. Hadhrat Isa bin Atiyya reports that the day after the Sahabah .~

had pledged their allegiance to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, he stood up to deliver a lecture. He said, "0 people! I am cancelling your decision (to appoint me as Khalifah) for I am not the best of you. You should therefore pledge your allegiance to the person who is best amongst you." The Sahabah ~~ stood up and replied, "0 Khalifah of Rasulullaah ~! We swear by Allaah that you are the best amongst us." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ then said, "0 people! There are people who entered into Islaam willingly and those who entered unwillingly.

However, they are now all in Allaah's protection and His neighbours. Therefore, if it is possible that Allaah does hot find you guilty of wronging anyone in His protection, then make sure that you do so. I also have a Shaytaan with me so when you see me angry, stay away from me so that I may not harm even your hair or your skin. 0 people! Keep watch over the income of your slaves because flesh nourished with Haraam cannot enter Jannah. Hear this well! Inspect me with your eyes and assist me when I do good.

However should I deviate, then do correct me. Obey me as long as I obey Allaah and disobey me if I disobey Allaah." (2) The Reply that Hadhrat Ali ~~~ gave to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ Emphasising that they would never Accept his Relinquishing the Khilaafah nor would they ever ask him to relinquish it Hadhrat Abul )ahhaaf narrates that for three days after people pledged their allegiance to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, he kept his door locked and on each day he would come out to say to the people, "0 people! I have cancelled the pledge of (1) Abu Nu'aym in his Fadhaa'ilusSahabah~, as quoted in KEnzul ummaal0/01.3 Pg.131). (2) Tabraani, as quoted in Kanzul ummaal0/o1.3 Pg.

Haythami 0/0\.5 Pg.184) has commented on the chain of narrators. THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~1J.1~ (Vol-2) allegiance that you have given me. You may therefore pledge your allegiance to whoever you please." Each time that he said this, Hadhrat Ali bin Abi Taalib ®lJ.,~ responded by saying, "Neither will we accept your relinquishing the Khilaafah nor will we ever ask you to relinquish it. When Rasulullaah ~~ had placed you ahead; who can ever pull you back?" (1) Hadhrat Zaid bin Ali narrated from his seniors that on three occasions, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ announced from the pulpit, "IS there anyone who is displeased (with me being the Khalifah) so that I may relinquish the post?" Each time it was Hadhrat Ali bin Abi Taalib ~)J.1~ who replied, "Neither will we accept your relinquishing the Khilaafah nor will we ever ask you to relinquish it. When Rasulullaah ~~ had placed you ahead, who can ever pull you back?" (2) Accepting Leadership for the Welfare of Deen What Happened between Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~,~~ and Hadhrat Ibn Abu Raafi ~~~ Hadhrat Raafi ibn Abu Raafi ~~ narrated, "After the people had appointed Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~)1~ as Khalifah, I said (to myself), 'This is the very man who told me never to assume leadership over even two persons (contrary to his own advice, he has now become the leader of all the Muslims).' I then left (home) and rode to Madinah. I then confronted Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ and said, '0 Abu BakrT Do you recognise me?' 'I certainly do,' he replied.

I asked further, 'Do you remember something that you once told me that I should not assume leadership over even two persons? However, you have assumed leadership over the entire Ummah.' He replied, 'When Rasulullaah ~ left this world, the people were still new in Islaam. Although I disliked it, I then assumed the post because I feared that (without leadership) they would revert to kufr and dispute with each other. In addition to this, my companions also kept insisting.' Abu Bakr ~)[email protected]§ then continued giving me his reasons until my heart was content (that he assumed the post solely for the welfare of the Deen)." (3) Being Grieved Mter Acceding to the Post of Khilaafah Hadhrat Abu Bakr~,~~ says to Hadhrat Umar ~~~, "It was you who forced me to assume this post" A man from the family of Rabee'ah says that news reached him that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ .sat at home in grief after he was appointed as Khalifah. When Hadhrat Umar ~)1~ came to the house, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~)J.1~ scolded him saying, "It was you who forced me to assume this post." When Hadhrat Abu Bcikr (1) Ushaari, as quoted in KanzuJ UmmaaJ 0/0\.3 Pg.141). (2) Ibn Najjaar, as quoted in KanzuJ UmmaaJ0/ol.3 Pg.140).

(3) Ibn Raahway, Adani, Baghawi and Ibn Khuzaymah, as quoted in KanzuJ UmmaaJ 0/OU Pg.125). TIlE LIVES OF TIlE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) ~~ complained to Hadhrat Umar ®1J.1~ that he found passing judgement a worrisome task, Hadhrat Umar ~~ said, "Don't you know that Rasulullaah ~ said, 'When a leader applies himself (and passes a ruling,) he will receive twice the reward if he is correct. On the other hand, if he errs (in his ruling) after applying himself, he will still receive a single reward.'" This statement seemed to ease matters for Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~. (1) Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~'s Last Words to Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~ Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~ narrates that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ said the following to him on his deathbed, "I have no regrets about anything that I have done except for three things that I wish I had never done. There are also three things I have never done that I wish I had. There are three other things that I wished I had enquired from Rasulullaah ~." Amongst the things that this narration contains is that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ said, "I wish that on the day that we were (selecting the Khalifah) in the orchard of Banu Saa'idah, I had forced the post on to one of two persons, either Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah or Umar.

One of them would then have been the Ameer whIle I could have served as his m~nister." Another thing mentioned in the narration is that he said, "I wish that at the time I had dispatched Khaalid bin waleed to Shaam, [ had also dispatched Umar to Iraq. In that way, I would have spread my right and left arms out in the path of Allaah. As for the three things that I wished I had enquired from Rasulullaah ~, I wish that I had asked him to identify those amongst whom Khilaafah would be so that none would contest it from those who deserve it. I also wish that I had asked Rasulullaah ~ whether the Ansaar would have any part in the Khilaafah." (2) A Leader Appointing his Successor HadhratAbu Bakr ~~ Consults with other Sahabah ~ on his deathbed Concerning his Successor Hadhrat Abu Salama bin Abdur Rahmaan and others narrate that when Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ grew extremely ill and was close to death, he called for Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf @.IJ.,~ and said, "Tell me about Umar bin Khattaab ~." Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan ~ replied, "You are asking me about someone whom you know better than me." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ said, "I still want you to tell me." HadhratAbdur Rahmaan ~~~ then said, "He is the best of all those whom you see fit as your successor." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ then summoned Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Affaan ~~~ and asked him, "Tell me about Umar bin Khattaab." "You know him the best from (I) Ibn Raahway, Khaythama in his Fadh'aailus Sahabah ii:El.~ and others, as quoted in Kanzui Ummaal[\/01.3 Pg.135). (2) Abu Ubayd, Uqayli, Tabraani, Ibn Asaakir, Sa'eed bin Mansoor and others, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal [\/01.3 Pg, 135). Haythami [\/0\.5 Pg.203) has commented on the chain of narrators.

THE LIVES OF THE SAH.!IBAH ~)j.1~ (Vol-2) all of us," responded Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~. "Despite this, 0 Abu Abdullaah." Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ then said, "I swear by Allaah that as far as I know, his inner self is even better than his (exemplary) outer appearance and there is none like him amongst us," Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ commented, "May Allaal1 shower His mercy on you. By Allaah! Should I leave him (as my successor). I would not be doing you any wrong." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ then also consulted with Hadhrat Sa'eed bin Zaid Abu A'war ~~, Hadhrat Usayd bin Hudhayr ~~ and several other Sahabah ~ from amongst the Muhaajireen and the Ansaar. Hadhrat Usayd ~~~ had the following to say, "By Allaahl I rate him the best after you.

He is pleased with that which pleases Allaah and angry with that which angers Allaah .. His inner self is even better than his (excellent) outer appearance and there is none as capable for the post of Khilaafah as he is." When some other Sahabah ~~ heard that Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~ and Hadhrat Uthmaan ~ hadseenHadhratAbuBakr ~ privately, they went to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ and one of them said, 'What would you reply to your Rabb if He asked you about appointing Umar as your successor when you have already seen his harshness?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ asked someone to help him sit up and then said, "Do you wish to make me fear Allaah?! Ruined is the person who carries injustice as his provision to the Aakhirah! I would tell my Rabb that I have appointed the best of Your creation as my successor. Convey what I have told you to everyone else." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ then lay dOwn, called for Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Affaan ~~ and told him to write the following: The Letter of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ Detailing the Appointment of Hadhrat Umar ~~ as his Successor ,his Advice to him and to the Public "In the name of Allaah the Most Kind, the Most MerClrul. The foJ/owjng js the arrangement made by Abu Bakr Nn Abu Quhaaia dUring hls last moments jn the world, as he prepares to leave it and dudng the first moments of his life jn the Aakhirah as he prepares to enter it.

This is a pOl'nt where even Kuffaar accept Imaan, wrong-doers become convinced and liars speak the truth. I have appojnted Umar bin Khattaab as my successor over you. You should listen to him and obey his commands. (In doing this) I have not forfeited any good owing to Allaah, His Rasool~, His Deen, myself nor owjng to you people in any way. If he exercises justice, then this is exactly what I had expected from him. On the other hand, if he has changed, then every man is accountaDle (to Allaah) for the wrong he does.

I have only Intended good and have no knowledge of the unseen. (Allaah declares:) Shortly (after death) the oppressors (wrongdoers) will come to know to THE UVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) which place they will return (jahannam). Peace be to you aJJ together with the mercy of Allaah. According to the orders of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~ then sealed the letter. Some narrators state that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ had only dictated the beginning of the letter and had not yet made mention of Hadhrat Umar ~~ when he fell unconscious. Although he had not named anyone, Hadhrat uthmaan ~)j;~ wrote the words: "I have appointed Umar bin Khattaab as my successor over you." When Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~u;1@!iiii regained consciousness, he asked Hadhrat uthmaan ~~~ to read what he had written.

When Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ read the part about Hadhrat Umar ~~~, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~)J.f@!iiii exclaimed, "Allaahu Akbar! I see that you feared people would fall into dispute (concerning the KhUaafah) if my soul had left during my state of unconsciousness. May Allaah reward you with the most excellent rewards on behalf of Islaam and the people of Islaam. I swear by Allaah that you are also worthy of Khilaafah." In compliance with the orders of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, Hadhrat uthmaan ~)J.f@!iiii then went out with the sealed letter. With him was Hadhrat Umar !ID);.fc~ and Hadhrat Usayd bin Sa'eed Quradhi ~. Addressing the people, Hadhrat uthmaan ~\.1.~ said, "will you pledge your allegiance to the person mentioned in this letter?" All the people agreed.

One of them even said, "We know v:ho he is. He is Umar." Ibn Sa'd says that it was Hadhrat Ali ~~who said this. All the people confirmed their approval and pledged their allegiance (tc Hadhrat Umar ~~). Hadhrat Abu Bakr !ID\.1.~ then called Hadhrat Umar ~~ in private and gave him advice. When Hadhrat Umar ~u;1@!iiii had left, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ raised his hands and prayed, "0 Allaah! I have done this only for their welfare and because I feared anarchy.

You know best what I have done and I have truly applied my mind to the decision. I have appointed as their leader the one who is the best amongst them, who is the most capable and who has the greatest desire for their welfare. 0 Allaah! The death that You have decree(j for me has already arrived, so do succeed me amongst them because they are Your servants and their forelocks are in Your hands. Make their leader righteous for them pnd make him amongst the Khulafaa Raashideen who follow the way of the Nabi of mercy ~ and the way of the pious ones after him. Also make his subjects righteous for him." (1) Hadhrat Hasan narrates that when Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ fell ill and was certain that he would soon leave the world, he gathered the people and said, ''You can all see my condition. I am quite certain that I am soon to die.

Allaah has freed you from your obligation towards the allegiance you have pledged to me. Allaah has undone the hold I have over you and returned your self-determination to you. You may now appoint whoever you please as your leader. If you appoint (1) Ibn Sa'd (VoJ.3 Pg.199), as quoted in KanzuI Ummaai(Vo1.3 Pg.145). THE LIVES OF 'IHE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) someone during my lifetime, it will be more conducive to your unity after my death." The people then left Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ alone and left (to consult with each other) but were unable to reach any decision. They then returned to Hadhrat Abu Bakr e@~ and said, "0 Khalifah of Rasulullaah~!

You choose someone on our behalf." "You people may perhaps disagree with my decision," remarked Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~. When they assured him that they would not, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ reaffirmed their resolution by saying, "will you promise in Allaah's name that you would be happy with my decision?" "We certainly will," they confirmed. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ then said, "Then allow me some time' to see what is in the best interests of Allaah, His Deen and His servants." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ later sent for Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~ and said, "Recommend someone to me. By Allaah! In my opinion, you are certainly most worthy of the post yourself." When Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~ recommended Hadhrat Umar ~~, Hadhrat Abu Bakr .~~ instructed him to write the letter (of appointment). When Hadhrat uthmaan ~~~ reached the point where the name (of the successor) was to be written, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ passed out.

When he regained consciousness, he told Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ to write the name of Hadhrat Umar ~~~. (1) The Reply Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~.\1.1~ gave to Hadhrat Talha ~.\1.1~ Concerning the Appointment of Hadhrat Umar ~~ Hadhrat uthmaan bin Ubaydullaah bin Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ narrates that when Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~,IJ.1~ was about to pass away, he summoned Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Affaan ~~ and dictated his last testament to him. However, he passed out before he could name his successor. Hadhrat uthmaan ~~ then himself named Hadhrat Umar bin Khattaab ~~. When Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~1J.1~ regained consciousness, he asked Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ whether he had written anyone's name. Hadhrat uthmaan ~~ replied, "I feared that you would not regain consciousness and that the people would then fall into dispute. r therefore wrote the name of Umar bin Khattaab." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ said, "May Allaah shower His mercies on you.

Had you written your name instead, you are certainly worthy of the post." Hadhrat Talha bin Ubaydullaah ~ then entered and said, "I have been sent to represent those behind me. They are saying that knowing the harshness of Umar during your lifetime, how will he be after your death when you hand over our affairs to him? Allaah will certainly question you about this, so think well what reply you shall give." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ asked someone to help him sit up and then said, "Do you wish to make me fear Allaah?! Ruined is the person who employs guesswork in deciding (who should take charge of) your affairs! If my Rabb questions me, I shall say, 'I have appointed the best of Your creation as my (1) Ibn A'laakir and sayf. TIlE LIVES OF TIlE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) successor'.

Convey what I have told you (to all those who have sent yOU)." (1) The Narration of Ummul Mu'mineen Hadhrat Aa 1isha ~~ in this Regard Hadhrat Aa'isha ~~ narrates that when (her father) Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ was on his deathbed, he appointed Hadhrat Umar ~ as his successor. Hadhrat Ali ~~ and Hadhrat Talha ~~ then came to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ and asked him who he had appointed as his successor. When Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ informed them that he had appointed Hadhrat Umar ~\l1~, they said, ''What reply will you then give to your Rabb?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ replied, "Do you wish to make me fear Allaah? I know Allaah and Umar better then the two of you. I shall say to Allaah that I have appointed over them the best of His creation as my successor." (2) . The narration of Hadhrat Zaid bin Haarith ~).1.1~ Hadhrat zaid bin Haarith ~~ reports that when Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ was on his deathbed, he sent for Hadhrat Umar ~Ij.,~ to appoint him as his successor.

Some people commented, "You wish to appoint Umar as your successor when he is harsh and ill-tempered? When he becomes our leader, he will be even more harsh and ill-tempered. What reply will you give to your Rabb when you meet Him after appointing Umar as your successor over us?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ replied, "Do you wish to make me fear Allaah?! I shall say, '0 Allaahr I have appointed the best of Your creation as my successor over the people'." (3) Appointing a Consultative Assembly of Competent People to Decide who Should be the Khalifah The Assassination of Hadhrat Unlar ~~ and His Selecting Six Persons to Decide who Should be Khalifah Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ narrates that when Abu Lu'lu'ah attacked Hadhrat Umar ~, he stabbed him twice with his spear. Hadhrat Umar ~ then thought that he had perhaps wronged the people in a manner that he was unaware of. He therefore sent for Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®~, whom he was very fond of.

Hadhrat Umar ~~ always kept Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ in close confidence and would listen to what he had to say. Hadhrat Umar ~~ said to Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~, "I wish to know whether this attack was a conspiracy of the general public." When (I) La'alkalaa'i. (2). Ibn Sa'd (VoU Pg.192l, as quoted in Kanzui Ummaai (Vo1.3 Pg.146). Bayhaqi (Vol. S Pg.149) has also reported the narration from Hadhrat Aa'isha ~ while Ibn Jareer has reported it from Hadhrat Asmaa bint Umays ~.

(3) Ibn Abi Shaybah, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vo1.3 Pg.146). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2J Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~,~~ went out to investigate, he found that every group of people that he passed was weeping bitterly. He therefore returned to Hadhrat Umar ~~'W!% and reported, "0 Ameerul' Mu'mineen! I saw every group of people that I passed weeping as if they had lost their first child." "Who was responsible for the attack?" asked Hadhrat Umar ~,~. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~.~~ replied, "It was the fire-worshipper Abu Lu'lu'ah who was the slave of Mughiera bin Shu'ba." The signs of happiness were then visible on the face of Hadhrat Umar ~~ as he said, "All praises are due to Allaah Who has not made my assassin a reciter of 'Laa Ilaaha Ulallaah' who could debate with me. Remember that I had prevented you people from bringing any foreign non-Muslim slaves here but you did not obey my instruction.

Call my brothers here." When he was asked who his brothers were, Hadhrat Umar ~~ named Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~, Hadhrat Ali ~~, Hadhrat Talha ~~, Hadhrat Zubayr ~, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~ and Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~. When these Sahabah i®~~ were sent for, Hadhrat Umar ~,~~ rested his head in the lap of his son Hadhrat Abdullaah ~~, who informed him when the men had arrived. Hadhrat Umar ~ then said to them, "When I pondered deeply about the affairs of the Muslims, I found that you six men are the leaders of the people and the most influentiaL Leadership can only be amongst you and the affairs of the people will always be properly managed as long as you men remain straight. Should there arise any disputes, it would be amongst you first." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ related further, "When I heard my father mention disputes and division, I knew that this would soon take place even though he ~sed the words 'Should there arise'. This is because he seldom mentioned something that I did not see happen. He then started bleeding profusely and I noticed the six men enter into such urgent discussions that I feared they would already pledge their allegiance to one of them.

I then said, 'The Ameerul Mu'mineen is still alive! There can never be two Khalifahs staring at the faces of each otheL'" Hadhrat Umar ~~~ then asked them to help him up, which they did. He then said, "You men should discuss for three days, during which period Suhayb ~,~ should lead people in salaah. 'With whom should we consult?" the men asked. Hadhrat Umar ~~~ replied, ''You should consult with the Muhaajireen, the Ansaar and the commander of every army present here." Hadhrat Umar ~~ then asked for some milk to drink but when he drank it, the milk emerged from his two wounds. When this happened, Hadhrat Umar ~ realised that his. death was imminent.

He then said, "If I possessed the entire world, I would offer it as ransom to be saved from the terror of what is to come after death. However, with the grace of Allaah, I envisage only good." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~~ commented, "May Allaah reward you with the best of rewards. Did Rasulullaah ~ not pray that Allaah should strengthen the Deen and the Muslims through you when they were living in fear in Makkah? mE LWES OF mE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) It was a tremendous reinforcement when you accepted Islaam, because of which Islaam, Rasulullaah ~ and his Sahabah ~~~ could come out in the open. When you migrated to Madinah, your migration was a great victory and since those very early days you did not miss a single military expedition that Rasulullaah ~ fought against the Mushrikeen. RasululIaah ~ was pleased with you when he left' the world, after which you advised his successor according to the pattern shown by Rasulullaah~. Using those whoaccepted,you struck those who were averse until people entered into Islaamwillingly and unwillingly.

The Khalifah of Rasulullaah ~ was also happy with you when he left this world. You then assumed the role of Khalifah in the best manner that any person could do. Using you, Allaah has populated many cities, brought plenty of wealth (to the Muslims) and destroyed many enemies. In addition to this, Allaah has also used you to bring abundance into every home in terms of Deen and in terms of their sustenance .. Allaah has now brought your life to an end with the great status of martyrdom. How fortunate are you not?" Hadhrat Umar ~ then said, "By Allaahr The one whom you manage to deceive is truly deceived. 0 Abdullaah1 Will you testity on my behalf in front of Allaah on the Day of Qiyaamah?" "I certainly would," Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas !@.~ assured him.

Hadhrat Umar !@~ then praised Allaah (for having the cousin of Rasulullaah ~ as a witness in his favour) and .asked his son Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar !@.~ to place his cheek on the ground. When Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ placed his father's cheek on his lap instead, Hadhrat Umar !@~ insisted that his cheek be placed directly on the ground. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ then left his father's beard and cheek, allowing it to touch the ground. Addressing himself, Hadhrat Umar !@~ said, "0 UmarY Your mother and you would be destroyed if Allaah does not forgive you." He then passed away. May Allaah shower His mercy on him. After Hadhrat Umar !@~~ had passed away, the six appointed Sahabah ~~ summoned Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~.

However, he responded by saying that he would not come to them until they carried out the instruction of Hadhrat Umar ~ to consult with the Muhaajireen, the Ansaar and the commanders of the armies present in Madinah. When someone mentioned to Hadhrat Hasan Basri ~CWI~ the actions of Hadhrat Umar ~~ before his demise and his fear of Allaah, ~adhrat Hasan ~WlI~ commented, "Such is a true Mu'min. He carries out good deeds in the proper manner together with having fear for Allaah. On the other hand, the Munaafiq combines evil deeds with the false hope of being forgiven. I swear by Allaah that in times past and present I have never seen a servant of Allaah who excels in doing good deeds without excelling in his fear of Allaah. In times past and present I have also not seen any person excel in evil deeds without excelling in the false hope of being forgiven." (1) (1) Tabraani, narrating from reliable sources as conformed by Haythalll' (Vo\.9 Pg.76). mE LIvEs OF HIE SAHilBAH ~)J.1~ (Vol-2J The Narration of Ibn SaId Concerning the Debts of Hadhrat Umar ~,~~, his Burial with his Two Companions and his Appointment of Six Men to Decide which of the Them Would be the Khalifah In his narration concerning the assassination of Hadhrat Umar ~~, Hadhrat AInr bin Maymoon also says that Hadhrat Umar ~ told his son Hadhrat Abdullaah ®~ to check on his debts and add them up.

When Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ®.~ informed his father that the debts amounted to eighty six thousand. Hadhrat Umar ®~ instructed, "If the amount can be paid from the wealth of Umar's family, then pay it from there on my behalf. If this is not possible, ask (my tribe) the Banu Adi bin Ka'b (to settle the debt). If their wealth is also not sufficient, then ask the Quraysh. However, you should not ask from anyone else besides them and (do your best to) settle my debts. I also want you to go to the mother of the Mu'mineen Hadhrat Aa'isha ~~.

Greet her with Salaam and say to her that Umar bin Khattaab requests permission to be buried. beside his two companions (Rasulullaah ~ and Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~). However, do not say that the Ameerul Mu'mineen requests for permission because I am not the Ameerul Mu'mineen any more." When Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ®11~ went to Hadhrat Aa'isha ~, he found her sitting and weeping. He greeted her and then addressed her saying, "Umar bin Khattaab requests permission to be buried beside his two companions." Hadhrat Aa'isha ~ replied, "By Allaahr Although I had originally reserved the place for myself, I shall today give him preference over myself." When Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ came back to his father, Hadhrat Umar ®.~~ asked, ''What news do you have?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ®11~ informed Hadhrat Umar ®11~ that Hadhrat Aa'isha ~ had granted the permission. Hadhrat Umar ®l1~ then commented, "There was nothing more important to me than this. When I die, I want you to carry me on my bed and (when you arrive at the door of Hadhrat Aa'isha ~) then seek permission saying, 'Umar bin Khattaab requests permission to enter.' If she permits my entry, then take me in, otherwise take me to the graveyard of all the Muslims." When the body of Hadhrat Umar ~tl.7~ was taken (for burial), it appeared as if the Muslims had never before experienced any tragedy. (Upon arrival at the door of Hadhrat Aa'isha ~) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ®~~ greeted her with Salaam and said, "Umar bin Khattaab requests permission to enter." Hadhrat Aa'isha ~ granted permission and Hadhrat Umar ®l1~ was honoured to be buried alongside Rasulullaah ~ and Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~.

May Allaah shower His mercies on him. When Hadhrat Umar ®):;,5 was about to pass away, the people told him to appoint.a successor. He said, "I find none more worthy of leadership than the six men with whom Rasulullaah ~ was pleased when he passed away. Whoever THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH l@I~~ (Vol-2) they appoint shall be the Khalifah after me." Hadhrat Umar ~~ then named Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~, Hadhrat Ali ~)J.,~, Hadhrat Talha ~)J.,~, Hadhrat zubayr ~~~, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~ and Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~~~. He then added, "If Sa'd becomes the Khalifah, that will be fine. Otherwise, whichever of them becomes the Khalifah should request his assistance because I had not dismissed him (from his post as governor of Kufa) because of any inability or treachery on his part." Hadhrat Umar ~~ then detailed the role of his son Abdullaah ~~ as someone with whom the six could consult, emphasising that he should not be allowed to assume the post as Khalifah.

When the six Sahabah l®~ got together (after the demise of Hadhrat Umar ~)J.,~), Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~~ proposed that three of them forfeit their entitlement to the other three. Hadhrat zubayr ~)J.,~ then handed his over to Hadhrat Ali ~~~, Hadhrat Talha .~~ gave his to Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~ and Hadhrat Sa'd ~~ gave his to Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~)J.,~. The three remaining nominees then consulted with each other when the decision was left to them entirely. Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~ then said to the other two (Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ and Hadhrat Ali ~~~), "which of you wishes to absolve himself (from making the decision) and hand over the decision to me. I pledge to Allaah that I shall not be negligent in selecting the one from amongst you who is the best and shall be best for the people." When the two Sahabah l®~ agreed, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~~ spoke to Hadhrat Ali ~)J.,~ in confidence saying, "You are the close relative of Rasulullaah ~~ and amongst the earliest Muslims. I ask you to tell me in Allaah's name whether you would exercise justice if you were appointed Khalifah and that if I appointed Uthmaan as Khalifah, you would listen to him and obey him." when Hadhrat Ali ~)J.,~ attested that he would do so, Hadhrat AbdUL Rahmaan bin Auf ~)J.,~ then said the same thing in confidence to Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~.

When Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ agreed to do as asked, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf~~ asked Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~ to stretch out his hand. When Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ did so, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~~~ pledged his allegiance to Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ and was followed by HadhratAli ~~ and the general public. (1) The Narration of Ibn Abi Shaybah and Ibn Sa'd in this Regard Hadhrat Arm bin Maymoon reports that when Hadhrat Umar ~ll.1~ was on his death bed, he called for Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~, Hadhrat Ali ~~~, Hadhrat Talha ~~, Hadhrat Zubayr ~~~, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~)J.,~ and Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~~~. (When they came) Hadhrat Umar ~~ then addressed only Hadhrat Ali ~~ and Hadhrat Uthmaan ~)J.,~. He said to Hadhrat Ali ~~~, "0 Ali! These people recognise your kinship to (1) Ibn Sa'd (Vo1.3 Pg.344), Abu ubayd, Ibn Abi Shayba, Bukhari and Nasa'ee.

TIlE LIVES OF TIlE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) Rasulullaah ~ (that you are his cousin and son-in-law) and the tremendous knowledge and insight that Allaah has granted you (because of which they may select you to be the Khalifah). If you are nominated to be the Khalifah, you should fear Allaah and never lift that tribe (your tribe the Banu Haashim) on to the necks of people." Hadhrat Vmar ~.Uo1~ then addressed Hadhrat uthmaan ~~ saying, "0 uthmaanl These people know well that you were the son-in-law of Rasulullaah ~ and they recognise your age and your respectability. If you are nominated to be the Khalifah, you should fear Allaah and never lift that tribe (your tribe) on to the necks of people." Hadhrat Vmar ~~ then asked the people to summon Hadhrat Suhayb ~)J.,~. (When he arrived) Hadhrat Vmar ~ said to him, "Lead the people in salaah for three days during which period this group will gather in a room (to discuss which of them should be the KhaIifah). When they agree on one person, any person who opposes them should be executed." (1) Hadhrat Abu Ja'far reports that Hadhrat Vmar ~)J.,~ said the following to the (six) members of the consultative assembly: "Consult with each other about who should be appointed as Khalifah. If your votes are tied at two, two and two (each pair nominating a different person of three candidates), then repeat the consultation.

However, if the votes are four to two, accept the opinion of the majority." (2) A narration from Hadhrat Aslam quotes that Hadhrat Vmar ~)J.,~ said, "If the opinions are tied at three to three, adopt the side of Abdur Rahmaan. Thereafter, you should listen to and obey (the new Khalifah)." Another narration from Hadhrat Anas ~~ states that a short while before Hadhrat Vmar ~ passed away, he sent for Hadhrat Abu Talha ~ and said, "0 Abu Talha! Be the fifth of a group of your people from theAnsaar to be with the consultative assembly. I suppose that they will gather in a house belonging to one of them, so I want you and your group to stand at the door of that house. You should not allow anyone to enter with them and you should not allow the third day to pass by without them having appointed one of them (as Khalifah)." Hadhrat Vmar ~)J.,~ then prayed, "0 Allaah! You are my Successor over them." (3) Who is Most Worthy of Assuming the Office of Khilaafah The Lecture that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ Gave in this Regard Hadhrat Aasim narrates that during his final illness, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ had the people gathered together and then had some men carry him to the pulpit.

This was the last lecture that he ever delivered. After praiSing Allaah, he said: (1) Ibn Abi Shaybah and Ibn Sa'd. (2) Ibn Sa'd. (3) Kanzul UmmaaJ(Vo1.3 Pg.156,157) mE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) "0 people! Beware of thiS world and never place your trust in it for it is extremely deceptive. Rather give preference to the Aakhirah over the world and inculcate great love for it.

The love for anyone of the two develops hatred for the other. It is by this matter of KhiJaatah that aJI our affairs are governed and its end wjJJ be set right only by those factors that set right its initiation. Therefore, the only person worthyof assuming this office is the one who is most powerful amongst you, who can exercise the greatest control over his desires" who is most strict when the occasion demands austerity and most compassionate when the occasion demands leniency. He should be one who is most willing to act on the opinions of people with knowledge and insight and does not engross himself in futilities. He does not grieve over matters that do not present themselves to him, is not shy to learn and is not alarmed by emergencies. He is meticulous about managing finances and wjJJ neither embezzle any funds nor fail in his duty towards it in a fit of anger or enmity.

He is prepared for things to come and his preparation consists of fear for Allaah and obedience to Him, Such a person is none other than Umar bin Khattaab. " After saying this, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ descended from the pulpit. (1) The Q]Ialities of a Khalifah as Described by H dhr t U ~ltl""J1·\"·# a a mar~,I.:IoJ~ Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®.~ says, "I served Umar ®~ in a manner that no other member of his family served him. I was also very informal with him in a manner that no member of his household was. He would sit with me and show me a lot of respect. We were sitting alone in his house one day when he heaved such a sigh that made me think he was about to die.

I asked, 'Some grave matter of concern, 0 Ameerul Mu'mineen?' He replied, 'Some grave concern indeed.' 'What is it?' I asked. He then asked me to corne closer to him. When I did so, he said, 'I can find no one worthy of this post of Khilaafah.' I then named certain individuals and asked him what he thought of them. These happened to be the six men whom he chose as the consultative assembly. Umar ®~ said something about each one of these men and then said, 'No person is suitable for the post of Khilaafah except someone who is strong without being harsh, who is lenient without being weak, who is generous without being extravagant and who is cautious about monetary affairs without being miserly.",(2) Another narration also from Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®.~ states, "I was sitting with Umar ~~ one day when he heaved such a sigh that I thought his ribs would crack. I said to him, '0 Ameerul Mu'mineen!

It can only be a grave worry that would cause you to sigh like that.' He agreed by saying, 'It is indeed something grave. I do not know to whom I should hand the post of Khilaafah over to.' He then turned to me and said, 'perhaps you deem your companion (Ali (1) Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (yoU Pg.147) (2) Ibn Sa'd. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol~2) ~)J.,~) to be worthy of the post?' 'I certainly do,' I replied, 'he was one of the first Muslims and he possesses great qualities.' Umar ~~ commented, 'He is indeed as you say, but he is a man who enjoys jest and humour.'" The narration then continues up to the point where Hadhrat Umar ~~ says, "No person is suitable for the post of Khilaafah except someone who is strong without being harsh, who is lenient without being weak, who is generous without being extravagant and who is cautious about monetary affairs without being miserly." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~.~ used to say, "These traits were combined in no other person besides Umar ~~." (1) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~li.1~ mentioned, "I used to serve Umar ~~ and always stood in awe of him. I went to his house one day as he sat there all alone. He then heaved such a heavy sigh that I thought he was about to die. He then raised his head to the sky and again breathed a heavy sigh.

I then plucked up the courage and said to myself,' By Allaah! I am certainly going to ask him about this.' I then said to him, 'By Allaah! It must have been a grave concern that has made you sigh like this 0 Ameerul Mu'mineen. 'He replied, 'By Allaah! The concern is grave indeed! I cannot find anyone suitable to fill this post of Khilaafah. perhaps you feel that your companion (Ali ~,~) is worthy of the post.' I responded by saying, '0 Ameerul Mu'mineen!

Is he not worthy of the post since he had made Hijrah? Is he not worthy of the post because of his close companionship with Rasulullaah ~? Is he not worthy of the post because of his family ties with Rasulullaah ~?' Umar ~,ll.~ commented, 'He is indeed as you say, but he is a man who enjoys jest and humour.'" The narration then continues up to the point where Hadhrat Umar ~,~ says, "No person can bear the post of Khilaafah except someone who is strong without being harsh, who is lenient without being weak, who is generous without being extravagant and who is cautious about monetary affairs without being miserly." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ also adds that Hadhrat Umar ~~ said, "None can shoulder this post of Khilaafah besides a person who does not compromise on principles, who does not behave ostentatiously (in a boastful manner) and who does not give in to vain desires. None can shoulder this responsibility from Allaah besides someone who never utters any word that forces him to contradict his resolve and who judges with fairness even' against his own people." (2) Hadhrat Umar ~~ once said, "It is improper for anyone to assume his post of Khilaafah except someone who possesses four qualities. Someone who is lenient without being weak, who is strong without being harsh, who is cautious about monetary affairs without being miserly and who is generous without be~ng extravagant. If anyone of these qualities is missing, the other three will become useless." (3) Another narration quotes Hadhrat Umar ~~ as saying, "None can shoulder this responsibility from Allaah besides a person who does not (1) Abu Ubayd in his Gharaa'iband Khateeb in Ruwaatul Maalik.

(2) Ibn Asaakir as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal{Vol.3 Pg.

(3) Abdur Razzaaq. THE LWES OF THE SAHABAH ~l1~ (Vol-2) compromise on principles, who does not behave ostentatiously who does not give in to vain desires, who is ::.:::It concerned with developing his standing and who never conceals the truth even when angry." (1) Hadhrat Sufyaan bin Abi Awjaa narrates that Hadhrat Umar bin Khatt,aab ®)1~ once said, "By AllaahI I know not whether I am a Khalifah or a king. If I am a king, then the matter is serious indeed." Someone from the audience said, "0 Ameerul Mu'mineen1 There is a distinct difference between the two. A Khalifah only takes something rightfully and then uses it rightfully. By the grace of Allaah, you are exactly like this. On the other hand, a king oppresses people by usurping things from some and then giving them to others. n Hadhrat Umar ~remained silent.

(2) Hadhrat Salmaan ~ reports that Hadhrat Umar ~ once asked them, "Am I a king or a Khalifah?" Hadhrat Salmaan ~ replied, "If you had ever (unlawfully) taken even a Dirham or less from the property of the Muslims and then used it illegally, you would be a king and not a Khalifah." Hadhrat Umar ®~~ then began to weep bitterly. (3) A man from the Banu Asad tribe narrates that he was present when Hadhrat Umar ~~ once addressed his companions. Amongst them was Hadhrat Talha ~~, Hadhrat Salmaan ®~, Hadhrat 2ubayr ~~ and Hadhrat Ka'b ®.~. He said to them, "I want to ask you something. However, you should beware not to lie to me because you would then destroy me as well as yourselves. I ask you to tell me in the name of Allaah whether 1 am a Khalifah or a king." Hadhrat Talha ~ and Hadhrat Zubayr ®~ said, "You are asking us something that we have no knowledge of.

We are unable to distinguish a Khalifah from a king." Hadhrat Salmaan ~~ then testified with full conviction that Hadhrat Umar ®,~ was a Khalifah and not a king. Hadhrat Umar ~~ responded by saying, "You have a right to comment because you had been frequenting the company of Rasulullaah ~." Hadhrat Salmaan ®.u.1~ then qualified his statement by saying, "I say this because you exercise justice amongst your subjects, you distribute between them with fairness, you treat them with the compassion that a man treats his own family and you pass judgement according to the Book of Allaah." Hadhrat Ka'b ~ then said, "I was under the impreSSion that none in this gathering besides me could differentiate between a king and a Khalifah. However, it is evident that Allaah has filled Salmaan v.,:ith wisdom and knowledge." Hadhrat Ka'b ®~ then addressed Hadhrat Umar ~ saying, "I testify that you are definitely a Khalifah and not a king." Hadhrat Umar ~ then asked, "How is this?" Hadhrat Ka'b ®~ (who had been scholar of the previous scriptures) replied, "I have found mention of you in Allaah's scriptures." 'Was mention made of me by my name?" enquired Hadhrat Umar ®~~. "NO," replied Hadhrat Ka'b ®~~, "but I have found mention of you by your qualities. I (I) Abdur Razzaaq, Ibn Asaakir and others, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vol.3 Pg.165). (2) Ibn Sa'd (VoL~ Pg.221).

(3) Ibn Sa'd, as quoted in Muntakhab Kanzul Ummaal (Vol.4 Pg.383). THE liVES OF THE SAHABAlf ~u.1~ (Vol-2) have found (the following) 'Nubuwwah and then Khilaafah and mercy on the pattern of Nubuwwah. Thereafter again Khilaafah and mercy on the pattern of Nubuwwah, followed by kingship with a bit of oppression'." (1) Leniency and Firmness of a Khalifah Hadhrat 5a'eed bin Musayyib ~~ reports that when Hadhrat Umar ~ was appointed as Khalifah, he delivered a lecture to the people from the pulpit of Rasulullaah~. After praising Allaah, he said: "0 people! I know well the feelings of you people that I am too harsh and stern. However, I was like that because I had been with Rasulullaah ~ as his servant and attendant and Rasu.lullaah ~ was as Allaah describes him in the Qur'aan: "extremely forgiving and merciful towards the Mu'mineen".

I was therefore like a drawn sword for him unless he chose to sheath me or prevent me from doing something, in which case I would desist. Otherwise, I would be stern with people in place of the leniency that Rasulullaah ~ showed. This was my behaviour alongside Rasulullaah ~ until Allaah took him from this world in a condition that he was pleased with me. I thank Allaah tremendously for that extremely good fortune. I then adopted the same attitude with the Khalifah of Rasulullaah ~ Abu Bakr ~~. You people know well his respectability, his humility and his leniency.

I was also at his service like a sword in his defence, combining my sternness with his leniency. If he took the initiative in any matter before I could, I would restrain myself. Otherwise, I would forge ahead. This was my behaviour alongside him until Allaah took him from this world in a condition that he was pleased with me. I thank Allaah tremendously for that extremely good fortune. Now that the Khilaafah has been handed over to me, I know well that some of you would say, 'He was stern with us when someone else was the Khalifah, what will now happen once he is himself the Khalifah?' You people have no need to ask anyone about me because you know me and have had experiences with me.

You know as much about the practices of your Nabi ~ as I do. I have asked Rasulullaah ~ everything that I needed to ask and I now have no regrets about not asking him anything that I had wanted to ask. Now that I am Khalifah, you should understand well that the sternness you have been seeing in me shall be multiplied against an oppressor and a criminal. It will also be employed to take back from the strong ones what they had taken from the weak. However, despite all of this sternness, I shall still place my cheek on the ground for people who abstain from immoral behaviour and evil and who are obedient. If there ever arises any differences between myself and any of you concerning any matter of judgement, I shall not refuse to walk with him to (a third party) whom you choose, who will look into the matter causing the conflict.

So fear Allaah, 0 servants of Allaah and assist me against yourselves by restraining yourselves from carrying rumours and also assist me against myself by enjoining what is good and forbidding me from evil and presenting me with (I) Nu'aym bin Hammaad in his Fitan, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal0lo1.4 Pg.389). THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) good counsel in the task that Allaah has appointed me to." (1) Hadhrat Muhammad bin Zaid ®~ reports that Hadhrat Ali ~, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~, Hadhrat Zubayr ~, Hadhrat Talha ~~, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®!J.,~ and Hadhrat Sa'd ~ once got together. Because Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®~ was the most at ease with Hadhrat Umar ~~, the others said to him, "0 Abdur Rahmaanl Why don't you speak to the Ameerul Mu'mineen on behalf of allthe people and tell him that it often happens that a person in need approaches him for his need but then returns without having his need tended to because his fear for the Ameerul Mu'mineen prevents him from presenting his case." Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®~ then went to Hadhrat Umar ®,~ and addressed him saying, "0 Ameerul Mu'mineenl Do be more lenient towards the people because it often happens that a person in need approaches you for his need but then returns without having his need tended to because his fear for you prevents him from presenting his case." Hadhrat Umar ®,~ said, "0 Abdur Rahmaan! I want you to swear in the name of Allaah whether or not it was Ali, Uthmaan, Talha, Zubayrand Sa'd who asked you to speak to me." Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®!J.,~ replied, "I swear by Allaah that it was certainly them." Hadhrat Umar ~ then said, "0 Abdur Rahmaan! I swear by Allaah that I had been so lenient with the people that I began to fear (the wrath of) Allaah because of my leniency. Thereafter, I was so stern with the people that I began to fear (the wrath of) Allaahbecauseofmysternness.

VVhatcourse is there now available for me?" Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®~ stood up weeping and dragged along his shawl as he said, "oh dear! What will become of the people after you have gone! Oh dear! What will become of the people after you have goner (2) Hadhrat Sha'bi narrates that Hadhrat Umar ®!J.,~ once said, "I swear by Allaah that for the sake of Allaah my heart had become so soft that it was softer than butter and at times it had become so hard for Allaah's sake that it was harder than a stone." (3) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ narrates that when Hadhrat Umar ~ became the Khalifah, someone said to him, "Some people had made an effort to ensure that this post should be turned away from you." When Hadhrat Umar ®.~ asked the reason fro this, the person replied, "They felt that you were too harsh." To this, Hadhrat Umar ~ commented, "All praise be to Allaah Who has filled my heart with mercy for them arid filled their hearts with awe for me.,,(4) Detaining People by Whom Divisions will be Caused in the Ummah Hadhrat Sha'bi narrates that when Hadhrat Umar ~ passed away, certain (1) Haakim, Laalkalaa'j and others, as quoted in Kanzui Ummaai(Vol.3 Pg.147). (2) Ibn Sa'd (Vo1.3 Pg.206) and Ibn Asaakir. (3) Abu Nu'aym in his Hi/ya.

(4) Mutakhab Kanzui Ummaai(Vol.4 Pg.382). THE UVES OF THE SAHABAH ~u.,~ (Vol-2) members of the Quraysh had already become irritated by him. They were people whom Hadhrat Umar ~~~ had detained in Madinah (did not permit them to leave the city). However, Hadhrat Umar ~~ still continued showering favours on them. Hadhrat Umar ~~ used to say, "What I fear most for this Ummah is that you should disperse into the various cities (and neglect the seat of Khilaafah)." Besides the few individuals from the Muhaajireen whom Hadhrat Umar ~~~ had confined to Madinah, Hadhrat Umar ~,~ did not impose the restriction to other people of M.akkah. Whenever one of these Muhaajireen who had been confined to Madinah would seek permission to fight in a battle, H mE LIVES OF THE SAlIABAH ~lloi~ (Vol-2J Hadhrat Abu Bakr ®~~ voiced his opinion (to march), Rasulullaah ~ turned away from him.

Thereafter, when Hadhrat Umar ~~ voied his ()pinion, Rasulullaah ~ turned away from him as well. HadhratSa'd bin Ubaadah ~~ (fromtheAnsaar) then said, "Itisouropinion that Rasulullaah ~ wants ... " The complete narration has passed at the beginning of "The Chapter Concerning Jihaad"(l) . In his narration describing the Battle of Badr, Hadhrat Umar ~~ says that when Rasulullaah ~ consulted with Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, Hadhrat Umar ~ and Hadhrat Ali ~~ (about what to do with. the prisoners of war captured at Badr), Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! These people are our cousins, our relatives and our brothers. My opinion is that we take ransoms for them, which would assist us against the Kuffaar.

Perhaps Allaah would guide them and they would eventually become our allies." Rasulullaah then asked Hadhrat Umar ~ what his opinion was. He replied, "1 swear by Allaah that I do not share the opinion of Abu Bakr. I strongly feel that you should hand so-and-so (a relative of Hadhrat Umar ®~~) over to me for execution, that you hand Aqee! over to Ali for execution and that you hand over to Hamza his brother (Abbaas §l~) so that he could execute him. In this manner, Allaah would know that we have no inclination towards the Mushrikeen in our hearts because these men are their leaders and the most influential people they have." Hadhrat Umar ~~~ relates further, "Rasulullaah ~ opted for the opinion of Abu Bakr and chose not to accept what I proposed. He therefore took . ransom from the prisoners. The following day I found Rasululiaah and Abu Bakr weeping.

'0 Rasulullaah ~!' I asked, 'Do inform me what makes you and your companion weep like this so that I may also weep with you if I am able to. If I am unable to weep, I shall pretend to do so to sympathise with your weeping.'" Rasulullaah .~ replied by saying, "I am weeping because of the opinion that your companions presented to me to accept ransom from the prisoners. I had been shown their punishment from as close as that tree (referring to a tree nearby). Allaah has also revealed a verse of the Qur'aan stating: ;.L'J Q:1J, JP'.; c,j~; ~j~' ~ ~ J;. ~~I ~ c,~ bI ~ c,lf~) (w ~T JlAi>:ll) (~ y.; ;.L'J a~'J' ~; ',,; , '" 'It is not for a Nabi (not becoming of a Nabi) that he takes prisoners until he has thoroughly beaten (the enemy) in the land (However, since this was not yet achieved during the early days of Islaam after the Battle of Badr, it was not appropriate for the Muslims to release the enemy prisoners). You desire the things (wealth) of this world (for yourselves by accepting the ransom) while Allaap desires the Aakhirah (for you). Allaah is Mighty, the Wise (what He desires for you is (I) Under the heading "Rasulullaah ~ Encourages Striving in the path of AlIaah and Spending One's Wealth for this Cause" and the subheading "RasululIaah _ leaves for the.

Battle of Badr after Consulting with the Sahabah y". TIlE LIVES OF TIlE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) best) (1) (2) The Narration of Hadhrat Anas ~~~ About the Consultation Regarding the Prisoners of .Badr Hadhrat Anas ~u.:;~ narrates that when Rasulullaah ~ consulted with the Sahabah i®~ about what was to be done with the prisoners captured during the Battle of Badr, he said, "Allaah has now granted you control over them." Hadhrat Umar ®:~ then said, "Execute them all 0 Rasulullaah ~!" However, Rasulullaah ~ ignored his remark and said, "0 people! Allaah had now granted you control over them whereas they had been your brothers just yesterday." When Hadhrat Umar ~u.:;~ repeated his remark, Rasulullaah ~ again ignored it. When Rasulullaah ~ once again repeated what he had said, Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! I feel that We should forgive them and take ransoms from them." The worry on the face of Rasulullaah ~ then disappeared and he subsequently forgave them and took the ransom. A1laah then revealed the following verse of the Qur'aan: (i/\ ~T JLA;~I) (OJ ~ ~~P ~I~ ~~~ ~ ~ ~I ~ ~~ ~jJ) If it were not for an order that A1laah had already been preordained (that some of the prisoners were to become Muslims), a great punishment would have afflicted you on account of what (ransom) you took (in exchange for the freedom of the prisoners). {Surah Anfaal, verse 68}(3) The N~rration of Hadhrat Ibn Mas'ood ~~~ in this Regard Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood reports that after the Battle of Badr, Rasulullaah ~ said, "What is your opinion concerning these prisoners?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ responded by saying, "0 Rasulullaah ~T They are your people and your family.

Allow them to live and grant them respite. perhaps A1laah shall forgive them." Hadhrat Umar ~~ then said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! They exiled you and called you a liar. Bring them closer so that I may execute them all." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Rawaaha ~~ then spoke. He said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! Look fora valley that had plenty of firewood. Put them all there and then set it alight upon them." Rasulullaah ~ then entered his room without passing any (1) Surah Anfaal. verse 67.

The verses after this read as follows "If it were not for an order that Allaah had already been preordained (that some of the prisoners were to become Muslim,sl. a great punishment would have afflicted you on account of what (ransom) you took (in exchange for the freedom of the prisoners). So partake of (enjoy) the spoils (ransom) you have received (regarding it to be) lawful and pure (for yOU). Fear Allaah (and sincerely seek forgiveness from Him) ! Verily Allaah is Most Forgiving. Most Merciful (and will therefore forgive your shortcomings)." (2) Ahmad. Muslim, Abu Dawood.

Tirmidhi, Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Awaanah, Ibn Jareer. Ibn Mundhir. Ibn Abi Haatim. Ibn Hibbaan, Abu shaykh, Ibn Mardway. Abu Nu'aym and Bayhaqi. as quoted in KanzuJ UmmaaJ (Vo1.5 Pg.265). (3) Ahmad, as quoted in Nasbur Raya (Vo1.3 Pg.403).

Haythamj (Vo1.6 Pg.87) has commented on the chain of narrators. TIlE LNES OF TIlE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2J decision. In the meanwhile some people said that Rasulullaah ~~ would adopt the opinion of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~)1.1~. Others felt that he would accept the opinion of Hadhrat Umar ~J::i.7~, while another group felt that it would be the opinion of Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Rawaaha ~~ that would be accepted. When Rasulullaah .~ emerged, he said, "verily Allaah has softened the hearts of some men so much that they have become softer than milk. Allaah has also hardened the hearts of other men so much that their hearts have become harder than stones.

Your likeness, 0 Abu Bakr, is like that of Ibraheem ~ who prayed: _ (~' ~ 0,..1# ,..., ... ~ ,...;',,., .... G:. ' \oil ,tli ..... , .... '" , '",) (n ~I ~Iy.\) Q; ~JJ#.!.li}9 ~~ 0") . ~.u}9 ..iw;i ~ 'So whoever will follow me (by beJjeving in Towheed), then he is certainly from me (from among the adherents of my reJjgion). And whoever will disobey me, then (I pray that you give him the ability to obey me because) surely You are Most Forgiving, Most Mercifu1.' {Surah Ibraheem, verse 36} Your likeness, 0 Abu Bakr, is also like that of Isa ~~ who will pray: (01 ~IY.;JI ~ ~ij~.# Ol~ [~~~ ~ij~:w 01) "", '" '" r "'" "' .... (IIA ~T oJ.iWI) 'If You punish them (my followers), then verily they are Your slaves (and You are at liberty to treat them as You please), and if You forgive them, then s).uely You are the Mighty, the Wise (and Your reason for doing so is filled wjth wisdom).' {Surah Maa'idah, verse 118} Your likeness, 0 Umar, is like that of Nooh ~ who prayed: ('Ii ~i 0) (01 ,j~; J~I ~ ~j~I";; j:b ~ ~J) '0 my RabbI Do not leave even one of the Kaafiroon (alive) on earth.' {Surah Noah, verse 26} Your likeness, 0 Umar, is also like that of Moosa ~~ who prayed: "'t~~1 " I\"~I I~"" ~"I'~:~.J~' :1~ I\;;"~' \" , A 11"'''\ II;;' '-.• tl ('""") ~ .. y..uu J~";> ~~ .N ~Y'" ....r- ~-WI J ~ ~ ~ i.i-:- I.i..!J .... , ....

'" '" (M ~i • .J"'J}.l OJ.,....) (Q '0 our Rabb! Destroy their wealth (so that they cannot use jt for evil purposes) and harden their hearts so that they do not have Imaan until they witness a painful punishment (a time when having Imaan will be futile since it will be too late).' {Surah Yunus, verse 88} Because you people are poverty-stricken, no prisoner shall be freed without either ransom or execution." Narrating further, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ~)1.1~ says, "I then said, '0 Rasulullaah ~! Do exclude Sahl bin Baydaa from this because I have heard him accept Islaam.' Rasulullaah ~ then remained silent and there was not a day that I saw myself more fearful than that day when I thought that a rock from THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~)J.,~ (Vol-2) the sky would soon fall on me. Rasulullaah ~ then said, 'Sahl bin Baydaa is excluded.' It was after this incident that Allaah revealed the verses: o QiJI~; c,j~) 1. ~r~\ ~:4 J;..s:;:t II c,~ J ~~ c,tS-~) " ~ '" v -"" --.. "1';-:- -", '~:;""""" .:. "~"j "," THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) platform and are ravaging you from all sides.

By engaging in this treaty, I wish to dilute their strength somewhat." Hadhrat Sa'd bin Mu'aadh ~~~ then said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! These people and us had been ascribing partners to Allaah and worshipping idols. Neither did we worship Allaah nor did we recognise who He was. (During those times) These people had never entertained hopes of eating a single date from Madinah unless it was offered to them as a token of hospitality or they bought it. How can we now give them any portion of our wealth once Allaah has honoured us with Islaam, guided us to it and accorded us tremendous respect because of it. By Allaah!

We have no need for this treaty. By Allaah! All that we are willing to give them are the strokes of our swords until the time arrives when Allaah passes judgement between us and them." Rasulullaah ~ said, ''You know best what you want." Hadhrat Sa'd bin Mu'aadh ~~ then took hold of the script and erased whatever was written on it. He then said, "They may now do their best to try to harm US!" (1) The narration of Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~~~ concerning this consultation Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~~ narrates that Haarith once approached Rasulullaah ~ and said, "If you do not give us half the produce of Madinah, we shall fill her with 'cavalry and infantry." Rasulullaah ~ replied by saying, 'Wait until I consult with the Sa'ds (referring to Hadhrat Sa'd bin Mu'aadh ~~ and Hadhrat Sa'd bin Ubaadah ~:J.,~)." (When Rasulullaah ~ consulted with them,) They said, "By Allaah! Even during the Period of Ignorance we never gave in to such humiliation, why should we do so now when Allaah has blessed us with Islaam." Rasulullaah ~ then got back to Haarith and informed him accordirrgly. Haarith responded by scowling, "You have betrayed me, 0 Muhammad!" (2) Hadhtat Abu Hurayrah ~~ also reports that Haarith from the Banu Ghitfaan tribe once approached Rasu]ullaah ~ with the demand, "Give us half the produce of Madinah." Rasulullaah ~ replied, "Not until I have consulted with the Sa'ds." Rasulu~laah ~ then sent for Hadhrat Sa'd bin Mu'aadh~:J5~, Hadhrat Sa'd bin Ubaadah ~~, Sa'd bin Rabee ~, Sa'd bin Khaythama ~~~ and Sa'd bin Mas'ood ~~~.

Rasulullaah ~ then addressed them saying, "I know that the Arabs a;e attacking you from a united platform. However, Haarith has come with a request that they be given half the produce of Madinah (in exchange of making peace with you). If you wish, you may give him half of this year's crop and then see what you decide for the forthcoming years." They responded by saying, "If it is revelation from the heavens, then we are prepared to accept the command of Allaah and if it is your wish and what you desire, then we are prepared to support your wishes. However, if you are doing (1) Ibn Is'haaq, as quoted in Ai Bidaaya wan Nihaaya 0101.4 Pg.

(2) Bazzaar. THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) this out of compassion for us, then by Allaah, there was a time when they and us were on an equal footing. They were then unable to take a single date from us . unless it was bought or given as a token of hospitality." Rasulullaah ~ then said to them, "It is as you say (I am doing this out of compassion for you)." Rasulullaah ~ then addressed Haarith (and those with him) and said, ''You have heard what they have to say." Haarith (and the others) glowered, ''You have betrayed us, 0 Muhammad!" (I) Hadhrat Musaddad reports from Hadhrat Umar ~~ that he would also be present when Rasulullaah ~ would spend nights discussing the affairs of the Muslims with Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~. (2) Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~,~~ Consults with Men of knowledge Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ Consults with Men of Knowledge and Insight who Constituted the Consultative Assembly During his Period and the Period of Hadhrat Umar ~U5~ Hadhrat Qaasim narrates that whenever a matter arose and Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ needed to consult with men of knowledge and wisdom, he would summon certain men from the Muhaajireen and the Ansaar. They included Hadhrat Umar ~l~, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~U;~, Hadhrat Ali ~, Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®~~, Hadhrat Mu'aadh bin Jabal ~, Hadhrat Ubay bin Ka'b ~ and Hadhrat zaid bin Thaabit ~~. These men used to issue Fataawaa (rulings) during his period and people would go to them for rulings.

The period of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ passed like this, and when Hadhrat Umar®~ became the Khalifah afterwards, he also used to summon these men. When Hadhrat Umar ~ was the Khalifah, the task of issuing Fataawaa was entrusted to Hadhrat Uthmaan ~, Hadhrat Ubay ~~ and Hadhrat zaid ~~. (3) The Incident Between Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~U5~ and HadhratUmar ®~~ Concerning the Demarcation of Land for Certain Sahabah ~~~ Hadhrat ubaydah reports that Uyayna bin Hisn and Aqra bin Haabis once approached Hadhrat Abu Bakr ®,~~ saying, "0 successor of Rasulullaah ~! There is a barren piece of land in our area that bears no grass and is useless. If you see it fit, do make it over to us so that we may work on it and cultivate it." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ decided to make it over to them and had the title deed written in their favour. He appointed Hadhrat Umar ®,~~ as witness to the 0) Tabraani.

Haythami ryol.6 Pg.132) has commp-nted on the chain of narrators. (2) Kanzul Ummaal ryol.4 Pg.45). (3) Ibn Sa'd, as quoted in Kanzui UmmaalryoJ.3 Pg.134). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2J deed, but because Hadhrat Umar ~~ was not present there, the two men had to take the deed to him so that he may be witness to it. When Hadhrat Umar ~~~ heard what the deed contained, he took it from the two men, spat on it and thereby erased what was written on it. The two men were infuriated and addressed him with harsh words.

Hadhrat Umar ~~ said, "Rasulullaah ~ used to appease you (by granting you properties) at a time when Islaam was weak. Allaahhas now strengthened Islaam (and there is no need to appease you), so you may go and do whatever you can against me. May Allaah offer you no protection even if you ask for HI" The two men stormed back to Hadhrat Abu Bah ~ in a fury and said, "By Allaah1 We do not know whether the Khalifah is yourself or Umarl" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ replied,"In fact he could have been the Khalifah if he chose to." Hadhrat Umar ~~ then arrived in a rage and when he stood before Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~, he asked, "Tell me about this land that you handed over to these two men. Does it belong to you or is it the public property of the Muslims?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ replied, HIt is the public property of the Muslims." "Then why did you give it to these two men rather than anyone else from amongst the Muslims?" Hadhrat Umar ~~ demanded to know. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ replied, "I had consulted with these people around me and they indicated that I do so." Hadhrat Umar ~ said, "Although you consulted with those around you, did you obtain the opinion and consent of every Muslim?" (Because it is not possible to seek the opinion of every person in every matter,) Hadhrat Abu Bah ~~ (chose not to reply to Hadhrat Umar ~ and rather) said, "I did tell you that you are more capable of Khilaafah than I am,but you overpowered me (and forced me to assume the task instead)." (1) The Qpestion of the Kharaaj from Bahrain Hadhrat Atiyya bin Bilaal and Hadhrat Sahm bin Minjaab both narrate that Aqra and zabarqaan approached Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ and said, "Hand over to us the Kharaaj from Bahrain and we shall give you the guarantee that no one from our tribe will ever leave Islaam." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ acceded to the request and wrote a declaration to the effect. Amongst the witnesses appointed was Hadhrat Umar ~~.

Since the agreement was facilitated by Hadhrat Talha bin UbayduIlaah ®~"5, it was he who brought the written agreement to Hadhrat Umar ®~. When Hadhrat Umar ~~·looked at it, he refused to be a witness and exclaimed, "There is no need to honour (appease) people anyrnorer' He then erased the content and tore it up. Hadhrat Talha ~ became extremely angry and returned to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~. saying, "Are you the Ameer or Umar?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ replied, "He is the Ameer although it is me who has to be obeyed." Upon hearing this, Hadhrat Talha ~~ was silent (because while his remark was such that it would have led to'disunity, the (I) Ibn Abi Shayba, Bukhari in his Taareekh, ibn ASaakir, Bayhaqi and Va'qoob bin Sufyaan, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaaf (Vo1.2 Pg.189). The author of Isaaba (VoU Pg.55l and (VoU Pg.59) has commented on the chain of narrators, Abdur Razzaaq has also reported the narration, as-quoted in Kanzu/ ummaaf (Vo!.1 Pg.80). mE DVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) reply of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ was one that engendered unity). (1) Consultation with the Sahabah f,@.~~ in Battle Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Arm ~~ reports that Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ once wrote to Hadhrat Arm bin Al Aas ~ saying, "Rasulullaah ~ used to . consult in matters of war, so ensure that you do the same." (2) A narration of Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abi Awfa ~ has already passed discussing the consultation of Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~. with men of knowledge before engaging the Romans in battle. (3) Hadhrat Umar ~~~ Consults with Men of knowledge Hadhrat Umar ~~~ Informs his Consultative Assembly about his Proposal to the Daughter of Hadhrat Ali ~,~~ Hadhrat Abu ]a'far narrates that Hadhrat Umar §l~~ requested Hadhrat Ali §l~ for his daughter Ummu KUlthoom's hand in marriage.

Hadhrat Ali ~ said, "I had intended to marry all my daughters only to the sons of ]a'far." To this, Hadhrat Umar §l~ said, "0 Ali! Marry her to me because I swear by A1laah that there is no other person on earth who anticipates as much as I do by treating her well (this he explains later)." Hadhrat Ali ~ then agreed to let Hadhrat Umar §l~ marry his daughter. Hadhrat Umar §l~ then approached the gathering of Muhaajireen who always sat in the Masjid between the grave of Rasulullaah ~ and the pulpit. They included Hadhrat Ali §l~, Hadhrat Uthmaan §l~, Hadhrat zubayr §l~, Talha ~~ and Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~: Whenever any matter presented itself to him from far off places, Hadhrat Umar ~~ would always inform the members of this gathering and then seek their opinions about the matter. This time he came to them and said, "Congratulate me. on my new marriage!" They all congratulated him and then asked, "who did y6u marry, 0 Ameerul MU'mineen?" "The daughter of Ali bin Abi Taalib," he replied. He then started to explain, "Indeed Rasulullaah ~ said, 'Every connection and relation shall be severed on the day of Qiyaamah except my connections and my relations.' I had been a companion of Rasulullaah ~ and now I wish to become his relative as well." (4) (l) Sayf and Ibn Asaakir. as quoted in Muntakhab Kanzui Ummaaf (VolA Pg.390).

(2) Tabraani, n::mating from reliable sources, as confirmed by Haythami (Voi. S Pg.319). BAzzaar and Uqayli have also reported the narration authentically, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vol. 2 Pg.163). (3) This narration is found under the heading "Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ Ensures that Armies are Dispatched in the Path of Allaah. He Encourages the Muslims to March in Jihaad and Consults with the Sahabah ~ About Fighting the Romans" and the subheading "Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ Consults with the Senior Sahd/"J THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vo/-2) Hadbrat Umar ~~~ and Hadbrat Uthmaan ~~~ Consult with Hadbrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~,u.1~and the Good Comments that Hadbrat Umar ~~~ and Hadbrat SaId ~~ made about him Hadhrat Ataa bin Yasaar reports that Hadhrat Umar ®~~ and Hadhrat Uthmaan ®,~ used to call for Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®~ and consult with him along with those Sahabah ~ who participated in the Battle of Badr (the senior Sahabah ~). During the periods of Hadhrat Umar ~ and Hadhrat Uthmaan~, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®~ used to issue Fataawaa (rulings) and did so until he passed away.

Hadhrat Ya'qoob bin Zaid narrates that Hadhrat Umar bin Khattaab ~~ used to consult with Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ®~~ about every matter of importance and would say to him, "Dive into the matter, dear diver (because he was capable of reaching the essence of the problem at hand)." Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~ said, "I have not seen any person as quick-witted, as intelligent, as knowledgeable and as tolerant as AbduUaah bin Abbaas ~. I have seen Umar ~ summon him to solve intricate problems and say, 'An intricate problem has presented itself to you.' Umar ~ would then do only what Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ proposed even though he was surrounded by Muhaajireen and Ansaar who had participated in the Battle of Badr." (1) Hadhrat Ibn Shihaab reports that whenever an intricate problem presented itself before. Hadhrat Umar ®~, he would summon some young men to consult and choose to act according to the sharpness of their intellect. (2) Another narration states that Hadhrat Umar bin Khattaab ~ would engage in so much consultation that he would even consult women (when the need arose). In fact, there were several occasions when he liked the opinions that they expressed and acted on it. (3) A Remarkable Lecture of Hadbrat Umar ~,u.1~ Concerning Consultation Hadhrat Muhammad, Talha and Ziyaad aU report that Hadhrat Umar ~ once left Madinah and dismounted at an oasis called Siraar (3 miles from Madinah) where he instructed that the army comes to a halt.

The soldiers did not know whether he intended to camp there or proceed further. Whenever the Muslims intended to know something from Hadhrat Umar ~l~, they always sent either Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ or Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ®~~. In fact, during the period of Hadhrat Umar ~'s Khilaafah, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ Haakim has also reported the narration claiming that it is authentic, but Dhahabi has commented on the chain of narrators. (I) Ibn Sa'd. (2) Bayhaqi and Ibn Sam'aani. (3) Bayhaqi and Ibn Seereen, as quoted in Kanzui Llmmaai (Vo1.2 Pg.163).

THE UVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2J was known as "Radeet". According to the Arabs, a "Radeef' is a person who is regarded as the leader's second-in-command and the term is coined for the one whom the people popularly see as the leader's successor. However, whenever these two men were unable to extract from Hadhrat Umar ®~~ the information the people required, they would then send Hadhrat Abbaas ®~~. Hadhrat Uthmaan®.~ then asked Hadhrat Umar ®~~, "Has any intelligence reached you? What do you intend doing?" Hadhrat Umar ~~ then announced that the people should gather as they do for salaah and when they had assembled around him, he informed them of the latest intelligence. He then waitedfortheirresponse.

Majority of the people echoed that Hadhrat Umar ~ should march ahead with them in tow. Hadhrat Umar ®~ commended this opinion for he did not like to disregard their opinion. He chose to rather dissuade them in a kind manner. He therefore said, "Prepare yourselves and prepare others. I shall continue with you unless I receive an opinion that is more appropriate." Hadhrat Umar ®~ then sent for men of insight and the cream of Rasulullaah ~'s companions and the most prominent Arab leaders gathered together. Hadhrat Umar ®~ said to them, "I feel that I should proceed with the army, but I wish you to give me your opinion on the matter." The men gathered for discussion and unanimously agreed that another companion of Rasulullaah ~ should be sent (as commander of the army) while Hadhrat Umar ~ stayed behind (in Madinah) to dispatch reinforcements.

They felt that if victory is achieved, the result would be what ~veryone desired and if not, another commander and another army could always be sent. In this manner (they said), the Kuffaar would be further enraged, the Muslims would guard against making mistakes and Allaah's assistance would arrive according to His promise. Hadhrat Umar ~,~ then again announced that the people should gather ,as they do for salaah and they did. Hadhrat Umar ~ also sent for Hadhrat Ali ®~ whom he had appointed as his deputy in Madinah and for Hadhrat Talha ~ whom he had sent ahead with the scouting party. At the same time, he also sent for Hadhrat Zubayr ~ and Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~t whom he had appointed as commanders of the two flanks of the army. (When everyone was present,) Hadhrat Umar ~ then stood amongst the people and said: ''Verily Allaah has gathered the Muslims around Islaam, has created love between their hearts and made them brothers in Islaam.

The Muslims are therefore like a single body in their relationship with each other. No part is free from pain when another part is suffering. It is therefore incumbent on the Muslims that their matters be decided by mutual consultation between their men of insight (the consultative assembly). The masses need to foHow the one who is their leader and are also bound by the decision of the consultative assembly. The people will have to adopt the course that these men plan. In fact, even the Ameer is bound by the decision that the consultative assembly make. people are also mE LIVES OF mE SARABAH ~ (Vol-2J bound to follow the battle strategies that these men outline and approve of. 0 people1 I was also a man like the rest of you (marching in Jihaad) until the men of knowledge and insight amongst you stopped me from proceeding ahead.

I am now also of the opinion that I should rather stay behind (in Madinah) and send someone else (as commander of the army). I have already presented this matter to all whom I have sent ahead and all who have been left behind." Although Hadhrat Umar ~ has appointed Hadhrat Ali ~ as his deputy in Madinah and had made Hadhrat Talha ~ the commander of the scouting group that had already reached a place called Ahwas, he ensured that even they were present to make the decision. (1) Hadhrat Umar bin Abdul Azeez ~a.ut~n:arrates that when Hadhrat Umar ~\1.1~ was informed about the martyrdom of Hadhrat Abu Ubaydah bin Mas'ood and that the Persians had rallied around a common leader from the house of the Kisra, he summoned the Muhaajireen and the Ansaar and marched until they reached a place called Siraar. The rest of the narration is similar to the one mentioned above. (2) The Letter that Hadhrat Umar ®~~ wrote to Hadhrat Sa'd ®~ Hadhrat Muhammad bion Sallaam Baykindi narrates that even during the Period of Ignorance Hadhrat Amr bin Ma'diyakrib ~ had achieved many feats. He became a Muslim after arriving with a delegation to meet Rasulullaah ~.

Hadhrat Umar bin Khattaab ~ sent him to Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~ (who was commanding the Muslim army) in Qaadisiyyah, where he (his military genius) was being put to the test. Hadhrat Umar ~ wrote to Hadhrat Sa'd ~. saying, "I am reinforcing you with two thousand men. They are Amr bin Ma'diyakrib ~~ and Tulayha bin Khuwaylid (ASadi) ~~. Consult with them in military matters but do not appoint them to posts of command (because their daunting courage would place the lives of others at risk)." (3) Appointing an Ameer The First Commander Appointed in Islaam Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~ narrates, ''When Rasulullaah ~ arrived in Madinah, the ]uhayna tribe approached him with the request, 'Now that you have arrived in our midst, do make a treaty with us so that we may bring our people to you.' After Rasulullaah ~ had made the treaty with them, they accepted Islaam. Rasulullaah ~ then dispatched us during the month of Rajab with instructions to attack the Banu Kinaana tribe, who lived close to where the ]uhayna tribe lived. We were not even a hundred men when we attacked them, (I) Ibn Jareer.

(2) Ibn Jareer. (3) Tabraani. Haythami (Vo1.5 Pg.319) has commented on the chain of narrators. TIlE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) whereas they were greater in number. When we sought assistance from the Juhayna tribe, they refused to render any saying, 'Why are you fighting during a sacred month.' we told them that we were only fighting people who had exiled us from a sacred place (Makkah) during a sacred month(l)." ''We then asked each other what to do. While some of us felt that we should report the matter to Rasulullaah ~, others were of the opinion that we should remain where we were.

Me and a few others opted to rather attack a caravan of" the Quraysh. During those times, the practice was that whoever took anything as booty from the enemy, the possessions became his own property. So. while we proceeded to attack the caravan, our companions went back to Rasulullaah ~ and reported the incident to him. Rasulullaah ~'s face became red with anger and he stood up saying, 'You left me as a unIted group and return separated! It was this very disunity that destroyed the nations before YO),l. I shall now appoint as your commander a man who may not be the best of you but who is certainly the most enduring through hunger and thirst.' Rasulullaah ~ then appointed Abdullaah bin Jahash Asadi ~ as our commander. who was the first commander appointed in Islaam." (2) Appointing an Ameer over Ten Persons Hadhrat shihaab Ambari narrates.

"I was the first to set alight the gates of Tustar when Hadhrat Ash'ari ~)1~ was struck down by an arrow. When the city was conquered, Hadhrat Ash'ari ~~ appointed me as Ameer over ten members of my tribe." (3) Appointing an Ameer for a Journey Hadhrat Vmar ~ once said, "When there are three person travelling. they should appoint one of them as Ameer. This appointment has been commanded by Rasulullaah ~." (4) Who Qualifies to be an Anleer? Those who Know Most Qur'aan Qualify to be Ameer Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~ narrates that Rasulullaah ~ once dispatched an exceptionally large expedition. Rasulullaah ~ made each one of them recite whatever portion of the Qur'aan he knew. When Rasulullaah ~ came to a man who was one of the youngest and asked him what portion of the Qur'aan he knew, he named several Surahs that he knew including Surah Baqara.

"Do you (I) The Arabs considered the months of Dhul Qa'dah, Dhul Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab as sacred months in which fighting was forbidden. (2) Ahmad. Ibn Abi Shayba has also reported the narration, as quoted in Kanzu/ ummaa/ (Vol. 7 Pg.60), as did Baghawi. as quoted in Isaaba (Vo1.2 Pg.278). Bayhaqi has also reported the narration in his Dalaa'H with the following difference: They asked, 'Why are you fighting during a sacred month." We said to them, "In this sacred month we are only fighting people who had exiled us from a sacred place (Makkah)." This is reported in Ai Bidaaya wan Nihaaya (Vo1.3 Pg.248). Haythami (Vo1.6 Pg.66) has commented on the chain of narrators. (3) Ibn Abi Shayba, as quoted in lsaaba (Vo1.2 Pg.159).

(4) Bazzaar, Ibn Khuzayma, Daar Qutni and Haakinl, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaaf (Vol. 3 Pg.344). THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2J know Surah Baqara?" Ra:sulullaall ~ enquired. When the man replied in the affirmative, Rasulullaah ~ said, "Go ahead! You are now their Ameer." One of the prominent persons amongst them said, "The only thing that prevented me from learning Surah Baqara was the fear that I would be unable to recite it in Tahajjud salaah." Rasulullaah .~ said, "Learn the Qur'aan and recite it because the example of a person who learns the Qur'aan and recites it is like a bag full of musk, from which fragrance emanates and spreads in every direction. On the other hand, the example of a person who learns the Qur'aan and then sleeps with it in his heart is like a bag of musk, the mouth of which has been sealed." (1) The Narration of Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~~ about those Knowing the Most Qur'aan to be the M()st qualified for the Post of Ameer Hadhrat Vthmaan ~~ narrates that Rasulullaah ~ once dispatched an expedition towards Yemen and appointed as their Ameer someone who was the youngest amongst them. However, a few days had passed and they had not yet left.

Rasulullaah ~ met one of the men and addressing him by his name asked, "What is the matter? Why have you not yet left?" He replied, "0 Rasulullaah _r Our Ameer has a problem with his leg." Rasulullaah ~ then went to the man and seven times recited: "1~.'.~~-;': ~{:J~ JJL~'~IJJt/ JJ\ ." ~ rt:.r: I~ J~ .:jP ~ .J~ ~ , "", #'" "I commence in the name of Allaah, I seek refuge in Allaah, in the power of the. bad in all things (in it)" Thereafter, Rasulullaah ~ blew on him and he was cured. An elderly person (belonging to the expedition) said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! How can you appoint him as our Ameer when he is the youngest of us al1?" When Rasulullaah _ mentioned the man's knowledge of the Qur'aan, the elderly person said, "0 Rasulullaah ~! I would have certainly learnt the Qur'aan had I not feared that I would be complacent and not recite it in the Tahajjud salaah." Rasulullaah ~ then mentioned, "The example of the Qur'aan is like a bag that you fill with musk. Such is the example of the Qur'aan when the Qur'aan is in your heart and you recite it." (2) Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ Refuses to give Authority/ Leadership to the Veterans. of Badr and the Statement of Hadhrat Umar ~~ in this Regard Hadhrat Abu Bakr bin Muhammad Ansaari reports that it was once said to Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~, "0 successor of Rasulullaah ~I Why do you not give command to the veterans of Badr?" Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ replied, "I certainly acknowledge their high status, but (l do not give them command because) I do (I) Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah and Ibn Hibbaan, as quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb (Vo1.3 Pg.12).

(2) Tabraani. Haythami (Vol. 7 Pg.161) has commented on the chain of narrators. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) not like to taint them with this world." (1) Hadhrat Imraan bin Abdullaah reports that Hadhrat Ubay bin Ka'b ~~~ once asked Hadhrat Umar ~~, ''What is it that you do not give me command?" Hadhrat Umar ~~ replied, "I do not like to taint your Deen." (2) The letter of Hadhrat Umar ~~ Concerning the Appointment of Commanders and his description of an Ameer Hadhrat Haaritha bin Mudarrib narrates that Hadhrat umar ~~~ wrote the following letter to them: I have sent Ammaar bin Yaasir ~ as your Ameer and Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ~~ as your teacher and minister. They are both amongst the chosen companions of Rasulullaah .~ and veterans of Badr. Learn from them and follow their. example. By sending Abdullah to you, I have actually sacrificed my own need for him.

I have also sent Uthmaan bin Hunayf ~~ as to survey the rural areas of Iraq. I have stipulated that their wages should be a goat every day. Half the goat and its innards should be given to Ammaar ~~ (because as the Ameer, he would naturally have guests to feed) and the other half should be shared between the other three men (i.e. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ~, Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Hunayf ~~ and Hadhrat Hudhayfabin Yamaan ~)J.1~, who was sent as an assistant surveyor)." (3) Hadhrat Sha'bi narrates that Hadhrat Umar ~~ once asked, "Tell me who I should appoint to take charge of a public matter that is of great concern to me?" When the name of Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf ~ was suggested, Hadhrat Umar ~~ noted that he was not up to the task. When another name was suggested, Hadhrat Umar ~~ said, "I have no need for him." When Hadhrat Umar ~~ was asked who it was that he required, he replied, "Someone who will be like one of the people when he becomes the Ameer (because of his humility) and when he is not the Ameer, he appears to be the Ameer (because of his high sense of responsibility)." The people (with Hadhrat Umar ~) then said, "we know of none suitable besides Rabee bin Ziyaad Haarithi." "That is true," confirmed Hadhrat Umar ~~. (4) Who will be Successful as an Ameer Hadhrat Abu waa'il Shaqeeq bin'Salama reports· that Hadhrat Umar ~~. once appointed Hadhrat· Bishr bin AaSim ~,~ to collect. the Zakaah of the Hawaazin tribe.

However, when Hadhrat BishT ~~ failed to do so, Hadhrat Umar ~~ met him and asked, ''What has kept you back? Is it not necessary to listen to me (I) Abu Nu'aym in his Hi/ya and Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in Kiin7ul Vmmaal0/0l.!pg.146). (2) Ibn Sa'd 0/01.3 Pg,60). (3) Ibn Sa'd, Haakim andsa'eed bin Mansoor, as quoted in Kanzul Vmmaal0/01.2 Pg.314). Tabraani has also reported the narration without the part mentioning Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Hunayf ~~. Haythami 0/01.9 Pg.291) has commented on the chain of narrators and Bayhaqi 0/01.9 Pg.136) has also reported the narration in detail with another chain of narrators.

(4) Abu Ahmad Haakim in his Kuna, as quoted in KanzuJ vmmaaJ0/ol.3 Pg.164). TIlE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) and to obey me?" "Of course," replied Hadhrat Bishr ~~, "but. I have heard Rasulullaah ~ say, 'Whoever is appointed to carry out a public task shall be brought forward on the Day of Qiyaamah and made to stand on the bridge spanning Jahannam. If he carried out the task well, he will be saved, but if he did not fulfil the responsibility, the bridge will shatter and he will fall for seventy years into Jahannam.'11 Hadhrat Umar ~~ left in a very distressed and worried state. Hadhrat Abu Dharr ®,ti.,~ then met him and asked, 'Why do I see you so distressed and worried?" Hadhrat Umar ~ replied, "Why should I not be distressed and worried when I have heard Bishr.bin Aasim say, "I have heard Rasulullaah ~~ say, Whoever is appointed to carry out a public task shall be brought forward on the Day of Qiyaamah and made to stand on the bridge spanning Jahannam . .If he carried out the task well, he will be saved, but if he did not fulfil the responsibilIw, the bridge will shatter and he will fall for seventy years into Jahannam.'" Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~~ asked, "Did you not hear Rasulullaah ~ say this?" When Hadhrat Umar ®,ti.,~ said that he 'had not, Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~ said, "I testity that I Had certainly heard Rasulullaah ~ state, 'Whoever is appointed to carry out any public task shall be brought forward on the Day of Qiyaamah and made to stand on the bridge spanning Jahannam. If he carried out the task well, he will be saved, but if he did not fulfil the responsibility, the bridge will shatter and he will fall for seventy years into Jahannam, and Jahannam is extremely black and dark.' Now which of these two narrations instils more fear in your heart?" Hadhrat Umar ~~ replied, "They have both instilled great fear in my heart.

Who will then be able to accept the responsibility and do justice to it?" Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~ replied, "The person whose nose Allaah intends cutting and whose cheek Allaah wishes to bring to the ground (whom Allaah wishes to disgrace). However, we know only good of your Khilaafah. Then again, it is possible that if you hand over the post to someone who does not exercise justice, you will also not be saved from the sin (of his injustice)." (I) Refusing to be an Ameer Hadhrat Miqaad bin Aswad ~~~ Refuses to be an Ameer and the Statement of Hadhrat Anas ~:&~ in this, Regard Hadhrat Anas ~~~ reports that Rasulullaah ~ once appointed Hadhrat Miqdaad bin Aswad· ~. as Ameer of a troop of cavalrymen. When he returned from the expedition, RasuluUaah ~ asked him what he thought about being (1) Tabraani, as quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb (voL:> Pg.44). Haythami (Vol.5 Pg.205) has commented on the chain of narrators. Abdur Razzaaq.

Abu Nu'aym, Abu Sa'eed Naqqaash, Baghawi and Daar Qutni have also reported the narration, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vo/.3 Pg.163). Ibn Abi Shayba and Ibn'Mandah have also reported it with another chain of narrators, as quoted in fsaaba (VoL 1 Pg.152). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~ (Vol-2) an Ameer. He repUed, "I was helped to sit and to stand (the men gave me great honour) to the extent that I feel as if I am no longer myself (my humility has been diminished)." Ra~ulullaah ~ commented, "Leadership it like that (it does that to a person)." Hadhrat Miqdaad ~~ then said, "I swear by the Being Who has sent you with the truth that I shall never again assume any post of leadership." Thereafter, Hadhrat Miqdaad ~~ would even decline when people asked him to lead them in salaah. (1) Another narration from Hadhrat Anas ~.~ quotes that Hadhrat Miqdaad ~,t:.'l~ said, "I was helped on to my conveyance and helped to dismount until I felt as if I was superior to the others." Rasulullaah ~ then told him, "Such is leadership. You may therefore either accept it or reject it." Hadhrat Miqdaad ~.~ then swore, "I swear by the Being Who has sent you with the truth that I shall never again assume command of even two persons." (2) The Narration of Tabraani about the Incident of Hadhrat Miqdaad ~!Ju~ Hadhrat Miqdaad bin Aswad ~ says, "Rasulullaah ~ sent me on an expedition.

When we returned,he asked me, 'How do you find yourself?' I repUed, 'I gradually started to think that the others were my servants. I swear by Allaah that after this I shall never again take command of even two persons." (3) It is reported that Rasulullaah ~ once appOinted someone to lead an expedition. When the man had completed his duties and returned, Rasulullaah ~ asked him, "How was it to be the Ameer?" The man replied, "Although I behaved like one of them, they all mounted when I did and dismounted when I did." Rasulullaah ~ commented, "Leaders stand at the door of oppression (are prone to oppress) except for those whom Allaah saves (from committing oppression)." The man then said, "I swear by Allaah that I shall never again accept command from you or from anybody else." Rasulullaah ~ then smiled broadly until even his back teeth were visible. (4) The Advice Hadhrat Abu Bakr ®).1~ gave to· Hadhrat Raafi Taa'I About Being an Ameer Hadh.rat RaafI Taa'i ~~ narrates that he accompanied Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ on an expeqition and when they were returning, he asked Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ for some advice. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ said, "EstabUsh the Fardh salaah at its fixed hours, pay the zakaahdue on your wealth with the pleasure of your heart, fast during the month of Ramadhaan and perform pilgrimage to the House of Allaah (Hajj). Remember well that Hijrah in Islaam is an excellent virtue, and to make Jihaad in Hijrah is very good.

Also remember that you should never (1) Bazzaar, Haythami 0/01.5 Pg.201) has commented on the chain of narrators. (2) Abu Nu'aym in his Hiiya 0/oLl Pg.l74). A similar narration has also been reported from Hadhrat Miqdaad ~ himself. albeit briefly. (3) Tabraani. Haythami 0/01.5 Pg.20 1) has commented on the chain of narrators. (4) Tabraani.

Haythami0/01.5 Pg.201) has commented on the chain of narrators. THEUVES OF THE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2) become an Ameer. This post of leadership that appears to be so pleasurable today will soon become so widespread that people who are not fit for it will have it. The person who becomes an Ameer shall be amongst those to experience the longest reckoning (on the Day of Qiyaamah) and also the harshest of punishment (for failing in his duties). On the other hand, the person who does not become an Ameer will be amongst those to experience the shortest reckoning and the lightest of punishment. This is because leaders are most prone to oppress the Mu'mineen and whoever oppresses the Mu'mineen has breached his pledge with Allaah since the Mu'mineen are Allaah's neighbours and His slaves.

By Allaah! If even the goat or camel of your neighbour has to come to some harm, you would spend the night with swollen veins (in anger) repeatedly saying, 'My neighbour's goan' or 'My neighbour's came!!' (More than this) Allaah has a greater right to get angry for the sake of His neighbours." (1) The Incident that Occurred between Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ and Hadhrat Raafi ~~~ Concerning Leadership Hadhrat Raafi ~~ narrates that Rasulullaah ~ dispatched Hadhrat Amr bin Al Aas ~~ as commander of the army that marched to the Battle of Dhaatus Salaasil. Together with him in the army Rasulullaah ~ also sent Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~,~, Hadhrat Vmar ~ and other leading Sahabah ~~. The army proceeded until they set up camp at the two mountains of the Tay tribe. When Hadhrat Vmar ~~~ suggested that they find a guide to show lilem the road, the others said that the only guide can be Raafi bin Amr because he had been a 'rabeel'. The narrator of the Hadith says that he asked his teacher Hadhrat Taariq what a 'rabeel' was and he was informed that a 'rabeel' was a robber who single-handedly tackles a group of people and robs them all.

Hadhrat Raafi ~~~ narrates further, 'When we had completed the expedition and returned to the place from where we had left, I had already judged Abu Bakr ~ to be an excellent man, so I approached him and said, '0 man of Halaa!! From amongst all your companions, I have judged you to be the best, so tell me something that will make me part of your people and just like you if I remember it.' Abu Bakr ~~ said, 'can you remember your five fingers?' When I replied in the affirmative he said, 'Testify that there is none worthy of worship but Allaah the One Who has no partner, that Muhammad ~ is the Rasul of Allaah, establish salaah, pay Zakaah if you have wealth, perform the pilgrimage to the Kabah and fast during Ramadhaan. Can you remember this?' 'Of course,' I replied. He then added, 'And there is also something else, that you should never become the Ameer of even two persons.' I said, 'Can ar.yone be given command other than you veterans of Badr?' He replied, 'This post will soon spread until it reaches you and even people whose status is inferior to yours.' Abu Bakr ~~ then continued, 'Verily when Allaah sent His messenger, people (1) lbn Mubaarak in his zuhd, as quoted in KanzuJ UmmaaJ (Vo1.3 Pg.162). THELTVES OF THESAHABAH ~~ (Vol~2) started entering the fold of Islaam. Amongst them were those whom Allaah had guided and who (gladly) entered Islaam.

Others were those whom the sword had compelled (to accept Islaam). All these people have sought Allaah's protection and are Allaah's neighbours in his custody. When a man becomes .the Ameerand the people (under his command) oppress each other, Allaah will take revenge from him if he does not give back to the oppressed what the oppressors had taken from them. This is just like the case when your neighbOUr's goat is taken away and you spend the entire day with swollen veins out of feeling for your neighbour. In the same way, Allaah also lends his support to His neighbours;'" Hadhrat Raafi ~.~ reports further, "It was a year later that Abu Bakr ~ was made the Khalifah. I then rode off to meet him.

I introduced myself as Raafi and reminded him where I had been his guide. When he confirmed that he remembered who I was, I said, 'You used to prevent me from becoming an Ameer and now you have mounted a much greater task as the Ameer of the entire Ummah of Muhammad ~: He replied, 'Indeed, because the one who does not enforce the Book ofAllaah amongst the people shall earn the curse of Allaah." (1) The Sahabah ~~ Prefer Fighting Rather than Taking Command Hadhrat Sa'eed bin Amr bin Sa'eed .bin AI Aas narrates that his uncles Hadhrat Khaalid bin Sa'eed bin Al Aas ~, Hadhrat Abaan bin Sa'eed bin Al Aas ~~ and Hadhrat Amr bin Sa'eedbin AI AaS ~~ all returned to Madinah from their posts (as governors of various districts) when they heard about the demise of Rasulullaah ~. Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ said to them, "None are more qualified to be governors than those whom Rasulullaah ~ himself appointed (you should therefore return to your postS)." However, they replied, "We shall not command for anyone." They then returned to Shaam where all of them were martyred." (2) The Incident that Occurred between Hadhrat Umar ~~~ and Hadhrat Abaan bin Sa'eed ~~~ Concerning an Appointment to Command and Hadhrat Umar ~~ Dispatches Hadhrat Alaa bin Hadhrami ~)J.1~ to Bahrain Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Sa'eed bin Yarboo narrates that when Hadhrat Abaan bin Sa'eed ~~ returned to Madinah, Hadhrat Umar ~ said to him, "You have no right to come here and leave your post without the permission of . your leader, especially under the present circumstances (when people are revolting and the enemy is ready to pounce on US). It however seems that you have no fear" Hadhrat Abaan ~~replied, "I swear by Allaah that I shall never accept command from anyone after Rasulullaah ~. If I were to accept (I) Tabraani. Haythami (\/01.5 Pg.202) has commented on the chain of narrators.

(2) Haakim, Abu Nu'aym and Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in Kanzui Ummaai (\/01.;>. Pg: 126) .. mE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2J command from anyone after Rasulullaah ~, I would accept a post from Abu Bakr ~~ because of. his virtue and his early entry into Islaam. However, I would still not want to accept any post of command from anyone after Rasulullaah ~." When Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ consulted with the Sahabah ~~ about whom to send to Bahrain, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ said, "Send the person whom Rasulullaah ~ had sent to them (the people of Bahrain), the one who made them Muslims and subservient. Someone whom they will recognise, who recognises them and who knows their land," Hadhrat Uthmaan ~ was referring to Hadhrat Alaa bin Hadhrami $I~. Hadhrat Umar ~ however. refused to accept the proposal and said, "Force Abaan bin Sa'eed bin AI Aas to return because he is a man who has been there several times." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~ refused to force him saying, "I shall not do it. I cannot force a person who says that he will not accept a post of command from anyone after Rasulul\aah M§." Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ then confirmed that Hadhrat Alaa bin Hadhrami $I.u.?;~ would be sent to Bahrain.

(1) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~,~~ Refuses to Accept an Appointment as Ameer Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~ reports that Hadhrat Umar ~ once summoned. him to accept a post as governor, but he refused to accept the post. Hadhrat Umar $I~ said, "You dislike an appointment to a post when someone better than you actually asked for it." When Hadhrat Abu Hurayran ~ asked who it was that asked for a post, Hadhrat Umar ~~~ xeplied, "Yusuf bin Ya'qoob ~." Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah $I~~ then said, "Yusuf ~~. was the Nabi of Allaah and the son of a Nabi, while I am merely Abu Hurayrah the son of Umayma. I fear three and two things (equalling five)," ''Why don't you just say 'five things'?" enquired Hadhrat Umar ~, Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah $I~ replied, "I fear that I should say anything without knowledge, pass wrong judgement (as a governor, because of which I WOUld) have my back lashed, have my wealth taken away and my reputation inSUlted," (2) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~)J5~ Refuses to be Appointed as judge Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mowhab reports that Hadhrat Uthmaan $I~~ once said to Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~.~, "Go and pass judgement between the people," Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ requested. "will you not excuse me, o Ameerul Mu'mineen?" Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ emphatically said. "Never! I have sworn that you must be the judge." "Do not be hasty." Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ spoke.

"have you heard Rasulullaah ~ say. 'The person who (1) Ibn Sa'd, as quoted in KanzuJ Ummaai(Vol.3 Pg.133). (2) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vol. J Pg.380). Abu Moosa has also reported the narration in his DhayJ, but the author of Isaaba (Vol.4 Pg.241) has commented on the chain of narrators. Ibn Sa'd (VolA Pg.59) has also reported the narration with some additions at the beginning.

THE UVES OF THE SAHABAH ~ (Vol-2J seeks protection from Allaah has sought a great source of protection.'" When Hadhrat Uthmaan ~~ confirmed that he had heard the "Hadith, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ said~ "I then seek Allaah's protection from being a judge." Hadhrat Uthmaan ~,~ then asked, ''What prev.ents you when your father was a judge?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ replied, "I have heard Rasulullaah ~ say, 'The person who is a judge and passes judgement in ignorance shall be one of the inmates of Jahannam. As for the one who is a knowledgeable judge and passes correct and just judgement, he wiU plead (before Allailh on the Day of Qiyaamah) for an acquittal (that he should neither receive any rewards nor any sin).' What have I to hope for after this?,,(l) A narration of Ahmad adds that after this, Hadhrat Uthmaan ~ excused Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ and told him not to inform anyone else about it. (otherwis THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2J bounties and refrained from saying it." (1) A narration of Abu Husayn states that Hadhrat Mu'aawiya ~~ said, "Who is more worthy than us of this post (of KhiIaafah)?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ said, "I wanted to say, 'More worthy than you is the one who hit your neck and your father's neck (to bring you into Islaam).' However, 1 then thought about the bounties of Jannah and feared that I would be spoiling them (by saying this)." (2) A narration of Imaam Zuhri states that when Hadhrat (Hasan bin) Ali ~ and Hadhrat Mu'aawiya ~~ got together, Hadhrat Mu'aawiya ~t5 announced, "Who is most worthy of the post of Khilaafah then me?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~ said, "I wanted to say, 'More worthy than you is the one who hit your neck and your father's neck because of your Kufr (myseIO.' However, I feared that (if 1 said this) thoughts would be entertained about me that are not true (people would think that 1 desired to be the Khalifah which was not true)." Imraan bin Husayn ~)J.1~ Refuses to be an Ameer Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Saamit ~~ reports that when ziyaad wanted to dispatch Hadhrat Imraan bin Husayn ~ as governor of Khurasan, he refused to accept the post. His friends asked, "Are you forsaking the opportunity to be governor of Khurasan?" He replied, "It does not please me at all that I should suffer the heat of Khurasan (do the hard work of governing) while they (Ziyaad and his followers) enjoy its coolness (by using the income from the region). I fear that if 1 am ever facing the enemy in battle and then a letter would come to me from Ziyaad, which if 1 obey will result in my destruction and if 1 ignore it, will result in my execution (at the hands ofZiyaad)." Ziyaad then appointed Hadhrat Hakam bin Amr Ghifaari ~ as governor of Khurasan and Hadhrat Hakam ~~accepted the post. Hadhrat Imraan ~ then asked someone to summon Hadhrat Hakam ®.~ to him.

A messenger went to Hadhrat Hakam ~~ and when he arrived, Hadhrat Imraan ~~ said to him, "Did you hear Rasulullaah ~ say that no person should be obeyed when it (obedience to the perSON) entails disobedience to Allaah?" When " Hadhrat Hakam ~ confirmed that he had heard this from Rasulullaah~, Hadhrat Imraan exclaimed, "Alhamdu LillaahI" or "Allaahu AkbarI" Another narration from Hadhrat Hasan states that when Ziyaad appointed Hadhrat (Hakam) Ghifaari ~ as commander of the army, Hadhrat Imraan bin Husayn ~ went to see him. Hadhrat Imraan ~~ met him in public and asked, "Do you know why 1 have come to yoU?" When Hadhrat Hakam ~~ asked why he had come, Hadhrat Imraan .~~ said, "Do you remember what Rasulullaah ~ said to the person whose Ameer told him to throw himself into the fire and he was then stopped and prevented (by others from doing what he was commanded). When the incident was reported to Rasulullaah ~,he (1) Tabraani in his Kabeer, narrating from reliable sources, as confirmed by Haythami (VolA Pg.208). Ibn Sa'd NolA Pg.134) has reported a similar narration. (2) Ibn Sa'd. THE LIVES OF THE SAHJiBAH j@t)J.,~ (Vol-2) said to the person, 'Had he fallen into the fire, both of them would have entered Jahannam.

There is no obedience (to anyone) when it entails disobeying Allaah." Hadhrat Hakam ~~ confirmed that he remembered the Hadith. Hadhrat Imraan ~ then said, "I only wished to remind you of this Hadith.,,(I) Respecting the Khalifahs and Ameers and Obeying their Commands The Incident that occurred between Hadhrat Khaalid ~)J.1~ and Hadhrat Ammaar ~)J.1~ During an Expedition Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~~~ narrates that Rasulullaah ~ once dispatched Hadhrat Khaalid bin Waleed bin Mughiera Makhzoomi on expedition. With him was Hadhrat Ammaar bin Yaasir ~~. The expedition left and finally drew close to the people whom they intended to ambush early in the morning. They set up camp there late at night. However, someone warned the people (about the presence of the Sahabah ~l1~) and they all fled to a place of safety.

One of the men amongst them who had accepted Islaam together with his family stayed behind. He instructed his family to load their goods and then told them to wait until he returned. He then proceeded to meet Hadhrat Ammaar ~ and said, "0 Abu Yaqdhaan! My family and I have accepted Islaam. wi1l this help me if I stay behind (in the town) because all my people had fled when they heard about your arrival?" Hadhrat Ammaar ~~ said to him, "You may stay behind, for you are safe." The man and his family then went back. When Hadhrat Khaalid ~,~ launched the attack the next morning, he found that the people had all fled. He then captured the man and his family.

Hadhrat Ammaar ~~. said, "You can do nothing to a man who has accepted Islaam." Hadhrat Khaalid ~~ said, "What have you to do with this? When I am the Ameer, how could you grant a person amnesty without my permission?" Hadhrat Ammaar ~,~ replied, "I can indeed grant amnesty without your permission even though you are the Ameer. This man has accepted Imaan and if he wished to, he could have left with the others. Because he has Imaan, I instructed him to stay behind." The two Sahabah ~ then argued until they started abusing each other. When they returned to Madinah, they both went to Rasulullaah fi and Hadhrat Ammaar ~~ told him about the man and what he had done. Rasulullaah ~ then authorised the amnesty that Hadhrat Ammaar ~~ had granted but at the same time '1lso forbade people from granting amnesty to others without the permission of the Ameer.

The two Sahabah ~~~ then again (1) Ahmad, narrating from reliable sources, as confirmed by Haythami (Vo1.5 Pg.226). Tabraani has also reported the narration and according to some of his narrations, RasuluUaah ~ said, "There is no obedience to the creation when it entails disobeying the Creator." THE LIVES OF THESAHABAH ~ij.7~ (Vol-2) started arguing in the presence of Rasulullaah ~. To this, Hadhrat Khaalid ~ remarked, "0 Rasulullaah ~1 This slave is insulting me in your presence1 I swear by Allaah that had you not been here, he would have never used such terms for me." Rasulullaah ~ said, "0 Khaalid1 Do not harass Ammaar because Allaah dislikes anyone who dislikes Ammaar and Allaah curses anyone who curses Ammaar." Hadhrat Ammaar ~,~ then stood up and left. Hadhrat Khaalid ~~ followed him, grabbed hold of his clothing and continuously made attempts to please Hadhrat Ammaar ~ until Hadhrat Ammaar ~~ was pleased with him. Another narration states that it was then that Allaah revealed the verse: Jl ~j~; ~~ ~ ~jGJ '-'9 t ~ ;'~, ~) J J~}\ ;~~J .:dJ, ,;~~) (ra ~'s :I~ ,:: " " ''',' 9' -: :111. l> • l~\ :"i,". tll"'~ ~: ~ ~: ~~~.) .P:"'" ..Ar--~'V.JI.f":;~Y •• ..:; IJ-'.rJ'V.J "" ~- .. - '" ",;II' , " " , " '" , '" (0,\ i.:.-,!i $oW i).t"") Obey Allaah, obey the Rasool ~ and those in command among you (your military commanders). If you dispute regarding any matter, then refer it to Allaah and the Rasool ~ (so that AJlaah and Hjs Rasool ~ may pass jUdgement in the matter i.e. find the solution in the Qur'aan or in the Ahaadeeth) if you believe in Allaah and the Last Day, This is best ([or all) and gIves the best result (because you will then not be basing your decisions on your personal opinions). {Surah Nisaa, verse 59}(l) The Incident that occurred Between Hadhrat Auf bin Maalik ~~~ and Hadhrat Khaalid b" WId ~'tl-;::JI'V'" In a ee ~,\aI~ Hadhrat Auf bin Maalik Ashja'ee ~~ reports that he was amongst those Muslims who marched with zaid bin Haaritha ~ for the Battle of Mu'ta.

