The Apostle of Allah (ﷺ) visited the grave of his mother and he wept, and moved others around him to tears, and said: I sought permission from my Lord to beg forgiveness for her but it was not granted to me, and I sought permission to visit her grave and it was granted to me so visit the graves, for that makes you mindful of death.
The Book of Prayer - Funerals
Sahih Muslim 976 b
Hadith Text
The Apostle of Allah (ﷺ) visited the grave of his mother and he wept, and moved others around him to tears, and said: I sought permission from my Lord to beg forgiveness for her but it was not granted to me, and I sought permission to visit her grave and it was granted to me so visit the graves, for that makes you mindful of death.
Scholarly Commentary
This profound narration demonstrates the balance between divine decree and human emotion. The Prophet's weeping shows the permissibility of natural grief, while his acceptance of Allah's decision regarding forgiveness exemplifies perfect submission. The prohibition against seeking forgiveness for polytheists - including his mother who died before Islam - establishes a fundamental theological principle.
The permission to visit graves, initially forbidden, was later granted as it serves as a powerful reminder of the afterlife. This visitation is not for seeking intercession from the dead, but rather for spiritual reflection that softens the heart and increases devotion. The wisdom lies in making death a living reality in one's consciousness, thus deterring from worldly attachments and encouraging preparation for the Hereafter.
Scholars note that this hadith combines three important lessons: the regulation of emotional expression in grief, the boundaries of intercession, and the spiritual benefits of remembering mortality. The Prophet's example here guides us in navigating the delicate balance between heartfelt emotion and religious obligation.