What is Salat al Tasbeeh?
Salatul Tasbeeh is a special form of voluntary prayer highly recommended in Islam for seeking forgiveness and blessings from Allah (SWT). It is named after the act of glorification as it involves praising Allah (SWT) repeatedly during the prayer. This prayer consists of four units (rak’ahs) and is a profound means of spiritual purification.
The term “Tasbeeh” refers to the act of praise, and in Salat al Tasbih, you repeat a specific phrase of praise throughout the prayer:
In each unit (rak’ah) of the prayer, one repeats this Tasbeeh 75 times, totaling 300 repetitions throughout the entire prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged his uncle, Hazrat Abbas (RA), to regularly perform this prayer, highlighting its immense spiritual rewards. Although it is not obligatory, Salat ul Tasbeeh offers great blessings and is a means for Muslims to seek forgiveness and attain closeness to Allah (SWT).
Hazrat Abdullah Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that:
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said to al-Abbas ibn AbdulMuttalib: Abbas, my uncle, shall I not give you, shall I not present to you, shall I not donate to you, shall I not produce for you ten things? If you act upon them, Allah (SWT) will forgive you your sins, first and last, old and new, involuntary and voluntary, small and great, secret and open. [Sunan Abi Dawud 1297]
How to Perform Salatul Tasbeeh
Performing salat ul Tasbih might initially seem tricky, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a beautiful way to connect with Allah (SWT). Here’s how you can perform it step by step:
- Make Your Intention (Niyyah): Start with a sincere intention in your heart to perform four rak’ahs of Salat al Tasbeeh for Allah (SWT), seeking His forgiveness and blessings. You don’t need to vocalize this intention; focus on the purpose behind your prayer.
- Start with Takbir (Allahu Akbar): Raise your hands and say “Allahu Akbar” to commence the prayer, just like in other prayers.
- Recite Subhanak Allahumma (Opening Supplication): After Takbir, recite the opening supplication, Subhanak Allahumma, followed by “A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim” and “Bismillah” to prepare yourself spiritually.
- Recite the Tasbeeh 15 Times Before Surah al-Fatiha: Before you move on to Surah al-Fatiha, recite the specific Tasbeeh mentioned earlier that makes this prayer unique. Repeat this Tasbeeh 15 times while standing before starting Surah al-Fatiha.
- Recite Surah al-Fatiha and a Short Surah: Proceed with Surah al-Fatiha, followed by a short surah of your choice, such as Surah Ikhlas, Surah al-Kawthar, or any other.
- Recite the Tasbeeh 10 Times After Surah al-Fatiha: After completing the recitation of the Surah, while still standing, recite the Tasbeeh again 10 times before moving into the bowing position (Ruku).
- Perform Ruku (Bowing) and Recite the Tasbeeh 10 More Times: Enter into Ruku, and while in this position, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times.
- Stand Up from Ruku and Recite the Tasbeeh 10 Times: After Ruku, while standing, repeat the Tasbeeh 10 times before going into prostration (Sujood).
- Perform Sujood (Prostration) and Recite the Tasbeeh 10 Times: Go into Sujood as usual. Then, while in Sujood, recite the Tasbeeh 10 times.
- Sit Between the Two Sujood and Recite the Tasbeeh 10 Times: Now, sit up in between the two prostrations (Jalsa), and after saying “Rabbighfirli,” recite the Tasbeeh 10 more times before moving into the second prostration.
- Perform the Second Sujood and Recite the Tasbeeh 10 Times: Move into the second Sujood, and repeat the Tasbeeh 10 times after the normal “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la.”
Repeat the Process for All Four Rak’ahs
Repeat the above steps for each of the four rak’ahs. Here’s a quick recap of when to say the Tasbeeh:
- 15 times before Surah al-Fatiha
- 10 times after the Surah
- 10 times in Ruku
- 10 times after standing up from Ruku
- 10 times in the first Sujood
- 10 times while sitting between the Sujood
- 10 times in the second Sujood
It might seem like a lot of repetition at first, but the more you practice Salat al Tasbeeh, the more peace and connection you will feel. The rhythm of repeating the Tasbeeh brings a sense of calm, allowing you to focus deeply on the glorification of Allah (SWT) and fostering a profound spiritual experience.
Best Time to Pray Salatul Tasbeeh
You might wonder when the best time to perform salatul tasbih prayer. The good news is that you can perform it at any time! However, certain moments are particularly special and recommended:
After Isha (Night) Prayer: Many scholars suggest praying Salat al Tasbeeh after the Isha prayer. This is because it’s a peaceful and quiet time, perfect for reflecting and deepening your connection with Allah (SWT) in solitude.
During Tahajjud (Late Night Prayer): The last third of the night, known as the pre-dawn hours, is considered one of the most blessed times. Many regard this time as ideal for performing voluntary prayers. Offering Salat al Tasbeeh during Tahajjud allows you to benefit from the abundant mercy of Allah (SWT) as you seek His forgiveness and blessings.
(Discover the power of Tahajjud Prayer! Our detailed guide explains the best timings, duas, and great benefits of this special night prayer.)
