This week, we will review the 23rd hadith of the forty hadith of An-nawawih. For the past review, see here

On the authority of Abi malik al-Harith ibn Aasim al-Ash’ari (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: “The Messenger of Allah (sallaAllahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said:

“Purification is half of faith. The phrase al-Hamdulillah (‘All praise be to Allah’) fills the scale. The phrases Subhanallah (‘High is Allah above every imperfection and need; He is pure and perfect’) and al-Hamdulillah (‘All praise be to Allah’) together fill – or each fill – what is between the heavens and the earth. Prayer is a light. Charity is a proof. Patience is brightness. The Qur’an is either an argument for or against you. And everyone goes in the morning and sells himself, thereby setting himself free or destroying himself”

Recorded by Muslim

This hadith imparts several valuable lessons:

1. Importance of Purification: The hadith underscores that purification, both in a physical and spiritual sense, is a fundamental aspect of faith. It serves as a reminder that maintaining cleanliness and spiritual purity is a significant part of a Muslim's faith.

2. Magnitude of Gratitude: Expressing gratitude with phrases like "Al-Hamdulillah" (All praise be to Allah) holds tremendous weight in the sight of Allah. This teaches us the importance of recognizing and appreciating the blessings we receive.

3. Elevating Remembrance: The frequent remembrance of Allah through phrases like "Subhanallah" (High is Allah above every imperfection and need) and "Al-Hamdulillah" holds immense spiritual value. It emphasizes the significance of engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) regularly.

4. Prayer as Illumination: Prayer is described as light in this hadith. It teaches us that Salah is not merely a physical act but a source of spiritual illumination, guiding us in our daily lives.

5. Charity as Evidence: Giving to charity serves as proof of one's generosity and compassion. It highlights the importance of helping those in need and, in doing so, bearing witness to one's character.

6. The Virtue of Patience: Patience is likened to brightness, emphasizing its role in navigating life's challenges. It reminds us of the value of perseverance and steadfastness during difficult times.

7. The Qur'an's Dual Role: The Qur'an can be either an argument for or against an individual. This underscores the need to engage with the Qur'an, understand its teachings, and live in accordance with them.

8. Accountability and Self-Reflection: The statement that "everyone goes in the morning and sells himself" highlights the daily choices we make and their consequences. It serves as a reminder of personal accountability and the importance of self-reflection.

In conclusion, this hadith teaches us about the significance of purity, gratitude, remembrance, prayer, charity, patience, engagement with the Qur'an, and personal accountability in the life of a believer. It emphasizes the holistic nature of faith and its impact on both our individual and collective actions.

Jazaakallahu khayraa.