A man came to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) asking him about Islam, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "You have to offer five compulsory prayers in a day and a night (24 hours)." The man asked, "Is there any more compulsory prayers for me?" Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "No, unless you like to offer Nawafil (i.e. optional prayers)." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) then added, "You have to observe fasts during the month of Ramadan." The man said, "Am I to fast any other days?' Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "No, unless you wish to observe the optional fast voluntarily." Then Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) told him about the compulsory Zakat. The man asked, "Do I have to give anything besides?" Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "No, unless you wish to give in charity voluntarily." So, the man departed saying, "By Allah I will neither do more nor less than that." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "If he has said the truth he will be successful."
The Hadith of Jibrīl: Foundations of Islam
This narration from Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī (2678) presents the fundamental pillars of Islamic worship through a profound dialogue between the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and an inquiring companion. The exchange demonstrates the perfect balance between obligatory acts (farā'iḍ) and voluntary deeds (nawāfil) in the sacred law.
Scholarly Commentary on the Five Pillars
The five daily prayers constitute the foundation of a Muslim's relationship with Allah. Scholars note that the specification of five prayers—neither increased nor decreased—reflects divine wisdom in establishing a rhythm of remembrance throughout the day while accommodating human nature.
Regarding fasting, the exclusive obligation of Ramadan demonstrates Allah's mercy. Voluntary fasts, while meritorious, remain secondary to the prescribed month, allowing flexibility while maintaining spiritual discipline.
The compulsory Zakāt represents the economic pillar of Islam. The Prophet's clarification that no additional obligatory charity exists beyond the prescribed amounts protects the community from extremism while encouraging voluntary generosity.
The Wisdom in "Neither More Nor Less"
The man's declaration to perform exactly what was prescribed reflects profound understanding. Classical scholars interpret this as perfect adherence to the Sunnah—avoiding both negligence and exaggeration. The Prophet's affirmation of this approach validates the middle path in worship.
Imam al-Nawawī comments that this narration establishes the principle that exceeding religious obligations without authorization constitutes innovation (bid'ah), while neglecting them constitutes disobedience (ma'siyah). True success lies in perfect balance.