill individually. These acts are mandatory, and failing to do so without a valid excuse is regarded as a sin. The emphasis on Fard al-Ayn is that each individual is directly responsible for fulfilling these duties, regardless of the actions of others.

Examples

• Salah (Prayer): Every Muslim is required to offer five daily prayers, establishing a direct connection between the worshipper and Allah (SWT).
• Zakat (Charity): An obligatory form of charity intended to redistribute wealth within the community to help those in need.
• Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): An annual observance that involves fasting from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan.
• Hajj (Pilgrimage): A pilgrimage to Mecca that is obligatory for those who are physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime.
• Repentance (Tawbah): When a Muslim sins, it becomes obligatory to seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT) through sincere repentance (Tawbah).
• Seeking Necessary Knowledge: Every Muslim must seek knowledge about Islam’s fundamental beliefs and practices, such as the correct way to perform prayers, the rules of fasting, and the basics of Halal (permissible) and Haram (forbidden).

Fard al-Kifaya (Collective Obligatory Acts)

The concept of Fard al-Kifaya in Islam refers to collective obligatory acts that are mandatory for the Muslim community as a whole rather than for each individual. If a sufficient number of people within the community fulfill these obligations, the duty is considered fulfilled for the entire community. However, if no one fulfills the commitment, the entire community is considered to be in a state of sin.

Examples

• Funeral Prayers (Salat al-Janazah): Salat al-Janazah is the responsibility of the community to perform the funeral prayer for a deceased Muslim. If some members of the community perform this prayer, the obligation is fulfilled for everyone else.
  
  Hazrat Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri narrated that:
  The Prophet (SAW) said, “When you see a funeral procession, you should stand up, and whoever accompanies it should not sit till the coffin is put down.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1310)
• Dawah (Inviting Others to Islam): Dawah refers to the act of inviting others to Islam, whether they are non-Muslims or Muslims who need guidance or reminders about their faith. If some members of the community are actively engaged in Dawah, the collective responsibility is fulfilled for others.
• Jihad (Striving in the Cause of Allah Almighty): Jihad, in its broadest sense, means striving or struggling in the cause of Allah (SWT). This can include both military and non-military efforts, such as personal struggles to live a righteous life, spreading knowledge, or defending the Muslim community. The military aspect of Jihad is considered Fard al-Kifaya. However, if the community is under direct attack, Jihad may become a Fard al-‘Ayn for everyone capable.

Sunnah (Traditionally Followed Acts)

The Sunnah, which refers to the practices, sayings, and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), provides a model for Muslims to follow. Although not obligatory, the Sunnah is crucial in shaping a Muslim’s daily life and spirituality, offering a practical example of how to implement Islamic principles. It complements the Quran by providing detailed guidance on the conduct expected of Muslims and enhances the understanding of the Quran through practical application.

For more information about daily life, visit this link: Live Like the Prophet (SAW): Daily Sunnah for a Fulfilling Life.

There are two categories of Sunnah;

• Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Emphasized Sunnah)
• Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah (Non-Emphasized Sunnah)

Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Emphasized Sunnah)

These are the acts that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) performed regularly and strongly encouraged his followers to do the same. Performing these acts earns a significant reward while neglecting them is not considered a sin but is frowned upon.

Examples

• Eid Prayers: The two Eid prayers (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) are considered Sunnah Mu’akkadah.
• Witr Prayer: This prayer, performed after the obligatory Isha prayer, is highly emphasized by the Prophet (peace be upon him) and consists of an odd number of rak’ahs (1, 3, 5, etc).
• Greetings with Salam: It is highly recommended that you initiate the greeting of peace (saying “Salaam alaykum”). The Prophet (PBUH) highlighted the importance of spreading peace through this greeting.
• Attending the Friday Prayer (Jumu’ah) Early: It is highly stressed to arrive early for the Friday prayer, listen to the khutbah (sermon) attentively, and perform the recommended Sunnah prayers before the Jumu’ah prayer.

Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah (Non-Emphasized Sunnah)

It refers to the practices and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) which he performed occasionally and recommended, but less consistently than Sunnah Mu’akkadah. These actions are recommended and bring rewards when performed, however neglecting them is not considered sinful. Performing these acts is praiseworthy and encouraged but not required.

Examples

• Additional Voluntary Prayers (Nafl): Nafl prayers are optional, non-obligatory prayers that a Muslim can perform at any time of the day or night (outside of the prohibited times).
• Two Rak’ahs after Wudu: The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) recommended offering two units of prayer (Rak’ahs) after performing Wudu (ablution). This is a voluntary act and falls under Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah.
• Tahiyyat al-Masjid (Greeting the Mosque): Tahiyyat al-Masjid is a voluntary prayer consisting of two Rak’ahs performed upon entering a mosque before sitting down.

Fard and Sunnah in Salah (Prayer)

The number of Farz Rak’ahs for Each Prayer:

• Fajr: 2 Rak’ahs
• Dhuhr: 4 Rak’ahs
• Asr: 4 Rak’ahs
• Maghrib: 3 Rak’ahs
• Isha: 4 Rak’ahs

Sunnah Rak’ahs Before and After the Obligatory Prayers:

• Fajr: 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah before performing farz.
• Dhuhr: 4 Sunnah Mu’akkadah before + 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah after.
• Asr: 4 Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah before.
• Maghrib: 2 Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah before + 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah after.
• Isha: 2 Sunnah Ghair Mu’akkadah before + 2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah after.

Fard and Sunnah for Wudu (Ablution)

Fard in Wudu: There are four Fard of Wudu in Islam;

• Washing the Face: Wash the entire face from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear.
• Washing the Arms: Wash both arms from the fingertips to the elbows, including the elbows.
• Wiping Over Part of the Head: Wipe at least one-fourth of the head with wet hands.
• Washing the Feet: Wash both feet up to and including the ankles, ensuring water reaches between the toes.

Sunnah in Wudu:

• Begin Wudu by saying “Bismillah” (In the name of Allah Almighty).
• Clean the teeth with a Miswak or toothbrush before starting Wudu.
• Wash both hands up to the wrists three times at the start of Wudu.
• Rinse the mouth three times.
• Sniff water into the nostrils and blow it out three times.
• Wipe the inside and outside of the ears with wet fingers.
• Wiping around the neck
• Wash each obligatory part (face, arms, feet) three times.
• Be moderate in the use of water, avoiding wastage.
• Recite the Shahada and make a dua for forgiveness after completing Wudu.

Farz and Sunnah for Ghusl (Full Body Ritual Purification)

Ghusl, or complete ritual purification, is required in specific circumstances in Islam. Understanding the Fard and Sunnah practices can help ensure the correct performance of Ghusl with spiritual mindfulness.

Read more: Taharah (purification) in Islam: Path to Purity.

Fard in Ghusal: These are the essential acts required for Ghusl to be valid:

• Rinsing the inner mouth (gargle with water). 
• Irrigate the nose (rinse inside of the nose) with water and blowout. 
• Washing the entire body.

Sunnah in Ghusl:

• Making the intention (Niyyah) for purification.
• Washing the hands at the beginning.
• Performing Wudu before Ghusl.
• Starting with the right side of the body.
• Wash the head three times.
• Use water moderately and wash each part three times.
• Avoid talking during Ghusl.

For more information about ritual purity, read the following blog:

• Ghusl: The Ritual and Spiritual Purity
• Hidden Secrets of Personal Hygiene in Islam: A Must-Read Guide.

Other Classifications

Wajib (Necessary)

Wajib refers to actions that are considered necessary in Islam, although they hold a slightly lesser degree of obligation compared to Fard acts. The difference between Fard and Wajib may vary among different schools of Islamic law, but generally, Wajib acts are those that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) commanded in clear terms. Neglecting a Wajib act may lead to sin, though the consequence is not as severe as neglecting a Fard act.

Wajib (Necessary) of Wudu

Wajib acts are essential for the validity of Wudu, and any omission or incorrect performance of these steps requires the Wudu to be redone.

• Washing the Face: This includes washing the entire face from the hairline to the chin and from ear to ear.
• Washing the Arms Up to the Elbows: Both arms must be washed from the fingertips up to and including the elbows.
• Wiping a Portion of the Head (Masah): Wajib wipes a portion of the head with wet hands. According to some schools of thought, it is necessary to wipe at least one-fourth of the head.
• Washing the Feet Up to the Ankles: You must wash both feet up to and including the ankles.
• Maintaining the Sequence: You must perform the steps of Wudu in the correct order, as it is Wajib. You must wash or wipe each part in the sequence.
• Ensuring Continuity (Muwalat): It is mandatory to perform Wudu without significantly interrupting the washing of each body part. Moreover, you must ensure that no part dries before you wash the next one.

Wajibs of ghusl

• Rinsing the Mouth: It is Wajib to rinse the mouth thoroughly, ensuring that water reaches all parts inside the mouth.
• Rinsing the Nostrils: Rinsing the nostrils by drawing water into them and then expelling them is necessary to ensure that water reaches the internal part of the nose.
• Washing the Entire Body: It is Wajib to wash the entire body, ensuring that water reaches every part, including the skin, hair, and all crevices. No part of the body should remain dry.

Wajibs of prayer

Wajib acts are crucial for the proper execution of Salah. If any of these acts are omitted or not performed correctly, Sujood as-Sahw (prostration of forgetfulness) should be performed to correct the mistake and ensure the validity of the prayer.

• Recitation of Surah Al-Fatiha: Reciting Surah Al-Fatiha in every Rak’ah (unit) of the prayer.
• Recitation of an Additional Surah or Verses: Reciting another Surah or at least three verses from the Quran after Al-Fatiha in the first two Rak’ahs of obligatory prayers.
• Performing Ruku’ (Bowing): Bowing down in Ruku’ after the recitation, with the back straight and hands on the knees.
• Performing Sujood (Prostration): Prostrating twice in each Rak’ah with the forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes touching the ground.
• The First Tashahhud (Sitting): Sitting after the second Rak’ah in prayers that consist of more than two Rak’ahs and reciting the Tashahhud.
• Recitation of Tashahhud: Reciting the Tashahhud during the sitting, which includes bearing witness to the oneness of Allah (SWT) and the Prophethood of Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
• Sitting for the Final Tashahhud: Sitting in the final Rak’ah to recite the Tashahhud before concluding the prayer.
• Tasleem (Salutation): End the prayer by turning the head to the right and saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah.”
• Takbirat al-Intiqal (Transitional Takbirs): Saying “Allahu Akbar” when moving from one position to another within the prayer, except for the initial Takbir al-Ihram, which is Fard.
• Maintaining the Order of Actions: Performing the actions of Salah in their correct sequence (e.g., standing, bowing, prostrating) without altering the order.
• Avoiding Unnecessary Movements: Refraining from unnecessary actions or movements that could distract or disrupt the prayer.

Mustahabb (Recommended)

Mustahabb, or recommended actions in Islam, are not obligatory but are highly encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Performing Mustahabb acts can earn additional rewards from Allah Almighty, but omitting them does not incur sin.

Mustahabb (Recommended) in Wudu

Mustahab acts enhance the spiritual and physical purification process during Wudu and help Muslims follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) more closely. While not obligatory, incorporating these practices into Wudu is highly beneficial and rewarding.

• Facing the Qiblah.
• Starting with the Right Side.
• Using a Miswak (Toothstick).
• Washing Each Part Three Times.
• Performing Wudu in a Quiet, Clean Place.
• Avoiding Wasting Water.
• Reciting the Shahada After Completing Wudu.
• Performing Two Rak’ahs of Voluntary Prayer.
• Avoid taking assistance in making wudu from anyone, without necessity.
• Making wudu sitting.
• Rinsing the mouth using the right hand.
• Sniffing water into the nose using the right hand.
• Using the left hand to clean the nose.

Mustahabb (Recommended) in Ghusl

• Starting with the Intention (Niyyah).
• Washing the Hands First.
• Cleaning the Private Parts.
• Performing Wudu Before Ghusl.
• Pouring Water Over the Head Three Times.
• Pouring Water Over the Entire Body Three Times.
• Starting with the Right Side.
• Avoiding Wasting Water.

Makruh (Disliked)

Makruh refers to actions that are discouraged but not explicitly forbidden. Engaging in Makruh acts is not considered a sin, but it is preferable to abstain from them, and doing so can bring about divine reward.

Makruh Acts of Wudu

Makruh actions do not directly break Wudu, but they can lead to a lack of proper execution. Consequently, if care is not taken, these actions may result in an incomplete or invalid Wudu. Therefore, it is important to avoid these actions to maintain the purity and validity of Wudu.

• Using Excessive Water.
• Neglecting Proper Order.
• Washing the Body Parts Less Than the Prescribed Times.
• Performing Wudu in a Polluted or Dirty Place.
• Speaking During Wudu.
• Washing Parts Hurriedly or Carelessly.
• Not Cleaning Impurities Before Wudu.
• Interrupting Wudu with Unnecessary Actions.

Makruh Acts for Prayer

Makruh acts in prayer are those actions that are disliked or discouraged, but they do not necessarily invalidate the prayer. However, engaging in these acts can reduce the spiritual quality and reward of the prayer. Here’s a list of Makruh acts in Salah:

• Looking Around During Prayer.
• Praying in a Distracting Environment.
• Rushing Through the Prayer.
• Praying in Tight or Revealing Clothing.
• Covering the Mouth Without Necessity.
• Praying When Extremely Sleepy.
• Praying in Front of a Fire.
• Yawning Loudly or Excessively During Prayer.
• Praying with Eyes Closed Without Necessity.
• Reciting the Quran or Dhikr Aloud to the Point of Disturbing Others.
• Excessive Clearing of the Throat Without Need.
• Praying in a Dirty or Unpleasant Place.
•  Performing salat in the back row though there is space in the front row.
• Performing salat in a garment on which there is a picture of an animal or a human.
• Beginning salat when you need to urinate, defecate, or break wind.
• (For a man) performing salat with his sleeves rolled or with a short-sleeved shirt.
• Bending to the right or the left or swinging.
• Not touching the nose to the ground in sajda.
• Lifting one foot from the ground during sajda.
• Spreading the arms flat resting the elbows on the ground in sajda position.

Actions and Things That Invalidate Wudu

Wudu is considered invalid, and it must be renewed before performing acts of worship that require a state of purity, such as Salah. It is essential to be aware of these invalidators to ensure that one’s acts of worship are valid and accepted.

• Passing urine.
• Passing Gas.
• Discharge of Semen.
• Menstrual and Postnatal Bleeding.
• Deep Sleep.
• Loss of Consciousness.
• Touching the Private Parts.
• Vomiting a Large Amount.
• Bleeding.

Actions and Things That Invalidate Salah

Salah is considered invalid, and it must be performed again to ensure that the act of worship is accepted. It’s crucial to be mindful of these invalidators to maintain the sanctity and correctness of one’s prayer.

• Talking During Salah.
• Eating or Drinking.
• Laughing Out Loud.
• Turning the Chest Away from the Qiblah.
• Exposing the ‘Awrah.
• Anything that nullifies Wudu.
• Breaking the Sequence of Salah.
• Mental Distraction or Loss of Consciousness.
• Intentionally Missing a Pillar (Rukn) of Salah.
• Adding Extra Pillars.
• Intentional Distraction or Playfulness.
• Intentional Delay in the Actions.
• Intention to Break the Prayer.

Times to Avoid for Voluntary Prayers

• Sunrise: This is the time when the sun begins to rise over the horizon.
• Sunset: This is the period just as the sun is setting.
• When the Sun is at its Zenith: This is the point when the sun is directly overhead, at its highest point in the sky, just before the Dhuhr (midday) prayer.

Understanding these categories helps Muslims balance their daily lives, according to Fard and Sunnah.

How Fard and Sunnah Work Together

1. Complementary Role: The Sunnah complements and enhances the Farz acts, making the prayer more complete and rewarding.
2. Reward and Protection: Performing Sunnah acts increases the rewards.
3. Flexibility: While the number of Farz Rakats is fixed, Sunnah acts offer flexibility. They provide an opportunity for additional worship and connection with Allah (SWT). They can be performed according to individual circumstances and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

In Islamic worship, both Fard (obligatory) and Sunnah (voluntary) prayers play significant roles in shaping a Muslim’s spiritual life. Fard prayers are the foundation of daily worship, a compulsory duty that connects the believer directly with Allah (SWT). Neglecting these obligations is considered a serious sin in Islam.

We invite you to share in the comments how you include Farz, Sunnah, Wajib, and Mustahabb practices into your daily life. Your experiences can inspire others on their spiritual path.

O Allah (SWT) guides us to perform our obligations with sincerity and faithfulness. Grant us the ability to follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Ameen!