What is Ruku in Islam?

Ruku (Arabic: ركوع) is the act of bowing during Salah (Islamic prayer), symbolizing humility, submission, and reverence to Allah. It is an integral part of the prayer, performed in every unit (rak‘ah) after the recitation of Quranic verses while standing (qiyam). Ruku demonstrates a believer’s acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness and their own dependence on Him.

The Physical Act of Ruku

1. Posture of Ruku
   • In Ruku, the worshipper bends at the waist, keeping their back straight and parallel to the ground.
   • The hands rest on the knees with fingers spread, and the elbows are kept away from the sides.
   • The head is aligned with the back, neither raised nor lowered excessively, reflecting balance and attentiveness.
2. Transition into Ruku
   • After completing the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and other Quranic verses while standing, the worshipper transitions into Ruku by saying:
     • “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).

The Remembrance During Ruku

In the state of Ruku, Muslims glorify Allah by reciting the following supplication:

• “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” (Glory is to my Lord, the Most Great) – recited three times or more.

This declaration magnifies Allah’s greatness and acknowledges His supreme power and majesty.

Significance of Ruku

1. Expression of Humility
   • Ruku reflects the believer’s humility and submission before Allah, recognizing His infinite power and authority.
2. Acknowledgment of Allah’s Greatness
   • The words recited in Ruku reinforce the worshipper’s awareness of Allah’s greatness and their gratitude for His blessings.
3. Balance of Worship
   • Ruku, along with standing, prostration (sujood), and sitting, demonstrates the physical and spiritual balance of Islamic prayer.

Ruku in the Quran

The act of bowing is mentioned in the Quran as an essential part of worship and obedience to Allah:

• “O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord and do good – that you may succeed.” (Quran 22:77)

This verse emphasizes Ruku and Sujood as acts of devotion that lead to success in both this life and the Hereafter.

Lessons from Ruku

1. Humility in Worship
   • Ruku reminds Muslims of their dependence on Allah and their need to remain humble in all aspects of life.
2. Reflection on Allah’s Attributes
   • The recitation during Ruku glorifies Allah as the Most Great (Al-Adheem), encouraging reflection on His attributes.
3. Unity in Worship
   • When Muslims perform Ruku in congregational prayer, the synchronized act demonstrates the unity and equality of the Ummah (Muslim community).

Practical Tips for Perfecting Ruku

1. Correct Posture
   • Ensure the back is straight and parallel to the ground, maintaining balance and focus.
2. Mindful Recitation
   • Recite “Subhana Rabbiyal Adheem” with sincerity, reflecting on its meaning.
3. Avoid Haste
   • Take time to perform Ruku with calmness and concentration, allowing the heart to engage in worship.
4. Personal Supplication
   • While not obligatory, additional supplications can be made during Ruku, seeking Allah’s forgiveness and blessings.

Connection Between Ruku and Salah

Ruku is one of the key physical movements in Salah, following the standing position and preceding Sujood. Each part of Salah complements the others, creating a harmonious act of devotion. Ruku’s emphasis on humility balances the loftiness of standing and the profound submission of prostration, making it a vital element of worship.

Conclusion

Ruku is a significant act of worship in Islam, reflecting humility, reverence, and the acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness. It is more than a physical bow; it is a profound spiritual gesture that connects the worshipper to their Creator. Through Ruku, Muslims express their submission and gratitude, making it an essential component of the daily Salah and a reminder of their place before Allah’s majesty.

Written by AI.  A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.