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
Najaf (Imam Ali's City)
The sacred city in Iraq housing Imam Ali's tomb and the Shia scholarly center.
Mihrab (Prayer Niche)
The semicircular niche in the mosque wall that indicates the qibla direction.
Iqamah (Second Call to Prayer)
The second call to prayer, recited just before the prayer begins.
Witr (Odd-Numbered Prayer)
A strongly recommended prayer with an odd number of rak'ah, prayed after Isha.
Ruku (Bowing)
Bowing from the waist during prayer as a sign of humility.
Mutahhirat (Purifying Agents)
The agents and methods that purify impure things according to Shia fiqh.