Question

I read this Hadith in Mishkatul Masabih, but have not seen a reference to a primary source.

Could you kindly provide the reference: “Only a sinner plays chess”

Answer

Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration in several of his books, as the statement of Sayyiduna Abu Musa Al Ash’ari (radiyallahu ‘anhu).

Sayyiduna Abu Musa Al Ash’ari (radiyallahu ‘anhu) said: “Only a sinner plays chess.”

(As Sunanul Kubra, vol. 10, pg. 212, Kitabul Adaab: 772. Also see: Shu’abul Iman: 6097)

Note:

1) Although this narration has been recorded as the statement of Sayyiduna Abu Musa Al Ash’ari (radiyallahu ‘anhu), Mulla ‘Ali Al Qari (rahimahullah) states that the nature of the narration is not such that could be said by applying logic. It will therefore be understood that he heard this from Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) (مرفوع حكما).

(Mirqat, Hadith: 4510)

2) I have merely answered your question regarding the reference of the narration in question. This should therefore not be viewed as a Fiqh ruling.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar