English
Abu Hurayra narrated: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Among the best livelihoods for people is a man holding the reins of his horse in the way of Allah, flying on its back whenever he hears a call or alarm, seeking death or martyrdom where it may be found; or a man with a small flock at the peak of one of these hills or in one of these valleys, establishing prayer, giving zakat, and worshiping his Lord until certainty comes, being among people only in goodness.
Commentary and footnotes (1)
Note 1
(1) Regarding the saying: Or a man with a small flock at the peak of a hill, etc.: Al-Nawawi said: This hadith is evidence for those who prefer solitude over mixing with people. There is a well-known dispute on this. The Shafi‘i school and most scholars hold that mixing is better, provided one expects safety from trials. Some ascetics hold that solitude is better, citing this hadith. The majority respond that it applies to times of trials and wars or to someone who cannot protect others from himself or endure their harm. The prophets (peace be upon them), most Companions, Followers, scholars, and ascetics mixed with people, benefiting from attending Friday prayers, congregational prayers, funerals, visiting the sick, and circles of remembrance, among others. [Al-Marqah] In Al-Alamgiriyya: Abu Yusuf said it is disliked for a group to isolate themselves in a place, refrain from medicine, and worship Allah there, devoting themselves to it. Earning a lawful living and adhering to Friday and congregational prayers in cities is preferable and more obligatory. [Al-Tatarkhaniyya] This is supported by Abu Hurayra’s later narration: Do not do so, etc.