O people! Fear Allah and be moderate in seeking your sustenance (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Man is born greedy and is always on the look out for means to earn more and in doing so, he usually loses sight o leaving behind his amassed wealth uspentf Halal and Haram to have his bags and coffers full. There are kings who have so many automobiles that even if one is used every day, the last one will take twenty years to have its turn. The famous Arab polythetist Qaroon is said to be the richest man in the deserts of Arabia. It is siad that only the keys to his coffers were loaded on seventy camels whenhe moved. But what to vail - he was engulfed by the sand along with his caraven, leaqving behind his amassed wealth unspent.

That is why Allah cautions in Qur'an to be moderate in one's wants and should not run after money which may not be in his fate or destiny. We share today a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on the same caution and will eleborate it with references from Qur'an.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Ibn Majah /  Book 12 The Chapters on Business Transactions / كتاب التجارات) / Chapter 2: Moderation In Seeking To Earn A Living / باب الاِقْتِصَادِ فِي طَلَبِ الْمَعِيشَةِ ‏ / as Hadith number # 2144 under:

It was narrated from Jabir bin 'Abdullah that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

"O people, fear Allah and be moderate in seeking a living, for no soul will die until it has received all its provision, even if it is slow in coming. So fear Allah and be moderate in seeking provision; take that which is permissible and leave that which is forbidden. "

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ الْمُصَفَّى الْحِمْصِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا الْوَلِيدُ بْنُ مُسْلِمٍ، عَنِ ابْنِ جُرَيْجٍ، عَنْ أَبِي الزُّبَيْرِ، عَنْ جَابِرِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ـ صلى الله عليه وسلم ـ ‏ "‏ أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَأَجْمِلُوا فِي الطَّلَبِ فَإِنَّ نَفْسًا لَنْ تَمُوتَ حَتَّى تَسْتَوْفِيَ رِزْقَهَا وَإِنْ أَبْطَأَ عَنْهَا فَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَأَجْمِلُوا فِي الطَّلَبِ خُذُوا مَا حَلَّ وَدَعُوا مَا حَرُمَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

Context and Relevance

This hadith, situated in the chapter titled "Moderation in Seeking to Earn a Living" (باب الاِقْتِصَادِ فِي طَلَبِ الْمَعِيشَةِ) in Sunan Ibn Majah, focuses on ethical and balanced approaches to earning. This is a significant hadith that addresses the balance between seeking sustenance and maintaining piety. t encourages Muslims to seek sustenance through permissible means, trust in Allah's provision, and maintain moderation in their endeavors.

Let us expand this hadith for better understaning:

Key Themes and Teachings

• Moderation in Seeking Livelihood: The hadith emphasizes the importance of moderation in the pursuit of sustenance. While striving to earn a living is essential, it should not lead to excessive attachment or neglect of spiritual duties.
• Trust in Divine Provision: It reassures believers that every soul will receive its destined provision. Even if sustenance seems delayed, it will come at its appointed time. This teaches reliance on Allah's plan and timing.
• Adherence to Halal and Avoidance of Haram: The hadith advises taking only what is halal (permissible) and avoiding what is haram (forbidden) in the pursuit of livelihood. This underscores the importance of ethical means of earning and maintaining integrity in business transactions.

Practical Implications

• Balanced Approach: Muslims are encouraged to balance their worldly pursuits with spiritual obligations, ensuring that the quest for sustenance does not overshadow religious duties.
• Ethical Earnings: The hadith serves as a reminder to engage in business and work that align with Islamic principles, avoiding dishonest or unlawful practices.
• Patience and Trust: Believers are taught to exercise patience and trust in Allah's timing, especially during periods of financial uncertainty or delay.

Relevance to verses of Qur'an

This hadith complements many Qur’anic principles that emphasize taqwa (God-consciousness), halal earnings, and trust in Allah’s provision.

1. Provision (Rizq) is Guaranteed by Allah

• “There is no creature on earth but that upon Allah is its provision...” — Surah Hud (11:6)
• The Qur’an affirms that Allah is the sole provider. The hadith mirrors this belief by stating, "No soul will die until it has received all its provision...".
• This fosters tawakkul (reliance upon Allah) and discourages panic-driven or unethical pursuit of wealth.

2. Permissible (Halal) Earnings

• “O mankind, eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful and good, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan...” — Surah Al-Baqarah (2:168)
• The Qur’an commands believers to consume lawful (halal) and pure (tayyib) provisions.
• The hadith reinforces this: “Take that which is permissible and leave that which is forbidden.”
• This encourages Muslims to avoid riba (usury), fraud, bribery, theft, and unethical business practices.

3. Moderation in Earning and Living

• “Do not make your hand [as] chained to your neck or extend it completely and [thereby] become blamed and insolvent.” — Surah Al-Isra (17:29)
• Moderation is a recurring value in the Qur’an. The hadith says, “Be moderate in seeking a living.”
• Islam encourages hard work, but within a balanced, ethical framework—without greed, excessiveness, or neglecting worship.

4. Taqwa (Fear of Allah) as a Key to Provision

• “And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect.” — Surah At-Talaq (65:2-3)
• The hadith begins and ends with the instruction to “Fear Allah.”
• According to the Qur’an, taqwa leads to unexpected provision and divine ease.

Conclusion

This hadith is a powerful reminder that:

• Provision is decreed by Allah, so believers should not compromise on ethics.
• 
  
• One must earn through halal means and avoid haram shortcuts.
• 
  
• Taqwa and moderation lead to both spiritual peace and worldly success.

The Qur’an and the hadith together teach that trusting Allah, working ethically, and living moderately lead to true prosperity in this world and the next.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

Please refer to our reference page: Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Self-Reliance with Dignity and Value of Honest Labour to read more related Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing. one may also consult local Muslim Imamam of the masjid for more calrification.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Is there a correlation between Qur'an Surah 7. Al A'raf verse 172 and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on Fitrah

Every saying of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has a correlation with verses of Qur'an and is thus a prophetly explanation of what is contained in Qur'an. Sometime back we shared a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on Fitrah.  "Fitra or fitrah (Arabic: فطرة) is an Arabic word that means 'original disposition', 'natural constitution' or 'innate nature'. In Islam, fitrah is the innate human nature that recognizes the oneness of God (tawhid). It may entail either the state of purity and innocence in which Muslims believe all humans to be born, or the ability to choose or reject God's guidance." 

The Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ narrated by Abu Huraira states:

"No child is born but upon Fitrah. It is his parents who make him a Jew or a Christian or a Polytheist." A person said: Allah's Messenger, what is your opinion if they were to die before that (before reaching the age of adolescence when they can distinguish between right and wrong)? He said: It is Allah alone Who knows what they would be doing. 

we have already written a detailed post on this Hadith: Every child is born in a state of Fitrah (Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), which may be referred to for better understanding of the Hadith.

This Hadith of Fitrah is deeply to Qur’an 7:172 in Islamic theology. Both refer to the idea of an inherent, primordial recognition of God placed within human beings. Let's explore their meanings and how they correlate.

The Hadith of Fitrah

Fitrah in this according to many Islamic scholars, this Fitrah includes a basic recognition of Tawhid (the Oneness of God). It implies that belief in Allah is embedded in the human soul from birth.

Qur’an 7:172

Now let us find a correlation between the above quoted Hadith with the 172nd verse of Surah 7. Al A'raf given herein under:

وَإِذْ أَخَذَ رَبُّكَ مِنۢ بَنِىٓ ءَادَمَ مِن ظُهُورِهِمْ ذُرِّيَّتَهُمْ وَأَشْهَدَهُمْ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِهِمْ أَلَسْتُ بِرَبِّكُمْ ۖ قَالُوا۟ بَلَىٰ ۛ شَهِدْنَآ ۛ أَن تَقُولُوا۟ يَوْمَ ٱلْقِيَـٰمَةِ إِنَّا كُنَّا عَنْ هَـٰذَا غَـٰفِلِينَ 

And ˹remember˺ when your Lord brought forth from the loins of the children of Adam their descendants and had them testify regarding themselves. ˹Allah asked,˺ “Am I not your Lord?” They replied, “Yes, You are! We testify.” ˹He cautioned,˺ “Now you have no right to say on Judgment Day, ‘We were not aware of this.’

Eminent Muslim scholar Imam Ahmad bin Humbal in his book explains:

God gathered all human beings, divided them into different groups, granted them human form and the faculty of speech, made them enter into a covenant, and then making them witnesses against themselves He asked them: 'Am I not your Lord?' They replied: 'Assuredly you are Our Lord.' Then God told them: 'I call upon the sky and the earth and your own progenitor, Adam, to be witness against you lest you should say on the Day of Judgement that you were ignorant of this. Know well that no one other than Me deserves to he worshipped and no one other than Me is your Lord. So do not ascribe any partner to Me. I shall send to you My Messengers who will remind you of this covenant which you made with Me. I shall send down to you My Books.' In reply all said: 'We witness that You are Our Lord and our Deity. We have no lord or deity other than You.' (Ahmad b. Hanbal, Musnad, vol. 5, p. 135 - Ed.)

This verse thus describes that:

• The "Primordial Covenant" (Mithaq) that Allah took from all human souls before their earthly existence.
• All souls affirmed God’s Lordship with the response "Bala" (Yes!).
• This testimony serves as a foundational awareness that humans are accountable to recognize and worship Allah.

Now let us try to find a correlation between the Hadith and the Verse of Surah Al A'raf:

Innate Knowledge of God

• Hadith of Fitrah: Every child is born with a natural inclination toward belief in One God.
• Qur'an 7:172: Every soul testified to God's Lordship before birth.

Accountability

• Hadith of Fitrah: People deviate due to external influences (e.g., parents, society).
• Qur'an 7:172: Humans cannot claim ignorance of God’s existence on Judgment Day.

Divine Imprint

• Hadith of Fitrah: God instills Fitrah as part of human nature.
• Qur'an 7:172: God extracted a testimony from human souls, forming a spiritual imprint.

Original Purity

• Hadith of Fitrah: Fitrah is a symbol of original spiritual purity.
• Qur'an 7:172: The Primordial Covenant reflects pre-earthly spiritual awareness.

Conclusion

The Hadith of Fitrah and Qur’an 7:172 complement each other by reinforcing the idea that human beings have an inborn awareness of God. While the Hadith highlights the role of nurture and external influences, the Qur'anic verse focuses on a pre-temporal, spiritual event that binds all souls to divine accountability.

Together, the Hadith and the Qur'anic verse underpin a major Islamic theological point: belief in God is natural and intrinsic, not acquired, and deviation from it is due to external, worldly influences.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Photo: Pixabay| Qur'an and Hadith References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | Source of Hadith

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Teaching of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on Environmental Stewardship

Purity and cleanliness is central to Isalmic teachings. From inner or spiritual purity that refers to the purification of the heart from negative traits like envy, pride, and hypocrisy to outer purity that  Involves cleanliness of the body, clothing, and environment, Islamic teachings are emphasised right from the childhood. While ablution five times a day ensures outer purity and going to majids for prayers in clean clothes, the beleivers are also required to keep their envirnment clean by ensuring disposal of litter and efforts be made to ensure clean and healthy environemnt.

One of the means to ensure clean and healthy environemnt is to plant trees and flowery palnts so that carbon dioxide is absorbed by the trees to keep everyone from environmental pollution. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has also emphasised on keeping the environment clean by planting trees for every tree becomes a source of charity for the planter for it is helping others to live in clean environment, 

To keep the enviroment clean, we share a hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as narrated by Narrated Anas bin Malik, mentioned in Sahi Bokhari as hadith 2320:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "There is none amongst the Muslims who plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, but is regarded as a charitable gift for him."

This hadith underscores the idea that acts of cultivation, such as planting trees or sowing seeds, are not only beneficial for the individual but also serve as ongoing charity (Sadaqah Jariyah). The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized that even if a bird, person, or animal benefits from the produce, the one who planted it receives continuous reward.

This teaching aligns with the Qur'anic perspective on the blessings of agriculture. In Surah Al-Waqi'ah (56:63-65), Allah questions: "Then tell Me about the seed that you sow in the ground, is it you that make it to grow, or are We the grower? Were it Our Will, We could crumble it to dry pieces..."

This verse reflects on Allah's role in the growth of crops, highlighting the importance of gratitude and recognizing divine blessings.

Furthermore, the Qur'an encourages the cultivation of the earth as a means of sustenance and a way to earn Allah's pleasure. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:261), Allah likens the example of those who spend in His cause to a grain of corn that sprouts seven ears, each bearing a hundred grains.

In essence, both the hadith and the Qur'an promote the act of planting and cultivation as virtuous deeds that yield continuous rewards, benefiting both the individual and the broader community. In fact this Hadith points twoards the individual as well as collective responsibility of Muslims to help keep the environment clean so that everyone lives in a pollution free environemnt. This would aslo ensure good health of everyone, free from diseases which are generally due to polluted air and unhealthy environemnt.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For Hadiths on the subject, please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Sadaqah صدقة  / Voluntary Charity

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo: Pixabay | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing. one may also consult local Muslim Imamam of the masjid for more calrification.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Should we use Fear of Allah approach to teach Islam to our children

Teaching Islam to our children is usually based on Fear of Allah approach, the same way mothers instill fear of fathers in her children. Should this be "the only" approach to attract children to Islam or should we induce of Allah into the hearts of our children so that they are naturally attracted to their Creator and look up to Him for loving guidance.

