Negative Facial Expressions and the Sunna of Smiling

Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Question: Assalam ‘aleykum

I have a problem that I need to work on. Sometimes I make a mean face when I see someone I don’t like and then I quickly realize what I’m doing and stop. Do I get a sin for doing this?

Answer: Walaikum assalam,

I pray this finds you in the best of health and spirits.

Just as you’re not responsible for unintentional thoughts, you’re not responsible for unintentional facial expressions (even negative).

However, I would encourage you to practice the sunna of smiling: the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk) was constantly smiling and positive—even when full of concerns and dealing with distress.

The Companion, Jarir ibn Abd Allah (Allah be pleased with him) related that, “The Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him) never looked at me without a smile.” [Related by Muslim]

Many Companions mention that they never saw anyone who smiled more than the Beloved Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him & his folk). [Tirmidhi, from Abd Allah ibn Harith (Allah be pleased with him)]

This smiling of the Messenger of Allah (peace & blessings be upon him) was for the sake of Allah–arising from his complete contentment (rida), gratitude (shukr) with Allah.

Please see: Prophetic Guidance: On Forbearance, Patience and Kindness

And Allah is the giver of success and facilitation.

wassalam,
Faraz Rabbani