Hadith Text - Sahih al-Bukhari 3445

"I heard the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, 'Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a Slave. So, call me the Slave of Allah and His Apostle.'"

Context and Background

This profound hadith from the Book of Prophets in Sahih al-Bukhari addresses a fundamental principle of Islamic creed - maintaining proper boundaries in venerating prophets and avoiding shirk (associating partners with Allah).

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) delivered this warning during a time when some companions were beginning to express their love for him in elevated terms that risked crossing into exaggeration.

Scholarly Commentary

The prohibition against "exaggeration in praising" refers to elevating the Prophet beyond his human status as Allah's slave and messenger. Scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that this includes attributing divine qualities or engaging in worshipful acts directed toward the Prophet.

The specific reference to Christians' praise of Jesus serves as a cautionary example. While Muslims honor Jesus as a noble prophet, Christians elevated him to divine status - a clear violation of tawhid (monotheism).

The instruction to call him "the Slave of Allah and His Apostle" establishes the proper balance: recognizing his honored position as Allah's final messenger while maintaining his essential humanity and servitude to Allah.

Practical Implications

This teaching guides Muslims to love and respect the Prophet (ﷺ) within Islamic boundaries - following his Sunnah, sending blessings upon him, and recognizing his excellence among creation, without crossing into exaggeration that compromises monotheism.

Scholars emphasize that proper love for the Prophet manifests in obedience to his teachings and emulation of his character, not in hyperbolic praise that contradicts the Quranic description of him as human.