The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Allah has forbidden you ( 1 ) to be undutiful to your mothers (2) to withhold (what you should give) or (3) demand (what you do not deserve), and (4) to bury your daughters alive. And Allah has disliked that (A) you talk too much about others ( B), ask too many questions (in religion), or (C) waste your property."
Hadith Commentary: Sahih al-Bukhari 5975
This profound narration from the Book of Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab) in Sahih al-Bukhari enumerates major prohibitions and disliked matters in Islam, serving as a comprehensive guide to moral conduct.
The Four Major Prohibitions
Undutifulness to Mothers: The Prophet specifically mentions mothers, highlighting their supreme status in Islam. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that this particular mention emphasizes the mother's greater right to kindness due to the hardships she endures in pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing.
Withholding What is Due: This encompasses failing to pay zakat, not fulfilling financial obligations, withholding rights of spouses, employees, or any due amounts. Al-Qurtubi states this prohibition maintains social justice and prevents economic oppression.
Demanding the Undeserved: Seeking what one has no right to, whether property, status, or privileges. Imam Nawawi clarifies this includes begging while capable of working and making false claims.
Burying Daughters Alive: A reference to the pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide. Scholars extend this to all forms of harming children, especially females, and any modern practices that devalue women.
The Three Disliked Matters
Excessive Talk About Others: This primarily refers to backbiting (ghibah) and slander. Al-Ghazali explains that the tongue can destroy good deeds faster than any other organ, making careful speech essential for spiritual purity.
Asking Too Many Questions: Referring to unnecessary theological inquiries that may lead to confusion or innovation. Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes this prevents delving into matters beyond human comprehension that could weaken faith.
Wasting Property: Includes extravagance, spending on unlawful matters, and negligent management of wealth. Scholars emphasize that wealth is a trust from Allah and must be used responsibly for permissible purposes.
Scholarly Insights
This hadith combines both major sins (the prohibitions) and matters leading to sin (the disliked acts). The structure shows how small negligence can lead to major transgressions. The comprehensive nature covers duties toward Allah, parents, society, and oneself, making it a miniature guide to Islamic ethics.