sujda

Sujda, also known as Sajdah or Sujud, is an Arabic word referring to the act of prostration in Islam. It is a fundamental posture of prayer (salat) and is performed multiple times within each prayer cycle. The physical act involves kneeling and then lowering the forehead, nose, and hands to the ground, symbolizing complete submission and humility before God (Allah).

During sujda, Muslims recite specific supplications and praises to God. It is considered a moment of deep spiritual connection and reverence. There are two types of sujda: the sujda of prayer, which is an integral part of the five daily prayers, and the sujda of forgetfulness (sujdat al-sahw), performed to correct minor errors in prayer. The act of prostration is not unique to Islam, as similar gestures of reverence can be found in other Abrahamic traditions, though its specific form and context within Islamic prayer are distinct. Performing sujda with the proper intention and concentration is believed to bring spiritual rewards and closeness to God.