Question

Is this a Hadith?

People still honour you as long as you do not take what is in their hands, and if you do that they will ridicule you

 

Answer

I have not come across this as a Hadith.

Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded a similar narration as the statement of Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah).

Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah) said: “You will continue to remain honourable in the sight of people and they will continue to honour you so long as you do not take/ask of their possessions. Once you do that, they will disdain you, dislike your speech and despise you.”

(Kitabuz Zuhd of Imam Ahmad: 1511. Also see: Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 3 pg. 20)

 

The narration is suitable to quote as the statement of Hasan al Basri (rahimahullah).

 

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

 

Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala

 

Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar