Definition
ʿASR (عصر) refers to one of the five obligatory daily prayers (Salat) in Islam. Specifically, it is known as the afternoon prayer, falling between the mid-afternoon and sunset.
Etymology
The term “ʿASR” derives from the Arabic root ‘ع-ص-ر’ (ʿa-sa-ra), which generally means “to press” or “to squeeze.” In the context of time, it underscores the period when the day’s heat is squeezed into its decline—signifying late afternoon.
Background
The ʿASR prayer holds high significance in Islamic spirituality, marking the transitional period between the working day and the evening. It’s one of the five daily prayers outlined in the Holy Qurʾān:
Sūrat Al-Baqarah [2:238]:
“Guard strictly your (habit of) prayers, especially the Middle Prayer; and stand before Allah in a devout (frame of mind).”
Cultural Differences and Similarities While ʿASR is universally observed by Muslims around the globe, its practice can reflect cultural nuances. In some cultures, the ʿASR prayer is followed by a break in the day, while in others, the day might continue actively with minimal interruption.
Synonyms:
- Afternoon Prayer
- Salat al-ʿAsr
- Middle Prayer (بَيْنَ الصَّلَاتَيْن)
Antonyms:
- Non-prayer periods
- Dhuhr (Noon prayer)
- Maghrib (Sunset prayer)
Related Terms & Definitions:
- Salat (صلاة): The ritual Islamic prayer performed five times daily.
- Dhuhr (ظهر): The noon prayer.
- Maghrib (مَغْرِب): The sunset prayer.
- Fajr (فَجْر): The dawn prayer.
- Isha (عشاء): The night prayer.
Exciting Facts
- The efficacy of the ʿASR prayer is accentuated in many Hadiths, with specific emphasis on maintaining this “middle prayer.”
- Globally, prayer times adjust slightly every day to align with the sun’s position, so the ʿASR timing varies from place to place.
Quotations
Notable Writers
Al-Ghazali (1058–1111), the prominent Islamic theologian and philosopher, reflects on ʿASR :
“The ʿASR prayer is a stern reminder of the temporality of the worldly life and a call to renew our remembrance of Allah amidst our daily toils.”
References & Suggested Literature
- “The Revival of the Religious Sciences” by Al-Ghazali
- “In the Shade of the Qur’an” by Sayyid Qutb
- “A Thematic Commentary on the Qur’an” by Muhammad al-Ghazali
- “The Clear Quran: A Thematic English Translation” by Dr. Mustafa Khattab
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
May the insight into ʿASR deepen our understanding and bring tranquility and a renewed sense of purpose in our spiritual practice. Just as the day’s light gracefully recedes into evening, let us embrace the beauty and discipline held within the afternoon prayer.
