Anger Management as taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ : What to say when one is angry

Anger is defined as an emotion characterized by antagonism toward someone or something you feel has deliberately done you wrong. Anger can be a good thing. It can give you a way to express negative feelings, for example, or motivate you to find solutions to problems. To be angry is to be furious. People who get angry a lot have a short temper. This is a word for a common emotion: being mad or enraged. People get mad all the time, about traffic, homework, parents, children, and even the weather. 

It is generally seen that many a  man cannot control their emotions and exhibit an explosive outburst when being antagonized. In fact when a person is angry, he is temporarily robbed of the ability to think straight and takes erratic decisions for which he feel sorry for himself when the anger has subsided. The emotional and reactive outbursts in most cases cause losing friends and relatives, even business deals, and have very negative and deep impact on one's own life and health. 

In Islam, any unusual negative response to a situation is attributed to the work of the Satan and the evil forces, for these evil forces are all the time on the lookout of people who can be easily tempted to show their emotional response easily. Under such situations, one must immediately try to disengage from a situation and act upon the advice of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

This Hadith is mentioned Jami` at-Tirmidhi  (48 -  Chapters on Supplication / كتاب الدعوات عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم / Chapter # 51 What One Says When Angry / باب مَا يَقُولُ عِنْدَ الْغَضَبِ  ) as Hadith number # 3452:

Mu`adh bin Jabal narrated :

that one of the two men cursed the other next to the Prophet (ﷺ), until anger could be recognized in the face of one of them. So the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Verily, I know a statement, that if he were to say it, his anger would leave: ‘I seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan, the rejected (A`ūdhu billāhi minash-shaiṭānir-rajīm).’”

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا مَحْمُودُ بْنُ غَيْلاَنَ، حَدَّثَنَا قَبِيصَةُ، أَخْبَرَنَا سُفْيَانُ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الْمَلِكِ بْنِ عُمَيْرٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ أَبِي لَيْلَى، عَنْ مُعَاذِ بْنِ جَبَلٍ، رضى الله عنه قَالَ اسْتَبَّ رَجُلاَنِ عِنْدَ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم حَتَّى عُرِفَ الْغَضَبُ فِي وَجْهِ أَحَدِهِمَا فَقَالَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ إِنِّي لأَعْلَمُ كَلِمَةً لَوْ قَالَهَا لَذَهَبَ غَضَبُهُ أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ حَدَّثَنَا بُنْدَارٌ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ، عَنْ سُفْيَانَ، بِهَذَا الإِسْنَادِ نَحْوَهُ ‏.‏ قَالَ وَفِي الْبَابِ عَنْ سُلَيْمَانَ بْنِ صُرَدٍ قَالَ وَهَذَا حَدِيثٌ مُرْسَلٌ ‏.‏ عَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ أَبِي لَيْلَى لَمْ يَسْمَعْ مِنْ مُعَاذِ بْنِ جَبَلٍ مَاتَ مُعَاذٌ فِي خِلاَفَةِ عُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ وَقُتِلَ عُمَرُ بْنُ الْخَطَّابِ وَعَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ أَبِي لَيْلَى غُلاَمٌ ابْنُ سِتِّ سِنِينَ وَهَكَذَا رَوَى شُعْبَةُ عَنِ الْحَكَمِ عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ أَبِي لَيْلَى وَقَدْ رَوَى عَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ أَبِي لَيْلَى عَنْ عُمَرَ بْنِ الْخَطَّابِ وَرَآهُ وَعَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ أَبِي لَيْلَى يُكْنَى أَبَا عِيسَى وَأَبُو لَيْلَى اسْمُهُ يَسَارٌ وَرُوِيَ عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ أَبِي لَيْلَى قَالَ أَدْرَكْتُ عِشْرِينَ وَمِائَةً مِنَ الأَنْصَارِ مِنْ أَصْحَابِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Darussalam)

This hadith offers insight into the Islamic approach to managing anger. The advice given by the Prophet (ﷺ) is deeply rooted in the Quranic teachings. Here are some Quranic verses that relate to this hadith:

Relevance to the Quran

• Seeking Refuge from Shaitan:
• Surah Al-A'raf (7:200): "And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaitan, then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower." 
• This verse explicitly instructs believers to seek refuge in Allah when tempted by Shaitan, which can include moments of intense anger.
• Controlling Anger:
• Surah Al-Imran (3:134): "Who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good." 
• This verse praises those who restrain their anger and forgive others, showing the importance of controlling one's anger in Islam.
• Shaitan’s Influence: 
• Surah Al-Isra (17:53): "And say to My servants that they speak that which is best. Indeed, Shaitan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Shaitan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy." 
• This verse indicates that Shaitan seeks to sow discord among people, which can often manifest through anger and arguments.

Practical Application

• Managing Anger: The hadith provides a practical tool for managing anger by seeking refuge in Allah from Shaitan. This not only helps in calming down but also brings a spiritual perspective to the situation.
• Recognizing Shaitan’s Role: Understanding that Shaitan can influence our emotions and actions helps in addressing the root cause of anger. By seeking refuge in Allah, a believer acknowledges Shaitan’s role and takes a step towards self-control.

Spiritual and Psychological Benefits:

Reciting "A`ūdhu billāhi minash-shaiṭānir-rajīm" serves as a reminder of Allah’s presence and helps divert the mind from the immediate cause of anger to a more peaceful state. It’s a form of mindfulness and spiritual grounding.

The hadith narrated by Mu`adh bin Jabal emphasizes the importance of controlling anger and provides a specific method to achieve it through seeking refuge in Allah from Shaitan. This practice is supported by various Quranic teachings that highlight the virtues of restraint, the detrimental role of Shaitan, and the effectiveness of seeking Allah’s protection. By implementing this prophetic advice, a believer can achieve greater emotional control and spiritual well-being.

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: Pixabay

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.

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What are the prohibited timings for offering Obligatory and Voluntary prayers / As Salat

Man has been worshipping visible objects since time immemorial. These visible objects may take the shape of man made idols or celestial objects like the sun, moon or even the fire. But in Islam, and also like all Divine religions, the believers worship the unseen God, Who resembles like no other and is hidden from our eyes. Muslims, therefore, worship Allah, the One True God, five times a day with the belief that they are being watched and listened to by Allah.

However, the mode and timings of worship of Muslims differ from all others, even the people of the Book. And there is a reason for that. In Islam, there are specific times during the day when it is prohibited to perform Salat (prayer). These times are based on the movements of the sun and are avoided to prevent any resemblance to sun worship, which was a common practice in pre-Islamic times. Here are the three main times when Salat should not be offered.

The prohibition of offering Salat (prayer) during certain times of the day is rooted in both the Hadith (the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad) and, to some extent, can be inferred from the Quran. Here's an explanation of these timings and their basis in Islamic teachings:

Obligatory Prayers

Times when Obligatory prayers / Salat cannot be offered (in the light of Hadiths attributed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):

• When the Sun is Rising:
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray at the time of the rising of the sun or at the time of its setting."
• Reason: This time is avoided because it resembles the times when sun worshipers would worship the sun, thus preventing any similarity with their practices.
• When the Sun is at its Zenith (Midday):
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The sun rises between the two horns of Satan, and when it is at its zenith, Satan is present."
• Reason: This is a brief period when the sun is at its highest point in the sky before it begins to decline. Praying at this time is prohibited to distinguish Islamic practices from those of sun worshipers.
• When the Sun is Setting: 
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Do not pray at the time of the rising of the sun or at the time of its setting."
• Reason: This time is also avoided for the same reason as sunrise, to prevent any resemblance to sun worship.

Let us share the complete Hadith as mentioned in Sahi Muslim 612, wherein 'Abdullah b. 'Amr b. al-'As is quoted to have reported::

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked about the times of prayers. He said: The time for the morning prayer (lasts) as long as the first visible part of the rising sun does not appear and the time of the noon prayer is when the sun declines from the zenith and there is not a time for the afternoon prayer and the time for the afternoon prayer is so long as the sun does not become pale and its first visible part does not set, and the time for the evening prayer is that when the sun disappears and (it lasts) till the twilight is no more and the time for the night prayer is up to the midnight.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنِي أَحْمَدُ بْنُ يُوسُفَ الأَزْدِيُّ، حَدَّثَنَا عُمَرُ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ رَزِينٍ، حَدَّثَنَا إِبْرَاهِيمُ، - يَعْنِي ابْنَ طَهْمَانَ - عَنِ الْحَجَّاجِ، - وَهُوَ ابْنُ حَجَّاجٍ - عَنْ قَتَادَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي أَيُّوبَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ عَمْرِو بْنِ الْعَاصِ، أَنَّهُ قَالَ سُئِلَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم عَنْ وَقْتِ الصَّلَوَاتِ فَقَالَ ‏ "‏ وَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْفَجْرِ مَا لَمْ يَطْلُعْ قَرْنُ الشَّمْسِ الأَوَّلُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الظُّهْرِ إِذَا زَالَتِ الشَّمْسُ عَنْ بَطْنِ السَّمَاءِ مَا لَمْ يَحْضُرِ الْعَصْرُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْعَصْرِ مَا لَمْ تَصْفَرَّ الشَّمْسُ وَيَسْقُطْ قَرْنُهَا الأَوَّلُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْمَغْرِبِ إِذَا غَابَتِ الشَّمْسُ مَا لَمْ يَسْقُطِ الشَّفَقُ وَوَقْتُ صَلاَةِ الْعِشَاءِ إِلَى نِصْفِ اللَّيْلِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Additional Prohibited Times for Non-Obligatory Prayers:

• After the Fajr Prayer Until the Sun Rises:
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is no prayer after the Fajr prayer until the sun rises." (Sahih Bukhari 586, Sahih Muslim 612)
• Reason: To emphasize the importance of the obligatory Fajr prayer and to prevent any confusion with non-obligatory prayers.
• After the Asr Prayer Until the Sun Sets: 
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "There is no prayer after the Asr prayer until the sun sets." 
• Reason: To emphasize the importance of the obligatory Asr prayer and to prevent any confusion with non-obligatory prayers.

Inferences from the Quran:

While the Quran does not explicitly list these specific times, it provides general guidance about prayer times and emphasizes regularity and consistency in offering prayers. For instance, in Surah Al-Baqara (2:238), it mentions: "Guard strictly (five obligatory) As-Salat (the prayers) especially the middle Salat (i.e., the best prayer - 'Asr). And stand before Allah with obedience."

The specific prohibition of performing Salat during certain times is based primarily on the Hadith, reflecting the Prophet Muhammad's guidance to distinguish Islamic practices from those of sun worshipers and to maintain the sanctity of obligatory prayers. By adhering to these guidelines, Muslims ensure their prayers are offered in a manner that aligns with the prophetic traditions and avoids any association with non-Islamic practices.

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.

Photo | Source of Hadith:  Sahi Muslim 612a

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat - Prayers for more on As Salat.

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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Beware! Do not take Mortals as allies instead of Allah - The One True God

No master of a house would tolerate anyone else meddling with the affairs of his household, nor he would like any member of his household seeking advice or help from others bypassing him, thus challenging his authority. Likewise, how can God, the sole Creator of the Universe, the Omnipotent and the unchallenged Master of the Heavens and earth who created all the living organism and the entire celestial universe tolerate anyone taking human beings as their allies rather than Him. 

In verse 102 of Surah Al-Kahf (18:102) Allah warns disbelievers, and even the believers, who seek help from others and take them their allies other than One True God :

اَفَحَسِبَ الَّذِيۡنَ كَفَرُوۡۤا اَنۡ يَّتَّخِذُوۡا عِبَادِىۡ مِنۡ دُوۡنِىۡۤ اَوۡلِيَآءَ​ ؕ اِنَّاۤ اَعۡتَدۡنَا جَهَـنَّمَ لِلۡكٰفِرِيۡنَ نُزُلًا‏ 

"Do those who disbelieve think that they can take My servants instead of Me as allies? Indeed, We have prepared Hell as a lodging for the disbelievers."

