Beginning Supplication After the Obligatory Prayer with “Alhamdulillah”

Question

What is the ruling on beginning supplication after the obligatory prayer with the words “Alhamdu lillahi Rabb al-‘Alamin”? Some people call it an innovation (bid‘ah).

Answer

Praising Allah before making supplication is among the etiquettes of dua. The phrase “Alhamdulillah” is one of the highest expressions of praise, and Allah Himself taught this by placing “Alhamdu lillahi Rabb al-‘Alamin” before the supplication “Ihdina al-sirat al-mustaqim…” in Surah al-Fatiha. Therefore, calling it an innovation is due to lack of understanding.

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