Hadith Text & Context

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "He who eats seven 'Ajwa dates every morning, will not be affected by poison or magic on the day he eats them." (Sahih al-Bukhari 5445)

This hadith from the chapter "Food, Meals" in Sahih al-Bukhari highlights the special blessing of 'Ajwa dates, a specific variety grown in Medina.

Scholarly Commentary

The scholars explain that 'Ajwa dates possess unique medicinal and spiritual properties by Allah's decree. This protection is a divine favor (tawfiq) from Allah, not an inherent property of the dates themselves.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the protection is specific to 'Ajwa dates from Medina and applies only to the day of consumption. The number seven holds significance in Islamic tradition, often representing completeness.

Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that this protection operates within the framework of divine decree (qadar). One should not test this blessing recklessly but trust in Allah's promise while taking normal precautions.

Practical Implications

This practice is a form of prophetic medicine (al-tibb al-nabawi) that combines physical nutrition with spiritual protection when performed with sincere faith and proper intention.

Scholars caution that this should not lead to negligence in seeking medical treatment or protection through lawful means, as the Prophet (ﷺ) instructed us to take necessary precautions.