The Book Of Faith and its Signs - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5034

"The Messenger of Allah said: 'Indeed, this religion is easy, and no one will ever overburden himself in religion, except that it will overcome him. So seek what is appropriate, and come as close as you can, and receive the glad tidings (that you will be rewarded), and take it easy; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, afternoons, and during the last hours of the nights.'"

Commentary on the Ease of Islam

This noble hadith establishes a fundamental principle of Islamic legislation - that this religion is founded upon ease and facilitation, not hardship and difficulty. Allah says in the Quran: "Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship" (2:185).

The Prophet warns against extremism and overburdening oneself in religious matters, for such excess leads to burnout and abandonment of religion altogether. The balanced approach is to pursue what is appropriate to one's capacity while striving for excellence within reasonable limits.

Practical Guidance for Steadfastness

"Seek what is appropriate" means to choose acts of worship within one's capability without exceeding limits. "Come as close as you can" encourages gradual improvement while maintaining consistency. The glad tidings refer to the divine reward for those who follow this balanced path.

The final instruction to worship during specific times - mornings, afternoons, and last hours of nights - indicates the wisdom of distributing worship throughout the day rather than exhausting oneself in lengthy single sessions. This preserves spiritual energy and maintains continuous connection with the Divine.