The people said, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! Who is the most honorable amongst the people (in Allah's
Sight)?" He said, "The most righteous amongst them." They said, "We do not ask you, about this. " He
said, "Then Joseph, Allah's Prophet, the son of Allah's Prophet, The son of Allah's Prophet the son of
Allah's Khalil (i.e. Abraham)." They said, "We do not want to ask about this," He said' "Then you
want to ask about the descent of the Arabs. Those who were the best in the pre-lslamic period of
ignorance will be the best in Islam provided they comprehend the religious knowledge."
Narrated by Narrated Abu Huraira:
Context
In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is asked about who is the most honorable among people. He emphasizes that righteousness is the key to honor in the sight of Allah. After the initial inquiry, he highlights the lineage of Prophet Joseph (Yusuf) and concludes by stating that the best among the Arabs in the pre-Islamic era will also be the best in Islam if they possess understanding of religious knowledge. This underscores the importance of piety and knowledge over mere lineage.
Modern Application
In today's society, this hadith encourages individuals to prioritize moral integrity and righteousness over social status or heritage. It serves as a reminder that true honor comes from one's character and actions, inspiring people to seek knowledge and understanding in their faith.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Community and Prophetic Teachings because it emphasizes the significance of righteousness and understanding in determining a person's honor within the community.
They said, "Are you indeed Joseph?" He said "I am Joseph, and this is my brother. Allah has certainly favored us. Indeed, he who fears Allah and is patient, then indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good."
Indeed, the most worthy of Abraham among the people are those who followed him [in submission to Allah] and this prophet, and those who believe [in his message]. And Allah is the ally of the believers.
Or do you say that Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Descendants were Jews or Christians? Say, "Are you more knowing or is Allah?" And who is more unjust than one who conceals a testimony he has from Allah? And Allah is not unaware of what you do.
Those were the ones upon whom Allah bestowed favor from among the prophets of the descendants of Adam and of those We carried [in the ship] with Noah, and of the descendants of Abraham and Israel, and of those whom We guided and chose. When the verses of the Most Merciful were recited to them, they fell in prostration and weeping.
O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.
