Durood Ibrahim, also known as the Ibrahimic Salutation, is one of the most revered forms of sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Islam. It is recited by Muslims around the world in prayer and on various occasions as a means of honouring the Prophet and seeking Allah’s blessings. In this article, we will explore the significance of Durood Ibrahim, its wording in Arabic, its meaning, and the benefits of reciting this beautiful invocation.
What is Durood Ibrahim?
Durood Ibrahim is a specific salutation that Muslims recite to invoke blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family. It is a part of the Tashahhud in the five daily prayers and is also recited individually as a form of worship. In Arabic, the Durood Ibrahim reads:
“اللهم صل على محمد وعلى آل محمد، كما صليت على إبراهيم وعلى آل إبراهيم، إنك حميد مجيد. اللهم بارك على محمد وعلى آل محمد، كما باركت على إبراهيم وعلى آل إبراهيم، إنك حميد مجيد.”
Translated to English, it means:
“O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim and upon the family of Ibrahim. Truly, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious. O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad as You blessed Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Truly, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious.”
This salutation not only honours the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also connects his legacy to that of the Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), who is revered as a patriarch of monotheism in Islam.
The Significance of Durood Ibrahim in Islam
Sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is an integral part of a Muslim’s faith. Allah Himself commands believers in the Quran to send blessings upon the Prophet. In Surah Al-Ahzab (33:56), Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and ask [Allah to grant him] peace.”
Reciting Durood Ibrahim is considered a fulfilment of this divine command. By invoking blessings upon the Prophet and his family, Muslims seek to express their love and gratitude for his role in delivering the message of Islam.
Origin of Durood Ibrahim
The wording of Durood Ibrahim originates from an authentic hadith. When some companions asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) how they should send blessings upon him, he taught them this specific invocation. In Sahih al-Bukhari (Book 60, Hadith 369), it is narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Say, ‘O Allah, send Your Mercy upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You sent Your Mercy upon Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Verily, You are Most Praiseworthy, Full of Glory.'”
This established Durood Ibrahim as a sunnah, or prophetic tradition, to be followed by Muslims.
Why Do Muslims Recite Durood Ibrahim?
Durood Ibrahim holds a special place in the daily lives of Muslims. It is commonly recited during Salah (prayer) as part of the Tashahhud. Muslims believe that by sending blessings upon the Prophet (PBUH), they draw closer to Allah, increase their own blessings, and gain spiritual rewards.
Spiritual Benefits of Reciting Durood Ibrahim
- Enhanced Connection to the Prophet: Reciting Durood Ibrahim strengthens a Muslim’s bond with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), fostering a sense of closeness to him and his teachings.
- Increased Rewards: According to a well-known hadith, every time a believer sends blessings upon the Prophet, Allah bestows ten blessings upon them in return, ten sins are forgiven, and they are elevated by ten ranks. This hadith is found in Sahih Muslim and serves as an encouragement for Muslims to frequently recite Durood Ibrahim.
- Protection from Hardships: Another hadith highlights that consistent recitation of Durood Ibrahim brings blessings, protection from hardship, and acceptance of supplications. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said:
“Whoever sends blessings upon me once, Allah will send blessings upon him tenfold, erase ten of his sins, and raise him ten degrees in status.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
These benefits highlight the spiritual value of incorporating Durood Ibrahim into one’s daily routine.
How to Pronounce Durood Ibrahim in Arabic
The correct pronunciation of Durood Ibrahim is essential for conveying the intended blessings accurately. Here is a step-by-step guide for non-Arabic speakers to improve their recitation:
- اللهم صل على محمد (Allahumma salli ala Muhammadin) – “O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad”
- وعلى آل محمد (wa ala aali Muhammadin) – “and upon the family of Muhammad”
- كما صليت على إبراهيم (kama sallayta ala Ibrahima) – “as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim”
- وعلى آل إبراهيم (wa ala aali Ibrahima) – “and upon the family of Ibrahim”
- إنك حميد مجيد (innaka Hamidun Majeed) – “Verily, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious.”
Taking the time to perfect the pronunciation of each phrase enhances the spiritual experience and reverence with which the Durood Ibrahim is recited.
When to Recite Durood Ibrahim
Durood Ibrahim can be recited at any time as a form of worship. However, there are specific times and occasions when it is highly recommended:
- During Salah: Durood Ibrahim is recited in the Tashahhud, the final sitting of Salah.
- On Fridays: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to increase their recitation of blessings upon him on Fridays, as narrated in Sunan Abu Dawood:
“Send blessings upon me frequently on the day of Jumu’ah, for it is presented to me.” (Sunan Abu Dawood 1047) - Before and After Supplication: Beginning and ending supplications with Durood Ibrahim is a recommended practice, believed to increase the likelihood of the dua (supplication) being accepted.
Durood Ibrahim and the Legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH)
By linking Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), Durood Ibrahim establishes a lineage of monotheism and divine guidance. Both Prophets are highly revered figures in Islam, known for their commitment to Allah and their unwavering devotion. Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), who is referred to as Khalilullah (the friend of Allah), laid the foundation for the monotheistic tradition that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) completed and preserved.
This connection serves as a reminder of Islam’s emphasis on monotheism, or Tawhid, and the shared legacy between the two Prophets.
How Durood Ibrahim Brings Peace and Unity
In a world where distractions and stress are ever-present, reciting Durood Ibrahim is seen as a source of peace and tranquillity. It reminds believers of the purpose of life, encourages them to embody the values taught by the Prophet, and brings spiritual serenity. When recited collectively, Durood Ibrahim fosters a sense of unity and brotherhood among Muslims, reinforcing the idea of a shared faith and a common goal.
Conclusion: The Enduring Power of Durood Ibrahim
Durood Ibrahim is more than just a phrase; it is a powerful invocation that encapsulates love, respect, and devotion to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his family. By reciting Durood Ibrahim regularly, Muslims seek to draw closer to Allah, increase their blessings, and live a life in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
Whether recited in prayer, on special occasions or as part of daily worship, Durood Ibrahim serves as a constant reminder of the Prophet’s role in Islam and the profound impact of his message. Through this blessed salutation, Muslims not only honour the legacy of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also reinforce their connection to a lineage of faith that spans generations.