Benefits & Rulings:

➊ From both of these hadiths, we learn that when a seemingly inappropriate meaning appears to be derived from an authentic hadith, it should be interpreted in such a way that the apparent objection no longer remains. This is because sometimes a hadith can be understood in more than one way. In such cases, the correct interpretation will be the one that is supported by the Holy Qur’an and other authentic hadiths.

➋ Just as there are verses in the Qur’an that address matters beyond the grasp of human intellect (not contrary to reason), likewise, sometimes a hadith may also mention such matters. In such cases, the proper course of action is to maintain faith in the hadith and acknowledge that the full meaning is best known to Allah. For example, hadiths that describe the attributes of Allah or the conditions of the grave and Barzakh. This approach is the best and closest to guidance and piety.