‘Umar reported the Prophet as saying, "Whenever a man is alone with a woman the devil makes a third.” Tirmidhi transmitted it.
Hadith Text & Transmission
'Umar reported the Prophet as saying, "Whenever a man is alone with a woman the devil makes a third." Tirmidhi transmitted it.
This narration is recorded in Mishkat al-Masabih 3118 and classified as hasan (sound) by Imam Tirmidhi.
Literal Interpretation
The phrase "makes a third" indicates that Satan becomes an active participant in such private gatherings between non-mahram men and women.
This refers to any situation where an unmarried man and woman are in complete privacy (khalwah) without any legitimate mahram present.
Spiritual Wisdom
Satan's presence manifests through whispering evil suggestions, inflaming passions, and weakening resolve against sin.
The hadith emphasizes that human nature is vulnerable to temptation when proper Islamic boundaries are disregarded.
Legal Implications
Scholars derive from this the prohibition of khalwah (seclusion) between non-mahram men and women.
This ruling applies regardless of age or presumed piety, as prevention is superior to treatment in Islamic law.
Practical Application
Muslims must avoid being alone with non-mahram individuals in closed rooms, vehicles, or isolated places.
Proper Islamic conduct requires maintaining physical and emotional boundaries to preserve chastity and honor.
Divine Protection
Observing this prohibition is a means of seeking Allah's protection from Satan's influence.
The wisdom behind this teaching preserves individual purity, family honor, and social morality within the Muslim community.