(56) “Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who believe, invoke blessings upon him and greet him with a worthy salutation of peace.”

This draws attention to the perfection of Allah’s Messenger (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), the loftiness of his rank, his exalted station with Allah and among His creation, and the elevation of his renown. “Indeed, Allah” Most High “and His angels send blessings” upon him: Allah praises him among the angels and in the Highest Assembly because of His love for him, while the angels brought near praise him, pray for him, and humbly supplicate on his behalf.

“O you who believe, invoke blessings upon him and greet him with a worthy salutation of peace,” following the example of Allah and His angels, partially fulfilling his rights over you, perfecting your faith, honoring him (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), and expressing your love and esteem for him, as well as increasing your good deeds and expiating your sins. The best formula for invoking blessings upon him is the one he taught his Companions:

“O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You sent blessings upon the family of Abraham. Surely You are Praiseworthy, Glorious. And bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You blessed the family of Abraham. Surely You are Praiseworthy, Glorious.”

This command to invoke blessings and peace upon him is prescribed at all times, and many scholars have held it obligatory during prayer.