Standing in prayer is the first position a Muslim assumes after the opening takbir, and getting it right according to the Sunnah makes all the difference in the quality and acceptance of your salah. In this episode of “The Prophet’s Prayer” series, the proper posture during standing, the correct direction of eyesight, hand placement, and the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by another surah are carefully explained.
The Standing Position (Qiyam) in Detail
During the standing position, the worshipper’s entire body should face the Qiblah, including the toes. The eyesight should remain fixed on the place of prostration throughout the standing — looking around, up, or to the sides diminishes khushu (humility) in the prayer. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) never allowed his gaze to wander from the place of his sujud during prayer.
“Those who look up, down, right or left during prayer lose their khushu. The Prophet’s eyesight would never depart from the position of his prostration during salah.”
Recitation After Surah Al-Fatihah
- After Al-Fatihah, recite another surah or portion of the Quran — this can be short or long depending on the prayer
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) sometimes recited the entirety of Surah Al-Baqarah, Al-Imran, and An-Nisa in a single rak’ah
- Surah Al-Ikhlas is equivalent to one-third of the Quran — a companion who recited it in every rak’ah was told by the Prophet that Allah loves him for his love of this surah
- Any surah or verses from the Quran may be recited after Al-Fatihah — the choice is up to the worshipper
“A companion used to recite Surah Al-Ikhlas in every rak’ah. When the Prophet asked him why, he said: ‘Because I love this surah.’ The Prophet replied: ‘Your love of it will enter you into Paradise.'”
Perfecting Your Standing in Prayer
The standing position is where the words of Allah flow from the believer’s tongue directly to their Lord. By maintaining proper posture, keeping the gaze focused, and reciting with understanding and devotion, this pillar of prayer becomes a source of immense spiritual reward. Take the time to memorize additional surahs and vary your recitation, following the beautiful example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
