Seven are (the persons) whom Allah would give protection with His Shade on the Day when there would be no shade but that of Him (i. e. on the Day of Judgment, and they are): a just ruler, a youth who grew up with the worship of Allah; a person whose heart is attached to the mosques; two persons who love and meet each other and depart from each other for the sake of Allah; a man whom a beautiful woman of high rank seduces (for illicit relation), but he (rejects this offer by saying):" I fear Allah" ; a person who gives charity and conceals it (to such an extent) that the right hand does not know what the left has given: and a person who remembered Allah in privacy and his eyes shed tears.
The Book of Zakat
Sahih Muslim - Hadith 1031a
Hadith Commentary
This noble hadith enumerates seven categories of believers who will receive Allah's special protection on the Day of Judgment, a day of immense distress when no shade exists except His divine shade. Each category represents a distinct form of piety and devotion that earns this supreme honor.
The Just Ruler
A ruler who governs with justice and equity, upholding divine law and ensuring the rights of all subjects. His justice extends beyond mere legal rulings to encompass all aspects of governance, making him a shadow of Allah's mercy upon earth.
The Devout Youth
A young person who dedicates their formative years to worshipping Allah, resisting worldly temptations during the peak of physical strength and desire. This demonstrates exceptional spiritual maturity and commitment to the divine path.
The Mosque-Devoted Heart
One whose heart finds peace and connection in mosques, constantly yearning to be in houses of worship. This indicates a soul deeply connected to remembrance of Allah and communal prayer.
Brothers in Faith
Two individuals whose friendship is purely for Allah's sake - they meet for His pleasure and separate remembering Him. Their relationship transcends worldly interests and becomes an act of worship itself.
The Chaste Man
A man who, when tempted by a beautiful woman of high status, immediately rejects the illicit offer out of genuine fear of Allah. This represents the ultimate triumph of taqwa over base desires.
The Secret Giver
One who gives charity so discreetly that their left hand remains unaware of what their right hand has given. This exemplifies pure sincerity (ikhlas), seeking only Allah's pleasure without any desire for recognition or praise.
The Weeping Rememberer
A person who remembers Allah in solitude with such intensity and devotion that their eyes overflow with tears. This demonstrates profound spiritual awareness and heartfelt connection with the Divine.