10 December 2012

Khushoo in prostration


Ibn Qudaamah (may Allah have mercy on him) said, "Try to feel modesty in your bowing and humility in your prostration because in such a position you have placed the soul in its proper place. In prostration you have returned the limbs to their place of origin-upon the dust from which they were created. Understand also the meaning of the remembrances with inclination and zeal."

Al-Qaasimee (may Allah have mercy on him) said, "It is desirable  that you renew the mention of the Greatness of Allah, the Sublime,  during them, that you strive to soften your heart, renew your  khushoo' and that you sense and realize the power of your Master  and His transcendency, then your own lowliness and insignificance.

Seek help from Allah to establish all of that in your heart and upon your tongue. Glorify Allah (above all defects) then give testimony for His Grandeur and that He is Mightier than every single thing. Repeat this so that it is confirmed and established (in your heart).  By saying, "Allah listens to the one who praises Him..." which means He will respond to the one who is grateful to Him, you raise your head from the bowing with certain hope. Then follow that with additional gratefulness by saying, "O Lord! To You belongs all praise." Then fall into prostration which is the highest form of submission and yielding oneself (to Allah). Place and fix the noblest of your limbs, the face, upon the lowest of things, the dust. Along  with this renew in your heart the greatness of Allah and say,  "Glorified is my Lord the Highest," then raise your head while  declaring His greatness and asking Him for your need by saying, "O Lord! Forgive me and show mercy to me." Confirm your modesty and humility by repeating this a number of times and then return to the prostration for a second time.

Source: The Path to Guidance by Ibn Al-Qayyim

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