Fatima came to the Prophet (ﷺ) asking for a servant. He said, "May I inform you of something better than that? When you go to bed, recite "Subhan Allah' thirty three times, 'Al hamduli l-lah' thirty three times, and 'Allahu Akbar' thirty four times. `Ali added, 'I have never failed to recite it ever since." Somebody asked, "Even on the night of the battle of Siffin?" He said, "Even on the night of the battle of Siffin."
Hadith Text
Fatima came to the Prophet (ﷺ) asking for a servant. He said, "May I inform you of something better than that? When you go to bed, recite 'Subhan Allah' thirty three times, 'Al hamduli l-lah' thirty three times, and 'Allahu Akbar' thirty four times. `Ali added, 'I have never failed to recite it ever since." Somebody asked, "Even on the night of the battle of Siffin?" He said, "Even on the night of the battle of Siffin."
Scholarly Commentary
This blessed narration from Sahih al-Bukhari demonstrates the Prophet's profound wisdom in guiding his daughter toward spiritual treasures rather than worldly comforts. When Fatima (may Allah be pleased with her) sought domestic help, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) offered her a means to attain divine assistance through dhikr.
The prescribed recitation - 33 glorifications (Subhan Allah), 33 praises (Alhamdulillah), and 34 declarations of Allah's greatness (Allahu Akbar) - constitutes a complete form of worship encompassing all aspects of tawhid. This totals 100 remembrances, a perfect number symbolizing completeness in devotion.
Sayyiduna Ali's steadfast adherence to this practice, even during the Battle of Siffin, illustrates the importance of maintaining spiritual routines amidst life's greatest challenges. This teaches us that connection with Allah must remain uninterrupted regardless of circumstances.
Practical Benefits
This dhikr serves as spiritual protection during sleep, brings tranquility to the heart, and accumulates immense rewards equivalent to freeing a slave - thus answering Fatima's original request in a transcendent manner.
The distribution of remembrances teaches balance in our spiritual practice - acknowledging Allah's perfection, expressing gratitude for His blessings, and recognizing His supreme majesty all in harmonious proportion.
Source Reference
Book: Supporting the Family | Author: Sahih al-Bukhari | Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 5362