Sembahyanglah Wahai Insan

Five times a day, up to ten minutes each time, bowing at least twice and going down on hands and knees at least four times everytime.

Prayers. The responsibility of a muslim to uphold. Some of us uphold it with devout zeal, others simply shrug it off non-chalantly.

But why do people do it? Why does a muslim drop on his hands and knees to worship a God that he cannot see? What is he doing it for?

A question for all those muslims out there. Why do you do it?

Tradition. Being raised from a very young age as a muslim plays an important role in this. They pray the way that they were taught to. The same way their ancesters were taught to do it. The prayer, has become almost like a cultural practice.

Habit. Some start at such a young age, that the prayer becomes an instinctual habit. Practiced for so long it becomes ingrained in their very lifestyle. Thus they will hardly ever forget it. It is a part of who they are.

A cry for help. When hardship bears its weight down, leaving no place for a muslim turn to, he calls out to God. He sends out a plea to God. He asks for aid and respite , begging protection and guidance in his time of need.

Praising his Lord. Indeed this is the most basic of objectives of the prayer: Sending praises to God Almighty. From the very first verse we recite, Allahu Akbar, down till the very end. Thus the muslim prays to praise.

Begging for forgiveness. Sin. It accompanies us with every step we take, each corner we turn, each day that passes. This may be another function of our prayers to the Creator. Asking to be pardoned from our mistakes and transgressions. Hopefully, He would polish our tarnished souls and brighten our dulled spirits; Washing away our sins through our prayers to Him, God Almighty.

Gratitude. Giving thanks. Showing remembrance for the kindness and blessings that He showers us each and every day. There are those who commit prayers to Him just to acknowledge this very fact to give thanks.

The reasons are many, but one thing remains clear and concise. The prayer, is commitment from God's creations, dedicated to Him. It is when the muslim seeks council with Him. It is when we speak to Him. It is when we praise and remember Him.

So why do YOU pray?