No bondsman believes, and, in the hadith narrated by Abdul Warith, no person believes, till I am dearer to him than the members of his household, his wealth and the whole of mankind.
The Book of Faith - Sahih Muslim 44a
This commentary examines the profound hadith from Sahih Muslim concerning the complete love for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as a condition of perfect faith (iman).
Textual Analysis
The narration establishes that no servant's faith is complete until the Messenger of Allah becomes more beloved to them than their own family, wealth, and all of humanity.
The variant narrated by Abdul Warith emphasizes "no person" rather than "no bondsman," broadening the universal application of this spiritual requirement.
Scholarly Interpretation
Imam al-Nawawi explains this denotes the perfection of faith, requiring the Prophet's love to surpass all worldly attachments. This love manifests through obedience to his Sunnah, preference for his guidance over personal desires, and emulation of his character.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali clarifies this does not negate natural familial love, but requires the Prophet's love to be supreme in matters of religion and ultimate loyalty.
Practical Manifestations
This love is demonstrated through: Following his Sunnah meticulously, defending his honor, studying his biography, sending blessings upon him frequently, and prioritizing his teachings over cultural practices or personal opinions.
The true believer naturally inclines toward what the Prophet loved and avoids what he prohibited, making his pleasure the ultimate objective in all affairs.
Spiritual Significance
This hierarchy of love establishes the proper orientation of the heart - where love of Allah and His Messenger forms the foundation, and all other loves are subordinate to this primary devotion.
Such love transforms worldly attachments into means of drawing closer to Allah, as the believer utilizes family, wealth, and relationships in ways pleasing to the Prophet and thus to Allah.