Hadith of Intentions - Sahih al-Bukhari 6953

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 'O people! The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions, and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. So, whoever emigrated for Allah and His Apostle, then his emigration was for Allah and His Apostle, and whoever emigrated to take worldly benefit or for a woman to marry, then his emigration was for what he emigrated for.'

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith establishes the fundamental principle that all actions are judged by their intentions. Imam al-Nawawi states this is one of the most comprehensive hadiths in Islam, covering one-third of religious knowledge.

The emigration (hijrah) mentioned serves as an example - the same physical action yields different spiritual results based on intention. One who emigrates purely for Allah receives eternal reward, while one who emigrates for worldly gain receives only temporal benefit.

Scholars explain that intention distinguishes worship from habit, and determines whether an action is obligatory, recommended, or permissible. It transforms mundane activities into acts of worship when accompanied by proper intention to please Allah.

This teaching reminds believers to purify their intentions constantly, ensuring all deeds are performed sincerely for Allah alone, not for show, praise, or worldly gain.

Legal and Spiritual Implications

Intention is required for the validity of all acts of worship including prayer, fasting, pilgrimage, and charity.

Sincerity (ikhlas) in intention is the foundation of tawhid (monotheism), as it directs worship exclusively to Allah.

The hadith teaches accountability - each soul will be recompensed according to what it intended, emphasizing divine justice.