Definition Hadith Qudsi in Brief: Example and Introduction to the Book

Hadith Qudsi (also spelled Hadith Kudsi or Sacred Hadith) are a type of hadith (sayings, actions, and teachings) attributed to the Prophet Muhammad in Islam. Unlike other hadith, which are considered to be the words and actions of the Prophet as recorded by his companions, Hadith Qudsi are considered to be divine revelations that were revealed to the Prophet by Allah (God).

Hadith Qudsi are considered to be of particular importance and significance within Islam, as they are believed to be a direct revelation from God. They are often used to explain or clarify certain aspects of Islamic belief or practice and are highly respected by Muslims.

There are many Hadith Qudsi that are widely accepted as authentic and are widely quoted in Islamic literature. Some examples of Hadith Qudsi include:

  • “I am with My servant as he thinks of Me.”
  • “Verily, God has prescribed ihsan (perfection) in all things.”
  • “O My servants, I have forbidden oppression for Myself and have made it forbidden amongst you, so do not oppress one another.”
  • On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
    When Allah decreed the Creation He pledged Himself by writing in His book which is laid down with Him: My mercy prevails over my wrath. It was related by Muslim (also by al-Bukhari, an-Nasa’i and Ibn Majah). (Hadith 1, 40 Hadith Qudsi)

Hadith Qudsi are a source of guidance and inspiration for Muslims and are an important part of Islamic tradition and belief. Finally, one of the best examples of hadith qudsi is a book called 40 Hadith Qudsi, which you can see here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Unlike standard prophetic hadith which record the Prophet's own words and actions, Hadith Qudsi are regarded as divine revelations from Allah delivered through the Prophet. While the phrasing comes from Muhammad, the meaning is directly from God, making them uniquely sacred and authoritative within Islamic tradition and literature.
Muslims hold these narrations in high respect, using them to clarify complex aspects of faith and religious practice. They serve as a vital source of spiritual guidance and inspiration, offering deep insights into the nature of God, divine mercy, and the ethical expectations placed upon all believers today.
A famous example narrated by Abu Hurayrah states that when Allah decreed Creation, He pledged in His book that His mercy prevails over His wrath. This narration is recorded in major collections like Sahih Muslim and al-Bukhari, illustrating the foundational divine compassion that governs the entire Islamic theological framework.
Common themes include the prohibition of internal oppression, the importance of maintaining a positive perception of the Creator, and the necessity of pursuing perfection in all actions. These teachings emphasize the personal relationship between the servant and God, focusing heavily on mercy, justice, and the spiritual heart.