Marriage (Kitab Al-Nikah) - Sunan Abi Dawud 2148

Jarir said: I asked the Apostle of Allaah(ﷺ) about an accidental glance (on a woman). He (ﷺ) said "Turn your eyes away."

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud addresses the fundamental Islamic etiquette of lowering one's gaze (ghadd al-basar). The companion Jarir ibn Abdullah al-Bajali (may Allah be pleased with him) inquired about unintentional glances toward non-mahram women.

The Prophet's (ﷺ) response demonstrates that even accidental glances require immediate corrective action. Scholars explain that the first glance may be excused as unintentional, but subsequent glances become deliberate acts requiring accountability.

This teaching preserves modesty (haya) and protects society from moral corruption. Imam Nawawi comments that lowering the gaze is obligatory (wajib) to prevent lustful thoughts and actions. The command to "turn your eyes away" emphasizes proactive spiritual discipline rather than passive avoidance.

This guidance complements Quranic injunctions in Surah An-Nur (24:30-31) where believers are commanded to lower their gazes and guard their private parts, establishing comprehensive principles for interpersonal conduct in Islamic society.