The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) happened to pass by two graves and said: They (their occupants) are being tormented, but they are not tormented for a grievous sin. One of them carried tales and the other did not keep himself safe from being defiled by urine. He then called for a fresh twig and split it into two parts, and planted them on each grave and then said: Perhaps, their punishment way be mitigated as long as these twigs remain fresh.
Hadith Text & Context
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) happened to pass by two graves and said: They (their occupants) are being tormented, but they are not tormented for a grievous sin. One of them carried tales and the other did not keep himself safe from being defiled by urine. He then called for a fresh twig and split it into two parts, and planted them on each grave and then said: Perhaps, their punishment way be mitigated as long as these twigs remain fresh.
Reference: Sahih Muslim 292a | Book: The Book of Purification
Scholarly Commentary
This profound hadith from Sahih Muslim serves as a grave warning against two seemingly minor sins that carry severe consequences in the Hereafter. The Prophet's (ﷺ) clarification that these sins are "not grievous" indicates they are often overlooked by people, yet they warrant divine punishment.
The first sin - carrying tales (nameemah) - refers to spreading speech that causes discord between people. Scholars explain this includes gossip, slander, and backbiting that destroys relationships and communities. The gravity lies in the social corruption it creates.
The second sin - negligence in purification from urine - demonstrates the importance Islam places on physical and spiritual cleanliness. Classical commentators emphasize that this refers to willful negligence in properly cleaning oneself after urination, showing disregard for the requirements of ritual purity essential for prayer and worship.
Legal & Spiritual Implications
The planting of fresh twigs represents the Prophet's (ﷺ) intercession and Allah's infinite mercy. Scholars interpret this as demonstrating that even during punishment, divine mercy remains accessible. The temporary nature of the twigs' freshness indicates the limited duration of this particular mitigation.
This hadith establishes the principle that no sin should be considered trivial. It reminds believers to guard their tongues and maintain physical purity with utmost care. The collective lesson is that negligence in matters of speech and purification can lead to severe consequences, while Allah's mercy remains available through the intercession of His Prophet and the good deeds of the living.