"You are going to some people from among the people of the Book. Call them to bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that I am the Messenger of Allah. If they obey you in that, then teach them that Allah has enjoined upon them five prayers every day and night. If they obey you in that, then teach them that Allah has enjoined upon them Sadaqah (Zakah) from their wealth, to be taken from their rich and given to their poor. If they obey you in that, then do not touch the most precious of their wealth, and fear the supplication of the one who has been wronged, for there is no barrier between it and Allah, the Mighty and Sublime."
The Book of Zakah
Sunan an-Nasa'i 2522
Hadith Text
"You are going to some people from among the people of the Book. Call them to bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that I am the Messenger of Allah. If they obey you in that, then teach them that Allah has enjoined upon them five prayers every day and night. If they obey you in that, then teach them that Allah has enjoined upon them Sadaqah (Zakah) from their wealth, to be taken from their rich and given to their poor. If they obey you in that, then do not touch the most precious of their wealth, and fear the supplication of the one who has been wronged, for there is no barrier between it and Allah, the Mighty and Sublime."
Commentary on Da'wah Methodology
This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i outlines the prophetic methodology for inviting People of the Book to Islam. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ teaches gradual progression in da'wah, beginning with the foundation of faith (tawhid and prophethood), then moving to acts of worship (salah), and finally to social obligations (zakah). This demonstrates the wisdom of presenting Islam in stages, allowing new Muslims to gradually absorb and implement its teachings.
The Position of Zakah in Islam
Zakah is presented as the third pillar of Islam after the shahadah and salah, indicating its fundamental importance. The term "Sadaqah" here refers to the obligatory zakah, not voluntary charity. The description "taken from their rich and given to their poor" establishes zakah as a divinely ordained wealth redistribution system that strengthens social cohesion and ensures economic justice within the Muslim community.
Wisdom in Zakah Collection
The instruction "do not touch the most precious of their wealth" contains profound wisdom. Classical scholars explain this means collectors should take medium-quality wealth, not the best possessions that people cherish most. This prevents hardship and resentment, making zakah more acceptable to those paying it. It reflects Islam's compassion and understanding of human nature.
The Sanctity of Justice
The warning to "fear the supplication of the one who has been wronged" serves as a powerful reminder to zakah collectors and all in authority. The oppressed person's prayer is particularly potent as it ascends directly to Allah without barrier. This emphasizes that zakah collection must be conducted with utmost justice, compassion, and respect for people's rights and dignity.