Sunnahs of Prayer
The Chapter of Prayer
Sunnahs of Prayer
After learning about the obligatory acts and duties of prayer,
we now turn to the Sunnahs of prayer,
which complete the prayer, increase its reward,
and help the worshipper achieve humility and presence of heart.
First: What Are the Sunnahs of Prayer?
The Sunnahs of prayer are: Words and actions that the Prophet ﷺ used to perform during prayer.
The one who performs them is rewarded,
and the prayer is not invalidated by leaving them.
Leaving the Sunnahs:
Does not invalidate the prayer
Is not compensated by Sujood As-Sahw
But it reduces the reward and completeness of the prayer
Second: The Difference Between Obligatory Acts, Duties, and Sunnahs (Quick Review)
Obligatory act / Pillar:
Prayer is not valid without it.
Duty:
Prayer is invalidated if left intentionally,
and is compensated by Sujood As-Sahw if left unintentionally.
Sunnah:
Prayer is not invalidated by leaving it,
and it is not compensated by Sujood As-Sahw.
Third: Types of Sunnahs of Prayer
The Sunnahs of prayer are divided into two main categories:
1) Verbal Sunnahs
Such as:
The opening supplication (Du‘a al-Istiftah)
Seeking refuge with Allah (Isti‘adhah)
Saying Bismillah
Saying Ameen
Reciting a surah after Al-Fatihah
Additional glorification in bowing and prostration
Sending prayers upon the Prophet ﷺ in the final tashahhud beyond what is obligatory
2) Physical Sunnahs
Such as:
Raising the hands during:
The opening takbir
Bowing
Rising from bowing
Placing the right hand over the left
Looking at the place of prostration
Sitting in iftirash and tawarruk
Pointing with the index finger during tashahhud
The brief sitting after the second prostration in the first unit
Fourth: Why Are the Sunnahs of Prayer Important?
Because they:
Complete the form of prayer
Strengthen humility and focus
Bring the worshipper closer to the way of the Prophet ﷺ
Transform prayer from a mere action into a living act of worship
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Pray as you have seen me pray.”
Fifth: Is a Person Accountable for Leaving the Sunnahs?
There is no sin in leaving them
But the reward and completeness are reduced
Consistency in performing them is a sign of love and adherence
Common Questions
Does forgetting the opening supplication affect the prayer?
No. The prayer is valid, and no Sujood As-Sahw is required.
Is reciting a surah after Al-Fatihah obligatory?
No. It is a confirmed Sunnah.
Is raising the hands during bowing obligatory?
No. It is a Sunnah established from the Prophet ﷺ.
Summary: Sunnahs of Prayer
Sunnahs of prayer complete and beautify the prayer
Leaving them does not invalidate the prayer
Observing them increases reward and humility
Following the Sunnahs is a sign of love for the Prophet ﷺ
Madrasat Al-Quran
We teach prayer as the Prophet ﷺ performed it,
because perfection in worship lies in following his guidance.