Salah (prayer) is the most important act of worship in Islam and a direct connection between a believer and Allah. Performing Salah correctly, according to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), ensures its acceptance and brings countless rewards.
This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to perform Salah according to the Sunnah, following the authentic teachings of Ahl-e-Hadith. We have also included a detailed YouTube video demonstrating the correct method for better understanding.
The Importance of Offering Salah Properly
Salah is the second pillar of Islam and a key indicator of faith. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Pray as you have seen me praying.” (Sahih Bukhari)
By following the Sunnah way of prayer, believers ensure that their Salah is valid, spiritually fulfilling, and rewarded by Allah.
Conditions Before Salah
Before offering Salah, a Muslim must ensure the following:
- Purification (Wudu or Ghusl) – Perform proper Wudu (ablution) or Ghusl (full-body purification) if required.
- Facing the Qiblah – Stand facing the Ka’bah in Makkah.
- Wearing Clean Clothes – Clothing must be modest and free from impurities.
- Performing Salah on Time – Pray within the prescribed times for each Salah.
- Having Sincerity (Niyyah) – Make an intention in the heart that you are praying for the sake of Allah.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Salah (Sunnah Way)
Below is the correct method of performing Salah according to the Sunnah:
1. Start with Takbir (Takbir al-Ihram)
- Stand straight facing the Qiblah.
- Raise both hands to the level of the shoulders or ears, saying:
Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest).
2. Recite Surah Al-Fatihah & Another Surah
- Place the right hand over the left hand on the chest.
- Begin with:
Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabarakasmuka, wa ta’ala jadduka, wa la ilaha ghayruk. - Recite Surah Al-Fatihah (The Opening) completely.
- Recite any additional Surah, such as Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, or Surah Al-Nas.
3. Perform Ruku (Bowing)
- Say Allahu Akbar and bow, ensuring the back is straight and hands rest on the knees.
- Recite three times:
Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem (Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great).
4. Stand Up from Ruku (I’tidal)
- Rise while saying:
Sami’ Allahu liman hamidah (Allah hears those who praise Him). - Then say:
Rabbana wa lakal-hamd (Our Lord, all praise belongs to You).
5. Perform Sujood (Prostration)
- Say Allahu Akbar and go into prostration, placing forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes on the ground.
- Recite three times:
Subhana Rabbiyal A’la (Glory is to my Lord, the Most High).
6. Sit Between Sujood (Jalsa)
- Sit up from Sujood with feet folded and place hands on thighs.
- Say:
Rabbighfir li, Rabbighfir li (O my Lord, forgive me).
7. Perform Second Sujood
- Repeat the Sujood in the same way.
8. Stand Up for the Next Rak’ah
- Rise for the second Rak’ah and repeat steps 2-7.
9. Recite Tashahhud in the Last Sitting
- After completing the second Rak’ah (for Fajr) or the fourth Rak’ah (for Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha), sit and recite:
At-tahiyyatu lillahi wa salawatu wa tayyibat… (complete Tashahhud).
10. Recite Durood and Supplications
- Recite the Durood Ibrahim:
Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala aali Muhammadin… (complete Durood). - End with supplications before concluding Salah.
11. Conclude with Salam
- Turn the head to the right and say:
As-salamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah. - Then turn to the left and repeat:
As-salamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullah.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not following the correct posture – Ensure proper Ruku, Sujood, and standing position.
- Rushing through Salah – Salah should be performed with calmness and devotion.
- Incorrect recitation – Memorize the correct Surahs and supplications.
- Neglecting Tashahhud in the final sitting – Ensure it is recited completely.
- Not focusing in Salah – Concentrate on the meanings of the recitations to improve khushu (humility).
Video Guide: Sunnah Way of Performing Salah
For a visual demonstration, watch this authentic step-by-step video on Salah:
Conclusion
Salah is the most essential act of worship in Islam, and offering it correctly ensures its acceptance. By following the Sunnah method, believers align themselves with the practice of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and strengthen their connection with Allah.
May Allah accept our prayers and grant us steadfastness in worship. Ameen.