What is the difference between establishing prayer (iqāmat aṣ-ṣalāh), perpetuating prayer (idāmat aṣ-ṣalāh), and maintaining prayer (al-muḥāfaẓah ʿalā aṣ-ṣalāh)?

Allah Almighty mentioned in Surat Al-Ma'arij the characteristics of the people of Paradise, among which is perseverance in prayer and its observance. It is also with prayer that the deeds of the successful in Surat Al-Mu'minoon begin and end.

As for the difference between perseverance (الدوام) and observance (المحافظة), it has been said: 1. Perseverance (الدوام): It is the continuous performance of prayer and not abandoning it, and paying attention to it so that it is performed perfectly. Perseverance may also mean the stillness of the limbs and tranquility in prayer. 2. Observance (المحافظة): It means paying attention to performing ablution thoroughly, adhering to its prescribed times, establishing its pillars, completing it with its Sunnahs and etiquette, and safeguarding it from being nullified by sins. Observance includes preserving the prayer times and not being distracted from them, and taking care of it to avoid any defect in its perfection. Some scholars have held that the repeated mention of both terms is a form of emphasis, with an added meaning, where perseverance is not abandoning prayer, and observance is caring for the prayer from anything that compromises its perfection.