Abu Dawud

1671. English Commentary: The chain of narration of this hadith is questionable. However, its meaning is clear: in comparison to Paradise, the world holds no value with Allah—not even equal to a speck or the wing of a mosquito. And Allah’s Face (wajh Allah) and His Name, in their greatness and majesty, are unique and unparalleled; therefore, it is not appropriate to use them as an intercessor for attaining something as insignificant as this world. Rather, one should ask for something great, such as Paradise, for His sake. The hadith that follows is authentic in comparison, and in it there is concession that a supplicant may ask something for Allah’s sake. In this hadith, (wajh Allah) refers to a specific attribute of Allah, by which is meant Allah’s Face itself, as befits His majesty. It is neither permissible to reinterpret it, nor to liken, compare, or negate it. (And Allah knows best.) Also see: the commentary of Shaykh Al-Albani rahimahullah on Mishkat al-Masabih, hadith 1944.