The prayer of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) holds immense significance in Islamic tradition. As a revered prophet and a true servant of Allah SWT, Ibrahim’s supplications reflect his unwavering faith, humility, and reliance on the Almighty. Through his prayers, Ibrahim sought various blessings, guidance, and forgiveness from his Lord.
This article delves into the profound meanings embedded in the prayer of Prophet Ibrahim, encompassing his requests, seeking help, expressions of praise, and his plea for acceptance of worship. By exploring these aspects, we gain insight into the spiritual depth and devotion exhibited by Ibrahim and learn valuable lessons about connecting with our Creator through prayer.
Let’s explore the true meaning of prayer by examining the prayers recited by God’s beloved, particularly the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), as documented in the Quran.
The Prayers Of The Prophet Ibrahim In The Koran
Here are the four meanings of the prayer of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to Allah SWT:
Talab (Request)
The prayers of Prophet Ibrahim that signify talab (request) are mentioned in several places. In Surah Ash-Shu’ara [26]: 83-86, Prophet Ibrahim prays:
Rabbi hab li hukman wa alhiqni bissaliheen (83) Wa’jal li lisan sidqin fil-akhirin (84) Wa’jalni min warathati jannatin na’eem (85) Waghfir li abi innahu kana mina ad-dalleen (86)
In another verse, Prophet Ibrahim prays:
Rabbi habli minas saliheen, means “O my Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous.” (Surah As-Saaffat [37]: 100)
And in another verse, Prophet Ibrahim prays:
Rabbana wa ib’ath fi him rasulan minhum yatlou ‘alayhim ayatika wa yu’allimuhumu alkitaba walhikmata wa yuzakkihim, innaka anta al-‘Azeezu al-Hakeem. (Surah Al-Baqarah [2]: 129)
In Surah Al-Mumtahanah [60]: 5, Prophet Ibrahim prays:
Rabbana la taj’alna fitnatan lilladhina kafaru waghfir lana Rabbana, innaka antal ‘Azeezul Hakeem.” [Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60:5]
Istighasah (Seeking Help)
Prophet Ibrahim, like any human servant, also sought help from Allah SWT. He faced various trials and tribulations, and his only solution was to seek Allah’s assistance (istighasah). Here are some prayers of Prophet Ibrahim in the form of seeking help:
“Wa-idh qala Ibrahimu Rabbij’al hadha al-balada aminan wajnubni wa baniyya an na’budal-asnam.”
“Rabbi innahunna adlalna kathiran minan-nas, faman tabi’ani fa innahu minni, wa man ‘asani fa innaka ghafoorun raheem.” (Surah Ibrahim [14]: 35-36)
Wa la tukhzini yawma yub’athoon (Surah Ash-Shu’ara [26]: 87)
Tahmid (Praise)
Prophet Ibrahim also praised Allah SWT in his prayers, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for the blessings and honor bestowed upon him. One of the prayers of Prophet Ibrahim in the form of tahmid (praise) is mentioned in Surah Ibrahim [14]: 39:
Alhamdu lillahi alladhi wahaba li ‘ala al-kibari Isma’il wa Ishaqa. Inna rabbi la-samee’u al-du’a. [14:39]
“Praise be to Allah, Who has bestowed upon me in old age Isma’il and Isaac. Indeed, my Lord is the Hearer of supplication.” [14:39]
Plea for Acceptance of Worship
Although Prophet Ibrahim was considered ma’sum (infallible), he still pleaded with Allah SWT to accept his acts of worship. In Surah Al-Baqarah [2]: 127-128, Prophet Ibrahim prays:
“And [mention] when Ibrahim was raising the foundations of the House and [with him] Isma’il, [saying], ‘Our Lord, accept [this] from us. Indeed, You are the Hearing, the Knowing. Our Lord, make us Muslims [in submission] to You and from our descendants a Muslim nation [in submission] to You. And show us our rites and accept our repentance. Indeed, You are the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.'”
These are the four meanings of the prayer of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah SWT, which include requests, seeking help, praise, and plea for acceptance of worship.
Conclusion
The prayer of Prophet Ibrahim carries profound significance and meaning, serving as a timeless example of sincere supplication and profound connection with the Divine. Through his humble and heartfelt requests, Ibrahim teaches us the essence of surrendering to the will of Allah, seeking guidance, mercy, and forgiveness.
His prayer is a testament to the power of faith, as he turns to his Lord in times of trial and triumph, acknowledging His limitless wisdom and compassion.
As we reflect on the prayer of Prophet Ibrahim, let us strive to emulate his unwavering devotion and profound trust in Allah’s plan. May his prayer serve as a guiding light, reminding us of the transformative power of prayer and the unbreakable bond between the servant and the Creator.
May we find solace, guidance, and blessings through our own supplications, understanding that in prayer, we find not only comfort but also the path to spiritual growth and ultimate closeness to Allah SWT.