Chapter: The recommendation that a traveler hasten to return to his family once he has met his need

984 – Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Travel is a portion of torment; it deprives one of food, drink, and sleep. Therefore, when any of you has fulfilled the purpose of his journey, let him hasten back to his family.” Agreed upon. (Here, the word nahmatahu means “his objective.”)

Commentary
The author—may Allah have mercy on him—states in his book Riyad al-Salihin, in the section concerning travel: “Chapter on the recommendation that the traveler hasten to return to his family once he has fulfilled his need.” When someone travels he leaves his family behind, and they may need him for teaching, care, and other matters. Events may arise that require his presence. For this reason the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded, as cited by the author in the hadith, that once a person has achieved the aim of his journey he should return to his family. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also said in this hadith that “Travel is a portion of torment,” referring to both mental strain and physical hardship—especially