I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, "The good deeds of any person will not make him enter Paradise." (i.e., None can enter Paradise through his good deeds.) They (the Prophet's companions) said, 'Not even you, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)?' He said, "Not even myself, unless Allah bestows His favor and mercy on me." So be moderate in your religious deeds and do the deeds that are within your ability: and none of you should wish for death, for if he is a good doer, he may increase his good deeds, and if he is an evil doer, he may repent to Allah."
Exposition of the Hadith
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (5673) contains essential teachings about divine mercy, moderation in worship, and the prohibition of wishing for death. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) begins by declaring that no one's good deeds alone can secure entry into Paradise, establishing the fundamental Islamic principle that salvation comes through Allah's mercy rather than human merit alone.
Theological Implications
When the companions asked "Not even you, O Allah's Messenger?" they demonstrated their reverence for the Prophet while seeking clarification. The Prophet's response "Not even myself" establishes that even prophets rely on divine grace. This eliminates spiritual arrogance and reinforces tawakkul (reliance on Allah).
This teaching balances between two extremes: complacency in sin based on hope of mercy, and despair of attaining salvation. The correct path is to strive in obedience while recognizing that ultimate acceptance depends on Allah's favor.
Practical Guidance
"Be moderate in your religious deeds" instructs believers to adopt sustainable worship practices rather than extreme asceticism that leads to burnout. The Prophet emphasized consistency over intensity, as Allah loves most those deeds done consistently even if small.
"Do the deeds that are within your ability" acknowledges human limitations while encouraging steady progress. This accommodates different capacities and circumstances among believers.
Prohibition of Wishing for Death
The prohibition against wishing for death serves multiple wisdoms: For the righteous, continued life provides opportunities to increase good deeds. For sinners, it allows time for repentance and reform. This teaching encourages optimism and active engagement with life's tests as opportunities for spiritual growth.
This comprehensive guidance from the Book of Patients in Sahih al-Bukhari provides a balanced approach to worship, hope, and spiritual development that remains relevant for all times and circumstances.