None amongst you would attain salvation purely because of his deeds. A person said: Allah's Messenger, even you? Thereupon he said: Yes, not even I except that Allah wraps me in Mercy, but you should act with moderation. This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Bukair b. al-Ashajj with a slight variation of wording.
Hadith Text
None amongst you would attain salvation purely because of his deeds. A person said: Allah's Messenger, even you? Thereupon he said: Yes, not even I except that Allah wraps me in Mercy, but you should act with moderation. This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Bukair b. al-Ashajj with a slight variation of wording.
Book: Characteristics of the Day of Judgment, Paradise, and Hell
Author: Sahih Muslim
References: Sahih Muslim 2816 a, b
Commentary on the Hadith
This profound hadith establishes a fundamental principle of Islamic theology: salvation is ultimately attained through Allah's mercy and not merely through human deeds alone. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explicitly states that no one, including himself, will enter Paradise solely based on their actions.
When a companion asks "even you?" the Prophet confirms this truth, demonstrating the absolute justice and sovereignty of Allah. His response "except that Allah wraps me in Mercy" shows that even prophets require divine grace, though their status is elevated.
The instruction to "act with moderation" (wa lakin i'dilu) guides believers to maintain balance - performing righteous deeds while relying on Allah's mercy, avoiding both despair and arrogance. This prevents the extremes of abandoning good deeds entirely or developing spiritual pride in one's actions.
Scholars explain that good deeds are necessary as the means through which Allah's mercy is manifested, but they are not the ultimate cause of salvation. This teaching protects against self-righteousness while encouraging consistent worship and moral conduct.
Key Theological Points
1. Divine Mercy Precedes Human Action: Salvation begins with Allah's grace, not human initiative.
2. Prophetic Humility: Even the Final Prophet acknowledges his dependence on Allah's mercy.
3. Balanced Worship: The middle path between negligence and extremism in religious practice.
4. Purpose of Deeds: Good deeds are manifestations of gratitude and means to attain mercy, not transactions.