Question

What is the source and authenticity of the Hadith

“Ponder over the creation of Allah Ta’ala and do not ponder regarding the Being of Allah”

Answer

This Hadith has been recorded in several Hadith collections like Hilyatul Awliya, Al Mu’jamul Awsat and Shu’abul Iman with variations in the wording. In some versions this Hadith is attributed to Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (mawqufan) and in other versions to Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).

Although most of the chains are weak, ‘Allamah Sakhawi (rahimahullah) states that they gain collective strength and the meaning is correct.

(Al Maqasidul Hasanah, Hadith: 342)

The Hadith is further supported by the following Hadith in Sahih Muslim:

“People will continue to question one another till this is asked, ‘Allah created all things but who created Allah’? Whoever finds himself confronted with such a situation [doubts] should say, ‘I believe in Allah’”

(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 134)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar