Hadith Text and Context

The noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 3166 states: "Whoever killed a person having a treaty with the Muslims, shall not smell the smell of Paradise though its smell is perceived from a distance of forty years." This profound warning concerns the sanctity of covenants (ʿuhūd) with non-Muslims under Muslim protection.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Qurṭubī explains that this hadith establishes the inviolability of the dhimmī (non-Muslim citizen) and muʿāhid (treaty-holder). The severe threat indicates the gravity of violating divine protection (amān).

Ibn Ḥajar al-ʿAsqalānī in Fatḥ al-Bārī clarifies that "forty years" symbolizes an immense distance, emphasizing the complete deprivation of Paradise for such transgressors unless they repent.

The prohibition applies regardless of whether the killing was intentional or mistaken, demonstrating Islam's emphasis on covenant preservation.

Legal Implications

This hadith forms the foundation for Islamic laws governing relations with non-Muslims under Muslim rule. It establishes that blood and wealth of dhimmīs are protected like those of Muslims.

Scholars derive from this that the killer must pay blood money (diyah) and seek forgiveness from Allah, though the spiritual consequence remains severe without sincere repentance.

Contemporary Relevance

This teaching emphasizes Islam's commitment to justice and covenant fulfillment. It reminds Muslims today of their responsibility to protect all citizens regardless of faith, upholding the Prophetic example of interfaith coexistence.