Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ordered us to do seven things and forbade us to do other seven. He ordered us: to follow the funeral procession. to visit the sick, to accept invitations, to help the oppressed, to fulfill the oaths, to return the greeting and to reply to the sneezer: (saying, "May Allah be merciful on you," provided the sneezer says, "All the praises are for Allah,"). He forbade us to use silver utensils and dishes and to wear golden rings, silk (clothes), Dibaj (pure silk cloth), Qissi and Istabraq (two kinds of silk cloths).
Hadith Commentary: The Seven Commands & Prohibitions
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 1239 in the Book of Funerals (Al-Janaa'iz) contains profound wisdom regarding social obligations and spiritual refinement. The Prophet (ﷺ) systematically outlined seven affirmative commandments and seven prohibitions to establish a complete framework for Muslim conduct.
Commentary on the Seven Commands
Following Funeral Processions: This act embodies communal responsibility, reminds of the Hereafter, and honors the deceased through collective prayer and accompaniment.
Visiting the Sick: A duty that strengthens brotherhood, earns divine reward, and provides comfort to the afflicted while reminding visitors of life's fragility.
Accepting Invitations: Fosters social harmony and maintains kinship ties, unless the invitation involves something unlawful.
Helping the Oppressed: A fundamental Islamic obligation to establish justice and relieve suffering, whether through physical aid, verbal support, or prayer.
Fulfilling Oaths: Maintains truthfulness and trustworthiness in all commitments made in Allah's name.
Returning Greetings: The Islamic greeting "As-salamu alaykum" must be reciprocated, often with a better response, to spread peace and goodwill.
Responding to Sneezers: This unique etiquette strengthens social bonds and invokes Allah's mercy upon one who praises Him after sneezing.
Commentary on the Seven Prohibitions
Silver Utensils: Forbidden for men to use in eating/drinking as it indicates extravagance and resembles the practices of arrogant rulers.
Golden Rings: Prohibited for Muslim men as gold adornment is exclusively permitted for women, preventing imitation of feminine practices.
Silk Garments: Haram for men due to its luxurious nature which may lead to arrogance and softness contrary to masculine dignity in Islam.
Dibaj, Qissi, Istabraq: These specific types of luxurious silk cloth are particularly prohibited, emphasizing the prohibition extends to all silk varieties for men.
Scholarly Insights
The scholars note that these commandments and prohibitions collectively address both individual spirituality and social responsibility. The affirmative commands build communal bonds and personal character, while the prohibitions prevent extravagance, pride, and gender confusion. This comprehensive guidance reflects Islam's balanced approach to material and spiritual life.