Hadith Text and Context

The noble hadith states: "The whole world is a provision, and the best object of benefit of the world is the pious woman." This profound teaching appears in Sahih Muslim and other authentic collections, highlighting the Islamic perspective on worldly provisions and their optimal utilization.

This tradition comes from the authority of Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-As (may Allah be pleased with him), who narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) delivered this wisdom to his companions.

Lexical Analysis

The term "provision" (mata') in the hadith refers to all that Allah has made available in this worldly life for human benefit and enjoyment. It encompasses material possessions, relationships, opportunities, and all permissible means of sustenance.

"Pious woman" (al-mar'ah al-salihah) denotes a woman who fulfills her duties toward Allah through obedience and worship, and toward her family through righteous conduct, proper upbringing of children, and maintaining the sanctity of her home.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi, in his commentary on Sahih Muslim, explains that this hadith establishes the superiority of a righteous wife over all other worldly possessions. While the entire world is created for human benefit, the most excellent of these benefits is a pious woman who assists her husband in his faith and worldly affairs.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes that the piety of a woman brings comprehensive blessings - she preserves herself and her husband's honor, raises righteous children, manages household affairs with wisdom, and becomes a source of tranquility as mentioned in the Quran: "They are clothing for you and you are clothing for them."

Practical Implications

This teaching emphasizes the importance of seeking and valuing righteous spouses over material wealth. A pious woman transforms a house into a home filled with divine blessings and spiritual tranquility.

The hadith also serves as guidance for women to strive for piety, knowing that their spiritual status elevates them above all worldly treasures in the sight of Allah and His Messenger.

For men, it underscores the responsibility to appreciate, honor, and support their wives in maintaining their piety, recognizing them as the greatest worldly blessing after faith itself.