He who introduced some good practice in Islam which was followed after him (by people) he would be assured of reward like one who followed it, without their rewards being diminished in any respect. And he who introduced some evil practice in Islam which had been followed subsequently (by others), he would be required to bear the burden like that of one who followed this (evil practice) without their's being diminished in any respect.
The Book of Knowledge - Sahih Muslim 1017e
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This noble hadith from the Sahih of Imam Muslim establishes a fundamental principle of Islamic jurisprudence concerning the establishment of precedents and their spiritual consequences. The tradition elucidates the profound responsibility that accompanies innovation in religious matters, distinguishing between praiseworthy and blameworthy introductions.
Commentary on the First Part: The Reward for Good Innovations
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) speaks of "some good practice in Islam," he refers specifically to practices that are in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah, not arbitrary innovations. The scholars have clarified that this applies to reviving forgotten sunnahs or establishing new means to achieve legitimate religious objectives.
The assurance of reward "like one who followed it" demonstrates Allah's infinite mercy. The initiator receives continuous reward for every person who follows their good practice, without diminishing the rewards of those followers. This cosmic multiplication of reward reflects the divine economy of grace.
Commentary on the Second Part: The Burden of Evil Innovations
The second portion addresses "evil practice," meaning any innovation contrary to Islamic principles. The initiator bears the sin of establishing such practice plus the sins of all who follow it, without reducing the responsibility of the followers.
This severe warning serves as a powerful deterrent against introducing deviations into the pure religion of Islam. Scholars emphasize that this applies specifically to religious innovations (bid'ah) that contradict established Islamic teachings, not merely new customs in worldly matters.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes the principle of spiritual responsibility for one's influence on the community. It encourages Muslims to be sources of goodness while cautioning against being conduits of misguidance.
The preservation of Islamic authenticity requires vigilance against unauthorized innovations while encouraging the revival of genuine prophetic practices. Every Muslim should strive to leave behind a legacy of righteousness that continues to benefit others long after their departure from this world.