Question
What is the translation of the following part of the Hadith?
إنه ليس بك على أهلك هوان
عن أم سلمة أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم لما تزوج أم سلمة أقام عندها ثلاثا، وقال: إنه ليس بك على أهلك هوان إن شئت سبعت لك وإن سبعت لك سبعت لنسائي
Answer
Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration in his Sahih. The translation of the part in question is as follows:
“There is no negligence/lowly behavior on my part or There will be no disgrace upon you due to your rights not being fulfilled.”
The commentators explain that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) possibly used the word ‘اهل’ to refer to himself. He (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) explained to her that he is only spending three nights with her as he will have to be equal with his other wives. He is not limiting his time with her because she is of little importance to him or because he has a disinclination towards her.
The commentators have further stated that the word ‘اهل’ could also be referring to Sayyidah Ummu Salamah’s (radiyallahu ‘anha) tribe/family. In this case the meaning will be, ‘There will be no embarrassment/disgrace upon your family.’
(Refer: Sahih Muslim with Al Minhaj, Hadith: 3607, Ad Dibaj of ‘Allamah Suyuti, Hadith: 3606, vol.3 pg. 503, Takmilah Fathul Mulhim, Hadith: 3602 and Mirqatul Mafatih, Hadith: 3234)
The translation of the complete narration is as follows:
When Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) married Sayyidah Ummu Salamah (radiyallahu ‘anha) he stayed by her for three [nights] and said: “There is no negligence/disinclination on my part or There will be no disgrace upon you due to your rights not being fulfilled. If you wish I can stay with you for a week, but if I stay with you for a week, then I will have to stay with all my wives for a week.”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1460)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar