Question

Is it an authentic Hadith that one who applies olive oil will be protected from the interference of Shaytan. If yes, how should the oil be used?

Answer

This is part of a lengthy narration wherein Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) offered numerous advices to Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu ‘anhu). The part in question is as follows:

“O Ali! Apply olive oil and use it in your gravy for certainly Shaytan does not come close to the person who applies olive oil for forty nights”

(Musnadul Harith; Bughyatul Bahith, Hadith: 469)

However, this Hadith has been transmitted with an extremely weak chain. In fact Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah) has declared the Hadith a fabrication.

(Dalailun Nubuwwah, vol. 7, pg. 229, Al Matalibul ‘Aliyah, Hadith: 77. Also see: Al La-Alil Masnu’ah, vol. 2, pg. 312)

See another part of this Hadith here.

Although the Hadith in question isn’t suitable to quote, we are still encouraged to use olive oil in other Hadiths. See here.

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar