The most frequent invocation of The Prophet (ﷺ) was: "O Allah! Give to us in the world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good, and save us from the torment of the Fire." (2.201)
The Excellence of This Comprehensive Supplication
This noble invocation, frequently recited by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari 6389, contains immense wisdom and comprehensive benefit for both temporal and eternal matters.
Scholarly Commentary on the Phrase "Good in This World"
The scholars explain that "good in this world" encompasses all beneficial matters including sound health, lawful sustenance, beneficial knowledge, righteous spouses, obedient children, and overall well-being in one's religious and worldly affairs.
Imam al-Qurtubi notes that this includes everything that facilitates obedience to Allah and does not distract from the remembrance of the Hereafter.
Understanding "Good in the Hereafter"
The "good in the Hereafter" refers to the ultimate success: forgiveness of sins, admission to Paradise, beholding the Divine Countenance, and salvation from the terrors of the Day of Judgment.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani emphasizes that this portion of the supplication seeks the highest levels of Paradise and proximity to the Almighty.
Protection from the Fire's Torment
The final portion seeks refuge from the punishment of Hellfire in all its forms - both the minor punishments that may occur in this world and the grave, and the major punishment in the Hereafter.
This comprehensive protection covers sins both major and minor, and includes deliverance from the trials of the grave and the horrors of the Day of Resurrection.
Wisdom Behind the Prophet's Frequent Recitation
The Prophet's frequent use of this supplication demonstrates its perfection in encompassing all needs of a believer without being excessively lengthy.
Al-Nawawi comments that this du'a combines all good of this life and the next while seeking protection from all evil, making it among the most comprehensive and beneficial invocations a Muslim can recite.