((بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى سُنَّةِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ)).
(Bismil-lahi waAAala sunnati rasoolil-lah.)
In the name of Allah and upon the sunnah of the Messenger of Allah.
Source & authenticity
Source: Hisn al-Muslim · Reference: Hisn al-Muslim 58
Translation: Hisn al-Muslim (Fortress of the Muslim), Sa'id al-Qahtani — see site-wide attribution
IslamicInfo presents the source information available in its current verified database and does not issue religious rulings.
Context & meaning
Two phrases joined by and, and neither is a request. The first invokes the name of Allah. The second names the pattern the act is being performed on — the sunnah of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Nothing is asked for the dead, nothing for those burying, and no description of either is given. The words state under what authority the burial proceeds.
When & how to recite
Abu Dawud records this from Abdullah ibn Umar, said while placing the dead in the grave.
Reflection
It is spoken at a graveside and contains no petition at all. Both halves point toward a source rather than toward a need.
About these notesThe notes above explain the wording of the supplication as it is translated on this page. They add no commentary, history or ruling beyond it.
Common questions
What does this supplication actually say?
In English it reads: “In the name of Allah and upon the sunnah of the Messenger of Allah.” Two phrases joined by and, and neither is a request.
Can I read it without Arabic script?
Written in Latin letters it is: “Bismil-lahi waAAala sunnati rasoolil-lah.”
When should you say it?
Abu Dawud records this from Abdullah ibn Umar, said while placing the dead in the grave. It is spoken at a graveside and contains no petition at all.
What is the source for this?
Referenced as Sunan Abi Dawud 3214.