Establishing Salat and Household Work
Question:
I have a 9 month old daughter who tires me; I am out of the house for 12hrs (6am – 6pm), I have chores to do when I come home, my husband is out of town for several months, my mother – who lives with me- is a big help but she can only do so much, I don’t get enough sleep….and lately I have been slacking in my prayers. I feel so lazy and at the same time I fear Allah – yet I am unable to perform my prayers. I always find time to do all the house chores regardless of how tired I am but when it comes to prayers, I am lazy. I know it’s no excuse. However, I wanted you to give me advice as to how I can stop myself from driving myself to the wrong path.
Answer:
The importance of Salat for a believer is something that is known to all. It is the second fundamental pillar of Islam. The Qur’an and Sunnah have greatly emphasized the observance of Salat.
Allah Most High says:
“O Prophet (may Allah bless him & give him peace): Say to My servants who believe, that they should establish prayers.” (Surah Ibrahim, 31)
And:
“And establish prayers and pay Zakat and bow down with those who bow.” Surah al-Baqarah, 43)
Sayyiduna Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said, “Between a man and disbelief is the abandonment of Salat (prayer).” (Sahih Muslim)
Salat (prayer) is by far the most important thing for a Muslim. It will be the first aspect that will be reckoned on the Day of Judgment. It is a distinctive sign of a believer. It creates that unique relationship between the servant and his/her Creator.
Therefore, your first and foremost priority must be your Salat. If you are slackening due to tiredness and the abundance of the household work, then you must do something to change that. Discuss with your husband ways that may bring about a change.
It would be wise that your husband finds a job that is within your town, so he could also help and assist you in domestic work. He can also take his share in upbringing and looking after the child. Ask him in a gentle and polite manner to help you with your domestic duties.
You may also consider cutting short your hours of work. You mention that you become tired because you work 12 hours a day, then you should look into shortening this duration. It is surely very difficult to work for that amount of time out side the house and then come home and carry out all the domestic work.
One should always remember that to forego religious injunctions in order to accumulate worldly possessions is too higher of a price to pay. One must always adhere to the laws of Islam, even if that means facing hardships in this world. This world is temporary, and the hereafter is eternal. One’s main objective should be the pleasures of the hereafter and not this world.
Finally, turn to Allah Almighty with full devotion and sincerity, for it is only through His help that the servant is able to overcome difficulties. Supplicate to Him and ask Him to make it easy for you to establish Salat in a manner that is most pleasing to Him, for surely, He answers the prayers of those who turn to Him.
May Allah Almighty keep us all steadfast on his Deen and that we pass away from this world in the state of Iman, Ameen,
And Allah Knows Best
[Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam
Darul Iftaa
Leicester , UK