Grade 4 islamic religious education DEVOTIONAL ACTS – Swalath Notes

DEVOTIONAL ACTS — Swalath (Salawat)

Specific learning outcomes (simplified)

• a) Describe how congregational and Sunnah prayers are done to earn rewards (examples: Tahajud, Tahiyatul Masjid, Dhuha).
• b) Describe special prayers and when they are done (Janaza, Musafir, Kusuf/khusuf) to receive Allah (S.W.T.)’s blessing.
• c) Perform congregational, Sunnah, and special prayers for spiritual nourishment.
• d) Explain why these prayers bring rewards from Allah (S.W.T.).
• e) Appreciate performing these prayers as obeying Allah (S.W.T.)’s command.

What is Swalath (Salawat)?

Swalath (also spelled Salawat) means sending blessings and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is an act of love and respect and brings reward from Allah (S.W.T.). Muslims often say special phrases to ask Allah to bless the Prophet.

Common short phrases

Longer Salawat (use for learning)

Why do we send Salawat?

• It shows love and respect for the Prophet (PBUH).
• It is a cause of blessings and forgiveness from Allah (S.W.T.).
• It raises the believer’s good deeds and helps when making du'a (supplication).
• It is recommended at certain times (e.g., after the Adhan, in prayers, on Fridays).

When to say Salawat (simple guide)

• After hearing the Adhan (call to prayer).
• When the Prophet's name is mentioned.
• During and after Tahajud and other voluntary (Sunnah) prayers.
• On Fridays, and before or after making du'a.

How to say it (for 9-year-olds)

1. Learn one short phrase well: "Sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam."
2. Say it clearly and with respect (silently or softly out loud).
3. You can join others in congregation: teacher or imam says, and everyone sends Salawat.

Link to the specific learning outcomes

• Describing prayers (a & b): Explain that Salawat is often done during congregational and Sunnah prayers like Tahajud and after the Adhan.
• Performing (c): Practice saying Salawat during class prayer times and at home for spiritual growth.
• Assessing importance (d): Talk about rewards and feelings of closeness to Allah (S.W.T.) and the Prophet.
• Appreciation (e): Remind learners that obeying this recommended act shows love for Allah’s command and His Messenger.

Suggested learning activities (classroom & home)

1. Group recitation: Teacher leads the class in saying Salawat together (first aloud, then softly).
2. Memorise and show: Each child memorises the short phrase and writes the transliteration on a small card to keep.
3. Role play: Simulate Adhan; when teacher finishes, students say Salawat once and count how many times they can say it in one minute.
4. Art activity: Make a colorful "Salawat" card with the phrase (no pictures of prophets) to give to family members.
5. Reflection: At the end of the week, learners share how saying Salawat made them feel (calm, close to Allah, respectful).

Assessment ideas (simple)

• Oral check: Can the learner say the short Salawat and give a simple meaning?
• Observation: Does the learner join Salawat after Adhan or in class prayer times?
• Short written task: Draw or write one reason why we say Salawat.

Classroom safety & respectful reminders

• Do not draw the Prophet (PBUH) — use words and calligraphy only.
• Teach correct pronunciation gently; praise effort and improvement.
• Respect differences: some children may say Salawat silently; allow both options.