We were sitting in the company of Sa'id b. 'Ubida when the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) came to us. Bashir b. S'ad said: Allah has commanded us to bless you. Messenger of Allah! But how should we bless you? He (the narrator) said: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) kept quiet (and we were so much perturbed over his silence) that we wished we had not asked him. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) then said: (For blessing me) say:" 0 Allah, bless Muhammad and the members of his household as Thou didst bless the mernbers of Ibrahim's household. Grant favours to Muhammad and the members of his household as Thou didst grant favours to the members of the household of Ibrahim in the world. Thou art indeed Praiseworthy and Glorious" ; and salutation as you know.
The Book of Prayers - Sahih Muslim 405
This narration from Sahih Muslim details the proper method of sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as taught by the Messenger himself when questioned by his companions.
Scholarly Commentary
The companions' initial hesitation and perturbation at the Prophet's silence demonstrates their reverence and concern for proper religious practice. This teaches us that seeking correct knowledge of worship is essential.
The prescribed formula connects the Prophet Muhammad's household with that of Prophet Ibrahim, establishing spiritual continuity and emphasizing the honored status of both prophetic lineages in Islamic tradition.
The phrase "as Thou didst bless" indicates that we ask Allah to bestow upon Muhammad and his family the same magnitude of blessings granted to Ibrahim and his family, recognizing Allah's perfect judgment in determining what constitutes appropriate honor.
The concluding mention of "salutation as you know" refers to the standard testimony of faith and greetings of peace that Muslims regularly recite, indicating this blessing should be incorporated into regular worship practices.
Legal and Spiritual Significance
This hadith establishes the obligatory nature of sending blessings upon the Prophet during prayers, particularly in the final tashahhud. Scholars agree this constitutes an essential component of valid prayer.
The specific wording provided offers the most complete and preferred method of sending blessings, though scholars note that other authentic formulations are also permissible.
The inclusion of the Prophet's household in the blessings reflects the comprehensive nature of Islamic mercy and the honor due to those closest to the Messenger of Allah.