Exposition of the Hadith

This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari (7141) contains profound guidance from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) regarding the only permissible forms of emulation in a Muslim's life. The prohibition against wishing to be like others stems from the danger of coveting what Allah has exclusively apportioned to others, which may lead to discontent with Divine Decree.

The Two Permissible Exceptions

The first exception concerns the wealthy person who disburses his wealth in obedience to Allah. Scholars explain that this refers to one who fulfills the obligatory charities (zakat) and exceeds in voluntary charity, using wealth as a means to draw nearer to Allah rather than for worldly adornment.

The second exception pertains to the possessor of divine wisdom - specifically knowledge of Quran and Sunnah. The condition is threefold: he must implement this knowledge himself, act upon its injunctions, and propagate it to others. This reflects the comprehensive nature of beneficial knowledge that must manifest in practice and teaching.

Scholarly Insights

Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments in Fath al-Bari that these two exceptions represent the two primary means of attaining nearness to Allah: wealth through spending in His cause, and knowledge through learning, practicing, and teaching.

Scholars note that the hadith directs Muslims to value spiritual and eternal merits over worldly appearances. The emphasis is on the utilization of blessings rather than the blessings themselves, teaching contentment with one's provision while striving to use whatever blessings one possesses in Allah's service.

Practical Application

This hadith encourages Muslims to evaluate their aspirations and redirect them toward what is pleasing to Allah. Rather than envying others' worldly status, one should aspire to emulate those who utilize their blessings - whether wealth or knowledge - in ways that earn divine pleasure and benefit the Muslim community.