سُبْحَانَ رَبِّيَ الأَعْلَى - ثلاث مرات
Glory be to my Lord, the Most High - three times
Subhana Rabbi al-A'la - three times
When to Read
Sujud ash-Shukr (the prostration of gratitude) is performed when a Muslim receives a blessing, such as a new job, passing an exam, recovery from illness, the birth of a child, or warding off misfortune. It's a physical manifestation of immense thanks to Allah.
How to Read
It involves prostrating once, saying 'Subhana Rabbi al-A'la' (Glory be to my Lord, the Most High) three times, just like in the regular prayer prostration. Some scholars mention saying it once is sufficient. One should raise their head from prostration and say thanks. It's generally done without Takbir (Allahu Akbar) and without Salaam (saying Assalamu Alaikum at the end), similar to the prostration of recitation. The hands and knees should be on the ground, and the forehead and nose should be touching the ground. The supplication made during this prostration should be one of gratitude.
Virtues & Benefits
This act of prostration is a beautiful way to acknowledge Allah's favors and reinforce the connection with Him. It embodies humility and recognition of dependence on the Almighty. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself performed this prostration when he received good news. For instance, when he was given the news of the verses "Verily, We have granted you a clear victory" (Al-Fath 48:1), he performed sujood ash-shukr. This highlights its importance as a direct response to divine blessings.
Source & Authentication
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed the prostration of gratitude when he received news. For example, when he was given the good news of the revelation of the verse: 'Verily, We have granted you a clear victory' (Al-Fath 48:1), he performed the prostration of gratitude. [Sunan Abi Dawud 2774, graded Sahih by Al-Albani]. Another narration mentions him prostrating when the souls of his companions were returned to them after they were taken by the birds. [Sahih Muslim 110]. While the specific dua said during this prostration can vary, the act itself is prescribed.