Learning to pray correctly according to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is one of the most important obligations upon every Muslim. In this installment of “The Prophet’s Prayer” series, the detailed description of sujud (prostration) is covered — the position in which a servant is closest to their Creator — along with the supplications and proper form that make this act of worship truly meaningful.
Sujud: The Closest You Will Ever Be to Allah
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The closest a servant is to his Lord is when he is in prostration — so increase your supplications in that position.” This powerful hadith teaches us that sujud is not merely a physical motion but a spiritual opportunity of the highest order. It is the moment to pour out your heart to Allah, to ask for forgiveness, and to make dua for yourself, your family, and the entire Muslim ummah.
“The closest a servant is to his Creator is in the position of sujud — so seize this opportunity and increase your supplications while prostrating before Allah.”
Proper Form and Supplications in Sujud
- Seven bones must touch the ground: the forehead (with nose), both palms, both knees, and both sets of toes
- Keep your elbows raised and away from your body — resting them on the ground resembles the sitting of a dog, which the Prophet warned against
- Toes and fingers should point toward the Qiblah while in prostration
- Say “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) at least once, and preferably three times or more
- Between the two prostrations, sit and recite: “Rabbighfirli, warhamni, warzuqni, wahdini” (My Lord, forgive me, have mercy on me, provide for me, and guide me)
“Subhanaka Allahumma Rabbana wa bihamdik, Allahumma ighfirli — Glory be to You, O Allah our Lord, and praise be to You. O Allah, forgive me.”
Seize Every Moment of Prostration
While Quran recitation is not permitted during sujud, personal supplication (dua) is strongly encouraged. You may pray for anything your heart desires in this blessed position. Some scholars note that Quranic verses phrased as supplications — such as “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah” — may be used as dua during prostration. The key is to make every sujud count, knowing that you are at the closest point to your Lord that a human being can reach.
