Sajdah

What is Sajdah?

Sajdah (also called sujud) is the prostration in prayer — the most humble of all postures, in which the worshipper lowers the highest part of the body, the face, to the ground before Allah. It is performed twice in every unit (rak'ah) of prayer and is a pillar without which the prayer is invalid. The Prophet ﷺ said: "The closest a servant is to his Lord is while he is prostrating, so increase in supplication" (Muslim 482).

The Seven Points of Prostration

The Prophet ﷺ said: "I have been commanded to prostrate on seven bones: the forehead — and he pointed to his nose — the two hands, the two knees, and the ends of the two feet" (Bukhari 812). All seven must be placed firmly on the ground. In this position the worshipper says, at least once and preferably three times, "Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la" ("Glory to my Lord, the Most High").

Its Spiritual Meaning

Allah says: "...and prostrate and draw near [to Allah]" (Quran 96:19). Sajdah is the ultimate act of submission: the believer places the face — the symbol of dignity and pride — on the earth, declaring that all greatness belongs to Allah alone. It is a moment of intimacy and supplication, where the heart is most open and the servant most beloved to his Lord.

• Two prostrations in every rak'ah; a pillar of the prayer.
• Performed on seven points of the body.
• Accompanied by Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la and personal supplication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sajdah al-tilawah?

It is the "prostration of recitation", a single prostration performed when one recites or hears certain verses of the Quran that mention prostration. It is a recommended act expressing submission to Allah's command, distinct from the prostrations within the prayer.

Why is sajdah considered so special?

Because it is the position of greatest humility and nearness to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ taught that the servant is closest to his Lord in sajdah, making it the best moment to pour out one's heart in supplication.