Compiled by: Dr. Rida Abdullah Pasha (Hafizahullah)
Question:
Does Satan reside in valleys and ravines?
Answer:
It is narrated from Abu Tha’labah Al-Khushani (رضي الله عنه) that when the companions (رضي الله عنهم) would set up camp during travel, they would spread out in valleys and ravines. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
ما بال تفرقكم فى هذه الشعاب والأودية؟ إنما ذلكم من الشيطان
“Why do you scatter in these ravines and valleys? Indeed, this is from Satan.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood, Hadith 2628)
After this, the companions never camped except by staying close to one another.
When people (the companions) traveled and rested at a location, they would scatter over paths and the uneven terrains of mountains, which would result in increased isolation. However, staying together and cooperating would protect them from harm and fear, and gathering in valleys and ravines would make them stronger and braver against Satan.
Etiquette of Traveling Through Valleys and Ascending Heights
When a person descends into a valley or lowland, he should say:
سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ
"Glory be to Allah."
And when ascending to a height, he should say:
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
"Allah is the Greatest."
Similarly, when riding an animal (or any form of transport), one should recite the following supplication:
سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَـٰذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ
"Glory be to the One who has subjected this (ride) for us, while we were not capable of it. And indeed, we shall return to our Lord."
Furthermore, one should also say:
سبحانك، إني ظلمت نفسي فاغفر لي، فإنه لا يغفر الذنوب إلا أنت
"Glory be to You! Indeed, I have wronged myself, so forgive me, for no one forgives sins except You."
Conclusion:
The Prophet ﷺ discouraged scattering in valleys and ravines because Satan finds an opportunity to instill fear and harm when people are isolated. Instead, staying together strengthens a person against Satan’s whispers and attacks. Moreover, following the etiquette of travel, as taught by the Prophet ﷺ, ensures safety and blessings in one's journey.
