Should we seek "shifā’- شفاء" (healing) from Allah only for physical healing?

Whenever someone falls sick, we pray to Allah to bless him with shifā’- شفاء" and early recovery from ailment. For indeed Allah is "Ash-Shafi" (ٱلـشَّافِى), meaning "the Healer" or "the Curer." It emphasizes Allah's power to heal and cure all kinds of illnesses. Ash-Shafi is derived from the Arabic root word "shafa" (شفا), meaning "to cure" or "to heal." 

But should we seek healing from Allah only for physical ailments? Shouldnt that undermine the immense powers of Allah and restrict these to physical healing only? Let us dwell over the Arabic word "shifā’- شفاء" and try to find the magnitude of this word in the light of Qur'an and Hadith.

Meaning of Shifā’: Linguistically, Shifā’ (شفاء) simply means cure, healing, or remedy. It is the opposite of illness (marad).

In the Islamic context, shifā’ can refer to:

• Physical Healing: 
• This is the most common understanding, that is cure from illness, pain, or injury.
• For example: when someone is sick, we ask Allah for shifā’ (healing). “Allahumma rabba an-naas, adhhib al-ba’s, ishfi anta ash-shaafi...” (“O Allah, Lord of mankind, remove the harm and heal; You are the Healer...”)
• Spiritual Healing
• Cure for spiritual / emotional diseases: While following emotional setbacks aren't classified as diseases in a medical sense, they can be detrimental to mental and emotional well-being and can be associated with certain mental health conditions. They can lead to various negative consequences and, in extreme cases, may be symptoms of more serious disorders. 
• Hypocrisy: According to psychology, hypocracy is deflection to avoid dealing with our own problems because we don't want to be judged. At the root of hypocrisy is a strong desire to be loved and accepted. The fear of humility and judgment is so powerful, that we use doublethink and cognitive dissonance to avoid facing ourselves. 
• Envy: Envy is a complex emotion that can have a significant impact on mental and emotional health. It can lead to feelings of resentment, bitterness, and even depression. Chronic envy can also damage self-esteem and relationships.
• Hate: Hate is a powerful emotion that can lead to harmful behaviors and relationships. It can manifest in various ways, from verbal abuse to violence. Hate can also be a symptom of more serious mental health conditions, such as personality disorders or psychosis. 
• Arrogance: Arrogance is often characterized by an excessive sense of self-importance and an inflated opinion of one's own abilities or status. It can be associated with narcissism and can lead to interpersonal difficulties.  
• Emotional grief:  While grief can sometimes be intense or prolonged, it's not classified as a disease unless it becomes a more complex condition like Prolonged Grief Disorder. , 
• Malice "Bugz": "Bugz" likely refers to the Urdu word "bughz," which means malice, grudge, hatred, or enmity. It can also be used in a more general way to describe anything that is considered annoying, irritating, or bothersome. In the context of Rekhta Dictionary, "bughz" is a noun referring to the concept of ill-will, while the term "bug" in English can refer to a fault, flaw, or an annoying insect. Keeping excessive malice in one's heart against others often results into many a mental disorder, sometimes incurable.
• Islam recognizes emotional pain and prescribes du‘ā’, dhikr, and turning to Allah as a means of emotional shifā’.
• The Qur'an itself is called a source of shifā’ for the heart and soul: "And We send down of the Qur’an that which is a healing and mercy for the believers..." (Surah Al-Isra 17:82)
• Intercession (Shafā‘ah) – Different but related concept
• Just to clarify: Shifā’ (healing) is not the same as Shafā‘ah (intercession), though the root is similar.
• Shafā‘ah is when someone intercedes on behalf of another – like the Prophet ﷺ interceding on Judgment Day.

Now back to our question: Is shifā’ only asked for physical illness?

In light of above explanation, the answer is No, it's not limited to that. In Islam, a believer may ask for shifā’ in all aspects:

• For physical illness: “اللهم اشفِ فلانًا” — "O Allah, heal so-and-so."
• For spiritual or inner peace: “اللهم اشفِ قلبي” — "O Allah, heal my heart."
• Quoting the Qur’an: “...فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِلنَّاسِ” (In it [honey] is healing for people) – [Surah An-Nahl 16:69]

References from Qur'an and Hadiths:

Here is a list of Qur'anic verses and authentic Prophetic du‘ās that mention or seek shifā’ (healing) — for physical, spiritual, or emotional well-being.

