- Significance of Fajr Prayer: The Fajr prayer is one of the five obligatory prayers in Islam and holds a special place due to the timing and effort required to wake up early. It marks the beginning of the day with worship and remembrance of Allah, setting a spiritual tone for the rest of the day.
- Protection from Allah: The Hadith states that those who perform the Fajr prayer are under Allah’s protection (dhimmah). This "protection" means that Allah grants them His safeguarding, guidance, and care throughout the day. Being under Allah’s protection is a profound blessing and an assurance of divine security.
- Warning Against Harming Those Under Allah’s Protection: The Hadith warns others not to harm or betray those who are under Allah’s protection. To harm a believer who has performed their Fajr prayer is akin to violating a sacred trust with Allah Himself. This emphasizes the seriousness of maintaining respect for the sanctity of fellow Muslims.
- Severe Consequences for Harm: The Hadith makes it clear that anyone who harms or kills a believer under Allah’s protection will face dire consequences. Allah will seek retribution against such a person until they are punished severely, emphasizing the gravity of violating the rights of others.
- Protection and Guidance for Believers:
- "Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone treacherous and ungrateful." (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:38)
This verse aligns with the Hadith, highlighting that Allah defends and protects those who have faith in Him. Performing acts of worship, such as Fajr prayer, strengthens this protection and defense.
- Respect for the Sanctity of Life:
- "And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right." (Surah Al-Isra, 17:33)
The Qur'an strictly prohibits unjust killing, emphasizing the sanctity of human life. The Hadith reinforces this teaching by illustrating that harming those under Allah’s protection is a severe violation.
- Consequences for Betraying Trusts:
- "O you who have believed, do not betray Allah and the Messenger or betray your trusts while you know [the consequence]." (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:27)
- Betraying a person under Allah’s protection is also considered a betrayal of Allah Himself. This verse warns against treachery, aligning with the Hadith’s emphasis on the severe consequences for harming fellow believers.
- Warning of Hell for Those Who Harm Believers:
- "But whoever kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, wherein he will abide eternally. Allah has become angry with him and has cursed him and has prepared for him a great punishment." (Surah An-Nisa, 4:93)
- This verse parallels the Hadith by stating that those who harm or kill believers will face severe punishment in Hell. It underscores the severe spiritual consequences of such actions.
- Emphasizing the Importance of Fajr: Fajr prayer is a test of faith and discipline. By establishing Fajr, a believer demonstrates their commitment to Allah, which earns them divine protection.
- Strengthening Community Bonds: The Hadith discourages acts of treachery against fellow Muslims, promoting trust, respect, and a sense of security within the community.
- Warning Against Injustice: It serves as a powerful deterrent against harming others, especially those who have a strong connection with Allah through their worship. It highlights the sacredness of every believer’s life.
- Encouraging Upright Behavior: By reminding Muslims of Allah’s protection over those who pray, the Hadith motivates believers to uphold good character, avoid conflicts, and respect one another.
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.