Normally word Taqwa is used in the negative term to attain closeness to Allah based on His fear. But shouldn't we explain Taqwa essentially as a meanto inculcate “awareness of Allah” or “piety,” rather than translating it as “fear of God,” though not with the usual meaning of “fear.”  The mere fear of Allah translates into Allah getting angry and feel like every breath that we take as a crime? Many immams use Friday prayers and the word of God as a platform to project their own fear and anxiety. Their words come from such an unwholesome place that it feels grating to the ears. 

In fact, we should use an approach which more related to love of Allah and less of inculcating fear of Allah. This approach will induce mercy of Allah into our hearts and which will be more refreshing rather than instilling fear which makes one feel like a criminal or a wrongdoer. 

When we love Allah, Worship becomes joy, not a burden and Obedience becomes natural, not forced. In fact, love of Allah induces hope in Allah’s forgiveness, mercy, and Paradise, especially after repentance. “But those who believe are stronger in love for Allah.” (Al-Baqarah 2:165)

Thus, a Muslim’s heart should not be driven by fear alone, but love as well, for love helps us keep us balanced, sincere, and spiritually strong.

Please listen to the video below in which eminent Muslim scholar Nauman Ali Khan dwells on the subject for the guidance of all those trying to understand between love that induces hope rather than fear which induces depression for feeling like being punished for every act of ours.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo | Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Who speaks better than he who calls people to Allah

Speaking good and encouraging others to speak good is best of the acts of a man. And what more could be better than calling others to Allah, that is to Islam, the final Divine religion. In the wake of stiff resistance, Islam continues to thrive and more and more people come under the fold of Islam every day. This has been a long and ardouous journey that commenced with the Da'wah / invitation to Islam by the last of the prophets, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. He faced stiff resistance at the hands of the people of Makkah, tortured and humiliated, yet his resilence and steadfastness slowly and gradually led the once stubborn non Muslims of Makkah to Islam.

And ever since, Islam is expanding despite the many hurdles placed in its way of propagation. In fact, it is due to those Muslims who have dedicated their lives to convey the message of Islam to non Muslims and convince them of the unversality of Islam. And today, according to many indepepndent analysts, Islam is the fastest growing religion and is expected to be dominating religion by 2050.

We share today the 33rd verse of Surah 41 Al Fussilat (Clearly spelt out) in which Allah acknowledges the service of the those who call others to Islam:

وَمَنۡ اَحۡسَنُ قَوۡلًا مِّمَّنۡ دَعَاۤ اِلَى اللّٰهِ وَعَمِلَ صَالِحًا وَّقَالَ اِنَّنِىۡ مِنَ الۡمُسۡلِمِيۡنَ‏ 

(41:33) Who speaks better than he who calls people to Allah, does what is right, and says, 'I am one of those who have surrendered themselves to Allah?

An advocate of the Divine faith must put his addressees face to face with reality. He has to confront people's deviation, ignorance, inflated appreciation of their own deeds, as also their instinctive abhorrence of being told that they are wrong. He is opposed by people's determination to serve their own interests and maintain positions that might be threatened by the principle of equality of all people, which is basic to Divine faith. To face all this as part of the task of advocating Divine faith is indeed very hard. Yet it is something truly great: "Who speaks better than he who calls people to God, does what is right, and says, 'I am one of those who have surrendered themselves to God?" (Verse 33) Taking all this into account, a word of advocacy, calling on people to believe in God's oneness, is the best word that may be said on earth. It is at the forefront of good words that are raised to God in heaven, provided it is endorsed by good action and confirmed with self surrender to Him. Thus, such advocacy becomes pure and sincere, free of self interest. The advocate's aim is merely to discharge his duty by presenting the Divine message. Once he has discharged his duty, he should not care whether his words are rejected or whether people are rude or boastful in their denials. He is merely presenting what is good, which puts him in the higher position.

Explanation:

This verse highlights the noblest form of speech and action in the sight of Allah:

• "Who is better in speech..."
• This is a rhetorical question, implying that no one has better speech than this person.
• It sets a high standard for what truly good and impactful communication looks like.
• "...than one who calls to Allah"
• This refers to someone who invites others to know, worship, and obey Allah.
• It includes teaching, reminding, and encouraging others towards faith and truth.
• "...and does righteous deeds"
• Calling others to Allah is not enough on its own—personal conduct matters.
• The person practices what they preach: sincerity, honesty, humility, etc.
• "...and says, 'Indeed, I am of the Muslims.'"
• This is a declaration of identity and commitment.
• It shows the person is proud and clear about being a submitter to God (a Muslim), without hypocrisy or fear.

Takeaway:

This verse beautifully combines da'wah (inviting to Islam), personal piety, and clear identity as the traits of the most honorable speaker. It's a call to live with integrity, and share goodness with others while being openly committed to faith.

Let all Muslims do their best to call upon non Muslims and introduce them the true Islam, not the Islam of terrorism as being portrayed by the world. This is our moral and religious obligation to continnue to spread the word of Allah as was done by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and since him all those good Muslims who took upon them the great responsibility of da'wah / invitation to Islam as every Muslim has been ordained to do so.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

For more selected verse on Da'wah, please refer to our reference page: Da'wah - The Invitation to Non-Muslims to Islam

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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An oft misinterpreted Prophetic Hadith by Muslims living in Non-Muslim countries

The Divine commandmanet about what is Halal (permissible) and Haram (Prohibited) is very clearly given in Qur'an, specially when it comes to the eatable and flesh of the slaughtered animals. In that Quran explicitly prohibits the consumption of animals slaughtered in the name of any other than God (Allah) [2:173, 5:3]. This prohibition extends to animals that die of themselves (carrion), blood, and the flesh of swine [2:173, 5:3]. Additionally, animals killed by strangulation, beating, a fall, or by being gored to death are also forbidden [5:3]. The Quran also mentions that if one is forced to eat these due to necessity, without being malicious or deliberate, they do not incur sin [2:173, 5:3]

Yet despite these c;ear instructions, many a Muslims living in non Muslim countries where Halal food / meat is not available, oft misinterpret a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and consume non-Halal food by saying "Bismaillah / in the name of Allah."

We share this misinterpreted Hadith as mentioned in Sahi Bukhari Book 34, Chapter 5 as Hadith number 2057, given herein under and would explain how this Hadith is misued to consume prohibited meat or food:

This hadith, narrated by ʿĀ’ishah (RA) addresses the issue of doubt regarding whether proper Islamic slaughtering procedures were followed, especially when dealing with new Muslims whose practices might not yet be fully refined.

Narrated by `Aisha:

Some people said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! Meat is brought to us by some people and we are not sure whether the name of Allah has been mentioned on it or not (at the time of slaughtering the animals)." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said (to them), "Mention the name of Allah and eat it."

حَدَّثَنِي أَحْمَدُ بْنُ الْمِقْدَامِ الْعِجْلِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ الطُّفَاوِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا هِشَامُ بْنُ عُرْوَةَ،، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ ـ رضى الله عنها ـ أَنَّ قَوْمًا، قَالُوا يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ، إِنَّ قَوْمًا يَأْتُونَنَا بِاللَّحْمِ لاَ نَدْرِي أَذَكَرُوا اسْمَ اللَّهِ عَلَيْهِ أَمْ لاَ فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ سَمُّوا اللَّهَ عَلَيْهِ وَكُلُوهُ ‏"‏‏.‏

Now here is a catch point that generally Muslims ignore. As can be seen from the text of the Hadith, it is very clear that the food brought was by the Muslims, specially the newly reverted, and it was not very sure that they took name of Allah before slaughtering the animals and the questioners were unsure of the validity of their slaughtering. Whereas the food served in the non Muslim countries is for sure not Halal, unlesse labeled Halal, and by mere taking name of Allah does not make it Halal and consumable by the Muslims.

Let us now explain the Hadith for better understanding and help us avoid any chances of its misinterpretation:

Legal and Ethical Analysis

• Assumption of Validity in Islamic Slaughter This hadith forms the basis of a legal principle in Islamic jurisprudence:
• “Al-aslu fil ashya’ al-ibahah” “The default in matters is permissibility unless there is evidence to the contrary.”
• So, if Muslims (even new ones) slaughter the meat, and there is no clear evidence that they violated Islamic rules (like not mentioning Allah’s name intentionally), the meat is considered lawful.
• Reinforcement of Personal Responsibility 
• The Prophet ﷺ said: “Mention the name of Allah upon it and eat.”
• This doesn’t mean to repeat the slaughtering, but to say Bismillah when eating as an act of barakah and remembrance.
• This teaches that:
• You are responsible for your own remembrance.
• Don’t delve into unnecessary suspicion unless there is clear proof of wrongdoing.
• Dealing with Doubtful Situations
• The hadith implies:
• Avoiding waswas (baseless doubt): The people were unsure, not certain of wrongdoing.
• Islam teaches practicality and charity in assumptions, especially with other Muslims.
• Qur'an Connection: “O you who believe, avoid much suspicion. Indeed, some suspicion is sin…” — Surah Al-Hujurat (49:12)
• Respecting New Muslims and Gradual Teaching These new Muslims were likely unfamiliar with all rulings. The Prophet ﷺ didn’t command re-slaughtering or deep investigation, showing:
• Tolerant leadership
• Gradual teaching (tadarruj)
• Respecting people’s growth in Islam

