Salatul Tasbih, also known as the Prayer of Tasbih, is a special prayer in Islam believed to hold immense spiritual benefits. It's a sunnah (recommended) prayer, meaning it's not obligatory, but performing it is highly encouraged for its potential rewards. This detailed guide will walk you through the complete process of praying Salatut Tasbih.
What is Salatut Tasbih?
Salatul Tasbih is a four-rak'ah prayer where the glorification of Allah (سبحان الله) – "SubhanAllah" – is repeated many times throughout the prayer. This constant remembrance of Allah is believed to cleanse the heart and bring the worshipper closer to God. The specific number of repetitions of "SubhanAllah," "Alhamdulillah," and "Allahu Akbar" within each rak'ah is what distinguishes this prayer.
How to Perform Salatut Tasbih: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Intention (Niyyah): Before starting, make the intention in your heart to perform Salatut Tasbih. This sets your focus and purpose for the prayer.
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First Rak'ah:
- Recite the opening takbir ("Allahu Akbar").
- Recite Surah Al-Fatiha.
- Recite any other Surah of your choice.
- Perform the Ruku' (bowing). While in Ruku', say "Subhan Rabbiyal-'Adheem" (Glory be to my Lord, the Supreme) 15 times.
- Rise from Ruku'.
- Perform the Sujud (prostration). While in Sujud, say "Subhan Rabbiyal-A'la" (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) 10 times.
- Sit up between the two prostrations.
- Perform the second Sujud, again saying "Subhan Rabbiyal-A'la" 10 times.
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Second Rak'ah:
- Recite the opening takbir ("Allahu Akbar").
- Recite Surah Al-Fatiha.
- Recite any other Surah of your choice.
- Perform the Ruku', saying "Subhan Rabbiyal-'Adheem" 15 times.
- Rise from Ruku'.
- Perform the Sujud, saying "Subhan Rabbiyal-A'la" 10 times.
- Sit up between the two prostrations.
- Perform the second Sujud, saying "Subhan Rabbiyal-A'la" 10 times.
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Third and Fourth Rak'ahs: Repeat steps 2 & 3 for the third and fourth rak'ahs. However, after reciting Surah Al-Fatiha in the third and fourth rak'ahs, you should sit and recite the following:
- Subhan Allah walhamdulillah wa la ilaha illallah wallahu akbar: (Glory be to Allah, and all praise be to Him, and there is no god but Allah, and Allah is the greatest) – 10 times
- Allahummaghfirli warhamni wa'aafini warzuqni: (O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, grant me well-being, and provide for me) – 10 times
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Taslim (Salutation): After completing the four rak'ahs, say the Taslim (peace) by turning your head to the right and saying "Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullah" (peace be upon you and the mercy of Allah), and then turning to the left and saying the same.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of praying Salatut Tasbih?
The benefits of praying Salatut Tasbih are primarily spiritual. It's believed to increase one's closeness to Allah, cleanse the heart, and bring spiritual purification. It fosters a deep connection with God through the constant remembrance and glorification of His names.
Can I pray Salatut Tasbih at any time of the day?
While there isn't a specific time restriction, many prefer to pray Salatut Tasbih after Fajr (dawn) prayer or Isha (night) prayer, as these are times of spiritual reflection. However, you can pray it at any time you find suitable.
What if I forget the number of repetitions during the prayer?
If you accidentally forget the number of repetitions, try your best to estimate and continue. The intention and sincerity are what matters most. Don't let a mistake discourage you from continuing the prayer.
Is it obligatory to say the extra supplications (duas) after the Fatiha in the 3rd and 4th rak'ahs?
While the extra supplications are part of the traditional Salatut Tasbih, the core of the prayer lies in the consistent repetition of "SubhanAllah," "Alhamdulillah," and "Allahu Akbar." If you prefer to shorten the prayer, omitting these is permissible, though it reduces the overall benefits and adherence to the traditional method.
What happens if I miss a repetition?
Again, strive for sincerity and don't let minor slip-ups disrupt your devotion. Simply continue with the prayer, and make up for any missed repetitions later through additional dhikr (remembrance) of Allah.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of how to pray Salatut Tasbih. Remember, sincerity and intention are key elements in any act of worship. May Allah accept your prayers.
