Hadith Text & Reference

"I heard two things from the Messenger of Allah He said 'Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, has decreed proficiency in all things, so when you kill, kill well, and when you slaughter, slaughter well. Let one of you sharpen his blade and spare suffering to the animal he slaughters."" (Sahih Muslim)

Commentary on Divine Decree of Excellence

The phrase "Allah has decreed proficiency in all things" establishes that excellence (ihsan) is a fundamental Islamic principle governing all actions. This extends beyond worship to include worldly matters, demonstrating Islam's comprehensive guidance for human conduct.

Scholars explain that "proficiency" here means performing every action in the best possible manner, whether religious or mundane, as all deeds can become acts of worship when performed with excellence and proper intention.

Ethics of Slaughtering & Killing

"When you slaughter, slaughter well" refers specifically to the ritual slaughter of animals for food. Classical commentators emphasize that this includes using a sharp blade, cutting swiftly, and avoiding practices that cause unnecessary pain.

"When you kill, kill well" applies to lawful situations like capital punishment or jihad. Scholars interpret this as requiring efficiency and minimizing suffering, even when taking life is religiously permitted.

Practical Implementation in Sacrifice

The instruction to "sharpen his blade" has both literal and spiritual meanings. Literally, it ensures a quick, clean cut that minimizes the animal's suffering. Spiritually, it represents preparation and mindfulness in fulfilling religious obligations.

"Spare suffering to the animal" establishes animal welfare as a religious obligation. Scholars derive from this that causing unnecessary pain to animals is prohibited, even during slaughter. This includes hiding the blade from the animal's sight and not slaughtering one animal in front of another.

Relation to The Book of ad-Dahaya (Sacrifices)

This hadith provides essential ethical foundations for the rulings found in Sunan an-Nasa'i and other collections regarding animal sacrifice. The principles of proficiency and compassion must govern all acts of slaughter, whether for Udhiyah (Eid sacrifice) or ordinary consumption.

The comprehensive nature of this teaching shows that Islamic law concerns itself not only with the validity of acts of worship but with the manner and spirit in which they are performed, elevating mere ritual to acts of profound spiritual significance.