The Book of Fighting [The Prohibition of Bloodshed] - Sunan an-Nasa'i 4123

"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'If two Muslims fight with swords, and one of them kills the other, then the killer and the slain will both be in Hell.'"

Scholarly Commentary

This hadith establishes the grave prohibition of Muslims fighting and killing one another. The apparent meaning indicates both parties in such unlawful combat face severe consequences.

The killer enters Hell for committing murder against a believer, while the slain enters Hell due to his intention to kill his Muslim brother. His evil intention makes him equally culpable in the sight of Allah.

Scholars explain this applies to fighting without legitimate Islamic justification. Legitimate combat such as prescribed jihad or lawful punishment administered by authorities are excluded from this ruling.

This severe warning serves to protect Muslim lives and maintain communal harmony, emphasizing that the life of a Muslim is sacred and protected by Shariah.

Legal Implications

This hadith forms the basis for the prohibition of civil strife (fitnah) among Muslims and establishes the sanctity of Muslim blood.

The ruling applies specifically to cases where both parties willingly engage in combat with lethal weapons intending to kill.

Scholars differentiate between this and cases of self-defense where one is compelled to fight to protect their own life.