Chapter on the Prostration of Recitation (Sujud al-Tilawah)
Introduction
The prostration of recitation (Sujud al-Tilawah) is a confirmed Sunnah through which a worshipper draws closer to Allah when reciting or listening to a verse of prostration in the Quran. It is a manifestation of humility and servitude to Allah Almighty. Numerous hadiths highlight its virtue and method, emphasizing its importance in a Muslim’s life.
Definition of Sujud al-Tilawah
Sujud al-Tilawah is a prostration performed by a Muslim upon reciting or hearing one of the Quranic verses of prostration—where prostration is mentioned or commanded. There are **fifteen such verses** in the Quran, including:
> **"Only those believe in Our verses who, when they are reminded by them, fall down in prostration and exalt [Allah] with praise of their Lord, and they are not arrogant."** (Quran 32:15)
Legitimacy of Sujud al-Tilawah
Its legitimacy is established by the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly consensus:
- **From the Quran**: The command to prostrate in verses such as:
> **"So prostrate to Allah and worship [Him]."** (Quran 53:62)
- **From the Sunnah**: Numerous hadiths, including one narrated by Bukhari and Muslim from Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him):
> *"The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to recite the Quran to us, and when he reached a verse of prostration, he would prostrate, and we would prostrate with him."*
- **Consensus (Ijma’)**: Scholars unanimously agree on its legitimacy.
Ruling on Sujud al-Tilawah
Scholars agree that Sujud al-Tilawah is a **confirmed Sunnah** (not obligatory) for both the reciter and the listener, based on the Prophet’s (peace be upon him) saying:
> *"When the son of Adam recites a verse of prostration and prostrates, Satan withdraws, weeping."* (Muslim)
How to Perform It
There is no **Takbir (saying 'Allahu Akbar')** or **Tasleem (salam)** in Sujud al-Tilawah. It suffices to say:
- **"Subhana Rabbi al-A’la"** (Glory to my Lord, the Most High) or any supplication.
- It is recommended to say:
> *"My face prostrated to the One Who created it, formed it, and gave it hearing and sight by His might and power."* (Tirmidhi)
Conditions for Sujud al-Tilawah
Most scholars require the same conditions as prayer: **purity (taharah), facing the Qiblah, and covering the awrah**. However, some, like the Hanafis, believe these conditions are not necessary.
Verses of Prostration in the Quran
There are **15 verses of prostration**, including:
1. Surah Al-A’raf (7:206)
2. Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:15)
3. Surah An-Nahl (16:49)
4. Surah Al-Isra (17:107)
5. Surah Maryam (19:58)
... and others.
Conclusion
Sujud al-Tilawah is a profound act of worship that reminds Muslims of Allah’s greatness and their humility before Him. It is an opportunity for supplication and seeking nearness to Allah. Muslims should strive to perform it when reciting or hearing a verse of prostration to attain the full reward of recitation and submission to Allah.
> **"And they fall upon their faces weeping, and it increases them in humility."** (Quran 17:109)


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