Question

I would like to ask if the following Hadith is authentic and what does it mean?

Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Verily, Allah loves that when anyone of you does a job he should perfect it”

Answer

This Hadith is recorded in Musnad Abi Ya’la (Hadith: 4386) and other sources on the authority of Sayyidah ‘Aishah (radiyallahu ‘anha).

See the full reference and authenticity here.

The word used in this Hadith is “يتقنه” which means to perfect something/do it proficiently. Another version of this narration has the word “يحكمه” which means to do something expertly/thoroughly.

The commentators explain that this Hadith means that a person should ensure that he carries out all tasks, including his job/profession thoroughly and skilfully. He should make an intention that he is carrying out his work skilfully and meticulously to benefit the creation of Allah.

Some commentators also explain that “carrying out a task thoroughly” in this Hadith refers to sincerity and and ensuring that a person carries out deeds with the correct intention.

(Refer: Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 1861)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar