Hadith 1285
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: سئل رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم أي العمل أفضل؟ قال: "إيمان بالله ورسوله" قيل: ثم ماذا؟ قال: "الجهاد في سبيل الله" قيل: ثم ماذا؟ قال: "حج مبرور". ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked, "Which deed is the best?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Faith in Allah and His Messenger." He (ﷺ) was asked, "What is next?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Jihad (holy fighting) in the Cause of Allah." Then he was asked: "What is after that (in goodness)?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Hajj Mabrur (which is accepted by Allah)." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
When asked to rank the best deeds, the Prophet (peace be upon him) put faith first, then striving in Allah's cause, then an accepted Hajj. Right belief comes before everything, and good deeds build on it.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1285 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 1
Hadith 1286
Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن ابن مسعود، رضي الله عنه قال: قلت يا رسول الله أي العمل أحب إلى الله تعالى؟ قال: "الصلاة على وقتها" قلت: ثم أي؟ قال: "بر الوالدين" قلت ثم أي: قال: "الجهاد في سبيل الله" ((متفق عليه))
I asked the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ): "Which action is dearest to Allah?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Performing As-Salat (the prayer) at its earliest fixed time." I asked, "What is next (in goodness)?" He (ﷺ) said, "Kindness towards parents." I asked, "What is next (in goodness)?" He (ﷺ) said, "To participate in Jihad in the Cause of Allah." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Here the dearest deeds are listed as prayer offered at its proper time, then kindness to parents, then striving in Allah's cause. It shows how highly Allah values guarding the prayer and honouring one's parents.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1286 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 2
Hadith 1287
Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي ذر رضي الله عنه قال: قلت يا رسول الله أي العمل أفضل؟ قال: "الإيمان بالله والجهاد في سبيله" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked: "Which deed is the best?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Faith in Allah and Jihad (fighting, struggle) in the Cause of Allah." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
The best deeds named here are faith in Allah and striving in His cause. Belief and sincere effort for Allah are placed at the very top.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1287 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 3
Hadith 1288
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "لغدوة في سبيل الله أو روحة خير من الدنيا وما فيها" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Verily! Setting out in the early morning or in the evening in order to fight in Allah's way is better than the world and what it contains." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Setting out in Allah's cause, morning or evening, is described as worth more than the whole world and all it holds. It reminds us how small worldly gain is next to what Allah rewards.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1288 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 4
Hadith 1289
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي سعيد الخدري رضي الله عنه قال: أتى رجل رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم فقال: أي الناس أفضل؟ قال: "مؤمن يجاهد بنفسه وماله في سبيل الله" قال: ثم من؟ قال: "مؤمن في شعب من الشعاب يعبد الله ويدع الناس من شره" ((متفق عليه))
A man came to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and said, "Who is the best among men?" He (ﷺ) replied, "A believer who strives in the way of Allah with his wealth and life." The man asked again, "Who is next to him (in excellence)?" He (ﷺ) said, "Next to him is a man who is engaged in worshipping his Rubb in a mountain valley, leaving the people secure from his mischief." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
The best person is the believer who strives for Allah with wealth and life; next is the one who worships Allah quietly while harming no one. Both active service and harmless devotion are praised.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1289 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 5
Hadith 1290
Sahl bin Sa'd (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سهل بن سعد رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "رباط يوم في سبيل الله خير من الدنيا وما عليها، وموضع سوط أحدكم من الجنة خير من الدنيا وما عليها، والروحة يروحها العبد في سبيل الله تعالى، أو الغدوة خير من الدنيا وما عليها. ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Observing Ribat (e.g., guarding the Islamic frontier for the sake of Allah) for a single day is far better than the world and all that it contains. A place in Jannah as small as the whip of your horse is far better than the world and all that it contains. An endeavour (fighting) in the Cause of Allah in the evening or in the morning is far better than the world and all that it contains." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Guarding the frontier for Allah, even a place in Paradise as small as a whip, and striving in His cause are each said to outweigh the entire world. Such acts carry reward beyond anything earthly.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1290 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 6
Hadith 1291
Salman (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سلمان رضي الله عنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "رباط يوم وليلة خير من صيام شهر وقيامه، وإن مات فيه أجري عليه عمله الذي كان يعمل، وأجري عليه رزقه، وأمن الفتان" ((رواه مسلم)).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying, "Observing Ribat in the way of Allah for a day and a night is far better than observing Saum (fasting) for a whole month and standing in Salat (prayer) in all its nights. If a person dies (while performing this duty), he will go on receiving his reward for his meritorious deeds perpetually, and he will be saved from Al- Fattan." [Muslim].
In plain words
Standing guard for Allah a day and night is praised above a month of fasting and night prayer, and one who dies doing it keeps earning reward and is kept safe from the grave's trial. It honours those who protect the community.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1291 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 7
Hadith 1292
Fadalah bin 'Ubaid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن فضالة بن عبيد رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "كل ميت يختم على عمله إلا المرابط في سبيل الله فإنه ينمى له عمله إلى يوم القيامة، ويؤمن فتنة القبر” ((رواه أبو داود والترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The actions of every dead person come to a halt with his death except the one who is on the frontier in Allah's way (i.e., observing Ribat). This latter's deeds will be made to go on increasing for him till the Day of Resurrection, and he will be secure from the trials in the grave." [Abu Dawud and At- Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Most people's good deeds stop at death, but the one who dies guarding the frontier keeps earning reward until the Day of Resurrection and is secure from the trials of the grave. Faithful service to the community brings lasting reward.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1292 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 8
Hadith 1293
'Uthman (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن عثمان رضي الله عنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "رباط يوم في سبيل الله خير من ألف يوم فيما سواه من المنازل" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying: "Spending a day on the frontier in Allah's way is better than one thousand days in any other place." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
A single day guarding the frontier in Allah's cause is described as better than a thousand days spent elsewhere. It shows the great weight Allah gives to protecting the believers.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1293 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 9
Hadith 1294
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "تضمن الله لمن خرج في سبيله لا يخرجه إلا جهاد في سبيلي، وإيمان بي وتصديق برسلي فهو علي ضامن أن أدخله الجنة، أو أرجعه إلى منزله الذي خرج منه بما نال من أجر، أو غنيمة، والذي نفس محمد بيده ما من كلم يكلم في سبيل الله إلا جاء يوم القيامة كهيئته يوم كلم، لونه لون دم، وريحه ريح مسك، والذي نفس محمد بيده لولا أن يشق على المسلمين ما قعدت خلاف سرية تغزو في سبيل الله أبدا، ولكن لا أجد سعة فأحملهم ولا يجدون سعة عليهم أن يتخلفوا عني، والذي نفس محمد بيده لوددت أن أغزو في سبيل الله فأقتل، ثم أغزو فأقتل ثم أغزو فأقتل" ((رواه مسلم وروى البخاري بعضه)). (("الكلم" الجرح.))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Allah guarantees that he who goes out to fight in His way believing in Him and affirming the truth of His Messenger, will either be admitted to Jannah or will be brought back to his home (safely) from where he has set out, with whatever reward or share of booty he may have gained. By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, if a person is wounded in the way of Allah, he will come on the Day of Resurrection with his wound in the same condition as it was on the day when he received it; its colour will be the colour of blood but its smell will be the smell of musk. By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, if it were not to be too hard upon the Muslims, I would not lag behind any expedition to fight in the Cause of Allah, but I have neither abundant means to provide them conveyance (horses) nor all other Muslims have it, and it will be hard on them to remain behind when I go forth (for Jihad). By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, I love to fight in the way of Allah and get killed, to fight again and get killed and to fight again and get killed." [Muslim].
In plain words
Allah promises the sincere fighter either Paradise or a safe return with reward; the wound carried in His cause will smell of musk on the Day of Resurrection. The Prophet (peace be upon him) shows his own deep longing to give his life for Allah.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1294 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 10
Hadith 1295
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه قال: قال: رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم "ما من مكلوم يكلم في سبيل الله إلا جاء يوم القيامة، وكلمه يدمي اللون لون دم، والريح ريح مسك: ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Whoever is wounded while fighting in the way of Allah, will come on the Day of Resurrection with blood oozing from his wound having the colour of blood but with the fragrance of musk." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Whoever is wounded striving in Allah's cause will rise on the Day of Resurrection with the wound still bleeding, its colour blood but its scent musk. Sacrifice for Allah is honoured before all creation.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1295 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 11
Hadith 1296
Muadh (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن معاذ رضي الله عنه عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من قاتل في سبييل الله من رجل مسلم فواق ناقة وجبت له الجنة، ومن جرح جرحًا في سبيل الله أو نكب نكبة فإنها تجيء يوم القيامة كأغزر ما كانت: لونها الزعفران، وريحها كالمسك" ((رواه أبو داود والترمذي وقال: حديث حسن)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Jannah becomes incumbent for a Muslim who fights for the Cause of Allah for a period as long as the time between two consecutive turns of milking a she-camel. He who receives a wound or a bruise in the Cause of Allah will appear on the Day of Resurrection as fresh as possible, its colour will be the colour of saffron and its fragrance will be that of musk." [At-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud].
In plain words
Paradise is assured for the one who fights sincerely for Allah even briefly, and a wound taken in His cause will appear bright and fragrant on the Day of Resurrection. Even a short, sincere effort for Allah is precious to Him.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1296 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 12
Hadith 1297
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: مر رجل من أصحاب رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم بشعب فيه عيينة من ماء عذبة فأعجبته، فقال: لو اعتزلت الناس فأقمت في هذا الشعب، ولن أفعل حتى استأذن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم فذكر ذلك لرسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم فقال: "لا تفعل فإن مقام أحدكم في سبيل الله أفضل من صلاته في بيته سبعين عامًا، ألا تحبون أن يغفر الله لكم ويدخلكم الجنة؟ اغزو في سبيل الله من قاتل في سبيل الله فواق ناقة وجبت له الجنة" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن)). (("والفواق": ما بين الحلبتين)).
One of the Prophet's Companions came upon a valley containing a rivulet of fresh water and was delighted by it. He reflected: 'I wish to withdraw from people and settle in this valley; but I won't do so without the permission of the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).' This was mentioned to the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and he said (to the man), "Do not do that, for when any of you remains in Allah's way, it is better for him than performing Salat (prayer) in his house for seventy years. Do you not wish that Allah should forgive you and admit you to Jannah? Fight in Allah's way, for he who fights in Allah's Cause as long as the time between two consecutive turns of milking a she-camel, will be surely admitted to Jannah." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
When a Companion wished to retreat into a peaceful valley to worship alone, the Prophet (peace be upon him) urged him instead toward striving in Allah's cause, which earns forgiveness and Paradise. Serving Allah among people can outweigh solitary devotion.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1297 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 13
Hadith 1298
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه قال قيل يا رسول الله: ما يعدل الجهاد في سبيل الله؟ قال: "لاتستطيعونه" فأعادوا عليه مرتين أو ثلاثًا كل ذلك يقول: "لاتستطيعونه!" ثم قال: "مثل المجاهد في سبيل الله كمثل الصائم القائم القانت بآيات الله لا يفتر: من صلاة ولا صيام، حتى يرجع المجاهد في سبيل الله" ((متفق عليه، وهذا لفظ مسلم)) . وفي رواية البخاري، أن رجلا قال: يا رسول الله دلني على عمل يعدل الجهاد؟ قال: "لا أجده" ثم قال: "هل تستطيع إذا خرج المجاهد أن تدخل مسجدك فتقوم ولا تفتر وتصوم ولا تفطر؟ فقال: ومن يستطيع ذلك؟!.
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked: "What other good deed could be an equivalent of Jihad in the way of Allah?" He (ﷺ) replied, "You do not have the strength to do it." (The narrator said:) The question was repeated twice or thrice, but every time he (ﷺ) answered, "You do not have the strength to do it." Then he (ﷺ) said, "One who goes out for Jihad in the Cause of Allah is like a person who observes Saum (fasting), stands in Salat (prayer) constantly, recites the Ayat of the Qur'an and does not exhibit any lassitude in fasting and prayer until the participant of Jihad in the way of Allah returns." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Asked what deed could equal striving in Allah's cause, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said no one has the strength to match it: it is like fasting and praying without pause the whole time the one striving is away. It shows how uniquely demanding and rewarded that effort is.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1298 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 14
Hadith 1299
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من خير معاش الناس لهم رجل ممسك بعنان فرسه في سبيل الله، يطير على متنه كلما سمع هيعة، أو فزعة طار على متنه، يبتغي القتل أو الموت مظانه، أو رجل في غنيمة أو شعفة من هذه الشعف أو بطن واد من هذه الأودية يقيم الصلاة ويؤتي الزكاة، ويعبد ربه حتى يأتيه اليقين ليس من الناس إلا في خير" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The best life is that of the man who holds his horse's rein in Allah's way and flies on its back to the places from whence he hears a war cry or the clatter of arms, seeking martyrdom or slaughter on the battlefield; or that of a person who goes to stay on the top of the hill or in a valley, and there he performs Salat (prayer), pays the Zakat and worships his Rubb till death overtakes him. He has no concern with the affairs of anyone except the doing of good." [Muslim].
In plain words
The best lives are two: the one always ready to ride out at any alarm seeking to give his life for Allah, and the one who quietly worships, prays, gives charity, and does only good until death. Both wholehearted devotion and steady worship are praised.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1299 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 15
Hadith 1300
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "إن في الجنة مائة درجة أعدها للمجاهدين في سبيل الله ما بين الدرجتين كما بين السماء والأرض" ((رواه البخاري)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "In Jannah there are a hundred grades which Allah has prepared for those who fight in His Cause; and the distance between any two of those grades is like the distance between the heaven and the earth." [Al-Bukhari].
In plain words
In Paradise there are a hundred ranks prepared for those who strive in Allah's cause, each as far above the next as the sky is from the earth. The reward for such striving is immense.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1300 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 16
Hadith 1301
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي سعيد الخدري رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من رضي بالله ربًا وبالإسلام دينًا، وبمحمد رسولا وجبت له الجنة" فعجب لها أبو سعيد فقال أعدها علي يا رسول الله فأعادها عليه ثم قال: "وأخرى يرفع الله بها العبد مائة درجة في الجنة، ما بين كل درجتين، كما بين السماء والأرض" قال: وما هي يا رسول الله؟ قال: "الجهاد في سبيل الله، الجهاد في سبيل الله" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "If anyone is pleased with Allah as his Rubb, with Islam as his religion and with Muhammad (ﷺ) as (Allah's) Messenger, surely, he will be entitled to enter Jannah." Abu Sa'id was delighted with this and requested the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) to repeat it. He (ﷺ) repeated it again and then said, "There is also another act by which Allah will elevate the position of a (pious believing) slave in Jannah to a grade one hundred degrees higher. And the distance between any two grades is equal to the distance between heaven and earth." He asked the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) what it was and he ((ﷺ)) replied, "Jihad in the way of Allah; Jihad in the way of Allah." [Muslim].
In plain words
Being content with Allah, Islam, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) earns Paradise; striving in Allah's cause can raise a believer a hundred grades higher still. Sincere contentment with faith, joined to striving, lifts a person greatly.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1301 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 17
Hadith 1302
Abu Bakr bin Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari reported:
وعن أبي بكر بن أبي موسى الأشعري، قال: سمعت أبي رضي الله عنه وهو بحضرة العدو، يقول قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم "إن أبواب الجنة تحت ظلال السيوف" فقام رجل رث الهيئة فقال يا أبا موسى أأنت سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول هذا؟ قال: نعم، فرجع إلى أصحابه، فقال: "اقرأ عليكم السلام" ثم كسر جفن سيفه فألقاه، ثم مشى بسيفه إلى العدو فضرب به حتى قتل" ((رواه مسلم)).
I heard my father saying in the presence of the enemy: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The gates of Jannah are under the shades of the swords." A man with a shaggy appearance got up and said, "O Abu Musa! Did you hear the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say that in person?" Abu Musa replied in the affirmative; so he returned to his companions and said: "I tender you farewell greetings." Then he broke the scabbard of his sword and threw it away. He rushed towards the enemy with his sword and fought with it till he was martyred. [Muslim].
In plain words
Told that Paradise lies under the shade of the swords, one Companion took it to heart at once, bid farewell, and gave his life fighting. It shows how firm conviction can move a believer to act without hesitation.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1302 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 18
Hadith 1303
Abu 'Abs 'Abdur-Rahman bin Jabr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي عبس عبد الرحمن بن جبير، رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "ما اغبرت قدما عبد في سبيل الله فتمسه النار" ((رواه البخاري)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "It will not happen that the feet soiled with dust while (doing Jihad) in the way of Allah, will be touched by the fire (of Hell)." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
Feet that gather dust while striving in Allah's cause will never be touched by the Fire. Effort and hardship borne for Allah protect a person from punishment.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1303 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 19
Hadith 1304
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) said:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "لا يلج النار رجل بكي من خشية الله حتى يعود اللبن في الضرع، ولا يجتمع على عبد غبار في سبيل الله ودخان جهنم" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "No one who weeps out of Fear of Allah will enter Hell until milk recedes to the udder, and the dust endured while striving in the Cause of Allah and the smoke of Hell will never subsist together." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Two things will not meet in one person: weeping from fear of Allah, and the Fire; nor the dust of striving for Allah and the smoke of Hell. Heartfelt fear of Allah and sincere effort guard against the Fire.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1304 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 20
Hadith 1305
Ibn 'Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن ابن عباس، رضي الله عنهما قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: “عينان لا تمسهما النار عين بكت من خشية الله، وعين باتت تحرس في سبيل الله" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن. )).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying, "Two eyes will never be touched by the fire of Hell; an eye which weeps out of Fear of Allah and an eye which spends the night in guarding in the Cause of Allah." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Two kinds of eyes are kept safe from the Fire: the eye that weeps from fear of Allah and the eye that stays awake guarding in His cause. Both private devotion and watchful service are honoured.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1305 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 21
Hadith 1306
Zaid bin Khalid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن زيد بن خالد، رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من جهز غازيًا في سبيل الله فقد غزا ومن خلف غازيا في أهله بخير فقد غزا" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who equips a Ghazi (fighter) in the way of Allah is as if he has taken part in the fighting himself; and he who looks after the dependants of a Ghazi in his absence, is as if he has taken part in the fighting himself." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
The one who equips a fighter, or cares for the fighter's family in his absence, shares the reward as though he fought himself. Supporting those who serve carries the same reward as serving.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1306 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 22
Hadith 1307
Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي أمامة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "أفضل الصدقات ظل فسطاط في سبيل الله، ومنيحة خادم في سبيل الله، أو طروقة فحل في سبيل الله" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The best of charities is to provide canopy in the Cause of Allah, to pay wages to a servant in the way of Allah, and to provide a camel in the way of Allah (to be used by a Mujahid)." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Among the best charities is providing shelter, paying a worker, or giving a mount for Allah's cause. Helping the means of striving is counted as the finest giving.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1307 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 23
Hadith 1308
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه أن فتى من أسلم قال: يا رسول الله إني أريد الغزو وليس معي ما أتجهز به، قال: "ائت فلانًا، قد كان تجهز فمرض فأتاه فقال: إن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقرئك السلام ويقول: أعطني الذي تجهزت به قال: يا فلانة أعطيه، الذي كنت تجهزت به ولاتحبسي منه شيئًا فوالله لا تحبسي منه شيئًا فيبارك لك فيه ((رواه مسلم)).
A young man from the Aslam tribe said: "O Messenger of Allah! I would very much like to fight in the way of Allah but I do not have anything with which to equip myself for fighting." The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Go to so-and-so, for he had equipped himself (for fighting) but he fell ill." So, he (the young man) went to him and said: "The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) sends you his greetings and says that you should hand over to me the equipment that you have procured." The man said to his wife: "Give him the equipment which I have collected for myself and do not withhold anything from him. By Allah! Allah won't bless something you withheld (in this respect)." [Muslim].
