Exposition of the Hadith on Three Whose Supplication is Not Rejected

This noble tradition from the Prophet (peace be upon him) highlights three categories of believers whose supplications possess special acceptance before Allah Almighty. The text states: "The supplication of three persons is not rejected: one who has just ended a fast, a just imam, and one who has been wronged whose supplication is raised by God above the clouds and for which the gates of heaven are opened. The Lord says, 'I swear by my might that I will certainly help you, though it be after some time'."

Commentary on the First Category: The Fasting Person at Iftar

The fasting person at the moment of breaking their fast occupies a state of spiritual purity and physical weakness that renders their supplication particularly potent. Having abstained from lawful pleasures throughout the day for Allah's sake, the believer stands at a moment of divine acceptance when they fulfill Allah's command to break the fast. This state combines physical vulnerability with spiritual elevation, creating an ideal condition for supplication.

Scholars note that this refers specifically to the moment immediately following the Maghrib prayer when the fast is broken, as this represents the completion of an act of worship and obedience to Allah's command.

Commentary on the Second Category: The Just Ruler

The just imam or ruler who administers affairs with equity and implements divine law receives this special privilege due to the far-reaching consequences of their leadership. When such a ruler supplicates, their prayer encompasses the welfare of the entire community they govern. Their justice creates conditions wherein Allah's mercy descends upon the land, and their supplication reflects concern for the collective good rather than personal interest.

Classical commentators emphasize that the term "imam" here extends beyond political rulers to include anyone in a position of authority who exercises their power with justice and in accordance with Islamic principles.

Commentary on the Third Category: The Oppressed Person

The wronged or oppressed person holds a uniquely powerful position in Islamic spirituality. Their supplication ascends directly to Allah, bypassing normal celestial barriers, as mentioned in the hadith: "raised by God above the clouds and for which the gates of heaven are opened." This extraordinary divine response stems from Allah's attribute of Justice and His protection of the vulnerable.

The divine oath "I swear by my might that I will certainly help you, though it be after some time" demonstrates Allah's absolute commitment to vindicating the oppressed, even if the assistance is delayed according to divine wisdom. Scholars note that this delay may serve as a test for the oppressed or an opportunity for the oppressor to repent.

Spiritual Implications and Practical Guidance

This hadith teaches believers about Allah's boundless mercy and His special attention to those in vulnerable states - whether through worship (the fasting person), responsibility (the just ruler), or victimization (the oppressed). It encourages Muslims to be mindful of these auspicious times for supplication and to maintain justice in all affairs.

The tradition also serves as a solemn warning against oppression, as the supplication of the wronged carries guaranteed divine response. Wise is the believer who avoids wronging others, knowing that such actions invite the certain supplication of the oppressed against them.

Source and Authentication

This narration is recorded in Mishkat al-Masabih (Hadith 2249) and is originally transmitted by Imam al-Tirmidhi in his Sunan. Classical scholars have authenticated this tradition, noting its sound chain of transmission and its consistency with Quranic principles regarding divine response to supplication.