The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I looked into Paradise and found that the majority of its dwellers were the poor people, and I looked into the (Hell) Fire and found that the majority of its dwellers were women."
Context and Significance
This profound hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari's "To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)" (Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 6449) was narrated during the Prophet's miraculous Night Journey (Isra' wal-Mi'raj). The vision was granted by Allah to show realities beyond ordinary perception.
The mention of poor people forming the majority in Paradise serves to console the impoverished Companions and emphasize that worldly deprivation, when met with patience and faith, becomes a means of spiritual elevation and ultimate reward.
Exposition: The Poor in Paradise
Scholars explain that "poor" (fuqara') here refers primarily to those lacking worldly means while maintaining strong faith. Their prevalence in Paradise stems from several factors: fewer distractions from worship, greater reliance on Allah, less accountability for wealth management, and frequent tests that purify sins.
This doesn't imply exclusion of wealthy believers, but highlights how poverty - when endured with righteousness - becomes a spiritual advantage. The Prophet himself praised balanced poverty that doesn't lead to begging.
Exposition: Women in Hellfire
Classical commentators clarify this refers to disobedient women, not all women. Scholars like Ibn Hajar identify key reasons: ingratitude toward husbands' kindness, tendency toward gossip and cursing, and showing disbelief in good treatment.
The "majority" designation reflects statistical reality rather than inherent nature. Many women will be among the highest ranks of Paradise - including Khadijah, Fatimah, Maryam, and Asiyah. The warning aims to encourage spiritual reform among both genders.
Spiritual Lessons
Wealth isn't inherently evil, but its dangers require extra spiritual vigilance. Poverty isn't automatically virtuous, but its potential benefits should be recognized.
The hadith ultimately teaches divine justice: Allah rewards the patient poor and holds everyone accountable for their choices. It calls believers to prioritize eternal outcomes over temporary worldly conditions.