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.