We said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) This is (i.e. we know) the greeting to you; will you tell us how to send Salat on you?" He said, "Say: 'Allahumma Salli 'ala Muhammadin `Abdika wa rasulika kama sal-laita 'ala Ibrahima wa barik 'ala Muhammadin wa all Muhammadin kama barakta 'ala Ibrahima wa `Ali Ibrahim."
Tafsir of the Invocation for the Prophet
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 6358 contains the complete formulation for sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), taught by the Prophet himself in response to his companions' inquiry.
Linguistic Analysis
"Allahumma Salli" - O Allah, send blessings. The word "Salli" denotes Allah's mercy, praise, and honor bestowed upon His servant.
"ala Muhammadin `Abdika wa rasulika" - upon Muhammad, Your slave and messenger. This establishes the dual status of the Prophet as both servant and messenger.
Comparative Blessings
"kama sal-laita 'ala Ibrahima" - as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim. This connects the blessing to the esteemed prophet Ibrahim, establishing continuity in divine favor.
"wa barik 'ala Muhammadin" - and bless Muhammad. The word "barik" signifies the perpetuity and abundance of divine goodness.
Scholarly Commentary
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that this invocation encompasses both spiritual and worldly blessings for the Prophet and his followers.
Al-Qurtubi notes that including the family of Muhammad and Ibrahim demonstrates the comprehensive nature of this supplication.
The repetition of the measure "kama" (as) indicates that we seek for the Prophet and his family what was granted to Ibrahim and his family.
Legal Rulings
This invocation is recommended during tashahhud in prayer and whenever the Prophet's name is mentioned.
Scholars differ on its obligation, with the majority considering it highly recommended (sunnah mu'akkadah) in prayer.