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Unlocking the Power of Dua in Sujood

A Guide for Every Muslim

Unlock the power of supplication in sujood with our comprehensive guide. Learn how to connect with Allah through heartfelt dua in your daily prayers. Perfect for new reverts and born Muslims seeking a deeper connection with their faith.

Islam, a religion deeply rooted in prayers and supplications, offers believers unique moments to connect with Allah. One such profound moment is during sujood (prostration).

Whether your’re a born Muslim or new revert, understanding the etiquettes of making dua (supplication) in sujood can be invaluable, and powerful!

The Special Nature of Sujood

Sujood is the moment in prayer when a Muslim is closest to Allah SWT. 
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"The servant is nearest to his Lord when he is prostrating, so make plenty of supplication"

(Sahih Muslim, 482)
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This emphasizes the significance and uniqueness of this position in salah (prayer).

Making Dua in Any Sujood

It's essential to understand that making dua in sujood is not restricted to a particular sujood during our prayer. 
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"There is no Muslim servant who makes a supplication, in which there is no sin or severing of family ties, but that Allah will grant him because of it one of three things: either He will grant him an immediate response, or He will store it up for him in the Hereafter, or He will divert an equivalent evil away from him" 

Musnad of Imam Ahmad.
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Thus, any sujood, whether in obligatory or voluntary prayers, is a time to ask Allah SWT sincerely.

Using Native Language for Dua & Best Practices

Permissible or not?

If you’re a new reverts who may not be fluent in Arabic, there's flexibility. If you want to make dua in your native language, especially if you don't know how to phrase your supplication in Arabic, it's preferable to do so silently, in your heart, as Allah SWT is All-Knowing. 

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However, it's essential to understand that the act of worship in salah is of a liturgical and regulatory nature, meaning it must be performed according to the prescribed manner taught by Islamic law. Malik bin Huwairith (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"Pray as you have seen me praying."
Sahih al-Bukhari (7246)
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The Prophet (ﷺ) also said:
"Allah, the Exalted, is Hayyiy (Shy), Generous; He feels shy from a servant who raises his hands towards Him in supplication to turn them away empty."
(Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)
This highlights Allah's boundless mercy. Moreover, the best practice for supplication is by reciting prayers mentioned in the Qur'an and Sahih Hadith, like "Subhana Rabia'alah" (Glory is to my Lord, the Most High). An example from the Qur'an is:

Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina 'adhaban-nar

Qur'an 2:201
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Meaning:

"Our Lord! Give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and defend us from the torment of the Fire!"

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It is known that non-Arab companions like Salman al-Farisi (RA) did not pray in their native languages, such as Persian; rather, they learned and worshiped in Arabic. No scholars have allowed supplications in languages other than Arabic during sujud in solat, except for opinions that are less mainstream and somewhat unconventional. If someone does not know Arabic, they can simply make supplications in a language they understand in their hearts.

Furthermore, it is encouraging for individuals to learn Arabic, particularly the meanings and pronunciation used in solat, as it can enhance the spiritual experience and lead to greater concentration (khushu) in prayer.

Leading the Prayer

When leading the prayer, it's considerate to ensure that the sujood is kept simple. This stems from mindfulness for the congregation praying behind you.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"When any one of you leads the people in prayer, he should be brief for among them are the young and the old, the weak, and those who have pressing needs. But when he prays alone, he may make it as lengthy as he likes." 

(Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)
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Dua Before Tasleem (End of Prayer)

before turning for your Salam

After the tashahhud and before ending the prayer with tasleem, it is Sunnah to seek refuge from four things, and then one can make any du'a of choice.

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Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA): 

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) used to invoke (Allah in the prayer) by saying, "Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min 'adhabil-qabr, wa a'udhu bika min fitnatil-masihid-dajjal, wa a'udhu bika min fitnatil-mahya wa fitnatil-mamat. Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-ma'thami wal-maghram."

(An-Nasa'i, 918)
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Meaning:

"O Allah, I seek refuge in You from the punishment of the grave, the trials of the false messiah (Dajjal), the challenges of life and death, and from sins and debt."

Etiquette While Making Dua

An act of mindfulness, and Sunnah

Dua, the act of supplicating to the Creator, is a profound and cherished practice in Islam. As believers, we are encouraged to approach Allah with humility, sincerity, and deep reverence. 

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What does the Qur'an said? 
"Invoke your Lord with humility and in secret. He does not like the aggressors."

Surah Al-A'raf, Ayah 205

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Esteemed scholars like Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) and Al-Jalalayn (rahimahumallah) shed light on the core principle of calling upon Allah with true humility and in moments of seclusion. Their interpretations also sound a note of caution against overreaching, especially when seeking that which is forbidden or inconsistent with the Magnificence of Allah SWT.

Allah SWT further mentioned in the Qur'an

"And remember your Lord within yourself in humility and in fear without being apparent in speech - in the mornings and the evenings. And do not be among the heedless."

Surah Al-A'raf, Ayah 205

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In their insightful commentaries, both Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) and Al-Jalalayn (rahimahumallah) highlight the emphasis on quietly and persistently remembering Allah SWT, especially in the tranquil moments of dawn and dusk. Such acts of devotion must become second nature to steer clear of neglect.

THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD (ﷺ) GUIDANCE ON SUPPLICATION

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Being Resolute

Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari (radi Allahu anhu) reported the guidance of the Prophet (ﷺ): 
"When one of you prays, he should not say: 'O Allah, forgive me if You wish, have mercy on me if You wish,' but he should be resolute in his supplication."

(Sahih al-Bukhari)

Recognizing Allah SWT's Attributes

While there is mention of the Prophet (ﷺ) reminding believers of Allah's nearness and omnipresence, it's essential to cite a specific hadith for full authenticity. Nevertheless, it is understood in Islamic teachings that supplications are not just ritualistic; they are profound heart-to-heart communications with an ever-observant and attentive Allah SWT.
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CONCLUSION

Embracing Islam offers moments of reflection, connection, and spiritual growth. Making dua during sujood is a cherished opportunity to seek closeness to Allah SWT, ask for guidance, or express gratitude. As new reverts grow in their understanding and practice, these moments of prostration will undoubtedly become foundational to their faith journey.

Wallahu a'lam.
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NOTES | DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this article is based on multiple reliable sources, including reference from Pejabat Mufti Wilayah Persekutuan. It is intended to serve as a general overview and guide, particularly for new Muslims, and is not intended for academic or scholarly purposes.

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, readers are advised to consult with knowledgeable scholars or religious authorities for specific and detailed religious matters. If you find any errors or discrepancies in the content, please do not hesitate to contact us so that we may rectify them. Our goal is to provide a helpful and informative resource for those seeking guidance on matters of faith and worship.

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