The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: "By the One in Whose hand is my soul, none of you has believed until I am dearer to him than his son or his father.'"
The Book Of Faith and its Signs - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5015
"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'By the One in Whose hand is my soul, none of you has believed until I am dearer to him than his son or his father.'"
Commentary on the Hadith
This profound hadith establishes the fundamental condition of complete faith (iman). The Prophet's solemn oath "By the One in Whose hand is my soul" emphasizes the gravity and certainty of this spiritual requirement.
True belief necessitates that love for the Messenger of Allah must surpass all natural human attachments, including the strongest familial bonds. This does not negate proper respect for parents or children, but establishes the proper hierarchy of love in a believer's heart.
The scholars explain that this precedence in affection manifests through: preferring the Prophet's guidance over personal desires, following his Sunnah above cultural traditions, and upholding his teachings above all other opinions.
Spiritual Implications
This love is not merely emotional but practical - it requires obedience to his commands, avoidance of his prohibitions, and following his exemplary character in all matters.
When the Prophet becomes dearer than one's own self and family, the believer naturally prioritizes Islamic teachings in daily life, making sacrifices for the religion, and defending the honor of the Prophet above all worldly concerns.