Sana in Janaza Prayer (Namaz-e-Janaza): Meaning, Text, and Importance

Wiki Article

Namaz-e-Janaza (Salat al-Janazah) is the Islamic funeral prayer offered for a deceased Muslim. It is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah), meaning that if some members of the community perform it, the responsibility is lifted from the rest. This prayer is unique because it is performed while standing, without ruku (bowing) or sujood (prostration), and it consists of four Takbeers.

One important part of Janaza prayer is the recitation of Sana after the first Takbeer. Though short, Sana carries deep meaning, as it begins the prayer with praise and glorification of Allah before moving on to Darood and supplication for the deceased.

What Is Sana?

Sana is the opening supplication recited at the beginning of Salah. In regular daily prayers, Muslims recite Sana quietly after saying “Allahu Akbar.” In Janaza prayer, Sana is also recited after the first Takbeer, but with a slight addition specific to funeral prayer.

Sana begins by praising Allah’s purity, greatness, and majesty. Starting Janaza prayer with praise reminds believers that life and death are both under Allah’s control.

Sana for Janaza (Arabic Text)

The Sana recited in Janaza prayer is:

سُبْحَانَكَ اللّٰهُمَّ وَبِحَمْدِكَ،
وَتَبَارَكَ اسْمُكَ،
وَتَعَالَىٰ جَدُّكَ،
وَلَا إِلٰهَ غَيْرُكَ،
وَلَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ

The bold portion (Wa la ilaha illallah) is commonly added in Janaza prayer.

English Translation

“Glory be to You, O Allah, and all praise is Yours. Blessed is Your Name, and exalted is Your Majesty. There is no god besides You, and there is no deity except Allah.”

This powerful opening sets the spiritual tone for the rest of the Janaza prayer.

Position of Sana in Janaza Prayer

The structure of Namaz-e-Janaza is as follows:

1. First Takbeer – Recite Sana

2. Second Takbeer – Recite Darood (Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ)

3. Third Takbeer – Make dua for the deceased

4. Fourth Takbeer – Short supplication and Salam

After the Imam says the first “Allahu Akbar,” everyone folds their hands and recites Sana quietly.

Why Is Sana Important in Janaza?

1. Beginning with Praise of Allah

Islam teaches that any important supplication should begin with praising Allah. In Janaza prayer, before asking forgiveness for the deceased, believers first glorify and honor their Creator.

2. Reminder of Allah’s Power

Sana reminds us that Allah is perfect and free from all نقص (imperfection). Life and death happen by His command. This reflection brings humility and acceptance during moments of grief.

3. Spiritual Preparation

By reciting Sana, worshippers prepare their hearts for sincere dua. It shifts the focus away from worldly sorrow and toward divine mercy.

Spiritual Reflection During Sana

When standing in Janaza prayer and reciting Sana, a believer should reflect deeply on its meaning. Praising Allah at the time of death teaches patience and submission.

It reminds us:

• Allah is greater than our grief.

• Allah’s wisdom is beyond our understanding.

• Death is part of His divine plan.

In this way, Sana becomes more than just words—it becomes a source of comfort and faith.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Reciting Sana loudly instead of quietly.

• Forgetting the additional phrase often included in Janaza.

• Rushing through the words without understanding their meaning.

Janaza prayer is short, but it should be performed with concentration and sincerity.

The Broader Lesson of Janaza

The entire Janaza prayer, including Sana, serves as a reminder that every soul shall taste death. When Muslims gather for Janaza, they are not only praying for the deceased but also reflecting on their own return to Allah.

Beginning the prayer with glorification teaches that even in sorrow, faith remains firm. Islam encourages balance — grief is natural, but trust in Allah must remain strong.

Conclusion

Sana in Janaza prayer is a brief yet powerful opening that sets the spiritual foundation of the funeral prayer. By glorifying Allah first, believers acknowledge His perfection, authority, and mercy before asking forgiveness for the deceased.

Namaz-e-Janaza is a moment of unity, humility, and reflection. And it begins with words that remind us of the greatness of our Creator. When recited with understanding and sincerity, Sana strengthens faith and brings comfort to hearts during one of life’s most difficult moments.