5 Common Mistakes in Salah That Many Muslims Don’t Know About
(And How They Affect the Acceptance of Your Prayer and Duas)
Salah (Namaz) is the second pillar of Islam and one of the most important acts of worship in a Muslim’s life. It is a direct connection between a believer and Allah (S.W.T). However, many of us make mistakes in Salah unknowingly, and these mistakes can affect the acceptance of our prayer and supplication (Dua).
In this blog, we will discuss 5 common mistakes Muslims make during Salah that are rarely talked about — yet they can impact the quality and reward of our prayer. Each point is supported with authentic Hadiths, Qur’anic insights, and practical ways to correct them.
Why Is Salah So Important in Islam?
Before we dive into the common mistakes, let’s understand the importance of Salah.
“Indeed, Salah prevents immorality and wrongdoing.”
(Qur’an, Surah Al-Ankabut 29:45)
Salah is more than a ritual — it’s a spiritual discipline that brings peace to the heart, cleanses sins, and strengthens our faith. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer.”
(Sunan Abu Dawood, 864)
This makes it even more critical to ensure we’re offering Salah correctly.
Mistake #1: Looking Towards the Sky While Making Dua or During Salah
Many people lift their eyes towards the sky while making Dua during Salah, thinking it shows devotion. However, the Prophet (peace be upon him) strictly warned against this act.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“People should stop lifting their gaze to the sky while praying, or their eyesight may be taken away.”
(Sahih Muslim: 429)
What Should You Do Instead?
Always lower your gaze and keep your eyes focused on the place of Sujood (prostration). This shows humility and concentration.
Mistake #2: Spreading Your Arms Like a Dog During Sujood
During Sujood (prostration), many people let their forearms rest flat on the ground, resembling how a dog lies down. This posture is prohibited.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Do the prostration properly and do not put your forearms flat with elbows touching the ground like a dog.”
(Al-Bukhari: 788, Muslim: 493)
Correct Way to Perform Sujood
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Keep your elbows lifted, not touching the ground
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Let your hands, knees, forehead, and nose touch the ground
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Maintain a balanced, respectful posture
Mistake #3: Yawning Without Trying to Resist It During Salah
Yawning during Salah might seem harmless, but it has spiritual consequences. The Prophet (peace be upon him) mentioned that Shaytaan (Satan) takes advantage of yawning.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When one of you yawns, he should cover his mouth with his hand, for it is the devil that enters.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari: 3289)
Yawning indicates laziness or lack of focus, which contradicts the spirit of Salah.
How to Handle Yawning in Salah
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Try to suppress the yawn as much as possible
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If it’s uncontrollable, cover your mouth with your hand quietly
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Refresh your Wudhu (ablution) if you’re feeling sleepy
Mistake #4: Looking Around During Salah
One of the most common — yet overlooked — mistakes is looking around during prayer. Whether it’s a child passing by, a phone ringing, or your thoughts drifting, losing focus ruins the spiritual essence of Salah.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“Beware of looking around in Salat, for it is a cause of destruction.”
(Sahih Bukhari: 718)
How to Improve Khushu (Focus)
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Keep your gaze fixed on the place of Sujood
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Eliminate external distractions before praying
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Make Dua before Salah to ask Allah for focus and sincerity
“Successful indeed are the believers, those who offer their Salah with full Khushu.”
(Qur’an, Surah Al-Mu’minun 23:1-2)
Mistake #5: Preceding the Imam in Congregational Prayer (Jama’ah)
In congregational Salah, many people rush ahead of the Imam, especially in Rukoo, Sujood, or Tashahhud. This is strictly forbidden.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“O people! I am your Imam. Do not precede me in Rukoo’, Sujood, Qiyaam, or sitting.”
(Sahih Bukhari & Muslim, Vol. 4)
Preceding the Imam not only breaks the unity of the Jama’ah but also disrespects the role of the Imam.
What You Should Do
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Follow the Imam’s movements after he completes them
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Do not anticipate his actions
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Stay synchronized with the group, maintaining discipline and harmony
Tips to Improve the Quality of Your Salah
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Understand what you’re reciting – Learn the meaning of Surahs and Du’as
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Make proper Wudhu – As the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Wudhu washes away sins
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Find a quiet place – Minimize external distractions
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Renew your intention (Niyyah) – Remind yourself why you are praying
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Seek forgiveness for mistakes – After Salah, ask Allah to accept it and forgive any shortcomings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is my Salah invalid if I made one of these mistakes?
Not always. Some mistakes affect the quality, while others might invalidate the prayer. If unsure, consult a scholar.
Can I fix my past prayers if I made these mistakes?
You can’t redo all your past prayers, but start improving from today. Sincere repentance and effort are what Allah loves.
What if I can’t focus in Salah?
Start slowly. Begin by understanding what you recite, and gradually build your khushu. It’s a journey, not a one-day fix.
Final Thoughts: Salah Is a Gift — Let’s Not Waste It
Salah is the moment when we stand before our Creator, pour out our hearts, and seek His mercy. Let us not ruin that by making avoidable mistakes. Learn, improve, and most importantly — pray with love and humility.
“Establish prayer for My remembrance.”
(Qur’an, Surah Taha 20:14)
Summary: 5 Common Salah Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Looking at the sky during Dua | Lower gaze, show humility |
| Spreading arms in Sujood | Keep elbows off the ground |
| Yawning without control | Suppress or cover it |
| Looking around during prayer | Focus on Sujood spot |
| Going before the Imam | Follow the Imam’s lead |
