`Abdullah bin `Umar said, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) took hold of my shoulder and said, 'Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler." The sub-narrator added: Ibn `Umar used to say, "If you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening, and take from your health for your sickness, and (take) from your life for your death."
Hadith Commentary: The Stranger's Mentality
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 6416, found in the book "To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)," contains essential guidance for the believer's worldly conduct. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) physically emphasized this teaching by holding Ibn Umar's shoulder, indicating its paramount importance.
"Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler" establishes the proper orientation of the Muslim's heart. A stranger doesn't become attached to temporary accommodations, knowing his stay is brief. Similarly, a traveler carries only essential provisions, avoiding unnecessary burdens. This metaphor teaches detachment from worldly embellishments while fulfilling necessary obligations.
Ibn Umar's Practical Application
Ibn Umar's additional explanation demonstrates how he internalized this teaching: "If you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening." This reflects constant death-awareness (muraqabat al-mawt), which prevents procrastination in righteous deeds and extinguishes worldly greed.
"Take from your health for your sickness" urges utilizing periods of wellness for worship that becomes difficult during illness. "Take from your life for your death" emphasizes preparing for the eternal abode through obedience to Allah before death arrives unexpectedly. This comprehensive approach transforms the believer's entire perspective on time, health, and life's purpose.
Scholarly Insights
Classical scholars explain that this hadith doesn't advocate complete abandonment of worldly affairs, but rather cultivating inner detachment while fulfilling responsibilities. The stranger works for his needs but doesn't emotionally invest in temporary matters. The traveler enjoys the journey but constantly remembers his final destination.
This teaching produces several spiritual benefits: it weakens love for this world, strengthens orientation toward the Hereafter, increases gratitude for blessings, encourages preparedness for death, and purifies intentions in all actions. When implemented properly, it becomes a powerful remedy against heedlessness and worldly attachment.