in all of their writings, when they mention the Messenger they do not employ the lengthier formula, for that is the perfect form, whereas the minimum that meets the requirement is to say, “O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad.”

As for the report of Abū Masʿūd al-Badri—whose name is Zayd—and that of Abū Ḥumayd al-Sāʿidī, both are very close to this wording, except that Abū Ḥumayd’s narration adds the words “and upon his wives and descendants,” meaning the Prophet’s own wives. The Prophet ﷺ died leaving nine wives. He used to allot turns to eight of them, while the ninth, Sawdah, had given her day to ʿĀʾishah —may Allah be pleased with her—so the Prophet ﷺ would give ʿĀʾishah two days, her own and Sawdah’s. As for the rest of the wives, he apportioned to them with absolute justice, just as he had been commanded.

In conclusion, the three formulas that the author—may Allah have mercy on him—has cited and transmitted through three closely related hadiths all describe the most complete manner of invoking ṣalāt upon him. So may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him, his family, his Companions, and all who follow them with excellence until the Day of Resurrection.