Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to the twenty-first part of our blessed series exploring prayer in Islam. Today, we’ll discuss how Sujud (prostration) should be performed, following the footsteps of our righteous predecessors. We’ll explore how this sacred act brings together complete submission to ALLAH while elevating our spiritual status. Click here to read the entire series, ALLAH willing.
The Profound Significance of Sujud: An Act of Ultimate Humility
Sujud is the final and most significant part of the prayer, as highlighted by Ibn al-Qayyim. Everything leading up to Sujud serves as preparation for this profound act. During this moment, we gather our hearts and focus on entering this state, which is considered the highest state one can reach in this world.
The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) said,
“The closest that the slave comes to his LORD is when he is prostrating, so invoke ALLAH much (in prostration)”1
When you prostrate, you place your forehead and nose—the most honored parts of your body—on the ground for ALLAH. This act is a profound expression of humility, as you lower these parts to the dust and say to ALLAH, “O LORD, may YOU be pleased as I place my face and nose on the ground for YOUR sake”. This deep humility is beautifully captured in the following verse:
“O that YOU would be pleased while others are angry,
And that which is between YOU and me be flourish,
While between me and the world, it is desolate.
When YOUR love is true, everything becomes easy,
For all that is above the earth is mere dust“
The Humility of Sujud: Rising Through Submission
In this moment, you are in the most humbling position possible. The word ‘‘anafa’ (pride) comes from ‘‘anf’ (nose), symbolizing honor and dignity. In Sujud, you press this very symbol of pride to the ground for ALLAH. Embrace this moment fully—you are humbling and submitting yourself to ALLAH in the hope of gaining HIS pleasure. While you are in this lowly state, you are, in reality, in the highest position with ALLAH.
The more a servant humbles themselves before HIM, the more they are elevated and drawn closer to HIM. This is why, during prostration, you say, “Subhana Rabbi Al-A’la”2 (“Glorious is my LORD the Most High”). You acknowledge that while you are at your lowest, ALLAH is the Most High, the Greatest, beyond all comparison.
Sujud as a Place of Forgiveness and Blessings
In prostration, you acknowledge your mistakes and sins before ALLAH. You admit your wrongs and seek HIS forgiveness while bowing your head and back, placing your face, forehead, and nose on the ground in humility, hoping for HIS pleasure. Sujud embodies humility and submission, and a believer should feel these meanings deeply in this sacred position so that their heart is fully devoted to ALLAH.
The Prophet (Peace be upon Him) said,
“The closest that the slave comes to his LORD is when he is prostrating, so invoke ALLAH much (in prostration)”3
Many challenges and hardships have been lifted in Sujud, many debts cleared, children guided, marriages restored, and hearts healed.
Ibn al-Qayyim said,
“If a servant knew what mercy descends upon them during Sujud, they would never lift their head from the ground”
Sujud is where ALLAH’s gifts and blessings flow upon you.
Sujud: A Sanctuary for Solving Life’s Struggles
Every problem in life can find its solution in Sujud. Present your struggles and lay them before ALLAH, and HE will take care of them, lift them, and resolve them for you. Every person faces difficulties and carries burdens—no one is free from challenges. We are surrounded by sins, struggles, and trials, and our hearts often feel heavy.
ALLAH, the All-Knowing, says,
“And WE already know that your breast is constrained by what they say. So exalt [ALLAH] with praise of your LORD and be of those who prostrate [to HIM]. And worship your LORD until there comes to you the certainty [i.e., death]“4
(Suraat ‘Al-Hijr, 15:97:99)
While you are in Sujud, trust that problems are being resolved, hardships are being lifted, and peace and blessings are descending upon you. You may not fully comprehend or see the extent of ALLAH’s mercy and kindness, but it is always present.
This is the state where solutions appear, sustenance is provided, and tranquility and blessings fill your life.
Sources:
- Dr. Ahmed ElAraby. فاهم 36 | سلسلة تذوق العبادات – (1) الصلاة | مع د. أحمد العربي. YouTube Video.
