Muslims turn their heads when praying primarily to signify the conclusion of their prayer and to offer a salutation of peace. This specific action is performed at the very end of the prayer ritual.
The Concluding Salutation (Taslim)
The act of turning the head at the end of the prayer, known as the *Taslim*, marks its formal completion. It involves turning the face to the right, and then typically to the left, saying a specific phrase.- To the Right: When Muslims first turn their face to the right, they say, "Peace be upon you, and the mercy and blessings of Allah."
- The Recipient: This salutation is specifically directed towards the angels whom Muslims believe accompany each human being throughout their lives. These angels are traditionally believed to be present to record a person's actions. The act serves as a greeting and a farewell to these celestial beings.
This concluding movement is an essential part of the prayer, bringing it to a spiritual and formal close and acknowledging the presence of divine witnesses.
