Khushu (Humility in Prayer)
Inner humility, focus and devotion during prayer.
Khushu (Arabic: خشوع) is the state of inner humility, focus and devotion during prayer. It is the soul's presence and the heart's attentiveness to Allah during worship. Khushu is considered the soul of prayer — without it, the prayer is merely empty movements.
The Quran says: "Successful indeed are the believers, who are humble in their prayer" (Surah Al-Mu'minun 23:1-2). Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned that khushu would be one of the first things to disappear from this community.
To achieve khushu, it is recommended: to understand the meaning of what one recites, to pray slowly and calmly, to focus one's gaze toward the place of prostration, to remove distractions, to think about Allah's greatness, and to remind oneself that one is standing before Allah. Praying as if it were one's last prayer helps to achieve khushu.
Related terms
Ruku (Bowing)
Bowing from the waist during prayer as a sign of humility.
Marja' al-Taqlid (Religious Authority)
The highest religious authority in Shia Islam, whom the believer follows in prayer and legal matters.
Salat al-Wahsha (The Prayer of Loneliness)
A prayer performed on the first night after burial for the soul of the deceased.
Muwalat (Continuity in Prayer)
The requirement of continuous and coherent performance of the prayer's parts.
Khalifah (Caliph/Successor)
The political and religious leader of the Muslim community after the Prophet's passing.
Sunnah (Voluntary Prayer)
Voluntary prayers based on the Prophet's practice.