`Abdullah bin `Umar said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'Fever is from the heat of Hell, so put it out (cool it) with water.' " Nafi` added: `Abdullah used to say, "O Allah! Relieve us from the punishment," (when he suffered from fever).
Hadith Commentary: Sahih al-Bukhari 5723
This narration from the Book of Medicine in Sahih al-Bukhari contains profound wisdom regarding both the spiritual and physical dimensions of illness. The statement "Fever is from the heat of Hell" serves as a powerful reminder of the severity of divine punishment, encouraging believers to seek refuge in Allah from such torment.
Metaphorical Interpretation
Scholars explain that this description is metaphorical rather than literal, indicating that fever shares qualities with Hell's heat in intensity and discomfort. This comparison serves to humble the believer and remind them of the hereafter while experiencing physical distress.
The prophetic instruction to cool fever with water demonstrates the Islamic principle of combining spiritual reflection with practical treatment. This aligns with the comprehensive Islamic approach to healing that integrates divine reliance with utilizing permissible means.
Practical Application
`Abdullah bin `Umar's practice of saying "O Allah! Relieve us from the punishment" when afflicted with fever exemplifies how companions transformed physical ailments into opportunities for spiritual connection and supplication.
This teaching establishes the permissibility and virtue of using water therapy for fevers while maintaining awareness of Allah's power over all afflictions. The integration of physical treatment with spiritual consciousness reflects the balanced Islamic worldview.