How to Pray Salatul Tasbih: A Guide

Learn how to pray Salatul Tasbih with this comprehensive, beginner-friendly guide. Understand its significance, steps, and benefits to enhance your spiritual practice effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the meaning and importance of Salatul Tasbih.
• Master the step-by-step prayer method with clear instructions.
• Identify the ideal times and virtuous occasions to offer the prayer.
• Understand the special Tasbih (glorification) phrasing used.
• Learn how to count the specific number of recitations accurately.
• Gain insights into the profound spiritual rewards of this prayer.

In Dubai, a city renowned for its seamless blend of tradition and modernity, understanding Islamic practices like prayer is a common pursuit for many residents and visitors. You might have heard of Salatul Tasbih, a special prayer filled with blessings, but found the process a little unclear. This guide is here to make learning how to pray Salatul Tasbih straightforward and accessible for everyone. We’ll break down each step so you can feel confident and connected in your worship. Get ready to explore the beauty and spiritual depth of Salatul Tasbih.

Understanding Salatul Tasbih: The Prayer of Glorification

Salatul Tasbih, often translated as the “Prayer of Glorification” or “Prayer of the Marvelous,” is a voluntary (nafl) prayer that holds a special place in Islamic tradition. It is known for its immense spiritual rewards and its power to seek forgiveness for sins, both major and minor. The core of this prayer lies in the repeated recitation of a specific glorification phrase, which elevates the spiritual experience and connects the worshipper more deeply with Allah (God). Unlike the obligatory daily prayers (Salah), Salatul Tasbih can be offered at any time of the day or night, though it is particularly recommended on auspicious occasions.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged his uncle, Al-Abbas ibn Abd al-Muttalib, to learn and offer this prayer. It is narrated that he said to him: “O uncle, shall I not give you, shall I not present to you, shall I not do for you ten things if you do them, Allah will forgive your sins, first and last, old and new, those done by mistake and those done deliberately, small and great, hidden and apparent—ten things. That you pray four rak’ahs. In each rak’ah you recite Umm al-Kitab [Al-Fatihah] and a surah. Then, when you finish the recitation in the first rak’ah, and you are standing, you say: ‘SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi wa la ilaha illAllahu wallahu Akbar’ (Glory be to Allah, and praise be to Allah, and there is no god but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest) fifteen times. Then you go into bowing, and you say it seven times, and then you rise from bowing, and you say it seven times, and then you go down to prostration, and you say it seven times, and then you rise from prostration, and you say it seven times, and then you go down to second prostration, and you say it seven times, and then you rise from the second prostration, and you say it seven times. Then you do this in the four rak’ahs. That is seventy-five times in each rak’ah, so it is three hundred times in the four rak’ahs.”

This hadith highlights the profound benefits promised for performing Salatul Tasbih. It’s a comprehensive prayer designed to cleanse the heart and seek Allah’s boundless mercy. Understanding its origin and significance can enhance your intention and focus when you offer it.

The Significance and Virtues of Salatul Tasbih

The primary virtue of Salatul Tasbih lies in its ability to seek forgiveness for sins. The repeated glorification of Allah, combined with the prayer itself, creates a powerful act of devotion that can lead to the expiation of transgressions. It’s a means for believers to purify themselves and draw closer to their Creator. The prayer is not just about seeking forgiveness; it is also a way to express gratitude and acknowledge Allah’s greatness, which can lead to increased blessings and spiritual contentment.

The systematic repetition of the Tasbih phrase throughout the prayer also helps in cultivating mindfulness and concentration (Khushu). In the hustle and bustle of life, especially in dynamic cities like Dubai, finding moments of deep spiritual connection is invaluable. Salatul Tasbih offers a structured framework to achieve this, allowing you to focus your mind and heart on remembrance of Allah.

Furthermore, it is a Sunnah (practice) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), making its performance an act of following his guidance, which is highly rewarded. By learning and performing this prayer, you are embracing a beautiful aspect of Islamic tradition that has been cherished by Muslims for centuries.

When to Pray Salatul Tasbih?

Salatul Tasbih is a voluntary prayer, meaning it is not obligatory. It can be offered at any time of the day or night, except for the times when voluntary prayers are disliked or forbidden in Islam. These forbidden times include:

• After the Fajr (dawn) prayer until the sun rises.
• When the sun is at its zenith at noon, until it passes the meridian.
• After the Asr (afternoon) prayer until the sun sets.

However, it is most highly recommended to perform Salatul Tasbih once a day, once a week, once a month, or at least once a year. The important aspect is to try and offer it, even if infrequently. Some scholars suggest performing it on a Friday night or day, as Fridays are considered the holiest day of the week, further increasing its potential blessings.

Offering Salatul Tasbih on Special Occasions

While you can pray Salatul Tasbih anytime, observing it during auspicious periods can amplify its significance. Consider incorporating it into your routine during:

• The blessed nights of Ramadan, particularly the last ten nights.
• The nights of Dhu al-Hijjah, the month of Hajj.
• The night of Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Decree).
• Any time you feel a particular need for spiritual reflection or seeking forgiveness.

In Dubai, with its diverse population, many residents and expats find solace and spiritual fulfillment in observing such prayers. It’s a personal journey of devotion that can be integrated into your daily or weekly rhythm.

The Tasbih Phrase: What to Recite

The specific glorification phrase recited in Salatul Tasbih is:

“SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi wa la ilaha illAllah wa wallahu Akbar”

This translates to:

“Glory be to Allah, and praise be to Allah, and there is no god but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest.”

This phrase is comprehensive, encompassing the core tenets of Islamic belief: acknowledging Allah’s perfection, praising Him, affirming His oneness, and recognizing His supreme power.

When reciting this Tasbih, it is important to do so with sincerity and understanding of its meaning. Reflecting on the words as you say them will enhance the spiritual impact of the prayer. Some scholars also add a variation in prostration, such as reciting “Subbuhun Quddusun Rabbul Mala’ikati war-Rooh” (All Glorious, All Pure, Lord of the Angels and the Spirit).

How to Pray Salatul Tasbih: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning how to pray Salatul Tasbih is an enriching experience. The prayer consists of four Rak’ahs (units of prayer). You can offer it in two ways: either by praying all four Rak’ahs consecutively with one Salaam (ending of prayer), or by praying two Rak’ahs, then another two Rak’ahs with a Salaam in between each pair.

Method 1: Four Rak’ahs with One Salaam

This method involves praying all four Rak’ahs one after another without an intervening Salaam.

1. Intention (Niyyah): Make the intention in your heart to pray Salatul Tasbih. You don’t need to utter it aloud.
2. Start the Prayer: Begin by saying “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) to enter into the prayer, just as you would for any other Salah.
3. Recite Thana: After “Allahu Akbar,” recite the opening supplication (Thana): “Subhanakallahumma wa bihamdik, wa tabarakasmuk, wa ta’ala jadduk, wa la ilaha ghayruk.” (Glory be to You, O Allah, and praise be to You; blessed be Your Name, and exalted be Your Majesty; and there is no god besides You.)
4. Recite Ta’awwudh and Basmalah: Then say “A’udhu billahi minash shaitanir rajeem” (I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed Satan) and “Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem” (In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful).
5. Recite Surah Al-Fatihah and another Surah: Recite Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by any other Surah or verses from the Quran.
6. Recite the Tasbih Phrase (15 times): While standing, before going into Ruku’ (bowing), recite: “SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi wa la ilaha illAllah wa wallahu Akbar” fifteen (15) times.
7. Go into Ruku’ (Bowing): Say “Allahu Akbar” and bow down. While in Ruku’, recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times.
8. Rise from Ruku’: Rise from bowing by saying “SamiAllahu liman hamidah” (Allah hears those who praise Him). After standing upright, you can say “Rabbana walakal hamd” (Our Lord, to You belongs all praise).
9. Recite the Tasbih Phrase (7 times): While standing upright after Ruku’, recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times.
10. Go into Sujood (Prostration): Say “Allahu Akbar” and go into the first prostration. While in prostration, recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times.
11. Sit between the two Prostrations: Rise from the first prostration by saying “Allahu Akbar” and sit briefly. Recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times.
12. Go into the Second Sujood: Say “Allahu Akbar” and go into the second prostration. While in the second prostration, recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times.
13. Stand for the Second Rak’ah: Rise from the second prostration by saying “Allahu Akbar” and stand up for the second Rak’ah. Recite the Tasbih phrase seven (7) times upon standing.
14. Repeat for the Remaining Rak’ahs: Complete the second, third, and fourth Rak’ahs in the same manner. Remember to recite the Tasbih phrase fifteen times while standing in each Rak’ah, and seven times in Ruku’, between prostrations, and in each prostration.
15. Final Sitting and Salaam: After completing the fourth Rak’ah, sit for the final Tashahhud and Salaam.

Method 2: Two Rak’ahs, Salaam, then Two More Rak’ahs

This method involves performing two Rak’ahs, ending with Salaam, and then standing up to perform another two Rak’ahs, also ending with Salaam.

1. First Two Rak’ahs: Perform the first two Rak’ahs exactly as described above for the first Rak’ah, including the Tasbih recitations (15 times standing, 7 in Ruku’, 7 after Ruku’, 7 in the first Sujood, 7 between prostrations, 7 in the second Sujood).
2. End with Salaam: After completing the second Rak’ah, recite the Tashahhud and end the prayer with the Salaam.
3. Start Again: Stand up and begin two new Rak’ahs, following the same procedure as the first two, including all the Tasbih recitations.
4. End Second Pair with Salaam: After completing the fourth Rak’ah, recite Tashahhud and end with the Salaam.

Both methods are considered valid. The key is to ensure you perform the correct number of Tasbih recitations in each position within each Rak’ah.

