Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said that Allah Almighty said, "I am according to My slave's opinion of Me, and I am with him when He calls on Me.'"
The Divine Response to Human Expectation
This noble hadith qudsi, transmitted through the trustworthy companion Abu Hurayra and recorded in Imam al-Bukhari's "Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 616", reveals the profound connection between a servant's perception of their Lord and the Divine response. Allah Almighty declares His treatment of His servant corresponds directly to that servant's expectation and conviction.
Scholarly Commentary on "My Slave's Opinion of Me"
The phrase "My slave's opinion of Me" encompasses the servant's certainty in Allah's mercy, generosity, forgiveness, and power. When one supplicates with firm conviction that Allah will respond, this positive expectation becomes the vessel through which Divine grace flows.
Scholars explain that good opinion (husn al-dhann) includes: believing Allah accepts repentance, answers supplication, forgives sins, and bestows mercy. Conversely, poor opinion implies doubt in these Divine attributes, which constricts the channels of blessing.
The Meaning of "I Am With Him When He Calls On Me"
This portion signifies Allah's special proximity to the supplicant. The Divine "with-ness" here denotes answered prayers, facilitated means, and spiritual support. It reflects the hadith's promise: "Your Lord is too Generous to turn away empty the hands His servant raises to Him."
This companionship manifests through: acceptance of supplication, protection from harm, illumination of the heart, and strengthening of faith. The caller experiences Divine care in both worldly and spiritual matters.
Practical Implications for Supplication
The believer should approach supplication with: certainty of response, awareness of Allah's boundless generosity, and absence of despair. One must eliminate thoughts that Allah might neglect or reject their plea.
This teaching transforms supplication from mere ritual to intimate conversation with a Responsive, Merciful Lord. It encourages persistence in du'a while maintaining positive expectation, knowing Allah's timing and wisdom surpass human understanding.