The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I am closer to the believers than their selves in this world and in the Hereafter, and if you like, you can read Allah's Statement: "The Prophet (ﷺ) is closer to the believers than their own selves." (33.6) So, if a true believer dies and leaves behind some property, it will be for his inheritors (from the father's side), and if he leaves behind some debt to be paid or needy offspring, then they should come to me as I am the guardian of the deceased."
Hadith Text and Context
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I am closer to the believers than their selves in this world and in the Hereafter, and if you like, you can read Allah's Statement: 'The Prophet (ﷺ) is closer to the believers than their own selves.' (33:6) So, if a true believer dies and leaves behind some property, it will be for his inheritors (from the father's side), and if he leaves behind some debt to be paid or needy offspring, then they should come to me as I am the guardian of the deceased."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 2399 from the book "Loans, Payment of Loans, Freezing of Property, Bankruptcy" by Sahih al-Bukhari.
Explanation of Prophetic Guardianship
This hadith establishes the unique spiritual and legal position of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the ultimate guardian (wali) of the Muslim community. The phrase "closer than their own selves" indicates that the Prophet's concern for believers' welfare surpasses even their self-interest.
The reference to Quran 33:6 confirms this special relationship, establishing that the Prophet's guardianship takes precedence over all other worldly relationships in matters of religious guidance and community welfare.
Inheritance and Debt Resolution
The hadith clarifies the proper distribution of inheritance: lawful heirs receive their rightful shares according to Islamic law. However, when debts remain unpaid or orphaned children need support, the Prophet as community leader assumes responsibility.
This establishes the principle that resolving debts takes priority over inheritance distribution, and the community leadership (later represented by the Islamic state) must ensure creditors' rights and orphans' welfare are protected.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Scholars explain that during the Prophet's lifetime, he personally fulfilled this guardianship role. After his passing, this responsibility transferred to righteous Muslim rulers and legitimate Islamic governments who must establish systems for debt settlement and orphan care.
The hadith emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Islamic leadership - concerned not only with spiritual matters but also with practical financial and social welfare issues affecting the community.
Contemporary Application
In modern contexts, this teaching underscores the importance of establishing Islamic financial systems that ensure debt resolution before inheritance distribution, and social welfare programs that care for orphans and vulnerable members of society.
The principle reminds Muslims that community responsibility extends beyond individual families, creating a social safety net rooted in prophetic example and divine guidance.