Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Extinguish the lamps when you go to bed; close your doors; tie the mouths of your water skins, and cover the food and drinks." I think he added, ". . . even with a stick you place across the container."
Hadith Commentary: Sahih al-Bukhari 5624
This profound narration from the Book of Drinks contains comprehensive guidance for household safety and preservation of blessings. The Prophet's instructions demonstrate Islam's practical wisdom in daily affairs.
Extinguishing Lamps
Scholars explain that extinguishing lamps before sleep prevents potential fires that could endanger lives and property. This reflects the Islamic principle of preserving life (hifdh al-nafs) and wealth (hifdh al-mal). The precautionary measure teaches believers to eliminate hazards even when risk seems remote.
Closing Doors
Closing doors serves multiple purposes: protection from theft, prevention of harmful creatures entering, and maintaining family privacy. Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes this also has spiritual dimensions, as closed doors limit the entry of evil influences and jinn during nighttime.
Covering Vessels
The command to cover food, drink, and water skins preserves purity and prevents contamination. Classical commentators emphasize that uncovered containers may be accessed by harmful creatures or evil jinn. Covering vessels, even minimally with a stick, demonstrates that the essential is taking precaution, regardless of the means.
Comprehensive Wisdom
This hadith collectively teaches: taking reasonable precautions demonstrates tawakkul (trust in Allah) while fulfilling necessary causes. The Prophet's guidance covers fire safety, home security, and food hygiene - matters relevant across all times. Each instruction embodies the Islamic balance between spiritual reliance and practical responsibility.