Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi: Meaning, Benefits & Recitation Guide
Can a simple phrase, repeated a hundred times a day, truly erase a lifetime of transgressions? According to Islamic tradition, the answer is a resounding yes, as the practice of reciting "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" holds profound spiritual significance and the promise of immense rewards.
For the devout Muslim, the remembrance of Allah (SWT) is a constant endeavor, a vital component of a life lived in accordance with the divine will. This remembrance, known as dhikr, takes many forms, from the structured prayers to the spontaneous invocations that punctuate daily life. Within this rich tapestry of devotional practices, the phrase "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" shines as a beacon of purity, a testament to the believer's devotion. "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" translates to "Glory be to Allah, and all praise is due to Him." It is a succinct yet powerful statement that encapsulates both the glorification (tasbih) and the praise (hamd) of Allah (SWT).
The significance of this phrase is further amplified when considering the accompanying phrase "Subhanallahil Azeem" which translates to "Glory be to Allah, the Great." This combination is a form of dhikr that Muslims commonly practice. The beauty of these words lies not only in their simplicity but also in the profound depth of meaning they convey. Each utterance is a declaration of Allahs perfection, His transcendence, and His absolute right to all praise. The repetition of this phrase fosters a sense of humility, gratitude, and connection with the divine.
The practice of dhikr, and specifically the recitation of "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi," is not merely a passive act of remembrance; it is an active engagement with the divine. It is a way of acknowledging Allahs presence in every aspect of life, from the grandest cosmic events to the most mundane daily occurrences. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized the importance of dhikr in numerous hadith (sayings and actions). These sayings provide a framework for understanding the benefits of this practice.
The hadith literature is replete with narrations that highlight the virtues of "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi." One such narration, reported by Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him), states that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "There are two statements that are light for the tongue to remember, heavy in the scales, and are dear to the Merciful: 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi, Subhanallahil Azeem' (Glory be to Allah and all praise is due to Him, Glory be to Allah the Great)." This hadith, found in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, underscores the profound impact of these simple words. Despite their brevity, they are considered weighty in the eyes of Allah (SWT), signifying their importance in the spiritual journey.
Another significant narration, as mentioned previously, highlights the remarkable potential for forgiveness associated with reciting "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" a hundred times a day. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said: "Whoever says, 'Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi,' one hundred times a day, will be forgiven all his sins even if they were as much as the foam of the sea." This hadith offers a tangible promise of redemption, a beacon of hope for those seeking to cleanse their hearts and purify their souls. The sheer magnitude of the forgiveness encompassing even the sins that seem as countless as the ocean's foam underscores the boundless mercy of Allah (SWT).
The practice of dhikr is also believed to strengthen the believer's connection with Allah (SWT), leading to an increase in rizq (sustenance), a sense of inner peace, and overall well-being. By constantly remembering Allah (SWT), one creates a shield against evil influences, both internal and external. This remembrance acts as a constant reminder of accountability, inspiring righteous conduct and discouraging sinful behavior. As the believer's heart is filled with the light of remembrance, the darkness of hypocrisy and worldly temptations gradually recedes.
The phrase "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi adada khalqihi" adds another dimension to the practice. "Adada khalqihi" means "as much as the number of His creation." Reciting this phrase magnifies the praise and glorification, acknowledging Allah's (SWT) immense creative power and the vastness of His kingdom. This variation is often recommended to be recited after each prayer, further embedding the remembrance into daily life.
The ease with which "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" can be incorporated into daily life is another of its key benefits. It can be recited at any time and in any place, making it accessible to all. Whether one is engaged in work, traveling, or simply resting, the phrase can be uttered silently or aloud, transforming mundane moments into opportunities for spiritual enrichment. The simplicity of the act, coupled with the profound rewards it offers, makes it an ideal practice for Muslims of all ages and backgrounds.
To understand the benefits of this phrase, one can consider the impact of a different perspective. When one consistently praises and glorifies Allah (SWT), it helps to avoid evil, increasing one's sense of well-being, as it offers the prospect of a closer connection with Allah (SWT).
The importance of this phrase is derived from its powerful impact on the soul. Constant recitation works to cleanse the sins and brings one closer to Allah (SWT), improving a sense of being and well-being, and making it easier to overcome adversity.
The spiritual practice is not merely about recitation, it's about understanding and internalizing the meaning of the words. Each utterance of "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" should be made with a conscious awareness of Allahs greatness, His perfection, and His mercy. This mindful approach transforms the recitation from a mere ritual into a deeply meaningful experience, fostering a connection with the divine that permeates every aspect of life.
The practice of remembering Allah (SWT) through the recitation of dhikr, specifically "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi," is a cornerstone of the Islamic faith. It is a powerful tool for purification, forgiveness, and spiritual growth. The ease of the practice, coupled with the profound rewards it offers, makes it accessible to all Muslims, encouraging them to engage with the divine in a way that brings peace, purpose, and lasting fulfillment. Reciting "Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi" a hundred times a day, as encouraged by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), is a path to a life enriched by faith, devotion, and the boundless mercy of Allah (SWT).
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Phrase | Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi |
| Meaning | Glory be to Allah, and all praise is due to Him. |
| Arabic Text | |
| Virtue | Light on the tongue, heavy in the scales, dear to the Merciful |
| Associated Phrase | Subhanallahil Azeem (Glory be to Allah, the Great) |
| Recitation Count | Recommended: 100 times a day |
| Benefits |
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| Additional Variation | Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi adada khalqihi (Glory be to Allah, and all praise is due to Him, as much as the number of His creation) |
| Recommendation | To be recited daily, at any time and place. |
| Source | Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) |
| Authentic Reference | Sahih al-Bukhari (6406) |
