Prayer is an integral part of the Islamic faith, and performing prayers on time is crucial. However, life’s demands (e.g. illness, forgetfulness, traveling, etc.) sometimes lead to missed prayers, known as Qaza Namaz. In this article, we will explore the significance of Qaza Namaz for Maghrib, the evening prayer, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to perform it.
When are you eligible to pray Qaza Namaz for Maghrib?
In Islam, it is always preferable to perform prayers, including Maghrib, at their designated times. However, if a Maghrib prayer is missed due to unavoidable circumstances, forgetfulness, or other valid reasons, it becomes necessary to make up for it through Qaza Namaz.
If the Maghrib prayer was missed intentionally (without a valid reason), then the situation becomes complicated. There is no clear ruling on this, as it is expected of us (as Muslims) to only miss out on prayer in the event of a valid reason (or forgetfulness, as that is part of human error and weakness).
Whether Qaza namaz is permitted or not, for a Maghrib prayer missed without a valid reason, is a disputed topic. It is unanimous, however, that you should pray for forgiveness immediately, with the intention of doing better in the future.
It was narrated that Anas bin Malik said:
‘The Prophet was asked about a man who forgets prayer or sleeps and misses it. He said: ‘he performs it when he remembers it.'”
~ Sunan Ibn Majah 695
How to pray Qaza Namaz for Maghrib
There is no fixed time for “Qaza” prayer, and you do not have to wait till the next day to pray it during Maghrib time. You may pray at any time, though it is recommended to pray it as soon as one remembers their forgotten prayer.
The only restrictions on Qaza namaz are the three forbidden timings during which prayer is not allowed (sunrise, noon, and sunset).
There is no difference in the manner of prayer for Qaza Maghrib Namaz and regular Maghrib Namaz. Both Prayers have 3 rakats, with the last two rakats including the “Tashahhud”.
The only difference is that you will not pray any Qaza for the 2 rakats of Sunnat-e-Muakaddah that are normally offered after the Maghrib prayer. This is because there is no Qaza for Sunnat prayers.
Here are the steps for offering Maghrib Namaz (and by extension, the Qaza Namaz for Maghrib):
- Niyyat (Intention): Form a sincere intention to pray Maghrib.
- Takbir al-Ihram (Opening Takbir): Say “Allahu Akbar” and begin the prayer.
- Qiyam (Standing – First Rakat): Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
- Recitation: Recite Al-Fatiha and another surah from the Holy Quran.
- Ruku (Bowing): Bow down, saying “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem.”
- Sujud (Prostration): Prostrate, saying “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la.”. Repeat twice, going into the sitting position (Qa’dah) between prostrations.
- Second Rakat: Stand for the second rakat and repeat steps 3-6.
- Qa’dah (Sitting – Second Rakat): After Sujud, recite the Tashahhud in the sitting position.
- Third Rakat: Stand for the third Rakat and repeat steps 3-6.
- Qa’dah (Sitting – Third Rakat): After the sujud in the third rakat, recite Tashahhud again.
- Salat al-Ibrahimiyya: Send blessings upon Prophet Muhammad.
- Final Tasleem: Turn right, and say “Assalamu Alaikum,” marking the end of the prayer.
And so concludes our guide on how to pray Qaza namaz for Maghrib. May your prayers be accepted, and may Allah grant you the strength to fulfill your religious duties with devotion and commitment.