The Statements of the Salaf about Al-Hamd
Hafs mentioned that `Umar said to `Ali, "We know La ilaha illallah, Subhan
Allah and Allahu Akbar. What about Al-Hamdu Lillah'' `Ali said, "A statement
that Allah liked for Himself, was pleased with for Himself and He likes that it
be repeated.'' Also, Ibn `Abbas said, "Al-Hamdu Lillah is the statement of
appreciation. When the servant says Al-Hamdu Lillah, Allah says, `My servant has
praised Me.'' Ibn Abi Hatim recorded this Hadith.