What is the validity of the statement that praying upon the Prophet, may God’s prayers and peace be upon him, is superior to all other acts of worship, citing the noble verse: (Indeed, Allah and His angels send blessings upon the Prophet. O you who have believed, ask [Allah to confer] blessing upon him and greet him with [a respectful] salutation) and that Allah Almighty Himself prayed upon His Prophet, then commanded the angels and the believers to pray upon him?

Prayers upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, are among the best acts of worship and the most excellent means of drawing closer to Allah. Allah has commanded His believing servants to do so, and the Prophet has encouraged it, with great rewards associated with it, such as the forgiveness of sins and the fulfillment of needs.

The prophetic narrations have differed in specifying the best deeds. Scholars attribute this difference to the varying circumstances of individuals and times. The best deed differs according to the need of the inquirer or what suits them. For example, charity might be best for the rich, jihad for the brave, teaching people for the scholar, and addressing injustices for the ruler.

Therefore, to say that prayers upon the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, are the best acts of worship absolutely is not correct. It is a voluntary act in most cases and cannot surpass obligatory duties or the pillars of Islam. Nevertheless, it may be among the best acts of worship in certain times and situations, such as on Friday, upon hearing his name, or for someone who is distressed, as it is a cause for relief from worries and forgiveness of sins.