Question

Can you kindly provide the reference for this Hadith:

Shaytan is always perching upon the heart of Ibn Adam (every human being). When he remembers Allah, Shaytan withdraws from him and when he is negligent, Satan whispers wicked incitements into his heart.

Answer

Imam Abu Ya’la (rahimahullah) has recorded the following narration:

Sayyiduna Anas ibn Malik (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Indeed Shaytan places his snout on the heart of Ibn Adam, when he remembers Allah he withdraws and when he becomes unmindful of Allah, then Shaytan devours/whispers into his heart, this is what is meant by ‘Al Waswas’ and ‘Al Khannas’ [mentioned in Surah Nas].”

(Musnad Abu Ya’la, Hadith: 4301)

Although the above Hadith has been recorded with a weak chain, Hafiz Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) has cited supporting weak narrations, which when combined, gain collective strength. The Hadith in question is suitable to quote.

(Refer: Fathul Bari, under Hadith: 4977)

Imam Bukhari (rahimahullah) has also recorded a similar narration as the statements of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) under the sub-heading and not part of the Sahih as this narration does not meet his strict criterion.

(Sahih Bukhari, before Hadith: 4977)

And Allah Ta’ala knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar