Seventh Condition of Salaah: Niyyah

Q. What is niyyah?

A. Niyyah is to intend something heartily.

Q. What should be the will in niyyah for the prayer?

A. It is necessary to name the namaaz one wants to say. For example, for Fajr Fard prayers today, intend that you are performing Fajr Fard of today. For qadaa prayers, state the day and type. If praying behind an Imaam, intend that you are praying behind him. Most importantly, have a clear understanding of your action.

Q. What about expressing the niyyah in words?

A. It is mustahab (recommended) to say it verbally. If one does not, there is no harm, but expressing it is better.

Q. What is the niyyah for nafl prayers?

A. Saying “I am saying nafl salaah” is sufficient. The same applies to sunnah or taraaweeh prayers.