Hadith Text

Umm Sa'id bint Murra al-Fihri related from her father that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "I and the guardian of an orphan will be in the Garden like these two." (His two fingers)

Source Reference

Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 133

Commentary on the Narration

This noble hadith from the book "Generosity and Orphans" in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad demonstrates the immense virtue of caring for orphans. The Prophet ﷺ used the metaphor of two adjacent fingers to illustrate the closeness between himself and the orphan's guardian in Paradise.

Scholars explain that this proximity indicates the highest ranks of Paradise, reserved for those who embody the finest character traits. The guardian (wali) refers to one who assumes responsibility for an orphan's upbringing, protection, and financial support, treating them with compassion as their own child.

Spiritual Significance

The imagery of two fingers signifies inseparable closeness, constant companionship, and equal honor in the divine presence. Just as two fingers work in harmony, the Prophet and the orphan's guardian will share the same elevated station.

This promise serves as tremendous encouragement for Muslims to care for society's most vulnerable members, particularly orphans who have lost their natural protectors. Such care embodies the comprehensive mercy Islam brings to humanity.

Practical Application

The guardianship includes providing physical sustenance, emotional support, Islamic education, and protecting the orphan's rights and property until they reach maturity.

This hadith reminds believers that serving Allah's creation, especially the weak, is a direct path to divine pleasure and eternal proximity to the Prophet ﷺ in the hereafter.