A person suffered from intense thirst while on a journey, when he found a well. He climbed down into it and drank (water) and then came out and saw a dog lolling its tongue on account of thirst and eating the moistened earth. The person said: This dog has suffered from thirst as I had suffered from it. He climbed down into the well, filled his shoe with water, then caught it in his mouth until he climbed up and made the dog drink it. So Allah appreciated this act of his and pardoned him. Then (the Companions around him) said: Allah's Messenger, is there for us a reward even for (serving) such animals? He said: Yes, there is a reward for service to every living animal.
Hadith Text & Context
This narration from Sahih Muslim 2244, found in "The Book of Greetings," recounts a profound incident during a journey where a man, after quenching his own thirst, showed immense compassion to a suffering dog.
Exegesis of the Narrative
The man's initial suffering and relief mirror the dog's plight, creating a moment of empathetic recognition. His action—descending back into the well, using his shoe as a vessel, and carrying water in his mouth—demonstrates a sacrifice beyond mere convenience, highlighting the sincerity (ikhlas) of his deed.
Allah's appreciation and pardon signify that such acts of pure mercy can expiate sins. This illustrates the vastness of Divine Forgiveness, which is attainable not only through major acts of worship but also through genuine compassion towards Allah's creation.
Scholarly Commentary on the Ruling
The Companions' question, "Is there for us a reward even for (serving) such animals?" reflects a common pre-Islamic disregard for certain creatures. The Prophet's affirmative response, "Yes, there is a reward for service to every living animal," establishes a fundamental Islamic principle.
Scholars derive from this that showing kindness (ihsan) to any sentient being, even if it is not owned or traditionally valued, is a means of drawing nearer to Allah and earning spiritual reward (thawab). This includes providing food, water, and relief from suffering.
Legal and Ethical Implications
This hadith forms a primary evidence for the Islamic ethic of animal welfare. It obligates Muslims to avoid causing harm to animals and encourages proactive care. Neglect or cruelty towards animals is considered a sin.
The scope of "every living animal" is comprehensive, encompassing pets, livestock, and even wild or disliked creatures. The reward is promised regardless of the animal's perceived utility or status, grounding the act's value in the intention to please Allah alone.