Fatima complained of what she suffered from the hand mill and from grinding, when she got the news that some slave girls of the booty had been brought to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ). She went to him to ask for a maid-servant, but she could not find him, and told `Aisha of her need. When the Prophet (ﷺ) came, Aisha informed him of that. The Prophet (ﷺ) came to our house when we had gone to our beds. (On seeing the Prophet) we were going to get up, but he said, 'Keep at your places,' I felt the coolness of the Prophet's feet on my chest. Then he said, "Shall I tell you a thing which is better than what you asked me for? When you go to your beds, say: 'Allahu Akbar (i.e. Allah is Greater)' for 34 times, and 'Al hamdu Li llah (i.e. all the praises are for Allah)' for 33 times, and Subhan Allah (i.e. Glorified be Allah) for 33 times. This is better for you than what you have requested."
Context and Background
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 3113 reveals a profound spiritual lesson. Fatima, the beloved daughter of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), sought material assistance for her household chores, yet the Prophet offered her something far more valuable - a spiritual practice that would benefit her in both worlds.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's refusal to grant a servant from the Khumus (one-fifth of booty reserved for Allah's cause) demonstrates the strict adherence to divine distribution laws. Even his closest family members received no preferential treatment regarding public funds.
The prescribed dhikr (remembrance) - 34 takbirs (Allahu Akbar), 33 tahmids (Alhamdulillah), and 33 tasbihs (Subhanallah) - totals 100 remembrances. Scholars note this comprehensive formula encompasses Allah's greatness, gratitude for blessings, and purification from imperfections.
Spiritual Wisdom
This teaching emphasizes that spiritual treasures often surpass material solutions. The nightly practice strengthens faith, brings divine protection, and provides inner peace that worldly comforts cannot match.
The Prophet's gentle approach - visiting at night, placing his blessed feet on her chest - shows his profound love while teaching that true comfort comes from connection with Allah rather than temporal ease.