In plain words
A young man who lacked the means to equip himself was sent to one who had gear but had fallen ill, and that man gladly gave it all, warning that withholding it would lose Allah's blessing. Sincere giving for Allah's cause is met with open generosity.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1308 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 24
Hadith 1309
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي سعيد الخدري رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم بعث إلى بني لحيان، فقال: "لا ينبعث من كل رجلين أحدهما، والأجر بينهما" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) sent an expedition to Banu Lahyan and said, "One man from every two should join the fighting force, and the reward will be shared amongst them equally." [Muslim]. Another narration in Muslim is: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Let one of every two men go forth", and added: "Whoever stays behind (and looks well after the family and the property of those who have joined the expedition) will get half the reward of the warrior."
In plain words
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) sent out a force, one of every two men went to fight while the other stayed to care for their families, and both shared the reward. Those who hold the home front share in the reward of those who go.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1309 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 25
Hadith 1310
Al-Bara (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن البراء رضي الله عنه قال أتى النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم رجل مقنع بالحديد، فقال يا رسول الله أقاتل أو أسلم؟ قال: "أسلم، ثم قاتل" فأسلم، ثم قاتل فقتل، فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : عمل قليلا وأُجر كثيرًا" ((متفق عليه وهذا لفظ البخاري)) .
A man equipped with arms came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and asked: "O Messenger of Allah! Should I go and fight or should I embrace Islam first?" He (ﷺ) replied, "Enter in the fold of Islam and then fight." He embraced Islam and fought until he was killed. Thereupon the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He accepted Islam for a short time but was rewarded much." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
A man asked whether to fight or accept Islam first; told to enter Islam first, he did so, fought, and was killed, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) said his small deed earned great reward. Faith must come first, and Allah rewards it richly.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1310 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 26
Hadith 1311
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "ما أحد يدخل الجنة يحب أن يرجع إلى الدنيا وله ما على الأرض من شيء إلا الشهيد، يتمنى أن يرجع إلى الدنيا فيقتل عشر مرات لما يرى من الكرامة”
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "No one who has entered Jannah will desire to return to this world even if he should be given all that the world contains, except a martyr. For he will yearn that he should return to the world and be killed ten times on account of the dignity that he will experience by virtue of his martyrdom." Another narration is: "On account of the excellence and distinction, he will experience as a result of martyrdom." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
No one in Paradise wishes to return to this world, except the martyr, who longs to come back and be killed again and again because of the honour he finds. It shows the immense dignity Allah grants those who die in His cause.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1311 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 27
Hadith 1312
'Abdullah bin 'Amr bin Al-'As (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن عبد الله بن عمرو بن العاص رضي الله عنهما أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "يغفر الله للشهيد كل شيء إلا الدين" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Allah forgives every sin of a martyr, except his debt." [Muslim]. Another narration in Muslim is: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Being martyred in the Cause of Allah expiates for everything, except debt."
In plain words
All the sins of one martyred in Allah's cause are forgiven, except outstanding debt. It reminds us how seriously the rights owed to other people are treated.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1312 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 28
Hadith 1313
Abu Qatadah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي قتادة رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قام فيهم فذكر أن الجهاد في سبيل الله والإيمان بالله أفضل الأعمال فقام رجل فقال يا رسول الله أرأيت إن قتلت في سبيل الله أتكفر عني خطاياي؟ فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "نعم إن قتلت في سبيل الله وأنت صابر محتسب مقبل غير مدبر" ثم قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "كيف قلت؟" قال: أرأيت إن قتلت في سبيل الله أتكفر عني خطاياي؟ فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم "نعم وأنت صابر محتسب مقبل غير مدبر إلا الدين فإن جبريل عليه السلام قال لي ذلك" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) stood up among his Companions and said, "Jihad in the way of Allah and belief in Allah (with all His Attributes) are the most meritorious of actions." A man stood up and said: "O Messenger of Allah! Inform me if I am killed in the way of Allah, will my sins be blotted out?" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Yes, in case you are killed in the way of Allah and you remained patient, hopeful of reward, and advancing forward without retracing back (i.e., while fighting)." Then he said, "What was your question?" He inquired again: "Inform me, if I am killed in the way of Allah, will all my sins be blotted out?" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) replied, "If you remained patient, hopeful of reward and always fought without turning your back upon enemy, everything, except debt, will be forgiven. Jibril has told me this." [Muslim].
In plain words
Asked whether dying in Allah's cause wipes out sins, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said yes, if one is patient and sincere and does not flee, though debt remains. Sincere, steadfast sacrifice is forgiven, but the rights of others must still be settled.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1313 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 29
Hadith 1314
Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن جابر رضي الله عنه قال: قال رجل: أين أنا يا رسول الله إن قتلت؟ قال: “في الجنة " فألقى تمرات كن في يده ثم قاتل حتى قتل" ((رواه مسلم)).
A man asked the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ): "Tell me where I will be if I am killed while fighting in the way of Allah?" He (ﷺ) replied, "In Jannah." The man threw away the few dates which he had in his hand, jumped into the battlefield and fought on till he was killed. [Muslim]
In plain words
Told he would be in Paradise if killed striving for Allah, a man at once threw aside his dates and fought until he died. Certainty about Allah's promise can move a believer to act without delay.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1314 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 30
Hadith 1315
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه قال انطلق رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم وأصحابه حتى سبقوا المشركين إلى بدر وجاء المشركون، فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "لا يقدمن أحد منكم إلى شيء حتى أكون أنا دونه" فدنا المشركون، فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "قوموا إلى جنة عرضها السماوات والأرض" قال: يقول عمير بن الحمام الأنصاري رضي الله عنه: يا رسول الله جنة عرضها السماوات والأرض؟ قال: "نعم" قال: بخ بخ! فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: “ما يحملك على قولك بخ بخ" قال فإنك من أهلها فأخرج تمرات من قرنه فجعل يأكل منهن، ثم قال لئن أنا حييت حتى آكل تمراتي هذه إنها لحياة طويلة! فرمى بما كان معه من التمر، ثم قاتلهم حتى قتل" ((رواه مسلم)). (4)
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and his Companions reached Badr before the polytheists, and when they arrived, he (ﷺ) directed: "Let no one of you advance ahead of me." When the polytheists came near, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Now stand up and proceed towards Jannah which is as wide as are the heavens and the earth." 'Umair bin Al-Humam (May Allah be pleased with him) asked: "Is Jannah as wide as are the heaven and the earth?" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) replied in the affirmative. 'Umair remarked: "Great!" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) asked him what had urged him to say so. He replied: "Nothing, O Messenger of Allah! But hope that I might become one of the inhabitants of Jannah." The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "You will definitely be among them." 'Umair then took some dates out of his quiver and began to eat them, but after a short time he said: "If I survive till I eat my dates, it will mean a long life." So he threw away the dates which he had with him and then fought with the enemy till he was killed. [Muslim].
