Algeria is preparing to hold nationwide prayers for rain, known as Salat al-Istisqa, on Saturday, November 1st, 2025, following a significant delay in rainfall across most regions of the country. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Endowments has instructed all its directorates across the nation’s wilayas (provinces) to organize the special prayers at major mosques and prayer grounds starting at 9:00 AM. This initiative aims to invoke divine intervention and alleviate the ongoing drought conditions affecting agriculture, water resources, and the overall well-being of the population.
The Ministry’s announcement, disseminated through official correspondence, emphasizes the significance of reviving the Sunnah (tradition) of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who would turn to prayer and supplication during times of drought. The Ministry’s statement quoted a supplication attributed to the Prophet: “O Allah, send us rain that is abundant, beneficial, healthy, and widespread, advantageous and not harmful, immediate and not delayed,” a prayer documented in the authoritative collections of Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. This invocation underscores the deep-rooted Islamic tradition of seeking divine assistance during times of hardship and natural calamities.
Beyond the ritualistic aspect of the prayer, the Ministry has stressed the importance of spiritual preparation and collective repentance. Citizens are being urged to engage in acts of repentance (Tawbah) and seek forgiveness (Istighfar) for their shortcomings. Furthermore, the Ministry emphasizes the necessity of rectifying any injustices, fulfilling obligations, and strengthening familial bonds (Silat al-Rahim). Acts of charity (Sadaqah) and fasting are also encouraged, particularly for those who are able, as these acts embody the values of compassion, solidarity, and mutual support within the community. By fostering a spirit of unity and shared responsibility, the Ministry hopes to create an atmosphere conducive to the acceptance of prayers and the alleviation of the drought.
Imams across the country have been tasked with utilizing Friday sermons and religious lessons in mosques to educate congregants about the rulings and etiquette surrounding Salat al-Istisqa. They are expected to encourage worshippers to turn to Allah with sincerity and humility during these blessed days, seeking His mercy and forgiveness. The sermons will likely cover the importance of water conservation, responsible resource management, and the environmental impact of human actions, connecting the spiritual dimension of prayer with practical measures to address the challenges of drought.
The Ministry’s statement included a specific supplication to be recited during the prayers: “O Allah, send us rain and do not make us among the despairing. O Allah, send down upon us blessings from the heavens, and grow for us from the good of the earth, and make it rain of mercy, not rain of punishment.” This prayer encapsulates the hope for benevolent and life-sustaining rainfall that will benefit the land and its people. It reflects a plea for divine mercy and protection from the potential consequences of prolonged drought.
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The call for Salat al-Istisqa comes at a critical time for Algeria, as the country faces increasing challenges related to water scarcity. The prolonged dry spell has impacted agricultural yields, affecting food security and the livelihoods of farmers. Water reservoirs have been depleted, leading to restrictions on water usage in some areas. The government has been implementing various measures to address the water crisis, including investing in desalination plants, improving irrigation systems, and promoting water conservation practices. However, the reliance on rainfall remains crucial, particularly for rain-fed agriculture, which is a significant source of food production in many regions.
The upcoming prayers represent a collective expression of faith and a plea for divine assistance in overcoming the challenges posed by the drought. It is an opportunity for the Algerian people to unite in prayer, seek forgiveness, and reaffirm their commitment to responsible stewardship of natural resources. The success of the prayers, however, will depend not only on divine intervention but also on the collective efforts of individuals, communities, and the government to implement sustainable water management strategies and adapt to the changing climate. Beyond the immediate need for rain, the current situation highlights the importance of long-term planning, investment in water infrastructure, and the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices to ensure water security for future generations.
Analysts suggest that the government’s decision to call for nationwide prayers also serves as a unifying force, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared expression of faith and hope. In times of adversity, such collective rituals can strengthen social cohesion and provide a sense of comfort and resilience. The event is expected to be widely attended, with mosques and prayer grounds across the country preparing to accommodate large numbers of worshippers. Security measures will likely be in place to ensure the safety and well-being of participants. The prayers will be broadcast on national television and radio, allowing those unable to attend in person to participate remotely.
The focus on spiritual reflection and charitable acts leading up to the prayers further underscores the holistic approach being taken to address the drought. By encouraging individuals to examine their own actions and contribute to the well-being of others, the Ministry aims to create a more just and compassionate society, better equipped to face the challenges of the future. The emphasis on repentance and forgiveness is particularly relevant in the context of environmental stewardship, as it encourages individuals to reflect on their impact on the environment and take steps to reduce their ecological footprint. The upcoming Salat al-Istisqa is thus more than just a prayer for rain; it is a call for collective action, spiritual renewal, and a renewed commitment to responsible stewardship of the earth’s resources.
