“Verily your Lord is Generous and Shy. If His servant raises his hands to Him (in supplication) He becomes shy to return them empty”
-(Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Tirmidhi)
SubhanAllah, we often forget how humbling the experience of making dua truly is. We forget the honor and ability of asking for anything we wish for. We forget how precious this time is and even when we do make dua, we often forget to remember others. Unconsciously we become so caught up with ourselves, that we forget to ask Allah (swt) the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful, for blessing and rewarding others in both this life and the next. Yet, our beloved Messenger of Allah (S) has taught us:
“The supplication of a Muslim for his brother in his absence will certainly be answered. Every time he makes a supplication for good for his brother, the angel appointed for this particular task says: “Ameen! May it be for you too,” [Muslim, 1494].
Prophet Muhammad (S) spent endless nights in sujud weeping whilst making dua for others. He prayed for us--his Ummah--before praying for himself. If we take a moment to reflect on Rasulullah (S) experience at Ta'if, we will be in awe. When he peacefully went to preach in the city of Ta'if, he was met with humiliation and excruciating pain. He was forced out of the city and left crying and soaking in blood. He fainted soon after and upon waking up, he immediately began making dua for the people of Ta'if. He prayed to Allah (swt) to bless them with Hidayah (guidance), without a hint of anger or hatred.
SubhanAllah, even if the littlest thing upsets us about someone we would not dare make dua for them. This is what we must change, and insha'Allah this week we will. Anytime we make dua, lets try to make sure we make at least one dua for someone other than ourselves--regardless of how that relationship may be.
May Allah (swt) strengthen our Ummah and bless us with selflessness as grand as that of our beloved Prophet (S), Ameen.
Sunnah In Action
Making Dua for Others
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