Abu Hurayra reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "Allah loves sneezing and hates yawning. When one of you sneezes and praises Allah Almighty, it is a duty for every Muslim who hears him to say to him, 'May Allah have mercy on you.' Yawning comes from Shaytan. When one of you yawns, he should control it as much as possible. When a man says, 'Aawh!,' Shaytan laughs at him."
Sneezing and Yawning
From Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 919, Abu Hurayra reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: "Allah loves sneezing and hates yawning. When one of you sneezes and praises Allah Almighty, it is a duty for every Muslim who hears him to say to him, 'May Allah have mercy on you.' Yawning comes from Shaytan. When one of you yawns, he should control it as much as possible. When a man says, 'Aawh!,' Shaytan laughs at him."
Commentary on Sneezing
The scholars explain that sneezing is beloved to Allah because it brings relief to the body and expels harmful vapors. The natural response of praising Allah (saying "Alhamdulillah") demonstrates gratitude for this bodily function. The response "Yarhamukallah" (May Allah have mercy on you) is an established communal right (haq) upon Muslims, creating bonds of brotherhood and mutual prayer.
Commentary on Yawning
Yawning is disliked as it indicates laziness and lethargy, often preceding prayer or worship. Scholars state that yawning originates from satanic influence and fullness of the stomach. The command to suppress yawning teaches self-discipline and resistance against satanic whispers. Emitting loud sounds during yawning ("Aawh") is particularly reprehensible as it pleases Shaytan.
Practical Rulings
When sneezing, one must praise Allah audibly. The respondent must answer within hearing range. If a non-Muslim sneezes and praises Allah, Muslims may respond. When yawning, cover the mouth with the right hand or garment. Suppress the yawn completely if possible. Avoid vocalization during yawning as this constitutes imitation of Shaytan's delight.
Spiritual Dimensions
This hadith illustrates how mundane actions reflect spiritual realities. Sneezing represents divine favor requiring gratitude, while yawning represents satanic influence requiring resistance. The contrast teaches awareness of Allah's preferences in all matters, however small. The communal response to sneezing fosters Islamic social etiquette and mutual care among believers.