Question

What is meant by “niyyah” in the Hadith “La Hijrata ba’dal fathi wa lakin jihadun wa niyyah“

Answer

Imam Bukhari and Imam Muslim (rahimahumallah) have recorded this narration.

(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 2783, 2825 and Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1353)

This Hadith explains that after The Conquest of Makkah, migration to Madinah which was extremely rewarding is no longer compulsory. However, a person can still attain rewards of migration by going out in jihad or by making an intention before carrying out any deed. A person will be rewarded according to his intention.

(Refer: Al Minhaj of ‘Allamah Nawawi, Hadith: 3289)

‘Allamah Tibi has offered a different explanation. He says the Hadith in question explains that leaving one’s hometown for the purpose of migration is no longer compulsory. However leaving one’s hometown for the purpose of jihad and for the purpose of other good deeds like going out to seek knowledge etc. still remains.

(Fathul Bari, Hadith: 2825)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar