Hadith Commentary

This profound statement from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) recorded in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 597 serves as a fundamental principle in Islamic ethics. The scholars explain that haya (modesty/shame) is not merely an emotion but a protective spiritual quality that prevents a believer from engaging in improper actions.

Scholarly Interpretation

Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) stated that haya is of two types: natural instinct and acquired through faith. The former is common to all people, while the latter is specific to believers and grows with iman.

Al-Nawawi commented that this hadith indicates that when one loses the sense of shame, they become capable of any evil, for haya acts as a restraint against sin.

Practical Application

This teaching emphasizes that proper behavior in Islam begins with cultivating an internal moral compass. The absence of shame signifies spiritual decay, while its presence indicates living faith.

True haya manifests in avoiding what Allah has forbidden, speaking truth, and maintaining dignity in all interactions - with Allah, with others, and with oneself.