Is this Hadith authentic?
Sayyidah Zaynab bintu Jahsh (radiyallahu ‘anha) relates: “I said O Messenger of Allah! Will we be destroyed when there are righteous people among us? He said: ‘[Yes], If evil deeds increase.’”
Answer
Imams Bukhari and Muslim (rahimahumallah) have recorded this Hadith as part of a longer narration. The Hadith is therefore authentic.
(Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 3346, 3598, 7059, 7135 and Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2880)
‘Evil deeds’ has been explained as zina, open sinning and immorality. This Hadith explains that when evil becomes widespread, then the pious will also be affected when the punishment of Allah strikes. However, each person will then be raised in the Hereafter in accordance to his intention [and level of obedience].
(Refer: Fathul Bari, Hadith: 7135)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar