Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam’s shadow

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

Answer

There are differences of opinions in respect to whether the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam possessed a shadow or not.

Imam Zurqaani states that Imam Ibn Al-Jawzi (RA) and Imam Abdullah Ibn Al-Mubarak (RA) have reported on the authority of Saaiduna Ibn Abbas Radiallahu Anhu that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam did not have a shadow.   (Sharah Zurqaani p.200 v.7)

However, there are other narrations which indicate that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalm did have a shadow.

Imam Ahmad (RA) has narrated from Saidah Aaisha Radiallahu Anha that Saaidha Zainab Radiallahu Anha said (part of a lengthy hadith) “Until one day I, at the time of midday, I could see the shadow of the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam.”   (Musnad Ahmad p.132 v.6)

Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri (RA) has said, “I haven’t come across any authentic narration with regards to the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam not having a shadow.”   (Fatawa Rashidiyyah p.167)

Allahmah Zafar Ahmad (RA) has said it would not be incorrect for one to hold the view that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam did have a shadow.  Similarly, if one believes that the Prophet of Allah Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam did not have a shadow, it could be justified.   (Imdaul Ahkaam p.340 v.1)

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham.