Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "There are three (persons) whose actions are not recorded: a sleeper till he awakes, an idiot till he is restored to reason, and a boy till he reaches puberty."

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 4398 | Book: Prescribed Punishments (Kitab Al-Hudud)

Meaning & Context

This hadith establishes that divine accountability (taklīf) only applies to those possessing full consciousness and mental capacity. The three categories mentioned represent states where legal and moral responsibility is suspended due to temporary or permanent incapacity.

The recording of deeds refers to the angels' documentation of human actions for the Day of Judgment. This suspension reflects Allah's mercy and justice, as He does not hold accountable those incapable of rational choice.

Scholarly Commentary

The Sleeper: Actions performed during sleep are not recorded because consciousness (ʿaql) is absent. This includes involuntary movements, speech, or deeds done while dreaming. The recording resumes upon full awakening and restoration of faculties.

The Insane Person (Majnoon): One who has lost mental capacity due to insanity or severe mental illness is exempt from religious obligations. This exemption continues until reason is restored, as intentionality (niyyah) and understanding are prerequisites for accountability.

The Minor Child: Children before puberty are not held accountable for religious duties or sins. Their good deeds are recorded as blessings, but sinful actions are not counted against them. Puberty marks the beginning of full legal and religious responsibility.

Legal Implications

This hadith forms the foundation for numerous Islamic legal principles. Criminal penalties (hudud) do not apply to these three categories. Religious obligations like prayer and fasting are not required from them. Contracts and legal transactions made by them may be invalid or voidable.

The principle extends to temporary states of unconsciousness, intoxication, or coercion where free will is compromised. Scholars emphasize that this divine mercy demonstrates Islam's balanced approach to justice, considering both capability and intention in accountability.