The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "I looked at Paradise and saw that the majority of its residents were the poor; and I looked at the (Hell) Fire and saw that the majority of its residents were women."
Hadith Context & Authenticity
This narration is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari (5198) and Sahih Muslim, establishing its authenticity through multiple chains of transmission. The Prophet (ﷺ) received this vision during his miraculous Night Journey (Isra' wal-Mi'raj), where Allah granted him divine insight into the unseen realms.
Scholarly Commentary on Paradise's Residents
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that the "poor" (fuqara) here refers primarily to those possessing spiritual poverty and humility before Allah, not merely material deprivation. Their prevalence in Paradise stems from their greater reliance on Allah, detachment from worldly distractions, and easier fulfillment of religious obligations.
Al-Qurtubi notes that worldly wealth often becomes a trial that distracts from worship, while poverty cultivates patience and dependence on Allah's mercy - qualities highly rewarded in the Hereafter.
Understanding the Women in Hell-Fire
Classical scholars like Imam an-Nawawi emphasize this description is statistical, not condemnatory. It indicates a greater propensity, not destiny. Many women will enter Paradise, and many men will enter Hell-Fire.
Ibn al-Jawzi identifies key spiritual challenges particular to women's nature: ungratefulness to husbands (kufran al-'ashir), excessive talking that leads to sins, and being easily influenced in religious matters. These become pathways to disobedience if not checked.
Balancing Perspectives & Solutions
This hadith serves as a warning, not a final judgment. The Prophet (ﷺ) immediately followed such narrations with practical guidance for women to increase good deeds and avoid these pitfalls through gratitude, controlled speech, and religious knowledge.
Scholars stress that women who fulfill their religious obligations - particularly the five pillars, modest dress, and family duties - are guaranteed Paradise. The majority mentioned refers to those negligent in these matters, not the righteous believers among them.