Introduction
Salah (prayer) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and holds immense significance in a Muslim’s life. It is a direct connection between the worshipper and Allah (SWT). However, many Muslims unknowingly make mistakes in their Namaz that can affect its validity or perfection.
we will discuss the most common mistakes in namaz and provide practical solutions to correct them. Whether you are a beginner or have been praying for years, we will help you refine your Salah and ensure it is performed correctly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Salah
1. Not Performing Wudu Correctly
Common Mistakes:
Incomplete washing of body parts (e.g., missing spots on the feet or arms).
Not rinsing the mouth and nose properly during Wudu.
Ignoring the sequence (Tartib) of Wudu steps.
How to Fix It:
Follow the Sunnah method of Wudu as taught by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Ensure every obligatory part is washed thoroughly (Quran 5:6).
Be mindful of the order of steps: hands, mouth, nose, face, arms, head, ears, and feet.
2. Incorrect Takbeer in Namaz (Saying "Allahu Akbar")
Common Mistakes:
Raising hands too late or too early when saying Takbeer.
Not saying “Allahu Akbar” clearly or mumbling it.
Moving before completing the Takbeer.
How to Fix It:
Raise hands up to the shoulders or ears while saying Takbeer.
Pronounce “Allahu Akbar” clearly without rushing.
Ensure your body is still before moving into the next position.
3. Rushing Through Salah
Common Mistakes:
Performing Salah too quickly without proper concentration (Khushu’).
Not pausing between movements (e.g., standing, bowing, prostrating).
Reciting Quranic verses too fast without proper Tajweed.
How to Fix It:
Slow down and focus on each part of Salah.
Maintain a moderate pace in recitation and movements.
Remember the Prophet’s (PBUH) advice: “The worst thieves are those who steal from their Salah.” (Musnad Ahmad)
4. Incorrect Postures in Ruku and Sujood in Namaz
Common Mistakes in Ruku (Bowing):
Not keeping the back straight.
Bending too little or too much.
Not saying “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” properly.
How to Fix Ruku:
Keep your back parallel to the ground.
Say “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” at least 3 times.
Place hands firmly on the knees.
Common Mistakes in Sujood (Prostration):
Not placing the forehead, nose, hands, knees, and toes properly on the ground.
Elbows touching the floor (for men).
Not saying “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” at least 3 times.
How to Fix Sujood:
Ensure all seven body parts touch the ground (forehead, nose, palms, knees, toes).
Keep elbows raised (for men) and close to the body (for women).
Recite “Subhana Rabbiyal A’la” with focus.
5. Incorrect Sitting Position in Salah (Tashahhud)
Common Mistakes:
Sitting improperly (not in the Sunnah way).
Not reciting the full Tashahhud.
Moving fingers incorrectly during Tashahhud.
How to Fix It:
Sit in Tawarruk position (right foot vertical, left foot under) for the final Tashahhud.
Recite the full Tashahhud (At-Tahiyyat) clearly.
Point the index finger gently while saying “La ilaha illallah.”
6. Lack of Concentration (Khushu’)
Common Mistakes:
Getting distracted by thoughts or surroundings.
Praying mechanically without heart involvement.
Looking around during Salah.
How to Fix It:
Understand the meaning of what you recite.
Pray in a quiet place free from distractions.
Remember the Quranic verse: “Successful indeed are the believers, those who offer their Salah with Khushu’.” (Quran 23:1-2)
7. Missing Sunnah Acts in Namaz
Common Mistakes:
Skipping recommended (Sunnah) prayers.
Not raising hands in supplication (Dua) after Namaz.
Ignoring the Tasbeeh (glorification of Allah) after Salah.
How to Fix It:
Perform Sunnah Rak’ahs before/after Fard prayers.
Make Dua after Salah with raised hands.
Recite “Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar” 33 times each.
8. Incorrect Recitation of Surahs
Common Mistakes:
Mispronouncing Arabic words.
Reciting too fast without Tajweed rules.
Skipping Surah Al-Fatihah (which invalidates Salah).
How to Fix It:
Learn proper Tajweed from a qualified teacher.
Recite slowly and clearly.
Ensure Surah Al-Fatihah is recited in every Rak’ah.
9. Not Correcting Mistakes with Sujood al-Sahw
Common Mistakes:
Forgetting the number of Rak’ahs.
Missing a required part of Salah (e.g., Tashahhud).
How to Fix It:
If unsure, perform Sujood al-Sahw (Prostration of Forgetfulness).
Follow the Prophet’s (PBUH) example in correcting namaz errors.
10. Delaying Namaz Without Valid Reason
Common Mistakes:
Postponing Salah due to work or laziness.
Praying at the last minute (near the end of its time).
How to Fix It:
Pray Salah on time as Allah commands (Quran 4:103).
Set reminders for Salah times.
Conclusion
Salah is a act of worship, and performing it correctly is essential for every Muslim. By avoiding these common mistakes and applying the corrections, you can improve your Salah and gain maximum spiritual benefits.
If you want to learn Quran with tajweed and Salah properly, join our Online Quran Classes in karachi at QuranEZwhere expert tutors guide you step by step.
May Allah (SWT) accept our Salah and grant us Khushu’ in worship. Ameen!
