Who are the Blessed Seven regarded as martyrs in Islam (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Generally speaking, whenever the word martyrdom is taken in Islam, people mostly understand the loss of life in battle. However, this is not always the case. In fact martyrdom in Islam has a much wider meaning and It also includes those who lose life prematurely by natural causes, accidents, or illnesses, and even mothers who lose their lives while giving birth. Some even attribute death of the people at the hands of unjust rulers as martyrdom too.

Let us first define the word used in Arabic for the martyrs: 

In Arabic, the word used for a martyr is Shahīd (Arabic: شهيد). The word is used frequently in the Quran in the generic sense of "witness" but only once in the sense of "martyr" (i.e. one who dies for his faith); the latter sense acquires wider usage in the hadith. The term's usage is also borrowed by non-Muslim communities where Persianate Islamic empires held cultural influence, such as amongst Hindus and Sikhs in India.

The companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ often clarified the same and wanted a prophetic interpretation of the word martyr or shaheed as in Arabic. Today we share two hadiths attributed to the revered Prophet of Allah to clarify who really is a martyr beside the one who dies in battle in protection of one's faith or country.

The first clarification is mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ al‑Bukhārī hadith 2829, an authentic hadith with profound implications when viewed alongside the Qurʾān and supporting hadiths:

• First Hadith (Bukhārī 2829)
• Narrated by Abū Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him): “Five are regarded as martyrs: those who die from plague, abdominal disease, drowning, a falling building (death by collapse), and the martyr in Allah’s cause.” 
• Context & Explanation: This hadith expands the concept of martyrdom (shahādah) beyond battlefield death, reflecting the Qurʾānic principle that true sacrifice and sincerity count in the sight of Allah.

The second clarification is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud hadith 3111, graded Sahi (Albani) adds three more categories to the above stated hadith:

• Second Hadith (Sunan Abi Dawud 3111)
• Narrated Jabir ibn Atik: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) came to visit Abdullah ibn Thabit who was ill. He found that he was dominated (by the divine decree). The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) called him loudly, but he did not respond. He uttered the Qur'anic verse "We belong to Allah and to Him do we return" and he said: We have been dominated against you, AburRabi'. Then the women cried and wept, and Ibn Atik began to silence them. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Leave them, when the divine decree is made, no woman should weep.
• They (the people) asked: What is necessary happening, Messenger of Allah? He replied: Death. His daughter said: I hope you will be a martyr, for you have completed your preparations for jihad. 
• The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Allah Most High gave him a reward according to his intentions. What do you consider martyrdom? They said: Being killed in the cause of Allah.
• The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: There are seven types of martyrdom in addition to being killed in Allah's cause: 
• one who dies of plague is a martyr; 
• one who is drowned is a martyr; 
• one who dies of pleurisy is a martyr; 
• one who dies of an internal complaint is a martyr; 
• one who is burnt to death is a martyr; 
• who one is killed by a building falling on him is a martyr; 
• and a woman who dies while pregnant is a martyr.

So the above two hadiths agree on four type of people who die and are considered as martyrs, beside the one lays down one's life in a battle. However, since the second hadith too is authentic, three more cases are added: (1) one who dies of plague is a martyr (2) one who is burnt to death is a martyr (3) a woman who dies while pregnant.

Some scholars sub divide the martyrdom into two main categories: ‘Shahadah Haqeeqiyyah’ i.e. real martyrdom (that is martyrdom in the battle), whereas other forms of martyrdoms are considered ‘Shahadah Hukmiyyah’ i.e. legal martyrdom, the remaining six categories mentioned above.

Qurʾānic Foundations of Martyrdom

The Qurʾān links martyrdom with ultimate sincerity and sacrifice, especially in verses promising paradise for those who give their wealth and lives for Allah’s way (e.g. Qurʾān 3:169‑170).

In Qur'an, a Shahīd (شهيد) is considered one whose place in Paradise is promised according to following verses in the Quran

(3:169) Think not of those slain in the way of Allah as dead. Indeed they are living, and with their Lord they have their sustenance, (3:170) rejoicing in what Allah has bestowed upon them out of His bounty, jubilant that neither fear nor grief shall come upon the believers left behind in the world who have not yet joined them.

Allah hath purchased of the believers their persons and their goods; for theirs (in return) is the garden (of Paradise): they fight in His cause, and slay and are slain: a promise binding on Him in truth, through the Torah, the Gospel, and the Qur’an: and who is more faithful to his covenant than Allah? then rejoice in the bargain which ye have concluded: that is the achievement supreme. (Qur'an 9:111) 

The Quranic passage that follows is the source of the concept of Muslim martyrs being promised Paradise:

Those who leave their homes in the cause of Allah, and are then slain or die,- On them will Allah bestow verily a goodly Provision: Truly Allah is He Who bestows the best provision. Verily He will admit them to a place with which they shall be well pleased: for Allah is All-Knowing, Most Forbearing. — Quran 22:58–59 

However, the above said verses does not explicitly enumerate the categories mentioned in the two hadiths quoted above; later clarified by  Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  which clarify categories of sacrifice beyond combat.

Spiritual & Legal Implications in Islam

These hadith assure Muslims that suffering and death in the course of unavoidable calamities—plague, illness, drowning, disasters and death due to pregnancy—are not wasted but count as elevated status before Allah.  These categories provides spiritual comfort and encourages perseverance even in misfortune.

Supporting Traditions & Interpretations

Sahih Muslim 2829 complements this meaning with a profound description: Allah will ask the dwellers of Paradise, “Are you pleased?” and, upon affirmative response, say: “Shall I not give you something better?” They respond “What is better than that?” He replies: “My pleasure—and I will never be displeased with you ever again.” 

The above quoted Hadiths though label true martyrdom in the battle, the others teach that sincere suffering in God’s way is similarly honored.

Conclusion

Th above quoted hadiths clarify a broader understanding of martyrdom: not only the warrior, but the patient sufferer, provided the intention is right, enters Allah’s mercy as a martyr. It builds on Qur’anic values of sacrifice and sincerity, and evokes deeper hope for believers enduring trials.

Let us pray that when we die, we die in true faith with a hope of being honoured of inclusion in the categories of martyrs as mentioned in the Hadiths so quoted. Ameen 

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: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 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 | Sources of Hadiths: | Hadith1 | Hadith 2 | Resource References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |

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 Imam of the masjid for more clarification.

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to "force" preach, convert, or criticize any belief system. The views shared are meant to inspire dialogue, understanding, and reflection. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for those navigating sensitive religious experiences. Always seek knowledge with an open heart and mind.

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.

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What is the wisdom behind Prohibition of Backbiting (ghibah الغيبة) in Islam

Backbiting and slandering are two of the major sins in Islam. These two sins are forbidden by Allah because they sow enmity, evil and discord among people and lead to destruction. Normally, these two sins are initiated with deceit and intended harm for others. In most of the cases these tear apart the otherwise harmonized and friendly moral fiber between They cause hostilities between people of the same household, friends, neighbours and relatives.  In fact backbiting and slander set forth non ending hostilities and disintegration of relations.

Divine Admonishment of Backbiting and Slandering

Owing to the harmful effect of these two ugly sins, Allah has cautioned believers against this un-Islamic act, cautioning severe consequences who indulge in such evil acts. Let us quote a few verses from Qur'an:

• Condemnation of Backbiting:

"O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Accepting of repentance and Merciful." (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:12)

This verse equates backbiting to eating the flesh of a dead brother, a vivid and graphic metaphor that illustrates the abhorrence of this act in the sight of Allah. It emphasizes how detestable backbiting is, both morally and spiritually.

• Prohibition of Slander and Falsehood:

"Woe to every scorner and mocker." (Surah Al-Humazah, 104:1)

This verse condemns those who engage in mockery and scorn, behaviors often associated with backbiting and slander. It serves as a warning to avoid speaking ill of others.

• Guarding One’s Tongue:

"Not a word does he (or she) utter, but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it)." (Surah Qaf, 50:18)

This verse reminds believers that every word spoken is recorded, highlighting the importance of being mindful of speech, particularly when discussing others.

• Spreading Goodness and Avoiding Harm:

"And speak to people good [words]..." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:83)

The Qur'an instructs believers to speak kindly and avoid words that cause harm or spread negativity. Backbiting is the opposite of this command.

Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ related to Backbiting

In one of the Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: 

Do you know what is backbiting? They (the Companions) said: Allah and His Messenger know best. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: Backbiting implies your talking about your brother in a manner which he does not like. It was said to him: What is your opinion about this that if I actually find (that failing) in my brother which I made a mention of? He said: If (that failing) is actually found (in him) what you assert, you in fact backbited him, and if that is not in him it is a slander.

Note: You may like to read our earlier post: A Qattat will not enter Paradise (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) on the similar theme. 

• Definition of Backbiting (Ghibah): The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ defines backbiting as speaking about a fellow Muslim in a way that he or she would dislike, whether the statement is true or not. It involves mentioning someone's faults behind their back, which they would not want others to know or discuss.
• True vs. False Statements: The Prophet ﷺ clarifies that if the fault being mentioned is actually present in the person, it is considered backbiting. If the fault does not exist, it becomes slander (buhtan), which is an even greater sin because it involves spreading falsehoods and lies about someone. 
• Impact on Relationships: Backbiting damages relationships, spreads negativity, and fosters distrust within the community. It is seen as a destructive force that undermines social harmony.

Wisdom Behind the Prohibition of Backbiting

• Protecting Dignity and Honor: Islam places great emphasis on preserving the dignity and honor of every individual. Backbiting violates these principles by exposing and highlighting faults in a way that causes harm.
• Promoting Social Cohesion: By prohibiting backbiting, Islam seeks to maintain unity and trust within the community. When people refrain from speaking ill of one another, relationships are strengthened, and conflicts are minimized. 
• Encouraging Self-Reflection and Repentance: The emphasis on avoiding backbiting encourages individuals to reflect on their own behavior rather than focusing on the faults of others. It promotes self-awareness and humility.
• Guarding Against Greater Sins: Backbiting often leads to more significant sins, such as spreading falsehoods, causing enmity, and breaking relationships. By curbing this behavior, Islam aims to prevent a cascade of negative actions.

Consequences of Backbiting:

• Spiritual Consequences: Backbiting distances a person from Allah’s mercy. It is considered a serious sin that can lead to the displeasure of Allah and potential punishment in the Hereafter.
• Social Consequences: It breeds mistrust and resentment, creating divisions within families, friendships, and communities. The social fabric is weakened when individuals feel unsafe from verbal attacks behind their backs.
• Personal Consequences: Engaging in backbiting reflects poorly on one’s character. It often leads to a loss of respect and trust from others.

The The above quoted verses from Qur'an and Hadith on backbiting, highlight the severe spiritual and social harm caused by speaking ill of others. It stresses the importance of guarding one’s tongue, preserving the dignity of others, and fostering a positive, respectful environment. By avoiding backbiting, believers align themselves with the ethical and moral standards set by Islam, promoting harmony and mutual respect within the community.

Now just look around and see how much slandering and backbiting we are accused of - knowingly (mostly) and unknowingly. There is a special caution for women whose gossip is generally comprised of backbiting and slandering. That is why in one of the Hadiths, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned women hat on his ascent to the heaven during Israh, he would poor people in Paradise and more women than men in the Hell, for the bad habit of backbiting and slandering in the worldly life. Let us make an effort to desist and refrain from these two sins which severe consequences.

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.

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also to our reference page: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more Hadiths on the subject and 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 | Additional Resource Reference | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the theme of the post.

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.

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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Why did Prophet Muhammad ﷺ use rain metaphorically to explain the concept of guidance

Many non Muslims try to find scientific correlation of events and working of the universe from the Qur'an - an analysis never applied to earlier three Divine Scriptures, that is Psalms, Torah and the Gospel. Though Qur'an  answers many such queries, Qur'an is not a book of science or fiction. In fact the Quran is a book of guidance for the entire mankind. It is the ultimate source of guidance for all aspects of life, providing direction on spiritual, moral, social, and legal matters. The Quran itself emphasizes its role as guidance for humanity in several verses. 

Here we would only refer to the very first verse on guidance as mentioned in the second verse of Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2):

"This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah."  This verse explicitly states that the Quran is a book of guidance for those who are mindful of Allah, often referred to as the "muttaqin" or the God-conscious.

We would write a comprehensive post on guidance as mentioned in Qur'an and many a hadith in a while. But for now we share a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in which rain is used metaphorically to explain the concept of guidance.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 3 Knowledge /  كتاب العلم / Chapter 20:  The superiority of a person who learns (Islam, becomes a religious scholar) and then teaches it to others / باب   فَضْلِ مَنْ عَلِمَ وَعَلَّمَ ‏ ) as Hadith 79, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Musa:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil that absorbed rain water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. (And) another portion of it was hard and held the rain water and Allah benefited the people with it and they utilized it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then that land gave no benefits). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allah's religion and gets benefit (from the knowledge) which Allah has revealed through me (the Prophets and learns and then teaches others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allah's guidance revealed through me (He is like that barren land.)"

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ الْعَلاَءِ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا حَمَّادُ بْنُ أُسَامَةَ، عَنْ بُرَيْدِ بْنِ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنْ أَبِي بُرْدَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي مُوسَى، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ مَثَلُ مَا بَعَثَنِي اللَّهُ بِهِ مِنَ الْهُدَى وَالْعِلْمِ كَمَثَلِ الْغَيْثِ الْكَثِيرِ أَصَابَ أَرْضًا، فَكَانَ مِنْهَا نَقِيَّةٌ قَبِلَتِ الْمَاءَ، فَأَنْبَتَتِ الْكَلأَ وَالْعُشْبَ الْكَثِيرَ، وَكَانَتْ مِنْهَا أَجَادِبُ أَمْسَكَتِ الْمَاءَ، فَنَفَعَ اللَّهُ بِهَا النَّاسَ، فَشَرِبُوا وَسَقَوْا وَزَرَعُوا، وَأَصَابَتْ مِنْهَا طَائِفَةً أُخْرَى، إِنَّمَا هِيَ قِيعَانٌ لاَ تُمْسِكُ مَاءً، وَلاَ تُنْبِتُ كَلأً، فَذَلِكَ مَثَلُ مَنْ فَقِهَ فِي دِينِ اللَّهِ وَنَفَعَهُ مَا بَعَثَنِي اللَّهُ بِهِ، فَعَلِمَ وَعَلَّمَ، وَمَثَلُ مَنْ لَمْ يَرْفَعْ بِذَلِكَ رَأْسًا، وَلَمْ يَقْبَلْ هُدَى اللَّهِ الَّذِي أُرْسِلْتُ بِهِ ‏"‏‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عَبْدِ اللَّهِ قَالَ إِسْحَاقُ وَكَانَ مِنْهَا طَائِفَةٌ قَيَّلَتِ الْمَاءَ‏.‏ قَاعٌ يَعْلُوهُ الْمَاءُ، وَالصَّفْصَفُ الْمُسْتَوِي مِنَ الأَرْضِ‏.‏

Explanation of the Hadith:

• Guidance as a Blessing (As mentioned in Qur'an): The Quran frequently likens divine guidance to rain that brings life to barren land. For instance, in Surah Al-Hadid (57:17): "Know that Allah gives life to the earth after its lifelessness. We have made clear to you the signs; perhaps you will understand." Just as rain revives dead land, divine guidance revives the hearts and souls of people.
• Different Receptions of Guidance: The hadith describes three types of land, which symbolize three types of people:
• Fertile Soil: Represents those who absorb the guidance, understand it, and act upon it, bringing benefit to themselves and others. This aligns with the description in Surah Az-Zumar (39:18): 
• "Who listen to speech and follow the best of it. Those are the ones Allah has guided, and those are people of understanding."
• Hard Land: Represents those who hold onto the knowledge and convey it to others, even if they might not fully benefit from it themselves. This can be related to Surah Al-Baqarah (2:269):
• "He grants wisdom to whom He wills, and whoever has been given wisdom has certainly been given much good. But none will remember except those of understanding."
• Barren Land: Represents those who neither accept nor benefit from the guidance. This is reflected in Surah Al-A'raf (7:179):
• "And We have certainly created for Hell many of the jinn and mankind. They have hearts with which they do not understand, they have eyes with which they do not see, and they have ears with which they do not hear. Those are like livestock; rather, they are more astray. It is they who are the heedless."
• The Role of the Prophet (ﷺ): The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was sent as a mercy and a source of guidance to all of humanity.
•  Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107) states: "And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds."
• The hadith emphasizes the varying effects of his message on different people, illustrating the idea found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:29): "And say, 'The truth is from your Lord, so whoever wills - let him believe; and whoever wills - let him disbelieve.' Indeed, We have prepared for the wrongdoers a fire whose walls will surround them. And if they call for relief, they will be relieved with water like murky oil, which scalds [their] faces. Wretched is the drink, and evil is the resting place."

