WHAT IS AS-SALAAT!

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaikum Forum,

This is my work on "What is As-Salaat" contained in an (e)-book entitled "Aqeemus Salaat Establishing As-Salaat (The Prayer) According to the Qur?an Only!", that I am working on for free online publication soon, Allah willing.

I have read as many of the posts that I can that say "Salaat" does not mean "ritual prayer". I have especially reviewed over and over again the article by Wakas I believe that states something like "once and for all proved salaat does not equal prayer". I still disagree with this overall conclusion based on my own research of the Quran. I have also seen the articles and posts by those such as Idolfree that say salaat equal "programming", i.e. meditation, etc. I intend to soon post rebuttals to these that I don't expect to be very long, but will make the argument, assuming that I have the time and that Allah permits me to do so.

For those of you who do not believe that "As-Salaat" is a "formal" prayer with movements, etc., you may not want to waste your time on this post. I have read almost all of the articles and posts on the subject, and understand that there are varying opinions on the issue. Obviously at this point I am not in agreement with those who believe that "As-Salaat" is not a "formal" prayer with structure and movement. Therefore if you believe that, you posts supporting that or giving me the links that I have already read will be of no use.

For those of you who do still believe that "As-Salaat" is a formal prayer that we should be conducting daily, I would love to hear what you think about this section involving the call to As-Salaat. My approach is by using the words of the Quran and subject matter to make connections and understanding for what Allah is relaying to us. Plus feel free, as I know you will, to use your dictionaries, lexicons, knowledge of Arabic and logic with reason to disagree, agree or point out any mistakes and/or additions that you think are revelant.

In my research on the topic, using portions of many of the articles on this site and others, as well as my own background and understanding from Al Quran, I have found the entire As-Salaat to be detailed in the Quran with all that we need to understand how to perform this act of submission, obedience, and worship.

I may posts additional portions of the book as time passes, but I am still reviewing it and making changes or additions as I come across new information or a better understanding of the process. I am very comfortable with what I have so far and I enjoy making As Salaat much more each day now than I ever did before when I practised it the "sunni" way.

May Allah continue to have Mercy on us all and guide us to the Siratul Mustaqeem, Insha Allah

Here it is

WHAT IS AS-SALAAT!

The term ?As-Salaat? translated in English as ?The Prayer?, referring to the Islamic form of ritual worship to Allah, comes from the Arabic root Saad-Lam-Waw and has the following meanings, taken from Classical Arabic lexicons (e.g. E. W Lane) prayer, supplication, petition, oration, eulogy, benediction, commendation, blessing, honour, magnify, bring forth, follow closely, walk/follow behind closely, to remain attached, to contact or to be in contact.

The Quran uses the term "Aqeemus Salaat" quite often which is usually translated as "Establish Prayer." The root of Aqeemu comes from ?qaa-ma,? which means to stand, to be balanced, to have a just, fair and long-term strategy for dealing with problems, and to be steadfast. Therefore, Aqeemus Salaat can be translated "to Establish Prayer", as a permanent and balanced system in which human beings can follow the Divine Code in all aspects of their lives individually, as well as collectively. "Prayer" in english is not completely sufficient to describe "Salaat", because many other words in the Quran denote "prayer" as well. Therefore these other terms as well, will be dealt with later on in this book to establish what is the difference.

In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah". The Muslim prayer (salat) is a religious observance that believers are commanded to perform throughout the course of their lives, the times of which have been stipulated. Human beings are prone to forgetfulness and heedlessness. If they fail to use their will and become caught up in the flow of daily life, they move away from subjects to which they should actually turn their attention and cling to. They forget that Allah enfolds and surrounds them in all ways, that He sees and can hear them at every moment, and that they will have to account to Allah for all they do. They forget death, the existence of Paradise and Hell, that nothing can happen that is not permitted by Allah, and that there is something auspicious in everything and every event. By falling into heedlessness, they can forget the true purpose of life.

As-Salat performed at the daily prescribed times, eradicates that forgetfulness and heedlessness, and keeps the believer's will and awareness alive. It ensures that believers constantly turn to Allah and assists believers in living in the light of Allah?s commandments. The believers who stand in the presence of Allah in order to pray establish a powerful spiritual bond and contact with our Lord.

This system was given first to our foreparents, Adam and his spouse, after they were expelled from the Paradise for disobeying Allah. They repented after realizing their mistake, but were still to suffer the consequences of their own actions. But Allah is the Most Merciful and Oft-Forgiving and thus offered Adam, his spouse, and their offspring a way for eternal salvation and forgiveness

{38}

Transliteration Qulna ihbitoo minha jameeAAan fa-imma ya/tiyannakum minnee hudan faman tabiAAa hudaya fala khawfun AAalayhim wala hum yahzanoona
Literal We said "Drop/decline from it, all together, so when a guidance from Me comes to you, so who followed My guidance, so no fear/fright on them and nor they be sad/grieving."
We said "Get ye down all from here; and if, as is sure, there comes to you Guidance from me, whosoever follows My guidance, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

This ayaat gives us a description of why As-Salaat is so important. After Adam and his spouse had disobeyed Allah and were removed from the Paradise and made to live on the Earth, Allah promised them that guidance would come to them while on the Earth. The correct and complete following of this guidance from Allah gives the follower the promise that on them shall be no fear no shall they grieve. This final guidance to humanity on Earth is today in the form of Al-Quran Al-?Atheem! When the human being makes As-Salaat for remembrance of Allah, they are following this guidance in the best way. When properly performed with sincere intentions, the benefits of As-Salaat flow over into the everyday life and affairs of the human being and cause them to be a creation that is pleasing to Allah. Thereby, Allah bestows Mercy, Forgiveness and more Blessings upon this human being from His unlimited amount of substinence that only Allah can provide!

{55}

Transliteration WaittabiAAoo ahsana ma onzila ilaykum min rabbikum min qabli an ya/tiyakumu alAAathabu baghtatan waantum la tashAAuroona
Literal And follow best (of) what was descended to you from your Lord from before that the torture comes to you suddenly/unexpectedly, and (while) you do not know/feel/sense.
"And follow the best of (the courses) revealed to you from your Lord, before the Penalty comes on you - of a sudden while ye perceive not!-

Al-Qur?an Al-?Atheem is the best of what is revealed to humanity from Allah. It is nothing different from all of the previous scriptures revealed. The reason it is the best is because Allah has protected it from corruption by man and preserved its message for all who sincerely seek His Guidance and Truth. Allah instructs humanity to follow the best in it also. Al-Qur?an has many parables and examples in it, some showing the best path and some showing the wrong paths. Allah instructs those who have trusting faith in Him to follow only that which shows and leads to the best path, or the Siraltul Mustaqeem. The following of this course will save those among humanity who follow it from the Penalty for disobedience, before it comes upon them while they perceive it not!

{15}

Transliteration Innama yu/minu bi-ayatina allatheena itha thukkiroo biha kharroo sujjadan wasabbahoo bihamdi rabbihim wahum la yastakbiroona
Literal Truly/indeed (who) believes with Our verses/evidences (are) those who if they were reminded with it they fell down prostrating and they praised/glorified with their Lord's praise/gratitude, and they do not be arrogant.
Only those believe in Our Signs, who, when they are recited to them, fall down in prostration, and celebrate the praises of their Lord, nor are they (ever) puffed up with pride.

