Fatwa #1432813 June 2006China
Aalay Muhammad means the entire Muslim Ummah or only the descendants of Bani Hashim or the descendants of Hazarat Fatimah Radhi Allah A'nha?
Question
When we read Durood-e-Ibrahim, we recite Wa A'ala Aalay Muhammad. Here the Aalay Muhammad means the entire Muslim Ummah or only the descendants of Bani Hashim or the descendants of Hazarat Fatimah Radhi Allah A'nha? Could you please eloborate the virtues of descendants of Muhammad (SAW) and Hazarat-e-Fatimah RA. If we know anyone who is from descendants of Hazarat-e-Fatimah RA, should we to give him/her more respect as he/she is from the family of our beloved prophet SAW?
Answer
While there are many different views regarding who exactly is mean by "Aalihi" inTashahud, the two preferred views are that those family members of Nabi (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam) who are not allowed to take Zakat or the entire Ummah are meant.(al-Qawl al-Badi' Pg.192, Raddul Muhtar)
It is of utmost importance to respect the decendents of out beloved Nabi (Sallallahu alaihi wasallam). For a detailed discussion on their virtues, you would be advised to refer to the book: "The virtues of the Ahle Bayt" published by Madrasah Arabia Islamia in Azadville.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Mufti Husain Kadodia
FATWA DEPT.
CHECKED & APPROVED: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Fatwa Dept.)