Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "The example of a Believer who recites the Qur'an, is that of a citron which
smells good and tastes good; And the example of a Believer who does not recite the Qur'an, is that of
a date which has no smell but tastes sweet; and the example of a hypocrite who recites the Qur'an, is
that of an aromatic plant which smells good but tastes bitter; and the example of a hypocrite who does
not recite the Qur'an, is that of a colocynth plant which has no smell and is bitter in taste."
Narrated by Narrated Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari:
Context
In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) uses metaphors to illustrate the different types of believers and hypocrites based on their relationship with the Qur'an. The believer who recites the Qur'an is compared to a fragrant and tasty citron, while the believer who does not recite it is likened to a date that lacks aroma but is sweet. Hypocrites are compared to aromatic plants with bitter tastes or bitter colocynths, emphasizing the importance of genuine faith and the Qur'an's role in it.
Modern Application
This hadith encourages individuals to engage with the Qur'an regularly, as it enriches their spiritual lives. In today's context, reading and reflecting on the Qur'an can provide guidance, comfort, and a sense of community, enhancing one's character and actions in daily life.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Quran and Prophetic Teachings because it emphasizes the significance of reciting the Qur'an and illustrates the characteristics of believers and hypocrites in relation to their engagement with it.
And whenever a surah is revealed, there are among the hypocrites those who say, "Which of you has this increased faith?" As for those who believed, it has increased them in faith, while they are rejoicing.
[He sent] a Messenger [Muhammad] reciting to you the distinct verses of Allah that He may bring out those who believe and do righteous deeds from darknesses into the light. And whoever believes in Allah and does righteousness - He will admit him into gardens beneath which rivers flow to abide therein forever. Allah will have perfected for him a provision.
Those to whom We have given the Book recite it with its true recital. They [are the ones who] believe in it. And whoever disbelieves in it - it is they who are the losers.
