What is the Asr Prayer?
The Asr prayer is the third of the five obligatory daily prayers in Islam and is called "salat al-asr" in Arabic. The word "asr" lexically means "the afternoon hour," "time," "century," and "era," and it is also the name of a chapter (Surah al-Asr) in the Holy Qur'an. The Asr prayer is performed during the time period that begins when the time of the Dhuhr prayer ends and continues until sunset. This prayer symbolizes the beginning of the second half of the day and is an important act of worship that allows Muslims to maintain their devotional life in the afternoon.
The place of the Asr prayer in Islam is extremely significant. In the Holy Qur'an, Surah al-Baqarah, Verse 238, it is stated: "Maintain the prayers and the middle prayer (salat al-wusta). Stand before Allah in devout obedience." Many commentators (mufassirun) have noted that the term "salat al-wusta" (the middle prayer) mentioned in the verse refers to the Asr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) confirmed this interpretation by saying: "The middle prayer (salat al-wusta) is the Asr prayer" (Muslim, Masajid, 205; Tirmidhi, Tafsir, 3). This special emphasis demonstrates that the Asr prayer holds a distinct position among the other prayers.
Throughout history, in Islamic civilization the Asr time has been regarded as the end of the second great segment of daily activity. In Ottoman society, the Asr time was known as the period when the bazaar would begin to slow down, tradesmen would settle their accounts, and the day's reckoning would take place. Today as well, the Asr prayer preserves its quality of being a prayer performed toward the end of the workday that prepares the Muslim for the evening. Especially in the summer months, the long evening period after the Asr prayer leaves time for both worship and social activities.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) narrated many noble hadiths about the Asr prayer. In one of them he said: "Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, it is as if his family and property have been taken from him" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 15; Muslim, Masajid, 200). This hadith expresses in a striking way how great a loss it is to miss or neglect the Asr prayer. The despair of a person whose family and property have been taken from him is used to convey the extent of the spiritual loss suffered by the one who abandons the Asr prayer.
What Time is the Asr Adhan Recited?
"What time is the Asr adhan today?" is one of the most frequently searched religious questions in Turkey. Because the Asr adhan time is calculated based on the position of the sun in the sky and the length of shadows, it varies considerably according to the season of the year and the geographical coordinates of the city in which one is located. After the Fajr and Maghrib adhans, the time that shows the greatest seasonal variation is the Asr time. Across Turkey, the Asr adhan is recited approximately between 16:30 and 17:30 in the summer months and between 14:30 and 15:30 in the winter months.
In Istanbul, the Asr adhan is recited around 17:15–17:30 in the summer months (June–July), while in the winter months (December–January) it is recited around 15:00–15:15. This roughly two-hour difference stems from the different paths the sun follows in summer and winter. At the summer solstice the lengthening of the daytime means the sun travels a higher and longer path across the sky, which causes shadows to reach the length specified for the Asr time later.
In Ankara, the Asr adhan is recited approximately 10–15 minutes earlier than in Istanbul, because Ankara lies further east. In Hakkari (Turkey's easternmost city) the Asr adhan is recited about 40–45 minutes earlier than in Istanbul, while in Edirne (the westernmost) it is recited about 10–15 minutes later. This difference arises from the distance between longitudes. Every 1 degree of longitude corresponds to approximately a 4-minute difference in the sun's meridian transit.
The Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) calculates and announces Asr adhan times for all provinces and districts across Turkey based on astronomical calculations. The Asr time is determined according to the calculation of the Hanafi madhhab; that is, it is computed as the moment when the shadow of an object reaches twice its own length, excluding the shadow at zawal. You can follow current Asr adhan times via EzanVaktim.com or Diyanet's official mobile app. The dynamic clock indicator at the top of the page automatically displays the current Asr adhan time based on your location.
When Does the Asr Prayer Time Begin?
The time of the Asr prayer begins when the time of the Dhuhr prayer ends. However, this starting point is the subject of an important Hanafi-Shafi'i difference among the Islamic schools of jurisprudence. This difference of opinion concerns the calculation of the shadow length of an object and is a jurisprudential matter that Islamic scholars have debated for centuries.
