Question

Is saying “Subhanallah” when expressing surprise or amazement proven in Hadith?

Answer

Yes, this is proven in numerous narrations. Imam Bukhari (rahimahullah) has entitled a chapter in his Sahih, “Saying Takbir and Tasbih when surprised”. He then cites a few narrations to support his sub-heading wherein Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) or certain Sahabah said “Subhanallah” or “Allahu Akbar” when expressing amazement or surprise.

Imam Ibn Battal (rahimahullah) states, Saying “Tasbih” or “Takbir” when surprised or to show the importance of an issue, is something good. It also trains a person to constantly remember Allah Ta’ala.

(Refer: Fathul Bari, under Hadith: 6218/6219)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar