'A'isha, the wife of Allah's Apostle (ﷺ), said that whenever he had to choose between two things he adopted the easier one, provided it was nor sin, but if it was any sin he was the one wio was the farthest from it of the people; and Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) never took revenge from anyone because of his personal grievance, unless what Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, had made inviolable had been violated.
The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2327 a
This narration from the Mother of the Believers, 'A'isha (may Allah be pleased with her), reveals profound aspects of the Prophet's character (peace be upon him) that serve as a comprehensive guide for the Muslim community.
The Principle of Ease in Permissible Matters
The Prophet's consistent choice of the easier option when faced with two permissible alternatives demonstrates the Islamic principle of removing hardship (raf' al-haraj). This reflects Allah's mercy in legislation, as He desires ease for His servants, not difficulty.
Scholars explain this as applying to worldly matters and acts of worship where there is flexibility, such as choosing between valid prayer positions or permissible foods. This approach prevents unnecessary strictness that could lead to extremism.
Absolute Avoidance of Sin
The phrase "he was the one who was the farthest from it of the people" indicates the Prophet's complete and immediate rejection of anything involving sin. His distance from prohibited matters was greater than any other person's, establishing him as the perfect example of piety.
This teaches that while we may exercise flexibility in permissible matters, there is no compromise when it comes to clear prohibitions. The boundaries set by Allah must be respected absolutely.
Distinction Between Personal and Religious Matters
The Prophet never sought revenge for personal grievances, demonstrating supreme moral character. His forgiveness of personal wrongs was complete, reflecting the Quranic instruction to repel evil with goodness.
However, when Allah's sacred limits were violated, he acted decisively to establish justice and protect the religion. This distinction is crucial: personal feelings should not interfere with upholding divine commandments.
Practical Application for Muslims
This hadith provides a balanced approach to life: ease in permissible matters, strictness in prohibitions, forgiveness in personal affairs, and firmness in religious principles. It teaches moderation without compromising religious obligations.
Muslims should emulate this balanced character - avoiding both excessive strictness in permissible matters and laxity in prohibited ones, while distinguishing between personal feelings and religious duties.