The Hadith of Mercy

Jarir reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Allah will not show mercy to a person who does not show mercy to other people." (Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 375)

Commentary on Divine and Human Mercy

This profound hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic ethics: the reciprocity between divine mercy and human compassion. The Prophet's statement reveals that Allah's mercy is conditional upon our treatment of fellow human beings.

Scholars explain that this encompasses all forms of mercy - toward parents, children, spouses, neighbors, orphans, animals, and even enemies. The one whose heart is hardened against creation cannot expect the Creator's compassion.

Practical Implications

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali comments that this hadith demonstrates that mercy is not merely an emotional state but must manifest in actions. Feeding the hungry, comforting the distressed, and speaking kindly are all manifestations of this quality.

Al-Qurtubi adds that this principle applies to both Muslims and non-Muslims, as the general wording "people" encompasses all humanity. The mercy we show others becomes the vessel through which Allah's mercy reaches us.

Spiritual Consequences

Imam al-Ghazali observes that the withholding of divine mercy from those who lack mercy serves as a severe warning. It indicates that such individuals distance themselves from Allah's attributes, as mercy is among His most celebrated qualities.

This teaching from the book "Mercy" in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad reminds us that our relationship with Allah is reflected in our relationships with His creation. The measure of mercy we give becomes the measure we receive.