Hadith Text & Context

"The Messenger of Allah mentioned the Fire, and he turned his face away (as if seeing it), and sought refuge with Allah from it." (One of the narrators) Shu'bah said: "He did that three times, then he said: 'Protect yourselves from the Fire even with half a date, and if you cannot find that, then with a good word."'

Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2553 | Book: The Book of Zakah | Author: Sunan an-Nasa'i

Prophetic Demonstration

The Prophet's physical reaction - turning his face away and seeking refuge - demonstrates the reality and severity of the Hellfire. His repetition of this action three times emphasizes the profound impact of this spiritual reality upon him.

This visible discomfort serves as a powerful teaching method, making abstract spiritual consequences tangible for the companions and subsequent generations of believers.

The Means of Protection

"Half a date" represents the smallest possible charity. Scholars explain that even the most minimal act of charity, when offered with sincere faith, can serve as protection from divine punishment.

The hierarchy established - from material charity to kind speech - shows Allah's mercy in providing multiple avenues for spiritual protection accessible to all believers regardless of their material circumstances.

The Power of Speech

A "good word" encompasses all forms of beneficial speech: remembrance of Allah (dhikr), recitation of Quran, enjoining good, forbidding evil, speaking truth, comforting others, and even avoiding harmful speech.

Classical commentators note that the tongue can be either a means of salvation or destruction, and this hadith directs believers toward its proper use for spiritual protection.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam Nawawi explains that this hadith demonstrates the tremendous value of even small good deeds in the sight of Allah and their power to avert punishment.

Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali notes that the Prophet's instruction shows that protection from Hellfire is attainable through consistent minor good deeds, making salvation accessible to all believers.

The scholars emphasize that these acts must be accompanied by proper faith and intention to be effective as spiritual protection.