`Umar bin Al-Khattab left for Sham, and when he reached a placed called Sargh, he came to know that there was an outbreak of an epidemic (of plague) in Sham. Then `AbdurRahman bin `Auf told him that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If you hear the news of an outbreak of an epidemic (plague) in a certain place, do not enter that place: and if the epidemic falls in a place while you are present in it, do not leave that place to escape from the epidemic." So `Umar returned from Sargh.
Tafsir of Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 6973
This narration from the Book "Tricks" in Sahih al-Bukhari contains profound wisdom regarding public health and divine decree. The command of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) establishes two fundamental principles: prevention through avoiding affected areas and containment through remaining in affected locations.
Scholarly Commentary on the Prohibition
When the Prophet (ﷺ) said "do not enter that place," this demonstrates the Islamic principle of taking preventive measures (wara'). Scholars like Imam An-Nawawi explain this as both protecting one's health and showing reliance on Allah's decree while taking lawful means of protection.
The prohibition to leave an affected area establishes the concept of quarantine in Islamic law. Classical scholars including Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani note this prevents the spread of disease to unaffected populations, showing Islam's concern for communal welfare.
Theological Implications
This hadith beautifully balances divine decree (qadar) with human responsibility. While we believe all matters are in Allah's hands, we are commanded to take appropriate measures. Scholars emphasize this demonstrates that tawakkul (reliance on Allah) requires taking lawful means.
`Umar's immediate compliance shows the importance of following Prophetic guidance without hesitation, even when it contradicts apparent benefits. This establishes the principle that Islamic rulings take precedence over personal judgment in religious matters.
Contemporary Application
Modern scholars apply this hadith to various public health scenarios, including pandemics. The principles established - containment and prevention - remain relevant in contemporary medical guidelines, demonstrating Islam's timeless guidance in matters of health and community protection.