One of the most profound narrations in Islam is the Hadith of Jibril. Many scholars describe it as the most important hadith in Islam because it summarizes the entire religion within a single conversation. This hadith is narrated by Umar ibn al Khattab and recorded in both Sahih al Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, the two most authentic books after the Quran.
It occurred around 80 days before the Prophet passed away, which highlights its significance as a final, comprehensive teaching for the Ummah.
One day, while the Companions were sitting with the Prophet, a man appeared. He wore dazzling white clothes and had jet black hair, yet showed no signs of travel. None of the Companions recognized him. He sat very close to the Prophet, placing his knees against the Prophets knees and resting his hands on his thighs.
The man began asking questions, and the Prophet answered. To the Companions amazement, the man would then affirm the Prophets answers, saying: You have spoken the truth.
Only later did the Prophet reveal to Umar that this man was Jibril who came to teach them their din.
The Prophet replied:
Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah to establish the five daily prayers to give zakah to fast in Ramadan and to perform hajj if one is able.
This outlines the Five Pillars of Islam — the practical foundation of a Muslims life.
The Prophet explained that Iman is to believe in:
Allah
His angels
His revealed scriptures
His messengers
The Last Day
Divine decree (Qadr), both its good and its bad
These are known as the Six Articles of Faith. Denying any of them invalidates ones belief.
The Prophet said:
It is to worship Allah as if you see Him and if you cannot see Him, know that He surely sees you.
Ihsan elevates ones worship to a higher state of God consciousness (taqwa) — living every moment with awareness that Allah is watching.
The Prophet replied:
The one being asked knows no more than the one asking.
Only Allah knows the exact timing of the Day of Judgment. However, the Prophet described some of its signs:
A slave woman will give birth to her mistress
The poor and barefooted shepherds will compete in constructing tall buildings
Today, we witness the second sign vividly in the Arab world — massive skyscrapers rising in cities like Dubai and Jeddah, often in competition with one another.
Islam Iman and Ihsan form the core of our religion — covering actions, beliefs, and spiritual excellence.
Qadr Divine Decree teaches us to accept lifes ups and downs with patience, while still taking responsibility for our choices.
Ihsan reminds us of accountability — that even if people do not see us, Allah always does.
Signs of the Hour remind us that this world is temporary and the Day of Judgment is approaching.
The Hadith of Jibril is not just a historical narration it is a blueprint for every Muslims life. It defines what it means to be a Muslim (Islam), what it means to truly believe (Iman), and how to perfect worship (Ihsan).
As the Prophet emphasized, Jibril came to teach us our religion in the clearest possible way.
May Allah grant us the ability to live by Islam, strengthen our Iman, and strive for Ihsan in all that we do. Ameen.
