Travel is an essential part of human life, whether for work, study, tourism, or other purposes. At every step, a traveler turns their heart to Allah, asking for success, protection, and safety on their journey. One of the prophetic recommended practices for travelers is a special prayer, which has been emphasized by great scholars, including Shaykh Abdul Aziz ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him). So, what is the travel prayer that Shaykh ibn Baz highlighted and urged travelers to consistently recite? Here are the details:
The Travel Prayer Mentioned by Shaykh ibn Baz
Shaykh Abdul Aziz ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him) explained that the travel prayer confirmed from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which travelers should be keen to recite, is as follows:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Subhânalladhî sakkara lanâ hâdhâ wa mâ kunna lahu muqrînîn, wa innâ ilâ Rabbina lamunqalibûn. Allahumma innâ nas’aluka fî safarinâ hâdhâ al-birra wa at-taqwâ, wa mina’l-‘amali mâ tarda. Allahumma hawwin ‘alaynâ safaranâ hâdhâ wa atwi ‘annâ bu’dahu. Allahumma anta’s-sâhibu fî’s-safar wa’l-khalîfa fî’l-ahl. Allahumma innî a’ûzü bika min wa’thâ’i’s-safar, wa kâabatil-manzar, wa sû’il-munqalabi fî’l-mâli wa’l-ahl.”
Shaykh ibn Baz (may Allah have mercy on him) emphasized the importance and virtue of this prayer, as it contains profound meanings and supplication to Allah. The prayer begins with glorifying Allah by saying “Allahu Akbar” three times, acknowledging His favor in making the vehicle of travel easy, and reminding of our ultimate return to Him. It also includes asking Allah for righteousness, piety, actions that please Him, ease in the journey, shortening long distances, His companionship during travel, protection for the family, and refuge from travel fatigue, distressing sights, and misfortune in wealth and family.
This travel prayer is a great treasure for every Muslim traveler, who should recite it with presence of heart and faith in Allah’s power and grace. It expresses reliance on Allah in all aspects of travel, seeking success, safety, and protection for family and property. Therefore, it should be our constant companion on every journey.
