Hadith of Plague Prevention

Narrated `Abdullah bin `Abbas: `Umar went to Sham and when he reached Sargh, he got the news that an epidemic (of plague) had broken out in Sham. `Abdur-Rahman bin `Auf told him that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If you hear that it (plague) has broken out in a land, do not go to it; but if it breaks out in a land where you are present, do not go out escaping from it."

Commentary on the Prohibition

This noble hadith establishes two fundamental principles of Islamic quarantine: First, one must not enter a land afflicted by plague, and second, one must not flee from a land where plague has occurred. This demonstrates the wisdom of Islamic legislation in containing epidemics.

The prohibition against entering an afflicted area prevents the spread of disease to healthy populations, while the prohibition against fleeing ensures that infected individuals do not carry the disease to new areas. Both measures serve as divinely-inspired public health precautions.

Spiritual Dimensions

The scholars explain that remaining in the afflicted land while trusting in Allah's decree is an act of patience and submission. The one who dies from plague while remaining patient receives the reward of a martyr, as established in other authentic narrations.

This hadith beautifully balances practical preventive measures with spiritual rewards, showing Islam's comprehensive approach to both physical and spiritual well-being.

Historical Application

`Umar's immediate compliance upon hearing this Prophetic instruction demonstrates the importance of following religious guidance in matters of public health. His return from Sargh without entering Sham became a precedent for Muslim rulers throughout history in dealing with epidemics.

This incident also shows the methodology of the Companions in verifying and implementing Prophetic traditions, even when they contradicted their initial plans or worldly interests.