Abu Hurayra said, "In the morning, the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, would say, 'O Allah, We enter the morning by You and we enter the evening by You. We live by You and we die by You and to You is gathering.' In the evening, he would say, 'O Allah, we enter the evening by You and we enter the morning by You and we live by You and we die by You and to You is the return.'"
Textual Analysis
This noble supplication, transmitted through the trustworthy companion Abu Hurayra, contains profound theological truths. The repetition of "by You" (bika) emphasizes complete dependence on Allah's power and will in all temporal transitions and states of existence.
Spiritual Significance
The morning and evening versions mirror each other, teaching believers to begin and end each day with conscious recognition of divine sovereignty. The sequence "we live by You and we die by You" establishes that both life and death occur through Allah's decree alone.
The concluding phrase "to You is gathering/return" reinforces the Islamic eschatological belief that all creation will ultimately return to their Creator for accountability.
Practical Application
This suppletion serves as a constant reminder of tawhid (divine unity) throughout the believer's daily cycle. By reciting these words at dawn and dusk, one cultivates continuous God-consciousness and proper orientation toward the Hereafter.
The Prophet's consistent practice demonstrates the importance of connecting all temporal transitions to their divine source, transforming ordinary moments into acts of worship.