A sign of those among mankind who accept the guidance given to them by the ayah of Al-Qur?an, is that they are not puffed up with pride when the Guidance is recited to them. Instead, they humble themselves and fall down in prostration and glorify with praise their Lord!

{16}

Transliteration Tatajafa junoobuhum AAani almadajiAAi yadAAoona rabbahum khawfan watamaAAan wamimma razaqnahum yunfiqoona
Literal Their sides distances/becomes restless from the places of laying down (beds), they call their Lord fearfully and desiring/coveting, and from what We provided for them they spend.
Their limbs do forsake their beds of sleep, the while they call on their Lord, in Fear and Hope and they spend (in charity) out of the sustenance which We have bestowed on them.

A sign of those who have the highest regard for trusting faith in Allah and His Signs are those who do extra prayers in the night while forsaking sleep. They have loving fear of their Lord, Creator and Sustainer for hope of the best in this life and the best of the afterlife. To show their reverence and appreciation, they maintain their prayers and spend of their wealth for those in need!

Wakas

peace IQO,

I'm not a fan of unecessarily large font, and it actually makes it slower to read.

Anyways, I appreciate you reading over the article I wrote. You said you disagreed with it. I would be interested to know what specific points you disagreed with.
Also, that article should also be read with the following article
http//www.mypercept.co.uk/slw.htm

It actually does not eliminate the meaning of "prayer" altogether.

Your above article didn't have "salat" related content, and it had some statements that not what I would consider "Quran Only" (as your name suggests), e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaikum Brother Wakas

peace IQO,

I'm not a fan of unecessarily large font, and it actually makes it slower to read.

I understand you not being a fan of it, but it does the opposite for me of what it does to you. I stated in another post of mine that the larger font and colors sometimes help me to read it better in my older age. Hope that it doesn't offend people. It's just size and color.

Anyways, I appreciate you reading over the article I wrote. You said you disagreed with it. I would be interested to know what specific points you disagreed with.
Also, that article should also be read with the following article
http//www.mypercept.co.uk/slw.htm

It actually does not eliminate the meaning of "prayer" altogether.

It is my pleasure and privilege to read any articles you and the other members have written. Whether I agree with them or not, it is obvious that you all put in a lot of time and research into them, so they have great benefit for those who read and study them. Sometimes I agree with them 100%, sometimes only portions of them, but nevertheless, I always find something in each article that makes sense to me or guides me to a better understanding of things.

As I mentioned, I will post why I disagreed with the article soon, Allah willing. I was going to try to do it tomorrow, but after briefly clicking on the additional article that you sent, I don't recall reading it. So I will read it as well and add it to the previous information in your other article to get the full picture of what you are saying before I comment, Allah willing.

Your above article didn't have "salat" related content, and it had some statements that not what I would consider "Quran Only" (as your name suggests), e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

I thought it clearly had "salat" related content since it started with the name "What is As-Salaat", and then continued to give definitions for "salaat" and "aqeemus". Maybe since each and every ayat used did not contain a word that derived from the root of "salaat", you assume that this means they are not dealing with "salaat". That is one opinion. I tend to differ on that approach and see a connection of not only "root" words in Quran, but subject matter as well. So sometimes subject is connected simply through understanding and insight, sometimes by "root" words, and sometimes by both.

I understand your statement that you consider it had some statements in it that you don't consider Quran only, but that would be an "opinion" of yours, for surely those who know me and what I have gone through since accepting Quran only, know that I am not a "hadith, sunni,etc." follower in practising and understanding Islam. You may just not agree with the statement that I made, so therefore you consider it not "Quran only" material. Again, that would be an opinion, and to me any opinion is just that; only an opinion, as assumption. Opinion can not stand up against "haqq", because no matter what the circumstancial evidence is, "haqq" is unchangeable. So since Allah knows that I am Quran only, no misperception by anyone else could ever change that because it is haqq for "me".

e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

I understand your point here, yet I still chose to say it that way. Free will if you may. I understand that one can see many more important things to do in Al Islam if they don't believe that "salaat" is even a formal prayer ritual. That makes perfect sense to me. But I am speaking in general about rituals here, not all encompassing. The reader has to use his intellect to not assume that all statements that can be taken in totality are not necessarily meant to be so. Allah says in the Quran that the thinking or remembering of Him is greater, in comparison or contrast to Salaat as one of the criteria. In one aspect, the "shahadah", which later you will find out that I don't believe is what "sunnis, shias and others profess", to me is the initial step in remembering Allah. Without this understanding or declaration of Tawheed, how can one remember Allah correctly since their foundation would be corrupted? So this is first for me even before studying Quran, which by the way is what can lead you to "shahadah", a dilema I guess if you will.

Salaat on the other hand, if you believe it is a "ritual" given for us to perform in Quran, is indeed then the most performed "ritual" on a daily basis that all "mu'min" will do. Considering that all other acts of contemplation and remembering Allah will fall under "shahadah" in my limit context here, and that all good deeds done are not necessarily "rituals" but other actions, then that would make Salaat the second most important "ritual" based on its daily frequent performance.

I hope this makes sense. I know you will analysis better than most can or will. I look forward to our future dialogue with each other on varying subject matter of Al Quran.

As Salaamu Alaikum

Wakas

peace IQO,

I was not aware you used larger font and colour to aid reading. I use Firefox browser and that has a built in magnification by pressing CTRL and + (makes bigger), CTRL - (makes smaller). You may find it helpful.

I thought it clearly had "salat" related content since it started with the name "What is As-Salaat", and then continued to give definitions for "salaat" and "aqeemus". Maybe since each and every ayat used did not contain a word that derived from the root of "salaat", you assume that this means they are not dealing with "salaat". That is one opinion. I tend to differ on that approach and see a connection of not only "root" words in Quran, but subject matter as well. So sometimes subject is connected simply through understanding and insight, sometimes by "root" words, and sometimes by both.

Like you, I connect words as well as subject matter. I just found it odd that you'd base your article on apparently related subject matter, missing out the solid stuff.

I understand your statement that you consider it had some statements in it that you don't consider Quran only, but that would be an "opinion" of yours, for surely those who know me and what I have gone through since accepting Quran only, know that I am not a "hadith, sunni,etc." follower in practising and understanding Islam. You may just not agree with the statement that I made, so therefore you consider it not "Quran only" material. Again, that would be an opinion, and to me any opinion is just that; only an opinion, as assumption. Opinion can not stand up against "haqq", because no matter what the circumstancial evidence is, "haqq" is unchangeable. So since Allah knows that I am Quran only, no misperception by anyone else could ever change that because it is haqq for "me".

Please do not confuse me questioning the content with questioning you being "Quran only". The two may be related but are different.

Look forward to future discussions.

unknownuser

Re What do you believe salat is?
? Reply #30 on Yesterday at 013053 PM ? Quote

As Salaamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah.

