Sana for Janaza – Understanding the Funeral Prayer Praise in Islam

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In Islam, Sana for Janaza refers to the phrases of praise recited during Namaz-e-Janaza, the funeral prayer for a deceased Muslim. The word “Sana” literally means “praise,” and in this context, it involves glorifying Allah and acknowledging His greatness as part of the funeral prayer. Sana is an essential component of Namaz-e-Janaza, reflecting humility, devotion, and a request for mercy for the deceased.

The practice of reciting Sana during Janaza was taught by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and has been followed by Muslims for over 1400 years. It not only honors the deceased but also reminds the living about the importance of faith, reflection, and preparation for the Hereafter.

Importance of Sana in Janaza

Reciting Sana in Namaz-e-Janaza is significant for several reasons:

  1. Praising Allah: It reminds the attendees that Allah is the Most Merciful, Most Powerful, and Knower of all things.

  2. Spiritual Preparation: It helps prepare the heart and mind of the congregation to focus on the funeral prayer and the supplications for the deceased.

  3. Following the Sunnah: The Prophet Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed Muslims to recite phrases of praise at the beginning of the prayer.

  4. Connection with the Deceased: By glorifying Allah, the congregation asks for mercy and forgiveness for the departed soul.

Sana is a way to seek Allah’s blessings and guidance not only for the deceased but also for the living, reminding them of the transient nature of this world.

The Text of Sana for Janaza

The Sana recited in Namaz-e-Janaza is the same as that recited at the beginning of regular prayers and goes as follows:

Arabic:
“Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta‘aala jadduka, wa la ilaaha ghayruka.”

Roman English:
“Subhanaka Allahumma wa bihamdika, wa tabaarakasmuka, wa ta‘aala jadduka, wa la ilaaha ghayruka.”

English Translation:
“O Allah! Glory is to You, and praise is to You. Blessed is Your Name, exalted is Your Majesty, and there is no god besides You.”

This short but powerful phrase is recited silently or aloud at the beginning of Namaz-e-Janaza, immediately after making Niyyah (intention) and before the first Takbeer.

Role of Sana in the Funeral Prayer

After reciting Sana, the prayer proceeds with four Takbeers (saying “Allahu Akbar”). Following the first Takbeer, Surah Al-Fatiha is recited silently. After the second Takbeer, the congregation recites Durood (Salawat) upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). During the third Takbeer, dua for the deceased is made, and after the fourth Takbeer, the prayer ends with Salam.

Reciting Sana at the beginning establishes a spiritual tone for the entire funeral prayer, focusing the heart on glorifying Allah and praying for mercy. It also reflects a humble acknowledgment of Allah’s power over life and death.

Spiritual Benefits of Reciting Sana

  1. Remembrance of Allah: Sana reminds participants of Allah’s greatness even in the face of death.

  2. Purification of Intentions: It helps purify the heart and aligns the intention of those praying with seeking Allah’s mercy.

  3. Following the Prophetic Tradition: Reciting Sana follows the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), ensuring that the funeral prayer is performed correctly.

  4. Reward from Allah: Attending Janaza and reciting all its parts, including Sana, carries immense reward, as mentioned in Hadith collections such as Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.

Conclusion

Sana for Janaza is a crucial part of the Islamic funeral prayer. It praises Allah, sets the spiritual tone of the prayer, and emphasizes submission to His will. By reciting Sana, Muslims not only honor the deceased but also reaffirm their faith and remembrance of Allah.

Understanding and practicing Sana in Namaz-e-Janaza strengthens spiritual awareness and ensures that the funeral prayer is performed according to the Sunnah. It serves as a reminder of human mortality, the importance of preparing for the Hereafter, and the eternal mercy of Allah.

May Allah forgive the deceased, grant them Jannah, and bless all those who recite Sana during Namaz-e-Janaza. Ameen.

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