The correct view (1) is that there is nothing wrong with supplicating for something connected to worldly matters. This is because supplication is itself an act of worship, even when it concerns worldly matters; and a person has no refuge but Allah. If the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The nearest a servant is to his Lord is when he is prostrating” (2), and said, “As for prostration, increase your supplication therein, for it is more deserving that you will be answered” (3), and said in the hadith of Ibn Mas‘ud, after mentioning the tashahhud, “Then let him choose whatever supplication he wishes” (4)—and a person finds himself turning wholeheartedly to Allah only while he is praying—then how can we say: Do not ask Allah, while you are praying, for something you need in your worldly affairs? This is very far-fetched.

It is also reported from the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him: “Let each of you ask his Lord for all his needs, even for the strap of his sandal” (5). The strap of a sandal pertains to worldly matters. Therefore, without doubt, the correct view is that after the tashahhud one may supplicate for whatever good one wishes, whether of this world or the Hereafter. The most comprehensive supplication in this regard is: “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” This encompasses the good of this world and the Hereafter.

Question: Is it permissible to supplicate for a particular person, such as saying, “O Allah, reward so-and-so on my behalf with goodness,” or, “O Allah, forgive so-and-so?”