How to offer salah (prayer)

Salah is the second pillar of Islam. This page gives a concise overview of what happens in each unit (rakʿah). New Muslims and children should learn in person with a teacher where possible.

Face the qiblah, stand respectfully, and make the intention in your heart for the prayer you are about to perform.

Begin with takbīr (“Allāhu akbar”) to enter the prayer, then recite what you know of the opening supplications and Sūrat al-Fātiḥah followed by a short sūrah or āyāt in the first two rakʿahs of a fard prayer (as taught).

Bow (rukūʿ) with calmness, saying “Subḥāna rabbiyal-ʿaẓīm” or similar, then rise saying “Samiʿa Allāhu liman ḥamidah” and “Rabbana wa lakal-ḥamd”.

Prostrate twice (sujūd) on seven parts of the body as taught, with the forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes touching the ground, saying “Subḥāna rabbiyal-aʿlā” in each sujūd.

Sit between the two sujūds, then complete the rakʿah. Additional rakʿahs follow the same pattern until you finish the prayer with salām to the right and left.

If you make a mistake, learn the simple corrections (sujūd al-sahw) from a teacher — do not rely on guesswork for repeated errors.

Official step-by-step prayer guide

Islamic Relief Worldwide publishes a widely used illustrated guide to the postures and words of salah.

Open Islamic Relief — how to pray

Women who are unsure about postures during pregnancy or illness, and travellers, should ask their imam for concessions that apply to their situation.