In reality since the advent of the Quran alone movement, and it seering popularity in modern times, there's been many debates on this subject. I particularly choose to examine all the verses in referemce to either salaat or glorifying ALLAH ta'Ala at specific times and see how it sqaures with traditional understandings/new conceptualizations.
As to what I've been able to uncover, ma nihmatullah (with the grace of ALLAH), Salaat is structured in this fashion

As Salaatul Fajr
(before the sun has risen)
Y 'Ayyuh Al-Ladhna 'man Liyasta'dhinkumu Al-Ladhna Malakat 'Aymnukum Wa Al-Ladhna Lam Yablugh Al-uluma Minkum Thaltha Marrtin Min Qabli alati Al-Fajri Wa na Taana Thiy Bakum Mina A?-?ahrati Wa Min Badi alati Al-Ish'i Thalthu Awrtin Lakum Laysa Alaykum Wa L Alayhim Junun Badahunna awwfna Alaykum Baukum Al? Bain Kadhlika Yubayyinu Al-Lahu Lakumu Al-'y Ti Wa Allhu Almun akmun

O believers! Let your servants and those children who have not yet attained puberty ask your permission before coming in to see you on three occasions before Fajr Salah (dawn prayer), at noon when you put off your clothes, and after the Isha Salah (night prayer). These are your three times of privacy. At other times, there is no blame on you if you, or they, go around visiting one another. Thus Allah makes His revelations clear to you, for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

Wa Abir Liukmi Rabbika Fa'innaka Bi'a`yunin Wa Sabbi Biamdi Rabbika na Taqmu
Therefore, wait for the Judgment of your Rabb with patience, We are surely watching over you. Glorify your Rabb with His praises when you wake up,

Wa Mina Al-Layli Fasabbihu Wa 'Idbra An-Nujmi
and glorify Him in a part of the night, and also as the stars fade away.

As Salaatul Ishraaq
(after the sun has risen)
Wa 'Aqimi A-alata arafayi An-Nahri Wa Zulafan Mina Al-Layli 'Inna Al-asanti Yudh/hibna As-Sayyi'ti Establish Salah ( prayers) at the two ends of the day and in the early part of the night. Indeed virtues remove evils. This is a reminder for the mindful.

Fbir Al? M Yaqlna Wa Sabbi Biamdi Rabbika Qabla uli Ash-Shamsi Wa Qabla Ghurbih Wa Min 'n'i Al-Layli Fasabbi Wa 'Arfa An-Nahri La`allaka Tar?
Therefore be patient with what they say. Glorify your Rabb with His praise before sunrise and before sunset, glorify Him during the hours of the night as well as at the ends of the day, so that you may find satisfaction.

As Salaatul Dhuhr
(When the sun begins to decline in the sky until late afternoon)

'Aqimi A-alata Lidulki Ash-Shamsi 'Il? Ghasaqi Al-Layli Wa Qur'na Al-Fajri 'Inna Qur'na Al-Fajri Kna Mash/hdan
Establish Salah from the decline of the sun till the darkness of the night (Zuhr, Asr, and Maghrib) and read at Fajr (dawn); for the reading (the Qur'an)at Fajr is witnessed (by the angels).

Wa Lahu Al-amdu F As-Samwti Wa Al-'Ari Wa `Ashyan Wa na Tu?hirna
all praise is due to Him in the heavens and the earth - so glorify Him in the late afternoon and when the day begins to decline.

As Salaatul Asr
(in the late afternoon before sunset)
Wa Lahu Al-amdu F As-Samwti Wa Al-'Ari Wa `Ashyan Wa na Tu?hirna
all praise is due to Him in the heavens and the earth - so glorify Him in the late afternoon and when the day begins to decline.

Fbir Al? M Yaqlna Wa Sabbi Biamdi Rabbika Qabla uli Ash-Shamsi Wa Qabla Ghurbih Wa Min 'n'i Al-Layli Fasabbi Wa 'Arfa An-Nahri La`allaka Tar?
Therefore be patient with what they say. Glorify your Rabb with His praise before sunrise and before sunset, glorify Him during the hours of the night as well as at the ends of the day, so that you may find satisfaction.

fi? `Al? A-alawti Wa A-alati Al-Wus? Wa Qm Lillahi Qnitna
Guard your Salah (obligatory regular prayers) especially the middle Salah and stand up with true devotion to Allah.

Wa Lahu Al-amdu F As-Samwti Wa Al-'Ari Wa `Ashyan Wa na Tu?hirna
all praise is due to Him in the heavens and the earth - so glorify Him in the late afternoon and when the day begins to decline.

As Salaatul Maghrib
(after the sun has set)

Fasubna Al-Lahi na Tumsna Wa na Tubina
Therefore, glorify Allah in the evening and in the morning

Wa 'Aqimi A-alata arafayi An-Nahri Wa Zulafan Mina Al-Layli 'Inna Al-asanti Yudh/hibna As-Sayyi'ti Establish Salah ( prayers) at the two ends of the day and in the early part of the night. Indeed virtues remove evils. This is a reminder for the mindful.

As Salaatul Isha
(during the early part of the night)

Fbir Al? M Yaqlna Wa Sabbi Biamdi Rabbika Qabla uli Ash-Shamsi Wa Qabla Ghurbih Wa Min 'n'i Al-Layli Fasabbi Wa 'Arfa An-Nahri Laallaka Tar? Therefore be patient with what they say. Glorify your Rabb with His praise before sunrise and before sunset, glorify Him during the hours of the night as well as at the ends of the day, so that you may find satisfaction. Y 'Ayyuh Al-Ladhna 'man Liyasta'dhinkumu Al-Ladhna Malakat 'Aymnukum Wa Al-Ladhna Lam Yablugh Al-uluma Minkum Thaltha Marrtin Min Qabli alati Al-Fajri Wa na Taana Thiy Bakum Mina A?-?ahrati Wa Min Badi alati Al-Ish'i Thalthu Awrtin Lakum Laysa Alaykum Wa L Alayhim Junun Badahunna awwfna Alaykum Baukum Al? Bain Kadhlika Yubayyinu Al-Lahu Lakumu Al-'y Ti Wa Allhu `Almun akmun

O believers! Let your servants and those children who have not yet attained puberty ask your permission before coming in to see you on three occasions before Fajr Salah (dawn prayer), at noon when you put off your clothes, and after the Isha Salah (night prayer). These are your three times of privacy. At other times, there is no blame on you if you, or they, go around visiting one another. Thus Allah makes His revelations clear to you, for Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

Wa Mina Al-Layli Fasabbihu Wa 'Adbra As-Sujdi
And glorify Him during a part of the night and after the prostration (prayers).

As Salaatul Tahajjud
(any time after midnight when you wake up)

Wa Mina Al-Layli Fatahajjad Bihi Nfilatan Laka As? 'An Yabathaka Rabbuka Maqman Mamdan
During a part of the night, pray Tahajjud, an additional prayer for you, very soon your Rabb may exalt you to a station of great glory.

Wa Al-Ladhna Yabtna Lirabbihim Sujjadan Wa Qiyman
who pass the night prostrating before their Rabb and standing in prayers;

'Amman Huwa Qnitun 'n'a Al-Layli Sjidan Wa Q'iman Yadharu Al-'khirata Wa Yarj Ramata Rabbihi Qul Hal Yastaw Al-Ladhna Yalamna Wa Al-Ladhna L Yalamna 'Innam Yatadhakkaru 'l Al-'Albbi
Can he who is obedient, pass the hours of night prostrating in worship or standing in adoration, fearing the hereafter and hoping to earn the Mercy of his Rabb, be compared to the man who does not? Are the knowledgeable and the ignorant equal? In fact, none will take heed except the people of understanding.

Qumi Al-Layla 'Ill Qallan
Stand in prayers at night, but not the whole night,

Nifahu 'Aw Anqu Minhu Qallan
half of it or a little less,

'Inna Nshi'ata Al-Layli Hiya 'Ashaddu Wa'an Wa 'Aqwamu Qlan
Surely the getting up at night for prayer is most effective for controlling the self and most suitable for reciting the Qur?an as well;

Now of course everybody will use their own personal interpretation to square this up. I choose not to debate nor argue this point, simply because I accept the Quran as is. Some Muslims who choose to uphold Quran alone will be liberal in their practice, some moderate, some conservative, and some extremist. I choose the middle path, that which according to the plainest interpretation of the words while avoding matters for which I have no knowledge.

Wa L Taqfu M Laysa Laka Bihi Ilmun 'Inna As-Sama Wa Al-Baara Wa Al-Fu'uda Kullu 'l'ika Kna `Anhu Mas'lan
And follow not that of which thou hast no knowledge. Surely the hearing and sight and the heart, all of these will be asked about it. 1736

I hope this is helpful.

Abdul-Latif Al Isbani

P.S. in using modern lexicons and dictionaries, it should be kept in mind that the Arabiyyatul Quraish, commonly called al arabiyyatul fusha, is as distant from modern arabic (especially the arabic of the modern middle east countries) as the when the normans invaded the saxons and developed english in the 11-12th centuries ad to modern english now. Many muslims who have even learned the arabic in college classes here in america, which is not al arabiyyatul fusha, find themselves lost when then emigrate to moden islamic countries. When making grammatical points or stating definitive conclusions based on definitions gained from, for example, the Lane Arabic Lexicon, we need to keep in mind that's most likely not the way the word was used in Muhammad's (alayhi salam) time or by his particular tribe.

As Salaamu Alaykum

ImamQuranonly

Re What do you believe salat is?
? Reply #30 on Yesterday at 013053 PM ? Quote

As Salaamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullah.

In reality since the advent of the Quran alone movement, and it seering popularity in modern times, there's been many debates on this subject. I particularly choose to examine all the verses in referemce to either salaat or glorifying ALLAH ta'Ala at specific times and see how it sqaures with traditional understandings/new conceptualizations.
As to what I've been able to uncover, ma nihmatullah (with the grace of ALLAH), Salaat is structured in this fashion

As Salaamu Alaikum Lahri,

Please review my summary of how to make salaat and let me know what your thoughts and comments are, insha Allah. If you have the interest or the time to do so. Thanks.

As Salaamu Alaikum peace

alpha97

Peace Imam,

Can you elaborate on the following points

1- During salaat as a spiritual practice; what happens to our soul?
2- How this process takes place? what is sought? which shifts happens within human awareness?

you need not to refer to Quran. i just want your understanding as it is! Can you make an image of the mental process which one goes through as salaat proceeds?

enough questions for now

peace

ImamQuranonly

Peace Imam,

Can you elaborate on the following points

1- During salaat as a spiritual practice; what happens to our soul?
2- How this process takes place? what is sought? which shifts happens within human awareness?

you need not to refer to Quran. i just want your understanding as it is! Can you make an image of the mental process which one goes through as salaat proceeds?

enough questions for now

peace

Salaams alpha,

You will have to be more specific with your questions. And if you expect me to answer without any reference to Quran, what is your reasoning for such a request? Anything that I have learned and my understanding about As Salaat will be derived from the Quran, so why would I not make reference to it when answering a question about it?

If you had a question that was directed specifically to something that I wrote, then it would be easier to focus in on what you want answered. I will wait until you respond to answer further, Allah willing.

As Salaamu Alaikum, peace

alpha97

peace Imam,

Let me throw some of what i understand on the table to clearify the questions.

Salaat is a spiritual practice. Spirit grows because of practicing. That growth lies in the realm of consciousness. and the sought is the state of superconsciousness which is the consciousnes of HEART.

The subconscious (NAFS) becomes impregnated by consciousness! The lesser patterns will be transmuted into higher patterns. The lower self humbles itself and becomes so small that it surrenders to the HIGHER SELF (Salvation)!

The process proceeds as following

Getting quite and empty from within. Stopping the cognitive loop which obsorbs the consciousness. reaching the meditative state in which the consciousness energy is 100 % un-consumed and available. state of trance!
Creation of a SPACE whithin which contains those divine attributes that you need to emulate! Glorifying and praising of THE VISION OF GOD.

So in the first step one makes 100% of the consciousness available and in the second stage uses that to create a living space within her/himself of that which you wish to die with!

by the way i do not mind you quoting the holy book! but at this stage prefer to get familiar with each others thoughts first! in a simple manner!

i talked too much

peace,

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaikum alpha07,

I will do my best to answer your questions and comments.

peace Imam,

Let me throw some of what i understand on the table to clearify the questions.

Salaat is a spiritual practice. Spirit grows because of practicing. That growth lies in the realm of consciousness. and the sought is the state of superconsciousness which is the consciousnes of HEART.

I believe based on Al Quran that As Salaat is a physical, mental, emotional and spiritual practice. I believe all of these grow with practise, but the practise must be correct, not just "practise". I believe that consciousness or super consciousness can also be described as "wisdom". To me, as a wise man was once quoted to me, "wisdom" is "knowledge" that has come through the door or "Mercy". This would include both the heart (mercy) and mind (knowledge).

The subconscious (NAFS) becomes impregnated by consciousness! The lesser patterns will be transmuted into higher patterns. The lower self humbles itself and becomes so small that it surrenders to the HIGHER SELF (Salvation)!

When and how did you conclude the "nafs" as used by Allah in Al-Quran is the subconscious? Can you define what "subconscious" means to you? Although it has a general understanding, I see that it could mean something different to you; that is why I am asking.

The process proceeds as following

Getting quite and empty from within. Stopping the cognitive loop which obsorbs the consciousness. reaching the meditative state in which the consciousness energy is 100 % un-consumed and available. state of trance!

I don't see this as a part or function of As-Salaat. But I am not saying that it is not something that can be good.

Creation of a SPACE whithin which contains those divine attributes that you need to emulate! Glorifying and praising of THE VISION OF GOD.

If one wants to emulate the divine attributes, I would say that is an unattainable goal in totality. We are given in Al Quran which "attributes" as human beings that we should try to incorporate in our character and lifestyle. Allah is UNIQUE and ONE, there is none like unto HIM, including us. Al Quran also specifically states that no vision can grasp Allah.

