The Prophet (ﷺ) said: Three supplications are answered, there being no doubt about them; that of a father, that of a traveller and that of one who has been wronged.
Hadith Text & Context
The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Three supplications are answered, there being no doubt about them; that of a father, that of a traveller and that of one who has been wronged." (Sunan Abi Dawud 1536)
This noble hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud's "Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Detailed Injunctions about Witr" highlights three categories of believers whose supplications are guaranteed acceptance by Allah's infinite mercy.
Commentary on the Father's Supplication
The father's du'a holds special status due to his natural affection and sincere concern for his children's worldly and spiritual welfare. Classical scholars note this includes both Muslim and non-Muslim fathers, though the righteous Muslim father's supplication carries greater weight.
Imam Al-Munawi explains that the father's heart is naturally inclined to seek goodness for his offspring, making his supplication pure and free from ill-intent, thus deserving divine acceptance.
The Traveller's Invocation
A traveller experiences physical hardship and spiritual vulnerability, turning to Allah with heightened sincerity (ikhlas). His heart is detached from worldly distractions, making his supplication more focused and heartfelt.
Scholars define "traveller" here as one on a permissible journey, distant enough to shorten prayers. His du'a is answered because he exemplifies complete dependence on Allah during his journey's perils.
The Wronged Person's Prayer
The one oppressed (mazlum) has his supplication answered without barrier, as Allah's justice necessitates responding to the cry of the victim. This serves as both comfort for the oppressed and warning for oppressors.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali emphasizes that this applies even if the wronged person is sinful, for injustice itself is condemned. The response may come swiftly in this world or be stored as reward in the Hereafter.
Divine Wisdom & Conditions
Scholars clarify that "answered" means Allah responds in one of three ways: granting the request immediately, storing greater reward for the Hereafter, or averting equivalent harm. The timing and form remain with Allah's wisdom.
These supplications are particularly potent when accompanied by sincerity, lawful sustenance, and presence of heart. The phrase "no doubt about them" confirms the certainty of divine response, encouraging believers in these situations to turn to Allah earnestly.