The Book of Prayers - Sahih Muslim 407

They (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) said: Apostle of Allah, how should we bless you? He (the Holy Prophet) observed: Say:" O Allah! bless Muhammad, his wives and his offspring as Thou didst bless Ibrahim, and grant favours to Muhammad, and his wives and his offspring as Thou didst grant favours to the family of Ibrahim; Thou art Praiseworthy and Glorious."

Commentary on the Prophetic Blessing

This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim establishes the comprehensive manner of sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Companions' inquiry demonstrates their deep love and desire to honor the Prophet properly.

The prescribed formula connects the blessings upon Prophet Muhammad with those upon Prophet Ibrahim, establishing a spiritual lineage and emphasizing the continuity of divine guidance. The inclusion of the Prophet's wives and offspring extends the blessings to his entire household, reflecting the comprehensive nature of Islamic mercy.

The dual invocation - "bless" and "grant favors" - encompasses both spiritual elevation and worldly grace. The concluding attribution "Thou art Praiseworthy and Glorious" affirms Allah's perfect attributes while making the supplication.

Scholarly Insights

Classical scholars note that this blessing combines both prayer for spiritual elevation (blessing) and material grace (favors), creating a complete supplication for the Prophet's station.

The specification of wives and offspring indicates the special status of the Prophet's family in Islamic tradition and the importance of including them in our devotional practices.

By linking to Prophet Ibrahim, this blessing emphasizes the unity of prophetic message and the fulfillment of Ibrahim's prayer for a messenger from among his descendants.