We used to pray behind the Prophet (ﷺ) and used to say: "As-Salamu 'Al-Allah. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Allah himself is As-Salam (Name of Allah), so you should say: 'at-Tahiyatu lil-lahi was-sala-watu wattaiyibatu, as-salamu `alaika aiyyuha-n-nabiyyu wa rahmatu-l-lahi wa barakatuhu, as-salamu `alaina wa `ala `ibadi-l-lahi as-salihin. Ashhadu an la ilaha il-lallah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan `abduhu wa rasuluhu."'
Oneness, Uniqueness of Allah (Tawheed)
Sahih al-Bukhari 7381
Hadith Text
We used to pray behind the Prophet (ﷺ) and used to say: "As-Salamu 'Al-Allah. The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Allah himself is As-Salam (Name of Allah), so you should say: 'at-Tahiyatu lil-lahi was-sala-watu wattaiyibatu, as-salamu `alaika aiyyuha-n-nabiyyu wa rahmatu-l-lahi wa barakatuhu, as-salamu `alaina wa `ala `ibadi-l-lahi as-salihin. Ashhadu an la ilaha il-lallah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan `abduhu wa rasuluhu."'
Commentary on Divine Names
The Prophet corrected the Companions' statement "As-Salamu 'Al-Allah" because Allah Himself is As-Salam - the Source of Peace and Perfection. It is improper to offer peace to the One who is Peace itself. This demonstrates the importance of understanding Allah's names and attributes correctly.
Tashahhud Structure
The corrected formula begins with declaring all greetings, prayers, and pure things belong to Allah (at-Tahiyatu lil-lahi was-sala-watu wattaiyibatu). Then sending peace upon the Prophet, followed by peace upon the worshippers and righteous servants of Allah. It concludes with the testimony of faith affirming Allah's oneness and Muhammad's prophethood.
Legal Implications
This hadith establishes the proper wording of Tashahhud in prayer. The correction shows that every aspect of worship must conform to divine guidance. The Companions' immediate acceptance demonstrates the obligation of following Prophetic instruction in matters of worship.
Spiritual Significance
The prescribed Tashahhud encompasses the complete relationship between the servant and Allah - beginning with praise, followed by sending blessings upon the Prophet, praying for the righteous, and culminating in the declaration of Tawheed. This comprehensive formula reflects the proper hierarchy of spiritual priorities.