The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "He who is not merciful to others, will not be treated mercifully.
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "He who is not merciful to others, will not be treated mercifully."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6013 | Book: Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab)
Commentary on the Meaning
This profound hadith establishes a fundamental principle of divine justice and human interaction. The mercy shown by Allah to His servants is directly connected to the mercy they demonstrate toward His creation. This encompasses all beings - humans, animals, and even the environment.
Scholars explain that this encompasses both worldly and hereafter consequences. In this life, one who lacks mercy finds his heart hardened and relationships strained. In the hereafter, the ultimate mercy of Paradise may be denied to those who withheld mercy from Allah's creation.
Scope of Mercy Required
The mercy mentioned extends to parents, children, spouses, relatives, neighbors, orphans, the poor, and even animals. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this includes showing compassion to the young, respecting the elderly, assisting the needy, and being gentle with all living creatures.
Al-Nawawi emphasizes that this mercy must be genuine, emanating from the heart, not merely superficial actions. It includes forgiving wrongs, overlooking faults, and wishing well for others.
Divine Connection
This hadith connects human behavior directly to divine treatment. As Allah is Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), He loves those who embody this attribute. The quality of mercy becomes a means through which believers attain Allah's mercy and forgiveness.
Scholars note that this principle operates both in this world and the next. The one who shows mercy finds mercy in his dealings with people and ultimately from his Lord on the Day of Judgment.
Practical Implementation
Practical applications include: speaking kindly, feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, comforting the grieving, being patient with others' shortcomings, and showing compassion to animals by providing proper care and avoiding harm.
This hadith serves as a powerful reminder that our treatment of others directly influences how Allah will treat us, making mercy not just a virtue but a necessary component of faith.