Once a tumbler (full of milk or water) was brought to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) who drank from it, while on his right side there was sitting a boy who was the youngest of those who were present, and on his left side there were old men. The Prophet (ﷺ) asked, "O boy ! Do you allow me to give (the drink) to the elder people (first)?" The boy said, "I will not prefer anybody to have my share from you, O Allah's Apostle!" So, he gave it to the boy.
Distribution of Water - Sahih al-Bukhari 2366
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari presents profound lessons in Islamic etiquette and social conduct. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) demonstrates the principle of seeking permission even from the youngest member of society, teaching us that age does not diminish one's rights. His question to the boy, "Do you allow me to give to the elder people first?" establishes the Islamic value of consent and respect for individual rights regardless of age.
Scholarly Commentary on Rights and Priorities
Classical scholars emphasize that the Prophet's action here illustrates that the right of possession takes precedence over the right of seniority. Although respecting elders is a fundamental Islamic principle, the one who possesses something has the primary right to it. The boy's response, while seemingly bold, was actually an assertion of his legitimate right, which the Prophet honored.
This hadith also teaches the proper methodology of da'wah (inviting to Islam) - through gentle persuasion rather than compulsion. The Prophet could have simply given the drink to the elders, but instead he educated through consultation and respect for individual choice.
Practical Applications in Water Distribution
In matters of resource distribution, this narration establishes that ownership rights must be respected before considerations of status or age. The scholars derive from this that when water or other resources are scarce, the rights of those who possess them or have prior claim must be honored first.
Furthermore, this incident demonstrates the Islamic teaching of beginning from the right in matters of distribution, as the Prophet naturally turned to the boy on his right first. This principle extends to many aspects of daily life in Islamic tradition.