with the general supplication, because it is more comprehensive, whereas the specific supplication pertains specifically to the deceased.

The Sunnah has been reported with both the general and the specific supplication. The scholars have said that both should be combined, due to the general import of his saying, peace and blessings be upon him: “Be sincere in your supplication for him.” (1) Thus, he must be singled out with a supplication, even though the general supplication includes him.

Forgiveness is the erasure and concealing of the effects of sins. A person is in need of having his sins concealed, both in life and after death.

“And have mercy on him,” meaning, by granting what is sought. This is why forgiveness and mercy are so often mentioned together: through forgiveness one is saved from what is feared, and through mercy one attains what is sought.

“And grant him well-being, pardon him, honor his reception, broaden his entrance, and wash him with water, snow, and hail, ...”

His statement, “And grant him well-being and pardon him,” means: grant him safety from whatever harm may befall him, such as the punishment of the grave, for example.

“And pardon him,” meaning: overlook whatever obligations he fell short of during his lifetime.

Pardoning is forbearance and overlooking disobedience to commands. Well-being is safety from the sinful consequences of prohibited matters. Forgiveness is the erasure of the effects of sins resulting from disobedience.

His statement, “And honor his reception”: nuzulahu means the hospitality or welcome offered to a guest; it is also pronounced nuzlahu. In reality, the person who has departed is arriving at a new abode, so you ask Allah to honor his reception—that is, his hospitality.

His statement, “And broaden his entrance”: it is said madkhal and mudkhal, with the vowel a