38/8. Chapter:
Sahih Muslim 2155c — The Prophet Disliked “It Is I”
It Is Disliked For The Person Who Is Seeking Permission To Say "Me" When Asked "Who Is It?"
The “It Is I” Hadith: Clear Identity When Seeking Permission
Sahih Muslim : 2155c
Sahih MuslimHadith Number 2155c
وَحَدَّثَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، حَدَّثَنَا النَّضْرُ بْنُ شُمَيْلٍ، وَأَبُو عَامِرٍ الْعَقَدِيُّ ح وَحَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ الْمُثَنَّى، حَدَّثَنِي وَهْبُ بْنُ جَرِيرٍ، ح وَحَدَّثَنِي عَبْدُ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنُ بِشْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا بَهْزٌ، كُلُّهُمْ عَنْ شُعْبَةَ، بِهَذَا الإِسْنَادِ . وَفِي حَدِيثِهِمْ كَأَنَّهُ كَرِهَ ذَلِكَ .
Shu'ba Narrated from:
This hadith has been transmitted on the authority of Shu'ba with a slight variation of wording and that is: The Prophet (ﷺ) uttered these words: It is I. it is I." in the manner as if he disapproved of this.
Reference : Sahih Muslim 2155cIn-book reference : Book 38, Hadith 52USC-MSA web (English) reference : Book 25, Hadith 5365
Summary of Sahih Muslim Hadith 2155c
This narration adds an important detail to the hadith about saying “It is I.” It says that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) uttered the words “It is I, it is I” in a manner as if he disapproved of it. The main point is not about harshness, but about clarity. When a person seeks permission and is asked, “Who is it?” the reply should actually identify the person. Saying only “I” leaves the listener without useful information. This hadith is a direct lesson in speaking clearly at the door. It connects to the wider etiquette of seeking permission in Islam, but the text itself focuses on one small phrase and why it was not liked. A visitor should make things easy for the host by answering plainly.
What we learn from this hadith
- The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) showed dislike for a vague reply.
- A person should identify themselves clearly when asked.
- Good manners include giving helpful answers.
- The narration focuses on clear speech during permission.
