سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ وَلاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَاللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
Glory be to Allah, and praise be to Allah, and there is no god but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest.
Subhanallahi walhamdulillahi wa la ilaha illallahu wallahu Akbar
When to Read
This beautiful practice is recommended when traveling, particularly when ascending a hill or elevated ground, and descending into a valley or lower ground. The essence is to remember Allah in different states of physical exertion and changing terrain.
How to Read
While ascending, you raise your voice saying 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest), and while descending, you say 'Subhanallah' (Glory be to Allah). Some narrations combine these as a complete remembrance: 'Subhanallahi walhamdulillahi wa la ilaha illallahu wallahu Akbar'. This practice involves vocalizing the remembrance, showing outward gratitude and recognition of Allah's power over all circumstances.
Virtues & Benefits
This simple yet profound practice connects us to Allah during our journeys. When going uphill, the increased effort often leads us to exclaim 'Allahu Akbar!' reflecting our awe at Allah's greatness and our reliance on Him to overcome challenges. When descending, the ease or potential danger prompts us to glorify Allah with 'Subhanallah', acknowledging His protection and sovereignty. The combined remembrance encompasses praise, glorification, and affirmation of Tawhid (Oneness of Allah), filling our hearts and tongues with His remembrance as we navigate the physical landscape.
Source & Authentication
Jabir radiyallahu 'anhu said: We were with the Prophet sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam on a journey, and when we ascended, we said: 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest), and when we descended, we said: 'Subhanallah' (Glory be to Allah). Another narration mentions: The people used to say Takbir when they ascended to any height, and Tasbih when they descended. The Prophet sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam said: 'Do you utter that which might be wrong?' So when they ascended, they would say: 'Subhanallah' (Glory be to Allah), and when they descended, they would say: 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest).