Your First Prayer: A Gentle Step-by-Step Guide
Feeling nervous about making mistakes? Don’t be. Salah (prayer) is a connection, not a performance. Allah looks at your heart’s intention before your body’s movement.
One Unit (Rak’ah)
The 4 Basic Movements
Every prayer is made of units called Rak’ahs. Here is what one unit looks like:
1
The Opening (Takbir)
Raise your hands to your ears and say:
“Allahu Akbar” (God is Greatest)
Now, fold your hands over your chest. You have entered the sacred zone.
2
The Standing (Qiyam)
Look at the ground. Recite Surah Al-Fatiha (The Opening). If you haven’t memorized it yet, you can listen to it on your phone or hold a paper.
3
The Bowing (Ruku)
Bend at the waist, hands on knees, back straight. Say:
“Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” (Glory to my Lord the Great)
Say it 3 times slowly.
4
The Prostration (Sujood)
This is the closest you are to Allah. Put your forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes on the floor. Say:
“Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” (Glory to my Lord the Most High)
Say it 3 times.
Beginner Tips
- It’s okay to hold a paper: You can print the transliteration and hold it while praying until you memorize it.
- It’s okay to move: If you itch or need to adjust your clothes, do it gently. It doesn’t break your prayer.
- Take your time: There is no rush. Enjoy the peace.