Originally posted 2024-05-12 20:58:01.

The individual and the community that observe the prayer are centers of enlightenment, human reform and uprightness.

EDC Staff

The Transformative Power and Societal Impact of Prayer in Islam

Prayer (Salah) is one of the five pillars of Islam and the first act for which a person will be held accountable on the Day of Resurrection. If it is accepted, then all other deeds will be accepted; and if it is rejected, all other deeds will likewise be rejected. Prayer is the greatest and most significant act for those seeking closeness to Almighty Allah.

In a Qudsi Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that Allah said:

“I have divided the prayer between Me and My servant into two halves, and My servant shall have what he asks for. When the servant says, ‘Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds,’ Allah says, ‘My servant has praised Me.’ When he says, ‘The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,’ Allah says, ‘My servant has extolled Me.’ When he says, ‘Master of the Day of Judgment,’ Allah says, ‘My servant has glorified Me’ — or, on another occasion, ‘My servant has entrusted his affairs to Me.’ When he says, ‘You alone we worship and You alone we ask for help,’ Allah says, ‘This is between Me and My servant, and My servant shall have what he asked for.’ When he says, ‘Guide us to the straight path — the path of those upon whom You have bestowed Your favor, not of those who have earned Your wrath nor of those who went astray,’ Allah says, ‘This is for My servant, and My servant shall have what he asked for.’”
(Muslim)

It is no surprise that the Qur’an highlights the establishment of prayer as both the first and final characteristic of the true believers. In Surat Al-Mu’minun (23:1–2), Allah says:

“Certainly will the believers have succeeded. They who are during their prayer humbly submissive.”

And the passage concludes with:

“And they who carefully maintain their prayers.”
(Al-Mu’minun 23:9)

This underscores the central status of prayer in the life of the individual Muslim and in the broader Muslim community.

Prayer: Not Merely a Personal Ritual

A common misconception is that prayer—and other religious practices—are only part of a private, spiritual relationship between the servant and his Lord, with no relevance to public life, society, economy, or politics. This view is, in fact, what many adversaries of Islam promote to isolate prayer from its broader societal function.

However, when prayer is disconnected from consciousness and devotion to Allah, it becomes nothing more than empty movements, void of spiritual depth and practical impact. True prayer has transformative effects that extend beyond the mosque, impacting every facet of personal and communal life.

Social Dimensions of Prayer

Prayer has an educational and social impact, encouraging compassion, cooperation, and support for the needy. Allah says:

“Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense? That is the one who repulses the orphan and does not encourage the feeding of the poor. So woe to those who pray but are heedless of their prayer — those who make a show of their deeds and withhold simple assistance.”
(Al-Ma’un 107:1–7)

A sincere praying person is expected to live by Islamic ethics in all dealings—avoiding insults, lies, backbiting, or any form of harm—and instead spreading goodness, honesty, and mercy.

Prayer is also connected with restraining aggression and promoting peace. Allah says:

“Have you not seen those who were told, ‘Restrain your hands [from fighting] and establish prayer…’”
(An-Nisaa’ 4:77)

Moreover, prayer continuously reminds the believer of Allah’s commands and prohibitions:

“Establish prayer for My remembrance.”
(Ta-Ha 20:14)

This regular reminder cultivates moral discipline and promotes a peaceful, ethical society. Islam encourages congregational prayer, emphasizing unity, order, and brotherhood.

Broader Effects of Prayer

The effects of prayer go far beyond the individual. A community that maintains prayer becomes a source of enlightenment and reform. Prayer nurtures:

A. Conscious awareness – A constant remembrance of Allah fosters fear of sin and a sense of accountability.

B. A desire for repentance – Regular prayer renews one’s connection with Allah, opening the door to forgiveness and moral reform.

C. Social empathy – Sincere prayer encourages love, selflessness, and a desire for good for others. It discourages hatred and selfishness, which are roots of social corruption.

In every prayer, the worshipper asks Allah for guidance, mercy, and goodness for all, fostering communal bonds and mutual goodwill