Namaz-e-Chasht, also referred to as Salat ad-Duha, is one of the most spiritually rewarding voluntary prayers in Islam. This prayer is performed in the forenoon, starting approximately 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise until just before the Dhuhr prayer. It is a form of gratitude, submission, and remembrance of Allah. Deeply rooted in the Sunnah, it was regularly practiced by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and highly praised in various authentic Hadith collections.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Other Name | Salat ad-Duha (صلاة الضحى) |
| Status | Nafl (Voluntary) |
| Timing | 15–20 minutes after sunrise to ~10 minutes before Dhuhr |
| Minimum Rak‘ahs | 2 |
| Maximum Rak‘ahs | 8 to 12 |
What Is Namaz-e-Chasht?
Namaz-e-Chasht is a forenoon prayer prescribed by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for those who wish to earn Allah's pleasure and abundant reward. It is an expression of thankfulness for the body's joints and limbs, which serve us daily. This salah also serves as a bridge between morning and afternoon acts of worship.
“In the morning, every one of your joints must perform a charity. Every Tasbeeh is a charity, every Tahmeed is a charity, every Tahleel is a charity, every Takbeer is a charity... and all of this is fulfilled by two Rak‘ahs one offers in Duha.”
Sahih Muslim 720
This Hadith underscores how just two Rak‘ahs of this prayer are spiritually equivalent to performing hundreds of acts of charity. The word ‘Duha’ in Arabic translates to 'mid-morning', which indicates its time of performance.
Timing of Salat ad-Duha
According to scholarly consensus, the time for Salat ad-Duha begins about 15–20 minutes after sunrise and continues until approximately 10 minutes before the Dhuhr prayer. The ideal time is when the heat of the sun increases slightly, symbolizing the forenoon period.
“The prayer of the penitent is when the feet of the young camels begin to burn from the heat of the sun.”
Sahih Muslim 748
This metaphorical Hadith indicates that the best time is not immediately after sunrise, but slightly later in the morning when the sun gains intensity. This further emphasizes that the prayer has its most spiritually rewarding window closer to mid-morning.
- Wait 15–20 minutes after the sun has completely risen.
- Ensure you are in a state of Wudu (ablution).
- Make the intention (Niyyah) for Salat ad-Duha.
- Pray two Rak‘ahs at minimum; you may add more in multiples of two.
- Perform each Rak‘ah like any standard prayer: Surah Al-Fatiha + another Surah, Ruku, Sujood, etc.
How Many Rak‘ahs Should Be Prayed?
The number of Rak‘ahs for Namaz-e-Chasht is flexible. The minimum is 2 Rak‘ahs, but scholars and authentic Hadith suggest praying 4, 6, 8, or even up to 12 Rak‘ahs. Each 2 Rak‘ahs should be performed separately.
“Whoever consistently prays four Rak‘ahs of Duha, Allah will suffice him for his needs for the entire day.”
Musnad Ahmad 16814
This Hadith illustrates the immense worldly and spiritual benefits that come from this prayer. It ensures divine help, sustenance, and protection throughout the day.
Virtues of Namaz-e-Chasht
- Forgiveness of sins: Allah forgives past minor sins for the one who performs this prayer with sincerity.
- Substitute for constant charity: 360 acts of charity can be fulfilled by two Rak‘ahs of Duha prayer.
- Protection from misguidance: Regular performance brings one closer to Allah and strengthens Imaan.
- Reward equal to Umrah: Some scholars state that early morning Duha prayer is equal in reward to performing an Umrah, based on narrations.
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Qur’anic Perspective on Duha
While the Qur'an does not mention Namaz-e-Chasht explicitly, it mentions the time of Duha in various places which emphasizes its significance.
“By the morning brightness (Duha)...”
Surah Ad-Duhaa (93:1)
Scholars interpret this oath taken by Allah in Surah Ad-Duhaa as a strong indicator of the sacredness and importance of the Duha time period. Allah does not swear by anything without it having significance.
Who Prayed Namaz-e-Chasht?
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ not only advised the Ummah to pray this Salah, but he also practiced it himself regularly. Some of his companions would observe it so consistently that it became their daily habit.
“It was narrated that Aisha said: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to pray Duha with four Rak‘ahs, and more as Allah willed.”
Sahih Muslim 719
We also find that Abu Huraira (RA), a prominent companion, said:
“My close friend (the Prophet ﷺ) advised me to do three things: to fast three days of every month, to pray Duha, and to pray Witr before sleeping.”
Sahih Bukhari 1178
This clearly demonstrates that Namaz-e-Chasht was a consistent Sunnah that Prophet ﷺ loved and recommended for others.
Can Women Pray Namaz-e-Chasht?
Yes, absolutely. There is no restriction in Shariah that prevents women from offering Salat ad-Duha. In fact, many women companions of the Prophet ﷺ were known to observe it, especially at home. Women can perform this prayer after completing their morning responsibilities or when they find some peace during the day. The reward is equally applicable to both men and women.
Difference Between Chasht and Ishraq
Some people confuse Namaz-e-Chasht with Salat al-Ishraq. While both are performed in the morning, there is a difference in timing and intention:
| Aspect | Salat al-Ishraq | Salat ad-Duha (Chasht) |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | 15–20 minutes after sunrise | Mid-morning to before Dhuhr |
| Rak‘ahs | 2 | 2 to 12 (in pairs) |
| Reward | Like performing Umrah (per Hadith) | Charity for every joint in body |
Dua After Namaz-e-Chasht
There is no prescribed or fixed Du‘a to be recited after Namaz-e-Chasht. However, believers are encouraged to ask Allah for guidance, forgiveness, sustenance, and protection. Since it is a time of tranquility and blessing, any heartfelt Du‘a is likely to be accepted.
“O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, strengthen me, guide me, and provide for me.”
Abu Dawud 1480
Can I pray Namaz-e-Chasht at work?
Yes, as long as you have a clean space and Wudu. It can be prayed silently during break time.
Is Salat ad-Duha mentioned in the Quran?
While the specific Salah is not named, Allah swears by Duha in Surah Ad-Duhaa which refers to the sacred morning time.
How long does Namaz-e-Chasht take?
Just two Rak‘ahs can be completed in 5–10 minutes. Additional Rak‘ahs can be added as time allows.
