As Blood Circulates In You

Safiyah bint Huyai (radi Allahu anha), the Mother of the Believers, said: “I came to visit the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) while he was in the state of Itikaf [seclusion in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan]. After having talked to him, I got up to return. The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) also got up with me and accompanied me a part of the way. At that moment two Ansari men passed by. When they saw him they quickened their pace. The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said to them, ‘Do not hurry. She is Safiyah, daughter of Huyai, my wife.’ They said: ‘Subhan Allah (Allah is free from imperfection)! O Messenger of Allah! (You are far away from any suspicion).’ The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) replied, ‘Satan circulates in a person like blood. I apprehended lest Satan should drop some evil thought in your minds.’” [Sahih Bukhari]

Even a passing thought of something undesirable about the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) is dangerous for Eeman (faith). In order to prevent any evil suspicions from arising, the Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) stopped the two Companions and explained to them the situation. This was done lest Shaytaan create some doubt in the minds of the two Companions.

The conclusion from this hadith is that if at any time there is a chance that your actions will allow somebody to question your uprightness then it is necessary to give an explanation to clarify the situation. This is particularly important for Ulema (scholars), who should remain aloof from such occasions and places that might induce people to start doubting their integrity and piety. This happens because Shaytaan is always trying to sow discord between people.

On the other hand, one should not jump to evil conclusions regarding others, but always give them the benefit of the doubt. The Prophet (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said to make seventy excuses for your Muslim brother or sister before you accuse him or her of anything. Do we even try to come up with seventy excuses, before rushing to pass an unfavorable judgment?