I asked 'A'isha, the mother of the believers, (to tell me) the words with which the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commenced the prayer when he got up at night. She said: When he got up at night he would commence his prayer with these words: O Allah, Lord of Gabriel, and Michael, and Israfil, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, Who knowest the unseen and the seen; Thou decidest amongst Thy servants concerning their differences. Guide me with Thy permission in the divergent views (which the people) hold about Truth, for it is Thou Who guidest whom Thou wilt to the Straight Path.
Narrated by 'Abd al-Rahman b. 'Auf reported:
Context
In this hadith, 'A'isha, the mother of the believers, recounts how the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) would begin his night prayers. He would invoke Allah, acknowledging His sovereignty over the angels and His knowledge of the unseen. This supplication emphasizes seeking guidance in matters of truth and differences among people, highlighting the importance of divine assistance in navigating complex issues.
Modern Application
When making dua, individuals can reflect on the Prophet's (ﷺ) approach by starting their prayers with sincerity and humility. This practice can enhance personal connection with Allah and provide clarity in decision-making, especially in times of uncertainty or conflict.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Prayer and Supplication because it illustrates the Prophet's (ﷺ) method of initiating prayer with a heartfelt supplication to seek guidance.
Indeed, your Lord knows, [O Muhammad], that you stand [in prayer] almost two thirds of the night or half of it or a third of it, and [so do] a group of those with you. And Allah determines [the extent of] the night and the day. He has known that you [Muslims] will not be able to do it and has turned to you in forgiveness, so recite what is easy [for you] of the Qur'an. He has known that there will be among you those who are ill and others traveling throughout the land seeking [something] of the bounty of Allah and others fighting for the cause of Allah. So recite what is easy from it and establish prayer and give zakah and loan Allah a goodly loan. And whatever good you put forward for yourselves - you will find it with Allah. It is better and greater in reward. And seek forgiveness of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.
My Lord, You have given me [something] of sovereignty and taught me of the interpretation of dreams. Creator of the heavens and earth, You are my protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Cause me to die a Muslim and join me with the righteous."
Say, "O Allah, Creator of the heavens and the earth, Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, You will judge between your servants concerning that over which they used to differ."
This hadith is #1703 from Sahih Muslim, in the Book of The Book of Prayer - Travellers. It is graded Sahih and narrated by 'Abd al-Rahman b. 'Auf reported:.