سُبْحَانَ الَّذِيْ سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِيْنَ وَإِنَّا إِلَى رَبِّنَا لَمُنْقَلِبُوْنَ
Glory be to Allah Who has subjected this to us, and we could not have done it ourselves. And to our Lord we will indeed return.
Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina, wa inna ila Rabbina la-munqalibun.
When to Read
This beautiful supplication is recited when riding a mode of transport. While not specifically for a rainbow, the sentiment of marveling at creation and acknowledging Allah's power is perfect when witnessing such a wondrous natural phenomenon. Seeing a rainbow can evoke a similar awe, reminding us of Allah's boundless creativity and control over the universe.
How to Read
Recite this with a sincere heart, reflecting on the immense power and artistry of Allah. The words express humility and deep gratitude for the blessings and the means Allah provides for us, whether it's a mode of transport or the stunning spectacle of a rainbow. It's a moment to pause and recognize that all these things are by His command.
Virtues & Benefits
This dua is taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for when we embark on a journey using any form of transport. It teaches us to remember Allah in moments of transition and travel, acknowledging that He is the one who makes our journeys possible and safe. When applied to seeing a rainbow, it extends that remembrance to appreciating His signs in the natural world, fostering a deeper connection to our Creator and His magnificent creation.
Source & Authentication
It was narrated from 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'When you mount a riding-beast, then say: Subhanallah. When you descend, then say: Alhamdulillah. When you travel (during the night), say: Subhanallah. And when you travel (during the day), say: Allahu Akbar. And when you stop for the night, say: Allahu Akbar. And when you wake up, say: Alhamdulillah. And when you descend, say: Subhanallah.' Then he said: 'It was narrated to us from 'Amr bin Harith from 'Uyainah bin Abi Juraij from Ibn 'Umar, from the Prophet ﷺ that he said: 'When you mount a riding-beast, say: Bismillah. When you are established on it, say: Alhamdulillah. Then say: 'Subhanalladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinina, wa inna ila Rabbina la-munqalibun.' (Glory be to Allah Who has subjected this to us, and we could not have done it ourselves. And to our Lord we will indeed return.) Then say: Alhamdulillah three times, and Allahu Akbar three times. Then say: Subhanaka, la ilaha illa ant, astaghfiruka li dhanbi, wa as'aluka min fadlika (Glory be to You, there is none worthy of worship but You. I ask for Your forgiveness for my sin and I ask You from Your bounty). And the last part is for travel.' (Sahih Muslim 1342)