On Fridays: Fridays hold a special status in Islam, making it an ideal day to perform Salat al Tasbeeh. Offering it in the morning on this blessed day can be especially rewarding.
If you can observe this prayer regularly, aim for once daily; if that is not possible, then try once a week. If that’s not feasible, then perform it once a month, once a year, or at least once in your lifetime to reap its immense benefits.
However, Islam prohibits prayer at certain times, such as after Fajr until sunrise and after Asr until sunset. Therefore, avoid these times when offering Salat al Tasbeeh.
The Benefits of Salatul Tasbeeh Prayer
The benefits of praying Salat al Tasbeeh are multiple. It’s more than just a way to earn rewards—it’s a way to cleanse your soul and seek forgiveness for past sins. Let’s look at some key benefits:
Forgiveness for Sins: The Prophet (PBUH) recommended this prayer because it helps seek forgiveness for major and minor sins. Whether you’ve made mistakes knowingly or unknowingly, Salat al Tasbeeh offers a path to wipe them away.
Closeness to Allah (SWT): Repeating phrases of praise like “Subhanallah” and “Alhamdulillah” helps deepen your connection with Allah (SWT). You’ll feel a spiritual closeness and happiness that’s hard to describe.
Peace and Calm: The Tasbeeh’s rhythmic recitation calms your mind and heart. If you’ve been feeling stressed or distracted, this prayer can help refocus your thoughts on what truly matters—your relationship with Allah (SWT).
Reward in the Hereafter: Like every good deed, Salat al Tasbeeh comes with tremendous rewards in the Hereafter. By performing this prayer, you are preparing yourself for the ultimate journey to Jannah (Paradise) and securing blessings that will benefit you in the eternal life to come.
FAQs About Salat ul Tasbeeh
Q1. Is Salat al Tasbeeh Nafl or Sunnah?
Salat ul Tasbeeh is considered Nafl, meaning it is a voluntary prayer. Although not obligatory, highly recommend it due to its profound spiritual benefits and the rewards it offers.
Q2. How Many Rak’ahs Are in Salatul Tasbeeh?
Salat al Tasbeeh consists of four rak’ahs.
Q3. Can Salat ul Tasbeeh Be Prayed in Congregation (Jamaat)?
Yes, Salat al Tasbeeh can be prayed in the congregation (Jamaat), although it is typically performed individually. Many scholars recommend offering it alone to foster a deeper, more personal connection with Allah (SWT). However, praying in a group is permissible if you prefer to do so.
(Unlock the wisdom of Congregational Prayer! Explore our comprehensive guide on its essential conditions, leadership roles, and rulings for a deeper understanding.)
Q4. What’s the Rule of Salatul Tasbeeh?
The rule of Salatul Tasbih is that it is a voluntary prayer. It’s not mandatory, but it’s an act of worship that is greatly rewarded if performed with sincerity and focus.
Q5. Is Salat al Tasbih Bidah (Innovation)?
Scholarly debate continues over whether Salat al Tasbih is considered a Bidah (innovation) in Islam. Some scholars, citing hadiths and the practices of early Muslims, argue that it is a recommended prayer and not an innovation.
For instance, Sheikh Nasir Uddin Albani has classified certain hadiths regarding Salat al Tasbih as Hasan (good), suggesting that the practice is not Bidah and holds potential rewards for those who perform it.
It is important to recognize that different schools of thought have varying interpretations of Islamic jurisprudence. What one school may consider permissible, another may not. As with many aspects of religious practice, individuals often refer to the guidance of their local scholars or religious authorities to address such questions. One may consult multiple sources and authorities within their tradition for a comprehensive understanding.
“Understand the debate on Bid’ah in Islam! Learn the difference between good innovations (Bid’ah Hasanah) and bad innovations (Bid’ah Sayyiah) in simple terms.”
Q6. Can Women Perform Salat al Tasbeeh?
Absolutely! Both individuals can perform the Salatul Tasbeeh prayer at any time that is not forbidden for worship. There are no restrictions based on gender.
Q7. Can salatul tasbeeh namaz Be Prayed at Any Time?
Yes, you can pray it at any time except during the prohibited times in Islam.
Q8. Is Salatul Tasbih Authentic?
Yes, many scholars consider Salat al Tasbeeh authentic, and several hadiths support its practice. While not all scholars agree, many have embraced it based on reliable narrations from the Prophet (PBUH). So, if you choose to offer this prayer, you can trust in its authenticity.
Final Thoughts: Start Praying Salat al Tasbih Today!
Salat al Tasbeeh is a beautiful way to seek forgiveness and come closer to Allah (SWT). Whether you desire peace of mind, spiritual growth, or a path to wipe away your sins, this prayer offers it all. You aren’t required to perform this prayer, but the rewards are too great to pass up.
So, why not include it in your prayer routine today?
Take a moment during your quiet time, maybe after Isha or before dawn, and try Salat al Tasbeeh. The peace and blessings it brings to your heart might surprise you.
May Allah (SWT) grant us all the strength and faithfulness to perform Salatul Tasbeeh and accept our prayers with mercy. Ameen!
Last Updated on December 13, 2024 by Jamshed Anwer
