‘Abdallah b. ‘Amr reported God’s messenger as saying, “The hearts of all men are between two of the Compassionate’s fingers as if they were one heart which He turns about as He wills.” Then God’s messenger said, “O God, who turnest the hearts, turn our hearts to Thy obedience!” Muslim transmitted it.
Exposition of the Hadith
This profound narration from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) reveals the divine reality of human hearts being completely within Allah's control and direction, like a single heart between two fingers of the Most Merciful.
Metaphorical Interpretation
The imagery of hearts being between Allah's fingers signifies complete divine authority over human inclinations and spiritual states. Just as one easily turns an object held between fingers, Allah directs hearts according to His wisdom.
This metaphor emphasizes both Allah's absolute power and His intimate closeness to His creation - the "fingers" denoting gentle control rather than harsh compulsion, reflecting His attribute of Compassion.
Spiritual Implications
This teaching instills proper understanding of tawhid - recognizing that spiritual guidance ultimately comes from Allah alone, while humans remain responsible for seeking it.
The Prophet's subsequent supplication demonstrates the practical application: after acknowledging divine control over hearts, he immediately turned to prayer, showing believers how to combine recognition of divine decree with personal effort in worship.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars explain that this hadith does not negate human free will but clarifies the ultimate source of spiritual guidance. The heart's susceptibility to divine direction necessitates constant supplication for steadfastness in faith.
Imam Nawawi comments that this narration encourages persistence in asking Allah for firmness in religion, especially during times of spiritual fluctuation and doubt.