THE SECRET OF
THE PROPHET’S SUCCESS

Numerous hadiths describe the character of the Prophet of Islam, as narrated by his Companions. Among them is a report from Aisha, recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari. Al-Bukhari includes this narration—with slight variations—in four different chapters: Aisha said: “Aisha said: Whenever the Prophet of Islam was presented with two options, he would adopt the easier one—as long as it was not sinful. But if it were sinful, he would avoid it completely.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 6126)

This hadith also appears in Sahih Muslim (Hadith No. 2327) and in al-Mu’jam al-Awsat by Tabarani (Hadith No. 2918). In those versions, the phrase is: “He would choose the easier of the two options” (ikhtara aysarahuma), indicating that the Prophet’s way was to opt for ease, not hardship.

Aisha’s account offers a profound insight into the method of prophethood. It reflects a foundational principle of Islam: starting with what is possible.

Here, “easy” and “difficult” do not simply refer to comfort or hardship. Rather, the Prophet chose the open path—one that avoided confrontation or resistance—unless confrontation was absolutely necessary for progress.

This approach gives immediate momentum to action. Every step leads forward. A person’s energy is then spent in constructive efforts rather than in destructive conflict.