In the Name of Allāh.
An idolater once claimed that Muslims send Ṣalāt (i.e., seek Allāh’s Peace and Blessings) upon Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) due to his many crimes, suggesting he requires Muslims to perpetually seek forgiveness for him. How amusing! This reflects a disgraceful level of ignorance. Truly, ignorance and inanity are the roots of disbelief and associating partners with Allāh. Therefore, let’s lift the veil of ignorance and reveal the truth.
Indeed, sending Ṣalāt upon Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) is not about seeking Allāh’s Forgiveness for him; he has already been forgiven for any human shortcomings even before they occurred. Allāh says: “Verily, We have given you (O Muḥammad (ﷺ)) a manifest victory. That Allāh may forgive you your sins of the past and the future, and complete His Favour on you, and guide you on the Straight Path.” [Sūrah Al-Fath (48): 1-2]
In his humility, gratitude, and devotion to Allāh, the Prophet (ﷺ) dedicated himself to worship. Al-Mughirah Ibn Shu’bah reported that the Prophet (ﷺ) would pray until his feet became swollen. When he was asked, “Why do you do this when Allāh has forgiven your past and future sins?” The Prophet replied, “Shall I not be a grateful servant?” [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 1130, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2819]
Sending Ṣalāt upon Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) is an act of worship and obedience to Allāh, Who has commanded us to do so. Furthermore, this practice brings us Allāh’s Blessings and Forgiveness. Anas Ibn Mālik narrated that the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) said, “Whoever seeks Allāh’s Blessing for me once, Allāh will bless him tenfold, and will erase ten sins from him, and will raise him ten degrees in status.” [Sunan An-Nasa’ī 1297]
This is akin to seeking Al-Wasīlah (means of approach) for him. ‘Abdullāh Ibn ‘Amr reported that the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) said, “When you hear the caller to prayer, repeat what he says and then send blessings upon me. Verily, whoever sends blessings upon me, Allāh will send blessings upon him ten times. Then, ask Allāh to grant me the means of approach, for it is a station in Paradise not befitting but for one servant among the servants of Allāh. I hope I am that one servant. Whoever asks Allāh to grant me the means of approach, the intercession is permitted for him.” [Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 384]
Thus, whether we seek Allāh’s Peace and Blessings or Al-Wasīlah for Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ), he is already blessed with all of it. Our actions rather serve to benefit us.
Once again, it is the Day of Jumu’ah, dear brothers and sisters. Let us send a greater abundance of Ṣalāt upon the Prophet (ﷺ) and reap immense rewards.
I beseech Allāh to facilitate this for us and to grant us great rewards. Aameen.
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