“Salawat on Prophet Muhammad (S) & His Family” -

The Powerful Blessings and Their Significance

Introduction:

In Islam, sending blessings and peace upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is a deeply revered practice. One of the most powerful and widely recited phrases is the Salawat .

اللهم صل على محمد وعلى آل محمد كما صليت على إبراهيم وعلى آل إبراهيم إنك حميد مجيد، اللهم بارك على محمد وعلى آل محمد كما باركت على إبراهيم وعلى آل إبراهيم إنك حميد مجيد.

This prayer not only praises the Prophet but also acknowledges the importance of his family, linking their blessings to those of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family.

What is Salawat:

Salawat (Arabic: صلاة) is a supplication asking Allah to send blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family. The most common form of Salawat is the one mentioned above:

اللّٰهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلٰی مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلٰی آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ…

This is recited in various situations, especially during prayer (Salah) and on special occasions like Friday. The phrase translates to:

“O Allah, send Your blessings upon Muhammad and upon his family, as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. Verily, You are Praiseworthy, Glorious.”

By invoking Salawat, Muslims express their love and respect for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and seek Allah’s blessings upon him and his family.

Sayings of The Ahl al-Bayt Importance of Salawat

Here are some sayings of the Ahl al-Bayt (The family of Prophet Muhammad (S) that emphasize the importance of sending Salawat (blessings) upon Prophet Muhammad and his family:

Sayings of Ahl al-Bayt:

Imam Ali (AS):
“The one who sends Salawat upon the Prophet is a person who is drawing close to Allah, and their sins are forgiven. It brings peace and blessings to the heart of the believer.”
(Source: Nahjul Balagha – Sermon 125)
Imam Hasan (AS):
“Sending Salawat upon the Prophet is the key to blessings in this world and the hereafter. It is a way to bring us closer to the Prophet and his family.”
Imam Husayn (AS):
“The one who sends Salawat upon our father (Prophet Muhammad) is as if they have honored us. It is a sign of love for the Prophet and his pure family.”
(Source: Al-Kafi)
Imam Zayn al-Abidin (AS):
“Those who send Salawat upon Prophet Muhammad and his family will be granted intercession by the Prophet on the Day of Judgment.”
(Source: Al-Sahifa al-Sajjadiyya – Du’a 32)
Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (AS):
“When you say Salawat, you invoke the mercy and blessings of Allah, and that will illuminate your heart and bring divine tranquility.” (Source: Bihar al-Anwar)

Imam Ja’far al-Sadiq (AS):”Allah has commanded us to send Salawat upon Prophet Muhammad and his family, as it elevates the status of the believer and brings them closer to Allah.”(Source: Al-Kaf

Quranic Verses Importance of Salawat

Quranic Verses about the Importance of Salawat:

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:56):
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace.”

This verse emphasizes that sending blessings (Salawat) upon the Prophet is a divine act that brings peace and blessings from Allah.

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:57):
“Indeed, those who abuse Allah and His Messenger – Allah has cursed them in this world and the Hereafter and prepared for them a humiliating punishment.”

This verse indirectly encourages respect and reverence for the Prophet, highlighting the importance of sending Salawat upon him to avoid such disrespect.

Surah Al-Imran (3:61):
“Say, ‘Come, let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women, and ourselves and yourselves. Then let us pray earnestly and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars.'”

This verse is linked to the Mubahala (mutual cursing), showing the importance of calling on Allah and invoking blessings upon the Prophet and his family.

Surah Al-Fath (48:29):
“Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those with him are forceful against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and prostrating in prayer, seeking bounty from Allah and [His] pleasure. Their mark is on their faces from the trace of prostration.”

This verse speaks to the qualities of the Prophet and his companions, indicating the divine favor upon them and emphasizing the importance of honoring them through Salawat.

The Significance of Sending Salawat

1. A Mark of Respect and Love for the Prophet (PBUH)

Sending Salawat is a way for Muslims to show their deep respect and love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). By invoking Allah’s blessings on him, Muslims acknowledge his unique status as the final Messenger and his unmatched contributions to Islam.

2. The Reward of Sending Salawat

Reciting Salawat brings immense rewards from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that for every time a person sends blessings upon him, Allah rewards them tenfold. Not only does this act of love bring the reciter closer to Allah. But it also serves as a means of forgiveness for their sins.

3. A Source of Intercession on the Day of Judgment

On the Day of Judgment, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) will intercede on behalf of those who regularly send Salawat upon him. It is said that the Prophet himself will intercede for the individual, asking for their forgiveness and salvation.

4. Strengthening the Relationship with the Prophet (PBUH)

By continuously sending Salawat, Muslims develop a personal connection with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The more one recites Salawat, the closer they feel to him, spiritually. This strengthens their faith and connection to the divine message of Islam.

The Family of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Salawat

The inclusion of the Prophet’s family, known as Ahl al-Bayt (People of the House), in Salawat has significant importance. In this supplication, Muslims ask Allah to bless not just the Prophet, but also his close family members—Ali ibn Abi Talib as (the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law), Fatimah sa (the Prophet’s daughter), Hasan as, and Husayn as (the Prophet’s grandsons).

1. Symbol of Purity and Righteousness

The Ahl al-Bayt are revered for their purity, righteousness, and commitment to Islam. By invoking Allah’s blessings upon them, Muslims acknowledge the moral and spiritual leadership they provided during and after the Prophet’s life.

2. The Special Relationship of Ahl al-Bayt with the Prophet

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) held his family in the highest regard. His love and affection for his daughter Fatimah sa, son-in-law Ali as, and grandsons Hasan as and Husayn as are well documented. They are considered the closest and most influential figures in Islamic history after the Prophet himself.

3. Shia and Sunni Views on Ahl al-Bayt

Both Sunni and Shia Muslims share a deep reverence for the Ahl al-Bayt, though they differ in their understanding of their roles. For Shia Muslims, the Ahl al-Bayt plays a central and theological role, and their spiritual leadership is crucial. For Sunni Muslims, they are honored figures in Islamic history, deeply respected for their contributions to the faith.

The Benefits of Reciting Salawat

Reciting Salawat regularly has countless benefits. Here are some of the benefits that Muslims believe come from sending blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family:

1. Cleansing the Heart

Reciting Salawat helps purify the heart, bringing peace and tranquility to the soul. It acts as a form of remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah and the Prophet, filling the mind with positive thoughts.

2. Relieving Stress and Anxiety

Sending Salawat is a spiritual practice that alleviates stress. It is a reminder of Allah’s mercy and the Prophet’s guidance, which can calm the mind and ease life’s burdens.

3. Receiving Allah’s Blessings

Allah’s mercy and blessings are showered upon those who recite Salawat. These blessings manifest in many forms, whether it’s in the form of guidance, health, wealth, or success.

4. Attaining Forgiveness for Sins

The Prophet (PBUH) himself mentioned that for every Salawat recited, Allah will forgive ten sins, elevate ten ranks, and grant ten blessings. It’s a simple way to seek forgiveness and spiritual growth.

Conclusion:

Sending Salawat on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family is not just a form of respect—it is a powerful supplication that brings spiritual rewards, inner peace, and closeness to Allah. It strengthens our relationship with the Prophet and keeps us spiritually grounded. The inclusion of his family in this prayer signifies the honor and reverence we hold for them in Islam. Reciting Salawat is a way of inviting Allah’s blessings into our lives and connecting with the best of creation.

Let us make it a part of our daily routine to send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family, and seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness through this beautiful prayer.

“Salawat on Prophet Muhammad (S) & His Family”