“I said to Umm Salamah: ‘O Mother of the Believers! What was the supplication that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said most frequently when he was with you?” She said: ‘The supplication he said most frequently was: “O Changer of the hearts, make my heart firm upon Your religion (Yā Muqallibal-qulūb, thabbit qalbī `alā dīnik).’” She said: ‘So I said: “O Messenger of Allah, why do you supplicate so frequently: ‘O Changer of the hearts, make my heart firm upon Your religion.’ He said: ‘O Umm Salamah! Verily, there is no human being except that his heart is between Two Fingers of the Fingers of Allah, so whomsoever He wills He makes steadfast, and whomever He wills He causes to deviate.’”
Hadith Commentary: The Heart's Steadfastness
This profound narration from Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with her) in Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 3522) reveals the Prophet's most frequent supplication, demonstrating the Islamic understanding of divine decree and human spiritual vulnerability.
Theological Significance of "Muqallib al-Qulub"
The divine name "Muqallib al-Qulub" (Turner of Hearts) affirms Allah's absolute sovereignty over human consciousness and spiritual states. Scholars explain that hearts naturally fluctuate between faith and doubt, certainty and confusion.
Al-Mubarakfuri comments in Tuhfat al-Ahwadhi that this name reminds believers that spiritual steadfastness is ultimately a divine gift, not merely a human achievement.
The Two Fingers Metaphor
The Prophet's explanation that hearts are "between Two Fingers of Allah" symbolizes complete divine control while preserving human responsibility. Classical scholars interpret this as demonstrating Allah's gentle yet absolute authority over human spiritual destinies.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes in Jami' al-Ulum wal-Hikam that this imagery conveys both Allah's power to guide or misguide and His mercy in responding to sincere supplication.
Practical Spirituality
This hadith teaches the balance between human effort and divine grace. While we must strive for righteousness, ultimate steadfastness comes through continuous supplication and recognition of our dependence on Allah.
The frequent repetition of this du'a by the Prophet indicates its importance in maintaining spiritual stability amidst life's trials and temptations.
Contemporary Relevance
In an age of constant distraction and ideological confusion, this supplication remains essential for Muslims seeking to maintain their faith amidst competing worldviews and spiritual challenges.
Scholars recommend incorporating this powerful invocation into daily worship, especially during times of doubt or spiritual testing.