The Prophet (ﷺ) said during Hajjat-al-Wada`, "Let the people be quiet and listen to me. After me, do not become disbelievers, by striking (cutting) the necks of one another."
Blood Money (Ad-Diyat)
Sahih al-Bukhari 6869
Contextual Analysis
This profound statement was delivered during the Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat-al-Wadaʿ), the final pilgrimage of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This occasion marks the completion of the Islamic message and contains final guidance for the Muslim community.
The command "Let the people be quiet and listen to me" emphasizes the critical importance of this final message, requiring complete attention from all present and future generations of Muslims.
Scholarly Commentary
The warning "After me, do not become disbelievers" refers to the grave sin of Muslims killing one another. Classical scholars explain that while the killer does not become an absolute disbeliever (kāfir mutlaq), they commit an act of disbelief in terms of violating the sanctity of Muslim life.
"By striking (cutting) the necks of one another" uses powerful imagery to emphasize the severity of unlawful killing. Scholars note this includes any method of killing, not merely sword strokes.
This hadith establishes the absolute prohibition of Muslim bloodshed and serves as the foundation for the Islamic legal system of blood money (diyat) and retaliation (qisas) as prescribed alternatives to unlawful vengeance.
Legal Implications
This prohibition forms the basis of Islamic criminal law regarding homicide. The scholars derive from this that intentional murder requires retaliation (qisas) unless the victim's heirs forgive the offender or accept blood money.
Unintentional killing requires the payment of blood money (diyat) and expiation (kaffārah), preserving the sanctity of life while providing a measured response.
Spiritual Dimensions
The warning connects unlawful killing to disbelief, reminding believers that preserving Muslim life is fundamental to faith. Scholars emphasize that the Muslim community's unity and protection of one another's lives are essential religious obligations.
This final prophetic instruction serves as an eternal reminder of the sacred bond between Muslims and the severe consequences of violating this bond through bloodshed.