So in the first step one makes 100% of the consciousness available and in the second stage uses that to create a living space within her/himself of that which you wish to die with!

I believe in inner peace and sanctuary, but I want my "peace" to extend to the physical and material world as well. I have no intention to become a hermit of my own mind, conscious or subconscious. I wish to die, when Allah chooses it is my time and not before, with all of my falculties fully engaged in the material world and with a balance of peace also within my innerself, Allah willing.

by the way i do not mind you quoting the holy book! but at this stage prefer to get familiar with each others thoughts first! in a simple manner!

i talked too much

peace,

Alhamdulilaah...I am glad that you don't mind if I quote from Al Quran on a regular basis, although I really didn't in this post response. I think getting to know each other will be enlightening and beneficial to us both, insha Allah.

Thanks and please feel free to talk as much as you like, Allah willing. By the way, are you sufi or have studied it?

As Salaamu Alaikum, peace

alpha97

Peace ImamQuranonly,,

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! i hoop that you can bear my unorthodox way of making a dialogue.

UNDERSATNDING
A clear understanding of the functioning of a spiritual practice is essential to make it work! Thousands of people do practice everyday without any shred of change in how they walk in life.! Many of this is the consequence of the lack of a proper understanding of it! No seed of intention! No available attention!

Subconscious MIND
Humans do not live through constant flow of memory. Humans live their lives through their subconscious mind where the softwares of habits, patterns, opinions, point of views, prejudice, emotional reactions, ?.. all are already programmed into THAT through our past life and its repetitions.
This is the part within us which works as the automatic center of our functioning and without it we can not live! This center needs to be reorganized, cleaned, old furniture thrown out, and revived.! This center filters the incoming data from the outside world and creates an interpretation! This center creates unjust emotional energy within us, which makes us suffer an react improperly.

One can verify this through experiment! by putting time into WATCHING one?s own behaviour , emotions, sensitivities as they happen. So LIVE watching of yourself, quietly and without judgment! It Can give you the certainty of its existence and how it works.

One of my favourite spiritual practices is the silent ZIKR! And that with repetition of divine NAMES (repetition is a programming tool ? just like driving ? you did it so much that it got into your subconscious, now it does it for you).

Of course my friend! Only the ignorant tries to grasp the essence of GOD! But one can let go and surrender himself to be grasped by GOD!

Why does GOD in Quran keep describing HIMSELF with HIS QUALITIES?
those qualities are understandable to us! GOD made that understandable in our HEARTS!

The beautiful names form the vision of GOD! It is like standing on the beach and looking at ocean! You grasp its sense of vastness, but you can improve on this sense more and more again to try to expand your consciousness closer and closer of that reality.

For example the quality of COMPASSION is not invented by us. Humans are not the creator of it! They only can manifest it! It belongs to GOD. One can expand this quality in himself and refine and expand it!

The HIGHER SELF within us already carries those qualities within it. But it is in a dormant state. We need to REMEMBER! The veils of forgetfulness needs to be deactivated and the HIGHER qualities need to be activated!

The idealogies did not bring me to GOD. It was al the way around. The faith of GOD brought me in contact with scriptures and with those who dare to WALK the WALK. In Mystics and among them sufi,s have been devoted in conveying of spiritual practices.

It is not about believing. Belief is exchangeable! One can transfer that to somebody else, but FAITH is a flame within that starts burning when one starts to get straight from inside! ALIGN HER/ HIS DIFFERENT PARTS TOGETHER! Increase er receptivity!

That understanding, intention to change can not be compensated by words and forms! So when one starts to practice, it should be 100x times more important to investigate of what happens inside , instead of producing words, motions , getting the obligation done! Which is only a ritual of ignorance!

InshaALLAH we will talk more

Peace,

Tay

Beautifully expressed, brother alpha!

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaikum,

I would agree with Tay, Alpha. May Allah continue to bless and guide us all, insha Allah.

As Salaamu Alaikum peace

unknownuser

Peace all,

Your above article didn't have "salat" related content, and it had some statements that not what I would consider "Quran Only" (as your name suggests), e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

I agree with brother Wakas.

318 God bears witness that there is no god but He, as do the Angels, and those with knowledge, He is standing with justice. There is no god but Him, the Noble, the Wise.

According to 318, the SHAHADA/witnessing/testifying of oneness of Allah is required for those with knowledge among the humans and not everyone. The BELIEF in oneness of Allah without any partners is more important. Also more important is DECLARATION OF ISLAM/SUBMISSION TO ALLAH and ISLAM/SUBMISSION TO ALLAH

2112 No; whosoever submits himself to God, while doing good, he will have his reward with his Lord. There will be no fear over them, nor will they grieve.

3102 O you who believe, revere God as He deserves to be revered, and do not die except as ones who have submitted.

4125 And who is better in the system than one who submits himself to God, and is a good doer, and he followed the creed of Abraham in monotheism? And God has taken Abraham as a friend.

671 Say "Shall we call upon other than God what cannot benefit us or harm us, and we turn back on our heels after God has guided us?" This is like the one whom the devils have managed to mislead on Earth, he is confused, having friends who call him to the guidance "Come to us!" Say "The guidance is God's guidance, and we have been ORDERED to submit to the Lord of the worlds."

1072 "But if you turn away, then I have not asked you for any reward, for my reward is with God. And I have been COMMANDED to be of those who have submitted."

4066 Say "I have been forbidden from serving those whom you are calling upon besides God, since the proofs have come to me from my Lord. And I have been COMMANDED to submit to the Lord of the worlds."

Declaration of one's peaceful submission to Allah is done by saying "aslamtu li rabbil-3alameena" as per Abraham

2131 When his Lord said to him "Submit," he said "I submit to the Lord of the worlds ("aslamtu li rabbil-3alameena&quot."

One can also say "aslamtu wajhiya lillahi" (320) or "ishhadoo bi-anna muslimoona" (364) or "innanee minalmuslimeena" (4133) or "innee minalmuslimeena" (4615)

320 If they debate with you, then say "I have submitted myself to God ("aslamtu wajhiya lillahi&quot, as well as those who follow me." And say to those who have received the Scripture and the Gentiles "Have you submitted?" If they have submitted then they are guided, and if they turn away, then you are only to deliver, and God is watcher over the servants.

364 Say "O people of the Scripture, let us come to a common understanding between us and between you; that we do not serve except God, and do not set up anything at all with Him, and that none of us takes each other as patrons beside God." If they turn away, then say "Bear witness that we have submitted ("ishhadoo bi-anna muslimoona&quot."

4133 And who is better in saying than one who invites to God, and does good works, and says "I am one of those who have submitted ("innanee minalmuslimeena&quot."

4615 And We enjoined the human being to honor his parents. His mother bore him with hardship, gave birth to him in hardship, and his bearing and weaning lasts thirty months. So that, when he has reached his independence, and he has reached forty years, he says "My Lord, direct me to appreciate the blessings You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and to do righteousness that pleases You. And let my progeny be righteous. I have repented to You; I am of those who have submitted ("innee minalmuslimeena&quot."

