Nation unites in ‘Salat-al-Istisqa’ to seek divine mercy for rain

ISLAMABAD (APP): Responding to an appeal by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the nation collectively turned to Allah in Salat al-Istisqa (prayers for rain) on Friday, with the central congregation held at the iconic Faisal Mosque in the Federal Capital.
A large number of worshippers, including families and community leaders, attended the prayer, demonstrating a united front against the ongoing dry spell that has exacerbated environmental and health challenges, including smog.
The special prayers were offered immediately after the weekly ‘Jummah,’ (Friday) prayers, with clerics urging people to seek forgiveness and turn towards righteous deeds as a means to invoke Allah’s mercy.
Addressing the congregation at Faisal Masque the prayer leader highlighted the significance of collective repentance.
“Rain is a blessing from Allah, withheld only when humanity strays from His path. We must correct our ways, mend our treatment of the environment, and earnestly seek His mercy,” he said. Meanwhile, participants of the prayer were visibly moved, some with tears streaming down their faces. Ali Reza, a local resident, expressed her hopes for relief. “The smog has made it difficult for children and the elderly to breathe. I pray that Allah showers His blessings upon us and relieves us from this hardship,” he said.