Accepting Information Given by a Truthful Person

Sahih al-Bukhari 7251

Historical Context

This narration describes the momentous occasion when the qibla (direction of prayer) was changed from Jerusalem (referred to as "Sham") to the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. This occurred approximately sixteen months after the Hijrah, while the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the Muslims were praying the Fajr prayer in the mosque at Quba'.

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith establishes a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence: the obligation to accept and act upon information conveyed by a single, trustworthy individual (khabar al-wāḥid). The Companions did not question the messenger's credibility or demand multiple witnesses; they immediately complied upon hearing his report.

The immediate and unanimous action of turning towards the Ka'bah mid-prayer demonstrates the absolute authority of a divine command and the profound obedience of the early Muslim community. Scholars highlight that this event also signifies the distinct identity of the Muslim Ummah, as the Ka'bah, built by Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail (peace be upon them), was restored as its spiritual focal point.

Furthermore, this incident illustrates the permissibility of changing one's direction during prayer upon receiving definitive evidence of the correct qibla, a ruling derived from the Companions' action.

Spiritual Significance

The change of the qibla represents a pivotal moment of divine favor, answering the Prophet's ﷺ longing to face the Ancient House. It symbolizes the completion of Allah's blessing upon the believers and serves as a test of faith, separating those who would follow the divine command from those who would object. The unity displayed by the community in instantly obeying the command, without hesitation, is a timeless model of submission to Allah's will.