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The Pleasant Nature of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ

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The Beloved Prophet's ﷺ manner of Good-Naturedness

The qualities of the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ sense of humor

The Beloved Prophet ﷺ used to express light-heartedness with his companions, with children, and with his family members, bringing joy to their hearts. His sense of humor was always expressed in the best manner, such that it never caused anyone any hurt or discomfort. In this part of the course, we will discuss some of the qualities of the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ humor, so that when we engage in humor while following the Seerah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, we keep these points in mind.

The humor of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was based on truth

The Beloved Prophet ﷺ always spoke the truth throughout his blessed life — even when joking, he never uttered anything contrary to reality. Generally, when we joke with someone, we often say, "I was just joking." This phrase has become so common in jokes that people no longer view it as problematic. However, Islam does not permit lying even in jokes. Therefore, to use lies as a means of humor goes against the Seerah of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ. Hence, when engaging in humor, one should always speak the truth. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah Almighty praises truth in such a way that He commands the believers to be among the truthful. Allah Almighty says: یٰۤاَیُّهَا الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللّٰهَ وَ كُوْنُوْا مَعَ الصّٰدِقِیْنَ "O believers! Fear Allah, and be with the truthful ones." (Surah At-Tawbah, 9:119) Speaking the truth leads to Paradise, and lying leads to Hell. This is stated in a Hadith of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ: عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ: «إِنَّ الصِّدْقَ يَهْدِي إِلَى البِرِّ، وَإِنَّ البِرَّ يَهْدِي إِلَى الجَنَّةِ، وَإِنَّ الرَّجُلَ لَيَصْدُقُ حَتَّى يَكُونَ صِدِّيقًا.وَإِنَّ الكَذِبَ يَهْدِي إِلَى الفُجُورِ، وَإِنَّ الفُجُورَ يَهْدِي إِلَى النَّارِ، وَإِنَّ الرَّجُلَ لَيَكْذِبُ حَتَّى يُكْتَبَ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ كَذَّابًا Narrated by Abdullah bin Mas'ud رضي الله عنه: The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: "Indeed, truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man continues to speak the truth until he is recorded with Allah as a truthful person (ṣiddīq). And indeed, lying leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Hellfire. A man continues to lie until he is recorded with Allah as a liar (kadhdhāb)." (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 6094)

The humor of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ remained within the boundaries of Islamic law

Every action of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was in accordance with the Shari‘ah, and even when engaging in humor (light-heartedness), he ﷺ always remained mindful of this. When we reflect on ourselves, however, we often cross limits while joking — sometimes we hurt someone's feelings, sometimes (Allah forbid) we mock something created by Allah, sometimes we resort to lies, and at times we even scare someone in the name of humor. All of these behaviors go beyond the boundaries set by the Shari‘ah. But the Seerah of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ teaches us that every action of a believer should remain within the limits prescribed by Shari‘ah. Whoever crosses the boundaries set by Allah Almighty commits a sin and wrongs his own soul. Allah Almighty states in the Qur’an: وَ مَنْ یَّتَعَدَّ حُدُوْدَ اللّٰهِ فَقَدْ ظَلَمَ نَفْسَهٗ “And whoever transgresses the limits of Allah, indeed he has done wrong to himself.” (Surah at-Talaq, 65:1) The Holy Prophet ﷺ also forbade crossing the boundaries of Shari‘ah. The Hadith states: وَحدَّ لَكُمْ حُدُودًا فَلَا تَعْتَدُوهَا “Allah has set limits for you, so do not overstep them.” (Sunan al-Daraqutni, Hadith 4396)

There was gentleness and love in the humor of the Holy Prophet ﷺ

According to Islamic teachings, gentleness is such a noble quality that it brings with it other beautiful traits like mercy, compassion, kindness, and forgiveness. It also draws people closer. Allah Almighty made the Blessed Prophet ﷺ naturally gentle in temperament. Even when he engaged in humor, it was always filled with gentleness, love, and kindness. This beautiful quality of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ is also mentioned in the Holy Qur’an. Allah Almighty says: فَبِمَا رَحْمَةٍ مِّنَ اللّٰهِ لِنْتَ لَهُمْۚ-وَ لَوْ كُنْتَ فَظًّا غَلِیْظَ الْقَلْبِ لَا نْفَضُّوْا مِنْ حَوْلِك "So, what a great mercy it is from Allah that, O Beloved, you became soft-hearted towards them. And if you had been harsh and hard-hearted, they would have therefore certainly been anxious in your surrounding." (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:159) Highlighting the importance of gentleness, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ: «يَا عَائِشَةُ» إِنَّ اللهَ رَفِيقٌ يُحِبُّ الرِّفْقَ، وَيُعْطِي عَلَى الرِّفْقِ مَا لَا يُعْطِي عَلَى الْعُنْفِ، وَمَا لَا يُعْطِي عَلَى مَا سِوَاهُ Narrated by Sayyidatuna A’isha رضي الله عنها: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "O A’isha! Indeed, Allah is Gentle and loves gentleness. He gives for gentleness what He does not give for harshness, and what He does not give for anything else." (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2593) Unfortunately, in today’s society, unnecessary harshness has taken the place of gentleness. As a result, many people have lost the spirit of goodwill, compassion, and kindness. Our temperaments have become like fading embers — a slight gust of wind is enough to rekindle them into flames. Quarreling over trivial matters, becoming furious over small mistakes, and being quick to fight or argue has become widespread. The root cause of this behavior is the absence of gentleness. Therefore, we must make every effort to bring gentleness into our character and protect ourselves from unnecessary harshness and coldness in our behavior.

The humor of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was full of intelligence and wisdom

Wisdom and intelligence are a special grace from Allah Almighty, and He grants this grace to whomever He wills. Allah Almighty states in the Holy Qur’an: یُّؤْتِی الْحِكْمَةَ مَنْ یَّشَآءُۚ-وَ مَنْ یُّؤْتَ الْحِكْمَةَ فَقَدْ اُوْتِیَ خَیْرًا كَثِیْرًا “Allah grants wisdom to whomsoever He wills; and whosoever receives wisdom has received goodness in abundance.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:269) Allah Almighty made the Beloved Prophet ﷺ perfect and complete in every way, and He granted him the highest level of intelligence and wisdom. Even when the Beloved Prophet ﷺ engaged in humor, he would do so with remarkable wisdom and intelligence. From a social perspective as well, such thoughtful humor brings peace and comfort to the heart, and people do not feel weary or restless in the company of someone who possesses such qualities.

The humor of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ would bring joy and comfort to the hearts

Bringing happiness to a Muslim’s heart is among the deeds most beloved to Allah Almighty. Our Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: أَحَبُّ الْأَعْمَالِ إِلَى اللَّهِ سُرُورٌ تُدْخِلُهُ عَلَى مُسْلِمٍ “The most beloved of deeds to Allah is bringing joy to the heart of a Muslim.” (Al-Mu'jam Al-Awsat by Tabarani, Hadith 6026) Whenever the Beloved Prophet ﷺ expressed humor or light-heartedness, it would uplift sorrowful hearts and bring them joy. Therefore, we too should engage in humor and light-heartedness in such a manner that it brings happiness to others’ hearts without causing anyone any harm or discomfort. May Allah Almighty grant us the ability to adopt these beautiful qualities of the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ humor, and may our lightheartedness never become a cause of pain for anyone. Ameen.

The Islamic Concept of Humor (Good-Naturedness)

The lexical meaning of mizah is “to be cheerful, to engage in lightheartedness, to make jokes.” However, in Islamic terms, mizah refers to such humor in which there is no falsehood, no hurt to anyone’s feelings, and no causing of harm. Such lightheartedness is not prohibited in the Sacred Shari‘ah; however, it is necessary to consider the occasion and also to ensure that it does not become a habit. For when a person becomes habitual in it, his personality is badly affected, and his dignity does not remain intact. The Noble Prophet ﷺ, on different occasions, engaged in humor, but his humor was always based on truth and reality. The blessed hadith states: عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ قَالَ: قَالُوا: يَا رَسُولَ اللّٰهِ إِنَّكَ تُدَاعِبُنَا. قَالَ: إِنِّي لَا أَقُولُ إِلَّا حَقًا. “It is narrated from Abu Hurairah رضي الله عنه that the Companions رضي الله عنهم said: ‘O Messenger of Allah ﷺ, indeed you joke with us.’ He ﷺ replied: ‘I do not say except the truth.’” (Mishkat al-Masabih, Hadith 4885) From this saying of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, it becomes clear that humor is a good quality, because the Noble Prophet ﷺ himself engaged in lightheartedness. Examples of this will be mentioned later in this course. Any action that the Noble Prophet ﷺ adopted cannot be meaningless or bad. Therefore, being cheerful and engaging in lightheartedness—while remaining within the limits of the Shari‘ah—is completely permissible.

The Islamic Ruling on Joking and Cheerfulness

Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan Naeemi رحمه الله writes: It is haram to joke with someone in such a way that it causes him hurt. However, joking in a manner that brings happiness to a person—which is referred to as cheerfulness and good humor—is permissible. In fact, sometimes being cheerful is even a Sunnah. As Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan Naeemi رحمه الله states: “It is proven that the Noble Prophet ﷺ would occasionally engage in cheerful humor. For this reason, the scholars have stated that occasionally showing cheerfulness is a recommended Sunnah.” (Mirat al-Manajih, Vol. 6, p. 493) Imam Muhammad Ghazali رحمه الله states: If you are able to follow the example of the Holy Prophet ﷺ and the noble Companions رضي الله عنهم—that is, when you engage in humor you only speak the truth, you do not cause anyone grief, you do not go to excess, and you only do it occasionally—then there is no harm for you either. But turning humor into a constant habit/profession is a great mistake. (Ihya Ulum al-Din, Book of the Afflictions of the Tongue, Chapter on Joking, Vol. 3, p. 159) Imam Ghazali رحمه الله further explains: That type of humor is forbidden which is done excessively and continually. As for always joking, the problem with it is that it becomes a form of play and frivolity. Although play (in certain cases) may be permissible, being occupied in it continuously is blameworthy. The problem with excessive joking is that it leads to excessive laughter, and excessive laughter causes the heart to die. At times, it even sows hatred in the heart and strips away dignity and respect. Thus, any humor free of these harms is not blameworthy, as the Noble Prophet ﷺ said: “Indeed, I also joke, but I only speak the truth in my humor.” (Mu‘jam al-Awsat, Hadith 995) However, this was unique to the Beloved Prophet ﷺ—he would joke but never include any falsehood. As for others, they often resort to humor merely to make people laugh, regardless of what they say. Concerning this, the Noble Prophet ﷺ warned: “A man says something to make his companions laugh, and because of it he falls into Hell farther than the distance of the star Thurayya (Pleiades).” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 9231) May Allah Almighty grant us the ability to engage in permissible cheerfulness and protect us from impermissible joking. Ameen.

Examples of Good-Naturedness from the Beloved Prophet's ﷺ Seerah

In this third stage of the course, we will mention moments in which the Beloved Prophet ﷺ engaged in cheerful humor. The purpose is to provide practical examples that reflect the qualities discussed in the previous stage. By observing these examples, we will gain a clearer understanding of the proper manner and approach to engaging in cheerful interactions. In light of these characteristics from the life of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, we too can practice such humor that remains within the boundaries of Shari’ah and brings joy to the hearts of fellow Muslims.

Every camel is the offspring of a she-camel

عَنْ أَنَسٍ رضی اللہ عنہ أَنَّ رَجُلًا اسْتَحْمَلَ رَسُولَ اللّٰهِ ﷺ فَقَالَ: إِنِّي حَامِلُكَ عَلٰى وَلَدِ نَاقَةٍ؟ فَقَالَ: مَا أَصْنَعُ بِوَلَدِ النَّاقَةِ؟ فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللّٰهِ صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: وَهَلْ تَلِدُ الْإِبِلُ إِلَّا النُّوقُ Translation: Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه reported: A man once asked the Messenger of Allah ﷺ for a mount. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said, "I will mount you on the offspring of a she-camel." The man replied, "O Messenger of Allah ﷺ, what will I do with the offspring of a she-camel?" The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, "Are camels born from anything other than she-camels?" (i.e., every camel is the offspring of a she-camel). (Jāmi‘ al-Tirmidhī, Ḥadīth 1991)

No old woman will enter Paradise

An old woman once came to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ and said: يا رسول الله أدع الله أن يدخلني الجنة. فقال يا أم فلان! انّ الجنة لا تدخلها عجوز “O Messenger of Allah ﷺ, pray to Allah Almighty that He grants me entry into Paradise.” The Beloved Prophet ﷺ replied: “O mother of so-and-so! No old woman will enter Paradise.” Upon hearing this, the woman began to cry and turned to leave. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ then said: أنها لا تدخلها وهي عجوز “Tell her that she will not enter Paradise as an old woman.” This is because Allah Almighty has said in the Qur’an: إِنَّا أَنْشَأْناهُنَّ إِنْشاءً فَجَعَلْناهُنَّ أَبْكاراً “We have indeed created these women (i.e. the maidens of Paradise) with an excellent growth. Hence made them virgins.” (Surah al-Wāqi‘ah, 56:35–36) (Ash-Shamā’il al-Muḥammadiyyah, Chapter: The Description of the Holy Prophet’s ﷺ Humor, p. 143)

O two-eared one

عَنْ أَنَسِ بْنِ مَالِكٍ أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ ﷺ قَالَ لَهُ: يَا ذَا الْأُذُنَيْنِ Narration: Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه reported that the Beloved Prophet ﷺ once said to him: "O two-eared one!" (Sharḥ al-Sunnah by al-Baghawī, Ḥadīth 3606) Mufti Ahmad Yar Khan Naeemi علیہ الرحمہ, after mentioning this narration, writes—citing Mirqāt al-Mafātīḥ—that Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه had slightly larger-than-usual ears, which is why the Beloved Prophet ﷺ playfully addressed him as "the one with two ears," just as Khirbāq ibn Sāriyah was affectionately called Dhūl-Yadayn (the one with two hands). Alternatively, it may be that Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه had exceptionally strong hearing or was very intelligent. In any case, this noble statement of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ contains both praise for Sayyiduna Anas رضي الله عنه and a touch of gentle humor. This is the beautiful, lighthearted humor of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ. (Mir’āt al-Manājīḥ, Vol. 6, Ḥadīth 4887)

O Abu Umair, what happened to your little bird

عَنْ أَنَسِ بْنِ مَالِكٍ، قَالَ: كَانَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ: يَدْخُلُ عَلَيْنَا وَلِي أَخٌ صَغِيرٌ يُكْنَى أَبَا عُمَيْرٍ وَكَانَ لَهُ نُغَرٌ يَلْعَبُ بِهِ، فَمَاتَ، فَدَخَلَ عَلَيْهِ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ ذَاتَ يَوْمٍ فَرَآهُ حَزِينًا، فَقَالَ: «مَا شَأْنُهُ؟» قَالُوا: مَاتَ نُغَرُهُ، فَقَالَ: «يَا أَبَا عُمَيْرٍ مَا فَعَلَ النُّغَيْرُ؟ Narrated by Anas bin Malik رضي الله عنه: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ used to visit us. I had a younger brother who was known by the kunyah Abu ‘Umair. He had a small bird that he used to play with. One day, the bird died. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ came to our house and saw the boy sad. He asked, "What is the matter with him?" They said, "His little bird has died." So the Beloved Prophet ﷺ affectionately said, "O Abu ‘Umair! What happened to your nughayr?" (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith 4969)

The Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ Lighthearted Humor and the Good Fortune of Sayyiduna Zahir

عن انسٍ أَنَّ رَجُلًا مِنْ أَهْلِ الْبَادِيَةِ كَانَ اسْمُهُ زَاهِرَ بْنَ حَرَامٍ وَكَانَ يُهْدِيْ لِلنَّبِيِ ﷺ مِنَ الْبَادِيَةِ فَيُجَهِّزُهٗ رَسُولُ اللّٰهِ ﷺ إِذَا أَرَادَ أَنْ يَخْرُجَ فَقَالَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ: إِنَّ زَاهِرًا بَادِيَتُنَا وَنَحْنُ حَاضِرُوهُ . وَكَانَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ يُحِبُّهٗ وَكَانَ دَمِيمًا فَأَتَى النَّبِيُّ ﷺ يَوْمًا وَهُوَ يَبِيعُ مَتَاعَهٗ فَاحْتَضَنَهٗ مِنْ خلفِه وَهُوَ لَا يُبْصِرْهٗ. فَقَالَ: أَرْسِلْنِيْ مَنْ هٰذَا؟ فَالْتَفَتَ فَعَرَفَ النَّبِيَّ ﷺ فَجَعَلَ لَا يَألُوْا مَا أَلْزَقَ ظَهْرَهٗ بِصَدْرِ النَّبِيِّ ﷺ حِينَ عَرَفَهٗ وَجَعَلَ النَّبِيَّ ﷺ يَقُولُ: مَنْ يَشْتَرِي الْعَبْدَ؟ فَقَالَ: يَا رَسُولَ اللّٰهِ إِذًا وَاللّٰهِ تَجِدُنِي كَاسِدًا فَقَالَ النَّبِيُّ ﷺ: لٰكِنْ عِنْدَ اللّٰهِ لَسْتَ بِكَاسِدٍ Narrated by Anas رضي الله عنه: There was a rural man named Zahir ibn Haram, who used to bring gifts to the Beloved Prophet ﷺ from the countryside. And whenever he intended to return, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ would also gift him something in return. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ once said about him: “Zahir is our rural brother, and we’re his urban brothers.” The Beloved Prophet ﷺ loved him, although he was not physically attractive. One day, Zahir came to the city and was selling some goods in the market. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ came to him from behind and hugged him, while Zahir did not see who it was. He exclaimed, “Let me go! Who is this?” When he turned and recognized that it was the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, he stopped trying to get away and instead pressed his back against the Holy Prophet’s blessed chest out of joy. Then the Beloved Prophet ﷺ began to joke and said, “Who will buy this slave?” Zahir replied, “O Messenger of Allah! In that case, by Allah, you’ll find me unsellable (i.e., worthless).” The Beloved Prophet ﷺ replied, “But in the sight of Allah, you are not worthless.” (Sharh al-Sunnah by al-Baghawi, Hadith 3604)

Sayyidatuna Umm Ayman رضي الله عنها and the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ Pleasant Humor

عن زيد بن أسلم أن امرأة يقال لها أم أيمن جاءت النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فقالت: إن زوجي يدعوك، قال: «من هو؟ أهو الذي بعينيه بياض؟» فقالت: أيّ يا رسول الله؟ والله ما بعينيه بياض، فقال رسول الله ﷺ: «بل إن بعينيه بياضا» ، فقالت: لا ولله، فقال النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم: «وهل من أحد وإلا وبعينيه بياض؟» Sayyiduna Zaid bin Aslam رضي الله عنه narrates: Sayyidatuna Umm Ayman رضي الله عنها came to the court of the Noble Prophet ﷺ and said: “My husband is calling you.” The Holy Prophet ﷺ said: “Who? The one with whiteness in his eyes?” She replied: “O Messenger of Allah ﷺ, by Allah, there is no whiteness in his eyes.” The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: “Indeed, there is whiteness in his eyes.” She again said: “By Allah, there is not.” The Noble Prophet ﷺ replied: “Is there anyone whose eyes do not have whiteness?” (By this, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ meant the sclera (natural whiteness) that surrounds the iris of the eyes.) (Subul al-Huda wal-Rashad, Jami‘ Abwab Sifatihi al-Ma‘nawiyyah, Chapter Twenty-Two on His Humor, Vol. 7, p. 114)

The Cheerfulness of the Holy Prophet ﷺ with the Mothers of the Believers

عَنْ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ قَالَ: قَالَتْ عَائِشَةُ: زَارَتْنَا سَوْدَةُ يَوْمًا فَجَلَسَ رَسُولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ بَيْنِي وَبَيْنَهَا إِحْدَى رِجْلَيْهِ فِي حِجْرِي، وَالْأُخْرَى فِي حِجْرِهَا، فَعَمِلْتُ لَهَا حَرِيرَةً، فَقُلْتُ: كُلِي، فَأَبَتْ فَقُلْتُ: " لَتَأْكُلِي، أَوْ لَأُلَطِّخَنَّ وَجْهَكِ، فَأَبَتْ، فَأَخَذْتُ مِنَ الْقَصْعَةِ شَيْئًا فَلَطَّخْتُ بِهِ وَجْهَهَا، فَرَفَعَ رَسُولُ اللهِ ﷺ رِجْلَهُ مِنْ حِجْرِهَا تَسْتَقِيدُ مِنِّي، فَأَخَذَتْ مِنَ الْقَصْعَةِ شَيْئًا فَلَطَّخَتْ بِهِ وَجْهِي، وَرَسُولُ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَضْحَكُ Abu Salamah رحمه الله narrates that Sayyidatuna Aisha رضي الله عنها said: Sayyidatuna Sawda رضي الله عنها came to visit us one day. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ sat down between me and her, with one of his legs in my lap and the other in her lap. I prepared hareera (a dish made with flour and ghee) for her, and I said, “Eat.” She refused. I said, “You will eat, or I will smear it on your face.” She still refused, so I took some from the dish and smeared it on her face. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ then lifted his leg from her lap so that she might take her turn against me. She took some from the dish and smeared it on my face, while the Messenger of Allah ﷺ was smiling. (Al-Sunan al-Kubra by al-Nasai, Hadith 8868)

How Sayyiduna Safina رضي الله عنه Received the Name Safina?

A man once asked Sayyiduna Safina رضي الله عنه his name. He refused to mention it and said: “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ himself gave me the name Safina.” The man then asked: “Why did the Messenger of Allah ﷺ name you Safina? At least tell me the Sayyiduna Safina رضي الله عنه then explained the reason behind this name and said: خَرَجَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ وَمَعَهُ أَصْحَابُهُ، فَثَقُلَ عَلَيْهِمْ مَتَاعُهُمْ، فَقَالَ لِي: «ابْسُطْ كِسَاءَكَ» فَبَسَطْتُهُ، فَجَعَلُوا فِيهِ مَتَاعَهُمْ، ثُمَّ حَمَلُوهُ عَلَيَّ، فَقَالَ لِي رَسُولُ اللَّهِ ﷺ: «احْمِلْ، فَإِنَّمَا أَنْتَ سَفِينَةُ» The Messenger of Allah ﷺ set out on a journey along with his companions. Their belongings became too heavy for them to carry. The Holy Prophet ﷺ said to me: ‘Spread your shawl.’ So I spread it, and they placed their belongings in it. Then they loaded all of it upon me. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ then said to me: ‘Carry it, for you are indeed a safina (a ship).’ (Meaning: your strength is like that of a ship that carries many burdens.)

Etiquette and Benefits of Good-Natured Humor

We have carefully studied several moments of the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ humor and good-natured interactions. Undoubtedly, after reading and reflecting on these accounts, it becomes clear that through humor and light-heartedness, one can bring joy to others, create a pleasant atmosphere, and foster love and affection. While this is indeed true, it is also important to remember that every good action comes with proper etiquette and practical considerations that must be observed. At this stage of the course, we will now discuss the etiquette of good-natured humor as well as its benefits, so that by observing this etiquette, this noble act can become more effective and beneficial.

One should not engage in humor with everyone

It is crucial to be mindful of who you choose to engage with in humor and light-heartedness. Some people, by nature, do not respond well to it — they may become irritated quickly or feel annoyed. In such cases, it is better to avoid joking or being playful with them.

Do not go to extremes in humor

Do not exceed limits in humor and good-natured jesting. This means avoiding obscene or inappropriate language and ensuring that the light-heartedness remains within suitable bounds. Even with those you share humor with, it should be limited to an appropriate time and context. Constant joking can sometimes make the atmosphere unpleasant, so this should be carefully observed.

One should avoid loud laughter in humor

Laughing so loudly during humor that one hears their own voice, or laughing with such volume that others can hear it too, both of these manners are inappropriate and disliked. At times, the laughter during light-hearted moments becomes so loud and excessive that the gathering begins to resemble not one of cheerful humor, but rather that of the heedless, the sinful, or the careless. Therefore, during humorous exchanges, it is best to adopt only a gentle and modest smile.

Humor should be used appropriately for the occasion

Humor and good-naturedness should be shown in a manner appropriate to the situation. For example, if the setting is solemn, such as when scholars or elders are engaged in discussion or reflection on an important matter, or during an occasion of grief, such as a death in the family, then one should adopt seriousness instead of humor. Otherwise, it is possible that the person may be asked to leave the gathering, and they will be responsible for it themselves.

Humor should not become a cause of conflict

Care should also be taken in humor that it does not lead to misunderstandings, or that the joking does not become so harsh that the other person is unable to tolerate it, resulting in conflict. Such behavior is certainly blameworthy, and Islamic teachings strictly prohibit this type of humor. Therefore, one should avoid such forms of jesting.

There should be no mockery or humiliation of anyone in humor

No one should be mocked in humor, nor should any of their traits be belittled. The permission our religion gives for humor is based on the fundamental condition that it should not cause harm or discomfort to anyone. Therefore, a Muslim should never be made the subject of mockery in the name of humor.

Humor should be such that it increases love and affection

We have learned about the style and qualities of the Beloved Prophet’s ﷺ humor. Such humor nurtures love and strengthens mutual relationships. This is the kind of humor that should be adopted.

Benefits of Humor

Mental Relaxation and Stress Reduction Humor and laughter play a significant role in reducing mental stress. When we laugh, our brain releases hormones that help alleviate tension and anxiety. Laughter temporarily distances a person from their problems and provides mental calmness. According to psychologists, those who make humor a part of their lives experience less mental stress and tend to have better mental health.

Improvement in Social Relationships

Humor and cheerfulness help establish positive connections between people. Cheerful and pleasant individuals tend to be more popular, and others enjoy spending time with them. Humor can lighten even the most intense environments and helps in resolving misunderstandings. It is easier to form friendships and relationships with a cheerful person, as they make an effort to keep others happy.

Increase in Creative Ability

Humor enhances mental capabilities and improves the ability to think. People who laugh more are often skilled at finding unique and innovative solutions to problems. Humor boosts the brain’s capacity and makes it easier to generate new ideas. Individuals working in creative fields, such as artists and writers, often use humor to refine and elevate their talents.

Improvement in Work Performance

Laughter and a pleasant environment have a positive impact in offices and workplaces as well. A person who enjoys humor and keeps others happy tends to perform better. Instead of working under pressure, if tasks are carried out with cheerfulness and a positive attitude, performance improves significantly. Successful companies create an environment for their employees where humor and friendly conversations are encouraged so that their productivity can increase.

Reduction in the Effects of Aging

Laughter helps reduce the effects of aging. People who laugh more tend to have fresher-looking skin and develop wrinkles later. Additionally, cheerful individuals are generally healthier and more energetic. Humor provides positive energy and improves both physical and mental health, allowing a person to feel youthful for longer.

Heals the sick

Laughter is considered a natural medicine that helps in the treatment of many illnesses. It brings positive changes to the body, strengthening the immune system. Doctors also advise patients to stay happy, as positive thinking and humor assist in quicker recovery from illnesses. According to some research studies, patients who are provided with a more cheerful environment tend to recover faster than others.

Ten Negative Forms of Humor in Our Time

In this final part of the course, we will reflect on ourselves and examine whether our humor and lightheartedness align with the character of the Beloved Prophet ﷺ or go against it. We’ve probably heard the phrase many times: “Hey, I was just joking — things got too serious!” Or perhaps we ourselves have said it. Why is it that my joke, instead of making my friend happy, ends up causing him pain? There can be several reasons for this. A few of those reasons are mentioned here, and they are quite common in our society. These are situations where, instead of producing the positive effects of good-naturedness, the opposite occurs. We need to be mindful of these reasons and avoid them.

Personal Attacks

While engaging in humor or lightheartedness, we sometimes end up making personal attacks on our loved ones, which can hurt their self-esteem and cause them emotional pain. Examples include mocking someone’s height, skin color, or speaking about their personal life in a joking manner. If we reflect honestly, any sensible person finds this kind of behavior distasteful — and if the same attitude were directed at us, we too would find it intolerable. So, how can it be acceptable to treat a close friend or loved one in such a way? Engage in humor, but do not make someone’s personal traits the subject of your jokes. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur’an: یٰۤاَیُّهَا الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا لَا یَسْخَرْ قَوْمٌ مِّنْ قَوْمٍ عَسٰۤى اَنْ یَّكُوْنُوْا خَیْرًا مِّنْهُمْ وَ لَا نِسَآءٌ مِّنْ نِّسَآءٍ عَسٰۤى اَنْ یَّكُنَّ خَیْرًا مِّنْهُنَّۚ "O believers! Men must not ridicule other men, it is likely that the ridiculed are better than the mockers; nor must the women ridicule other women, it is likely that the ridiculed women may be better than the mockers." (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:11)

Humor Based on Lies

Sometimes our humor and joking are also based on lies. In fact, a specific day of the year has been designated for such humor, celebrated globally on the first of April, known as “April Fool’s Day.” The basic idea behind this day is: “Lie to people on a global scale, cause them discomfort, and mock them.” As Muslims, we must reflect: Is this behavior aligned with the teachings of Islam? Is this something we learn from the noble character of our Beloved Prophet ﷺ? The clear answer is NO. Therefore, we must distance ourselves from this kind of humor and jesting. The Holy Prophet ﷺ said: أَنَا زَعِيمٌ بِبَيْتٍ فِي رَبَضِ الْجَنَّةِ لِمَنْ تَرَكَ الْمِرَاءَ وَإِنْ كَانَ مُحِقًّا، وَبِبَيْتٍ فِي وَسَطِ الْجَنَّةِ لِمَنْ تَرَكَ الْكَذِبَ وَإِنْ كَانَ مَازِحًا وَبِبَيْتٍ فِي أَعْلَى الْجَنَّةِ لِمَنْ حَسَّنَ خُلُقَهُ “I guarantee a house in the lowest part of Paradise for the one who gives up arguing, even if he is right; a house in the middle of Paradise for the one who avoids lying, even in jest; and a house in the highest part of Paradise for the one who has good character.” (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith 4800)

