The Arabic includes the chain of narration (sanad) and the collector's commentary; the English translation shows the Prophet's words only.
وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا يَزِيدُ بْنُ هَارُونَ، عَنْ هُشَيْمٍ، عَنْ عَبَّادِ بْنِ، أَبِي صَالِحٍ عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم
" الْيَمِينُ عَلَى نِيَّةِ الْمُسْتَحْلِفِ " .
An oath is to be interpreted according to the intention of the one who takes it.
Narrated by Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:
Context
This hadith teaches that the interpretation of an oath is based on the intention of the person making it. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasizes that the sincerity behind the oath is what matters most, guiding followers to reflect on their intentions when making promises.
Modern Application
In modern life, this principle encourages individuals to be mindful of their intentions when making commitments. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, understanding the weight of one's words can foster trust and accountability.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Intentions and Oaths and Vows because it focuses on the significance of intention behind oaths and the importance of sincerity in commitments.
That is more likely that they will give testimony according to its [true] objective, or [at least] they would fear that [other] oaths might be taken after their oaths. And fear Allah and listen; and Allah does not guide the defiantly disobedient people.
This hadith is #4154 from Sahih Muslim, in the Book of The Book of Oaths. It is graded Sahih and narrated by Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:.
