Alternative Spelling:
Sujud / Sajd / Sajood / Sajdah
What is Sujood?
- Sujood is the act of prostration performed during Islamic prayer, derived from the Arabic root s-j-d, which means "to prostrate" or "to humble oneself." In religious practice, Sujood involves placing the forehead, nose, both palms, knees, and toes on the ground, symbolizing complete submission and humility before Allah.
- Sujood holds immense theological significance as it is considered the closest position a believer can attain to Allah during worship. According to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it is a moment when supplications are most likely to be accepted, emphasizing the importance of humility and devotion in Islamic spirituality.
- Sujood is a fundamental component of the daily prayers and is referenced extensively in the Qur’an and Hadith literature. Islamic scholars throughout history have elaborated on its proper performance, etiquette, and the spiritual etiquette associated with it, highlighting its central role in the ritual acts of worship.
- Sujood embodies the spiritual essence of surrender and self-effacement before the Creator. It serves as a physical manifestation of a believer’s acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness and one’s own humility, fostering a deep sense of inner peace, reflection, and spiritual connection during prayer.
- Sujood is practiced by Muslims of all backgrounds in daily life, not only during the five obligatory prayers but also in voluntary acts of worship and moments of gratitude or distress. Its practical application reinforces discipline, mindfulness, and the continuous remembrance of Allah in both private and communal settings.
Examples of Sujood
- During Prayer: "Muslims perform Sujood in every unit of their daily prayers as an act of submission to Allah."
- Out of Gratitude: "After receiving good news, she made Sujood to thank Allah for His blessings."
- Following the Sunnah: "Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would often make Sujood when seeking closeness to Allah."
- In Recitation: "When reciting certain verses of the Quran, it is recommended to perform Sujood as a sign of humility."
- Seeking Forgiveness: "He turned to Allah in Sujood, asking for forgiveness and mercy."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is when he is in Sujood, so make plenty of supplication."
Sahih Muslim 482 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "When the son of Adam recites a verse of prostration and then performs Sujood, Satan withdraws, weeping and saying: 'Woe to me! The son of Adam was commanded to prostrate and he prostrated, so Paradise is his due. I was commanded to prostrate and I refused, so Hell is my due.'"
Sahih Muslim 81 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "I have been ordered to prostrate on seven bones: on the forehead—and he pointed with his hand to his nose—both hands, both knees, and the ends of the toes."
Sahih Bukhari 812 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Sujood
What does Sujood mean in English?
Sujood means prostration.
When should Muslims perform Sujood?
Muslims should perform Sujood during their daily prayers and at specific times such as when reciting certain verses of the Quran or out of gratitude to Allah.
How is Sujood performed?
Sujood is performed by placing the forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and the toes of both feet on the ground while glorifying Allah.
Why is Sujood considered important in Islam?
Sujood is considered important in Islam because it is a position of utmost humility and submission to Allah, and it was emphasized by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the closest position a servant can be to their Lord.
Are there different types of Sujood?
There are different types of Sujood, including Sujood in prayer, Sujood as-Sahw (prostration of forgetfulness), Sujood at-Tilawah (prostration upon reciting certain Quranic verses), and Sujood ash-Shukr (prostration of gratitude).
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