Sa‘d told of hearing God’s messenger say, “He who has a morning meal of seven 'ajwa* dates will not suffer harm that day through poison or magic." *The name of a good quality of Medina dates.(Bukhari and Muslim.)
Exposition of the Hadith on 'Ajwa Dates
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our Master Muhammad, his family, and companions.
This noble hadith, transmitted by the esteemed Companion Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas and recorded in the authentic collections of Bukhari and Muslim, contains profound wisdom regarding the blessings of 'ajwa dates from Medina.
The Excellence of 'Ajwa Dates
The 'ajwa date is a specific variety cultivated in Medina, distinguished by its superior quality and special blessings. Scholars note that the Prophet (peace be upon him) specified this type due to its unique properties and the divine blessings associated with it.
The number seven holds significance in Islamic tradition, representing completion and perfection. Consuming seven dates in the morning establishes a spiritual protection that lasts throughout the day.
Understanding the Protection
The protection mentioned encompasses both physical and spiritual harms. The reference to poison indicates protection from physical toxins, while protection from magic refers to spiritual afflictions caused by sihr (sorcery).
This protection operates through divine decree (tawfiq) rather than inherent properties of the dates themselves. The dates serve as a means (wasila) through which Allah bestows His protection upon the believer who follows the Prophetic guidance with sincere faith.
Scholarly Perspectives
Imam Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) explained in "Zaad al-Ma'ad" that this hadith demonstrates how Allah grants special properties to certain foods as blessings for His servants.
The Hanbali scholar Ibn Muflih emphasized that this protection is specific to those who consume the dates with faith in the Prophet's words and seeking blessings through following his Sunnah.
Practical Implementation
The recommended practice is to consume seven 'ajwa dates in the morning before eating any other food. If 'ajwa dates are unavailable, scholars permit substituting other dates while still hoping for Allah's mercy and protection.
This practice combines physical nourishment with spiritual devotion, embodying the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings that address both material and spiritual well-being.
Conclusion
This hadith from Mishkat al-Masabih 4190 illustrates the perfection of Prophetic guidance in all matters, including nutrition and protection. It reminds believers of the importance of following the Sunnah in daily life and trusting in Allah's protection through the means He has prescribed.
And Allah knows best. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and all his companions.