Ibn Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I asked the Messenger of Allah (PBUH): "Which action is dearest to Allah?" He (PBUH) replied, "Performing As-Salat (the prayer) at its earliest fixed time." I asked, "What is next (in goodness)?" He (PBUH) said, "Kindness towards parents." I asked, "What is next (in goodness)?" He (PBUH) said, "To participate in Jihad in the Cause of Allah."[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary:
This Hadith has already been mentioned. See Commentary on Hadith No. 314. Imam Al-Qurtubi says that the Prophet (PBUH) mentioned these three deeds in particular because they are a sign of other acts of obedience: He who does not perform a Salat at its prescribed time, without a valid reason, and delays it beyond its time fully knowing that it is a light but highly rewarding work, is bound to neglect the other good deeds. One who does not treat his parents nicely, in spite of the fact that he knows that they have the greatest rights over him, is bound to treat others in a less proper manner. One who does not wage Jihad against the infidels, although he is fully aware that they are avowed enemies of Islam, he is bound to give up fighting against people who are guilty of sins and impious acts.
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