“I witnessed Ali having an animal brought to him to ride. When he placed his foot in the stirrup he said: ‘In the Name of Allah,’ (Bismillāh) . So then, once he had ascended upon its back, he said: ‘All praise is due to Allah.’ (Al-ḥamdulillāh) then he said: Glory is to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we were not able to do it. And, surely, to our Lord are we returning (Subḥān alladhī sakh-khara lanā hādhā wa mā kunnā lahū muqrinīn. Wa innā ilā rabbinā lamunqalibūn). Then he said: ‘All praise is due to Allah (Al-ḥamdulillāh)’ – three times – and ‘Allah is the Greatest (Allāhu Akbar)’ – three times – ‘Glory is to You, indeed I have wronged myself, so forgive me, for indeed none forgives sins except You (Subḥānaka innī qad ẓalamtu nafsī faghfirlī fa-innahū lā yaghfirudh-dhunūba illā ant).’ Then he laughed. So I said: ‘O Commander of the Believer! What caused you to laugh?’ He said: ‘I saw the Messenger of Allah do as I did, then he (ﷺ) laughed, so I said, ‘What cause you to laugh?’ He said: ‘Indeed, your Lord is very pleased with His worshipper when he says: “O my Lord, forgive me my sins, indeed, no one other than You forgives sins.”
Narrated by Ali bin Rabi’ah said:
Context
In this hadith, Ali bin Rabi’ah narrates an incident where Ali ibn Abi Talib (رضي الله عنه) is brought an animal to ride. Before mounting, he recites praises to Allah, acknowledging His power and mercy. This practice reflects the importance of beginning any task with the remembrance of Allah and seeking His forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) laughed at this act, indicating that Allah is pleased when His servant asks for forgiveness, highlighting the significance of humility and repentance.
Modern Application
In our daily lives, we can incorporate the practice of starting our tasks with the remembrance of Allah, such as saying 'Bismillah' before eating or beginning work. This not only brings blessings to our actions but also serves as a reminder to remain humble and seek forgiveness for our shortcomings.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Gratitude and Supplication because it emphasizes the importance of expressing gratitude to Allah and seeking His forgiveness before undertaking any action.
That you may settle yourselves upon their backs and then remember the favor of your Lord when you have settled upon them and say. "Exalted is He who has subjected this to us, and we could not have [otherwise] subdued it.