Counting the Tasbih Recitations

Accurately counting the Tasbih recitations is crucial for Salatul Tasbih. Each Rak’ah has a total of 75 recitations of “SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi wa la ilaha illAllah wa wallahu Akbar”. This breaks down as follows:

Stage of Prayer	Recitations per Rak’ah	Total for 4 Rak’ahs (Method 1)	Total for 4 Rak’ahs (Method 2)
Standing (before Ruku’)	15 times	60 times (15 x 4)	60 times (15 x 2 in first pair + 15 x 2 in second pair)
Ruku’ (Bowing)	7 times	28 times (7 x 4)	28 times (7 x 2 in first pair + 7 x 2 in second pair)
Standing (after Ruku’)	7 times	28 times (7 x 4)	28 times (7 x 2 in first pair + 7 x 2 in second pair)
First Sujood (Prostration)	7 times	28 times (7 x 4)	28 times (7 x 2 in first pair + 7 x 2 in second pair)
Sitting between Prostrations	7 times	28 times (7 x 4)	28 times (7 x 2 in first pair + 7 x 2 in second pair)
Second Sujood (Prostration)	7 times	28 times (7 x 4)	28 times (7 x 2 in first pair + 7 x 2 in second pair)
Total per Rak’ah	75 times	300 times	300 times

To help with counting, you can use your fingers, a prayer bead counter (tasbeeh), or a digital counter. Ensure you are consistent with your counting to achieve the full benefit of the prayer.

Pro Tip: When you are in the UAE, you’ll notice many mosques have digital counters available, but it’s always good practice to know how to count manually. Using your fingers can be a discreet and effective way to keep track, ensuring you don’t lose your count, especially during transitions between positions.

Tips for a More Focused Salatul Tasbih

To maximize the spiritual benefit of Salatul Tasbih, consider these tips:

• Understand the Meaning: Reflect on the meaning of “SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi wa la ilaha illAllah wa wallahu Akbar” as you recite it. This will deepen your connection and sincerity.
• Find a Quiet Place: If possible, pray in a quiet environment where you won’t be disturbed. This could be your home, a masjid, or a quiet corner.
• Be Mindful of Your Intention: Ensure your intention is purely for Allah’s pleasure and seeking His mercy.
• Maintain Proper Posture: Ensure your physical postures during prayer are correct and demonstrate humility before Allah.
• Count Carefully: Use a method that helps you count accurately without distracting you from the spiritual essence of the prayer.

Salatul Tasbih vs. Other Prayers

It’s important to distinguish Salatul Tasbih from other prayers. While the five daily obligatory prayers (Fard) are pillars of Islam, Salatul Tasbih is a voluntary (Nafl) prayer. It does not replace any of the Fard prayers. However, its voluntary nature does not diminish its immense spiritual reward. It serves as an excellent means for seeking additional blessings, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah.

Unlike the Sunnah prayers that precede or follow the Fard prayers, Salatul Tasbih is a standalone prayer with a unique structure and purpose. It’s a special act of worship that, when performed with sincerity, can bring about significant spiritual benefits.

Common Questions About Salatul Tasbih

1. Is Salatul Tasbih obligatory (Fard)?

No, Salatul Tasbih is a voluntary (Nafl) prayer. It is highly recommended due to its great virtues, but it is not obligatory for Muslims.

2. Can I pray Salatul Tasbih in the mosque or at home?

Yes, you can pray Salatul Tasbih in a mosque or at home. Praying in a mosque can offer a more focused environment, but performing it at home is also perfectly valid and beneficial.

3. How many times should I recite the Tasbih phrase “SubhanAllahi wal-hamdu lillahi…”?

You should recite it 15 times while standing before Ruku’, and 7 times each in Ruku’, between prostrations, and in both prostrations. This totals 75 recitations per Rak’ah.

4. What if I miss a count in a Rak’ah?

If you miss a count, do not worry. You can try to make up for it if you remember later in the same Rak’ah. If not, continue with the prayer as best as you can. The sincerity of your effort is what matters most to Allah.

5. Can women pray Salatul Tasbih?

Yes, women can and should pray Salatul Tasbih. They can offer it at home or, if conditions allow, in a designated prayer area in a mosque. They follow the same steps as men.

6. Is Salatul Tasbih prayed during Ramadan?

Yes, Salatul Tasbih can be prayed at any time, including during Ramadan. It is a highly recommended prayer, and its virtues are especially sought after during the blessed month.

7. What is the best time to pray Salatul Tasbih?

Salatul Tasbih can be prayed at any time of the day or night, except for disliked times. It is particularly virtuous to pray it once daily, weekly, monthly, or at least once a year. It is also recommended on auspicious nights and days.

Conclusion

Learning how to pray Salatul Tasbih is a rewarding journey that offers immense spiritual benefits, including the purification of sins and a deeper connection with Allah. By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently perform this beautiful prayer. Remember the step-by-step instructions, the specific Tasbih phrase, and the counting method to ensure you perform it accurately. Whether you are a resident in Dubai seeking to enhance your spiritual practice or a visitor looking to connect with Islamic traditions, Salatul Tasbih is a prayer that can bring peace, forgiveness, and blessings into your life. Embrace this opportunity to glorify Allah and seek His boundless mercy.