You will never be misguided so long
As you follow the Footsteps of the Prophet (ﷺ)
The phrase you shared highlights the importance of following the teachings and example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in Islam. It is often understood as a reminder that adhering to the Sunnah (the practices and sayings of the Prophet) is a key to staying on the right path in life.
In Arabic transliteration, a similar message could be expressed as: "Lan tudillu ma dumtum tattaqiuna athar al-Nabi (ﷺ)"
The idea of following the footsteps of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is deeply rooted in various sayings (hadith) and teachings in Islam. Here are some key references that emphasize the importance of adhering to his guidance:
1. Hadith from Sahih Muslim: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
"I have left among you two things; you will never go astray as long as you hold fast to them: the Book of Allah (the Qur'an) and my Sunnah (the Prophet's way of life)."
This hadith underscores that following the Qur'an and the Sunnah ensures that a Muslim will remain on the correct path.
2. Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also said:
"All of my Ummah (community) will enter Paradise except those who refuse." The companions asked, "O Messenger of Allah, who would refuse?" He replied, "Whoever obeys me will enter Paradise, and whoever disobeys me has refused."
This hadith reinforces the idea that obedience to the Prophet’s teachings is essential for success in the Hereafter.
3. Qur'anic Verse (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:21): "Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah, you have an excellent example for whoever has hope in Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah often."
The Qur'an itself encourages believers to follow the Prophet’s example as a model for living a righteous life.
These teachings highlight that by following the footsteps of the Prophet (ﷺ), Muslims are guided to live according to the principles of Islam, ensuring that they remain on the path of righteousness and are not misguided.