What is the source and authenticity of the Hadith regarding the three levels of ‘nahi ‘anil munkar’. i.e. Stopping the evil with one’s hands, by means of the tongue and with his heart.
Answer
Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration as part of a longer Hadith. The Hadith is therefore authentic.
The part in question is as follows:
Sayyiduna Abu Sa’id Al Khudri (radiyallahu ‘anhu) said, I heard Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) say:
“Whomsoever sees an evil, let him change it with his hand, if he is unable to do so, then [let him change it] with his tongue and if he is unable to do that, then with his heart and that is the weakest Iman”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 49)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar