A prayer taking place in one of the Kuwaiti mosques

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 8: In accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him), the Ministry of Islamic Affairs opened the doors of mosques Saturday morning for worshippers to perform the Istisqa prayer to ask for rain. The prayer was held in 125 mosques in various governorates. During the prayer, worshippers supplicated to Allah Almighty, asking for rain and praying that He will bless the country with security, safety and prosperity.

Meanwhile, Undersecretary of the Ministry Dr. Suleiman Al- Suwailem conducted an inspection visit to the Grand Mosque to personally look into the ongoing preparations to ensure the readiness of the facilities and services, in addition to addressing the most pressing technical and administrative issues to serve the mosque visitors better. The Grand Mosque Administration director and several other officials warmly welcomed Al- Suwailem, presenting the measures taken to prepare the facilities and develop the service system. They also provided an overview of the work progress and plans for upcoming religious events. Al-Suwailem emphasized the importance of raising the level of preparedness and providing a comprehensive environment to guarantee the comfort of worshippers.

He stressed the need to continue working to the highest quality standards, reflecting the ministry's mission and its role in serving the houses of Allah. It is worth noting that the prayer for rain (Istisqa) is performed when drought occurs and there is a dire need for water for humans, animals and plants. It is a confirmed Sunnah (recommended practice) performed by an Imam. It consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer) -- the first begins with seven takbirs (saying “Allahu Akbar”) and the last with five. After the prayer, the Imam delivers a sermon, then supplicates, raising his hands along with the worshippers to the Creator, asking Him— may His power be glorified—for relief and rain for His servants and all living beings.

By Mohammad Al-Enezi Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff