Hadith of the day
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The person nearest to Allah is one who is the first to offer greeting."
[Abu Dawud 5197, authenticated by shaykh Al-Albaanee].
The narration in At-Tirmidhi is: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was asked: "O Messenger of Allah! When two persons meet, who should greet the other first?" The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The person nearest to Allah (i.e., one who is more obedient and therefore closer to Allah will say: As-Salam first."
[2694, authenticated by shaykh Al-Albaanee]
This hadith emphasizes the virtue of initiating greetings, specifically the Islamic greeting of As-Salamu Alaikum (peace be upon you). It teaches that the one who greets first is closer to Allah in obedience and virtue. By being the first to offer peace, a person demonstrates humility, good character, and eagerness to spread peace among others.
The variation in the two narrations—one from Abu Dawud and the other from At-Tirmidhi—highlights the same principle: the more pious and obedient to Allah a person is, the more they hasten to offer greetings of peace. This is an act encouraged in Islam as it fosters brotherhood, love, and harmony within the community.
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