How to Strengthen Concentration (Khushu') in Prayer?

Strengthening concentration and humility (Khushu') in prayer is a profound aspiration for every Muslim who seeks a deeper connection with their Lord. Prayer (Salah) is the pillar of faith and the believer’s ascension (Mi’raj), but merely performing the outward movements and recitations without an attentive heart and humility may not yield the profound benefits and spiritual elevation that Allah expects from us. Presence of heart in prayer means that one's entire being, thoughts, and soul are directed towards God during the performance of the prayer, freeing oneself from any worldly distractions or whispers. The Holy Quran explicitly and implicitly alludes to the significance of this matter. For instance, in Surah Al-Mu’minun, Allah Almighty links the success of believers to their humility in their prayers. In verses 1 and 2, it states: “Certainly will the believers prosper * Those who are during their prayer humbly submissive.” (Al-Mu’minun 23:1-2). This verse demonstrates that Khushu' is not just a moral virtue but a cornerstone of salvation and success in the sight of Allah. Therefore, cultivating Khushu' is not merely an ethical recommendation but a Quranic imperative for achieving true prosperity. One of the most crucial ways to enhance presence of heart is to deeply understand the philosophy of prayer. Prayer is not just a series of movements and invocations; rather, it is an embodiment of servitude, gratitude, repentance, seeking help, and an intimate conversation with the unique Creator. When one truly grasps the magnitude of the Power they are addressing, comprehends the majesty of Allah, and remembers their own insignificance before Him, a state of humility and presence of heart is naturally fostered within them. The Quran states in Surah Taha, verse 14: “And establish prayer for My remembrance.” This verse clearly identifies the primary purpose of prayer as 'remembrance of Allah'. This remembrance is not merely uttering words but a heartfelt presence that keeps a person away from heedlessness and brings them tranquility. To strengthen this 'remembrance of Allah', it is essential to clear one's mind of worldly concerns as much as possible before starting the prayer. This can be achieved by a few moments of silence, deep breathing, or contemplating Allah's greatness. Furthermore, performing ablution (Wudu) with attentiveness and understanding that it purifies both body and soul can serve as an excellent prelude to presence of heart. Choosing a quiet place, free from noise, and focusing on the Qibla are environmental factors that help the mind to be less distracted. During the prayer itself, concentrating on the meanings of the verses and supplications is critically important. Many of us recite prayers in Arabic but may not pay sufficient attention to the meanings of the words. Learning the English translation and even a brief commentary on Surah Al-Fatiha, Al-Ikhlas, and the recitations of Ruku' (bowing) and Sujood (prostration) will profoundly impact the quality of the prayer. When we say, “You alone we worship, and You alone we ask for help,” we should feel with our entire being that we worship only You and seek help only from You. Or when we say in Ruku', “Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great, and praise be to Him,” we should grasp the greatness and purity of the Lord with our whole heart. This deepening understanding automatically increases presence of heart. Moreover, extending Ruku' and Sujood slightly provides an opportunity for deeper reflection and contemplation, preventing us from rushing through the prayer. Imam Sadiq (AS) said: “When you pray, make it a farewell prayer,” meaning pray as if it is your last prayer in life, which itself brings the highest degree of presence and submission. Imagining that you are conversing with Allah and He is listening to every word you utter can awaken a sense of modesty and humility, preventing the mind from wandering. Other important points include guarding one's gaze. Not looking around and keeping one's eyes fixed on the spot of prostration significantly aids mental focus. Furthermore, reflecting on the effects of prayer, especially its role in deterring sins, can strengthen Khushu'. The Quran in Surah Al-Ankabut, verse 45, states: “Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing.” This deterrent effect is fully realized only when prayer is established with presence of heart and awareness. If a worshipper perceives themselves in the presence of Allah throughout the prayer and maintains this feeling afterwards, their inclination towards sins decreases. Additionally, reducing attachment to worldly possessions and focusing on the ultimate purpose of creation (i.e., meeting with Allah) are also effective factors in strengthening presence of heart. The less attached a person is to the world, the calmer and more prepared their mind will be for connecting with the Creator. Performing supererogatory (Nawafil) prayers can also help increase one's connection with Allah, thereby strengthening presence of heart in obligatory prayers, as continuous practice leads to mastery. Ultimately, it must be remembered that Khushu' and presence of heart are a journey, not a destination. They require continuous practice, repentance from sins, seeking forgiveness, and reliance on Allah. One should constantly seek Allah's assistance to grant us the success of this divine presence.