ruku

Ruku is the bowing position in Islamic ritual prayer (salah). It occurs in each unit of prayer, or rak‘ah, after the initial standing (qiyam) and before the prostration (sujūd). In the ruku position, the practitioner bends at the waist with a straight back, places the hands on the knees, and keeps the head level with the back. Gaze is typically downward or toward the floor.

Etymology and terminology: The term comes from Arabic rukūʿ (رُكُوع), meaning “bowing” or “humility.” In Islamic jurisprudence, ruku is described as a formal act within the rak‘ah and is treated as a essential element in many schools of thought (madhahib), though specific rulings may vary.

Recitation and posture: While in ruku, worshippers commonly recite a verse glorifying God, most widely: Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem (“Glory be to my Lord, the Magnificent”) three times, though the exact number and phrasing can differ by tradition. After finishing the bow, the worshipper rises to the standing position, often saying “Sami‘a Allahu liman hamidah” and “Rabbana lakal hamd” before proceeding to sujūd.

Jurisprudence and practice: Ruku is considered a core component of the prayer in many Islamic legal schools. Proper form emphasizes a straight back, minimal strain on the arms, and humility before God. The precise details, such as the number of praises said or the duration of the bow, can vary between madhahib and cultural practices.

In summary, ruku is the bowing act within each rak‘ah of Salah, signaling humility before the divine, and is followed by rising to the standing position and then performing prostrations.