This is the conclusion of the whole Surah and is connected with the subject matter of this Surah as a whole. The theme was enunciated at the beginning of the (Surah Ayats 1-8): The Prophet (peace be upon him) invited his people. (1) To give up shirk and adopt the doctrine of Tauhid instead. (2) To give up the worship of the world and to believe in the life of the Hereafter. But the chiefs of his people, who were puffed up with their wealth and grandeur, not only rejected his invitation but also persecuted and insulted those righteous people who had accepted his invitation. 

It is disheartening to see people, many believers included, still follow the deities other than Allah for the realization of their wants and to redress their grievances. We see people calling their deities as Problem Solvers, Helpers, Provider of means of sustenance. This is tantamount to shirk, asking mortals or even the dead, rather the Sole Provider of means of sustenance, Helper and Redressing grievances. While the non Muslims may do whatever they want and follow whomsoever they like, but it is unbecoming of believers to extend their hands in front of mortals instead of Allah.

Let us expand this verse and see how scholars interpret it:

Explanation and Context:

This verse serves as a strong warning to disbelievers who choose to ally themselves with others instead of Allah. It addresses the folly of relying on false deities, people, or entities for support and guidance in place of Allah.

• Disbelievers and False Allies: The verse begins with a rhetorical question highlighting the misguided belief of disbelievers who think they can find protection or help through allies other than Allah. This underscores the futility and danger of such alliances.
• Taking Servants as Allies: "My servants" in this context can refer to righteous people, prophets, or even angels whom disbelievers might mistakenly revere or rely on instead of Allah. The Quran condemns the practice of associating partners with Allah or seeking intermediaries.
• Consequence for Disbelievers: The verse concludes with a clear and stern warning: Hell has been prepared as a lodging for the disbelievers. This underscores the severe consequences of shirk (associating partners with Allah) and disbelief.

Related References from the Quran:

• Warning Against Shirk: The Quran frequently warns against associating partners with Allah. In Surah An-Nisa (4:48):

"Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin."

• False Deities and Intermediaries: The Quran rejects the notion of seeking help from others besides Allah. In Surah Al-Ahqaf (46:5):

"And who is more astray than he who invokes besides Allah those who will not respond to him until the Day of Resurrection, and they, of their invocation, are unaware."

• Consequences of Disbelief: The Quran emphasizes the severe punishment awaiting disbelievers in several verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:39): "And those who disbelieve and deny Our signs – those will be companions of the Fire; they will abide therein eternally."

Related References from Hadith:

• Reliance on Allah Alone: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized the importance of relying solely on Allah. In a hadith reported by Ibn Abbas, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"When you ask, ask Allah, and when you seek help, seek help from Allah. Know that if the nation were to gather together to benefit you with anything, it would benefit you only with something that Allah had already prescribed for you, and if they gather together to harm you with anything, they would harm you only with something Allah had already prescribed against you. The pens have been lifted and the pages have dried." (Jami' at-Tirmidhi)

• Severe Punishment for Disbelievers: In a hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"When the disbelievers (who will have hellfire as their abode) are gathered for reckoning on the Day of Judgment, they will be made to suffer from an unbearable thirst. They will ask for water, but their request will not be granted, and they will be dragged into the Fire." (Sahih Muslim)

Practical Lessons:

• Avoid Shirk: The verse serves as a reminder to avoid associating partners with Allah and to rely solely on Him for guidance and support.
• Recognize True Allies: Believers should recognize that their true ally is Allah alone. Seeking protection or help from false deities or intermediaries is not only futile but also leads to severe consequences.
• Heed the Warnings: The stern warning about Hell as a lodging for disbelievers underscores the importance of heeding divine guidance and avoiding actions that lead to such a dire fate.
• Strengthen Faith and Reliance on Allah: This verse and related references encourage believers to strengthen their faith and reliance on Allah, ensuring that their worship and supplications are directed solely towards Him.

In summary, Surah Al-Kahf (18:102) warns disbelievers against the folly of seeking allies other than Allah and highlights the severe consequences of such actions. The Quran and hadiths reinforce the importance of relying solely on Allah and avoiding shirk, emphasizing the severe punishment awaiting those who disbelieve and associate partners with Allah.

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 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. 

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.

