Hadith Text

Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) visited the orchard of Umm Ma'sud and said: Umm Ma'bad. he who has planted this tree, is he a Muslim or a non-Muslim? She said: Of course, he is a Muslim, whereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: No Muslim who plants (trees) and from their fruits the human beings or the beasts or birds eat, but that would be taken as an act of charity on the Day of Resurrection.

Contextual Background

This narration from Sahih Muslim 1552 d in The Book of Musaqah (Sharecropping) demonstrates the Prophet's concern for environmental stewardship and sustainable cultivation.

The Prophet's inquiry about the planter's faith indicates that the spiritual reward is specifically for believers who perform such beneficial acts with proper intention.

Scholarly Commentary

The great scholar Imam al-Nawawi explains that this hadith establishes planting beneficial trees as a continuous charity (sadaqah jariyah) whose reward continues as long as creation benefits from it.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the inclusion of "beasts or birds" extends the reward beyond human benefit, emphasizing Islam's comprehensive mercy toward all creation.

Classical jurists derived from this that any beneficial planting - whether for fruit, shade, or environmental protection - qualifies for this ongoing reward when done with sincere intention.

Practical Implications

This teaching encourages Muslims to engage in agriculture, forestry, and environmental conservation as acts of worship.

The perpetual reward applies even after the planter's death, making it among the most meritorious deeds one can leave behind.

Modern applications include supporting reforestation projects, community gardens, and sustainable farming practices.