Salah (Prayer) – Movements & Words
Step-by-Step Salah: Section 3.2
Each unit of prayer (rakʿah) includes a series of physical positions, each with specific words and meanings. They are acts of obedience, humility, and submission to Allah. Before Takbir al-Ihram here’s how each position is performed:
1. Qiyam (Standing)
Stand upright, facing the Qiblah with calm focus.
Recite Surat al-Fatihah followed by another passage from the Qur’an (in the first two rakʿahs of most prayers).
This position reflects readiness, attentiveness, and the opening connection with Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“There is no prayer for the one who does not recite the Opening of the Book [al-Fatihah].” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
2. Rukuʿ (Bowing)
Say “Allahu akbar” and bow forward, placing your hands on your knees and
keeping your back straight.
In this posture, you praise Allah’s greatness with humility.
Remain still, showing deep respect and submission.
3. Qiyam After Rukuʿ (Standing Again)
Rise from bowing with calmness, saying praises.
This moment acknowledges Allah’s response to His servant’s praise and gratitude.
4. Sujud (Prostration)
Say “Allahu akbar” and go into full prostration with your forehead, nose, hands, knees, and toes touching the ground.
This is the most humble position in salah. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The closest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is in prostration…” (Sahih Muslim)
5. Jalsah (Sitting Between the Two Sujuds)
Sit up briefly between the two sujuds.
This pause reflects balance, mercy, and seeking forgiveness.
6. Second Sujud
Repeat the full prostration.
A moment to renew closeness and submission before rising again.
7. Transition to Next Rakʿah or Final sitting
After completing the second sujud, you transition depending on which rakʿah you are in:
If it’s not the Final rakʿah, stand up for the next unit (rakʿah) by saying “Allahu akbar”.
If it’s the Second rakʿah (in prayers with more than two rakʿahs), you remain seated briefly for the Tashahhud. After reciting it, you rise for the third rakʿah.
If it’s the Final rakʿah (e.g., second in Fajr, third in Maghrib, or fourth in Dhuhr, ʿAsr, or ʿIshaʼ), you remain seated to complete the Tashahhud + Salawat and finish the prayer with the Taslim.