Scholarly Application:

• This hadith is used by major madhhabs (e.g., Shafi’i, Maliki, Hanbali) to assume halal slaughter from Muslims unless there is proof to the contrary.
• Also cited in discussions on eating meat from People of the Book (see Qur’an 5:5), though that involves a different layer of interpretation.

Summary: Key Legal Principles from the Hadith - Principle Explanation

• Assumption of Halal: If slaughtered by Muslims, assume it's halal unless proven otherwise.
• Avoid Suspicion: Don’t investigate baseless doubts — act on what is apparent.
• Say Bismillah When Eating: Your responsibility is to remember Allah when you eat.
• Gentle Approach to New Muslims: Allow time and patience in teaching new believers.

In view of the above explanation, it is clear without any doubt that permission to eat meat / food by Muslims is permissiable and if in doubt whether it was slaughtered by taking name of Allah, one should say Bismallah and consume the meat / food. But this condition in no way allows Muslims to take name of Allah and eat whatever is being served by Non Muslims / non Muslims eatiers. However, if the eatery served Halal meat is labelled so, then one may consume it.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing. one may also consult local Muslim Imamam of the masjid for more calrification.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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An awe inspiring revert experience of female American pilot after witnessing a miracle mid air

Sailors and pilots have tons of experience of the sea and air travel which are never ending. But never ever I knew of a "revert experience" of a female pilot which was over awed by her experience of Divine miracle twice during her flight, which made her ponder over knowing much more beyond the sky and horizon. 

I am sharing today a revert experience ofan American female pilot who was isnspired by the miracle of the Divine power when Allah is remebered in the very earnest when one is encountered with turbulances mid air. This revert experience shows us the power of Allah when He is prayed with one's conviction and faith in Allah.

Please watch the full video of her revert experience below and see how reciting Qur'an at time of trouble Allah helps and even melts hearts onf the non Muslims:

May Allah (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us have unflinching faith and trust in Divine Wisdom and decisions and should never lament for we do not know that something better has been planned for us by our most caring Lord. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Disclaimer: The data / video for this post has been collected from the references given below or YouTube. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

To read personal accounts of many who have reverted to Islam, please visit our page: Embracing Islam: Revert Experiences.

You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo: Self Photography | 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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10 most commonly mistakes committed while performing Wudu / Ablution

As Salat / Prayer is mandatory and obligatory for every adult and healthy Muslim man and woman five times a day. It is the time when one stands in front of one's Creator seeking His mercy and forgiveness. This being such an ipirtant daily ritueal requires a worshipper to be wearing clean / unsoiled clothes (specially the stains of urine or any dirt one may pick on his clothes). Having ensured cleanliness of one's clothes, one has to perform Wudu / ablutuon by washing one's face, arms up to the albow, passing over wet hands over one's head and washing feet including ankles. 

This procedure of Wudu / ablution is mentioned in Qur'an as under:

“O you who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles…” — Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:6)

The ablution this allows removal of any traces of dirt from one's visible body parts so that when one stands in front of his Creaotor, he is not only wearing clean clothes but as also washed his visible body parts as directed by Allah. Thus, Wudu is a pre-requisite for prayer, and obedience to Allah is central to Islamic life.

Wudu isn’t just physical — it is a spiritual act of cleansing. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“When a Muslim or a believer washes his face (in wudu), every sin which he committed with his eyes will be washed away… when he washes his hands, every sin they committed is washed away… until he comes out pure from sins.” — Sahih Muslim 244

This shows that wudu is a form of minor expiation for sins tied to our body parts. It also:

• Removes sweat, dust, and impurities
• Encourages hygiene multiple times daily
• Prevents disease and promotes overall health - not only for self, but also being in a state of purity when one offers prayer in the masjid standing close in t=ranks with others.

However, it is generally seen that people hurry up performing Wudu which may leave parts of their washable body parts, which may invalidate one's salat / prayer. Herein under, we share an informative video which lists down 10 commonly commited mistakes while performing wudu and one must pay attention to these mistakes so that their whole process of offering prayer is not invaidated:

Let us make sure that we take time in performing wudu for we have to present ourselves before our Lord and we would not like that our presence is nullified due to our hurried performance of wudeu.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door.  

