I have seen a Hadith saying Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Striving in the part of Allah is better than all the good you can do for your family.’
The reference was mustadrak. How do we explain above Hadith with the other that says: the best of you is who is best to his family?
Jazakallahu khayran
Answer
This Hadith is indeed in Mustadrak Hakim (vol.3 pg.282) but with different words from what you have cited.
Sayyiduna Suhayl ibn ‘Umar (radiyallahu’anhu) reported that he heard Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) saying:
‘For any of you to remain in the path of Allah for one moment is better than all his good deeds that are done while with his family.’
[i.e, in his locality, as in contrast to being on journey in Allah’s path]
This Hadith is actually explaining the limitless rewards a person attains when being out in Allah’ path, rather than at home. It in no way contradicts the other Hadith that you have cited. Each one should be viewed in its proper context.
Striving in the path of Allah does not curb one from being good to his family.
One who strives in the path of Allah can still be good to them just as our Beloved Rasul (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) strove, and was still the best to his family.
Cautionary note:
Before objecting to any Hadith, one should first ensure that one has the correct translation and understanding of the Hadith. It is indeed assuring that you asked for clarity and did not step further into objecting on the Hadith after merely sufficing on a mistranslated version, as is quite common nowadays…
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar