Two Habits That Make People Like Satan

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA — Being neglectful in prayer and fond of swearing, whether truthfully or falsely, are the two habits Satan reportedly named when asked how to become like him. The story, quoted by Hadith scholar Maulana Muhammad Zakariyya Al-Kandahlawi in his book Fadhail Namaz, is a reminder of the importance of observing prayer and guarding one’s tongue.

The account says that, long ago, Satan could be seen by human beings. One person asked him, “Tell me, how can I become like you?”

Satan replied, “Until today, no one has asked me that. What do you mean?” The person answered, “It is what my heart desires.”

Satan said, “The way is to be neglectful in prayer and to swear as you please, whether truthfully or falsely.”

The person then replied, “By Allah, I promise that I will not be neglectful in prayer and will not swear oaths.”

Satan answered, “Truly, I have never spoken to anyone as clever as you. I promise that I will never again advise a human being.”

Prayer is an act of worship made obligatory by Allah SWT and His Messenger. It carries many virtues and significant benefits for those who perform it properly.