Surah Al-A'la — Verse 15

Key Words and Their Meanings:

• "Dhakara" (ذَكَرَ): To remember, mention, or glorify — here it signifies both the remembrance of the heart and the utterance of the tongue.
• "Isma Rabbihi" (اسْمَ رَبِّهِ): The name of his Lord — referring to Allah’s names and attributes, particularly His oneness (Tawhid) and His commands.
• "Fa Sallā" (فَصَلَّى): Then he prayed — meaning he performed the prescribed prayers (Salah) at their proper times, and also engaged in voluntary prayers.

Explanation of the Verse:

This verse continues the description of those who attain true success and purification. After mentioning that the one who purifies his soul from evil traits and sins is indeed successful, Allah now highlights two key actions that follow from this purification: remembrance of the Lord’s name and prayer.

The phrase *"and remembered the name of his Lord"* means that the person glorifies Allah, affirms His oneness, calls upon Him, and engages in the remembrance prescribed by Him — whether through praise, supplication, or recitation of His names. This remembrance is not merely a verbal act; it is a heartfelt recognition of Allah’s greatness and a commitment to obey His commands.

Then comes *"and prayed"* — this refers to performing the obligatory prayers (Salah) at their designated times, with the proper conditions, pillars, and humility, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It also includes voluntary prayers, as the believer strives to draw closer to Allah through extra acts of worship.

Together, these two actions — remembrance and prayer — are the fruits of a purified soul. They are the practical expressions of faith that connect the servant to his Lord, bringing tranquility to the heart and discipline to the body. The one who combines inner purification with outward worship has truly succeeded in this life and the next.

A Da'wah Reflection:

Dear reader, ponder how beautifully Islam links the inner state of the heart with outward actions. Purification of the soul is not a vague spiritual ideal; it manifests in concrete acts like remembering Allah and praying. When you wake up for Fajr, when you pause your work for Dhuhr, when you bow in sujood — you are not just performing rituals; you are nurturing your soul and affirming your servitude to the Most Merciful. This is the path to true success, a success that no worldly wealth or status can match. Let this verse inspire you to make remembrance and prayer the cornerstone of your daily life, and you will taste a peace that surpasses all understanding.