When one attains faith, one can say "aamanna billahi waishhad bi-anna muslimoona"

352 So when Jesus felt their rejection, he said "Who are my supporters to God?" The disciples said "We are God's supporters, we believe in God and we bear witness that we have submitted ("aamanna billahi waishhad bi-anna muslimoona&quot."

unknownuser

Peace all,

Coming to the topic of this thread, I understand that the timed "al-salaat" of the muslimeen/mumineen/muttaqeen is not just "PRAYER" but much more than that; so to translate it just as "THE PRAYER" is not doing it justice.

Salaat is much more than just "praying" to God. In the Qur'aan the word used for prayer is "dua" and not "salaat". The timed al-salaat of the muslimeen includes reading and understanding the Qur'aan, remembering The God, glorifying/praising The God, and being humble and submissive/obedient to The God in addition to "dua". When we are reading with understanding certain passages from the Qur'aan which are "dua" to The God, we are also performing "dua"/prayer during al-salaat. Of course one can perform "dua" also after al-salaat and at any time of day or night.

A better translation for "al-salaat" in my opinion would be "the connection". This meaning of "connection" fits ALL the occurrences of various forms derived from the root "SLW"; what kind of connection would be determined by the context. For example, in the context of the timed al-salaat of the muslimeen, "the connection" = "commitment to read/study the words of The God, remember and glorify Him, be humble and submissive to Him, and pray to Him".

ImamQuranonly

As-Salaamu Alaika Tanveer,

Peace all,

I agree with brother Wakas.

Did you bother to read my replys to brother Wakas on those comments? See the following again

Quote from Wakas on April 15, 2007, 025059 PM
Your above article didn't have "salat" related content, and it had some statements that not what I would consider "Quran Only" (as your name suggests), e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

I thought it clearly had "salat" related content since it started with the name "What is As-Salaat", and then continued to give definitions for "salaat" and "aqeemus". Maybe since each and every ayat used did not contain a word that derived from the root of "salaat", you assume that this means they are not dealing with "salaat". That is one opinion. I tend to differ on that approach and see a connection of not only "root" words in Quran, but subject matter as well. So sometimes subject is connected simply through understanding and insight, sometimes by "root" words, and sometimes by both.

I understand your statement that you consider it had some statements in it that you don't consider Quran only, but that would be an "opinion" of yours, for surely those who know me and what I have gone through since accepting Quran only, know that I am not a "hadith, sunni,etc." follower in practising and understanding Islam. You may just not agree with the statement that I made, so therefore you consider it not "Quran only" material. Again, that would be an opinion, and to me any opinion is just that; only an opinion, as assumption. Opinion can not stand up against "haqq", because no matter what the circumstancial evidence is, "haqq" is unchangeable. So since Allah knows that I am Quran only, no misperception by anyone else could ever change that because it is haqq for "me".

Quote from Wakas on April 15, 2007, 025059 PM
e.g. "In Islam, Aqeemus Salaat is the most compulsory act, after the declaration of faith, the "shahadah"."

I understand your point here, yet I still chose to say it that way. Free will if you may. I understand that one can see many more important things to do in Al Islam if they don't believe that "salaat" is even a formal prayer ritual. That makes perfect sense to me. But I am speaking in general about rituals here, not all encompassing. The reader has to use his intellect to not assume that all statements that can be taken in totality are not necessarily meant to be so. Allah says in the Quran that the thinking or remembering of Him is greater, in comparison or contrast to Salaat as one of the criteria. In one aspect, the "shahadah", which later you will find out that I don't believe is what "sunnis, shias and others profess", to me is the initial step in remembering Allah. Without this understanding or declaration of Tawheed, how can one remember Allah correctly since their foundation would be corrupted? So this is first for me even before studying Quran, which by the way is what can lead you to "shahadah", a dilema I guess if you will.

Salaat on the other hand, if you believe it is a "ritual" given for us to perform in Quran, is indeed then the most performed "ritual" on a daily basis that all "mu'min" will do. Considering that all other acts of contemplation and remembering Allah will fall under "shahadah" in my limit context here, and that all good deeds done are not necessarily "rituals" but other actions, then that would make Salaat the second most important "ritual" based on its daily frequent performance.

I hope this makes sense. I know you will analysis better than most can or will. I look forward to our future dialogue with each other on varying subject matter of Al Quran.

As Salaamu Alaikum

So I think that your "assumption" of what I believe is the "shahada", without fully reading my response to Wakas as it appears based on your response; is the reason for your lengthy response here dealing with "shahada". If anything is off topic, this material is. The topic of the article is "What Is As-Salaat". Therefore I don't see a need to respond further to the material posted.

Further, it is not my intention to try to make a debate out of each and every related issue when making a specific point. I put the word "shahada" in quotations because of its various meanings to different groups. To me, this is part of the reason that many members here seem so unclear and lost about many issues to begin with. Insha Allah, we will all be guided better to the truth and clarity. You would only find out that I agree with most of what you wrote about "shahada"; and I hope that it would not be a disappointment to you because then there is nothing to debate about.

As-Salaamu Alaikum, peace

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaikum,

Peace all,

Coming to the topic of this thread, I understand that the timed "al-salaat" of the muslimeen/mumineen/muttaqeen is not just "PRAYER" but much more than that; so to translate it just as "THE PRAYER" is not doing it justice.

Salaat is much more than just "praying" to God. In the Qur'aan the word used for prayer is "dua" and not "salaat". The timed al-salaat of the muslimeen includes reading and understanding the Qur'aan, remembering The God, glorifying/praising The God, and being humble and submissive/obedient to The God in addition to "dua". When we are reading with understanding certain passages from the Qur'aan which are "dua" to The God, we are also performing "dua"/prayer during al-salaat. Of course one can perform "dua" also after al-salaat and at any time of day or night.

A better translation for "al-salaat" in my opinion would be "the connection". This meaning of "connection" fits ALL the occurrences of various forms derived from the root "SLW"; what kind of connection would be determined by the context. For example, in the context of the timed al-salaat of the muslimeen, "the connection" = "commitment to read/study the words of The God, remember and glorify Him, be humble and submissive to Him, and pray to Him".

I agree with what you said about "dua" meaning prayer also of course. In the book I deal with this and other concepts of "prayer" in detail.

But by your understanding of "The Prayer", you have limited the definition to what "others" do or understand in their method of prayer. Prayer has many wide connotations in the world within different religions. It is accepted as a general term across many religions to denote what you are calling a "connection" with The God. Yet if you use this word "connection" instead of "prayer", I dont think that the meaning is conveyed as well when describing it. I don't have a problem calling it a "connection", because it is. But we are playing semantics and it is not necessary to come to a better understanding of "As-Salaat". The proper term is "As-Salaat" and neither "The Prayer" or "The Connection" are adequate translations of it to english. Either term would have to be described to the listener if one is talking to someone that is not already familiar with it. IMHO, "The Connection" would cause the most initial confusion, but that is just me. I am not arguing for which word should be used in translation, I think it is a person's personal choice since it is only a translation anyway. Understanding the term, its procedure and function are what's important, not having an agreed upon translation of one word only.

