"I asked the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) which action is most beloved to Allah? He said: 'Establishing prayer on time, honoring one's parents and Jihad in the cause of Allah.'"
The Book of the Times (of Prayer)
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 611
Hadith Text
"I asked the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) which action is most beloved to Allah? He said: 'Establishing prayer on time, honoring one's parents and Jihad in the cause of Allah.'"
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith establishes a hierarchy of virtuous deeds in Islam, beginning with the most fundamental obligation. The Prophet (ﷺ) prioritized establishing prayer on its appointed times, for it is the pillar of religion and the first matter about which the servant will be questioned on the Day of Resurrection.
The placement of honoring parents immediately after prayer demonstrates its immense status, as it represents the rights of creation that follow the rights of the Creator. This combination reflects the comprehensive nature of Islamic teachings balancing divine worship and social responsibilities.
Jihad in Allah's cause completes this triad, representing the ultimate sacrifice of one's wealth and soul for the establishment of truth. The sequence indicates that external struggle must be built upon the foundation of proper worship and righteous character toward parents.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Scholars note that "establishing prayer" encompasses performing it completely with its pillars, conditions, and recommended acts at its earliest prescribed time. This reflects the hadith's emphasis on both quality and timeliness of worship.
The conjunction of these three specific deeds teaches that Islam values both individual spiritual development and social responsibility, with family honor serving as the bridge between personal devotion and communal sacrifice.