According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr prayer time begins at the moment the shadow of an object reaches twice its own length, excluding the shadow length at the moment of zawal (fay' al-zawal). In this calculation, the shadow remaining after subtracting the zawal shadow is considered. For example, if a stick that is 1 meter tall has a zawal shadow of 30 cm, then according to the Hanafi madhhab the Asr time enters when the shadow of this stick reaches 2 meters + 30 cm = 2.30 meters.
According to the Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali madhhabs, the Asr prayer time begins at the moment the shadow of an object reaches once its own length, excluding the zawal shadow. In the example above, when the shadow reaches 1 meter + 30 cm = 1.30 meters, the Asr time begins. This difference of opinion among the madhhabs can create a time gap of approximately 45–60 minutes in practice. According to the Shafi'i madhhab the Asr time begins earlier, and therefore the duration of the Dhuhr prayer is shorter.
Maintain the prayers and the middle prayer (salat al-wusta). Stand before Allah in devout obedience.
In Turkey, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) takes the Hanafi madhhab's calculation as its basis. For this reason, in prayer time calendars in Turkey, the Asr time is displayed as the moment when the shadow of an object reaches twice its length. However, Muslims who follow the Shafi'i madhhab may perform the Asr prayer from the moment the shadow reaches once its length. This is of practical importance especially in regions of southeastern Anatolia and the eastern Mediterranean, where there is a significant Shafi'i population.
The time of the Asr prayer ends with sunset. That is, the moment the Maghrib adhan is recited is the moment when the time of the Asr prayer ends. However, there is an important detail here: the time at which the sun approaches setting, its light weakens, and it can be looked at directly with the eye is makruh time. Although it is makruh to perform the Asr prayer during this makruh time, if it has not yet been performed it is not abandoned and must still be prayed. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever catches one rakat of the Asr prayer before sunset has caught the Asr prayer" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 28).
How Many Rakats is the Asr Prayer?
The Asr prayer is performed as a total of 8 rakats: 4 rakats sunnah and 4 rakats fard. Unlike the sunnahs of the Dhuhr and Fajr prayers, the sunnah of the Asr prayer is in the ghayr muakkad (non-emphasized) sunnah category. This means that although its performance is strongly recommended, no sin is incurred when it is abandoned. The 4 rakats of fard, however, are obligatory upon every sane, adult Muslim, and abandoning them is a major sin.
The sunnah of the Asr prayer: 4 rakats, in the ghayr muakkad sunnah category. This sunnah is performed with a sitting after every two rakats; that is, at the end of the second rakat one sits and recites Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), then performs the third and fourth rakats and gives the salam. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "May Allah have mercy on the one who prays four rakats before the Asr prayer" (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi). This noble hadith clearly demonstrates that praying the sunnah of the Asr prayer is encouraged.
The fard of the Asr prayer: 4 rakats, obligatory upon every Muslim. In the fard of the Asr prayer, the recitation is performed silently (sirr); that is, the imam or the person praying alone recites al-Fatihah and the additional surah silently. With this feature, the Asr prayer resembles the Dhuhr prayer and differs from the Fajr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers. There is no sunnah prayer after the fard of the Asr prayer.
| Prayer | Type | Rakats | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asr Sunnah | Sunnah | 4 | Ghayr muakkad sunnah — sitting after every two rakats |
| Asr Fard | Fard | 4 | Fard al-ayn — silent (sirr) recitation |
The absence of a sunnah prayer after the fard of the Asr prayer is an important feature that distinguishes this prayer from the other times. The reason for this is that the period following the Asr prayer approaches sunset, and during this time it is makruh to perform voluntary (nafl) prayers. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray after the Asr prayer until the sun has set" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 31). For this reason, no voluntary or sunnah prayers are performed after the Asr prayer until the sun has set. However, a person who has missed (qada) prayers may perform makeup prayers during this time.
In some narrations it is reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) sometimes abandoned the sunnah of the Asr prayer and sometimes performed it. This is one of the proofs that places the sunnah in the ghayr muakkad category. Nevertheless, for Muslims who have the time and opportunity, performing this sunnah is a source of great reward. Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: "The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to pray four rakats before the Asr and would separate them with a salam" (Tirmidhi). From this narration it is also understood that the Prophet at times performed the sunnah of the Asr as 2+2 rakats.
How is the Asr Prayer Performed?
The Asr prayer is performed first with 4 rakats of sunnah and then 4 rakats of fard. Each part's steps are explained in detail below. Before beginning the prayer, the conditions of being in a state of wudu, covering the awrah, facing the qiblah, and being within the prayer time must be fulfilled.
Sunnah of the Asr Prayer (4 Rakats)
Intention (Niyyah) and Opening Takbir
Make the intention in the heart: "I intend to perform the sunnah of the Asr prayer." Raise the hands to the level of the ears (women to shoulder level) and say "Allahu Akbar" to begin the prayer.
Qiyam (Standing Recitation) — 1st and 2nd Rakats
Place the hands below the navel (Hanafi) or on the chest (Shafi'i). Recite in order: Subhanaka, Ta'awwudh and Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah. Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the second rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu) — this is the first sitting.
3rd and 4th Rakats
Stand up saying "Allahu Akbar". Recite Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah (in sunnah prayers an additional surah is recited in every rakat). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the fourth rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), Allahumma salli, Allahumma barik, and Rabbana atina supplications. Give the salam to the right and then to the left.
The Fard of the Asr Prayer (4 Rakats)
After the sunnah, the iqamah is called and the fard of the Asr prayer is performed. If praying in congregation, the imam is followed; if praying alone, it is performed as follows:
Intention (Niyyah) and Opening Takbir
Make the intention: "I intend to perform the fard of the Asr prayer." If praying in congregation, add "following the imam." Begin the prayer by saying "Allahu Akbar".
1st and 2nd Rakats
Recite Subhanaka, Ta'awwudh and Basmalah, Surah al-Fatihah, and an additional surah. In the Asr prayer, the recitation is performed silently (sirr). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the second rakat, sit and recite Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu).
3rd and 4th Rakats
Stand up and recite only Basmalah and Surah al-Fatihah (no additional surah is recited in the third and fourth rakats of fard prayer). Perform ruku and prostrations. At the end of the fourth rakat, recite all the supplications in the final sitting and give the salam.
No sunnah prayer is performed after the fard of the Asr prayer. This is an important feature that distinguishes the Asr prayer from the other times. After the fard, it is sunnah to recite tasbih, Ayat al-Kursi, to ask for forgiveness (istighfar), and to make supplication. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to say "Astaghfirullah" three times after every fard prayer, then recite the supplication: "Allahumma anta as-salam wa minka as-salam, tabarakta ya Dhal-Jalali wal-Ikram."
The virtue of praying the Asr prayer in congregation is great. A prayer performed in congregation is twenty-seven times more virtuous than one prayed alone. Since the Asr prayer falls toward the end of working hours, many Muslims can find the opportunity to pray this prayer in congregation at their workplace or at a nearby mosque. Especially in industrial zones, business centers, and shopping centers, the Asr prayer congregation in the masjids can be quite crowded. The Prophet (peace be upon him) drew attention to the special importance of these two prayers by saying: "Whoever prays the Fajr and Asr prayers will enter Paradise" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 26).
The Merit of the Asr Prayer
Whoever prays the Fajr and Asr prayers will enter Paradise.
This noble hadith clearly establishes that the Fajr and Asr prayers occupy a special position among the other prayers. Because the Asr prayer is performed at the most tiring and busy hours of the day, praying it regularly requires great will and a strong consciousness of servitude to Allah. This is precisely why the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave special emphasis to the Asr prayer.
Many noble hadiths have been narrated regarding the merit of the Asr prayer. In one of them the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "There are among you angels who take turns by night and by day. They gather together at the Fajr and Asr prayers. Then those who spent the night with you ascend, and Allah — though He knows them best — asks them: 'In what state did you leave My servants?' They reply: 'We left them while they were praying, and when we came to them they were praying'" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 16; Muslim, Masajid, 210).
As is understood from this hadith, the Fajr and Asr prayers coincide with the times of the changing of the angels' shifts. The night and day angels gather at these two times, and the angels who see Muslims in a state of prayer present this to Allah. For this reason, performing the Fajr and Asr prayers in congregation and with khushu carries special importance. The testimony of the angels will be a great means of intercession for Muslims on the Day of Judgment.
In another hadith the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, his deeds will be in vain" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 15). This hadith shows how grave a consequence it is to abandon or neglect the Asr prayer. The expression "deeds being in vain" (habt al-amal) has been interpreted in various ways by Islamic scholars. Some scholars have understood it to mean that abandoning the Asr prayer reduces the reward of other deeds; others have stated that this expression is used to emphasize the gravity of abandoning the prayer.
Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, it is as if his family and property have been taken from him.
Another spiritual dimension of the Asr prayer is that, performed toward the end of the day, it serves as expiation for the sins committed by the Muslim throughout the day. Each of the five daily prayers is a means of forgiveness for the minor sins committed between two prayers. The Asr prayer provides an opportunity for the forgiveness of mistakes made in the period between noon and evening. The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the purifying effect of prayer by saying: "The five daily prayers are like a river flowing in front of the door of one of you. Can any dirt remain on the person who washes in that river five times a day?" (Bukhari).
The Relationship between the Asr Prayer and Surah al-Asr
The 103rd chapter of the Holy Qur'an, Surah al-Asr, takes its name directly from the Asr time. The word "asr" in Arabic means the afternoon hour, time, century, and era. In this surah, Allah Most High begins by swearing an oath by "al-asr" and declares that mankind is in loss, while exempting from this loss those who possess four qualities.
Surah al-Asr (Arabic and English)
بِسْمِ اللّٰهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحٖيمِ
Bismillahi'r-Rahmani'r-Rahim — In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
وَالْعَصْرِ
Wal-asr — By time (by al-asr / the afternoon),
اِنَّ الْاِنْسَانَ لَفٖى خُسْرٍ
Inna al-insana lafi khusr — Indeed, mankind is in loss,
اِلَّا الَّذٖينَ اٰمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالْحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوْا بِالصَّبْرِ
Illa alladhina amanu wa amilu as-salihati wa tawasaw bil-haqqi wa tawasaw bis-sabr — Except for those who believe and do righteous deeds, and enjoin upon one another the truth and enjoin upon one another patience.
Many Qur'anic commentators have noted that the word "asr" in the surah refers to the Asr time. Imam al-Qurtubi stated that the reason for the special value of the Asr time is that it is the final segment of the day, and just as every moment will be questioned on the Day of Reckoning, this final portion of the day also calls for a special reckoning. The Asr time is particularly significant because it is the time when the sun moves toward setting and has been likened to the end of one's life.
Imam al-Shafi'i (may Allah have mercy on him) said about Surah al-Asr: "If people only reflected on this surah, it would be enough for them." This statement shows how deep and comprehensive a meaning the surah carries. Four fundamental principles are outlined in the surah: faith, righteous deeds, enjoining truth, and enjoining patience. These four principles summarize the essential qualities that should be present in a Muslim's life.
Reciting Surah al-Asr in the Asr prayer carries a special spiritual meaning, since the name of the surah refers to the Asr time. It is reported that the noble companions, when they met one another, would recite Surah al-Asr to each other before parting. This tradition shows how central a role the surah played in their daily lives. Reciting Surah al-Asr in the sunnah of the Asr prayer or in the first two rakats of the fard is a beautiful practice both because it suits the time and because it reminds one of the surah's profound messages.
Makruh Time in the Asr Period
One of the most important jurisprudential subjects that should be known concerning the Asr time is the makruh time associated with this period. The period in which the sun approaches setting and its light weakens to the point that it can be looked at directly with the eye is called the "makruh time" in Islamic jurisprudence. This time begins approximately 40–45 minutes before sunset and continues until the moment the sun sets.
The following prayers are not performed during the makruh time: voluntary (sunnah, tatawwu) prayers, the funeral prayer (according to the Hanafi madhhab), the prostration of recitation (sajdat al-tilawah), and makeup (qada) prayers of previously missed fard prayers. However, there is a very important exception: if that day's Asr prayer has not yet been performed, it must absolutely be prayed even during the makruh time. In this case the prayer is makruh, but it is sound and valid. This is because the time of the fard prayer ends with sunset, and after that it can only be performed as a makeup (qada) prayer.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever catches one rakat of the Asr prayer before sunset has caught the Asr prayer" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 28). This hadith establishes that the Asr prayer must absolutely be prayed before sunset, and that even if it is prayed at the very last moment, it is counted as a timely (ada) performance. However, this does not constitute a license to deliberately delay the prayer to the makruh time. Praying at the beginning of the time is always more virtuous.
The determination of the makruh time is astronomically related to the angle of the sun's approach to the horizon. The makruh time is considered to begin when the sun's elevation above the horizon drops to about 5–6 degrees. Practically, this is the moment when the sun can be looked at directly without discomfort to the eye. The fact that at this time, when the sun turns red and its light weakens, ancient peoples performed sun-worship rituals is cited as one of the reasons why this time was made makruh for prayer in Islam.
It is important to plan in advance so that the Asr prayer is not left until the makruh time. Especially in the winter months, the shortness of the daytime narrows the period between the Asr prayer and sunset. In the winter months in Istanbul, there are approximately 1.5–2 hours between the Asr prayer and the Maghrib adhan, while in the summer months there are 3–4 hours. Taking this period into account and striving to perform the Asr prayer in the first half of its time is the most correct approach.
The Ruling on Missing the Asr Prayer
Missing the Asr prayer without a valid excuse is considered one of the major sins in Islam. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used extremely clear and warning expressions on this matter. The hadith "Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, his deeds will be in vain" (Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 15) shows how grave the consequence of abandoning this prayer is. The expression "deeds being in vain" (habt al-amal) has been treated as a very serious warning in Islamic juristic literature.
In another hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever (deliberately) abandons the Asr prayer, it is as if his family and property have been taken from him" (Bukhari, Muslim). The helplessness and grief experienced by a person who has lost his family and property is a simile used to convey the extent of the spiritual loss suffered by the one who abandons the Asr prayer. The fact that these hadiths specifically concern the Asr prayer once again confirms the special position this prayer holds among the five daily prayers.
Those who miss the Asr prayer due to work, school, travel, or another excuse must immediately perform it as a makeup (qada) prayer as soon as they remember or find the opportunity. In the makeup prayer, only the 4 rakats of fard are performed; the sunnah is not made up. The intention is made as: "I intend to perform the fard of the last Asr prayer I missed." The performance is the same as that of the Asr prayer performed within its time; the recitation is again performed silently (sirr).
Regularly missing the Asr prayer is considered a serious religious negligence. Muslims who regularly miss the Asr prayer due to work hours should take various measures to address this situation: searching for a masjid or a suitable place at the workplace, adjusting break times according to the prayer time, discussing the matter with the employer, or learning the Asr prayer schedules of nearby mosques are some of these measures.
Those who have accumulated makeup Asr prayers can gradually pay off this debt by praying one or several makeup prayers after the Asr prayer each day. Performing makeup prayers serves both as paying a debt and as repentance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps through it should pray it when he remembers. There is no expiation other than this" (Bukhari, Muslim). This hadith clearly states that the makeup prayer should be performed in the shortest time possible.
Asr Prayer Times by City in Turkey
Owing to Turkey's geographical position, the Asr prayer time varies significantly from city to city and from season to season. Turkey's east-west extent is approximately 1,600 km, and this distance corresponds to roughly a 1-hour-15-minute time difference in the sun's movement from east to west. For this reason, the Asr adhan in Hakkari is recited approximately 1 hour earlier than in Istanbul.
| City | Summer (June) | Winter (December) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul | ~17:22 | ~14:58 | ~2h 24m |
| Ankara | ~17:07 | ~14:47 | ~2h 20m |
| Izmir | ~17:25 | ~15:06 | ~2h 19m |
| Antalya | ~17:12 | ~15:02 | ~2h 10m |
| Trabzon | ~16:52 | ~14:32 | ~2h 20m |
| Diyarbakir | ~16:42 | ~14:22 | ~2h 20m |
| Gaziantep | ~16:50 | ~14:38 | ~2h 12m |
| Konya | ~17:08 | ~14:52 | ~2h 16m |
As can be seen from the table above, the summer-winter difference in the Asr adhan time varies between approximately 2 hours and 2.5 hours. This difference is much greater than the summer-winter difference in the Dhuhr adhan. In the summer months the lengthening of daytime, the higher angle and longer path of the sun across the sky, causes shadows to reach the specified length for the Asr time later.
In western cities (Istanbul, Izmir) the Asr adhan is recited later, while in eastern cities (Diyarbakir, Trabzon, Hakkari) it is recited earlier. Additionally, in cities at higher northern latitudes the summer-winter difference is more pronounced; in southern cities this difference is relatively smaller. You can refer to the up-to-date prayer time calendar on EzanVaktim.com to follow these geographical differences.
Especially in winter months, the early entry of the Asr prayer time requires careful planning for working Muslims and students. In the winter months, the period between the Asr prayer and the Maghrib adhan can be quite short (about 1 hour 40 minutes in Istanbul). For this reason, postponing the Asr prayer increases the risk of falling into the makruh time or missing it entirely. The most correct approach is to follow the times regularly and strive to perform the Asr prayer in the first half of its time.
Noble Hadiths Concerning the Asr Prayer
The Prophet (peace be upon him) narrated many noble hadiths concerning the Asr prayer and especially emphasized the importance of this prayer to his ummah. The most well-known and most authentic hadiths concerning the Asr prayer have been compiled below:
1. The Glad Tidings of Paradise for the Fajr and Asr Prayers
"Whoever prays the Fajr prayer and the Asr prayer will enter Paradise."
Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 26
2. The Changing of the Angels' Shifts
"There are among you angels who take turns by night and by day. They gather together at the Fajr and Asr prayers."
Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 16; Muslim, Masajid, 210
3. The Warning of Deeds Being in Vain
"Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, his deeds will be in vain."
Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 15
4. The Simile of Losing Family and Property
"Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, it is as if his family and property have been taken from him."
Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 15; Muslim, Masajid, 200
5. Catching the Last Rakat
"Whoever catches one rakat of the Asr prayer before sunset has caught the Asr prayer."
Bukhari, Mawaqit al-Salat, 28
6. Salat al-Wusta
"The middle prayer (salat al-wusta) is the Asr prayer."
Muslim, Masajid, 205; Tirmidhi, Tafsir, 3
7. The Prayer of Mercy for the Sunnah of Asr
"May Allah have mercy on the one who prays four rakats before the Asr prayer."
Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi
When the totality of these hadiths is examined, it becomes clear that the Asr prayer holds a special position among the five daily prayers. The glad tidings of Paradise, the witness of the angels, the warning of deeds being in vain, and the designation of salat al-wusta all emphasize the privileged place of this prayer. It is of great importance for every Muslim to know these hadiths and to give the Asr prayer the importance it deserves.
Surahs and Supplications to Recite in the Asr Prayer
The Asr prayer is one of the prayers in which the recitation is performed silently (sirr). The imam or the person praying alone recites al-Fatihah and the additional surah inaudibly. It is sunnah to recite medium-length surahs in the Asr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to recite in the fard of the Asr prayer surahs of similar length to those in the Dhuhr prayer; however, he kept them slightly shorter than in the Dhuhr prayer.
Surahs to Recite in the Sunnah
- Each rakat: Al-Fatihah + any surah of your choice
- Recommended: Al-Asr, Al-Humazah, Al-Fil, Quraysh, Al-Ma'un, Al-Kawthar, Al-Kafirun, An-Nasr, Al-Ikhlas
In sunnah prayers, an additional surah is recited in every rakat.
In the Fard Prayer
- 1st and 2nd Rakats: Al-Fatihah + a medium-length surah
- 3rd and 4th Rakats: Only al-Fatihah
No additional surah is recited in the last two rakats of the fard.
Some of the surahs that the Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have recited in the fard of the Asr prayer include: Surah al-Buruj, Surah at-Tariq, Surah al-A'la, Surah al-Layl, and similar medium-length surahs. Reciting Surah al-Asr in particular in the Asr prayer carries special beauty and meaning, since the name of the surah refers to this time.
Supplications to Recite After the Asr Prayer
Since there is no sunnah prayer after the fard of the Asr prayer, more time can be devoted to tasbih, supplication, and remembrance (dhikr) at this time. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to perform the following tasbihat after every fard prayer:
Tasbihat After Prayer
3 times: "Astaghfirullah" (I seek forgiveness from Allah)
1 time: "Allahumma anta as-salam wa minka as-salam, tabarakta ya Dhal-Jalali wal-Ikram"
33 times: "Subhanallah" (Glory be to Allah)
33 times: "Alhamdulillah" (Praise be to Allah)
33 times: "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest)
1 time: "La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ala kulli shay'in qadir"
Reciting Ayat al-Kursi after the Asr prayer is also sunnah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Nothing prevents the one who recites Ayat al-Kursi after every fard prayer from entering Paradise except death" (Nasa'i, Amal al-Yawm wa al-Laylah). Furthermore, reciting Surah al-Ikhlas, Surah al-Falaq, and Surah an-Nas is also among the practices recommended after the prayers.
The Etiquette and Manners of the Asr Prayer
The Asr prayer, like the other prayers, must be performed in accordance with specific rules of etiquette and manners. These rules encompass both the outward (zahir) conditions of the prayer and its inner (batin) dimension. Observing the outward etiquette of the prayer is necessary for the prayer to be valid, while observing its inner etiquette is important for the prayer to be accepted and for its spiritual benefit to increase.
1. Praying in the Early Hours of the Time
It is mustahabb to perform the Asr prayer in the early hours of its time. The Prophet (peace be upon him) preferred to pray early. Particular care must be taken not to leave the prayer until the makruh time. "The most virtuous of deeds is the prayer performed on time" (Bukhari).
2. Performing Wudu Properly
Before the Asr prayer, it is important to perform wudu well and in accordance with its sunnah. Making supplication while washing each limb of wudu, using miswak, and not wasting the water of wudu are among the manners of wudu.
3. Praying with Khushu
Achieving inner peace and concentration (khushu) in the prayer is one of the most important inner aspects of prayer etiquette. Due to the fatigue of the day and the influence of work-related preoccupations, khushu may decrease in the Asr prayer. For this reason, sitting for a while before beginning the prayer to clear the mind of worldly thoughts is beneficial.
4. Striving to Pray in Congregation
Praying the Asr prayer in congregation is twenty-seven times more virtuous than praying alone. Every Muslim who has the opportunity should strive to pray the Asr prayer in congregation at a mosque or at the masjid at their workplace.
5. Praying its Sunnah
Although the sunnah of the Asr prayer is ghayr muakkad, its performance is recommended and is a source of great reward. It should be remembered that the Prophet (peace be upon him) made a supplication of mercy for those who pray this sunnah.
6. Not Hurrying After the Prayer
It is sunnah not to get up immediately after the Asr prayer but to sit for a while, perform tasbih, make supplication, and recite Ayat al-Kursi. Since there is no sunnah prayer after the fard, using this time for supplication and remembrance is spiritually very rewarding.
Another aspect of Asr prayer etiquette is to maintain tranquility and dignity while praying. Not hurrying during ruku and prostration, and pausing for a moment after completing each movement (tuma'ninah), is among the wajib of the prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said to a man who prayed his prayer in haste: "Go back and pray, for you have not prayed" (Bukhari, Muslim), thereby emphasizing the importance of tranquility in prayer.
The Asr Time and Daily Life
The Asr time is an important segment of the day during which work and social life continue in the second half of the day. Being able to perform the Asr prayer regularly in modern life requires conscious time management and determination. However, with proper planning, the Asr prayer can become a natural and peaceful part of the daily routine.
The Asr prayer at the workplace: In Turkey, many workplaces provide their employees with the opportunity to pray. Even when there is no masjid or prayer room at the workplace, an empty meeting room, an office corner, or a nearby mosque can be used for the Asr prayer. The Asr prayer (together with its sunnah) takes approximately 10–15 minutes; this is about as long as a standard tea break. Discussing this matter openly with employers generally produces positive results.
The Asr prayer at school: For university and high school students, the Asr prayer may coincide with class hours. Many universities have a masjid. It may be possible to perform the Asr prayer during breaks between classes or during the lunch break. If class hours do not allow it, performing it at the first available moment is the most correct approach.
The Asr prayer during travel: Performing the Asr prayer while traveling is possible thanks to certain concessions. Travelers (those counted as musafir) may shorten the four-rakat fard prayers to two rakats (qasr). This concession allows the fard of the Asr prayer to be performed as 2 rakats instead of 4. Additionally, a traveler may combine (jam') the Dhuhr and Asr prayers. According to the Hanafi madhhab, jam' is only permitted during Hajj at Arafat and Muzdalifah, while according to the Shafi'i, Maliki, and Hanbali madhhabs, jam' may be performed during travel.
Seasonal planning: Since the Asr prayer time varies greatly by season, adapting to seasonal changes is important. While the Asr prayer enters around 15:00 in the winter months, in the summer months it may shift to as late as 17:30. Tracking this change and adjusting the daily schedule accordingly is vital to avoid missing the prayer. Following the time via EzanVaktim.com or through mobile applications provides great convenience in this regard.
The Asr prayer is also a beautiful occasion for taking stock of the day and preparing oneself spiritually for the evening time. Stepping away from all worldly preoccupations for a short while during the most stressful hours of work and standing in the presence of Allah has a restful effect on both the soul and the psyche. Scientific research conducted has shown that the five daily prayers reduce stress levels and increase inner peace.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many rakats is the Asr prayer?
The Asr prayer is a total of 8 rakats: 4 rakats sunnah (ghayr muakkad) and 4 rakats fard. Its sunnah is not muakkad (emphasized); however, its performance is recommended and its reward is great. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "May Allah have mercy on the one who prays four rakats before the Asr prayer." The 4 rakats of fard are obligatory upon every Muslim. There is no sunnah prayer after the fard, because performing voluntary prayers after the Asr prayer until sunset is makruh.
What time is the Asr adhan recited?
According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr adhan is recited when the shadow of an object reaches twice its own length. In Turkey, this time varies between approximately 16:30–17:30 in the summer months and 14:30–15:30 in the winter months. In Istanbul it is around ~17:22 in summer and around ~14:58 in winter. It is recited earlier in eastern provinces and later in western provinces. You can follow the current Asr adhan time via EzanVaktim.com.
When does the Asr prayer time begin and end?
According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr prayer time begins when the shadow of an object — excluding the zawal shadow — reaches twice its own length. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, it begins when the shadow reaches once its length. The Asr prayer time ends with sunset (with the recitation of the Maghrib adhan). However, the time at which the sun approaches setting and can be looked at directly with the eye is the makruh time; voluntary prayers are not performed during this time, but if the Asr prayer has not yet been performed, it must still be prayed.
How is the Asr prayer performed?
The Asr prayer is performed in the following order: First, 4 rakats of sunnah are prayed (ghayr muakkad); in this sunnah one sits at the end of the second rakat and recites Tashahhud (Ettehiyyatu), then performs the third and fourth rakats. Then 4 rakats of fard are prayed; in the fard the imam recites silently (sirr), and in the third and fourth rakats only al-Fatihah is recited. There is no sunnah prayer after the fard. The Asr prayer is completed with a total of 8 rakats.
Is the sunnah of the Asr prayer muakkad?
No, the 4-rakat sunnah of the Asr prayer is in the ghayr muakkad (non-emphasized) sunnah category. This means that its performance is encouraged but no sin is incurred if it is abandoned. While the 2-rakat sunnah of Fajr, the 4-rakat first sunnah and 2-rakat final sunnah of Dhuhr, the 2-rakat sunnah of Maghrib, and the 2-rakat final sunnah of Isha are muakkad sunnah, the sunnah of the Asr prayer is ghayr muakkad. Nevertheless, the Prophet (peace be upon him) made a supplication of mercy for the one who prays this sunnah.
Can voluntary prayers be performed after the Asr prayer?
No, performing voluntary (sunnah, tatawwu) prayers after the fard of the Asr prayer until sunset is makruh. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray after the Asr prayer until the sun has set." For this reason, performing tasbih, reciting the Qur'an, making supplication, and engaging in dhikr after the Asr prayer should be preferred. However, a person who has makeup prayers to perform may perform them during this time.
I missed the Asr prayer, what should I do?
A person who has missed the Asr prayer should perform it as a makeup (qada) prayer as soon as possible when they remember or find the opportunity. In the makeup prayer, only the 4 rakats of fard are performed; the sunnah is not made up. The intention is made as: "I intend to perform the fard of the last Asr prayer I missed." The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever forgets a prayer or sleeps through it should pray it when he remembers." Deliberately abandoning the Asr prayer is a major sin, because the Prophet said: "Whoever abandons the Asr prayer, his deeds will be in vain."
What is the difference between the Hanafi and Shafi'i madhhabs regarding the Asr time?
According to the Hanafi madhhab, the Asr prayer time begins when the shadow of an object — excluding the zawal shadow — reaches twice its own length. According to the Shafi'i madhhab, it begins when the shadow reaches once its length. This difference is approximately 45–60 minutes in practice. According to the Shafi'i madhhab the Asr time enters earlier, and therefore the time of the Dhuhr prayer is shorter. In Turkey, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) takes the Hanafi calculation as its basis. The calculations of both madhhabs are based on authentic hadiths.