In plain words
Before the battle, hearing that Paradise is as wide as the heavens and the earth, a Companion threw away the dates he was eating and fought until he was killed, eager to reach it. Longing for Paradise can outweigh every attachment to this life.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1315 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 31
Hadith 1316
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه قال: جاء ناس إلى النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم أن ابعث معنا رجالا يعلمونا القرآن والسنة فبعث إليهم سبعين رجلا من الأنصار يقال لهم: القراء، فيهم خالي حرام، يقرءون القرآن ويتدارسونه بالليل يتعلمون، وكانوا بالنهار يجيئون بالماء فيضعونه في المسجد، ويحتطبون فيبيعونه، ويشترون به الطعام لأهل الصفة، وللفقراء فبعثهم صلى الله عليه وسلم فعرضوا لهم فقتلوهم قبل أن يبلغوا المكان، فقالوا: اللهم بلغ عنا نبينا أن قد لقيناك فرضينا عنك ورضيت عنا، وأتى رجل حراما خال أنس من خلف فطعنه برمح حتى أنفذه، فقال حرام: فزت ورب الكعبة، فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم "إن إخوانكم قد قتلوا وإنهم قالوا: اللهم بلغ عنا نبينا أنا قد لقيناك فرضينا عنك ورضيت عنا" ((متفق عليه وهذا لفظ مسلم)).
Some people came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said to him: "Send with us some men who may teach us the Qur'an and the Sunnah." He (ﷺ) sent seventy men from the Ansar. They were called Al-Qurra' (the reciters) and among them was my maternal uncle, Haram. They used to recite the Qur'an, ponder over its meaning and learn (its wisdom) at night. In the day, they used to bring water and pour it in pitchers in the mosque, then they would collect wood and sell it; and with the sale proceeds, they would buy food for the people of As-Suffah and the needy. The Prophet (ﷺ) sent the reciters with these people but these (treacherous people) fell upon them and killed them before they reached their destination. (While dying) they supplicated: "O Allah convey from us the news to our Prophet that we have met You (in a way), that we are pleased with You and You are pleased with us." (The narrator said:) A man attacked Haram from behind and smote him with a spear which pierced him. Whereupon Haram said: "By the Rubb of Ka'bah, I have met with success. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said to his Companions, "Your brethren have been slain and they were saying: "O Allah! Convey from us to our Prophet the news that we have met You (in a way) that we are pleased with You and You are pleased with us." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Teachers sent to instruct people in the Qur'an and Sunnah were treacherously killed, and as they died they were content with Allah and He with them. It honours those who give their lives spreading knowledge and shows the peace of a soul pleased with Allah.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1316 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 32
Hadith 1317
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه قال: غاب عمي أنس بن النضر رضي الله عنه عن قتال بدر، فقال: يا رسول الله غبت عن أول قتال قاتلت الشركين لئن الله أشهدني قتال المشركين ليرين الله ما أصنع. فلما كان يوم أحد انكشف المسلمون، فقال اللهم إني اعتذر إليك مما صنع هؤلاء - يعني الصحابة- وأبرأ إليك مما صنع هؤلاء يعني المشركين- ثم تقدم فاستقبله سعد بن معاذ فقال: يا سعد بن معاذ الجنة ورب النضر، إني أجد ريحها من دون أحد! قال سعد: فما استطعت يا رسول الله ما صنع! قال أنس: فوجدنا به بضعًا وثمانين ضربة بالسيف، أو طعنة برمح أو رمية بسهم، ووجدناه قد قتل ومثل به المشركون، فما عرفه أحد إلا أخته ببنانه، قال أنس: كنا نرى -أو نظن- أن هذه الآية نزلت فيه وفي أشباهه: {من المؤمنين رجال صدقوا ما عاهدوا الله عليه فمنهم من قضى نحبه} إلى آخره ((الأحزاب 23)). ((متفق عليه)) وقد سبق في باب المجاهدة.
My uncle Anas bin An- Nadr (May Allah be pleased with him) was absent from the battle of Badr. He said: "O Messenger of Allah! I was absent from the first battle you fought against the pagans. (By Allah!) if Allah gives me a chance to fight against the pagans, no doubt, Allah will see how (bravely) I will fight." On the Day of Uhud, when the Muslims turned their backs and fled, he said, "O Allah! I apologize to You for what these (i.e., his companions) have done, and I denounce what these (i.e., the pagans) have done." Then he advanced and Sa'd bin Mu'adh met him. He said: "O Sa'd bin Mu'adh! By the Rubb of An-Nadr, Jannah! I am smelling its aroma coming from before (the mountain of) Uhud," Later on, Sa'd said: "O Messenger of Allah! I cannot achieve or do what he (i.e., Anas bin An-Nadr) did. We found more than eighty wounds by swords, spears and arrows on his body. We found him dead and his body was mutilated so badly that none except his sister could recognise him by his finger." We used to think that the following Ayah was revealed concerning him and other men of his sort: "Among the believers are men who have been true to their covenant with Allah (i.e., they have gone out for Jihad, and showed not their backs to the disbelievers), of them some have fulfilled their obligations (i.e., have been martyred)." (:).
In plain words
A Companion who had missed an earlier battle vowed to show his sincerity, and at the next fought until he fell with over eighty wounds, recognised only by his sister. It shows wholehearted truthfulness in keeping one's commitment to Allah.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1317 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 33
Hadith 1318
Samurah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سمرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : “رأيت الليلة رجلين أتياني فصعدا بي الشجرة وأدخلاني دارًا هي أحسن وأفضل، لم أر قط أحسن منها، قال أما هذه الدار فدار الشهداء" (5)
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Last night two men (angels) came to me (in a dream) and made me ascend a tree and then admitted me into a nice and excellent house, the like of which I have never seen before. One of them said: 'This house is the house of martyrs'." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
In a dream the Prophet (peace be upon him) was shown a beautiful house beyond anything he had seen, and was told it was the house of the martyrs. It points to the surpassing reward awaiting those who give their lives for Allah.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1318 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 34
Hadith 1319
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه أن أم الربيع بنت البراء وهي أم حارثة بن سراقة أتت النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فقالت: يا رسول الله ألا تحدثني عن حارثة. وكان قتل يوم بدر، فإن كان في الجنة صبرت، وإن كان غير ذلك اجتهدت عليه في البكاء، فقال: "يا أم حارثة إنها جنان في الجنة، وإن ابنك أصاب الفردوس الأعلى" ((رواه البخاري)).
Umm Ar-Rubaiy'i bint Al-Bara', who was the mother of Harithah bin Suraqah, came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said: "O Messenger of Allah! Will you not tell me about Harithah? (He was killed in the battle of Badr). If he is in Jannah I shall show endurance, but if he has met another fate, I may exert myself in weeping for him." He (ﷺ) replied, "O mother of Harithah, in in the gardens of Jannah there are many ranks, and your son has attained Al-Firdaus, the highest." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
A grieving mother was reassured that her son had reached Al-Firdaus, the highest part of Paradise. It offers comfort that loss in Allah's cause is met with the greatest honour.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1319 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 35
Hadith 1320
Jabir bin 'Abdullah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن جابر بن عبد الله رضي الله عنهما قال: جيء بأبي إلى النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قد مثل به فوضع بين يديه، فذهبت أكشف عن وجهه فنهاني قوم فقال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم: "ما زالت الملائكة تظله بأجنحتها” ((متفق عليه)).
