The Amiri Diwan announced that the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has called for a rain prayer (Istisqa) across the country on Thursday, November 5.
It is reported that Sheikh Tamim will join the crowds of believers during the morning rain prayer at the prayer ground in Lusail.
According to the latest meteorological reports provided by the Qatar Meteorological Department, there is a possibility of rain clouds appearing, which may become thunderstorms after noon. The temperature in the capital, Doha, remains within the thirties.
In other parts of the Persian Gulf, believers gathered last month for a similar special prayer to ask God for rain in the UAE, following the call by President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the Istisqa prayer on October 9.
Rain prayers, known in Arabic as Salat Al Istisqaa, are an established Sunnah in Islam, meaning any action performed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and blessings of God). Believers are usually urged to always follow the Sunnah and walk in the footsteps of the Prophet, but these traditions are not obligatory.
Rain in Islam symbolizes God's mercy. Appealing to God for rain is more common in the Arabian Gulf region, given its arid nature and harsh summer conditions.
Rain prayers consist of two rak'ahs. A rak'ah is one complete unit of Islamic prayer, which includes a sequence of movements and recitations. It is recommended that everyone going to pray for rain proceeds humbly and calmly, demonstrating humility and supplication, hoping for God's mercy, grace, and blessings.
