Is it permissible for us to recite the opening supplication of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in the night prayer: "I have turned my face to Him who originated the heavens and the earth... and I am the first of the Muslims," even though the Prophet (peace be upon him) is the first of the Muslims in terms of his law?

Muslim narrated that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, used to say in the opening of the prayer: "I have turned my face sincerely to Him Who originated the heavens and the earth, and I am not of the polytheists. Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds. No partner has He. And of this I have been commanded, and I am of the Muslims." In another narration, it states: "And I am the first of the Muslims." This 'firstness' is relative, as every prophet is the first of the Muslims from his people. Scholars have differed regarding a worshiper other than the Prophet saying, "And I am the first of the Muslims." Some believe that one should say, "And I am of the Muslims," out of humility. Others believe it is permissible to say it, considering it a recitation of the Qur'an or meaning hastening in compliance.