A drink (milk mixed with water) was brought to the Prophet (ﷺ) who drank some of it while a boy was sitting on his right and old men on his left. The Prophet (ﷺ) said to the boy, "If you permit me, I'll give (the rest of the drink to) these old men first." The boy said, "I will not give preference to any one over me as regards my share from you, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)!" The Prophet (ﷺ) then put that container in the boy's hand. (See Hadith No. 541).
Hadith Context and Significance
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 2602 demonstrates the Prophet's exemplary manners in honoring the rights of others, even when dealing with a young child. The Prophet (ﷺ) did not assert his authority but rather sought permission, teaching us the importance of respecting others' rights regardless of their age or status.
Scholarly Commentary on Etiquette
Classical scholars explain that the right side holds preference in Islamic etiquette, as established by the Prophet's practice. The boy was sitting in the position of honor, and the Prophet recognized this.
Imam al-Nawawi comments that this hadith establishes the principle that when drinking is shared, those on the right have priority unless they willingly relinquish their right.
Pedagogical Wisdom
The Prophet's approach demonstrates profound educational methodology. Rather than commanding, he consulted and educated through practical example.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes in Fath al-Bari that the Prophet's action taught both the boy and the elders about rights, consultation, and mutual respect in a single beautiful interaction.
Legal Implications
Scholars derive from this that the right of the person on one's right takes precedence in matters of food and drink distribution.
The boy's firm response, while seemingly bold, was actually an assertion of a legitimate right that the Prophet immediately honored, establishing that rights in Islam are sacred regardless of the claimant's age.