Every Muslim must send blessings (Salawat) upon the Prophet (ﷺ) whenever they hear his name. This has been enjoined upon us through the Quran and Hadith.
Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam
“May Allah shower His blessings and peace upon him!”
For the Prophets (Anbiya)
When mentioning the names of the Prophets, out of respect, one should say “Alayhis-salatu Was-salam” (Blessings and peace be upon him) or “Alayhis-salam” (Peace be upon him). Simply calling them by their bare name is a sign of disrespect.
- Example: Hazrat Adam Alayhis-salam.
For the Companions (Sahabah)
When mentioning the Sahabah by name, out of honor and dignity, we should say:
- “Radiya Allahu Anhu” (May Allah be pleased with him) — for male companions.
- “Radiya Allahu Anha” (May Allah be pleased with her) — for female companions.
This is both a supplication (Dua) we make for them and a mark of respect for their immense sacrifices.
For Successors and Pious Predecessors
When mentioning those who came after the Sahabah, such as the Tabi’un (Successors), Tabi’ al-Tabi’un (Successors of the Successors), and Awliya (pious servants/friends of Allah), one should say “Rahimahullah” or “Rahmatullahi Alayhi”. > “May the mercy of God be upon him! May Allah grant him His mercy (Rahmah)!”
Additional Honorific Invocations Used for Saints and Scholars:
- “Qaddasa Sirrahu” / “Qaddasallahu Sirrahul Azeez”
“May Allah sanctify his magnificent secret.” - “Madda Zilluhu”
“May his shadow (benefit/protection) be prolonged.” - “Dammat Barakatuhum”
“May Allah cause their blessings (Barakah) to endure.”
