Q&A

Sunnahs of Prayer (Salat)

The Sunnahs of prayer are the prophetic actions and sayings that are recommended to perform during prayer. They are called Sunnah because they follow the practice of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and represent following his example in worship. Important Sunnahs include:

1. Opening Supplication (Dua al-Istiftah):
   Before starting the prayer, it is recommended to recite the opening supplication, asking Allah for acceptance and guidance in the prayer.
2. Raising the Hands:
   Raising the hands is recommended at the beginning of the prayer with Takbir al-Ihram, during bowing (ruku’), and upon rising from bowing.
3. Reciting a Surah after Al-Fatiha:
   It is recommended to recite a Surah from the Qur’an after Al-Fatiha in the rak’ahs where recitation is performed; this is a confirmed Sunnah.
4. Supplication Between the Two Prostrations:
   It is recommended to make personal supplications between the two prostrations, asking Allah for good.
5. First Tashahhud:
   Reciting the first tashahhud in prayer is Sunnah; it includes the testimony of faith and sending blessings on the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
6. Witr Prayer:
   Performing the Witr prayer at the end of the night is considered a confirmed Sunnah.

By following these Sunnahs, the prayer is performed correctly, and one emulates the practice of the Prophet ﷺ in worship.