عَنْ أَبِي مُحَمَّدٍ الْحَسَنِ بْنِ عَلِيِّ بْنِ أَبِي طَالِبٍ سِبْطِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم وَرَيْحَانَتِهِ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا، قَالَ:
حَفِظْت مِنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم "دَعْ مَا يَرِيبُك إلَى مَا لَا يَرِيبُك, فإن الصدق طمأنينة، والكذب ريبةٌ"
رَوَاهُ التِّرْمِذِيُّ [رقم:2520]، [وَالنَّسَائِيّ] وَقَالَ التِّرْمِذِيُّ: حَدِيثٌ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ.
حَفِظْت مِنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم "دَعْ مَا يَرِيبُك إلَى مَا لَا يَرِيبُك, فإن الصدق طمأنينة، والكذب ريبةٌ"
رَوَاهُ التِّرْمِذِيُّ [رقم:2520]، [وَالنَّسَائِيّ] وَقَالَ التِّرْمِذِيُّ: حَدِيثٌ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ.
On the authority of Abu Muhammad al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abee Talib RA, the grandson of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, the one much loved by him, who said:
I memorised from the Messenger of Allah ﷺ : “Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt for truth is peace of mind and falsehood is doubt.”
[At-Tirmidhi] [An-Nasai]
I memorised from the Messenger of Allah ﷺ : “Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt for truth is peace of mind and falsehood is doubt.”
[At-Tirmidhi] [An-Nasai]
The hadith narrated by al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abee Talib (RA), conveys a profound lesson from the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) about the importance of clarity and certainty in one's actions and decisions. It emphasises the need to avoid actions, thoughts, or choices that create uncertainty and unease. Instead, one should seek what is clear and unambiguous, as this brings peace and reassurance.
The theme of this hadith aligns closely with the guidance provided in Hadith #6, which distinguishes between what is clearly halal (permissible) and haram (forbidden), and advises staying away from doubtful or ambiguous matters. By avoiding the grey areas and refraining from actions that cause doubt, a person protects their integrity and maintains a clear conscience. This principle reflects the value of living a life guided by certainty and truth, which ultimately fosters inner peace and spiritual well-being.
Narrator of the Hadith #11: al-Hasan ibn Ali RA
عَنْ أَبِي مُحَمَّدٍ الْحَسَنِ بْنِ عَلِيِّ بْنِ أَبِي طَالِبٍ سِبْطِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم وَرَيْحَانَتِهِ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا، قَالَ حَفِظْت مِنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم
On the authority of Abu Muhammad al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abee Talib RA, the grandson of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ, and the one much loved by him, who said: “I memorised from the Messenger of Allah ﷺ:
Al-Hasan ibn Ali ibn Abee Talib RA, the narrator of this hadith, holds a distinguished position in Islamic history. He was one of the beloved grandsons of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through his daughter Fatimah RA and her husband Ali ibn Abi Talib RA.
The Prophet ﷺ expressed his deep affection for al-Hasan, often praising him publicly. One notable instance recorded in Sahih Bukhari mentions the Prophet ﷺ speaking from the pulpit with al-Hasan beside him, referring to him as a "Saiyid":
ابْنِي هَذَا سَيِّدٌ، وَلَعَلَّ اللَّهَ أَنْ يُصْلِحَ بِهِ بَيْنَ فِئَتَيْنِ مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِين
This son of mine is a Saiyid (i.e. chief) and perhaps Allah will bring about an agreement between two sects of the Muslims through him." [Sahih al-Bukhari]
Al-Hasan, along with his brother al-Husayn, is revered as a leader of the youth in Paradise, as mentioned in a hadith recorded by at-Tirmidhi.
عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، رضى الله عنه قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم " الْحَسَنُ وَالْحُسَيْنُ سَيِّدَا شَبَابِ أَهْلِ الْجَنَّةِ"
Narrated Abu Sa'eed, that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Al-Hasan and Al-Husain are the chiefs of the youths of Paradise." [at-Tirmidhi]
The term "سِبْطِ" used in Arabic specifically refers to a grandson through one's daughter, highlighting his direct lineage to the Prophet ﷺ. This term can sometimes also refer to a grandson through one's son, as seen in the Quranic reference to the descendants of Abraham.
The expression "رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا" (May Allah be pleased with them both) used here acknowledges both al-Hasan and his father Ali ibn Abi Talib. This reflects the high esteem in which both are held within the Islamic tradition.
Al-Hasan's memorization of hadith is noteworthy. The term "حَفِظْت" indicates that this narration was directly learned from the Prophet ﷺ, highlighting the authenticity and reliability of the transmission. Despite his youth, al-Hasan memorised numerous narrations, not only from the Prophet ﷺ but also from senior Companions. His youthful age did not diminish his credibility as a narrator, a testament to the rigorous standards of hadith scholarship which emphasise precision and trustworthiness.
In hadith literature, al-Hasan is known for his meticulousness in preserving and transmitting the Prophet's sayings. His narrations are free from doubts, reflecting his close connection to the Prophet ﷺ and his dedication to maintaining the purity of the teachings he received. This rigorous approach is similar to other young prolific narrators, such as al-Abbas, who, despite their youth, are recognized for their significant contributions to the preservation of hadith. Al-Hasan's legacy as a reliable and precise narrator underscores the importance of accuracy in the transmission of Islamic knowledge
Leave the Doubtful
دَعْ مَا يَرِيبُك إلَى مَا لَا يَرِيبُك
Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt for truth is peace of mind and falsehood is doubt.
This narration underscores a universal principle within Islamic teachings, one that applies broadly to various aspects of life. The 40 Hadiths compiled by Imam Nawawi, including this one, offer timeless wisdom that guides Muslims through most of their lives. They are not confined to a particular context but are relevant to daily decision-making and ethical considerations.
In this particular hadith, we see a consolidation of a principle previously highlighted in the narration by an-Nu’man (Hadith no. 6), which advises staying away from doubtful matters. This principle is comprehensive and applies to all aspects of life, including "ibadat" (specific acts of worship such as prayer, zakat, fasting, and jihad) and "ibadah" (general acts of worship). The scholars have understood "ibadat" to involve practices that are explicitly defined within Islamic law, while "ibadah" encompasses a broader scope of any action performed with the intention of worshipping Allah. This principle does not restrict these acts of worship but rather empowers and calibrates them by ensuring that they are performed with clarity and certainty.
In essence, this hadith encourages Muslims to prioritise truth and certainty in all their actions, whether in worship, transactions, or daily interactions. By avoiding doubtful matters, individuals protect their integrity and uphold the ethical and moral standards set by Islam. This approach not only aligns with the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ but also brings about a sense of peace and assurance, knowing that one's actions are righteous and free from doubt.
This principle applies to all sectors of life: worship, transactions, interactions, seeking knowledge, speech, and relationships. In all of these areas, the principle is to leave that which is doubtful.
For example, if there is someone who teaches Islam, but there is doubt regarding the authenticity of their knowledge or the authoritative nature of their teachings, you don't have to analyse the entire situation in detail to make your decision. If there is doubt, it is better to stay away from it. You don't need to warn others against learning from this person or publicise your doubts. It is a personal decision to stay away from their lessons and seek another teacher whose teachings you do not doubt. Alhamdulillah, you have many choices.
For instance, if you want to buy a book but doubt the nature of the knowledge it contains, whether it conforms to the understanding of the Sahabah (companions of the Prophet) and how they understood Islam, then leave that book. Buy or read a book that you do not doubt. This is what the hadith is instructing: leave that which is doubtful for that which is not doubtful.
Similarly, in practical examples related to doubt in everyday life, if you go to a restaurant and doubt whether it serves halal meat, leave and go to another restaurant or choose a vegetarian meal. The principle remains: leave that which is doubtful for that which is not.
The same principle applies in our ibadat. For example, when you are performing Tawaf around the Kaaba and you start doubting whether you are on your fifth round or your fourth round, you should rely on what you are certain about. If you definitely know you have completed three rounds, then leave what is doubtful and count your current round as the fourth. The fourth round is not doubtful, but the fifth round would be. So, consider your current round as the fourth because there is no doubt about the first three.
Similarly, in Salah, if you are uncertain whether you are in your fourth or third rak'ah (unit of prayer), leave the doubtful option and consider what you are certain about. If you are sure you have completed two rak'ahs, then count your current rak'ah as the third. If you counted it as the fourth, you would be relying on doubt. This principle applies when you truly have no idea whether it is the third or fourth rak'ah. In such situations, build your actions upon certainty. Thus, the hadith applies here as well: "Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt."
By building your actions on certainty, you ensure that your worship remains correct and free from doubt, aligning with the teachings of the Prophet ﷺ and bringing tranquillity to your worship.
Prioritise! Prioritise! Prioritise!
This hadith is not meant to impose unnecessary restrictions, as we have discussed before. What is certain is far more numerous than what is doubtful.
Ibn Mas'ud, the great companion of the Prophet ﷺ, was once asked a question, and he responded by saying, "Leave that which is doubtful for the 4,000 other things that are not doubtful." By saying 4,000, he was emphasising that there are thousands of things free from doubt, and yet people often fixate on the doubtful matters.
This scenario frequently happens in various aspects of worship. For instance, many people inquire about Salat al-Tasbeeh, questioning whether it is from the Sunnah or not. At the very least, it is doubtful. However, what is not doubtful is Tahajjud (the night prayer). People might neglect waking up for Tahajjud, which is undoubtedly from the Sunnah, and instead focus on the doubtful matter of Salat al-Tasbeeh. This illustrates how the principle of leaving doubtful matters for those that are certain can be applied.
In Arabic, there is a phrase, "هناك خلل" (there is an issue here), highlighting that focusing on doubtful matters while neglecting certain and well-established practices is problematic. This hadith guides us to prioritise what is certain and clear, thereby ensuring our actions and worship remain grounded in what is undoubtedly correct and beneficial. It is important to prioritise certainty over doubt to avoid such problems.
The narration is not trying to restrict us, instead, it's trying to empower and calibrate us to be a better Muslim.
Tranquillity in The Truth
فإن الصدق طمأنينة، والكذب ريبةٌ
for that which does not make you doubt for truth is peace of mind and falsehood is doubt.
The hadith further explains that embracing truth and certainty brings tranquillity, while engaging in falsehood or doubt breeds further uncertainty and unease. The Prophet ﷺ is emphasising that truth brings tranquillity, while falsehood sows doubt. Doubt leads to more doubt, whereas certainty brings peace of mind. This principle is observable in many aspects of our lives.
For example, someone performing Hajj might doubt the validity of their actions if they don't base them on certainty. They might worry excessively about whether their Hajj is valid, leading to more doubts and anxiety, perhaps even questioning how many animals they need to slaughter or whether they should repeat their Hajj. This cycle of doubt leads to further trepidation and unrest.
Those who avoid doubtful matters find more peace and tranquillity than those who follow uncertainties. This principle is applicable in every aspect of life. If one encounters doubt or ambiguity in any situation, it is wise to leave it and seek clarity. By doing so, a person ensures their actions are aligned with Islamic teachings and maintains a clear conscience, fostering inner peace and spiritual well-being.
The Prophet ﷺ spoke the truth, and we see its application in practice. Those who avoid doubtful matters are more tranquil than those who indulge in them.
This principle also extends to our speech. If you are unsure about something, it is better not to speak, or at least clarify that you are uncertain. When speaking about someone else, especially if it could harm their reputation, remaining silent is crucial if you are not sure. Once words are spoken, they cannot be unheard, and they can cause unnecessary doubt and harm.
For instance, if you are unsure about the price of something or the duration of a journey, it is wise to preface your statement with a disclaimer, such as, "I'm not certain, but I believe it is X." However, if someone asks for your opinion about a person, and you have doubts about your knowledge, it is best to remain silent. Saying something doubtful can unjustly harm someone, creating unwarranted suspicion and doubt.
The overarching message of the hadith is to cultivate a lifestyle where decisions are made with confidence and without hesitation. By steering clear of doubtful situations and adhering to what is unequivocally right, one can avoid the anxiety and inner conflict that often accompany uncertainty. This hadith encourages believers to prioritise clarity and truth, thereby ensuring that their actions are aligned with the ethical and moral standards set by Islamic teachings.
In summary, this hadith teaches us to prioritise certainty over doubt, not only in our actions but also in our speech. By doing so, we maintain tranquillity and avoid causing unnecessary harm or anxiety to ourselves and others. Allah knows best.
Disclaimer:
Hadith #11 - Refraining from Doubts
Sheikh Dr. Sajid Umar | STEPS TO JANNAH S3 | Forty Hadith Imam Nawawi
These are notes sharing from the Steps of Jannah classes online taught by Sheikh Dr Sajid Umar focusing on Hadith 40 an-Nawawi. The classes are still ongoing, every Monday 8pm UK time. If you would like to join, please email stepstojannah12@gmail.com
The notes written are from a student’s personal notes transcribed from the sessions. Should there be any error, May Allah forgive us, and do feedback (ain1810@gmail.com) so that it can get amended, and may it be beneficial to all of us and may Allah reward Jannah to Sh Sajid and his team for the beneficial ‘ilm being shared and to all of the students Steps to Jannah, Ameen.