The dead body of my father, who was mutilated by the enemy, was brought and placed before the Prophet (ﷺ). I got up to uncover his face but the people stopped me, and the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The angels continue to cover him with their wings." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
When a martyr's body was brought, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said the angels kept shading him with their wings. Allah honours those who die in His cause even in death.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1320 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 36
Hadith 1321
Sahl bin Hunaif (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سهل بن حنيف رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من سأل الله تعالى الشهادة بصدق بلغه الله منازل الشهداء وإن مات على فراشه" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who supplicates Allah sincerely for martyrdom, Allah will elevate him to the station of the martyrs, even if he dies on his bed." [Muslim].
In plain words
Whoever sincerely asks Allah for martyrdom will be raised to the rank of the martyrs, even if he dies in his bed. A true, heartfelt intention can earn the reward of the deed itself.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1321 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 37
Hadith 1322
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "من طلب الشهادة صادقًا أعطيها ولو لم تصبه" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who supplicates sincerely for martyrdom, it will be granted to him even though he is not killed on the battlefield." [Muslim].
In plain words
One who sincerely prays for martyrdom is granted its reward even if he is never killed in battle. Allah rewards the honest longing of the heart.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1322 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 38
Hadith 1323
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "ما يجد الشهيد من مس القتل إلا كما يجد أحدكم من مس القرصة" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The martyr experiences no more pain in being slain than one of you experiences from the stinging of an ant." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
The martyr feels no more pain in being slain than the small sting of an ant. It eases the fear of such a death by showing how light Allah makes it.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1323 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 39
Hadith 1324
'Abdullah bin Abu Aufa (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن عبد الله بن أبي أوفى رضي الله عنهما أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم في بعض أيامه التي لقي فيها العدو انتظر حتى مالت الشمس، ثم قام في الناس فقال: " أيها الناس، لا تتمنوا لقاء العدو، وسلو الله العافية، فإذا لقيتموه فاصبروا، واعلموا أن الجنة تحت ظلال السيوف" ثم قال: "اللهم منزل الكتاب ومجري السحاب، وهازم الأحزاب اهزمهم وانصرنا عليهم" ((متفق عليه))
On one occasion the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was confronting the enemy. He waited until the sun had declined. Then he stood up to address the people and said, "O people! Do not wish for an encounter with the enemy. Pray to Allah to grant you safety; (but) when you encounter them, show patience, and know that Jannah is under the shades of the swords." Then he (ﷺ) said: "Allahumma munzilal-kitab, wa mujriyas- sahab, wa hazimal-Ahzab, ihzimhum wansurna alaihim (O Allah, Revealer of the Book, Disperser of the clouds, Defeater of the Confederates, put our enemy to rout and support us against them)." [Al- Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught his people not to wish to face the enemy but to ask Allah for safety, and to be patient when tested, then he turned to Allah in prayer for help and victory. Humility and reliance on Allah come before any confrontation.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1324 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 40
Hadith 1325
Sahl bin Sa'd (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سهل بن سعد رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم "ثنتان لا تردان، أو قلما تردان: الدعاء عند النداء وعند البأس حين يلحم بعضهم بعضًا" ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد صحيح)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Supplications at two times are never turned down (or said, "Are seldom turned down"), a supplication after the Adhan has been proclaimed, and a supplication during the battle combating the enemy." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
Two moments when prayers are rarely refused are after the call to prayer and during the heat of battle. Times of devotion and times of trial are especially open to Allah's answer.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1325 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 41
Hadith 1326
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه قال: كان رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم إذا غزا قال: "اللهم أنت عضدي ونصيري، بك أحول وبك أجول وبك أصول، وبك أقاتل" ((رواه أبو داود، والترمذي وقال: حديث حسن)).
Whenever the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) set out to participate in Jihad, he would supplicate: "Allahumma Anta 'adudi wa nasiri, bika ahulu, wa bika asulu, wa bika uqatilu (O Allah, You are my Supporter and my Helper. With Your help I get strength, and with Your help I bounce upon the enemy and defeat it, and with Your help I fight)." [Abu Dawud and At- Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Setting out to strive, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would pray that Allah alone was his support, his strength, and his helper. True success is sought from Allah, not from one's own power.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1326 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 42
Hadith 1327
Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي موسى، رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم كان إذا خاف قومًا قال: اللهم إنا نجعلك في نحورهم، ونعوذ بك من شرورهم". ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد صحيح)).
When the Prophet (ﷺ) had any fear of an enemy, he used to supplicate: "Allahumma inna naj'aluka fi nuhurihim, wa na'udhu bika min shururihim (O Allah! We put You in front of them, and we seek refuge in You from their evils)." [Ahmad and Abu Dawud].
In plain words
When he feared an enemy, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would place his trust in Allah against them and seek refuge in Him from their evil. In the face of threat, the believer turns to Allah for protection.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1327 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 43
Hadith 1328
Ibn 'Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن ابن عمر رضي الله عنهما أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "الخيل معقود في نواصيها الخير إلى يوم القيامة" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "There is goodness in the forelocks of horses till the Day of Resurrection." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
In plain words
There is lasting good in horses kept for Allah's cause until the Day of Resurrection. What is devoted to serving Allah carries enduring blessing.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1328 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 44
Hadith 1329
'Urwah Al-Bariqi (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن عروة البارقي رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: الخيل معقود في نواصيها الخير إلى يوم القيامة: الأجر والمغنم" ((متفق عليه))
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Goodness is tied to the foreheads of horses until the Day of Resurrection, i.e., reward (in the Hereafter) and spoils." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Good is bound to horses until the Day of Resurrection, in the form of reward in the Hereafter and gain in this world. What is kept ready for Allah's cause brings benefit now and later.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1329 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 45
Hadith 1330
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "من احتبس فرسًا في سبيل الله إيمانًا بالله وتصديقًا بوعده، فإن شبعه، وروثه، وبوله في ميزانه يوم القيامة” ((رواه البخاري)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who keeps a horse for Jihad purposes, having faith in Allah and relying on His Promise, will find that its fodder, drink, droppings and urine will all be credited to him in his Scales on the Day of Resurrection." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
Whoever keeps a horse for Allah's cause, trusting His promise, will find even its feeding and care recorded as good deeds on the Day of Resurrection. Sincere intention turns ordinary upkeep into worship.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1330 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 46
Hadith 1331
Abu Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي مسعود رضي الله عنه قال: جار رجل إلى النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم بناقة مخطومة فقال: هذه في سبيل الله، فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "لك بها يوم القيامة سبعمائة ناقة كلها مخطومة" ((رواه مسلم)).
A man came to the Prophet (ﷺ) with a she-camel wearing a nose-string and said: "This is (a gift) in the Cause of Allah." The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) replied, "You will have in return for it on the Day of Resurrection seven hundred she-camels and every one of them will be wearing a nose-string." [Muslim].
In plain words
A man gave a single camel for Allah's cause and was promised seven hundred in return on the Day of Resurrection. Giving for Allah is repaid far beyond what was offered.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1331 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 47
Hadith 1332
'Uqbah bin 'Amir Al-Juhani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي حماد- ويقال: أبو سعاد، ويقال: أبو أسد، ويقال: أبو عامر، ويقال: أبو عمرو، ويقال: أبو الأسود، ويقال: أبو عبس- عقبة بن عامر الجهني، رضي الله عنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم وهو على المنبر يقول: “وأعدوا لهم ما استطعتم من قوة ألا إن القوة الرمي، ألا إن القوة الرمي، ألا إن القوة الرمي". ((رواه مسلم)). وعنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "ستفتح عليكم أرضون ويكفيكم الله فلا يعجز أحدكم أن يلهو بأسهمه" ((رواه مسلم)).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying from the pulpit, "Prepare to meet them (the enemy) with as much strength as you can afford. Verily! Strength is in archery, strength is in archery, strength is in archery." [Muslim].
In plain words
The Prophet (peace be upon him) urged the believers to prepare their strength, repeating that strength lies in skill with the bow. Being ready and well prepared is part of serving Allah's cause.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1332 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 48
Hadith 1333
'Uqbah bin 'Amir Juhani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "ستفتح عليكم أرضون ويكفيكم الله فلا يعجز أحدكم أن يلهو بأسهمه" ((رواه مسلم)).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying, "Lands shall be laid open to you, and Allah will suffice you (against your enemies), but none of you should neglect practicing his skill in archery." [Muslim].
In plain words
Even as Allah grants the believers ease and victory, none should abandon the skill of archery. Do not let prosperity make you neglect readiness.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1333 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 49
Hadith 1334
'Uqbah bin 'Amir Al-Juhani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه أنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "من عُلم الرمي ثم تركه فليس منا أو فقد عصى" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who learnt archery and then neglected it, is not from us." (Or said,) "He has been guilty of disobedience (to Messenger of Allah)." [Muslim].
In plain words
One who learned archery and then abandoned it has turned away from something the Prophet (peace be upon him) valued. A useful skill gained for Allah's cause should not be carelessly dropped.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1334 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 50
Hadith 1335
'Uqbah bin 'Amir Al-Juhani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعنه، رضي الله عنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "إن الله يدخل بالسهم الواحد ثلاثة نفر الجنة: صانعه يحتسب في صنعته الخير، والرامي به ومنبله. وارموا واركبوا، وأن ترموا أحب إلي من أن تركبوا. ومن ترك الرمي بعد ما علمه رغبة عنه فإنها نعمة تركها" أو قال: "كفرها" ((رواه أبو داود)).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying, "Allah will admit three persons to Jannah for one arrow; the maker who has a good motive in making it, the one who shoots it, and the one who hands it up for shooting. So shoot and ride, but I like your shooting (more) than your riding. He who gives up archery after becoming adept in it for lack of interest, neglects a (great) blessing." (Or said,) "One who does so is ungrateful." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
Allah may admit three to Paradise for a single arrow: its sincere maker, the one who shoots it, and the one who supplies it, so the believer is urged to keep up the skill and not waste the blessing. Each person who helps a good cause shares in its reward.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1335 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 51
Hadith 1336
Salamah bin Al-Akwa (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن سلمه بن الأكوع، رضي الله عنه قال: مر النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم على نفر ينتضلون، فقال: "ارموا بني إسماعيل فإن أباكم كان راميًا" ((رواه البخاري)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) happened to pass by a group of people who were having a shooting match. (Upon seeing them, he (ﷺ)) said, "Shoot, O sons of (Prophet) Isma'il, for your father was an archer." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
Passing a group at a shooting contest, the Prophet (peace be upon him) encouraged them, recalling that their forefather was an archer. Practising and improving worthwhile skill is encouraged.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1336 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 52
Hadith 1337
'Amr bin 'Abasah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن عمرو بن عبسة رضي الله عنه قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: من رمى بسهم في سبيل الله فهو له عدل محررة: ((رواه أبو داود، والترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح. )).
I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) saying: "He who shoots an arrow for the sake of Allah, will have a reward equal to the emancipation of a slave." [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Whoever shoots an arrow for the sake of Allah earns a reward like freeing a slave. Even a small act done sincerely for Allah's cause carries great weight.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1337 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 53
Hadith 1338
Abu Yahya Khuraim bin Fatik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي يحيي خريم بن فاتك رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "من أنفق نفقة في سبيل الله كتب له سبعمائة ضعف" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who makes a contribution in Allah's way, will have his reward seven hundred times recorded to his credit." [At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Whoever makes a contribution in Allah's cause has its reward multiplied seven hundredfold. Giving for Allah is repaid many times over.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1338 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 54
Hadith 1339
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي سعيد رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "ما من عبد يصوم يومًا في سبيل الله إلا باعد الله بذلك اليوم وجهه عن النار سبعين خريفًا" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Every slave of Allah who observes Saum (fasting) for a day in the Cause of Allah, Allah will keep his face from Hell-fire at a distance of seventy years." [Al- Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Whoever fasts a single day for the sake of Allah will be kept far from the Fire by the distance of seventy years. Sincere fasting for Allah is a powerful shield.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1339 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 55
Hadith 1340
Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي أمامة، رضي الله عنه عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "من صام يومًا في سبيل الله جعل الله بينه وبين النار خندقًا كما بين السماء والأرض" ((رواه الترمذي وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "He who observes Saum (fasting) for a day in the Cause of Allah, Allah will keep his face from Hell-fire at a distance equivalent to that between heaven and the earth." [At- Tirmidhi].
In plain words
Fasting one day for Allah's cause keeps a person from the Fire by a distance as vast as that between the heaven and the earth. It shows the great protection such worship brings.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1340 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 56
Hadith 1341
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "من مات ولم يغزُ، ولم يحدث نفسه بالغزو، مات على شعبة من النفاق" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "He who dies without having fought in the Cause of Allah or without having thought of doing so, will die with one characteristic of hypocrisy in him." [Muslim].
In plain words
One who dies having never fought nor even intended to strive in Allah's cause dies with a trace of hypocrisy in him. At the least, a believer should carry a sincere readiness in the heart.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1341 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 57
Hadith 1342
Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن جابر رضي الله عنه قال: كنا مع النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم في غزاة فقال: "إن بالمدينة لرجالا ما سرتم مسيرًا، ولا قطعتم واديًا إلا كانوا معكم حبسهم المرض"
We accompanied the Prophet (ﷺ) in an expedition when he (ﷺ) said, "Some people have remained behind us in Al-Madinah, and we never cross a valley but they are with us. They share the reward with us because they have been held back by valid excuse." In another narration the wordings are: "...by any genuine excuse." In another narration the wordings are: "They are your partners in reward." [Al- Bukhari].
In plain words
Companions who stayed in Madinah for a valid reason still shared the reward of those who marched out. A genuine excuse does not cut a person off from the reward of good they longed to do.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1342 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 58
Hadith 1343
Abu Musa (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي موسى، رضي الله عنه أن أعرابيا أتى النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فقال: يا رسول الله الرجل يقاتل للمغنم، والرجل يقاتل ليذكر، والرجل يقاتل ليرى مكانه؟ وفي رواية: يقاتل شجاعة، ويقاتل حَمِيّة. وفي رواية: ويقاتل غضبًا، فمن في سبيل الله؟ فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "من قاتل لتكون كلمة الله هي العليا، فهو في سبيل الله" ((متفق عليه))
A bedouin came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and said: "O Messenger of Allah! One man fights for booty, another fights to win fame, and the third fights for show off." Another narration is: "One fights for displaying his valour, another fights out of his family pride." Another narration is: "One fights out of rage." He asked: "Which of them is fighting in the Cause of Allah?" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The one who fights so that Word of Allah (Islam) be exalted, is the one who fights in the Cause of Allah." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Asked who truly fights for Allah among those seeking spoils, fame, or pride, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said it is the one who fights so that Allah's word is raised high. What matters is sincere intention, not the outward act.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1343 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 59
Hadith 1344
'Abdullah bin 'Amr bin Al-'As (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن عبد الله بن عمرو بن العاص، رضي الله عنهما، قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: "ما من غازية أو سرية تغزو، فتغنم وتسلم، إلا كانوا قد تعجلوا ثلثي أجورهم، وما من غازية أو سرية تخفق وتصاب إلا تم لهم أجورهم" ((رواه مسلم)).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "A detachment of soldiers, large or small, who fights in the way of Allah, gets its share of booty and returns safe and sound, receives in advance two- thirds of its reward (only one-third remaining to its credit will be received in the Hereafter). And a troop of soldiers, large or small, that returns disappointed and is afflicted by misery, will receive its full reward (in the Hereafter)." [Muslim].
In plain words
Soldiers who return safe with spoils receive part of their reward now, while those who come back weary and empty-handed receive their full reward in the Hereafter. Hardship endured for Allah is not lost but stored up with Him.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1344 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 60
Hadith 1345
Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي أمامة، رضي الله عنه أن رجلا قال: يا رسول الله ائذن لي في السياحة. فقال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم : "إن سياحة أمتي الجهاد في سبيل الله، عز وجل" ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد جيد)).
A man sought permission from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) to travel in the land. He (ﷺ) said to him, "Travel for my people is Jihad in the Cause of Allah, glory be to Him." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
A man who wished to travel the land was told that travel for the Prophet's community is striving in Allah's cause. Purpose and intention can give even a journey the worth of devotion.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1345 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 61
Hadith 1346
'Abdullah bin 'Amr bin Al-'As (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعن عبد الله بن عمرو بن العاص رضي الله عنهما عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "قفلة كغزوة" ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد جيد)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "The return from an expedition is an act as meritorious as fighting." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
Returning home from an expedition is as meritorious a deed as the fighting itself. The whole of a sincere effort for Allah, beginning to end, is rewarded.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1346 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 62
Hadith 1347
As-Sa'ib bin Yazid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن السائب بن يزيد، رضي الله عنه قال: لما قدم النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم من غزوة تبوك تلقاه الناس، فلقيته مع الصبيان على ثنية الوداع. (رواه أبو داود بإسناد صحيح بهذا اللفظ) ورواه البخاري قال: ذهبنا نتلقى رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم مع الصبيان إلى ثنية الوداع
When the Prophet (ﷺ) returned from the battle of Tabuk, people went out from Al-Madinah to meet him and I also met him with other children at Thaniyah-tul-Wada'. [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) came back from an expedition, the people, including children, went out joyfully to meet him. Welcoming and honouring those who return from serving is a goodness of the community.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1347 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 63
Hadith 1348
Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي أمامة رضي الله عنه عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: من لم يغزُ أو يجهز غازيًا، أو يخلف غازيًا في أهله بخير أصابه الله بقارعة قبل يوم القيامة: ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد صحيح)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "He who neither takes part in fighting nor equips a warrior nor looks after his (the warrior's) family, will be afflicted by severe calamities before the Day of Resurrection." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
One who neither fights, nor equips a fighter, nor cares for a fighter's family is warned of hardship before the Day of Resurrection. Everyone is meant to take some share in supporting Allah's cause.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1348 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 64
Hadith 1349
Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أنس رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "جاهدوا المشركين بأموالكم وأنفسكم وألسنتكم" ((رواه أبو داود بإسناد صحيح)).
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Fight the polytheists with your wealth, lives and tongues." [Abu Dawud].
In plain words
The believers are urged to strive against opposition with their wealth, their lives, and their words. Standing for the truth can take many forms, including speech and giving.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1349 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 65
Hadith 1350
An-Nu'man bin Muqarrin (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي عمرو ويقال: أبو حكيم النعمان بن مقرن رضي الله عنه قال: شهدت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم إذا لم يقاتل من أول النهار أخر القتال حتى تزول الشمس وتهب الريح وينزل النصر. ((رواه أبو داود، والترمذي، وقال: حديث حسن صحيح)).
I was with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) when I witnessed that if he did not begin fighting in the early part of the day, he would postpone fighting till the sun had declined, the blowing of the breeze had blown and the victory from Allah had come. [Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
In plain words
The Prophet (peace be upon him) would wait for a favourable time, when conditions eased and Allah's help drew near, before engaging. Patience and good timing, with trust in Allah, are part of wisdom.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1350 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 66
Hadith 1351
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
وعن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال: قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : "لا تتمنوا لقاء العدو، فإذا لقيتموه فاصبروا" ((متفق عليه))
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "Do not wish for an encounter with the enemy. Pray to Allah to grant you safety; (but) when you encounter them, show patience." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
Do not wish to meet the enemy; ask Allah for safety, but when you do face hardship, be patient. Humility before trial and steadfastness within it are what is asked of the believer.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1351 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 67
Hadith 1352
Abu Hurairah and Jabir (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:
وعنه وعن جابر، رضي الله عنهما أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: "الحرب خُدعة" ((متفق عليه))
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "War is deception." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
In plain words
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that war is deception. In genuine conflict, strategy and concealment of one's plans are part of how it is rightly conducted.
Reference : Riyad as-Salihin 1352 In-book reference : Book 11, Hadith 68