Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "When the Imam says: 'Sami Allahu liman hamidah (Allah hears the one who praises Him),' then say: 'Rabbana wa lakal-hamd,' (Our Lord, and to You be the praise).' Whoever says that and it coincides with the angels saying it, his previous sins will be forgiven."

Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 1063 | Book: The Book of The At-Tatbiq (Clasping One's Hands Together)

Linguistic Analysis

"Sami' Allahu liman hamidah" means Allah hears and accepts the praise offered by His servant. "Rabbana wa lakal-hamd" is the congregation's response, affirming that all praise truly belongs to Allah alone, our Sustainer and Lord.

Juridical Ruling

This hadith establishes the obligation (wujub) for the follower to say "Rabbana wa lakal-hamd" when the Imam says "Sami' Allahu liman hamidah" while rising from bowing (ruku'). This is part of the established sunnah in prayer.

Spiritual Significance

The synchronization between the worshipper's utterance and the angels' glorification represents a moment of divine connection where the earthly and heavenly realms unite in praising Allah. This blessed coincidence becomes a means for Allah's mercy to descend and erase previous sins.

Commentary on Forgiveness

The forgiveness of "previous sins" refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. This demonstrates Allah's immense generosity - that through proper performance of prayer with presence of heart, one can attain spiritual purification regularly.

Practical Implementation

The follower should say "Rabbana wa lakal-hamd" immediately after the Imam's "Sami' Allahu liman hamidah," not before or during it. One should contemplate the meaning while speaking these words to attain the spiritual benefits mentioned.