Question

Is there a contradiction between these narrations?

1) Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) says, “When we would read Salah behind Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and he would say ‘sami’allahu liman hamidah‘ then those behind would say, ‘sami’allahu liman hamidah.'” (Daraqutni)

2) Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “When the Imam says ‘sami’allahu liman hamidah‘, say ‘Allahumma Rabbana lakal hamd‘”. (Sahih Bukhari, 796-3228)

Answer

Imam Daraqutni (rahimahullah) has recorded both versions of this Hadith;

1. The version which mentions that those behind should say ‘sami’allahu liman hamidah‘
2. The version which mentions that those behind should say ‘Allahumma Rabbana wa lakal hamd‘

After the second narration he says, “This version is the correct version” [هذا هو المحفوظ بهذا الإسناد]. Imam Daraqutni (rahimahullah) has effectively dismissed the authenticity of the first version.

(Sunan Daraqutni, Hadith: 1285-1286)

Note:

I have merely answered your question regarding the outward contradiction between the two Hadiths you cited. Some Fuqaha were of the opinion that a muqtadi should recite ‘sami’allahu liman hamidah‘ and ‘Allahumma Rabbana wa lakal hamd‘. They have presented other proofs as well.

Kindly refer to a reputable Mufti/Darul Ifta for further clarification.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar