Understanding the Sunnah: A Beginner’s Guide
Islam is guided by two primary sources: the Qurʾān, God’s revealed word, and the Sunnah, the example of Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ. While the Qurʾān outlines what to believe and the general framework of worship, the Sunnah shows us how to live it in our daily lives. For anyone new to Islam or any believer seeking practical steps, the Sunnah provides clear, concrete actions, words, and approvals that bring faith into practice.
What Is the Sunnah?
Literally meaning “path” or “way,” the Sunnah encompasses three aspects of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ life:
Verbal Teachings (Sunnah Qawliyyah)
These are the sayings of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ — his spoken words, advice, and teachings.
Practical Actions (Sunnah Fiʿliyyah)
These refer to the Prophet’s actions — his daily habits, rituals, and mannerisms, which serve as practical examples for Muslims to follow.
Tacit Approvals (Sunnah Taqrīriyyah)
These are instances where the Prophet ﷺ approved of the actions of his Companions without explicitly stating it. This happened in two ways:
- When he kept silent for an action and did not oppose it.
- When he showed his pleasure and smiled for a companion’s action.
Together, these guide Muslims not only in worship prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage but in every interaction and decision: family life, business ethics, social manners, and personal character.
What Is a Hadith?
A hadith is a recorded report of something the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said, did, or approved of. Each hadith typically consists of two parts:
- Isnād – the chain of narrators who passed the report down.
- Matn – the actual content of the saying or action.
The hadiths are the main source through which we know the Sunnah. Collections like Sahih al-Bukhārī or Sahih Muslim compile thousands of these reports with great care for authenticity. While not all hadīths are equally reliable, scholars have classified them based on rigorously studied criteria to ensure that Muslims can distinguish authentic teachings from weak or fabricated ones.
Why the Sunnah
Clarifies the Qurʾān
The Qurʾān commands believers to “establish prayer” and “give zakāh,” but does not detail how many units (rakʿahs) or the exact words and motions. The Sunnah fills in those details.
Models Moral Excellence
By following the Prophet’s Muḥammad ﷺ character his honesty, patience, generosity, and humility we cultivate virtues that benefit ourselves and society.
Ensures Balanced Practice
Islam is meant to be lived, not just theorized. The Sunnah balances spiritual duties with everyday ethics, reminding us that small acts of kindness and remembrance are also forms of worship.
Examples of the Sunnah
Below are simple, foundational practices that any can begin to adopt immediately.
Saying “Bismillāh” Before Actions
Before eating, drinking, or starting any task, say:
«بِسْمِ اللَّهِ»
“In the name of Allah.”
This invokes God’s blessing and awareness in every action.
Greeting with “As-salāmu ʿalaykum”
When meeting someone, say:
“Peace be upon you.”
The Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said, “Spread peace among yourselves” (Sahih Muslim), encouraging warmth and goodwill.
Using the Right Hand
For eating, drinking, giving or receiving items, use your right hand to honor the Sunnah and cultivate mindfulness.
Simple Ablution (Wuduʾ)
Before prayer, perform wuduʾ following these steps: wash hands, rinse mouth and nose, wash face, arms to the elbows, wipe head, and wash feet. This ritual purification readies both body and mind for worship.
Mindful Eating
The Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ taught us to eat slowly, share with neighbors, and avoid waste. He said: “O people, eat together and do not eat separately, for the blessing is in being together” (Ibn Mājah).
Living the Sunnah in Daily Life
The Sunnah shapes our character and relationships. Consider these habits:
Honesty in Business
The Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said: “The seller and the buyer have the right to annul the sale as long as they have not parted” (al-Bukhārī). Always be clear, fair, and trustworthy.
Compassion to Others
He showed kindness to orphans, animals, and the needy, teaching that mercy is fundamental to faith.
Patience in Difficulty
When facing hardship, recite:
«الْـحَمْدُ لِلّٰهِ»
“All praise is due to Allah,”
trusting in His wisdom.
Conclusion
The Sunnah is not an optional extra it is the living heart of Islam. By following the Prophet’s Muḥammad ﷺ words, actions, and approvals, we transform belief into a vibrant, compassionate way of life. Start with a simple practice today, and step by step, let the Sunnah guide you toward deeper faith, stronger character, and a more meaningful connection with Allah.
May Allah guide us.