Al-Sajda: Understanding the Prostration of Recitation (Sajdah Tilawat)
The Qur’an is not only a book of guidance but also a source of spiritual elevation. One of the beautiful and significant practices associated with its recitation is Sajdah Tilawat, or the prostration of recitation. This act is a physical expression of humility and submission before Allah when encountering certain verses during Qur’anic recitation.

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What is Sajdah Tilawat?

Sajdah Tilawat (سجدة التلاوة) refers to the prostration required when reciting or hearing specific verses in the Qur’an known as Ayat-us-Sajdah. These verses instruct or imply prostration, and they are marked in the margin of most Mushafs with the word “سجدة”.

When one comes across such a verse—either by reciting or listening—it becomes wājib (obligatory) to perform a single prostration. It is recommended to do it immediately, but it can also be done later. However, delaying it unnecessarily without a valid reason is discouraged.

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What Does the Qur’an Say About Sajdah?

Several verses in the Qur’an explicitly or implicitly command believers to prostrate. These moments serve as reminders to physically demonstrate humility and surrender to Allah.

“So fall down in prostration to Allah and worship Him.”
(Surah An-Najm, 53:62)

“Only those believe in Our verses who, when they are reminded of them, fall down in prostration and exalt Allah with praise of their Lord, and they are not arrogant.”
(Surah As-Sajdah, 32:15)

“And they fall upon their faces weeping, and it increases them in humility.”
(Surah Al-Isra, 17:109)

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How Many Sajdahs Are There in the Qur’an?

There are 15 places in the Qur’an where Sajdah Tilawat is required. These are:

1. Surah Al-A‘raf (7:206)

2. Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:15)

3. Surah An-Nahl (16:26)

4. Surah Al-Isra (17:109)

5. Surah Maryam (19:58)

6. Surah Al-Hajj (22:18)

7. Surah Al-Hajj (22:77) – second sajdah

8. Surah Al-Furqan (25:60)

9. Surah An-Naml (27:26)

10. Surah As-Sajdah (32:15)

11. Surah Sad (38:24)

12. Surah Fussilat (41:38)

13. Surah An-Najm (53:62)

14. Surah Al-Inshiqaq (84:21)

15. Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:19)

Each of these verses contains a theme of divine command, awe of Allah, or a reminder of submission—all of which trigger the obligation of Sajdah.

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What Did the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Say About Sajdah Tilawat?

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ emphasized the spiritual power of Sajdah Tilawat in several hadith:

“When the son of Adam recites a verse of prostration and then prostrates, Shaytan withdraws weeping and says, ‘Woe to me! The son of Adam was commanded to prostrate and he obeyed, so he will enter Paradise. I was commanded to prostrate but I refused, so I will enter Hell.’”
(Sahih Muslim, Ibn Majah)

This hadith shows the reward and closeness to Allah that sajdah brings, as well as the contrast between the humility of believers and the arrogance of Shaytan.

Another hadith says:

“The closest that a servant comes to his Lord is when he is in prostration, so make plenty of supplication.”
(Sahih Muslim, 482)

This indicates that every act of sajdah—including Sajdah Tilawat—is a chance for the believer to spiritually draw nearer to Allah.

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What is the Ruling on Sajdah Tilawat?

• Who is obligated to perform it?
  Both the one who recites and the one who hears the verse are obligated to perform Sajdah Tilawat.

• Is Wudu required?
  While the majority of scholars prefer that Sajdah Tilawat be done with wudu, some allow it without it. However, performing it with wudu is more respectful.

• Is it part of Salah (prayer)?
  No, it is a standalone act and not part of the five daily prayers.

• Can it be delayed?
  Yes, it can be delayed if necessary, but it should be performed as soon as possible to avoid neglect.

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How to Perform Sajdah Tilawat (Step-by-Step)

The method is simple and does not involve a full Salah. Here are the steps:

1. Face the Qiblah.

2. Make the intention (niyyah) silently in your heart for performing Sajdah Tilawat.

3. Without raising your hands, say “Allahu Akbar” and go into sajdah.

4. In the sajdah position, recite:
   Subhāna Rabbiyal A‘lā (سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الأَعْلَى) three times.

5. Rise from sajdah while saying “Allahu Akbar.”

6. No Tashahhud or Salam is necessary.

If multiple sajdahs are to be done (for example, if you read several sajdah verses in one sitting), you can perform them one after another using the same method.

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Is It Necessary to Repeat the Verse Before Sajdah?

No, it is not required to repeat the verse before performing Sajdah Tilawat. The obligation is fulfilled by performing the sajdah itself, whether immediately or later.

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What if One Hears a Recorded Recitation?

There is a scholarly difference on this, but most scholars agree that hearing a live recitation triggers the obligation of sajdah. Recorded recitation does not require Sajdah Tilawat, but performing it voluntarily is permissible and rewarded.

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Conclusion

Sajdah Tilawat is a powerful act of devotion that reflects a believer’s obedience and humility. It is an opportunity to reconnect with Allah, to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, and to physically respond to the majesty of the Qur’an.

By understanding its meaning, rulings, and method, we can implement this beautiful Sunnah in our daily lives and gain its rewards. May Allah make us among those who listen, obey, and humbly submit to Him whenever we hear His words.

“And be of those who prostrate themselves (to Allah) and worship Him.”
(Surah Al-Hijr, 15:98)