Abū Mūsā al-Ash’arī reported God’s messenger as saying, “Keep refreshing your knowledge of the Qur’ān, for I swear by Him in whose hand my soul is that it is more liable to escape than camels which are tethered.” (Bukhārī and Muslim.)
The Excellence of Qur'anic Recitation and Memorization
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) employs a powerful simile to illustrate the delicate nature of Qur'anic retention in human memory. The comparison to tethered camels - creatures known for their strength yet tendency to wander if not properly secured - demonstrates how even firmly memorized verses can slip away without consistent revision.
Scholarly Commentary on Spiritual Vigilance
Imam al-Nawawi explains in his commentary on Sahih Muslim that this hadith emphasizes the obligation of murāqaba (constant vigilance) over one's memorization. The human heart is prone to forgetfulness, and divine words require continuous engagement to remain firmly rooted.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bārī notes that the oath "by Him in whose hand my soul is" underscores the extreme importance of this matter, indicating the serious consequences of neglecting Qur'anic revision.
Practical Implementation for the Seeker
Classical scholars prescribed specific practices: daily recitation of at least one juz' (section), weekly khatm (completion) for those able, and establishing wirḍ (regular portions) that are consistently reviewed. The companion Ibn Mas'ud would revise his memorization every fifteen days to ensure its preservation.
This teaching forms part of "The Excellent Qualities of the Qur'an" as documented in Mishkat al-Masabih 2187, reminding believers that the Qur'an is both a divine trust and a living relationship requiring ongoing nourishment through recitation, reflection, and repetition.