that he was a boy of ten at the time when the Prophet (ﷺ) emigrated to Medina. He added: I served Allah's Apostle for ten years (the last part of his life time) and I know more than the people about the occasion whereupon the order of Al-Hijab was revealed (to the Prophet). Ubai b n Ka`b used to ask me about it. It was revealed (for the first time) during the marriage of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) with Zainab bint Jahsh. In the morning, the Prophet (ﷺ) was a bride-groom of her and he Invited the people, who took their meals and went away, but a group of them remained with Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and they prolonged their stay. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) got up and went out, and I too, went out along with him till he came to the lintel of `Aisha's dwelling place. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) thought that those people had left by then, so he returned, and I too, returned with him till he entered upon Zainab and found that they were still sitting there and had not yet gone. The Prophet (ﷺ) went out again, and so did I with him till he reached the lintel of `Aisha's dwelling place, and then he thought that those people must have left by then, so he returned, and so did I with him, and found those people had gone. At that time the Divine Verse of Al-Hijab was revealed, and the Prophet (ﷺ) set a screen between me and him (his family).
Asking Permission - Sahih al-Bukhari 6238
This narration from Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) provides crucial historical context for the revelation of the Hijab verses. As one who served the Prophet ﷺ during his final ten years in Medina, Anas possessed unique firsthand knowledge of this significant event in Islamic legislation.
Occasion of Revelation
The Hijab verses were revealed during the Prophet's marriage to Zainab bint Jahsh (may Allah be pleased with her). After the wedding feast, some guests remained longer than appropriate, causing the Prophet discomfort. His repeated exits and returns demonstrate the need for privacy in marital life and the importance of recognizing social cues when visiting others.
Divine Wisdom in Gradual Legislation
This incident illustrates Allah's wisdom in revealing rulings gradually, addressing specific situations as they occurred. The Hijab wasn't imposed abruptly but came as a solution to a real social situation, making it easier for the companions to understand and implement.
Practical Implementation
Immediately after the revelation, the Prophet ﷺ practically demonstrated the ruling by placing a screen between himself and Anas, teaching by example. This immediate implementation emphasizes the importance of acting upon divine commandments without delay.
Ethical Lessons
The narration teaches visitors to be mindful of their hosts' privacy and comfort, to recognize subtle hints for departure, and to avoid overstaying their welcome. It also establishes the Islamic etiquette of seeking permission before entering private spaces.