What should be recited in Sujud as-Sahw during salah?

In a Nutshell: During Sujud as-Sahw (prostration of forgetfulness) in Salah (Islamic prayer), recite Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High)three times in each prostration. Say Rabb Ighfirli (My Lord, forgive me)between the two prostrations. Table of Contents Introduction Background and Context Hadiths on Sujud as-Sahw Recitation Analysis of Sujud as-Sahw Recitation Misconceptions FAQs (Sujud as-Sahw) Conclusion Introduction Salah is a cornerstone of Islamic practice and performing it correctly is essential. However, everyone makes mistakes. Sujud as-Sahw is a merciful provision in Islam that allows us to rectify errors or uncertainties that occur during prayer. This answer will look at the specific supplications recited during Sujud as-Sahw and their significance. Evidences from Sharia Hadiths on Sujud as-Sahw Recitation: Several hadiths provide guidance on the specific supplications recited during Sujud as-Sahw. Here are two prominent narrations: Sahih al-Bukhari narrates that the Prophet (saw) said, If anyone of you forgets during the prayer and remembers while he is still in prayer, he should prostrate twice before the taslim (greetings). Sahih Muslim narrates from Abu Sa'id al-Khudri (ra) that the Prophet (saw) said, If anyone forgets during the prayer and remembers while he is still in prayer, let him complete his prayer and then prostrate twice in sujud al-sahw. These hadiths establish the practice of Sujud as-Sahw and do not explicitly mention the wording of the supplication. However, the specific duas recited during Sujud as-Sahw are found in the established Sunnah. Sujud as-Sahw Recitation While the hadiths referenced in the previous section establish the practice of Sujud as-Sahw, the specific wording of the supplication is derived from the established Sunnah. Here's a breakdown of the recommended recitations and their significance: Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High): This glorifies Allah's (swt) majesty and perfection. It serves as a form of dhikr (remembrance) during prostration, a core posture of humility and submission in Salah. Repeating this phrase three times in each prostration emphasizes this glorification and reinforces the worshipper's focus on Allah (swt) during Sujud as-Sahw. Rabb Ighfirli (My Lord, forgive me): This supplication directly seeks Allah's (swt) forgiveness for the error committed during prayer. Recognizing and acknowledging mistakes is a vital part of Islamic practice and this dua expresses the worshipper's remorse and hope for Allah's (swt) mercy. It is important to note that some scholarly discussions exist regarding the specific wording and number of repetitions for these supplications. However, the majority of scholars agree that the core message of glorifying Allah (swt) and seeking forgiveness is paramount. Here are some additional points to consider: While Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la is the most commonly recommended supplication, other forms of tasbih (glorification) permissible during regular prayer prostrations can also be recited in Sujud as-Sahw. The act of prostrating itself demonstrates humility and submission to Allah (swt), further emphasizing the worshipper's seeking of forgiveness. By understanding the meaning and significance of these recitations, we can approach Sujud as-Sahw with a deeper sense of purpose and sincerity. Misconceptions Different Supplications for Sujud as-Sahw While some variations in wording may exist, the core message of glorifying Allah (swt) and seeking forgiveness should be maintained. The most widely accepted practice is to recite Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la and Rabb Ighfirli as mentioned earlier. It's best to consult with a qualified scholar if there are doubts about specific supplications. Relying Solely on Sujud as-Sahw Without Correcting Mistakes Sujud as-Sahw does not negate the importance of correcting the mistake itself during prayer. If a worshipper forgets a rak'ah, they should perform an additional one. If they forget an act within a rak'ah, they should perform it upon remembering. Sujud as-Sahw serves as an acknowledgement and rectification after the fact, alongside any necessary corrections within the prayer itself. The Need for Sujud as-Sahw After Every Minor Error Sujud as-Sahw is generally required for major errors or omissions during Salah, such as missing a rak'ah, reciting incorrectly, or changing the order of actions. Minor errors or moments of forgetfulness may not always necessitate Sujud as-Sahw. However, if a mistake causes significant doubt or disrupts the flow of the prayer, performing Sujud as-Sahw is the safer and recommended course of action. Sufficiency of Verbal Correction Without Prostration While verbal affirmations like Subhan Allah or seeking istighfar (forgiveness) during prayer are beneficial, they cannot replace the act of Sujud as-Sahw when it is required. The specific act of prostrating in Sujud as-Sahw signifies an additional level of humility and recognition of error before Allah (swt). FAQs (Sujud as-Sahw) When to perform Sujud as-Sahw? Perform it before the taslim (saying salam at the end of the prayer) if the error is remembered before completing the Salah. Perform it after taslim if the error is only realized after the prayer is complete. Can Sujud as-Sahw Be Performed After Salam (Greetings)? Yes, performing it after the salam is valid in cases when the error is not realized until after completing the prayer. What If One Forgets the Recitation in Sujud as-Sahw? Focus on the intention of seeking Allah's (swt) forgiveness and repeat the prostrations. The specific wording of the supplication, while important, is secondary to the sincere act of prostration itself. Conclusion The recitation of Subhana Rabbiyal-A'la and Rabb Ighfirli during Sujud as-Sahw embodies a powerful act of acknowledgment and rectification. By glorifying Allah (swt) and seeking His forgiveness, worshippers demonstrate their commitment to sincerity and humility. While debates exist regarding specific wording variations or the necessity of Sujud as-Sahw after every minor error, the core message and practice remain clear.