The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say in his bowing and prostrations, "Subhanaka l-lahumma Rabbana wa bihamdika; Allahumma ghfir li.' (Exalted [from unbecoming attributes] Are you O Allah our Lord, and by Your praise [do I exalt you]. O Allah! Forgive me).
Call to Prayers (Adhaan)
Sahih al-Bukhari 794
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say in his bowing and prostrations, "Subhanaka l-lahumma Rabbana wa bihamdika; Allahumma ghfir li.' (Exalted [from unbecoming attributes] Are you O Allah our Lord, and by Your praise [do I exalt you]. O Allah! Forgive me).
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the perfect manner of worship taught by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The supplication contains three profound elements: tasbih (declaring Allah's perfection), tahmid (praising Allah), and istighfar (seeking forgiveness).
"Subhanaka Allahumma Rabbana" affirms Allah's transcendence above all imperfections while acknowledging His Lordship. "Wa bihamdika" indicates that our declaration of His perfection is itself a form of praise. "Allahumma ghfir li" reflects the constant need for divine forgiveness, even during acts of worship, teaching humility and dependence upon Allah.
The placement of this supplication during ruku' (bowing) and sujud (prostration) - the positions of utmost humility in prayer - emphasizes that true worship combines glorification of the Divine with recognition of human imperfection. This comprehensive approach to prayer encompasses Allah's majesty, our gratitude, and our spiritual need for purification.