Ka`b bin Ujrah met me and said, "Shall I not give you a present I got from the Prophet?" `Abdur- Rahman said, "Yes, give it to me." I said, "We asked Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, 'O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! How should one (ask Allah to) send blessings on you, the members of the family, for Allah has taught us how to salute you (in the prayer)?' He said, 'Say: O Allah! Send Your Mercy on Muhammad and on the family of Muhammad, as You sent Your Mercy on Abraham and on the family of Abraham, for You are the Most Praise-worthy, the Most Glorious. O Allah! Send Your Blessings on Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You sent your Blessings on Abraham and on the family of Abraham, for You are the Most Praise-worthy, the Most Glorious.' "
The Excellence of Sending Blessings Upon the Prophet
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (3370) establishes the proper manner of invoking blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his family. The Companions, having been taught the tashahhud in prayer, sought further clarification on how to specifically send salutations upon the Prophet, demonstrating their deep love and reverence.
Scholarly Commentary on the Prophetic Formula
The prescribed formula connects the ummah of Muhammad to the spiritual legacy of Prophet Abraham, acknowledging both as foundational pillars of divine guidance. The repetition of "the Most Praise-worthy, the Most Glorious" emphasizes Allah's perfect attributes while making the supplication.
Classical scholars note that including the Prophet's family in these blessings reflects the comprehensive nature of Islamic mercy, extending beyond the individual to his righteous household and by extension, his entire ummah who follow his teachings faithfully.
Practical Implementation in Worship
This teaching demonstrates that acts of worship require both proper intention and correct formulation. The Companions' inquiry shows that even after learning the obligatory elements of prayer, they sought to perfect voluntary aspects of devotion.
The transmission chain from Ka`b bin Ujrah to Abdur-Rahman illustrates the meticulous preservation of Prophetic teachings, ensuring authentic practices would reach future generations unchanged.