Please refer to our exclusive page: Specific Subject: Faith in Allah for more on Faith in Allah as derived from verses of Qur'an and Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Additionally, yo may also refer to our Selected verses from Sūrahs of Qur'an to highlight important topics with detailed explanation and Reference Page on Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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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Nobody has ever eaten a better meal than earned by working with own hands (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The virtue of earning by one's own hands is highly emphasized in Islamic teachings, reflecting the value placed on hard work, self-reliance, and lawful earnings. Even prophets have been working with their own hands to earn a livelihood for their families. A wrinkled, charred and hardened hand is far better than an extended hand to beg to earn a living. 

However, this does not necessarily mean that one has to toil the earth or cut or lift heavy stones to earn a living. An work done by hands which fetches Halal income falls in the same category. 

We share today a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ which emphasises the need to earn one's own meal by working with own hands rather than doing nothing and begging people for food. The hadith narrated by Al-Miqdam, as recorded in Sahih Bukhari, says:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Nobody has ever eaten a better meal than that which one has earned by working with one's own hands. The Prophet (ﷺ) of Allah, David used to eat from the earnings of his manual labor."

This hadith highlights the superior quality of food and sustenance earned through personal effort and manual labor. It also sets a precedent by mentioning Prophet David, a revered figure who earned his livelihood through his craftsmanship. The above said Hadith is the continuation of expansion of Divine Commandments given in the Qur'an. Let us expand the Hadith:

Explanation in Light of the Quran

• Emphasis on Earning Lawfully: The Quran stresses the importance of earning a livelihood through lawful means and working hard.

"And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others. For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of His bounty. Indeed, Allah is ever, of all things, Knowing." Surah An-Nisa (4:32)

This verse emphasizes that everyone should strive to earn their livelihood through their own efforts and not covet what others have.

• Prophet David's Example:

"And We certainly gave David from Us bounty. [We said], 'O mountains, repeat [Our] praises with him, and the birds [as well].' And We made pliable for him iron, [Commanding him], 'Make full coats of mail and calculate [precisely] the links, and work [all of you] righteousness. Indeed I, of what you do, am Seeing.'" Surah Saba (34:10-11)

This verse highlights that Prophet David (Dawud) was blessed with the skill of working with iron, making coats of mail, and earning his livelihood through his labor.

• Importance of Honest Labor:

"Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear. It will have [the consequence of] what [good] it has gained, and it will bear [the consequence of] what [evil] it has earned. Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people."

This verse reinforces that each person is responsible for what they earn, whether good or bad, and emphasizes personal accountability and the value of honest work.

• Benefit of own efforts and endeavours:

"And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives." Surah An-Najm (53:39)

This verse emphasizes that human beings will only benefit from their own efforts and endeavors, underlining the importance of working hard and striving to earn a livelihood. 

Practical Implications

• Self-Sufficiency: The hadith encourages self-sufficiency and the dignity of labor. Muslims are encouraged to work hard and earn their livelihood through honest means rather than relying on others or unlawful sources.
• Value of Manual Labor: The example of Prophet David demonstrates that even prophets engaged in manual labor, highlighting its value and importance. This teaches humility and the nobility of all forms of honest work.
• Economic Justice: The Quran and hadith together promote economic justice by encouraging lawful earning and discouraging envy and covetousness. This helps create a fair and just society where everyone works for their share.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) himself worked as a shepherd and later engaged in trade before receiving prophethood. His life exemplifies the dignity and virtue of earning through honest and hard work.

The hadith thus underscores the virtue of earning one's livelihood through hard work and manual labor, exemplified by Prophet David. This principle is supported by various Quranic verses that emphasize lawful earning, personal accountability, and the dignity of honest labor. Together, these teachings encourage Muslims to value and engage in productive work, fostering a society built on fairness and self-sufficiency.

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 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.

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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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The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of the parents

The only pure, selfless, loving and unbreakable relation in a man's life is that of the parents. Right from the childbirth, parents play a very vital and central role in the upbringing of their chidden. Unlike many offspring of the animals who get on to their legs right after the birth, children of men needs constant care from day one to at least four to six years when they are finally able to walk on their own with confidence. Parents thus not only rear their children, they also provide a very intimate support, guidance and motivation to their children. No matter how old a child gets there's nothing more comforting and soothing than their parent's arms.

And of the parents, mother plays a very leading and dominating role right from the stage of conceiving, enduring the growing fetus for almost nine months and finally bearing the pain of labour. It is for this reason, both Qur'an and Hadiths lay more emphasis on the mother-child relationship than any other relation. The father plays his part by supporting the family being in the background, though his importance cannot be undermined. 

Therefore, Islam places significant emphasis on respecting and serving one's parents. Both the Quran and Hadith (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad) provide numerous instructions and examples highlighting the importance of honoring and caring for parents. Let us see the importance as highlighted in the Qur'an and Hadiths:

Quranic Teachings on Respect and Service to Parents

• Surah Al-Isra (17:23): 

"For your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And honour your parents. If one or both of them reach old age in your care, never say to them ˹even˺ ‘ugh,’ nor yell at them. Rather, address them respectfully."

• Surah Al-Isra (17:24): 

"And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.'"

These verses emphasize the importance of showing utmost respect, kindness, and humility towards parents, especially in their old age. The expression "uff" is a very mild form of annoyance, and even that is prohibited.

• Surah Luqman (31:14):

"And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination."

This verse highlights the hardship a mother endures and enjoins gratitude towards both parents.

• Surah Al-Ankabut (29:8):

"And We have enjoined upon man goodness to parents. But if they endeavor to make you associate with Me that of which you have no knowledge, do not obey them. To Me is your return, and I will inform you about what you used to do."

This verse instructs to maintain goodness to parents even if they try to compel one towards polytheism, while maintaining obedience to Allah.

Hadith on Respect and Service to Parents

• Narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (Sahih Bukhari):

"I asked the Prophet, 'Which deed is the dearest to Allah?' He replied, 'To offer the prayers at their early stated fixed times.' I asked, 'What is the next (in goodness)?' He replied, 'To be good and dutiful to your parents.' I further asked, 'What is the next (in goodness)?' He replied, 'To participate in Jihad (religious fighting) in Allah's cause.'"

This hadith places the duty towards parents immediately after the duty to perform prayers, highlighting its importance.

• Narrated by Abu Hurairah (Sahih Muslim):

"A man came to the Prophet and asked, 'Who is most deserving of my good companionship?' The Prophet said, 'Your mother.' The man said, 'Then who?' The Prophet said, 'Then your mother.' The man further asked, 'Then who?' The Prophet said, 'Then your mother.' The man asked again, 'Then who?' The Prophet said, 'Then your father.'"

This hadith emphasizes the high status of the mother in particular, mentioning her three times before the father.

• Narrated by Abdullah ibn Umar (Sunan Ibn Majah):

"The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of the parent. The anger of Allah lies in the anger of the parent."

This hadith indicates that one's treatment of their parents directly impacts their relationship with Allah.

• Narrated by Abu Darda (Abu Dawood):

"The Prophet said, 'The father is the middle gate to Paradise. It is up to you whether you take advantage of it or not.'"

This hadith suggests that honoring one's father can be a means of entering Paradise.

Both the Quran and the Hadith emphasize the importance of respecting and serving parents, stressing that this duty is second only to the worship of Allah. The guidance provided includes:

• Respectful Speech and Behavior: Avoid even mild expressions of annoyance.
• Humility and Kindness: Treat parents with humility and mercy, especially in their old age.
• Gratitude: Be thankful to parents for their sacrifices and care.
• Priority of Service: The mother, in particular, is given a high status, followed by the father.
• Spiritual Consequences: Good treatment of parents is linked to Allah's pleasure and a means to Paradise.

The beauty of parents' house is its openness 24/7. No matter the time of the day or night, the door to one's parents is never found shut. In there, there await an aging couple always waiting for their children to show up and are welcomed with the same warmth, kindness and live that has been there since the birth of their offspring. The scent of the fragrance of a mother is ever too strong and never fades. It is in the arms of the mother that children no matter how much grown fight solace and comfort. It is the embrace by the father and a fillip on the shoulder that gives confidence and motivation when the children feel weary from the difficulties and stresses of life. 

