The Seeing Of Rasoolullah In a Dream

Ash-Shama'il Al-Muhammadiyah 409

Hadith Text

"Allah's Messenger said (Allah bless him and give him peace): 'If someone sees me in his sleep, he has indeed seen me!'"

Scholarly Commentary

This noble hadith establishes that seeing the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in a dream constitutes a true vision of his blessed person. The scholars explain that this occurs through one of two ways: either the soul of the Prophet (ﷺ) actually appears to the dreamer, or Allah creates his likeness in the dream. In either case, it is considered a true vision because Satan cannot assume the Prophet's form.

Imam Nawawi states in his Sharh of Sahih Muslim that this hadith is authentic and widely accepted by the scholars of Islam. The condition for this to be a true vision is that the Prophet (ﷺ) must be recognized in his known, beautiful form as described in the authentic narrations - not in any distorted or altered appearance.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that this special privilege is granted to the Prophet (ﷺ) alone among all creation, as a honor from Allah to His final Messenger. The vision brings comfort and spiritual benefit to the believer, and many righteous predecessors have reported such blessed dreams.

Legal Rulings

According to the majority of scholars, one who sees the Prophet (ﷺ) in a dream should share this good news with those who would appreciate it, but not with those who might mock or deny it.

The Hanafi scholars mention that if someone sees the Prophet (ﷺ) in a dream, it is recommended for them to visit his blessed grave in Medina if they are able, as this vision indicates a special connection.

Spiritual Significance

Such dreams are considered among the glad tidings Allah gives to His righteous servants. They serve as reminders of the believer's love for the Prophet (ﷺ) and strengthen their connection to him.

The scholars caution that one should not seek such dreams excessively, but rather focus on following the Sunnah in waking life, for true love of the Prophet (ﷺ) is manifested through obedience to his teachings.