The Nature of True Visions

A true and righteous vision (ru'yā sāliha) is a divine communication from Allah, descending from the realm of the Unseen. It is a form of spiritual inspiration (ilhām) granted to the believer as a glad tiding or a warning. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) established that such visions constitute one part from forty-six parts of Prophethood.

Exegesis of the Fraction

Scholars have pondered the wisdom behind the specific fraction of one forty-sixth. Some opine it relates to the duration of the Prophet's mission, suggesting the period he received revelation was approximately twenty-three years, and since a vision is a "good dream," which occurs during sleep—half of one's time—the fraction becomes 1/(23*2) = 1/46. This demonstrates that even the smallest portion connected to Prophethood is of immense spiritual value and sanctity.

Others state that the number is not to be taken literally in a restrictive sense, but rather indicates a small, significant share. The core meaning is that the true dream is a remnant and a faint reflection of the immense light of Prophethood, which has ceased with the passing of the Final Messenger.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Not every dream is a "good vision." A true vision is characterized by its clarity, its occurrence to a righteous person, and its content being free from contradiction with Islamic law. It often brings comfort, guidance, or a positive admonition. Visions from Satan are confused, frightening, or invite to sin, and are not included in this noble hadith.

Spiritual Implications

This hadith elevates the status of the believer in the final era. Although general revelation has ended, Allah in His mercy continues to grant the pious a means of connection to the divine through righteous dreams. It is a solace for the Ummah and a sign of a person's sound faith and truthful nature, as the most truthful of you in speech are the most truthful in dreams.