Hadith Text & Reference

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "One of the sayings of the prophets which the people have got is, 'If you do not feel ashamed, then do whatever you like."

Book: Prophets | Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 3484

Meaning & Significance

This profound statement traces back to earlier prophets, indicating its universal importance across divine revelations. The teaching establishes haya (modesty/shame) as the fundamental restraint preventing immoral actions.

When one loses the capacity for shame before Allah and creation, they remove the barrier between themselves and sin. The statement serves as both a warning and a criterion - if an action causes no shame before Allah, it is likely permissible.

Types of Haya (Modesty)

Haya min Allah: Shame before Allah's constant observation, knowing He sees all actions and intentions.

Haya min an-Nas: Shame before people, avoiding what brings disgrace in society.

Haya min al-Mala'ikah: Shame before the recording angels who document every deed.

Scholarly Commentary

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains this hadith indicates that haya is the foundation of all good character. When modesty is present, it prevents one from wrongdoing. When absent, no internal barrier remains against sin.

Al-Nawawi states this teaching shows haya is so essential that its absence makes one akin to animals without moral restraint. The prophets collectively emphasized this virtue as it protects faith and society.

The conditional "if you don't feel ashamed" implies that proper shame would naturally prevent one from doing what is displeasing to Allah, making the second part unnecessary for the righteous.