Sajda-e-Sahw (سجدہ سہو) is a special act of prostration performed at the end of Salah (Namaz) to correct minor mistakes made unintentionally during prayer.
It ensures that the Namaz remains valid and complete in the sight of Allah ﷻ.
It is done when a person forgets a Wajib (necessary) act, performs something extra, or experiences confusion during prayer.
See Also: The 6 Farz in Namaz
When is Sajda-e-Sahw Performed?
1. When a Wajib (necessary) act is missed
If any Wajib action is left out by mistake, Sajda-e-Sahw becomes necessary.
Examples:
- Forgot to recite Tashahhud (Attahiyat) in the second Rakat.
- Forgot to say “Subhana Rabbiyal Azeem” during Ruku.
- Missed the Qunoot Dua in Witr prayer.
2. When an extra act is done
If a person performs an action more than required in Salah unintentionally.
Examples:
- Prayed 5 Rakats instead of 4 in Isha.
- Performed an extra Ruku or Sajda by mistake.
3. Mistake in the sequence of prayer
If there is a mix-up in the order of actions.
Examples:
- Performed Sajda before Ruku.
- Stood up before completing Tashahhud.
4. Doubt about the number of Rakats
If a person becomes confused — for example, whether they prayed 3 or 4 Rakats.
What to do:
- Assume the lesser number (e.g., consider 3 if unsure between 3 or 4).
- Complete the Salah accordingly.
- Then perform Sajda-e-Sahw before ending the prayer.
5. Long pause or interruption during Salah
If due to distraction, talking, or hesitation, there is a long unnecessary pause in the prayer — Sajda-e-Sahw should be done.
6. Missing a Rukn (obligatory pillar)
If a major obligatory action like Ruku, Sajda, or Qiyam is missed by mistake and later remembered during the prayer, the missing act should be completed and Sajda-e-Sahw performed.
How to Perform Sajda-e-Sahw
1. When to Perform
Sajda-e-Sahw is done at the end of Salah, after Tashahhud (Attahiyat).
It may be done before or after Salam, depending on the school of thought (Hanafi, Shafi’i, etc.).
2. Method (Step-by-Step)
- Complete the Tashahhud (Attahiyat) as usual.
- Perform two Sajdahs (prostrations) for Sahw, saying in each: Subhana Rabbiyal A‘la (3 times)
- Sit again after the two Sajdahs.
- Recite Tashahhud, Durood, and any Dua (such as Rabbana Atina…).
- Complete the Salah with Salam (السلام علیکم ورحمة الله).
Important Rulings and Notes
- Sajda-e-Sahw is only for unintentional mistakes.
It is not valid for deliberate errors. - If a Farz (obligatory) act is missed, Sajda-e-Sahw will not make the Salah valid.
In such a case, the Namaz must be repeated. - Sajda-e-Sahw is a mercy from Allah ﷻ, allowing believers to correct minor mistakes so their worship is still accepted.
- It reflects humility and sincerity — showing that even in forgetfulness, a believer remembers Allah.
See Also: Adhan in Arabic, English Translation
In Short
| Situation | Example | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Missed Wajib | Forgot Tashahhud | Perform Sajda-e-Sahw |
| Extra Action | 5 Rakats instead of 4 | Perform Sajda-e-Sahw |
| Wrong Sequence | Sajda before Ruku | Perform Sajda-e-Sahw |
| Doubt in Rakats | Unsure if 3 or 4 | Assume lesser number + Sajda-e-Sahw |
| Long Pause | Unnecessary stop | Perform Sajda-e-Sahw |
| Missed Rukn | Forgot Ruku | Complete it + Sajda-e-Sahw |
Wisdom Behind Sajda-e-Sahw
Salah is the most important act of worship in Islam.
But as humans, we are prone to forgetfulness — and Allah, in His mercy, provided Sajda-e-Sahw as a means of correction.
It teaches us humility, focus, and respect for the sanctity of prayer.
