How to Pray Salah — Step by Step
Every position and recitation of a rak'ah, in order, each linked to a full explanation.
Salah (Namaz) is performed in units called rak'ahs, each following the same sequence of positions and recitations. Below is the complete order — tap any step to read its full Arabic text, transliteration and meaning.
Niyat (Intention)
Form the intention in the heart before beginning.
Takbir-e-Tahrima
"Allahu Akbar" formally opens the prayer.
Qiyam (Standing)
Recite Al-Faatiha and another portion of the Quran.
Ruku (Bowing)
Bow and glorify Allah, then rise.
Sujood (Prostration)
The closest position to Allah in prayer.
Jalsa (Sitting)
A brief pause between the two prostrations.
Attahiyat (Tashahhud)
Recited sitting, after two rak'ahs and at the end.
Durood-e-Ibrahim
Blessings on the Prophet, in the final sitting.
Dua After Tashahhud
A supplication recited just before Salam.
Salam
Turning the head right, then left, to end the prayer.
Related Prayer Topics
Not every rak'ah includes every step above (e.g. Jalsa only occurs between prostrations, and full Tashahhud only in the final sitting or after two rak'ahs). Two related topics extend beyond the basic sequence: