She reported God's Messenger as saying, “The best of you is he who is best to his family, and I am the best among you to my family. When one of you dies speak no ill of him." Tirmidhi and Darimi transmitted it, and Ibn Majah transmitted it up to “to my family” on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbas.
Exposition of the Hadith on Family Excellence
This noble tradition from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the fundamental Islamic principle that true excellence is measured by one's conduct within the domestic sphere. The declaration "The best of you is he who is best to his family" elevates family relations from mere social convention to an act of worship and spiritual refinement.
The Prophetic Example
The Prophet's statement "I am the best among you to my family" serves as both a declaration and an invitation. It confirms his exemplary status while simultaneously making his conduct accessible to the ummah. Scholars note that this encompasses his treatment of wives, children, relatives, and household members - demonstrating kindness, justice, patience, and compassion in all domestic affairs.
Prohibition Against Speaking Ill of the Deceased
The instruction "When one of you dies speak no ill of him" reflects Islam's profound respect for human dignity that extends beyond earthly life. Classical commentators explain that this prohibition protects the deceased's honor, prevents harm to living relatives, and acknowledges that judgment belongs solely to Allah. It encourages focusing on the person's virtues and making sincere supplication for divine mercy.
Practical Implementation
Scholars derive from this hadith that excellence in family relations requires conscious effort in speech, financial provision, emotional support, and spiritual guidance. The family unit becomes the primary training ground for developing the noble character traits that Islam cultivates - making domestic virtue the foundation of social reform.