The Prayer the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) Recommended to Read After Every Prayer
According to a narration from Mu’adh ibn Jabal (may Allah be pleased with him), the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) took Mu’adh’s hand and said:
“O Mu’adh, I swear by Allah, I truly love you. And then, O Mu’adh, I advise you not to leave reciting the supplication: “O Allah! Help me remember You, give thanks to You, and worship You in the best way!” after every prayer.” (Abu Dawud, Witir 26; Nasa’i, Mistakes 60. See also Tirmidhi, Zühd 30)
- How Should We Understand This Hadith?
We see in this hadith that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) practiced what he advised in the previous hadith. The beloved Messenger of Allah, with great sincerity, holds the hand of his beloved companion Mu’adh ibn Jabal and swears, declaring his love in his blessed heart: “I truly love you”. Such love and favor is surely worth more than all the worlds to Mu’adh.
However, another aspect of the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) behavior in this hadith is noteworthy. Holding his hand, addressing him by name, and swearing his love, he then addresses Mu’adh again by name in a warm and sincere friendship atmosphere, teaching him a supplication saying “Moreover, I advise you”. The behavior of our beloved Prophet, the physician of hearts, shows that beginning a speech with telling someone you love them before giving advice is conducive to its acceptance. In other words, advice requires a sweet tongue, a sincere style, and a loving environment.
Hadith number 1425 will be repeated later.
- What Lessons Should We Take From This Hadith?
- The Messenger of Allah was full of love for his companions and the Ummah.
- The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) openly expressed his love to some companions and gave them special advice that held particular meaning for them.
- It is appropriate to recite the supplication that the Prophet taught Mu’adh ibn Jabal after every prayer.