The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2318a

This narration from Sahih Muslim presents a profound teaching regarding parental affection and divine mercy. The companion's statement reveals a cultural misconception prevalent in pre-Islamic Arabia, where some considered excessive affection toward children as weakness.

Scholarly Commentary

The Prophet's response establishes the fundamental Islamic principle of reciprocal mercy. Scholars explain that showing mercy to children is not merely recommended but essential, as it becomes the means through which Allah's mercy descends upon the parent.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali comments that this hadith demonstrates how human actions toward creation directly affect Allah's treatment of them. The mercy shown to children becomes a cause for receiving divine mercy.

Al-Nawawi emphasizes that this teaching extends beyond physical affection to include providing proper upbringing, education, and emotional support, all being manifestations of rahmah (mercy).

Practical Implications

This teaching revolutionizes parent-child relationships, making affection and compassion religious obligations rather than optional emotions.

The hadith establishes that mercy begins within the household and radiates outward. A heart hardened toward one's own children cannot properly manifest mercy toward others.

Scholars conclude that this principle applies universally - mercy shown to any creation becomes a means for receiving Allah's mercy, with one's own family being the primary testing ground.