خَيْرُ الدُّعَاءِ يَوْمَ عَرَفَةَ، وَخَيْرُ مَا قُلْتُ أَنَا وَالنَّبِيُّونَ مِنْ قَبْلِي: سُبْحَانَ اللهِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ.
The best of supplications is the supplication of the Day of Arafah, and the best thing that I and the Prophets before me have said is: 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi' (Glory be to Allah, and all praise is due to Him).
Khayrud du'a'i yawma 'Arafah, wa khayru ma qultu ana wan-nabiyyuna min qabli: Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi.
When to Read
This profound statement by the Prophet ﷺ highlights the immense virtue of the Day of Arafah itself as a time for sincere supplication. While this specific phrase, 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi,' is identified as the *best* of what can be said on this day, the entire day of Arafah is a golden opportunity for making all kinds of duas. Muslims are encouraged to spend this day in worship, remembrance of Allah, and earnest prayer, particularly during the time from the decline of the sun until sunset. This phrase, 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi,' can and should be recited abundantly throughout Arafah.
How to Read
Recite 'Subhanallahi wa bihamdihi' with sincere remembrance of Allah's perfection and gratitude for His countless blessings. Understand that this phrase encapsulates glorifying Allah and acknowledging all praise belongs to Him alone. Utter it with a tongue and heart that are truly present, reflecting on its beautiful meaning. It is best recited with conviction and hope for acceptance, as Arafah is a day when Allah's mercy is abundant.
Virtues & Benefits
The Prophet ﷺ explicitly states that this phrase is the 'best of what I and the Prophets before me have said.' This indicates its supreme importance and comprehensive nature. By glorifying Allah and attributing all praise to Him, one is essentially acknowledging His Lordship, His unique perfections, and His absolute sovereignty. This act of pure worship is incredibly beloved to Allah and can open doors to immense reward and acceptance of other prayers. The Day of Arafah itself is a time when Allah descends to the nearest heaven to forgive and grant requests, making sincere supplications on this day particularly potent.
Source & Authentication
Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: The Prophet ﷺ said: 'The best of supplications is the supplication of the Day of Arafah. The best thing that I and the Messengers before me have said is: Glorify Allah, and to Him belongs all praise...' (The Hadith continues with other supplications in different narrations). Another narration from Tirmidhi states: 'There is no day on which Allah frees more of His servants from the Fire than the Day of Arafah, and He will draw closer, then He will boast of them to the angels and say: What are these people seeking?' (Sahih Muslim 1348). This further emphasizes the unique status of Arafah for seeking Allah's forgiveness and mercy.