By following the guidance provided by Qur'an and Hadiths, Muslims are encouraged to maintain strong, respectful, and caring relationships with their parents, recognizing their vital role and the significant sacrifices they make. Remember, after the mother earth shrouds the parents forever, there remains no selfless relation in the world. Even brothers close their doors on the brothers. So let us take care of our parents for so long they live and try to return their love, though we cannot even an iota of it.

You may now like to watch an animated video by eminent Muslim scholar Nouman Ali Khan giving out a guideline on how to love and respect one's parents:

Remember "The pleasure of Allah lies in the pleasure of the parent. The anger of Allah lies in the anger of the parent." Let us seek pleasure of Allah by pleasing our parents and not invite the Divine wrath by annoying or displeasing our parents.

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.

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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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This life too shall Pass - Are we ready for the life of the Hereafter (Scholars' Viewpoint)

Most of us would have listened to elders telling us "This too shall pass." This too shall pass is an adage about impermanence of Persian origin. It reflects the temporary nature, or ephemerality, of the human condition. But you will be amazed to know that Qur'an too talks of the temporary nature of life and that it too shall pass and will be replaced with a permanent life of the hereafter. Let us read the 45th verse of Surah 18. Al Kahf and see how life is metaphorically referred to the foliage that grows when it rains, and then dries up to nothing when there are no rains.

The 45th verse of Surah Al-Kahf (18:45) reads:

وَٱضْرِبْ لَهُم مَّثَلَ ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا كَمَآءٍ أَنزَلْنَـٰهُ مِنَ ٱلسَّمَآءِ فَٱخْتَلَطَ بِهِۦ نَبَاتُ ٱلْأَرْضِ فَأَصْبَحَ هَشِيمًۭا تَذْرُوهُ ٱلرِّيَـٰحُ ۗ 

وَكَانَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىْءٍۢ مُّقْتَدِرًا

"And present to them the example of the life of this world: [It is] like rain which We send down from the sky, and the vegetation of the earth mingles with it and [then] it becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. And Allah is ever, over all things, Perfect in Ability."

Explanation:

The command to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to recite what has been revealed emphasizes the importance of conveying the divine message as it is, without alteration or omission. The Quran is the ultimate and final revelation from Allah, meant to guide humanity. It uses a powerful metaphor to describe the transient nature of the life of this world. Here is a detailed breakdown of its components and implications:

• Example of Rain and Vegetation: The verse starts by likening the life of this world to rain that Allah sends down from the sky. This rain causes vegetation to grow, symbolizing how worldly life flourishes temporarily. This imagery is also found in other parts of the Quran to illustrate the temporary and fleeting nature of worldly life.
• Growth and Flourishing: The vegetation that grows due to the rain represents the prosperity and abundance that people experience in their worldly lives. This growth is initially vibrant and lush, symbolizing the peak of worldly success and enjoyment.
• Decay and Transience: The verse then shifts to describe how this vegetation eventually becomes dry remnants, scattered by the winds. This symbolizes the inevitable decline and destruction of all worldly things. No matter how prosperous or beautiful something is, it will eventually fade away.
• Divine Power and Control: The verse concludes by reminding that Allah is ever capable over all things. This emphasizes that Allah has control over the cycles of growth and decay, prosperity and decline. It serves as a reminder of Allah’s omnipotence and the temporary nature of worldly life.

Context and Themes:

• Transience of Worldly Life: This metaphor is a recurrent theme in the Quran, where the transient nature of worldly life is often compared to natural phenomena like rain and vegetation. For example, in Surah Yunus (10:24):

"The example of [this] worldly life is but like rain which We have sent down from the sky that the plants of the earth absorb - [those] from which men and livestock eat - until, when the earth has taken on its adornment and is beautified and its people suppose that they have capability over it, there comes to it Our command by night or by day, and We make it as a harvest, as if it had not flourished yesterday. Thus do We explain in detail the signs for a people who give thought."

• Reminder of the Hereafter: By illustrating the temporary nature of this world, the verse implicitly encourages believers to focus on the hereafter, which is eternal. This is a common message in the Quran, urging people to seek lasting success and rewards in the life to come rather than being overly attached to the fleeting pleasures of this world.
• Reflection and Gratitude: The verse encourages reflection on the cycles of life and the natural world as signs of Allah’s power and wisdom. Recognizing the temporary nature of worldly life should lead to gratitude for Allah’s continuous blessings and a focus on righteous living.

Contextual Explanation:

• Revelation and Recitation: The command to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to recite what has been revealed emphasizes the importance of conveying the divine message as it is, without alteration or omission. The Quran is the ultimate and final revelation from Allah, meant to guide humanity.
• Immutability of Allah’s Words: The phrase "There is no changer of His words" asserts the divine protection and preservation of the Quran. Unlike other scriptures that may have been altered over time, the Quran remains unaltered and protected by Allah. This is reinforced in other verses, such as in Surah Al-Hijr (15:9):

"Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an and indeed, We will be its guardian."

This underscores the eternal nature and the unchanging truth of Allah’s words.

• Dependence on Allah: The verse concludes by reminding that no refuge or protection can be found except with Allah. This implies the necessity of reliance on Allah alone for guidance, protection, and support.

Reference to the Context in Surah Al-Kahf:

• Story of the Cave (Ashab al-Kahf): Surah Al-Kahf tells the story of the youths who sought refuge in a cave to escape persecution for their faith. This narrative underscores the theme of seeking refuge in Allah and trusting in His protection and guidance.

The immutable nature of Allah’s words also serves as a reassurance to believers that the Quran’s guidance is constant and reliable, unlike the changing circumstances of the world.

• Guidance and Warning: The earlier verses in Surah Al-Kahf provide guidance and warnings to humanity. Verse 18:27 emphasizes the necessity of adhering to the revealed guidance in the Quran for navigating through trials and temptations.
• Message to the Disbelievers: The verse also serves as a message to disbelievers who may seek to challenge or change the divine message. It affirms that no one has the power to alter Allah's words, thus asserting the Quran’s authority and authenticity.

Theological Implications:

• Finality and Preservation of the Quran: The verse reinforces the belief that the Quran is the final and preserved word of Allah. This is a cornerstone of Islamic theology, ensuring that Muslims have a reliable and unchanged source of guidance.
• Reliance on Allah: The reminder that there is no refuge other than Allah stresses the importance of tawakkul (reliance on Allah). Believers are encouraged to seek protection and guidance from Allah alone.
• Prophetic Responsibility: The command to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to recite the revelations emphasizes his role as the messenger and the integrity with which he conveyed Allah’s message. It highlights the responsibility of the Prophet (ﷺ) and, by extension, the responsibility of all believers to uphold and transmit the Quran accurately.

Practical Lessons:

• Detachment from Worldly Attachments: Believers are encouraged to detach themselves from excessive love for worldly possessions and pleasures, understanding that these are temporary and fleeting.
• Focus on Eternal Values: The verse serves as a reminder to prioritize eternal values and invest in actions that will bring lasting rewards in the hereafter.
• Gratitude and Reflection: Reflecting on the natural cycles and Allah’s power should inspire gratitude and a deeper appreciation for the blessings provided by Allah.
• Preparation for the Hereafter: Recognizing the temporary nature of worldly life should motivate believers to prepare for the hereafter through good deeds, seeking Allah’s pleasure, and living a righteous life.

In summary, Surah Al-Kahf (18:45) uses the metaphor of rain and vegetation to illustrate the fleeting nature of worldly life, reminding believers of the importance of focusing on the eternal life of the hereafter and acknowledging Allah’s ultimate power and control over all things.

Having read this explanation, now let us listen to an incredible explanation of this verse by one of the most eminent scholars of present times, Nouman Ali Khan:

About Nouman Ali Khan: Born to a Pakistani family, Nouman Ali Khan is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

Let us listen to this video again and again and really understand how Allah wants us to be His servants and how we should always be looking towards him, and no one else, for our worldly needs. If we can really Ingrid the meaning of this verse into ourselves, we will never go astray or be misled by worldly desires or following the priests and imams or asking from the dead saints.

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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 | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam. 

You may read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Compiled verses from Qur'an on specific subjects: Life

For compiled verses for more specific subjects, please refer to our exclusive reference page: "Selected verses from Al-Qurʾān about a specific subject." You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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