Hadith Text and Reference

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If somebody innovates something which is not in harmony with the principles of our religion, that thing is rejected."

Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 2697 | Book: Peacemaking

Introduction to the Hadith

This profound hadith, narrated by the Mother of the Believers 'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), serves as a fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence. It establishes the criterion for accepting or rejecting any new matter introduced into the religion.

Meaning of "Innovation" (Bid'ah)

The Arabic term "bid'ah" refers to introducing something new into the religion that has no basis in the Qur'an, Sunnah, or consensus of the companions. This includes beliefs, worship practices, or religious customs not established by the Prophet (ﷺ).

Scholars distinguish between linguistic innovation (anything new) and religious innovation (specifically in matters of faith and worship). This hadith addresses the latter category.

The Criterion of Rejection

The phrase "not in harmony with the principles of our religion" indicates that any innovation must be measured against the established sources of Islam. If it contradicts the Qur'an, authentic Sunnah, or the understanding of the early Muslim community, it is automatically rejected.

This principle protects the purity of Islamic teachings from unauthorized additions and alterations that could lead to deviation from the straight path.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith establishes a great principle indicating that any invented matter in religion is rejected, and its practitioner is reprimanded.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali states that this includes every innovation introduced by people in matters of worship or beliefs, whether they claim it brings them closer to Allah or not.

The rejection applies regardless of whether the innovator had good intentions, as intentions do not make an innovation valid if it contradicts Islamic principles.

Practical Application

This principle guides Muslims to evaluate any new religious practice by comparing it with the teachings of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions.

It encourages adherence to the authentic Sunnah and cautions against introducing new forms of worship not practiced by the early generations.

The hadith serves as a protection against sectarianism and religious extremism by maintaining the original purity of Islamic teachings.