Commentary on the Hadith of Feeding, Visiting, and Freeing

This noble hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari, also referenced in Mishkat al-Masabih under the book of Funerals, contains three fundamental pillars of Islamic social responsibility that strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and demonstrate true faith.

The Command to Feed the Hungry

Feeding the hungry is among the greatest acts of charity and a means of drawing near to Allah. The scholars explain that this includes both providing food directly and facilitating means of sustenance for those in need.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments in Fath al-Bari that this obligation extends beyond mere recommendation, particularly when the hunger threatens life itself. The act demonstrates compassion and fulfills the rights of fellow Muslims.

Visiting the Sick: A Collective Duty

Visiting the sick is considered a communal obligation (fard kifayah) in Islamic law. Al-Nawawi states in his commentary that this visit comforts the afflicted, reminds them of divine reward, and strengthens communal ties.

The visitor benefits as well, for the Prophet taught that visiting the sick draws one closer to Paradise and serves as a reminder of one's own mortality and dependence upon Allah.

Freeing the Captive: The Highest Charity

Scholars classify freeing captives among the most virtuous forms of charity, as it liberates a human being from physical and spiritual bondage. This includes ransoming prisoners of war, freeing slaves, and assisting those unjustly imprisoned.

Imam al-Qurtubi explains that this commandment encompasses both physical captivity and metaphorical bondage to sin and ignorance. The ultimate captivity is that of the soul to worldly desires, and true freedom comes through submission to Allah.

Interconnection of These Acts

These three acts form a comprehensive system of social welfare: feeding addresses physical need, visiting addresses emotional and spiritual need, and freeing addresses the need for dignity and liberty.

Together, they represent the holistic approach Islam takes to human welfare, addressing the needs of body, heart, and soul while strengthening the fabric of the Muslim community.