The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Facilitate things to people (concerning religious matters), and do not make it hard for them and give them good tidings and do not make them run away (from Islam).
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Facilitate things to people (concerning religious matters), and do not make it hard for them and give them good tidings and do not make them run away (from Islam)."
Source & Context
This hadith is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Knowledge, Hadith 69. It was narrated during the early Islamic period when people were newly embracing Islam, emphasizing the need for gentle guidance.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam al-Nawawi explains this hadith demonstrates Islam's fundamental principle of ease (taysīr) in religious matters. Scholars interpret "facilitate" as removing unnecessary hardships while maintaining religious obligations.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes the prohibition against making religion difficult prevents creating extra obligations beyond what Allah has prescribed, which could deter people from Islam.
The command to "give good tidings" refers to emphasizing Allah's mercy and rewards rather than focusing exclusively on punishment, creating balanced spiritual development.
Practical Applications
Teachers and scholars should present Islamic knowledge gradually, considering students' capabilities and circumstances.
New Muslims should be welcomed with compassion and given time to learn practices rather than being overwhelmed.
Legal rulings (fatāwā) should consider people's situations and offer alternatives where legitimate, following the principle of removing hardship.