None amongst you can get. into Paradise by virtue of his deeds alone. They said: Allah's Messenger, not even you? Thereupon he said: Not even I, but that Allah should wrap me in His Grace and Mercy.
Exposition of the Hadith
This profound narration from Sahih Muslim 2816 f, found in "Characteristics of the Day of Judgment, Paradise, and Hell," establishes the fundamental Islamic doctrine that salvation and entry into Paradise are ultimately dependent upon Allah's mercy, not merely human deeds. The Prophet's response, "Not even I," demonstrates his humility and reinforces that no creature, regardless of status, can claim Paradise as an entitlement through works alone.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars explain that righteous deeds are essential and commanded, but they function as means to seek Allah's pleasure, not as purchased commodities demanding reward. The completeness and acceptance of deeds themselves are manifestations of divine grace.
This teaching safeguards against spiritual arrogance (ujb) and instills constant hope in Allah's boundless mercy, encouraging believers to perform good deeds while remaining humble and reliant upon their Lord's favor for ultimate success in the Hereafter.
Practical Implications
This hadith balances between hope and fear: hope in Allah's mercy that surpasses our deeds, and fear that our deeds may be insufficient without His acceptance. It teaches that while we must strive in worship and obedience, our ultimate trust should be in Allah's grace rather than our own spiritual account.