What is the ruling on hastening?

Some scholars of knowledge hold that hasty action—seeking something before its proper time—is a blameworthy trait, whereas acting swiftly at the appropriate moment to accomplish a task is a praiseworthy quality.

Haste can be either praiseworthy or blameworthy. It is praiseworthy when it pertains to doing good. Allah, the Exalted, says:

“Deliberation in all matters is better, except in matters concerning the Hereafter.”

“When something pertaining to the Hereafter presents itself, attend to it first; and when something pertaining to this world presents itself, take your time until you attain sound judgment in it.”

1. Praiseworthy haste occurs in the performance of good deeds, because sluggishness and delay in such matters provide an opportunity for Satan and the soul that commands evil to dissuade a person from proceeding.

“Whoever intends to do any good should hasten to do it, for any delay in it allows Satan a chance to intervene.”

2. Blameworthy haste involves making decisions without considering their consequences, and following desires and passions as soon as they cross one’s mind, without reflecting on their outcomes. In such cases, one confronts the adverse results and is overcome by regret.

This ingrained haste in human nature blinds one’s insight and deprives one of reason, driving a person to cling to this world and hold fast to it, because it offers immediate gratification, while leading them to neglect the demands of the Hereafter, since its rewards are deferred.

We recount a story that illustrates the speed of doing good and hastening to feed the poor before the soul changes or Satan whispers to one.