Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "Choose such actions as you are capable of performing, for Allah does not grow weary till you do. The acts most pleasing to Allah are those which are done most continuously, even if they amount to little. Whenever he began an action, he would do it continuously."

Source: Sunan Abi Dawud 1368 - Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Voluntary Prayers

Meaning & Core Principles

This hadith establishes fundamental principles for worship: moderation, consistency, and sincerity. Allah does not burden souls beyond capacity, thus believers should choose sustainable acts of devotion.

The Prophet emphasized quality over quantity - small but consistent deeds are superior to sporadic grand gestures. This reflects divine wisdom in accepting deeds based on continuity rather than magnitude.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith encourages moderation in worship to avoid burnout. The phrase "Allah does not grow weary" means divine reward continues as long as the servant persists in good deeds.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes that consistency demonstrates sincerity and firm resolve, making deeds more beloved to Allah than large but intermittent actions that may stem from temporary enthusiasm.

Scholars derive that voluntary prayers should be performed regularly according to one's capacity, even if few rak'ahs, rather than excessive prayers that cannot be maintained.

Practical Application

Begin with manageable voluntary prayers like two rak'ahs before Fajr or after Maghrib and maintain them consistently rather than attempting many rak'ahs occasionally.

If unable to pray night prayers regularly, establish what is feasible - even if minimal - and increase gradually as capacity grows, following the Prophet's example of continuity in actions once begun.

This principle applies to all worship: Quran recitation, charity, fasting, and remembrance of Allah - prioritize sustainable regularity over excessive but unsustainable practices.