• Qur'anic Verses About Shifā’ (Healing)
• Surah Al-Isra (17:82):  
• This refers to the Qur’an as spiritual and emotional healing
• "وَنُنَزِّلُ مِنَ الْقُرْآنِ مَا هُوَ شِفَاءٌ وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ" - “And We send down from the Qur’an that which is a healing and mercy for the believers.”
• Surah Fussilat (41:44):
• Here again, the Qur’an is described as a source of spiritual healing.
• "...قُلْ هُوَ لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا هُدًى وَشِفَاءٌ..." - “Say: It is, for those who believe, a guidance and a healing.”
• Surah Ash-Shu‘ara (26:80): 
• This is the du‘ā of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) – acknowledging that only Allah gives shifā’.
• "وَإِذَا مَرِضْتُ فَهُوَ يَشْفِينِ" - “And when I am ill, it is He who cures me.”
• 4. Surah An-Nahl (16:69)
• Refers to honey as a natural healing remedy – endorsed in the Qur’an and Sunnah.
• "فِيهِ شِفَاءٌ لِلنَّاسِ" - “In it [honey] is healing for people.”
• Prophetic Du‘ās (Sunnah) Seeking Shifā’
• Du‘ā of the Prophet ﷺ for illness (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5675):
• This is one of the most comprehensive du‘ās for any type of healing:
• "اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ النَّاسِ، أَذْهِبِ الْبَأْسَ، اشْفِ أَنْتَ الشَّافِي، لَا شِفَاءَ إِلَّا شِفَاؤُكَ، شِفَاءً لَا يُغَادِرُ سَقَمًا" - “O Allah, Lord of mankind, remove the harm and heal. You are the Healer. There is no healing but Yours, a healing that leaves no illness behind.”
• Du‘ā with Ruqyah (for yourself or others) – [Muslim, 2192]:
• "بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَ، مِنْ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ يُؤْذِيكَ، مِنْ شَرِّ كُلِّ نَفْسٍ، أَوْ عَيْنٍ حَاسِدٍ، اللَّهُ يَشْفِيكَ، بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أَرْقِيكَ"
  “In the name of Allah, I perform ruqyah for you, from everything that harms you, from the evil of every soul and envious eye. May Allah heal you. In the name of Allah, I perform ruqyah for you.”
• This is often recited for protection from envy, spiritual or unseen harm.
• Du‘ā of distress or sadness – [Abu Dawud, 5090]:
• "اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْهَمِّ وَالْحَزَنِ..." “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sorrow...”
• Indirectly connected to emotional shifā’.
• Du‘ā for someone sick – [Tirmidhi, 2083]:
• "أَسْأَلُ اللهَ الْعَظِيمَ، رَبَّ الْعَرْشِ الْعَظِيمِ، أَنْ يَشْفِيَكَ" - “I ask Allah the Magnificent, Lord of the Magnificent Throne, to heal you.” (Repeat 7 times)
• Highly recommended for visiting the sick.

As for physical healing, A’ishah (RA), the third wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ narrates that whenever the Prophet ﷺ would become sick, he would recite [the last 3 Surahs of the Qur’an] and then blow over his body. She says: During his last illness from which he passed away, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to blow over himself. But when his sickness intensified, I used to (recite and then) blow over him using his own hands because of their blessings.

Thus, in the light of Qur'an and Hadiths, "shifā’- شفاء"  is not related to healing and cure from physical ailment but also cure from all kinds of spiritual ailments too, which in fact more often than not become a reason for physical ailment. Let us turn to Allah whenever we are physically or spiritually ill and be rest assured Allah responds with endless "shifā’- شفاء" and redresses our ailment. However, for physical ailment, one should also take prescribed medication and then leave the revoery to Allah for in the end it is Allah alone who blesses us with "shifā’- شفاء" .

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 | references: Help has been taken from ChatGPT for expansion.

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The superiority of men of Ribāṭ (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Allah promises rewards to thby remaining on full alert  e beleivers for every act of theirs which carried out as Allah commanded them, specially so to guard fellow Muslims against the infidels. The men who leave behind their families and children to guard the frontiers of Muslim dominions is not a small thing to do, for one has the brace the cold winter nights in blowing blizzards besides facing the enemy eyeball to eyeball. These brave men do not go to defend the frontiers to earn laurels and come back home wearing flower garlands, but they defencd brthern Muslims as have been commanded by Allah.

For their loyalty and obeyance of Allah, they are promised rewards that make them stand superior to others. This is the theme of the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ being shared today as mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 56: Fighting for the Cause of Allah (Jihaad) / كتاب الجهاد والسير / Chapter 73: The superiority of guarding (Muslims from infidels) / باب  فَضْلِ رِبَاطِ يَوْمٍ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ / as Hadith 2892, given herein under:

Narrated Sahl bin Sa`d As-Sa'di:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "To guard Muslims from infidels in Allah's Cause for one day is better than the world and whatever is on its surface, and a place in Paradise as small as that occupied by the whip of one of you is better than the world and whatever is on its surface; and a morning's or an evening's journey which a slave (person) travels in Allah's Cause is better than the world and whatever is on its surface."

