Question
What is the authenticity of this Hadith?
“If the son of Adam escaped from his livelihood as he flees from death, his livelihood would still reach him as death reaches him.”
Answer
Imam Abu Nu’aym (rahimahullah) has recorded the following narration:
Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “If the son of Adam were to flee from his sustenance like how he flees from death, his sustenance would still reach him just as his death reaches him.”
(Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 7 pg. 90 and vol. 8 pg. 246. Also see: Shu’abul Iman, Hadith: 1147-1148)
‘Allamah ‘Azizi (rahimahullah) has declared the Hadith sound (hasan) [probably due to corroboration].
(As Sirajul Munir, vol. 3 pg. 211. Refer: Al Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 224 and Al Matalibul ‘Aliyah, under Hadith: 3187)
Explanation
Allah Ta’ala has taken it upon himself to see to the sustenance of his creation (Surah Hud, Verse: 6) and each person will only receive what is decreed for him. This Hadith therefore explains that supposing a person were to flee from his sustenance, he would still get what is decreed for him. The Hadith also encourages moderation in seeking sustenance as a person will only receive what is decreed.
(Refer: Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 7401 and As Sirajul Munir, vol. 3 pg. 211)
Also see here
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar