In the previous post, we established a powerful principle: Not everything the Prophet ﷺ did is automatically Sunnah.
Today, we go from general understanding into detailed examples, real-life misunderstandings, and how confusion spreads in society.
The Foundational Rule
Let us begin with the most important rule:
Every action of the Prophet ﷺ must be understood in one of two ways:
- As a Messenger (based on revelation – Wahy)
- As a human being (based on culture, habit, or personal preference)
If it is from revelation → We follow it.
If it is from human context → It is permissible, not obligatory.
Failing to apply this rule leads to serious confusion in religion.
A Powerful Incident: Barirah (RA) and Personal Choice
Let us understand this through a beautiful and deeply insightful incident.
A woman named Barirah (RA), who was once enslaved and later freed, had a husband named Mughith. After gaining freedom, she chose to separate from him. Mughith loved her deeply and suffered greatly.
Seeing his condition, the Prophet ﷺ advised Barirah: “Why not go back to him?”
She asked a critical question: “Is this a command from Allahﷻ? Or your personal advice?”
This question shows deep understanding of Islam.
Because if it was a command → she must obey.
If it was advice → she has a choice.
The Prophet ﷺ clarified: “It is not a command. It is only my suggestion.” And she chose not to return.
Did the Prophet ﷺ condemn her? No.
Why? Because this was not revelation—it was human advice.
This incident clearly proves: Not everything said by the Prophet ﷺ is binding law—only what is based on revelation is.
The Danger of Over-Religious Interpretation
Now reflect on our society today. People take every action, habit and ever personal preference and label it as “Sunnah”.
This creates:
- Confusion
- Burden
- Misguided practice
Islam becomes unnecessarily complicated.
Examples That Clarify the Truth
Let us now examine real-life examples.
- Food Preferences
The Prophet ﷺ ate certain foods.
Does that mean:
- Those foods are Sunnah?
- We must eat the same items?
No. Because food choices are based on availability, culture and personal taste. Even within one family if one person likes a food the other dislikes it. So how can we turn personal taste into religious obligation?
- Clothing and Accessories
The Prophet ﷺ wore:
- Certain types of footwear
- Certain fabrics
- Even a ring
Does that mean wearing that exact style is Sunnah? No. Because those were common in that society and used by everyone including the non-Muslims. If something is done by everyone in a culture, It is not automatically religious.
- Perfume (Attar)
The Prophet ﷺ used fragrance.
But ask:
- Was he the only one using it?
- Or was it common in society?
The answer: It was common.
So, using perfume is:
- Permissible
- Not a religious obligation
- Not a guaranteed source of reward
It is about: Cleanliness and Pleasantness—not ritual.
- Medical Practices (Hijama, Ash Treatment)
In those times, practices like bloodletting (hijama) and the use of ash to stop bleeding were common, as they were considered effective medical methods of that era and were widely known and practiced by many people. Today, however, we benefit from advanced medicine and safer, more reliable treatments that have been developed through scientific progress and research.
Should we abandon modern medicine and return to old methods? No.
Because Islam encourages choosing what is better and safer.
- Housing and Lifestyle
The Prophet ﷺ lived in:
- Simple homes
- Basic conditions
Does that mean we must avoid modern houses? No. That was based on the economic condition and availability. If he’s alive, he would have used what is available today
- Weapons and Tools
The Prophet ﷺ carried Spear and Armor. Does that mean we must carry weapons today? No. That was a necessity during his time, and he used it as a safety measure. Carrying Spear and Armor is not a religious identity.
- Walking Stick (Cane)
Sometimes he used a walking stick for support and balance. Does that make it Sunnah for everyone? No.
It is needed only when required.
- Turban (Headgear)
In those times, practices like bloodletting (hijama) and the use of ash to stop bleeding were common, as they were considered effective medical methods of that era and were widely known and practiced by many people. Today, however, we benefit from advanced medicine and safer, more reliable treatments that have been developed through scientific progress and research.
The Key Test: How to Identify Sunnah
Whenever you see an action, ask:
- Was this based on revelation?
- Or was it common in society?
- Did others (non-Muslims) also do it?
- Was it done before Prophethood as well?
If yes— Then it is not religious Sunnah. It is human practice.
A Critical Warning
Because of misunderstanding:
People today:
- Turn culture into religion
- Turn habits into Sunnah
- Create unnecessary divisions
They say:
- “This is Sunnah dress”
- “This is Sunnah style”
Without evidence.
This leads to: a confused and burdened community.
Conclusion
Islam is not about copying every detail. It is about understanding, following and applying what Allahﷻ has revealed wisely
The Prophet ﷺ is followed because: He is the Messenger of Allahﷻ. Not because: He was a human with personal habits.
Let us hold firmly to these truths:
- Follow revelation—not assumption
- Practice Islam with understanding—not imitation
- Respect Sunnah—but define it correctly
Because when understanding is correct practice becomes easy and when practice becomes easy faith becomes beautiful.
May Allahﷻ grant us:
- Correct knowledge
- Clear understanding
- And sincere practice
Peace be upon you, and the mercy and blessings of Allahﷻ.