Compiled by: Dr. Rida Abdullah Pasha (Hafizahullah)
Question:
Can anything see Satan?
Answer:
Yes, a donkey (gadha) can see Satan.
It is narrated from Abu Hurairah (رضي الله عنه) that the Prophet ﷺ said:
إذا سمعتم صياح الديكة فاسألوا الله من فضله؛ فإنها رأت ملكا، وإذا سمعتم نهيق الحما فتعوذوا بالله من الشيطان فإنه رأى شيطانا
“When you hear the crowing of a rooster, ask Allah for His bounty, for it has seen an angel. And when you hear a donkey braying, seek refuge with Allah from Satan, for it has seen a devil.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3303; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2729)
Explanation:
This hadith clearly indicates that:✔ Roosters (murgh) can see angels and their crowing is due to their presence.
✔ Donkeys (gadha) can see Satan, and their braying is due to his sighting.
Therefore, when hearing a rooster crow, a Muslim should pray for Allah’s blessings. Conversely, upon hearing a donkey bray, one should seek refuge in Allah from Satan.
This hadith highlights the unseen realities that animals perceive beyond human sight, and it encourages believers to remember Allah in such moments for protection and blessings.
