Hadith on Haya: The Sublime Modesty of the Prophet

The Sublime Modesty of the Prophet

Table of Contents

📖Sahih Muslim 2320
Abu Sa’id Khudri reported that Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) was more modest than the virgin behind the curtain (or in the apartment), and when he disliked anything, we recognized that from his face.

Understanding the Hadith

This hadith highlights the exceptional level of modesty of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

His modesty was greater than that of a young virgin girl, who, in Arab culture, was known for her extreme shyness and reservation.
The Prophet (ﷺ) did not openly express his disapproval in a harsh or humiliating way; his emotions were reflected subtly through his facial expressions.

1️⃣ Modesty (Haya) is a defining trait of true believers.
2️⃣ A leader does not need to be loud or harsh to show disapproval.
3️⃣ Non-verbal communication can be more powerful than words.

📖Surah Al-Ahzab (33:21)
“Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example for those who hope in Allah and the Last Day and remember Allah often.”

🔹 This verse affirms that the Prophet (ﷺ) was the ideal role model, and his modesty was a key part of his noble character.

Answering Common Misconceptions

🔹 Some people question how the Prophet (ﷺ) could be modest while marrying multiple women, including young and enslaved women. Let’s clarify this logically.

1. Marriage in Context – Modesty is Not Celibacy

Many people assume that modesty means avoiding marriage or sexual relations. However, Islam does not define modesty as celibacy or denial of natural desires.

Marriage is part of human nature and was encouraged by the Prophet (ﷺ) himself.
Having multiple wives was not unusual in historical contexts, and his marriages had significant social, political, and humanitarian purposes.

2. Young Marriage – Was It Wrong?

Critics often cite Aisha’s young age at marriage as a contradiction to his modesty. However:

Marrying young was a norm in that era. It was culturally acceptable and widely practiced across the world.
Aisha (RA) was not forced into marriage; in fact, she later expressed immense love and pride in being his wife.
Their marriage was based on deep intellectual and emotional connection. Aisha (RA) became one of the greatest scholars of Islam.

📖Surah An-Nur (24:32)
“And marry the unmarried among you and the righteous among your male slaves and female slaves. If they should be poor, Allah will enrich them from His bounty…”

🔹 This verse shows that marriage was encouraged to maintain social stability, not just personal desires.

3. The Prophet (ﷺ) and Slavery – Was He Oppressive?

Another misconception is that he had enslaved women for pleasure. This is historically false.

The Prophet (ﷺ) actively worked to free slaves, unlike others who sought to exploit them.
His wives were free women, except Maria (RA), who was gifted to him but was honored and later freed.
He established laws to phase out slavery, something no other society at the time had done.

📖Surah Al-Balad (90:13-14)
“And what will make you realize what is the difficult path? It is freeing a slave.”

🔹 This verse shows that freeing slaves was among the greatest good deeds in Islam. The Prophet (ﷺ) was part of this movement.

4. Can a Man Be Modest While Married?

Yes, because modesty in Islam is about character, not just external behavior.
The Prophet (ﷺ) was modest in his interactions, respectful toward his wives, and never abusive.
He never used his position for personal gain; he married for reasons beyond desire, The Prophet (ﷺ) did not view marriage as a means to satisfy personal desires but as a responsibility. Sahih al-Bukhari 5029 highlights that he was not interested in taking more wives for personal reasons but often did so to support women in need, especially widows or those without family.

📖Surah Al-Ahzab (33:53)
“And when you ask [his wives] for something, ask them from behind a screen. That is purer for your hearts and their hearts.”

🔹 Even his marriages followed strict guidelines of modesty.

This hadith teaches us that modesty is not about avoiding marriage or normal desires but about conducting oneself with dignity, respect, and self-restraint.

The Prophet (ﷺ) had multiple wives, but his relationships were built on justice, kindness, and wisdom.
His modesty was in his interactions, his fairness, and his respect for others.
Those who claim he was immodest misunderstand both his marriages and the concept of haya (modesty) in Islam.

📖Surah Al-Qalam (68:4)
“And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”

🔹 This verse confirms that no matter how people question his actions, the Prophet (ﷺ) was the best in character, including modesty.