Hadith Text

Abu Hurayra reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "You will not enter the Garden until you believe and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I tell you something the doing of which will give you love of one another?" "Yes, Messenger of Allah," they replied. The Prophet said, "Make the greeting common practice among you."

Source Reference

Book: Greetings

Author: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad

Hadith Reference: Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 980

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes a profound connection between faith, mutual love among believers, and the practice of spreading greetings. The Prophet ﷺ links entry into Paradise to complete faith, and complete faith to genuine brotherly love.

The scholars explain that the greeting referred to here is "As-salamu alaykum" (Peace be upon you), which contains prayers for security, peace, and divine protection. When Muslims exchange this greeting, they are actively cultivating the love that faith requires.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this hadith demonstrates how outward actions can strengthen inward states. The consistent practice of greeting one another removes estrangement, breaks barriers, and fosters the unity that characterizes the Muslim community.

Al-Qurtubi notes that the Prophet ﷺ specifically chose this simple yet profound act because it requires no wealth or special status - it is accessible to every Muslim and thus serves as a universal means of building bonds of brotherhood.

The phrase "make the greeting common practice" indicates that this should be a regular, widespread custom, not occasional or selective. This consistency transforms what might be mere formality into genuine connection, ultimately strengthening the faith that leads to Paradise.