For Muslims, daily prayer (Salah, Salat, or Namaz) is one of the most important pillars of Islam. Five times each day, Muslims around the world turn towards Mecca to perform Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers.
This article provides information about prayer times in Portland, Maine, so you can plan your day around your faith. We’ll also share resources like prayer timetables and tools to help you stay on track with your daily devotions.
Understanding Islamic prayer times
Muslims pray five times each day, facing the Kaaba in Mecca. Here’s a look at the five daily prayers:
- Fajr: This morning prayer, performed before sunrise, consists of two rakats, or units of prayer.
- Dhuhr: This afternoon prayer is said after the sun passes its highest point and includes four rakats.
- Asr: The late-afternoon prayer, also consisting of four rakats, is performed before sunset.
- Maghrib: This evening prayer is performed just after sunset and consists of three rakats.
- Isha: The night prayer, offered after sunset, consists of four rakats.
Key concepts in Salah
Each of the five daily prayers consists of rakats, or units of prayer. Within each prayer, some acts are considered fard, or obligatory; others are considered sunnah, actions that the prophet Muhammad performed; and still others are considered nafl, or voluntary.
Finding prayer times for Portland, Maine
There are many ways to find out the daily prayer times if you’re in Portland, Maine. Here are some of the ways you can stay on top of your prayer schedule.
Prayer timetables and schedules
You can often find monthly prayer timetables online, for example, a schedule for May 2025. Websites and apps will give you prayer times, and your local mosque is always a good source for the correct times. In fact, it’s a good idea to double-check online times with the leaders at your local mosque.
How prayer times are calculated
Prayer times are calculated based on the position of the sun. Different institutions use different calculation methods. For example, you may see times based on methods developed by the Muslim World League (MWL) or the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA). These methods may differ slightly, especially when it comes to Fajr and Isha prayers. The Athan Clock relies on a different set of calculations.
Finding the Qibla Direction
When Muslims pray, they face the Kaaba, a holy building at the center of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The direction of the Kaaba is called the Qibla.
So, what direction is the Qibla from Portland, Maine? You’ll want to face approximately 61° from true north.
You can find the Qibla direction using a compass and protractor. Many websites and smartphone apps can also help you find the Qibla, no matter where you are.
Using Technology to Find Prayer Times
Several apps and websites can help you keep track of prayer times in Portland, Maine. One popular option is the Athan Clock app and website. It’s free to use and offers a number of customizable features.
With Athan Clock, you can change the display, choose your preferred language, and even add logos or weather information. There are many other apps and websites that offer similar services, so explore the options to find one that suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is prayer in Portland, Maine?
Prayer times in Portland, Maine, vary daily depending on the position of the sun. The most accurate way to find today’s prayer times is to use a reliable Islamic prayer app or website that uses your location. These resources calculate prayer times based on established Islamic principles. You can also consult with local mosques for their specific schedules.
What is the forbidden time for prayer today?
Islamic tradition identifies specific times when prayer (salat) is discouraged or forbidden. These times are generally around sunrise, when the sun is at its zenith (midday), and around sunset. It’s best to consult an Islamic scholar or a reliable prayer time resource to get the precise forbidden times for today in your location. These times are subject to slight variations.
What time is Asr Namaz in Bolton?
Asr prayer time in Bolton, United Kingdom, changes daily based on the sun’s position. To find the exact Asr time for today, it’s best to use a prayer time app or website specific to Bolton. Local mosques will also have prayer time schedules available. Remember, prayer times are calculated based on astronomical data, so relying on accurate local sources is crucial.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the correct prayer times is essential for Muslims in Portland, Maine, and throughout the world.
While apps and websites can be a convenient way to find salah times, remember that your local mosque is the most reliable source for accurate information.
We hope the resources we’ve shared will help you fulfill your religious obligations and enrich your spiritual life.