Is it more virtuous to perform prayers slowly?

​ - Is it more virtuous to perform prayers more slowly?
- If yes, why?
- What is meant by performing prayers slowly?

Dear Brother / Sister,

What is meant by performing prayers slowly is as follows:

- To perform prayers in compliance with its fards, wajibs, sunnahs and manners mentioned in fiqh. 

- To read the chapter of al-Fatiha and additional chapters and verses without skipping any letters or words and in accordance with the manners of qiraah.

- To read slowly in a way to pronounce the words clearly even if one does not know their meanings.

- To act in accordance with tadil al-arkan while standing, in ruku’ and prostration.

- To be aware of the fact that one is in the presence of Allah in the acts of the prayer and in reading.

“The meaning of the prayers is the offering of glorification, praise, and thanks to Almighty Allah.

That is to say, uttering “Glory be to Allah” by word and action before Allah’s glory and sublimity, it is to hallow and worship Him

And declaring “Allah is Most Great” through word and act before His sheer perfection, it is to exalt and magnify Him.

And saying “All praise be to Allah” with the heart, tongue, and body, it is to offer thanks before His utter beauty.

That is to say, glorification, exaltation, and praise are like the seeds of the prayers.

That is why these three things are present in every part of the prayers, in all the actions and words.

It is also why these blessed words are each repeated thirty-three times after the prayers, in order to strengthen and reiterate the prayers’ meaning. The meaning of the prayers is confirmed through these concise summaries.” (Nursi, Sözler, 40 )

- The realization of those meanings of the prayer is possible through glorifying, sanctifying and exalting Allah by the person who prays in his words and deeds. It can be achieved by performing the prayer in a good order, reading correctly and properly, being in a position to offer glorification, sanctification, exaltation and thanks. This occurs by performing the prayer slowly.   

- Besides, if a person hurries in his words and deeds, his consciousness related to being in the presence of Allah will be harmed. Things will continue in heedlessness, which is contrary to the spirit of prayer.

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