“Two phrases which are dear to the Compassionate One and are light on the tongue but heavy in the scale are: “How perfect Allah is and I praise Him; and How perfect Allah is the Most Great.” Agreed upon.
The Comprehensive Book - Bulugh al-Maram
This hadith, narrated by Abu Hurairah and agreed upon by both Al-Bukhari and Muslim, concerns two blessed phrases highly esteemed in Islamic tradition.
Meaning of the Phrases
"Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" (How perfect Allah is and I praise Him) combines tasbih (declaring Allah's perfection above all imperfections) with hamd (praising Allah for His perfect attributes).
"Subhanallahil-Azim" (How perfect Allah is the Most Great) emphasizes Allah's absolute greatness and majesty beyond all comparison.
Scholarly Commentary
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that these phrases are "light on the tongue" meaning easy to pronounce frequently, yet "heavy in the scale" indicating their immense reward on Judgment Day.
Al-Nawawi notes that being "dear to the Compassionate One" signifies these words are among the most beloved forms of dhikr to Allah, combining multiple virtues in concise expressions.
Spiritual Benefits
These phrases erase minor sins when recited consistently, as they embody comprehensive remembrance encompassing Allah's perfection, praise, and greatness.
The combination of brevity and profound meaning makes them ideal for constant repetition throughout daily activities, transforming ordinary moments into worship.