Islam emphasizes the importance of love and reverence for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). One of the most beloved and spiritually rewarding acts in Islam is sending Darood Sharif (salutations) upon him. It is a way for believers to express their deep admiration, gratitude, and respect for the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ). Allah Himself commands the believers to send salawat upon the Prophet (ﷺ):
“Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, send blessings upon him and greet him with peace.” (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:56)
This verse highlights the significance of Darood Sharif, making it a highly meritorious act that brings immense rewards and blessings.
What is Darood Sharif?
Darood Sharif is the invocation of blessings and peace upon Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It is commonly recited by Muslims as a form of supplication and devotion. The Arabic term salawat is used for these blessings, which signify the believer’s love for the Prophet (ﷺ) and their hope for divine mercy.
Commonly Recited Darood Sharif
One of the most famous and frequently recited Darood Sharif is:
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
Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala aali Muhammadin, kama sallayta ‘ala Ibrahima wa ‘ala aali Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid. Allahumma barik ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala aali Muhammadin, kama barakta ‘ala Ibrahima wa ‘ala aali Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid.
Translation: O Allah! Send peace and blessings upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, just as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim and upon the family of Ibrahim. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious. O Allah! Bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, just as You blessed Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious.
The Virtues and Rewards of Reciting Darood Sharif
Sending salutations upon the Prophet (ﷺ) is a source of countless blessings and virtues. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Allah’s Mercy and Forgiveness
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever sends blessings upon me once, Allah will send blessings upon him ten times, erase ten of his sins, and raise him by ten degrees.” (Muslim: 408)
This hadith shows that reciting Darood Sharif is not only a means of honoring the Prophet (ﷺ) but also a way to gain Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
2. Intercession on the Day of Judgment
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The closest of people to me on the Day of Judgment will be those who send the most blessings upon me.” (Tirmidhi: 484)
By frequently sending salawat, believers can hope to receive the Prophet’s (ﷺ) intercession in the Hereafter.
3. Acceptance of Duas (Supplications)
The Prophet (ﷺ) advised that before making any dua, one should first praise Allah and send blessings upon him. He said:
“Every supplication remains suspended between the heavens and the earth until the blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ) are sent.” (Tirmidhi: 486)
This means that reciting Darood Sharif increases the likelihood of one’s prayers being accepted.
4. Relief from Hardships and Worries
A companion once asked the Prophet (ﷺ) about dedicating his supplications entirely to Darood Sharif. The Prophet (ﷺ) replied:
“If you do so, your worries will be taken care of, and your sins will be forgiven.” (Tirmidhi: 2457)
Thus, sending blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ) provides comfort and relief during difficult times.
5. Attaining Nearness to the Prophet (ﷺ)
Reciting Darood Sharif increases one’s spiritual connection with the Prophet (ﷺ). It brings peace to the heart and strengthens the love between the believer and the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).
Different Types of Darood Sharif
There are various forms of Darood Sharif that can be recited. Some of them include:
1. Darood-e-Ibrahimi (The Most Common Form)
This is the Darood recited in daily prayers (as mentioned earlier).
2. Darood-e-Taj
A well-known Darood that is often recited for seeking protection and divine blessings.
3. Darood-e-Tunajjina
This Darood is recited for relief from difficulties and hardships.
4. Darood-e-Qasida
A poetic form of Darood that expresses deep love and admiration for the Prophet (ﷺ).
The Best Times to Recite Darood Sharif
While Darood Sharif can be recited at any time, there are certain moments when its recitation carries greater rewards:
- During Salah (Prayer) – It is an essential part of the Tashahhud in daily prayers.
- On Fridays – The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Increase your recitation of blessings upon me on Fridays.” (Abu Dawood: 1531)
- After Adhan – It is recommended to recite Darood after hearing the call to prayer.
- In the last third of the night – The time of Tahajjud is a moment of great spiritual elevation.
- Before and after making Dua – To increase the acceptance of supplications.
- On special occasions – Such as during the month of Rabi’ al-Awwal (the birth month of the Prophet ﷺ).
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Reciting Darood Sharif
- Neglecting Darood in daily life – Many Muslims forget to include Darood Sharif in their daily routine.
- Reciting it without understanding – While it is meritorious to recite Darood, understanding its meaning deepens its impact.
- Rushing through the recitation – It is best to recite it with focus and sincerity.
- Ignoring the Sunnah format – The best Darood is the one taught by the Prophet (ﷺ) himself.
Conclusion
Darood Sharif is a powerful and blessed invocation that brings immense spiritual, emotional, and worldly benefits. By regularly sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), believers attain divine mercy, ease in life’s struggles, and closeness to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ). It is an act of love, gratitude, and devotion that every Muslim should incorporate into their daily worship.
May Allah bless us with the ability to send abundant salawat upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and grant us his intercession on the Day of Judgment. Ameen.