His companion was a man who had come with reinforcements from Yemen. He had nothing but his sword with him. When one of the Muslims slaughtered a camel, the man (from Yemen) asked him for a piece of the leather, which he gladly gave. The man made the piece of leather into a shield for himself and we then proceeded. When we faced the large Roman army there was a man amongst them riding a red horse. His saddle and his w.eaponswere gold plated and he attacked the Muslims very fiercely.

The man from Yemen waited for him behind a boulder and when the Roman passed by, the Yemeni hamstrung his horse, As the Roman fell, the Yemeni attacked and killed him. He then took possession of the Roman's (I) Ibn ]areer and Ibn Asaakir. as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal0/o1.1 Pg.242}. Abu ya'la, Ibn Asaakir. Nasa'ee, Tabraani and Haakim have reported the narration in detail from Hadhrat Khaalid ~, while Ibn Abi shaybah, Ahmad and Nasa'ee have also reported it briefly, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal (Vo!.7 Pg.73). Haakim (Vo\.3Pg.390) has attested to its authenticity, as confirmed by Dhahabi. Haythami (Vo1.9 Pg.294) mentions that Tabraani has also reported the narration both in detail and in brief. similar to the narration of Ahmad and with reliable chains of narrators.

THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH g~ (Vol-2) belongings. After Allaah had granted victory to the Muslims, Hadhrat Khaalid bin Waleed ~~ (who was made the commander after the other commanders had been martyred) sent for the Yemeni and took away the belongings he had taken from the Roman. Hadhrat Auf bin Maalik ®\1.1~ approached Hadhrat Khaalid bin Wa1eed ®~ and said, "0 Khaalid! Don't you know that Rasulullaah ~ has decreed that the one who kills an enemy soldier should take all his possessions?" Hadhrat Khaalid ®~ replied, "Certainly, but I think that these possessions are too much." Hadhrat Auf ~~ objected by saying, ''You must return it to him otherwise I shall definitely expose you before Rasulullaah ~." Hadhrat Khaalid ®)i.~ still refused to return it. Hadhrat Auf ®):l.,~ narrated further that when they both got to Rasulullaah ~, he related to Rasulullaah ~ the entire story of the Yemeni and how Hadhrat Khaalid ®,iJ.,~ had treated him. When Rasulullaah ~ asked Hadhrat Khaalid ~ the reason for his action, he replied, "0 Rasulullaah ~!

I thought that the possessions were too much." Rasulullaah ~ then instructed Hadhrat Khaalid ®)i.~ to return the goods to the Yemeni. At this, Hadhrat Auf ®,~ commented, "So there! Did I not tell you that I would do this (complain about you to Rasulullaah ~and have you punished)?" "What was that all about?" Rasulullaah ~ enquired. When Hadhrat Auf ®,iJ.,~ informed Rasulullaah ~ (about his threat to Hadhrat Khaalid ®)i.~), Rasulullaah ~ became extremely angry and said, "Do not return the goods KhaalidI Will you peopk not leave my commanders alone for my sake (will you not show them respect)?! You people (under their command) receive the benefit of the good they command while they suffer the consequences of their improper commands." (1) The Incident Between Hadhrat Umar ~.~@l;§ and Hadhrat SaId bin Abi Waqqaas ~~ Concerning Respect for a Leader Hadhrat Raashid bin Sa'd reports that some wealth once came to Hadhrat Umar ®)i.~ and he was distributing it amongst the people when they started crowding around him. Hadhrat Sa'd bin Abi Waqqaas ~arrived and forced his way through the crowd until he reached Hadhrat Umar ~.

Hadhrat Umar ®)i.~ lifted up his whip over Hadhrat Sa'd ~ and said, "You came here as if you have no fear for Allaah's commander on earth! I wish to teach you that Allaah's commander on earth also has no fear for you." (2) The Incident Between Hadhrat Umar ~~~ and Hadhrat Amr bin AI Aas ~,~~ Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Yazeed narrates that Rasulullaah ~ once dispatched Hadhrat Amr bin Al Aas ®~ as commander of a military expedition that (\) Ahmad, Muslim and Abu Dawood, as quoted in Ai Bidaaya wan Nihaaya (Vol.4 Pg.249). Bayhaqi (Vo1.6 Pg.310) has also reported a similai' narra~ion. (2) Ibn Sa'd (Vo1.3 Pg.206) THE LIVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) included Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~ and Hadhrat Vmar ~~~. When they reached the place where the battle was to be fought, Hadhrat Amr bin AI Aas ~~ issued the command that no fires were to be lit. This angered Hadhrat Vmar ~~~ and he was about to object when Hadhrat Abu Bakr ~~~ stopped him and said to him, "Rasulullaah ~ has made him your commander because of his knowledge of warfare." Hadhrat Umar ~ then simmered down.

(I) The Narration of Hadhrat Ayaad bin Ghanam ~~~ Concerning Respect for the Ameer Hadhrat Jubayr bin Nufayr ~~ reports that Hadhrat Ayaadh bin Ghanam Ash'ari ~ severely punished the governor of Daaraa when the Muslims conquered the place. Hadhrat Hishaam bin Hakeem ~~ came to him and harshly reprimanded him (for this act). After a few days, Hadhrat Hishaam ~ apologetically came back to Hadhrat Ayaadh ~~ and said, "Do you not know that Rasulullaah ~ said, 'The people who will be most severely punished on the Day of Qiyaamah will be those who punished people most severely in this world'?" Hadhrat Ayaadh ~~~ responded by saying, "0 Hishaaml We have heard what you heard, we have seen what you have seen and we have been in the company of Rasulullaah ~ just as you have been. 0 Hishaaml Did you not hear Rasulullaah ~ say, 'Whoever wishes to advise their leader should never address it to him in public. He should rather take him by the hand and address him in private. If the leader accepts it, he accepts it. Otherwise, the advisor has discharged the obligation and the right he owes to his leader.' However, 0 Hishaam, you have been very bold against AIlaah's commander.

Do you not fear that AIlaah's commander would have you killed and you would be known as one whom the commander had executed?,,(2) The Statement of Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~~~ Concerning Drawing Weapons Against the Anleer Hadhrat Zaid bin Wahab reports that during the time of Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~~, some people complained to him about the Ameer. A man then entered the large Oaami) Masjid and weaved his way through the people until he reached Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~.~. He stood by the head of Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~~ and said, "0 companion of Rasulullaah ~1 Will you not enjoin good and forbid evil?" Knowing what the man meant (that Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~~ ought to (1) Bayhaqi (Vo\.9 Pg.41). Haakim has reported the narration from Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Buraydah who narrates from his father that Rasulullaah ~ had dispatched Hadhrat Amr bin AI AaS ~ as commander of the expedition that fought the Battle of Dhaatus Salaasi\' The rest of the report is the same. The chain of narrators are reliable, as confirmed by Imaam Dhahabi. (2) Haakim (Voi.3 Pg.290). but Dhahabi has commented on the chain of narrators.

Bayhaqi (Voi. B Pg.164) has reported the narration from the. same narrators. The narration also appears in M8jma'uz zawaa'id (Voi.5 Pg.229) with confirmation of its reliability. A narration of Ahmad states that when Daaraa was conquered, Hadhrat Ayaadh ~ had its leader lashed, after which Hadhrat Hishaam ~ harshly reprimanded him. The rest of the narration is similar as the above. Haythami (Voi.5 Pg.229) has commented on the chain of narrators.

THE liVES OF mE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2J oppose the Ameer), Hadhrat Hudhayfah ~,~ looked up and said to him, "Undoubtedly, enjoining good and forbidding evil is an excellent deed. However, drawing weapons against your Ameer is certainly not a Sunnah practice." (I) A Narration of Hadhrat Abu Bakrah ~~ Concerning Respect for an Ameer Hadhrat Ziyaad bin Kusayb Adawi reports that Abdullaah bin Aamir used to deliver lectures to the people while wearing fine clothing and with well groomed hair. After leading the salaah one day and entering his room, Mirdaas Abu Bilaal cQmmented, 'Would 'you look at the people's Ameer and leader! He wears fine clothes and adopts the appearance of the sinners!" Hadhrat Abu Bakrah ~~ was sitting next to the pulpit. When he heard this, he told his son Usayli to call Abu Bilaal. When Abu Bilaal arrived, Hadhrat Abu Bakrah ~ said to him, If I have heard the comment you have just made about the Ameer.

I have heard Rasulullaah ~ say, 'Allaah will honour the person who honours His Ameer and will disgrace the person who disgraces Allaah's Ameer." (2) The Ameer is Obeyed only when he Instructs what is Right Hadhrat Ali bin Abi Taalib ~ reports that Rasulullaah ~ once appointed a Sahabi form the Ansaar as commander of an expedition. Rasulullaah ~ dispatched the expedition with instructions to listen' to and to obey their commander. However, the others happened to aggravate their commander in some way and he ordered them to gather firewood. When they did as they were ordered, he instructed them to light a fire. After they had lit the fire, he said to them, "Did Rasulullaah ~ not instruct you listen to me and to obey me?" When they acknowledged the instruction, he said, "Then enter this nre." The. men started looking at each other saying, "It was the fire (of ]ahannam) that we were escaping from when we went to Rasulullaah ~." In the meantime, the commander's anger abated and the fire died off. . When the men returned and reported the incident to Rasulullaah ~, he said, "Had' they entered it, they would have never emerged from it (because after death they would have entered the fire of ]ahannam).

Obedience is only in matters of good." (3) (l) Bazzaar. Haythami (Vol. 5 Pg.224) has commented on the chain of narrators. (2) Bayhaqi (Vo1.8 Pg.163). (3) Bulchari and Muslim. Bukhari and Muslim have also reported the narration from Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~, as quoted in Ai iJ/daaya wan Njhaaya (VolA Pg.226). Ibn Jareer has also reported the narration from Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ while Ibn Abi Shaybah has reported it from Hadhrat Abu Sa'eed Khudri ~.

According to a narration in Kanzu/ Ummaa/ (V01.3 Pg.170), Hadhrat Abu Sa'eed Khudr! !il~ has named the Ansaari commander as Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Hudhaafa Sahmi ~. As quoted in lsaaba (Vo1.2 Pg.296). Bukharihas also given the same name in the narration of Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~ (Vol-2) The Narration of Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~,IJ5~ Concerning Respe~ting the Ameer Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar ~~ narrates that Rasulullaah ~ was once with a group of the Sahabah ~ when he turned to them and. said, "Do you not know that I am verily the Rasul of Allaah sent to you?" The Sahabah ~~ replied, "But of course. We testify that you are certainly the Rasul of Allaah." Rasulullaah ~ then asked them, "Do you not know that whoever obeys me obeys Allaah and obedience to me is part of obedience to Allaah?" The Sahabah ~~ responded by saying, "But of course. We testifY that whoever obeys you obeys Allaah and obedience to you is part of obedience to Allaah." Rasulullaah ~ went on to say, "For you to obey me is part of obedience to Allaah and for you to obey your leaders is part of obedience to me.

In fact, even if they perform salaah sitting down, you should also perform salaah sitting down." (I) The Advice Rasulullaah ~ gave to Ha.dhrat Abu Dharr ~lJ&~ Concerning Showing Respect to the Ameer Hadhrat Asmaa bint Yazeed ~~ reports that Hadhrat Abu Dharr Ghifaari ~~ used to serve Rasulullaah ~ and would return to the Masjid after he had completed. The Masjid was his home where he used to lie down (to sleep). Rasulullaah ~ happened to enter the Masjid one night where he found Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~ sleeping on the ground. Rasulullaah ~ prodded him gently. with his foot until Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~~ sat upright. Rasulullaah ~ then .said to him, "Did I not see you sleeping in the Masjid?" "Where should I sleep?" asked Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~, "I have no home besides thiS." Rasulullaah ~ then sat with him and said, "What will you do when the people expel ybu from the Masjid?" Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~ replied, "I shall then go to Shaam, which is the place of migration .(of the previous Ambiyaa), the place where mankind will be resurrected and the land of many Ambiyaa. I shall then become one of its people." Rasulullaah ~ asked further, "What will you then do if they exile you from Shaam?" "I shall then return (to Madinah), which will be my horne and place of residence." Rasulullaah ~ again enquired, "And what if they exile you from here for the second time?" Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~ resolved, "I shall then take up my sword and fight until I die." Rasulullaah ~ smiled at him and placed his hand on him saying, "Should I rather guide you to something that is better than that?" Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~ exclaimed, "Why not, 0 Rasululiaah ~?

May my parents be sacrificed for yoU!" Rasulullaah ~ said, "Follow them wherever they lead you and go along to wherever they drive you until you eventually meet me in that condition.,,(2) (1) Abu Ya'ia and Ibn Asaakir, both narrating from reliable sources, as quoted in KanzuJ Ummaal (VoB Pg.168). (2) Ibn Jareer. as quoted in KanzuJ Ummaal (VoU Pg.168). Ahmad has also reported the narration but Haythami (VO\.5 Pg.223) has commented on the chain of narrators. mE LWES OF mE SAHABAH ~!J.1~ (Vol-2J Another narration from Hadhrat Abu Dharr ~~ states that Rasulullaah fij asked, 'What will you then do when you are removed from there (Madinah)?" Hadhrat Abu· Dharr ~ replied, "I shall take my sword and strike anyone who wants to remove me." Rasulullaah ~ then placed his hand on the shoulder of Hadhrat Abu Dharr t and said, "Overlook (what they do) 0 Abu Dharr. You should rather follow them wh&ever they lead you and go along to wherever they drive you even though you have to adopt this attitude even with an Abyssinian slave."