IMHO, sometimes I feel that many here lose the importance of a topic to make points of argument or debate that have no real significance to the understanding of an issue. With that being said, "words" are still important, for words are what minds think in and words make people.

As Salaamu Alaikum, peace

unknownuser

Salaamun alaika brother IQO,

Although this is off-topic but needs to be clarified !

Firstly, I am not trying to debate this issue at this time, just trying to express my understanding according to al-qur'aan, as I feel (perhaps mistakenly) that it is different from your understanding.

Secondly, judging from your post, I think you did not get the point I was trying to make. Perhaps I had not been clear in my earlier post. So let me rephrase

In one aspect, the "shahadah", which later you will find out that I don't believe is what "sunnis, shias and others profess", to me is the initial step in remembering Allah. Without this understanding or declaration of Tawheed, how can one remember Allah correctly since their foundation would be corrupted?

To remove any confusion, can you please state the exact wordings of what you mean by "shahada" ?

It appears from your quote that, according to you, "shahada" is declaration of tawheed. Linguistically, however, "shahada" means "witnessing/testifying", and in the context of tawheed, it will be witnessing/testifying tawheed, not declaring it.

I do agree that DECLARATION and BELIEF of tawheed is extremely important. Declaration of tawheed would be as follows

LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA WAHDAHU LA SHAREEKA LAH.

Or simply

LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA

This is NOT SHAHADA, but DECLARATION, and BELIEF in this declaration is more important than making it !

SHAHADA of tawheed (witnessing/testifying of tawheed) would be as follows

ASHHADU AN LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA WAHDAHU LA SHAREEKA LAH.

Or simply

ASHHADU AN LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA

The shahada of tawheed CANNOT BE THE MOST IMPORTANT because per 318, it is required only from THOSE WITH KNOWLEDGE, not from everyone.

More important than shahada of tawheed would be the following "SHAHADA"

"AAMANNA BILLAAHI WA ISHHAD BI ANNA MUSLIMOONA" (352)

or the following DECLARATIONS

"aslamtu li rabbil-3alameena" (2131)

"aslamtu wajhiya lillaahi" (320)

"innanee minalmuslimeena" (4133)

"innee minalmuslimeena" (4615)

The reason they are more important is because they are meant for EVERYONE, not just for those with knowledge.

ACTING on these declarations would actually be MORE IMPORTANT than making them !

Hope I have clarified my understanding this time !

Salaamun alaika

ImamQuranonly

As Salaamu Alaika Tanveer,

My understanding is pretty much the same as yours without going more deeply into the topic, in which case it still could be the same. I put "shahada" in parenthesis so as to indicate its subjective definition without having to go into that topic at this point in detail. Personally my favorite is "Aslamtu lirabbil aalameen". (Forgive the transliteration if it is not perfect). I believe that "laa illahi ilalaah", only states that their is only one God, but submitting to Him is more important than recognizing Him. He doesn't need our recognition, and submitting to Him is for our own benefit. But I got your points, and agree with most of them if not all. I didn't read as thoroughly because I don't see it as part of As Salaat and I was simply trying to keep focused. But I still think that what you brought up is an extremely important topic.

As-Salaamu Alaikum, peace

Salaamun alaika brother IQO,

Although this is off-topic but needs to be clarified !

Firstly, I am not trying to debate this issue at this time, just trying to express my understanding according to al-qur'aan, as I feel (perhaps mistakenly) that it is different from your understanding.

Secondly, judging from your post, I think you did not get the point I was trying to make. Perhaps I had not been clear in my earlier post. So let me rephrase

To remove any confusion, can you please state the exact wordings of what you mean by "shahada" ?

It appears from your quote that, according to you, "shahada" is declaration of tawheed. Linguistically, however, "shahada" means "witnessing/testifying", and in the context of tawheed, it will be witnessing/testifying tawheed, not declaring it.

I do agree that DECLARATION and BELIEF of tawheed is extremely important. Declaration of tawheed would be as follows

LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA WAHDAHU LA SHAREEKA LAH.

Or simply

LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA

This is NOT SHAHADA, but DECLARATION, and BELIEF in this declaration is more important than making it !

SHAHADA of tawheed (witnessing/testifying of tawheed) would be as follows

ASHHADU AN LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA WAHDAHU LA SHAREEKA LAH.

Or simply

ASHHADU AN LA ILAHA ILLALLAAHA

The shahada of tawheed CANNOT BE THE MOST IMPORTANT because per 318, it is required only from THOSE WITH KNOWLEDGE, not from everyone.

More important than shahada of tawheed would be the following "SHAHADA"

"AAMANNA BILLAAHI WA ISHHAD BI ANNA MUSLIMOONA" (352)

or the following DECLARATIONS

"aslamtu li rabbil-3alameena" (2131)

"aslamtu wajhiya lillaahi" (320)

"innanee minalmuslimeena" (4133)

"innee minalmuslimeena" (4615)

The reason they are more important is because they are meant for EVERYONE, not just for those with knowledge.

ACTING on these declarations would actually be MORE IMPORTANT than making them !

Hope I have clarified my understanding this time !

Salaamun alaika

unknownuser

As Salaamu Alaykum Wa Rahmatullah

I'm sorry brother Quranonly that it took me a little longer then expected to reply. It is said, "Life stops for no one." How right that is.
I read the excerpts from your book. I have also read some of the other posts online as well as other forums and websites.
Frankly within this movement, if one should favor to call it so, I've seen alot for which concern is warranted. For the last 1300 years, al Diynul Islaam has been as a dusky jewel. Covered with the various opinions of generations of scholars, the various madhabs, the fatwas, and of course needless to mention thousands of baseless/genuine hadith obscurred the beauty of Submission. After Rashad Khalifa came and from 1974 onwards, the traditional understanding and theological framework of Ahlus Sunnah Islam has slowly eroded. We find ourselves here in the present era of this movement, this Quran alone restoration of Islam.
Fortunately, we find ourselves in the information age where data streams travel thousands of miles a minute and connect people from Los Angeles to Lahore, Boston to Bangladesh. Alhamdulillah for that. Yet, unfortunately, the internet has allowed alot of mentally unstable individuals, opportunists, and for lack of a better description lifeless losers to pour into this common well any opinion they find suitable.
These days we have among the muslims, individuals who speak no arabic, individuals who have not gone through the rigorous labors of studying al arabiyyatul fusha min al quran, nor through any theological training acting as internet imams disseminating fatwas all over the place. Individuals denouncing other individuals as incorrect who could not read nor understand the Arabic in modern arabic, yet alone Classical arabic and relying on Lane Arabic Lexicons and internet arabic dictionaries.
An essential piece of information, a comprehensive understanding, is lacking in today's Quran alone movement Islam is a system (319, 85; 53 see below)

This day have I perfected for you your religion and completed My favor on you and chosen for you Islam as a din(system).
T
he word Din is the semitic root for legal action, judgment, court. Islam has certain laws to be followed, certain manasik (observances) to be upheld. These are not up for debate, nor compromise. They are what they are.
What most muslims have also forgotten, is why the Quran was revealed. Allah says

And We have not revealed to you the Book except that you may make clear to them that about which they differ, ind (as) a guidance and a mercy for a people who believe. (1664)

Having laid the groundwork as to how I approach questionable subjects in the light of Al Quran, here is my answer

I applaud your effort to approach the Salat question and seek a clear answer from the Quran. I also appreciate the time and effort put into your work. I found seveal pieces of your presentation interesting, and I am restudying the 3 salat question as a result. Having said that, I disagree on several points

a) Allah says in the Quraan

Recite that which has been revealed to you of the Book and keep up prayer; surely prayer keeps (one) away from indecency and evil, and certainly the remembrance of Allah is the greatest, and Allah knows what you do. Qur 2945

It is this verse for which most Quran alone Muslims/submitters derive the justification to change the standard pattern of salaat and devise new methods of salaat drawn from the Quran alone. The problem with this understanding is they don't read the next verse

And do not dispute with the followers of the Book except by what is best, except those of them who act unjustly, and say We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you, and our God and your God is One, and to Him do we submit. 2946

It is being propagated to take your words from the Quran alone based on the word "wa" which connects the two thoughts "Atlu M 'iya 'Ilayka Mina Al-Kitbi" and "Wa 'Aqimu A-alata". If that is so, and we use the same logic applied tehn we must also admit the thought "Wa L Tujdil 'Ahla Al-Kitbi 'Ill Bi-At Hiya 'Asanu 'Ill Al-Ladhna ?alam Minhum (And do not dispute with the followers of the Book except by what is best, except those of them who act unjustly) is also a part of Salaat.

Also the following verse is used
Keep up prayer from the declining of the sun till the darkness of the night and the morning recitation; surely the morning recitation is witnessed. 1778
(in transliteration 'Aqimi A-alata Lidulki Ash-Shamsi 'Il? Ghasaqi Al-Layli Wa Qur'na Al-Fajri 'Inna Qur'na Al-Fajri Kna Mash/hdan )

And it is therefore postulated that since the term qurana al-fajri is used in conjunction with the salatul fajr then that also means salat is to be derived solely from the Quran. What is ignored however is that like all arabic words, even quran has a meaning
In Arabic, the word qur'n means "reading" or "recitation". Grammatically, it is the verbal noun (madar) of the Arabic verb qara'a " read" or " recited". The word qur?n may convey the meaning, not merely of reading or recitation, but of diligent reading or recitation, because the vocalic template (wazn &#1606 of the word is the fu'ln form, which indicates excessiveness, diligence or devotion in doing the act. (Compare the verb ghafara ?to forgive?, whose verbal noun, ghufrn , also in the fu'ln form, means an excessive or diligent act of forgiveness.)

In the Qur'an, the word "qur'n" can have the generic sense of "reading", "recital", as in 7518

And when We read it, follow thou the reading (Pickthall's translation)

So translating the Quran at dawn, as the progressive muslims are want to do, while an acceptable translation is not the only translation. The translation of the "morning recitation", or the reciting of the salat at dawn flows much better in the context of the verse and the overall context of Quran. Even if we agree that it means to recite the Quran at dawn, then that is also satisfied in the recitation of Suwratul Fatiha in the salaat.

b) As Islam is a system, Salaat is one of its laws. The modern progressive muslims and Quran alone muslims who take the stand that every word of our practice must be derived from the Quran alone are ignorant of certain realities. One of those is that Muhammad is commanded in the 3rd chapter revealed (73 in today's uthmani division) to
...and keep up prayer and pay the poor-rate and offer to Allah a goodly gift, and whatever of good you send on beforehand for yourselves, you will find it with Allah; that is best and greatest in reward; and ask forgiveness of Allah; surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. 7320

Now this was the third chapter revealed after Suwrah 96 (Al Alaq) and Suwrah 68 (Al Qalam) neither one of which contain a detailed manner or description of how to make Salaat. So where did Muhammad learn how to make Salaat? The Submitters say It was handed down from Abraham (835; 954; 16123; 2173; 2227; 2827 among many verses). They postulate that the salaat was handed down word for word from a Chaldean named Abram (who spoke Akkadian at a time when arabic didn't exist yet) all the way to Muhammad, and that he cleaned up a few messes the Quraish made along the way. They neglect, however this verse

But if you are in danger, then (say your prayers) on foot or on horseback; and when you are secure, then remember Allah, as. He has taught you what you did not know. 2259

So if they, and at this time Muhammad was still in Makkah among the Quraish, didn't know the Salaat that blows the whole Submitter idea out of the water (and casts some serious doubt on the traditional understanding of those verses).

Yet if we go back to the verse from the begining

And We have not revealed to you the Book except that you may make clear to them that about which they differ, ind (as) a guidance and a mercy for a people who believe. (1664)

We get a better picture. The basic structure of Salaat existed from Abraham's time down (as can be found in many places through out the bible on how the old testament prophets prayed Standing, bowing, prostrating). The two descendants of Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac, took with them the practices of their father (one becoming judaism, the other the basis for the practices of Islam). When Muhammad came he was taught by Allah (see above) how to properly perform it and how to purify it

How to perform ablution (443;56)
What Qiblah to face (2142-150)
What tone of voice to use (17110)
What is the order of the Salaat (4101-103)
When not to and how to approach the Salaat (443)
When in abnormal circumstances (2239)
In what units to perform the Salaat (4101; 3446)
Certain additions/reformations (such as al fatiha 1587; what to say in sujjud 17107-111)
Additional adiya (duas) to be performed after Salaat (3191-194;4103)
Additional spiritual practices (Al Tahajjud)

Allah corrected that "in which they differ" and set it straight. That being said, the basic structure of Salaat was kept in place.

c) lastly Allah has warned us

And be not like those who became divided and disagreed after clear arguments had come to them, and these it is that shall have a grievous chastisement. 3105

and

Surely they who divided their religion into parts and became sects, you have no concern with them; their affair is only with Allah, then He will inform them of what they did. 6159

and

But they cut off their religion among themselves into sects, each part rejoicing in that which is with them.

Therefore leave them in their overwhelming ignorance till 353-54

As quran alone muslims, quranists, submitters, tolu-e-islam, progressive muslims, ahlul quran, and countless others are either starting to do or are actually doing spllitting into different camps drawn along separate understandings. They are doing as Allah had mentioned

Or have you a book wherein you read,

That you have surely therein what you choose? 6837-38

By each of us
a) pulling verses out of context
b) picking and choosing how we are going to observe and what are we going to observe
c) telling others that our manner of observance is right or argiung that another's is wrong
d) naming ourselves into groups
e) drawing up membeship lists and constitutions

We are becoming new sects and schisms and inventing our own Islam (Astaghfirullah).

In conclusion

To ImamQuranOnly while I humbly respect your work, I disagree with it.
To we muslims as a whole let us stick to the manner for which Allah has given us to solve disputes consensus. Lets not be like the jews and christians and countless other nations who went astray seeking after their own wants and understandings.

As Salaamu Alaykum
Your brother in Islam Abdul Latif