The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately, and receive good news because one's good deeds will not make him enter Paradise." They asked, "Even you, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)?" He said, "Even I, unless and until Allah bestows His pardon and Mercy on me."
Hadith Text and Context
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately, and receive good news because one's good deeds will not make him enter Paradise." They asked, "Even you, O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)?" He said, "Even I, unless and until Allah bestows His pardon and Mercy on me." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6467)
Commentary on the Opening Instruction
"Do good deeds properly" (Ikhlas) means performing acts purely for Allah's sake without ostentation. "Sincerely" (Sidq) indicates truthfulness in intention and action. "Moderately" (Qasd) refers to consistent, balanced worship without extremism that leads to burnout.
The Profound Declaration
The statement "one's good deeds will not make him enter Paradise" appears paradoxical but contains deep wisdom. It teaches that no deed, however great, can obligate Allah to grant Paradise. Entrance is ultimately through Divine Mercy, not human merit alone.
The Companions' Question and Response
When the Companions asked "Even you, O Allah's Messenger?" they demonstrated their reverence for the Prophet. His response "Even I" humbles all creation, showing that even the most perfect human relies entirely on Allah's mercy, not his own perfection.
Scholarly Insights
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that this hadith combines hope and fear - we strive in good deeds while recognizing our ultimate dependence on Allah's pardon. Good deeds become the means through which Allah bestows His mercy, not the price for Paradise.
Practical Implications
This teaching prevents spiritual arrogance and maintains proper reliance on Allah. It encourages consistent good deeds while cultivating humility. The believer works diligently yet recognizes that success comes from Allah's grace, not personal achievement.