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A hadith and commentary.

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It is recorded in the Sahih that the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, suffered from famine during the Battle of Tabuk.

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They said to the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him:

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"If only you would permit us to slaughter our camels used for drawing water,"

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referring to their camels.

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Commentary:

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Imam al-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy on him, commented:

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"Their statement, 'If only you would permit us,'

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is among the most refined ways of addressing those of high status.

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Their manner of questioning,

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that is, their way of making a request,

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is expressed by saying:

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'If you were to do such and such,'

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'If you were to permit such and such,'

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'it would be better,'

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'or it would be correct,'

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and similar expressions.

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This is far more elegant than saying to a person of high status:

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'Do such and such,'

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using the imperative form."