The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship - Sahih Muslim 2568 c

Verily, when a Muslim visits his brother in Islam he is supposed to remain in the fruit garden of Paradise until he returns.

Exposition of the Hadith

This noble hadith, narrated by Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) and recorded by Imam Muslim, illuminates the immense spiritual merit of visiting a fellow Muslim for the sake of Allah. The phrase "fruit garden of Paradise" (Rawdah min Riyad al-Jannah) is a profound metaphor indicating that the visitor, during the entire duration of their visit, is enveloped in an atmosphere of divine mercy, peace, and spiritual delight akin to the gardens of Paradise.

The scholars explain that this state is not merely a future promise but a present spiritual reality. The visitor is engaged in an act of worship that strengthens the bonds of brotherhood (ukhuwwah), which is a fundamental pillar of the Muslim community. This act erases sins, cultivates love, and fulfills the rights that Muslims have over one another. The visitor is, in essence, harvesting the spiritual fruits of obedience and compassion.

Conditions and Deeper Meaning

The classical commentators, such as Imam An-Nawawi, stipulate that the full reward is attained when the visit is made sincerely for the sake of Allah, not for worldly gain, social obligation, or hypocrisy. The intention must be to please Allah by comforting a believer, strengthening familial ties, or reconciling hearts.

The hadith also implies a code of conduct for the visit. The visitor should bring peace, offer sincere counsel, avoid gossip and mischief, and depart before causing any inconvenience. Thus, the entire journey—from leaving home with a pure intention to returning—becomes a continuous act of worship, seamlessly connecting the visitor to the divine grace of Paradise.

Conclusion and Spiritual Import

In conclusion, this hadith transforms the simple, worldly act of visiting into a profound spiritual exercise. It teaches that the pleasures of the Hereafter can be tasted in this world through righteous deeds performed with sincerity. It is a powerful encouragement to maintain and nurture the bonds of Islamic brotherhood, reminding every believer that in seeking the happiness of their brother or sister, they find themselves in the everlasting gardens of divine favor.