Muslims Across the Country to Perform Salat al-Istisqa Amid Ongoing Dry Weather

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Qatar’s Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has called on Muslims across the country to perform a rain-prayer (Salat al-Istisqa) on Thursday, as the nation experiences a prolonged dry weather.

The prayer, a practice with deep roots in Islamic tradition, is scheduled for 6:04 am at 124 mosques and prayer grounds nationwide. It dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who led similar prayers seeking divine relief during periods of drought.

This ritual serves as a spiritual appeal for rain and is typically performed collectively when rainfall is scarce, reflecting a longstanding cultural and religious approach to coping with environmental challenges.

In a statement on Wednesday, Awqaf urged participants to approach the prayer with humility, highlighting acts believed to encourage the acceptance of supplication, including sincere repentance, restitution of rights, fasting, and giving charity.

The ministry also referenced Quranic verses and a hadith that underscore the value of fasting and charity, advising worshippers to wear simple clothing, avoid adornment, and demonstrate modesty and spiritual need before God.

Awqaf is an Islamic endowment of property or funds dedicated permanently to religious or charitable purposes.

Source: Gulf Times