Tasbih: The meaning and benefits of “Subhanallah”

In Islamic culture and spirituality, some phrases carry deep meaning and reflect faith and devotion. One such phrase is “Subhanallah,” a meaningful expression that goes beyond language and holds deep spiritual significance.

What does Subhanallah mean?

“Subhanallah” is an Arabic phrase frequently used by Muslims to express praise and recognize the perfection and greatness of Allah. “Subhanallah” is derived from the Arabic root word “س ب ح” (s-b-ḥ), which means to glorify, praise, or declare the perfection of something. The phrase “Subhanallah” specifically means “Glory be to Allah” or “Allah is free from any imperfection.””Subhanallah,” also known as “Tasbih,” is a form of dhikr in Islam that involves glorifying God by saying “Subhan Allah” (سُبْحَانَ ٱللَّٰهِ; meaning “Glory be to Allah“). This phrase is often repeated a specific number of times, using either the fingers of the right hand or a misbaha (prayer beads) to keep count.

Subhanallah in Arabic Text

سُبْحَانَ ٱللَّٰهِ

تمام تعریفیں اللہ کے لیے ہیں

Glory be to Allah

Historical Context of “Subhanallah”

In the Quran, the phrase “Subhanallah” appears nine times: seven times referring to Allah Himself, in verses such as 21:22, 23:91, 27:8, 28:68, 37:15, 52:43, and 59:23. It appears once in 30:17, instructing believers to say it, and once in 12:108, as a directive to the Prophet (peace be upon him).

The use of “Subhanallah” is also encouraged in the Hadith, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recommended its frequent recitation as a means of glorifying Allah and earning rewards.

Benefits of saying Subhanallah

• Hazrat Muhammad says that:

Whoever glorifies Allah by saying “Subhan-Allah” thirty-three times after each prayer, praises Allah with “Alhamdu-lillah” thirty-three times, and exalts Allah with “Allahu Akbar” thirty-three times—totaling ninety-nine. Then completes it with “La ilaha ill-Allahu, wahdahu la sharika lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahulhamdu, wa Huwa ‘ala kulli shai’in Qadir” , will have their sins forgiven, even if they are as numerous as the sea foam.

• The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “There are two phrases that are easy to say, weigh heavily on the scales, and are dear to the Most Gracious: ‘Subhanallah wabihamdihi’ and ‘Subhanallahil Azim'”

• In al-Hawi lil-Fatawi (2/40), Al-Suyooti narrates a hadith:

“Whoever says ‘Subhan Allah wa bi hamdihi’ will have an angel created for them with two eyes, two wings, two lips, and a tongue. This angel will fly with the other angels and will continue to seek forgiveness for the person who says this until the Day of Resurrection.”

• Abdullah bin Busr (R.A) reported that a man asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), “O Messenger of Allah, the prescribed acts of Islam are overwhelming for me. Can you tell me something to focus on?” The Prophet (PBUH) replied, “Keep your tongue continually moist with the remembrance of Allah.”

• The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Would you like me to tell you something better than what you asked for? Before you go to bed, say ‘Allahu Akbar‘ 34 times, ‘Alhamdulillah’ 33 times, and ‘Subhanallah’ 33 times. This is better for you than what you requested.”

Benefits of saying Subhanallah 100 times:

• If you want your sins to be forgiven, say “Subhanallah wa bihamdihi” 100 times a day. As mentioned in the Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever says ‘Subhanallah wa bihamdihi’ one hundred times a day will have all their sins forgiven, even if they are as numerous as the foam of the sea.”

When to say Subhanallah?

During Prayers and Dhikr:

Salah (Formal Prayers): You can say “Subhanallah” during the prayers, particularly in the tasbih (glorification) after Ruku (bowing) and in other parts of the prayer.

Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah): It is recited frequently as part of daily dhikr to keep a constant awareness of Allah’s greatness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “There are two phrases that are easy to say, weigh heavily on the scales, and are dear to the Most Gracious: ‘Subhanallah Wa Bihamdihi’ and ‘Subhanallahil Azim'”

In Times of Praise and Gratitude:

Say “Subhanallah” to express appreciation for Allah’s blessings and to recognize His infinite perfection.

Appreciating Natural Beauty with “Subhanallah”:

When you see something beautiful in nature, like a stunning sunset or a starry sky, saying “Subhanallah” is a way to appreciate Allah’s creation. It helps recognize His amazing artistry. The Quran says, “They glorify Him day and night, never getting tired” (21:20).

During Difficult Moments:

In difficult times, saying “Subhanallah” is a way to reaffirm your trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy. It serves as a reminder that even during hardships, Allah’s plan is flawless and His compassion is infinite. The Quran reassures us, “Do not weaken or grieve, and you will be superior if you are true believers” (3:139).

Tasbih of Hazrat Fatima (R.A)

In the early years of Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Fatimah’s marriage, Ali earned very little and couldn’t afford a servant. Hazrat Fatimah’s hands were sore from grinding, her neck ached from carrying water, and her clothes were dirty from sweeping. Knowing that Prophet Muhammad had some servants, Hazrat Ali suggested that Fatimah ask him for one. When Fatimah went to make the request, she found it difficult to speak. So, Hazrat Ali accompanied her to the Prophet’s house. The Prophet Muhammad did not grant their request for a servant but said, “There are many orphans in need. I will give you something better than a servant.” He then taught them a special form of Dhikr known as the “Tasbih of Fatimah.“

34 repetitions of “Allahu Akbar” (ٱللَّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ), meaning “God is Greater [than everything].” This practice is called Takbir.

33 repetitions of “Alhamdulillah” (ٱلْحَمْدُ لِلَّٰهِ), meaning “All praise is due to God.” This practice is called Tahmid.

33 times Subhanallah (سُبْحَانَ ٱللَّٰهِ), meaning “Glory be to Allah.” This practice is called Tasbih (تَسْبِيح).

Conclusion

In summary, “Subhanallah” is a profound expression of Allah’s perfection and glory. Whether used in daily dhikr, during moments of awe. Or in times of difficulty, it serves as a powerful reminder of Allah’s greatness and mercy. Through its repetition, believers connect deeply with their faith, seeking forgiveness and spiritual enrichment. The practice of saying “Subhanallah,” along with other phrases like “Allahu Akbar” and “Alhamdulillah,” offers a simple yet profound way to maintain constant remembrance and gratitude toward Allah.