How to Pray Maghrib: Rakats and Step-by-Step Guide
Quick Answer
Maghrib (sunset prayer) is 5 rakats: 3 fard + 2 sunnah, with the fard prayed first. In the fard, Al-Fatiha + a surah are recited in the first two rakats (aloud in congregation) and Al-Fatiha only in the third. Its time begins at sunset and it is recommended to pray it without delay.
Step-by-Step Summary
- 1Fard β First Two Rakats: Intend today's Maghrib fard. Subhanaka (first rakat) β Al-Fatiha β surah; aloud in congregation. Only At-Tahiyyat in the sitting after the second rakat.
- 2Fard β Third Rakat: Al-Fatiha only β bow β prostrations β full final sitting β salam.
- 3Sunnah β 2 Rakats: Pray 2 rakats like the fajr sunnah and give salam.
The Maghrib Prayer
Maghrib is the fourth obligatory prayer and the only one whose fard is 3 rakats. Total: 3 fard + 2 sunnah = 5. Its time enters with iftar β see prayer times.
| Part | Rakats | Ruling |
|---|---|---|
| Fard | 3 | Obligatory |
| Sunnah | 2 | Emphasized sunnah |
The 3-Rakat Fard
- First two rakats: Subhanaka (first rakat) β Al-Fatiha β surah β aloud in congregation.
- Sitting after the second rakat: only At-Tahiyyat.
- Third rakat: Al-Fatiha only β full final sitting (Salli-Barik + Rabbana) β salam.
The 2-Rakat Sunnah
Prayed like the fajr sunnah, followed by the post-prayer tasbih.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many rakats is Maghrib?
5 in total: 3 fard and 2 sunnah. The fard comes first; it is the only prayer whose fard is three rakats.
When is Maghrib time?
It begins at sunset (the moment of iftar) and ends when Isha enters. Praying it early, without delay, is recommended.
Is a surah recited in the third rakat?
No. In the third and fourth rakats of fard prayers only Al-Fatiha is recited; the prayer is still valid if one is added by mistake.
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