SIJDAH. [SAJDAH.] 🕋
Definition
Sijdah (Sajdah) refers to the act of prostration in Islamic ritual prayers known as Salah. It is one of the most critical physical postures during Muslim prayers, where a worshiper touches their forehead to the ground in submission to Allah.
Etymology
The term Sijdah, also spelled Sajdah, derives from the Arabic root “س ج د” (s-j-d), meaning “to bow down” or “to prostrate.” The usage of this term has a spiritual connotation, symbolizing humility and total submission to the divine.
Background
In Islamic theology, prostration holds a profound significance. It acts as a tangible expression of the worshiper’s submission to Allah, reflecting the utmost humility and reverence. Sijdah is performed twice in each unit (rak’ah) of Salah, embodying the completion and perfection of this spiritual act.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
While the concept of bowing and prostration isn’t unique to Islam:
- In Christianity, genuflection and kneeling are seen during specific prayers and rituals.
- In Hinduism, individuals typically perform pranam or pranama, a bow of respect.
- In Buddhism, prostration is part of certain rituals as a sign of respect and a means to cultivate humility.
Despite the differences in execution, these acts embody respect, devotion, and humility towards a higher power.
Synonyms
- Prostration
- Bowing Down
- Submission
Antonyms
- Rebellion
- Insurrection
- Arrogance
Related Terms
- Salah: The Islamic prayer encompassing various physical positions, including Sijdah.
- Rak’ah: One unit of the Salah prayer cycle, which includes Sijdah.
- Ruku: The act of bowing in prayer, another essential part of Salah, performed before Sijdah.
Exciting Facts
- The act of Sijdah activates specific pressure points on the forehead that some believe to have calming and spiritual benefits.
- Performing Sijdah involves precise positioning that went unchanged for over 1,400 years, emphasizing the enduring nature of Islamic traditions.
- The word “Sijdah” in the Qur’an often carries broader metaphysical implications beyond the mere act of physical prostration.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“To be in Sijdah is to realize one’s nothingness before the infinite grandeur of Allah.” — Yusuf Ali, Commentator of Qur’an
References
- The Noble Qur’an: Various Surahs discuss the importance of prostration.
- Sahih al-Bukhari: A canonical collection of hadiths that reference Sijdah.
- Fiqh as-Sunnah: A classical work on Islamic jurisprudence covering aspects of Salah, including prostration.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Spirit of Islam” by Syed Ameer Ali
- “Fiqh Us-Sunnah” by Sayyid Sabiq
- “The Book of Prayer” by Muḥammad Al-Jibālī
Quizzes
Inspiring Farewell
Continue your enlightening journey into the depths of Islamic worship, contemplating the profound symbolism and timeless traditions that define spiritual submission.
Thank you for exploring the essence of Sijdah with me. May your knowledge quest always lead to deeper understanding and wisdom.
Warmly, Layla Al-Haddad October 2, 2023
