Abu Hurayra reported that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "One day a man became very thirsty while walking down the road. He came across a well, went down into it, and drank and then climbed out. In front of him he found a dog panting, eating the dust out of thirst. The man said, 'This dog is as thirsty as I was.' He went back down into the well and filled his shoe, putting it into his mouth (in order to climb back up) and then gave the dog water. Therefore Allah thanked him and forgave him." They said, "Messenger of Allah, will we have a reward on account of animals?" He said, "There is a reward on account of every living thing."
Mercy - Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 378
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. This blessed hadith from Sahih Al-Adab Al-Mufrad (378) transmitted by the noble companion Abu Hurayra (may Allah be pleased with him) contains profound wisdom regarding the vastness of divine mercy and the comprehensive nature of Islamic ethics.
The Narrative Structure
The Prophet (peace be upon him) employs a narrative format to illustrate spiritual truths, making the lesson accessible and memorable. The story of the thirsty man demonstrates that divine mercy encompasses all creation, not merely humans.
The man's journey from experiencing thirst to relieving another creature's thirst represents the spiritual journey from self-awareness to compassion for others.
Theological Implications
Allah's "thanking" the man, as mentioned in the hadith, does not imply Allah needs to thank His creation. Rather, it signifies divine acceptance and pleasure, demonstrating that Allah honors those who show mercy.
The forgiveness granted for this single act of kindness shows the magnitude of Allah's generosity and how small deeds, when done sincerely, can erase major sins.
Juridical Ruling
The companions' question "Will we have a reward on account of animals?" reflects their understanding that Islamic law protects animal welfare. The Prophet's definitive response "There is a reward on account of every living thing" establishes that showing kindness to any creature is an act of worship.
Scholars derive from this that providing water to thirsty animals, feeding them, and treating them gently are all rewarded acts that draw one closer to Allah.
Practical Application
This hadith teaches Muslims to recognize the rights of animals and to treat them with compassion. The man's effort - descending the well twice, using his shoe as a vessel, and climbing while holding water in his mouth - shows that true compassion requires practical effort and personal sacrifice.
The story encourages believers to be observant of others' suffering and to respond actively, even when the beneficiary cannot reciprocate.