The Quran, Islam’s holy book, is a source of divine guidance and knowledge for Muslims worldwide. Within its verses, certain passages call for an act of prostration known as Sajdah. This practice represents utmost submission and humility before Allah. For many, understanding the specific instances where Sajdah is required can deepen their connection to their faith.
In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Sajdah in the Quran and provide a comprehensive list of verses where this act is prescribed. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of where and why Sajdah is performed, enriching your spiritual practice.
How many Sajdah in Quran ?
| Surah No. | Surah Name | Sajdah Verse No. |
| 7 | Al-Aaraaf | 206 |
| 13 | Ar-Raad | 15 |
| 16 | An-Nahl | 50 |
| 17 | Al-Isra | 109 |
| 19 | Maryam | 58 |
| 22 | Al-Hajj | 18 |
| 22 | Al-Hajj | 77* |
| 25 | Al-Furgan | 60 |
| 27 | An-Naml | 26 |
| 32 | As-Sajdah | 15 |
| 38 | Saad | 24 * |
| 41 | Fussilat | 38 |
| 53 | An-Najm | 62 |
| 84 | Al-Insiqaq | 21 |
| 96 | Al-Alaq | 19 |
What Is Sajdah?
Sajdah, or prostration, is an act of worship in which a Muslim places their forehead, nose, palms, knees, and toes on the ground, facing the Kaaba in Mecca. This act symbolizes the believer’s submission, humility, and devotion to Allah. It is a fundamental component of the five daily prayers (Salah) and holds a special place in Islamic rituals.
The Spiritual Significance
Sajdah is more than a physical act; it is a profound expression of a Muslim’s faith. It represents the highest form of worship and the believer’s willingness to surrender to the will of Allah. Performing Sajdah during prayer is a moment of closeness to the Creator, where the believer seeks mercy, forgiveness, and guidance.
Sajdah in the Quran
The Quran contains specific verses that call for a Sajdah, known as Ayat al-Sajdah. When these verses are recited or heard, it is obligatory (in some cases, highly recommended) for Muslims to perform Sajdah. These instances serve as reminders of Allah’s greatness and the believer’s duty to submit to His commands.
List of Sajdah in the Quran
1. Surah Al-A’raf (7:206)
In verse 206 of Surah Al-A’raf, Allah describes the angels who are close to Him, glorifying Him with praise and bowing down in prostration. This verse emphasizes the importance of humility and reverence in worship.
2. Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:15)
Surah Ar-Ra’d, verse 15, speaks of all beings in the heavens and the earth prostrating to Allah, willingly or unwillingly. This verse highlights the universality of Allah’s dominion and the natural inclination of creation to submit to Him.
3. Surah Al-Nahl (16:50)
In verse 50 of Surah Al-Nahl, the angels are described as fearing their Lord above them and doing what they are commanded, including prostration. This verse underscores the obedience and fear of Allah that leads to Sajdah.
4. Surah Al-Isra (17:109)
Verse 109 of Surah Al-Isra depicts those who, upon hearing the recitation of the Quran, fall down in prostration, weeping. This verse portrays the emotional impact of the Quran and the act of Sajdah as a response to its powerful message.
5. Surah Maryam (19:58)
In Surah Maryam, verse 58, the prophets are mentioned as those who, when the revelations of the Most Merciful were recited to them, fall down in prostration and weeping. This verse connects the act of Sajdah to the reception of divine revelation.
6. Surah Al-Hajj (22:18)
Verse 18 of Surah Al-Hajj speaks of all creation, including the sun, moon, stars, mountains, trees, animals, and many people, prostrating to Allah. This verse illustrates the comprehensive nature of Allah’s creation and their submission to Him.
7. Surah Al-Hajj (22:77)
Later in the same Surah, verse 77 calls on the believers to bow down, prostrate, and worship their Lord. This verse serves as a direct command to perform Sajdah as part of worship.
8. Surah Al-Furqan (25:60)
In Surah Al-Furqan, verse 60, those who are arrogant and refuse to prostrate when reminded of the Most Merciful are criticized. This verse contrasts the humility required for Sajdah with the arrogance of those who refuse.
9. Surah An-Naml (27:26)
Verse 26 of Surah An-Naml declares that only Allah is worthy of worship, prompting believers to prostrate. This verse reinforces the exclusivity of worshiping Allah and the act of Sajdah as an acknowledgment of His sovereignty.
10. Surah As-Sajdah (32:15)
Surah As-Sajdah, fittingly named, contains verse 15, which describes those who believe in the revelations of their Lord and fall down in prostration, glorifying Him. This verse captures the essence of a believer’s response to divine guidance.
11. Surah Sad (38:24)
In verse 24 of Surah Sad, the story of David is recounted, where he realizes his mistake and seeks forgiveness through prostration. This verse demonstrates the act of Sajdah as a means of repentance and seeking Allah’s mercy.
12. Surah Fussilat (41:38)
Verse 38 of Surah Fussilat addresses those who turn away from the call to prostrate before Allah. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of arrogance and the importance of humility in worship.
13. Surah An-Najm (53:62)
Surah An-Najm, verse 62, ends with a direct command to prostrate and worship Allah. This verse leaves no ambiguity about the importance of Sajdah in acknowledging Allah’s greatness.
14. Surah Inshiqaq (84:21)
Verse 21 of Surah Inshiqaq speaks of those who do not prostrate when the Quran is recited to them. This verse highlights the critical nature of responding to Allah’s words with humility and submission.
15. Surah Al-Alaq (96:19)
In the final verse of Surah Al-Alaq, verse 19, the command to prostrate and draw near to Allah is given. This verse encapsulates the purpose of Sajdah as a means of attaining closeness to the Creator.
The Impact of Sajdah on a Believer’s Life
Deepening Spiritual Connection
Performing Sajdah as prescribed in the Quran helps deepen a believer’s spiritual connection to Allah. It is a physical manifestation of submission, reminding the worshiper of their place before the Creator.
Cultivating Humility and Obedience
Sajdah instills a sense of humility and obedience in the believer. By physically lowering themselves to the ground, Muslims acknowledge their dependence on Allah and their commitment to following His commands.
Enhancing Prayer Experience
Including the act of Sajdah during prayer enhances the overall experience of Salah. It brings a sense of completion and fulfillment to the prayer, allowing the believer to fully engage in their worship.
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of Sajdah and its specific instances in the Quran enriches a Muslim’s spiritual practice. By performing Sajdah as prescribed, believers can deepen their connection to Allah, cultivate humility, and enhance their prayer experience.
For those looking to explore further, consider reading detailed exegeses on these verses or discussing them with knowledgeable scholars. May your acts of Sajdah bring you closer to the Creator and strengthen your faith.