Saudi King Salman bin AbdulazizImage Credit source: Bandar Algaloud / Saudi Arabia’s royal council / Handout/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

While the process of cloud seeding (artificial rain) was done for rain this year in Delhi so that pollution could be reduced and moisture could be brought in the weather, in Saudi Arabia, prayers with 13 Takbirs have been ordered for rain. King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia has ordered to offer special prayer Salatul Istisqa across the country on 12 November. However, this is not the first time, such orders have been coming frequently.

This namaz will be offered simultaneously across the Kingdom on Thursday, 12 November. There are 13 Takbirs in this two Rakat Namaz. Takbir i.e. Allahu-Akbar is said in a loud voice during Namaz. In this Namaz, first Takbeer is said 7 times together and then Takbeer is said 6 times together. It has been told in the statement of the Royal Court that this Namaz will be offered according to the Sunnah of Hazrat Mohammad, in which prayers are prayed to Allah for mercy and rain. Also, an appeal has been made to the citizens and residents to repent, istighfar, do good deeds and turn towards Allah.

What is Istiska Namaz with 13 Takbirs?

The prayer with 13 takbirs, which is called Istiska prayer, is of two rak’ahs. In this, 7 Takbeers are said in the first Raka’at and 6 Takbeers are said in the second Raka’at. That means a total of 13 Takbirs. During the prayer, in the first rak’ah the Imam says Allahu Akbar seven times and usually recites Surah Al-Aala (The Most High). In the second Rak’ah, six Takbirs are said and then Surah Al-Gashiya (The Overwhelming) is recited. After the completion of the namaz, the Imam gives a Khutba (sermon) and at the end, through a prayer, a request for rain and mercy from Allah is made.

What is the tradition and importance of this namaz?

Istiska prayer is considered a special spiritual and community practice in Islam. It is paid when there is no rain or drought in an area for a long time. This is not only a prayer for rain but also a symbol of man showing humility and gratitude before Allah. Its religious and social importance increases even more in a desert country like Saudi Arabia.

When drought increased, Namaz became the path of hope

According to the statement of the Royal Court, this order of King Salman has come at a time when there is a situation of prolonged drought and irregular rainfall in many parts of the Kingdom. According to climate studies, the interval between rainy seasons has increased in recent years, raising concerns about environmental imbalance. Therefore, Istiska Namaz is being considered not just as a religious tradition, but as a way of bringing awareness towards nature and bringing people together.