Developing Khushu in the prayer By Muhammed Salih al Munajjid
Khushu Salah is the cornerstone of a Muslim’s daily life. However, for most, Salah is now a monotonous ritual done without thought or attendance. In his book “Developing Khushu in the Prayer,” Shaykh Muhammad Salih Al-Munajjid addresses this issue with spiritual insight and clarity.
Khushu is the inner modesty and focus that all the believers try to acquire in their prayer. It is not an emotion but an intention to get connected with Allah on a deeper level. Prayer is dry and robotic without Khushu.
A Guide Based on the Qur’an and Sunnah
Shaykh Al-Munajjid relies heavily on the Qur’an, Hadith, and the opinions of early scholars to assist readers. His methodology is down-to-earth and practical. He does not overwhelm with intricate rulings but emphasizes purification of the heart and vigilance in Salah.
The book begins by detailing the virtues of Khushu, illustrating how it is attributed to acceptance of prayers and spiritual development. He introduces Khushu as the differentiating characteristic of the real believers depicted in Surah Al-Mu’minoon.
Why Khushu Is Often Missing Today
The author does not hold back on the realities Muslims must deal with in today’s world. With distractions around every corner, digital interference, and hurried lifestyles, most struggle to focus when praying. Shaykh Al-Munajjid is keen to note that Khushu is lost not because a person lacks knowledge, but because of complacency in preparing the heart and mind.
He names universal reasons which deter Khushu—like sins, worldly attachments, and reciting tasbeeh without knowing the meaning of words being said. This frank diagnosis makes readers honestly examine what inhibits them.
Khushu Starts Prior to Takbir
One of the most precious things I’ve learned in this book is that Khushu does not start when you recite “Allahu Akbar”—it starts before that. How you lead up to prayer, how your mind is, the speed with which you move, and even how you live lead to how concentrated you can become in Salah.
Shaykh Al-Munajjid suggests certain things that prepare one for Khushu prior to the start of prayer. They are performing a correct wudhu with awareness, finding a quiet location, and separating from worldly thoughts. He urges believers to view prayer not as a diversion from life but as a way of returning to their real purpose.
Understanding What You Say
An important aspect of gaining Khushu is comprehending the meaning of words recited during prayer. Shaykh Al-Munajjid clarifies that most Muslims go through the prayers without really comprehending the meanings they are reciting.
He recommends mastering the translation and meaning of each component of the Salah—from the initial Takbir to the concluding Tasleem. When the heart is familiar with the meaning, the mind follows by itself. This link turns prayer into a heartfelt dialogue with Allah.
The Role of the Heart in Worship
The book dives deep into the spiritual dimensions of Khushu. Shaykh Al-Munajjid emphasizes that Khushu is not just about stillness of the body, but stillness of the heart. A heart filled with love for Allah, fear of His displeasure, and hope in His mercy will naturally be present during Salah.
He also notes that Khushu can vary in quality from one prayer to another. What matters is continuous striving. Like a muscle, Khushu must be trained and nurtured over time through sincerity, repentance, and consistent effort.
Eliminating Distractions in Prayer
Another subject the author emphasizes is the necessity of eliminating physical and mental distractions. From ringing mobile phones to messy environments, outside sources tend to easily disrupt concentration. Shaykh Al-Munajjid recommends keeping such interruptions at a minimum in order to maintain the holiness of the prayer area.
Internally, he explains how the mind can get hijacked by thoughts regarding work, family, or stress. He proposes methods like standing posture awareness, recalling death, and reaffirming intentions to remain grounded while engaging in the act of worship.
The Prophet’s Example of Khushu
Shaykh Al-Munajjid devotes a section to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and how much Khushu he possessed. His prayer was not only organized; it was full of feeling and awe. He would at times weep during recitation, stop in contemplation, and extend sujood out of affection for his Lord.
The writer reminds us of how the Prophet is our mentor. Learning how he approached things helps us cultivate greater humility and concentration. His lesson learns us that Khushu is inward and outward too as a sign of submission to Allah.
Making Consistent Effort
“Building Khushu during the Prayer” also emphasizes effort regularly. Shaykh Al-Munajjid informs readers not to lose hope if they find it difficult to concentrate. Even the most righteous companions used to struggle hard to develop Khushu. What is important is the regular effort towards that.
He gives inspiring anecdotes and tips from the early generations of Muslims, who would cry during prayer or stay in Salah for hours. Their passion for Allah and knowledge of the Hereafter motivated them to make every prayer count.
A Lifelong Journey to Sincere Worship
This is not a how-to guide book; it is a guidebook for all Muslims that want to make prayer the center of their religion. Shaykh Al-Munajjid serves a reminder that overnight, Khushu is not acquired. It is a continuous effort and an indication of genuine success in this life and the hereafter.
By emulating the instructions of this book, the readers can start working their way toward a more concentrated, peaceful, and spiritually enriching Salah. It’s not perfection it’s effort, sincerity, and increasing love for the One who answers our duaa.