The hadith from Sahih Bukhari uses the metaphor of rain and different types of soil to explain how people respond differently to divine guidance. This metaphor is consistent with various Quranic themes, where guidance is depicted as a life-giving force, and people's varied receptivity to it is acknowledged. Those who understand and act upon the guidance are likened to fertile soil that brings forth vegetation, benefiting themselves and others. In contrast, those who reject the guidance are compared to barren land that remains unproductive.

So let us benefit from guidance from Qur'an and many a hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which further explain the concept of guidance. Remember Qur'an and Hadiths are to interpreted with wisdom and not with a tainted mindset. It is only then we would start to know what is Siraat e Mustaqeem and true guidance.

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: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 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

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.

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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What did Prophet Muhammad ﷺ say about respect of his companions

Blessed have been those who lived in the companionship of prophets and messengers of Allah. For these were the people who not only saw the prophets and messengers from their own eyes, but also heard the Divine words as revealed unto them. It is for this reason that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on many a occasion emphasized the importance of respecting his companions (Sahaba) through various sayings and actions. The companions are seen as role models for subsequent generations of Muslims, having lived during the formative period of Islam and closely followed the teachings and practices of the Prophet (ﷺ). He regarded them as exemplary models of faith and piety. 

Let us share some notable hadiths that highlight the Prophet's views on respecting his companions:

Protection and Reverence for Companions:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Do not revile my companions, for by Him in Whose Hand my soul is, if any one of you were to spend the equivalent of Mount Uhud in gold (in Allah's cause) it would not be equal to a mudd (a measure) or even a half mudd spent by one of them." (Sahih Bukhari 3673)

Note: Mudd is a scale of measurement which equals to about 650-750 grams. Now imagine the weight of the Mount Uhud and its comparison to just a few hundred grams. Now imagine the emphasis by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on respect of his companions: On one hand is a man who spends fortunes equal to the weight of mount Uhud, and on the other hand is a companion of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ who only spends a mudd or half of mudd in Allah's cause.

Overview of Mount Uhud (Photo Courtesy: People of Saudi Arabia) 

Significance and dimension of Mount Uhud: Mount Uhud (Arabic: جَبَل أُحُد) is a mountain north of Medina, in the Hejazi region of Saudi Arabia. It is 1,077 m (3,533 ft) high and 7.5 km (4.7 mi) long. It was the site of the second battle between the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the polytheists of his tribe of Quraysh. The Battle of Uhud was fought on 19 March, 625 CE, between a force from the small Muslim community of Medina and a force from Mecca, in north-western Arabia.

Recognition of Their Sacrifices:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The best of my followers are those living in my generation (i.e., my contemporaries), and then those who will follow the latter (the next generation)." (Sahih Muslim 2533)

Avoidance of Disparaging Remarks:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Fear Allah regarding my Companions. Do not make them targets (for criticism) after me. Whoever loves them loves them because of his love for me, and whoever hates them hates them because of his hatred for me. Whoever harms them has harmed me, and whoever harms me has harmed Allah, and whoever harms Allah, it is imminent that He will seize him." (Sahih Muslim 2541)

Acknowledgment of Their Status:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The stars are a source of security for the sky and when the stars disappear, that which has been decreed for the sky will come upon it. I am a source of security for my companions and when I go away, that which has been decreed for my companions will come upon them. And my companions are a source of security for my Ummah and when my companions go away, that which has been decreed for my Ummah will come upon it." (Sunan Ibn Majah)

High Status and Honor:

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) placed his companions in high esteem, recognizing their unique status and sacrifices for the cause of Islam.

