sajjadah

A sajjadah, also spelled sajjada or sajdah, is a portable prayer rug or mat used by Muslims during Salah (ritual prayer). It provides a clean surface and a personal space for worship, particularly when praying on the floor or in public places. The word derives from the Arabic sajdah, meaning prostration, with the noun form referring to the object used for the act of bowing and prostrating.

Designs commonly feature a motif that resembles a mihrab or arch to guide orientation toward the Qibla, though not all sajjadahs include this. Patterns are often geometric or vegetal, and religious inscriptions such as Qur’anic verses or invocations may appear. In traditional designs, depictions of living beings are typically avoided. Colors and motifs vary by region, culture, and manufacturer, reflecting local textile traditions.

Materials range from cotton and wool to silk or synthetic fibers. Sajjadahs can be hand-woven, tufted, or machine-made, and they come in a range of sizes from compact travel mats to larger, room-sized coverings. Their portability makes them convenient for use at home, travel, or during communal prayers.

Usage and care: the mat is unrolled in front of the worshipper, placed on a clean surface, and then folded or rolled for storage after prayer. Care depends on material—airing, gentle brushing, and occasional washing are common, with attention to preserving color and texture and avoiding harsh chemicals.

Culturally, sajjadahs are widespread across the Muslim world, with regional variations in style and color. They are typically considered personal items, though some communities use shared mats in certain settings.