Maghrib (Sunset Prayer)
The fourth daily prayer, performed just after sunset.
Maghrib (Arabic: مغرب) is the fourth of the five daily obligatory prayers in Islam. The word "maghrib" means "west" or "sunset" in Arabic and refers to the time when the sun disappears below the western horizon.
The Maghrib prayer consists of three rak'ah and is unique in this number, as the other prayers have either two or four. It should be prayed immediately after sunset, and it is sunnah to pray it quickly after the adhan — there is not a long waiting period as with the other prayers.
Maghrib time is the most precise of all prayer times, as it is directly linked to an observable astronomical phenomenon: the sunset. It is calculated as the moment when the sun's upper edge disappears below the horizon. This varies dramatically — from around 3:30 PM in December to 10:00 PM in June at higher latitudes.
Maghrib also marks the time for iftar (the meal to break the fast) during Ramadan, when Muslims break their fast. It is tradition to break the fast with dates and water, as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did.
Related terms
Wudu (Ritual Ablution)
The ritual cleansing with water, required before prayer.
Du'a Kumayl (Kumayl's Supplication)
One of the most famous Shia supplications, taught by Imam Ali to Kumayl ibn Ziyad.
Khutbah (Sermon)
The Islamic sermon delivered before the Friday prayer and at the Eid prayers.
Taslim (Concluding Greeting)
The concluding peace greeting that marks the end of the prayer.
Imamat (Divine Leadership)
The doctrine of the twelve divinely appointed Imams who lead the community after the Prophet.
Eid al-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice)
The greatest Islamic holiday, celebrated in remembrance of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.