The Book of Manners and Etiquette

Sahih Muslim 2159 a

Hadith Text

"I asked Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) about the sudden glance (that is cast) on the face (of a non-Mahram). He commanded me that I should turn away my eyes."

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes the Islamic ruling regarding the accidental glance at a non-mahram. The Prophet's command to immediately divert one's gaze demonstrates that even unintentional looks require immediate corrective action.

Scholars explain that the "sudden glance" refers to an unintentional or accidental look that falls upon a non-mahram. Though initially involuntary, the believer's responsibility begins the moment they become aware of it. The instruction to "turn away my eyes" emphasizes the urgency in averting one's gaze completely rather than allowing it to linger.

This teaching protects the heart from unlawful desires and maintains societal purity. The wisdom behind this command is to prevent the first glance from leading to subsequent intentional looks, which could potentially develop into greater transgressions. It serves as a practical manifestation of Allah's command in Surah An-Nur: "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts."

The hadith illustrates the comprehensive nature of Islamic guidance, addressing even momentary actions that could lead to spiritual harm. It teaches believers to cultivate constant awareness and self-discipline in their interactions with the opposite gender.