In Chapter 1, “Canonical Prayer and Supplication, Development, and
Rules,” Katz traces the etymology of the term’s linguistic origin, historic significance,
and pre-Islamic meaning. She quotes Q. 31:17 to show that it was
not used exclusively in reference to monotheism or the Abrahamic faiths. Șalāt
is explained both in terms of the prayer’s religious content and physical postures.
Its validity is discussed and shown to be dependent upon several conditions,
such as the knowledge of specific times, ritual purity, orientation to
Makkah, and intention. The prayer components (arkān) are also dealt with in
detail….
American Journal of Islamic Social Sciences