Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "When the Imam, during the prayer, says, "Allah hears him who praises Him', say: 'O Allah! Our Lord! All the praises are for You/, for if the saying of anyone of you coincides with the saying of the angels, his past sins will be forgiven."
Beginning of Creation - Sahih al-Bukhari 3228
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) concerns the sacred moment in prayer when the worshipper transitions from bowing (ruku') to standing upright. The Imam's declaration "Sami' Allahu liman hamidah" (Allah hears him who praises Him) signals the congregation to respond with "Rabbana wa lakal-hamd" (Our Lord, all praise is for You).
The Congregational Harmony
The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasizes the profound spiritual significance when the believer's utterance coincides with the angels' praise in the heavenly realm. This synchronization represents a moment of divine connection where the earthly and celestial realms unite in worship.
Divine Forgiveness Through Synchronized Praise
The promise of forgiveness for past sins demonstrates Allah's immense mercy. When the believer's praise aligns perfectly with the angels' glorification, it creates a spiritual state worthy of divine pardon. This teaches us the importance of presence of heart and precision in following the prayer's prescribed form.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars explain that this synchronization refers to both the timing and the essence of praise. The forgiveness encompasses minor sins, while major sins require specific repentance. This hadith encourages Muslims to pray in congregation and follow the Imam meticulously, seeking this blessed moment of angelic harmony.