Namaz (Salat) is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam, representing a vital act of worship in the life of every Muslim. More than just a ritual, it serves as a spiritual connection with Allah, bringing peace and guidance. In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to perform Namaz in the Sunni way, covering every essential part including Wudu (Ablution), Ghusl (Purification Bath), and the proper steps of Namaz with translation and transliteration in English.
What is Namaz?
Namaz, or Salat, is the obligatory act of worship in Islam that involves formal prayer. Muslims are required to perform this prayer five times daily at specific times: Fajr (dawn), Dhuhr (midday), Asr (afternoon), Maghrib (sunset), and Isha (night). Each prayer consists of specific steps that include recitation of Quranic verses, bowing (Ruku), and prostration (Sujood).
Importance of Wudu (Ablution)
Before performing Namaz, a Muslim must be in a state of purity through Wudu. Wudu is the Islamic procedure for washing specific body parts—hands, mouth, nostrils, face, arms, head, and feet. This purification process is essential for the acceptance of prayer.
Steps of Wudu:
- Begin with the intention (Niyyah) of performing Wudu.
- Say Bismillah(In the name of Allah).
- Wash your hands up to the wrists three times.
- Rinse your mouth three times.
- Clean your nostrils by inhaling water gently and blowing it out three times.
- Wash your face three times.
- Wash your arms up to the elbows three times, starting with the right arm.
- Wipe your head once, including the ears.
- Wash your feet up to the ankles three times, starting with the right foot.
- Conclude with the dua: Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan abduhu wa rasuluhu.
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Understanding Ghusl (Purification Bath)
Ghusl is required in certain situations such as after marital relations, menstruation, or childbirth. It is a full-body ritual purification that is necessary before performing Namaz in these cases.
Steps of Ghusl:
- Intend to purify yourself for worship.
- Wash both hands.
- Wash the private parts thoroughly.
- Perform Wudu as you normally do for prayer.
- Pour water over the head three times.
- Wash the entire body, ensuring no spot is left dry.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Perform Namaz
Here is the complete step-by-step guide to performing Namaz in the Sunni way:
1. Intention (Niyyah) — Stand upright facing the Qiblah with a sincere intention to perform Namaz.
2. Takbir (Allahu Akbar) — Raise both hands to your ears and say
Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
3. Qiyam (Standing Position) — Place your right hand over your left hand and recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by any short Surah (e.g., Surah Ikhlas).
4. Ruku (Bowing) — Say Allahu Akbar and bow down keeping your back straight and hands on your knees. Recite Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem three times.
5. Qaumah (Standing after Ruku) — Stand up straight and say Sami’Allahu liman hamidah followed by Rabbana lakal khamd.
6. Sujood (Prostration) — Say Allahu Akbar and go into prostration. Recite Subhana Rabbiyal A'laa three times.
7. Jalsa (Sitting Position) — Sit upright and say Allahu Akbar.
8. Second Sujood — Perform another Sujood in the same manner.
9. Tashahhud (Sitting Position) — After the second Sujood, sit back in the sitting position and recite the Tashahhud:
- At-Tahiyyatu lillahi was-salawatu wat-tayyibat... until the end.
Tashahhud (تشهد), also called At-Tahiyyat, is a vital part of Sunni Namaz (Salah). It is a specific supplication recited during the sitting position (Jalsa) after completing two units (rakats) of prayer and at the end of the final rakat before concluding Salah with Tasleem (السلام عليكم ورحمة الله).
What Is Tashahhud?
Tashahhud is the testimony of faith and salutations recited while sitting in Salah. It includes praising Allah, sending peace on the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and bearing witness to the Oneness of Allah and the finality of Prophethood.
Arabic Text of Tashood:
اَلتَّحِيَّاتُ لِلّٰهِ وَالصَّلَوَاتُ وَالطَّيِّبَاتُ- السَّلَامُ عَلَيْكَ أَيُّهَا النَّبِيُّ وَرَحْمَةُ اللّٰهِ وَبَرَكَاتُهُ- السَّلَامُ عَلَيْنَا وَعَلٰى عِبَادِ اللّٰهِ الصَّالِحِينَ- أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ
English Translation:
"All compliments- prayers- and pure words are due to Allah. Peace be upon you, O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His blessings. Peace be upon us and the righteous servants of Allah. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah- and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger."
Importance of Tashood in Sunni Namaz
- 1. Essential Part of Salah (Rukn)
- 2. Testifies Faith (Shahadah)
- 3. Sends Peace on the Prophet ﷺ
- 4. Includes a Universal Du’a
- 5. Spiritual Reflection and Calmness
10. Durood (Salutation upon the Prophet ﷺ) — After Tashahhud, recite the Durood:
- Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala aali Muhammadin...
11. Dua After Durood — You can make personal duas after reciting Durood. One common dua is:
- Rab bij alnee muqeemas salati wa min zur riy yatee.........
12. Salam (Conclusion of the Prayer) — To complete the prayer, turn your face to the right and say Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah, then to the left and repeat.
What's the Best Age to Start Learning Namaz?
The best age to start teaching Namaz is around 7 years old, as recommended in various Hadith. At this age, children can grasp the steps and develop the habit of regular prayer. By the age of 10, they are generally capable of performing it properly with guidance.
Learn Namaz Online with Awwal Quran
If you want to master Namaz step by step, you can join Awwal Quran's online Namaz learning classes. These courses are designed to teach Namaz in detail, including all the duas, Arabic pronunciation, and step-by-step guidance, ensuring you perform it correctly.
Conclusion
Learning Namaz step by step in the Sunni way is essential for fulfilling this important pillar of Islam. With proper understanding and practice, it becomes a source of peace and a strong connection with Allah. If you want to enhance your learning, Awwal Quran is there to guide you with expert teachers and structured lessons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
At what age should children start learning Namaz?
Children should ideally start learning Namaz before the age of 7. This early exposure helps them develop a strong connection with prayer and Islamic values from a young age. If there is someone at home who can guide them, that’s excellent. However, if not, enrolling in Free Online Namaz Classes—like those offered by Awwal Quran—is a highly effective and convenient option for kids to begin their Salah journey in a structured and engaging way.
Can Namaz be performed in English?
The recitation must be in Arabic, but learning can be facilitated with English translation.
Can I learn Namaz online?
Yes, Awwal Quran offers structured online courses to learn Namaz Online.
What should I do if I forget a step during Namaz?
If you forget a step during Namaz, you can perform Sajda Sahw (prostration of forgetfulness) to correct the mistake.
Is it necessary to perform Ghusl before every Namaz?
No, Ghusl is only required in specific circumstances like after marital relations or menstruation. Wudu is required for regular prayers.
Can women perform Namaz during menstruation?
No, women are exempted from performing Namaz during their menstrual period. They are not required to make up the missed prayers later.