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may refer to our reference page: As Salat / Prayers for any Q&A you may have with regard to prayers.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Leave what is doubtful and follow which is unambiguous (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

It is generally seen that an educated does not follow what is doubtful while an uneducated or a man with little knowledge discusses the doubtful and leaves what is unambigous. This reality reminds us that true education leads to caution, clarity, and humility, while ignorance or shallow learning often leads to confusion, pride, and misplaced focus. A truly educated Muslim knows when to speak, when to refrain, and always prefers certainty over doubt.

In Islam, seemingly doubtful issues (Arabic: مسائل مشتبهة or mutashābihāt) are matters that fall between clearly permissible (halal) and clearly forbidden (haram). These are not about unclear theology but practical, daily life issues where the ruling is not definitively known to the average person, and scholars may differ.

These issues are best explained in light of the well-known hadith, mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī, Book 2, Chapter 39 as hadith number 52 given herein under:

Hadith narrated by An-Nu'man bin Bashir:

I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, 'Both legal and illegal things are evident but in between them there are doubtful (suspicious) things and most of the people have no knowledge about them. So whoever saves himself from these suspicious things saves his religion and his honor. And whoever indulges in these suspicious things is like a shepherd who grazes (his animals) near the Hima (private pasture) of someone else and at any moment he is liable to get in it. (O people!) Beware! Every king has a Hima and the Hima of Allah on the earth is His illegal (forbidden) things. Beware! There is a piece of flesh in the body if it becomes good (reformed) the whole body becomes good but if it gets spoilt the whole body gets spoilt and that is the heart.

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو نُعَيْمٍ، حَدَّثَنَا زَكَرِيَّاءُ، عَنْ عَامِرٍ، قَالَ سَمِعْتُ النُّعْمَانَ بْنَ بَشِيرٍ، يَقُولُ سَمِعْتُ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَقُولُ ‏ "‏ الْحَلاَلُ بَيِّنٌ وَالْحَرَامُ بَيِّنٌ، وَبَيْنَهُمَا مُشَبَّهَاتٌ لاَ يَعْلَمُهَا كَثِيرٌ مِنَ النَّاسِ، فَمَنِ اتَّقَى الْمُشَبَّهَاتِ اسْتَبْرَأَ لِدِيِنِهِ وَعِرْضِهِ، وَمَنْ وَقَعَ فِي الشُّبُهَاتِ كَرَاعٍ يَرْعَى حَوْلَ الْحِمَى، يُوشِكُ أَنْ يُوَاقِعَهُ‏.‏ أَلاَ وَإِنَّ لِكُلِّ مَلِكٍ حِمًى، أَلاَ إِنَّ حِمَى اللَّهِ فِي أَرْضِهِ مَحَارِمُهُ، أَلاَ وَإِنَّ فِي الْجَسَدِ مُضْغَةً إِذَا صَلَحَتْ صَلَحَ الْجَسَدُ كُلُّهُ، وَإِذَا فَسَدَتْ فَسَدَ الْجَسَدُ كُلُّهُ‏.‏ أَلاَ وَهِيَ الْقَلْبُ ‏"‏‏.‏

This hadith narrated by An-Nu’man ibn Bashir, also fund in Sahih Muslim (1599)—is one of the foundational hadiths of Islamic ethics and spirituality. It gives a powerful framework for navigating right and wrong, especially in the "gray areas" of life, and it emphasizes the central role of the heart (qalb) in one's faith and actions.

Explanation of the Hadith:

• "The halal is clear and the haram is clear..." Islam provides clear guidelines on many matters:
• Prayer, fasting, stealing, zina, riba — these are well-defined.
• But not all matters are black and white.
• Example: Eating pork is clearly haram; praying five times is clearly fard (obligatory).
• "...between them are doubtful matters which many people do not know." These are ambiguous or uncertain issues, due to:
• Lack of clear evidence
• New situations (e.g. modern finance, medical ethics)
• Differences in scholarly interpretation
• Most people do not know the proper ruling—only those with sound knowledge and understanding do.
• "Whoever avoids doubtful matters protects his religion and his honor." By avoiding the gray area, a Muslim:
• Keeps their religious obedience safe from falling into sin
• Protects their personal reputation (people don’t accuse them of wrongdoing)
• Example: Avoiding food if unsure whether it contains impermissible ingredients.
• "Whoever indulges in doubtful matters is like a shepherd grazing near the king’s sanctuary..." This metaphor compares indulging in doubtful matters to:
• A shepherd grazing close to private land (ḥimā), likely to wander into forbidden ground.
• Eventually, the person may fall into haram unintentionally or through carelessness.
• Moral: Staying close to danger increases the chance of sin.
• "Indeed, every king has a sanctuary..." Allah’s sanctuary on Earth is:
• What He has clearly forbidden (the haram).
• Just like a king defends his private lands, Allah commands us to stay away from His prohibitions.
• "There is a piece of flesh... it is the heart." This part links outer behavior with inner spiritual health. A pure heart leads to:

• Moral clarity
• Sound judgment
• Sincee action
• A corrupt heart will be attracted to ambiguity and sin, and will make excuses for misbehavior.

Deep Insights: This hadith ties together:

• Fiqh (legal clarity) — halal, haram, doubtful
• Tazkiyah (spiritual purification) — the heart
• Akhlaq (ethics) — avoiding suspicion and protecting honor
• It teaches that true religiosity isn’t just technical knowledge, but moral and spiritual awareness.

Key Characteristics of Doubtful (Shubhah) Matters:

• Not clearly halal or haram.
• Scholarly disagreement or lack of consensus.
• Involve complex contexts, such as intent, culture, or modern innovation.
• They may vary based on time, place, and person.

Examples of Doubtful Issues in Islam:

• Food and Ingredients
• Gelatin: Is it halal if derived from non-zabiha animals?
• Cheese with animal rennet: Halal or not?
• Food prepared by non-Muslims: Are their slaughter practices valid?
• Some scholars permit with conditions, others caution.
• Income Sources
• Working at a bank: Is it halal if not directly involved in riba?
• Investing in stock markets: Are mixed-portfolio funds (halal/haram) permissible?
• Cryptocurrency: Is it a legitimate currency or speculative gambling (maysir)?
• Doubt arises due to evolving business models and unclear definitions.
• Clothing and Modesty
• Tight clothing: Not revealing skin, but does it outline the body?
• Makeup in public: Is it beautification or just grooming?
• Cultural dress codes: Modest in one culture but provocative in another?
• Judgment often depends on local norms and intentions.
• Music and Entertainment
• Nasheeds with instruments: Are duff and digital drums allowed?
• Streaming services: Using platforms that host both halal and haram content.
• Acting in plays or Islamic films: Is it permissible if the message is moral?
• Scholars are divided; the content, intent, and context matter greatly.
• Modern Technologies
• AI-generated images or voices: Are they imitation or tools?
• Virtual reality or video games: Halal distraction or haram waste of time?
• NFTs and digital art: Is it a business or speculation?
• Ongoing discussion in contemporary fiqh circles.
• Social Interactions
• Shaking hands with the opposite gender: Cultural greeting vs. prohibited touch?
• Mixed gatherings: Professional vs. casual settings—what's the limit?
• Social media influencers: Can they promote products or religious content?
• Judged by setting, behavior, and risk of fitnah.

How to Deal with Doubtful Matters:

• Avoid them when possible — a path to protect your faith and honor (per the hadith).
• Consult scholars — especially those trained in usul al-fiqh (legal methodology).
• Follow your conscience — as the Prophet ﷺ said:
• “Righteousness is what brings peace to your heart, and sin is what causes doubt.”
• — Musnad Ahmad 17350, Sahih by Nawawi
• Don’t condemn others harshly in doubtful areas — leave room for ikhtilaf (valid disagreement).

How to Apply This Hadith Today:

• Eating food with unclear halal status - Ingredients not verified - Avoid until certain
• Investing in stocks - Business has mixed halal/haram income - Choose clearly halal options
• Interacting online - Content may involve inappropriate speech - Refrain or set limits
• Social trends - Fashion, music, media with unclear permissibility - Stick to what aligns with Islamic values

Conclusion: This hadith establishes an important ethical principle in Islam::

• Stick to what is clear
• Follow truth, which aligns with the heart’s peace and Allah’s guidance.
• Avoid doubt in matters of conduct and belief.
• Listen to your conscience when aligned with knowledge and the Sunnah.
• Guard our hearts, because all behavior stems from it
• “A sound heart leads to a sound life.”
• That is the ultimate message of this hadith.

This is a difficuilt hadith which should not be self intepreted for any self assessment may lead to incorrect conclusions. It is better to first act upon what is unambigous in Islam. Thereafter, if there is a doubt, let it be ddiscussed with a scholar who is master of his particular field of knowledge.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions for more Hadiths on the subject

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

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