“If one of you has completed his Ḥajj, then let his journey be directed to his family, for that is greater in reward for him.”

Narrated by al-Ḥākim in al-Mustadrak (no. 1753, this is his wording), al-Dāraqutnī (no. 2790), and al-Bayhaqī in al-Sunan al-Kubrā (no. 10363), from the narration of ʿĀʾishah — may Allah be pleased with her.
In one of their wordings: “Let him hasten the journey (home).”
Authenticated in Ṣaḥīḥ al-Jāmiʿ (no. 732) and Silsilat al-Aḥādīth al-Ṣaḥīḥah (no. 1379).

Brief Explanation of the Hadith

The Sharīʿah emphasized the fulfillment of the rights of others, and it gave particular attention to the rights of one’s family, which are many and varied. Among them are those related to travel, as reported by ʿĀʾishah — may Allah be pleased with her — that the Messenger of Allah — may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him — said: “When one of you completes his ḥajj, let him make his journey back to his family...”
Whether the journey is one of obedience, such as ḥajj or ʿumrah, or a permitted journey, one should hasten to return to his family and not prolong his stay after completing his affairs. For hastening to return carries great benefits: attending Jumuʿah and congregational prayers, regaining strength through rest for further worship, bringing joy to one’s family, and preserving their rights from neglect. Thus, it is weightier in reward and greater in merit than extending one’s absence with no need.
The ḥadīth indicates that the Sharīʿah establishes a balance between the rights of Allah and the rights of His servants. It prescribes greater reward for returning to one’s family after completing a journey, for in this lies the realization of the higher objectives of religion in both worship and family life. It also serves as a reminder that neglecting their rights entails a grave sin.

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