Hadith Text

"I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, 'All of you are guardians and responsible for your charges: the Ruler (i.e. Imam) is a guardian and responsible for his subjects; and a man is a guardian of his family and is responsible for his charges; and a lady is a guardian in the house of her husband and is responsible for her charge; and a servant is a guardian of the property of his master and is responsible for his charge.' I think he also said, 'And a man is a guardian of the property of his father.'"

Source Reference

Book: Wills and Testaments (Wasaayaa)

Author: Sahih al-Bukhari

Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 2751

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the comprehensive Islamic principle of responsibility (amanah) that permeates all levels of society. The Prophet (ﷺ) delineates various spheres of guardianship, demonstrating that every individual bears responsibility according to their capacity and position.

The ruler's guardianship over his subjects encompasses ensuring justice, protecting rights, and governing according to Islamic principles. The man's guardianship over his family includes providing religious education, material sustenance, and moral guidance. The woman's guardianship in her husband's household involves managing domestic affairs and preserving family honor.

The servant's responsibility over his master's property emphasizes the Islamic work ethic, where even employees must fulfill their duties with honesty and diligence. The additional mention of a man's guardianship over his father's property highlights the importance of preserving family wealth and using it responsibly.

This hadith forms the foundation for understanding trusteeship in Islam, reminding believers that they will be accountable before Allah for how they discharged their responsibilities in their respective domains.