Hadith Text & Reference

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) took my hand and said: 'I love you, O Mu'adh!' I said: 'And I love you, O Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).' Then the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Never forget to say in every prayer: Rabbi a'inni 'ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni 'ibadatik (My Lord, help me to remember You, give thanks to You and worship You well.)"

Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1303 | Book: The Book of Forgetfulness (In Prayer)

Context & Significance

This profound hadith demonstrates the special relationship between the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companion Mu'adh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him). The Prophet's expression of love was not merely emotional but carried divine instruction for spiritual elevation.

The timing of this instruction - following an expression of love - indicates that true love for the Prophet manifests in following his guidance and implementing his teachings in worship.

Scholarly Commentary

The Supplication's Structure: This comprehensive du'a contains three essential pillars of worship: Dhikr (remembrance), Shukr (gratitude), and Ibadah (worship). Scholars note that these encompass the entirety of one's relationship with Allah.

Dhikr (Remembrance): The foundation of spiritual life, encompassing both verbal remembrance and mindful presence of heart before Allah.

Shukr (Gratitude): Recognizing Allah's blessings and responding with obedience, acknowledging that every good comes from Him alone.

Husn al-Ibadah (Excellent Worship): Performing worship in the best manner - with sincerity, following the Sunnah, and with presence of heart.

Practical Implementation

Scholars recommend reciting this supplication during the sitting position (tashahhud) before the final salam, though it may be said at any appropriate moment in prayer where supplication is permitted.

The phrase "in every prayer" indicates the importance of consistency in this practice, making it a permanent feature of one's worship.

This teaching exemplifies how the Prophet (ﷺ) transformed moments of personal affection into opportunities for spiritual instruction, showing that love in Islam is fundamentally connected to obedience and worship.