Humor in Religious Matters

While engaging in humor and lightheartedness, people often fail to realize when they begin joking about religious and sacred matters — and this is extremely dangerous, as it can even lead to the loss of faith. Joking about a verse of the Qur'an, denying a command of the Qur'an in jest, mocking a hadith, making fun of angels, or joking about Paradise and Hell — even mocking a saint or a righteous servant of Allah — all of these fall into this serious category. Therefore, one must firmly resolve that their humor will never involve any matter related to religion or faith. In fact, the Qur'an clearly commands believers not to even sit with these kinds of people. Allah Almighty says: وَإِذَا رَ‌أَيْتَ الَّذِينَ يَخُوضُونَ فِي آيَاتِنَا فَأَعْرِ‌ضْ عَنْهُمْ "And O listener! When you see those who rudely argue concerning Our verses; so, turn away from them." (Surah Al-An‘am, 6:68)

Mocking the Weak and Old

In our society, it is often seen that when someone is weak, mentally unwell, or poor, they become the subject of mockery. People sometimes go as far as making strange noises or gestures to tease and trouble them. Such behavior is not befitting of a Muslim. The Beloved Prophet ﷺ said: مَنْ ضَارَّ مُسْلِمًا ضَارَّ اللَّهُ بِهِ "Whoever harms a Muslim, Allah will harm him." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1940)

Mocking Others for Their Lack of Knowledge or Understanding

This type of mockery is often observed among students. For example, when a student has difficulty understanding something in class, or takes longer to grasp a concept, or asks a question that others find basic or obvious — those who are sharper, quicker to understand, or already familiar with the topic sometimes make fun of that student’s lack of understanding or knowledge. However, our religion strictly prohibits such behavior. At the beginning, we mentioned a verse of the Qur’an in which both Muslim men and women are clearly forbidden from mocking other Muslim men and women. This command of Allah should always remain in our minds and guide our behavior.

Offensive Memes and Videos in the Name of Humor on Social Media

These are modern inventions of the modern age and new forms of so-called humor. Previously, if someone was mocked, it would remain limited to a few people. But now, that mockery is broadcast on social media. In this new form, people from all walks of life are involved in one way or another. Sometimes, memes are made about someone; sometimes their mannerisms are mocked, their voice is ridiculed, or even their character is attacked. Social media platforms are entirely unregulated spaces. Our society has fallen so low in this type of mockery that even the women of someone’s household are not spared. What’s even more astonishing is that the person who knows how to humiliate others in the most creative ways is considered a “performer” or “entertainer.” People say: “Look at how talented he is!” — but in reality, this is not a talent. It is, in fact, something deeply harmful for our society and for the coming generations. The negative impact of this trend will be such that truly capable individuals will begin to disappear, and those who know how to degrade others will rise as entertainers in society. This is a matter that deserves serious reflection.

Mischievous and Harmful Practical Jokes (Pranks)

Among the reckless methods of gaining fame is the trend of prank videos—yet people rarely pay attention to the harm they cause. Nowadays, it’s common to see on social media that a YouTuber, vlogger, or content creator does something simply to gain more views—something designed to amuse the audience, regardless of how distressing or humiliating it may be for the person on the receiving end of the prank. You’ll notice that when someone uploads a well-researched, informative five-minute video after hours of effort, it barely reaches a few thousand views. But when an "entertainer" uploads a ten- or fifteen-minute prank video—scaring random pedestrians, slapping someone, throwing a plastic bag on someone’s head, dropping things unexpectedly, or blowing loud horns in public—it quickly gains hundreds of thousands, even millions of views. Those greedy for fame stop at nothing and resort to any tactic—no matter how cheap or disgraceful—to make themselves known. Since positive and constructive content requires effort, we are now witnessing that our younger generation is rapidly leaning toward destructive behavior instead. In their pursuit of fame, they don’t hesitate to harm others. The psychological and moral damage caused by such prank videos to our youth is real and serious. The only way to protect them from this damage is to help them adopt the Beloved Prophet ﷺ as their true role model—not just in words, but in action. May Allah grant us the ability to follow the noble example of our Beloved Prophet ﷺ. Ameen.