The world is sweet and green (alluring) and verily Allah is going to install you as vicegerent in it in order to see how you act. So avoid the allurement of women: verily, the first trial for the people of Isra'il was caused by women. And in the hadith transmitted on the authority of Ibn Bashshar the words are:" So that He should see how you act."
The Book of Heart-Melting Traditions
Sahih Muslim 2742
Textual Analysis
This tradition presents the world as "sweet and green" - indicating its temporal pleasures and attractions that can divert the heart from its ultimate purpose. The phrase "Allah is going to install you as vicegerent" establishes humanity's role as trustees (khulafa') responsible for stewardship over creation.
The variant reading "So that He should see how you act" emphasizes divine observation of human conduct, reminding believers of accountability before the All-Seeing.
Spiritual Commentary
The warning against women's allurement refers not to marriage itself - which is sunnah - but to improper gazing, illicit relationships, and excessive attachment that distracts from Allah. The reference to Banu Isra'il serves as a historical caution from previous nations who fell through similar temptations.
Scholars interpret this as directing believers to maintain balance: enjoying permissible pleasures while keeping the heart attached to the Eternal rather than the temporal.
Practical Application
Lower the gaze from unlawful sights and guard the private parts. Fulfill marital rights with purity and moderation. Remember that every enjoyment in this world is a test of gratitude and self-restraint. The true believer uses worldly blessings as means to draw closer to Allah, not as ends in themselves.