عَنْ أَبِي مَسْعُودٍ عُقْبَةَ بْنِ عَمْرٍو الْأَنْصَارِيِّ الْبَدْرِيِّ رَضِيَ اللهُ عَنْهُ قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم "إنَّ مِمَّا أَدْرَكَ النَّاسُ مِنْ كَلَامِ النُّبُوَّةِ الْأُولَى: إذَا لَمْ تَسْتَحِ فَاصْنَعْ مَا شِئْت" .
[رَوَاهُ الْبُخَارِيُّ].
On the authority of Abu Masood Uqbah bin ’Amr al-Ansaree al-Badree RA who said:
The Messenger of Allah SAW said, “Verily, from what was learnt by the people from the speech of the earliest prophecy is: If you feel no shame, then do as you wish.”
[Al-Bukhari]
Hadith No. 20 from Imam Nawawi’s Forty Hadith is a succinct yet profound teaching of the Prophet Muhammad SAW. Its simplicity belies its far-reaching implications, not only for Muslims but for all of humanity. It serves as a timeless lesson on the importance of modesty (ḥayā’) as a fundamental aspect of human conduct and spirituality.
Modesty, deeply embedded within the framework of faith, significantly shapes how individuals navigate their interactions and conduct themselves within society. The concept of modesty transcends mere outward behaviour; it is a reflection of internal values and spiritual awareness. Hadith 20 from Imam Nawawi’s collection underscores the importance of modesty by referencing it as a fundamental lesson inherited from the earliest prophetic teachings. This Hadith emphasises that modesty is not just a cultural trait but a timeless principle with universal relevance, urging believers to embody it consistently across diverse contexts.
Education on modesty should begin early in life to instil its significance before external societal influences become prominent. By integrating modesty into the upbringing of youth, we ensure that they grasp its importance and are equipped to uphold it amidst various challenges. Modesty, as highlighted in the Hadith, is not confined to any single aspect of life but encompasses language, attire, and general behaviour. This holistic approach to modesty reinforces its role as a comprehensive and integral part of one’s faith.
The narrator of the hadith, Abu Masood Uqbah bin ’Amr al-Ansaree al-Badree RA, or his name Sa'ad ibn Ubadah RA was a prominent companion of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and a key figure in the early Islamic community. His life and contributions are celebrated for their impact on the formation and development of Islam. He was born into the Khazraj tribe, one of the two main tribes of the Ansar in Medina. He belonged to the noble and influential tribe of the Khazraj, and his family was known for its leadership and status within the tribe. Sa'ad's father, Ubadah ibn al-Samit, was also a notable figure in pre-Islamic Arabia and a respected leader. He embraced Islam early in the prophetic mission. He, along with other leaders from Medina, met the Prophet Muhammad SAW during the First and Second Pledges of Aqabah, where the Ansar pledged their support to the Prophet. Sa'ad was among those who accepted Islam and committed themselves to the cause of the new faith.
Sa'ad ibn Ubadah is notably remembered for his participation in the Battle of Badr, which took place in 624 CE. This battle was a turning point for the Muslim community, marking their first major military victory against the Quraysh of Mecca. Sa'ad's involvement in this critical battle earned him the esteemed title of "Badri," a designation reserved for those who participated in this significant event. The honour of being a Badri highlighted his early dedication and sacrifice for the cause of Islam.
Sa'ad ibn Ubadah was a respected leader among the Ansar. His leadership was instrumental in the support and defence of the Prophet Muhammad SAW and the early Muslim community. He was known for his wisdom, generosity, and commitment to the principles of Islam. Sa'ad played a key role in fostering unity among the Ansar and in supporting the Prophet's mission in Medina. He was also involved in various aspects of community life in Medina. He was known for his charitable work and his efforts to help those in need. His contributions extended beyond the battlefield; he was active in supporting the socio-economic development of the Muslim community.
Sa'ad ibn Ubadah passed away in 656 CE during the caliphate of Ali ibn Abi Talib. His death was deeply mourned by the early Muslims, and he was remembered for his piety, leadership, and unwavering support for the Prophet Muhammad SAW. His legacy continues to be honoured as an exemplary companion who played a significant role in the early days of Islam. His life exemplifies dedication, sacrifice, and leadership in the formative years of the Islamic community.
The Timelessness of the Hadith
قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه و سلم: إنَّ مِمَّا أَدْرَكَ النَّاسُ مِنْ كَلَامِ النُّبُوَّةِ الْأُولَى
The Messenger of Allah SAW said, “Verily, from what was learnt by the people from the speech of the earliest prophecy is
The Messenger of Allah SAW said, “Verily, from what was learnt by the people from the speech of the earliest prophecy is
The hadith begins by emphasising that the lesson of modesty is one that has "aged," suggesting that it originates from earlier generations of Prophethood. This is a reference to the continuity of prophetic teachings throughout human history. Modesty was a principle taught by all prophets, from Adam to Muhammad (peace be upon them all). As the Prophet Muhammad SAW mentioned, "This lesson is from the earlier Prophets," meaning it has always been central to divine teachings.
The fact that modesty was emphasised in earlier Prophets' teachings highlights its universal relevance. Modesty is not limited to Islamic tradition; rather, it is a value inherent to human nature and universally understood across cultures and religions. The concept of ḥayā’ is timeless, transcending societal norms and shifting cultural practices. It underscores the idea that modesty is a virtue that defines the best aspects of human behaviour regardless of time and place.
Modesty as a Branch of Faith
إذَا لَمْ تَسْتَحِ فَاصْنَعْ مَا شِئْت
If you feel no shame, then do as you wish.
Modesty is intricately connected to eeman. As the Prophet SAW said in another hadith:
"Faith consists of more than seventy branches, and modesty is a branch of faith."
(Sahih Muslim)
This statement emphasises that modesty is not merely an external social construct but a fundamental expression of one's relationship with Allah. Modesty comes from within; it is a reflection of a person's spirituality, consciousness of Allah, and understanding of the boundaries that Allah has set for human behaviour. As the hadith implies, the absence of modesty correlates to a deficiency in faith. A person who feels no shame in doing something immoral or immodest is distanced from the awareness of Allah’s presence.
This intrinsic link between modesty and faith is central to Islamic ethical teaching. Modesty governs not just physical actions, such as dress and behaviour, but also governs internal states of mind, speech, and intentions. Modesty before Allah means refraining from sinful actions because one is conscious of being in His presence at all times. Modesty in dealing with others ensures that one upholds dignity and respect for human relationships.
The Meaning of "Do as You Wish"
“If you feel no shame, then do as you wish,” has been interpreted by scholars in different ways, all pointing to the same underlying message. One interpretation is that it is not a command to act without shame but rather a warning. The Prophet SAW is effectively saying, "If you have lost your sense of modesty, you are capable of doing anything wrong." In other words, without the moral restraint provided by modesty, a person may fall into actions that are sinful or harmful.
Another interpretation suggests that the statement can be seen as a litmus test for ethical behaviour. If an action causes no sense of shame or guilt before Allah and before people of sound faith, then it is likely permissible. However, if an action does invoke shame or guilt, it should be avoided. This interpretation aligns with the broader Islamic principle that a believer should follow their heart and conscience when determining right from wrong, so long as their heart is in harmony with the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah.
Modesty as a Universal Principle
The idea that modesty applies across "the spectrum of mankind" means that it is not confined to Muslims alone. Modesty, or the lack thereof, has implications for all of humanity. In Islamic teachings, modesty applies to various spheres of life, including personal conduct, social behaviour, and speech. It is not limited to dress, though that is a common area of focus.
For instance, modesty in speech is highly emphasised in Islam. Muslims are encouraged to avoid vulgar language and offensive speech. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
"A believer does not insult others, does not curse, and is not foul or obscene."
(Sahih Muslim)
(Sahih Muslim)
The increasing normalisation of vulgarity and inappropriate language in modern culture is contrary to Islamic principles. As mentioned in the transcription above, language has meaning and power. Even if someone claims they do not "mean" the offensive connotations of their words, the very act of uttering them indicates a lack of ḥayā’.
In a time where societal norms are increasingly permissive, the Islamic concept of modesty stands as a counterbalance. It calls for restraint, respect, and dignity in all interactions. The absence of modesty in language, dress, or behavior reflects an erosion of these values, leading to a decline in moral standards
The Role of Modesty in Developing a Moral Society
Modesty manifests in different ways, depending on the context. For instance:
Modesty in Dress: Islamic teachings provide guidelines on modest dress for both men and women. Clothing should not be tight, transparent, or revealing, as it is a form of modesty to cover one's body in a dignified manner. This is not just about adhering to religious rules but also about respecting one's own body and the bodies of others.
Modesty in Speech: A modest person avoids harsh, offensive, or vulgar speech. The Prophet SAW described the ideal Muslim as someone
"from whose tongue and hand people are safe" (Sahih al-Bukhari).
"from whose tongue and hand people are safe" (Sahih al-Bukhari).
Modesty in Behaviour: Modesty also extends to actions. Being humble, refraining from boasting, and treating others with kindness and respect are all examples of modest behaviour.
Modesty in Thought: A modest person controls their thoughts and inner desires. Modesty in thought means that one does not entertain inappropriate or sinful ideas, which can lead to immodest actions. This internal modesty is just as important as external modesty.
Modesty in Relationships: In personal relationships, modesty means respecting the boundaries set by Islam, especially in interactions between men and women. Modesty helps protect individuals from falling into situations of temptation or impropriety.
A society that upholds modesty is one that fosters mutual respect, dignity, and peace. In such a society, people are conscious of their responsibilities toward one another and toward Allah. Modesty ensures that individuals do not overstep moral boundaries, and it provides a safeguard against behaviours that lead to corruption and immorality.
In modern times, however, the concept of modesty is often misunderstood. In some cases, it is perceived as an outdated or restrictive concept, especially in relation to women's dress or behaviour. This misunderstanding stems from a narrow interpretation of modesty, reducing it to a mere code of dress or a set of superficial restrictions.
Islamic modesty, however, is far broader. It is a holistic principle that encompasses all aspects of life, for both men and women. It is about fostering an attitude of humility, respect, and dignity in every action, whether in private or public. This broad understanding of modesty creates the foundation for a society in which individuals are mindful of their duties to Allah and to one another.
Islamic scholars have classified modesty into two categories: natural and acquired. Natural modesty is something inherent within a person. Some individuals are naturally shy or bashful, and this form of modesty is considered praiseworthy. The Prophet Muhammad SAW once saw a man criticising his brother for being too modest, to which he responded,
"Leave him, for modesty is part of faith" (Sahih Muslim).
Acquired modesty, on the other hand, is developed through conscious effort and training. It involves recognizing the areas in one's life where modesty is lacking and working to cultivate it. Acquired modesty is significant because it shows that even if a person is not naturally inclined to modesty, they can develop it by drawing closer to Allah and internalising Islamic teachings.
In today's world, where external influences often encourage immodesty, acquiring modesty may require more effort. Social media, entertainment, and peer pressure can all erode one's sense of modesty, but with the right tools—such as Islamic education, a supportive community, and regular self-reflection—modesty can be nurtured and developed.
The hadith’s warning about the consequences of living without modesty underscores that immodesty leads to moral decay. A life devoid of modesty can result in harmful behaviours and ethical decline, making the cultivation of modesty a crucial aspect of personal and societal well-being.
In conclusion, Hadith No. 20 from Imam Nawawi’s collection highlights modesty as a timeless and universal virtue integral to faith. It calls for a holistic understanding and application of modesty in all aspects of life, fostering personal growth and contributing to a morally sound society.
Disclaimer:
Hadith #20 - Modesty Is Part Of Faith
Hadith #20 - Modesty Is Part Of Faith
Instructor: Sheikh Dr. Sajid Umar | STEPS TO JANNAH S2 | 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.
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.