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مُنِيرٍ، سَمِعَ أَبَا النَّضْرِ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ دِينَارٍ، عَنْ أَبِي حَازِمٍ، عَنْ سَهْلِ بْنِ سَعْدٍ السَّاعِدِيِّ ـ رضى الله عنه ـ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ رِبَاطُ يَوْمٍ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ خَيْرٌ مِنَ الدُّنْيَا وَمَا عَلَيْهَا، وَمَوْضِعُ سَوْطِ أَحَدِكُمْ مِنَ 

الْجَنَّةِ خَيْرٌ مِنَ الدُّنْيَا وَمَا عَلَيْهَا، وَالرَّوْحَةُ يَرُوحُهَا الْعَبْدُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ أَوِ الْغَدْوَةُ خَيْرٌ مِنَ الدُّنْيَا وَمَا عَلَيْهَا ‏"‏‏.‏

Before we explain the Hadith, let us define the word Ribāṭ:

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spoke with great admiration and encouragement regarding the people who engage in Ribāṭ "رِبَاطُ" —a term that refers to guarding the Muslim frontiers or being stationed in defense of the Muslim lands, often in a spiritual as well as military sense.

Meaning of Ribāṭ Today

In the Arabic language, the word "ribat" (رِبَاط) refers to a fortified outpost or a place of defense, often associated with the borders of the Muslim empire. It can also signify a spiritual retreat or a monastery for Sufis, representing a place dedicated to religious devotion and learning. 

Today, many scholars interpret it more broadly today, including:

• Ribāṭ is a form of sacrifice, and the Qur’an constantly places such acts above worldly pursuits.
• Spiritual steadfastness and guarding one's faith.
• Remaining firm in Islamic identity in hostile or secular environments.
• Defending Muslim lands or values when under threat. 

Key Hadiths About Ribāṭ:

• Continuous Reward
• The Prophet ﷺ said: "Ribāṭ for one day in the cause of Allah is better than the world and whatever is in it." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2892; Sahih Muslim, 1880)
• This means that spending even a single day guarding the frontiers or protecting the Muslim community with sincerity for Allah’s sake is more valuable in Allah’s sight than all the material wealth and pleasures of the world.
• Protection from the Fire
• The Prophet ﷺ said: "One who dies while in Ribāṭ in the cause of Allah will be protected from the punishment of the grave, and he will be secure from the great terror (on the Day of Judgment)." (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 1669 — Hasan)
• This hadith highlights both spiritual and eschatological (afterlife) rewards for those involved in Ribāṭ.
• Ongoing Rewards After Death
• The Prophet ﷺ said: "The actions of a dead person cease except three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for him — and the one stationed in Ribāṭ. His deeds continue to be recorded like those of someone who is still alive until the Day of Judgment." (Related in Sunan Abu Dawood and others, considered Hasan)
• This is a profound statement showing that the people of Ribāṭ may receive ongoing rewards (thawāb) like someone alive, even after death.

Explaining this hadith in light of the Qur'an

To understand it deeply, we can look at several Qur’anic themes and verses that support the spiritual and moral weight of Ribāṭ:

• Qur'anic Command to Guard and Strive for Allah{
• "O you who have believed, persevere and endure and remain stationed (rābiṭū) and fear Allah that you may succeed." (Surah Āl-‘Imrān 3:200)
• The word رَابِطُوا (rābiṭū) used here is from the same root as Ribāṭ.
• It means to remain stationed, firm, and ready—physically and spiritually.
• Allah links this steadfastness and Ribāṭ to success (falāḥ), showing its high rank in Islam.
• Worldly Life Is Nothing Compared to the Hereafter
• "Say: The enjoyment of this world is little, and the Hereafter is better for he who fears Allah..." (Surah An-Nisā’ 4:77)
• This aligns with the hadith’s message: Even if you possessed the whole world, it wouldn’t compare to the reward of sincere service in Allah’s path.
• Reward of Those Who Strive in the Way of Allah
• "Indeed, Allah has purchased from the believers their lives and their properties [in exchange] for Paradise..." (Surah At-Tawbah 9:111)
• Guarding the frontlines, as in Ribāṭ, is a part of this deal with Allah.
• Allah considers such sacrifices as a transaction for Jannah, making even one day of Ribāṭ more valuable than this world.
• The Temporary Nature of the World
• "Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting..." (Surah Al-Hadid 57:20)
• The hadith clearly contrasts the ephemeral world with the eternal reward of a sincere act.
• A single day of Ribāṭ is rewarded with something eternal, while the world is just passing amusement.

The hadith, thus, reminds Muslims that the value system of Islam is not based on wealth, comfort, or worldly status—but on sacrifice, sincerity, and service to Allah.

The Hadith also means that anyone who dies of an account while guarding the Muslim frontiers will also be given the status of a martyr and will continue to reeive the rwardof Ribāṭ  till the Day of Judgement. In the warfare of today, when the attacks are not restricted to the frontiers like the drone attacks or missiles and bombs, then all those guarding the arsenal and means of sustenance of those on frontiers will also be given the reward. However, the reward is resiprocal to the intentions for if someone is guarding frontiers for any other reason than pleasing Allah may be deprived of a time wasted for show off only. So let us keep our intentions pure and without any greed.

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: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards 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: Self Taken | 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.

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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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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.

This means no matter how much money or wealth one may amass, he may not get a chance get a chance to spend the money. Which means he may just be acting as a treasurer of his wealth which would be in fact used by his heir when he dies. Therefore one may spend what he earns, part on him and part on the poor, for this will bring Barakah to his earnings.

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

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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.

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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.

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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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