Prohibition of Insulting:

He explicitly prohibited insulting or criticizing his companions, emphasizing that any harm or disrespect towards them is akin to harming him and, by extension, Allah.

Security for the Ummah:

The Prophet (ﷺ) described his companions as a source of security and stability for the Muslim community, indicating their pivotal role in the preservation and transmission of Islamic teachings.

In light of above Hadiths, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) underscored the importance of respecting his companions due to their pivotal role in the early Islamic community, their sacrifices, and their exemplary faith. The hadiths provide clear guidance on treating the companions with reverence and avoiding any form of disparagement, highlighting their unique and honored status in Islam.

It is disheartening to see some Muslims ridiculing the companions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and downplaying their role in the strengthening of Islam and carrying it forward as a sacred duty as entrusted to them by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Let us respect those whom Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) has asked to be respected, for if we do, we are nothing but annoying the soul of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

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: Oft asked Queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ 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 | Sources of Hadith are given after each Hadith mentioned above.

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.

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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Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Oft asked Queries / Special Matters

This reference page is yet another one in our series of posts on Collection of Hadiths on a specific subject. And this about special matters or answers to some of the oft asked queries from Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Many questions have been answered or directives given to address day-to-day dealing related to our social life. Can you beat it that the revered Prophet ﷺ directed to pay the wages of a labourer fourteen centuries ago, something that only recently been advocated through celebrating the 1 May as the day to ensure protection of rights of the labourers? And what are the grave consequences of committing suicide or how to ensure effective Anger Management, a subject that has only recently been given due attention. Or for that matter the rights of neigbours and that of one believer over the other!

Let us get started then: The links to Hadiths on oft asked queries / special matters are given herein under:

• How Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) taught the religion (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 50)
• When to wait for the hour (The Doomsday) (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 59)
• How Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used rain metaphorically to explain the concept of guidance (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 79)
• Why Prophet Muhammad ﷺ advised Women to give alms (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 304)
• Who will be the seven people provided shade by Allah when shade will otherwise be nonexistent (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, Hadith 660)
• What are the Rights of one Muslim over the other (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 2162b)
• Who are the Blessed Seven regarded as martyrs in Islam (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 2829 / Sunan Abu Dawud 3111)
• Who are the Two most rightfully enviable believers (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 5025)
• What are the Rights of Neighbour (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 5425)
• The grave consequences of committing suicide (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī:Hadith 5778) 
• Rising of the sun from the west: The Doomsday Prediction (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 4636)
• Who will never feel even the smell of Paradise (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 7150) 
• Why Prophet Muhammad ﷺ forbade people from Longing for Death (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī: Hadith 7235)
• How to arrest the spread of Immorality (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, Hadith 338a)
• Every child is born in a state of Fitrah (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Hadith 2658e)
• Reward of providing food for a fasting person to break his fast (Jami` at-Tirmidhi as Hadith: 807)
• Fitnah (test) of wealth (Jami` at-Tirmidhi as Hadith: 2336)
• A treasure from treasures of Paradise (Jami` at-Tirmidhi as Hadith: 3601)
• Who is a Hypocrite: Three indications of a hypocrite
• The Rewards For Reciting The Qur'an (Sunan Abi Dawud: 1454)
• Let the mark of Allah’s favour and honour to you BE SEEN (Sunan Abi Dawud: 4063)
• Backbiting and Slandering: The worst acts of a believer: (Sunan Abi Dawud: 4874)
• Whom did Prophet ﷺ prayed for: "May Allah cause his face to shine" (Sunan Ibn Majah Hadith 232)
• Labor Day: Give the worker his wages before his sweat dries (Sunan Ibn Majah Hadith 2443)  

Miscellaneous Queries - answers also found in Qur'an

• Why Islam equates Cleanliness to Half of the Faith 
• What did Prophet Muhammad ﷺ say about resect of his companions

We hope that our readers will like this reference page useful and informative. We will continue to add more Hadiths on the subject in our future posts to keep our readers updated.

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: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. 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.

Photo | 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 Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More