The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques calls for prayers for rain to be held next Thursday
The Saudi Royal Court issued an important statement today, announcing that the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud - may God protect and preserve him - has called for the performance of the Istisqa’ prayer throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, on Thursday, the 24th of Sha’ban, 1447 AH, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar.
Details of the royal invitation and the revival of the Prophet's Sunnah
The statement issued by the Royal Court explained that this call is in accordance with the tradition of our Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, who would hasten to prayer and supplication when rain was delayed. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques urged all Muslims in the Kingdom to be diligent in performing this prayer, emphasizing the importance of humility before God Almighty and earnestly supplicating for His mercy and rain.
King Salman, may God protect him, called on everyone to increase their repentance and seek forgiveness, to return to God Almighty, and to be kind to His servants, as showing compassion to people and relieving their distress are among the greatest means of receiving divine mercy. The statement also emphasized the importance of increasing voluntary acts of worship, such as giving charity, performing prayers, and reciting supplications, so that God may grant us relief and facilitate what we hope for.
The importance of the prayer for rain and its place in Islamic law
The prayer for rain (Istisqa') is a confirmed Sunnah (recommended practice) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is performed when people, animals, and the land are in need of water and rainfall is withheld. It consists of two rak'ahs (units of prayer) performed in congregation in prayer halls and mosques. The imam recites aloud, followed by a sermon in which he admonishes the people, urging them to repent and abandon sins. He then turns his cloak inside out as a symbolic gesture of hope for a change from drought to prosperity.
This ritual carries profound religious significance, demonstrating the servant's helplessness and constant need for his Lord, and reminding him that sustenance comes from God alone. It also reinforces the values of social solidarity by encouraging charity and benevolence as avenues for divine provision.
Historical depth and official interest in the Kingdom
Since its founding by King Abdulaziz – may God have mercy on him – the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been committed to officially and regularly observing this Sunnah (Prophetic tradition). The Kingdom's leaders give great attention to the performance of this ritual, providing guidance and support. Princes and officials lead the congregations in various regions, reflecting the Islamic identity of the state and its adherence to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah in times of ease and hardship.
These continuous royal calls for the performance of the prayer for rain are a constant reminder to society of the need to return to God and renew the covenant with Him, especially in light of climatic and environmental changes, as turning to the Creator remains the first refuge for believers.
We ask God Almighty to answer the prayers of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and all Muslims, and to have mercy on the country and its people, and to make what He sends down a mercy and a blessing for a time. He is the All-Hearing, the Responsive.
