Hadith Text

"The Prophet (ﷺ) was asked: 'Which of the Muslims is most virtuous?' He said: 'The one from (the harm of) whose tongue and hand (other) Muslims are safe.'"

Hadith Reference

Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2628 - The Book on Faith

Commentary on the Meaning

This noble hadith establishes that true virtue in Islam is measured by one's ability to refrain from harming fellow Muslims. The tongue represents verbal harm such as backbiting, slander, insults, and false speech. The hand represents physical harm and oppression. The most virtuous Muslim is thus one who safeguards others from both verbal and physical injury.

Scholarly Explanation

Imam at-Tirmidhi classifies this hadith as hasan sahih (good and authentic). Scholars explain that this teaching emphasizes the social dimension of faith - true belief manifests in protecting others from harm. The Prophet prioritizes safety and security over mere ritual observance, indicating that the foundation of Islamic brotherhood is mutual protection and respect.

This hadith complements the famous definition of a Muslim as "one from whose tongue and hand other Muslims are safe," highlighting that virtue lies in actively ensuring others' security rather than merely avoiding obvious sins.

Practical Implications

This teaching requires Muslims to constantly monitor their speech and actions, ensuring they cause no harm to others. It encourages developing self-restraint, mindfulness in speech, and control over one's physical actions. The most virtuous believer is not necessarily the most knowledgeable or worshipful, but rather the one who poses no threat to the peace and security of the Muslim community.