Many Muslims look for information about the virtues of sending blessings upon the Prophet on Friday, given the important place this remembrance holds in Islam.
Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask blessings upon him and ask peace for him.”
Sending blessings upon Prophet Muhammad is an act of remembrance that Muslims practice throughout the week, with particular attention given to Friday and its eve.
Sending Blessings Upon the Prophet and Relief from Worries
A narration from Ubayy ibn Ka'b reports that he told the Prophet Muhammad that he frequently sent blessings upon him and asked how much of his supplication he should devote to doing so.
The Prophet replied that whatever amount he chose was acceptable and that increasing it would be better for him.
When Ubayy asked whether he should devote all of his supplication to sending blessings upon the Prophet, the Prophet replied:
“Then you will be relieved of your worries and your sins will be forgiven.”
The narration highlights the great spiritual significance associated with frequently sending blessings upon the Prophet.
What Is the Best Formula for Sending Blessings?
Dr. Ali Gomaa explained that sending blessings upon the Prophet is permissible through any sound formula that includes a supplication for blessings upon him.
He also identified the Ibrahimic formula, or Salat Ibrahimiyya, as the best-known and most established formula for sending blessings upon the Prophet.
It includes:
“O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, as You sent blessings upon the family of Abraham. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious. O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You blessed the family of Abraham. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious.”
The Ibrahimic formula is recited during prayer and is also a well-known form of sending blessings upon the Prophet.
Is Neglecting Blessings Upon the Prophet Considered Stinginess?
The Prophet Muhammad warned against mentioning him without sending blessings upon him.
Among the reported sayings is:
“It is enough stinginess that I am mentioned before a person and he does not send blessings upon me.”
Another narration states:
“The miser is the one in whose presence I am mentioned and he does not send blessings upon me.”
For this reason, Muslims are encouraged to send blessings and peace upon the Prophet whenever he is mentioned and to increase this remembrance.
Ten Major Virtues of Sending Blessings Upon the Prophet
Among the reported virtues of sending blessings upon Prophet Muhammad are:
- Receiving reward and good deeds.
- Elevation in rank by Allah's permission.
- Seeking forgiveness for sins through this righteous remembrance.
- A means of seeking the Prophet's intercession on the Day of Judgment.
- Relief from worries, as mentioned in the narration of Ubayy ibn Ka'b.
- The angels' blessings upon the person who sends blessings upon the Prophet.
- Following Allah's command mentioned in Surah Al-Ahzab.
- A means associated with the acceptance of supplication, particularly when supplication begins and ends with blessings upon the Prophet.
- Avoiding the characteristic of stinginess associated with neglecting blessings upon the Prophet when he is mentioned.
- Seeking blessing and goodness through abundant remembrance of the Prophet.
Sending Blessings Upon the Prophet on Friday
Muslims commonly increase their sending of blessings upon Prophet Muhammad on Friday and its eve. They may recite the Ibrahimic formula or another sound formula of blessings.
This remembrance should be accompanied by love for the Prophet, following his teachings, and maintaining other acts of worship, remembrance, and good deeds.
What is the best formula for sending blessings upon the Prophet?
The Salat Ibrahimiyya, or Ibrahimic formula, is among the best-established formulas for sending blessings upon Prophet Muhammad.
Can Muslims use different formulas when sending blessings?
Yes. Sound formulas that contain a supplication for blessings upon the Prophet may be used, while specific prescribed formulas should be maintained in their designated acts of worship.
What are the virtues of sending blessings upon the Prophet?
Reported virtues include reward, elevation in rank, forgiveness, seeking intercession, relief from worries, and fulfilling Allah's command.
Is it recommended to increase blessings upon the Prophet on Friday?
Yes. Muslims are encouraged to increase sending blessings and peace upon Prophet Muhammad on Friday and its eve.
What should a Muslim say when the Prophet is mentioned?
A Muslim may say “Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam”, meaning “May Allah's blessings and peace be upon him.”
