Question
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What does “Al” means in Salawat at the end of Tashahhod in Salat?
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We say “God, bless Ale Mohamamad in the same way that you blessed Ale Ebrahim”. However Ale Mohammad are not equal in rank with Ale Ebrahim. Qur’an says that Ale Ebrahim were prophets or at least the leaders of their nation. Ale Mohammad however (who ever they are) were not prophets or the leaders of their nation. So what is the wisdom behind this comparison?
Thanks
Answer
In its limited connotation, the Arabic word ‘Aal’ is used for the progeny of a person. However, in a wider connotation, the word is also used for the followers – or the spiritual or moral progeny of an individual. According to my understanding, the word ‘Aal’ in the Durud-e-Ibraheem, is used for the followers of the Prophet (pbuh).
The said supplication is a request to the Almighty to grant the followers of Muhammad (pbuh) a comparable status in the world as were granted the followers of Abraham (pbuh). The first one thousand years of Muslim history bear witness of God’s acceptance of this supplication, during which time, the followers of Muhammad (pbuh) were granted a vast and magnificent rule in God’s earth.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Moiz Amjad
September 7, 2002