Hadith Text & Reference

"Faith has over seventy branches, the most excellent of which is the declaration that there is no god but Allah, and the humblest of which is the removal of a bone from the road. And modesty is a branch of faith." (Sunan Abi Dawud 4676)

Comprehensive Meaning

This noble hadith from the Model Behavior of the Prophet (Kitab Al-Sunnah) establishes that faith (iman) is not a singular entity but rather comprises numerous aspects and manifestations. The number "seventy" in classical Arabic usage denotes abundance rather than a precise numerical count, indicating the comprehensive nature of faith that encompasses beliefs, actions, and moral character.

The declaration of Tawhid (La ilaha illa Allah) represents the foundation of Islamic belief, while removing harm from pathways demonstrates how faith manifests in the smallest acts of social responsibility. This illustrates the holistic nature of Islam where creed and conduct are inseparable.

Hierarchy of Excellence

The hadith establishes a spiritual hierarchy where the testimony of faith stands as the highest branch, being the foundation upon which all other aspects of faith depend. Without this fundamental creed, no other act of worship or virtue holds validity in the sight of Allah.

Conversely, removing obstacles from roads represents the most basic expression of faith - demonstrating how even seemingly minor acts of kindness and social responsibility are integral to one's spiritual state when performed with sincere intention.

The Nature of Modesty

The inclusion of modesty (haya') as a branch of faith is particularly significant. Classical scholars explain that modesty is not merely shyness or embarrassment, but rather a spiritual quality that prevents a person from committing disgraceful acts and abandoning duties.

Imam Al-Nawawi comments that modesty is of two types: natural modesty that one is born with, and acquired modesty through knowledge of Allah and awareness of His constant observation. Both types strengthen faith and protect from sin.

Practical Implications

This teaching emphasizes that faith permeates all aspects of human life - from the highest spiritual realities to the most mundane daily interactions. The believer is thus reminded that their entire existence should reflect their faith.

The scholars deduce from this hadith that faith increases through obedience and decreases through sin, as the various branches may strengthen or weaken based on one's actions and spiritual state. This understanding prevents complacency and encourages continuous spiritual growth.