📖Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3542
Abu Hurairah narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “If the believer knew what is with Allah of punishment, none would hope for Paradise, and if the disbeliever knew what is with Allah of mercy, none would despair of (attaining) Paradise.”
- This Hadith highlights two important concepts in Islam: fear and hope. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is conveying that if a believer were to have a full understanding of the severity of Allah’s punishment, they would be filled with fear and dread. This fear should motivate them to obey Allah’s commands and avoid committing sins that could lead to punishment. On the other hand, if a disbeliever had knowledge of the vast mercy and forgiveness of Allah, they would not despair of attaining Paradise. This hope should inspire them to seek Allah’s guidance and strive towards righteousness. In essence, this Hadith emphasizes the importance of balancing fear and hope in one’s relationship with Allah. A believer should have a healthy fear of Allah’s punishment, while also having hope in His mercy and forgiveness. A disbeliever should not despair of attaining Paradise, but should also be aware of the consequences of rejecting Allah’s guidance.
