The Basic Steps of Salah (Prayer) According to the Qur’an
Salah (prayer) is the most important act of worship in Islam. The Qur’an describes the essential components of Salah through clear commands, focusing on devotion, humility, and physical acts of worship. While detailed formats are explained in the Sunnah, the Qur’an establishes the core steps of prayer.
Allah Almighty says:
“Establish the prayer for My remembrance.”
(Surah Ta-Ha, 20:14)
This verse shows that the purpose of Salah is remembrance of Allah, carried out through specific acts mentioned in the Qur’an.
Core Steps of Salah According to the Qur’an
1. Standing Before Allah (Qiyam)
Prayer begins by standing before Allah in humility and focus.
Allah says:
“And stand before Allah in devout obedience.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:238)
Standing represents respect, submission, and readiness for worship.
2. Recitation of the Qur’an
During prayer, the Qur’an is recited as an essential act.
Allah says:
“Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer.”
(Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:45)
This recitation connects the believer directly with the words of Allah.
3. Bowing (Ruku‘)
Bowing is an act of humility, acknowledging Allah’s greatness.
Allah says:
“O you who believe, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord.”
(Surah Al-Hajj, 22:77)
4. Prostration (Sujud)
Prostration is the highest form of submission to Allah.
Allah says:
“Prostrate and draw near to Allah.”
(Surah Al-‘Alaq, 96:19)
In this position, a believer is closest to Allah in humility.
5. Sitting During Prayer
The Qur’an indicates different postures in prayer, including sitting.
Allah says:
“Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:191)
This verse shows that Salah includes multiple physical positions.
6. Completion of the Prayer
Prayer concludes with remembrance of Allah and calmness.
Allah says:
“And when you have finished the prayer, remember Allah.”
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:103)
This highlights that Salah ends with continued awareness of Allah.
Purpose of Salah
Allah explains the goal of prayer clearly:
“Indeed, prayer prevents immorality and wrongdoing.”
(Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:45)
Salah is meant to purify the heart and guide a person toward righteousness.
Conclusion
According to the Qur’an, Salah consists of standing, reciting the Qur’an, bowing, prostrating, sitting, and completing the prayer with remembrance of Allah. These steps form the Qur’anic foundation of prayer, emphasizing humility, obedience, and constant connection with Allah.
Understanding Salah through the Qur’an helps believers focus on its true purpose: sincere worship and remembrance of Allah.
