Salah (الصلاة) is the Islamic prayer performed five times daily. Each rak'ah (unit of prayer) moves through a set sequence of positions, each with specific Arabic recitations. Learning both the what and the why of each position makes prayer more meaningful. This activity walks children through every position — from the opening Takbeer to the closing Tasleem — with the Arabic phrases, transliterations, and meanings for each step.
Prayer begins with Takbeerat ul-Ihram — raising both hands to the ears and saying "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest). This act marks the transition from daily life into a state of worship. Nothing must distract the worshipper once this Takbeer is said.
In Qiyam (standing), the worshipper recites Surah Al-Fatiha and another surah. Then comes Ruku (bowing): bending at the waist with hands on knees and saying "Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem" — "Glory be to my Lord, the Most Great" — three times.
Sujud is prostration — placing the forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and toes on the ground. The worshipper says "Subhana Rabbiyal A'la" — "Glory be to my Lord, the Most High" — three times. The Prophet ﷺ said the servant is closest to Allah in Sujud.
The prayer ends in the sitting position with Tashahhud — reciting the testimony of faith and sending blessings on the Prophet ﷺ. The prayer is then closed with Tasleem: turning the head right and left saying "As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah."