Is the prostration in prayer the same as the prostration for gratitude?

Answer

In the name of Allah, the obligatory prostration in prayer requires placing the seven parts (forehead, nose, both palms, both knees, and toes of both feet) on the ground; without this, it is not valid. As for the recommended prostration of gratitude, it is performed in two stages: first placing the forehead on the ground, then the cheeks, and then returning the forehead to the ground. It is not required to place all seven parts on the ground. It should also be noted that a person may thank Allah during his prostrations in prayer, whether in all or some of them, while keeping the seven parts on the ground; however, this is not called a prostration of gratitude but rather giving thanks during prostration. Allah is the Guide and Knower.