What is Salat al-Tasbih and What are the benefits of performing it?

Hadith Sources and Scholarly Opinions about Salatul Tasbih:

The hadith encouraging Salat al-Tasbih is narrated by Abu Rafi’ (RA), who reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ instructed his uncle, Abbas (RA), to perform this prayer regularly. The hadith is found in collections such as Abu Dawood and Tirmidhi.​

While some scholars have questioned its authenticity, others have defended it:​

  • Imam Tirmidhi classified the hadith as “ghareeb” (rare) but acknowledged that scholars like Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak practiced it and recognized its virtues. Saheehus-Seerah
  • Hafiz Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani noted that while some narrations were weak, others were acceptable, and he considered the hadith to be either sahih (authentic) or hasan (sound). ​Ink of Faith+3Jamiatul Ulama KZN+3Friends of Deoband+3
  • Allama Suyuti listed up to 20 muhaddithin (hadith scholars) who accepted its authenticity, including Imam Abu Dawood and Imam Hakim

Conclusion

While there is some debate regarding the authenticity of the hadith on Salat al-Tasbih, many scholars have accepted it and practiced it. Its virtues, including forgiveness of sins, have been acknowledged by various Islamic scholars. If you choose to perform Salat al-Tasbih, it is considered a commendable act of worship.

Benefits to Perform Salat-al- Tasbih:

According to hadith, it helps wipe away all sins—past and future, small and big, hidden and open, intentional and unintentional. It’s a powerful act of seeking Allah’s forgiveness and drawing closer to Him.