Chapter Thirteen

The Chapter Concerning Knowledge and The Fervour the Sahabah WcGW had for Knowledge itE3had for divine knowledge and how they encouraged it. I t further discusses how they taught and learnt knowledge pertaining to lmaan and good deeds and also how they preoccupied themselves with it whether they were on journey or at home, undergoing hardship or enjoying prosperity. Also highlighted is how they dedicated themselves to teaching guests who arrived In Madinah Munawwarah (may millions of salutations and greetings go to the master of the place). Furthermore, the chapter illustrates how they blended the dissemination of divine knowledge with Jihaad and earning a living. In addition to this, it describes how they dispatched individuals to c~ties to disseminate divine knowledge and how they also gave importance to inculcating within S' 9l* Y The Encouragement Rasulullaah k$t& Gave towards Knowledge THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAfi @,%!&@ (Vol-3) 19 7 bones have weakened.

I have come to you to teach me something by which Allaah will grant me great benefit.' Rasulullaah said, 'Every stbne, tree and mound of sand that you passed (on your way here) prayed for your forgiveness. 0 Qabeesah! You will be saved from blindness, leprosy and paralysis if after performing your Fajr salaah, you thrice recite the dua ' '. ; 41 41 GI&> (?+&O Qabeesah! You should also recite the dua: '0 Allaah! I implore You for that which is with You. Pour Your grace upon me, shower Your mercy upon me and send down Your blessings to me."'(') Rasulullaah Tells Two of the Sahabah '@@d&d&5 that Seeking Knowledge Atones for Sins Hadhrat Sakhbarah 3!3W narrates that two men were passing by when Rasulullaah @?% was busy giving a talk.

Rasulullaah said to them, "Sit down because you two are upon great goodness." When Rasulullaah @% (had completed and) got up, the Sahabah dispersed. The two men then also got up and asked, "0 Rasulullaah m! You had mentioned that the two of us were upon great goodness. Is this for us exclusively or for the general public as well?" Rasulullaah @!% replied, "Whenever a servant of Allaah seeks knowledge, it atones for all his past sins." (2) The Superiority of an Aalim over an Ordinary SC ,I" Y Worshipper in the Words of Rasulullaah && Hadhrat Abu Umaamah Baahili 3G&j says that someone once spoke to Rasulullaah about two men, one being an Aalim and the other an ordinary worshipper. Rasulullaah remarked, "The superiority of an Aalim over an ordinary worshipper is like my superiority over the lowest amongst you." Rasulullaah @&$ then proceeded to say, "Verily Allaah showers His mercy on the person who teaches people to do good.

In addition to this, the angels, the inhabitants of the heavens and even the ants in their anthills and the fish in the oceans pray for his forgiveness." (3) Another narration does not mention the incident of the two men but continues to state that Rasulullaah @@ said, "The superiority of an Aalim over an ordinary worshipper is like my superiority over the lowest amongst you." Thereafter, Rasulullaah lk$?@ recited the verse: (1) Ahmad, as quoted in Jam'ul Fawaa'id (Vo1.l Pg.21). Mundhiri and Haythami have commented on the chain of narrators. (2) Tirmidhi and Tabraani, as quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb (Vol.1 Pg.60). (3) Tirmidhi. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH $$$!g$%j' (Vol-3) From Allaah's bondsmen, it is only the Ulema who truly fear Him. {Surah Faatir, verse 28) The rest of this narration ends off just like the one quoted above.

( I ) Hadhrat Hasan narrates that Rasulullaah @?@ was once questioned about two men who were from amongst the Bani Israa'eel. While one was an Aalim who performed only the compulsory salaahs and then sat to teach the people good, the other fasted throughout the day and performed salaah all night. The Sahabah @,= wanted to know which of the two were better. Rasulullaah @&%Is reply was: "The superiority of the Aalim who performed only the compulsory salaahs and then sat to teach the people good over the one who fasted throughout the day and performed salaah all night is like my superiority over the lowest amongst you."(2) The Encouragement Rasulullaah gave for Seeking Knowledge Hadhrat Uqba bin Aamir - says that they were on the Suffa platform when Rasulullaah @@ came out of his room and said, "Which of you would like to every day to go to the marketplaces of Buthaan or Aqeeq and return with two excellent camels with large humps without committing any sin or severing any family ties?" "0 Rasulullaah @@!" the Sahabah i 4 3 , ~ said, "Each one of us would love to do that." Rasulullaah @&$ then said, "If you go to the Masjid and teach or learn two verses of the Qur'aan, it will be better for you than the two camels. Similarly, three verses are better than three camels, four verses better than four camels and a any number of verses better than an equal number cf Rasulullaah m ' s Words to a Working Man who Complained of his Brother who was Busy Acquiring Knowledge Hadhrat Anas %W%j reports that during the time of Rasulullaah &%! there were two brothers, one of whom worked while the other was always with Rasulullaah @%@ to learn from him 6%.

When the working brother complained about his brother So Rasulullaah @@ (that he did not work), Rasulullaah @%% said to him, "It is perhaps because of him that you are granted sustenance." (4) The Encouragement the Sahabah 4M,E5W Gave towards Seeking Knowledge Hadhrat Ali %@w Encourages Acquiring Knowledge and the Narration of Hadhrat Kumayl from him Hadhrat Abu Tufayl narrates that Hadhrat Ali W= used to say, "Indeed the (1) Daarmi. (2) Daarmi, as quoted in Mishkaatul Masaabeeh (Pg.26,28). (3) Muslim, as quoted in Mishkaatul Masaabeeh (Pg.175). Abu Nu'aym has reported a similar narration in his Hi&a (Vol.1 Pg.341). (4) Tirmidhi, as quoted in Jam'ul Fawaa'id (Vol.1 Pg.20).

Ibn Abdul Birr has reported a similar THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH '@,%$@5 (Val-3) people closest to the Arnbiyaa are those who practise most on what they brought." He would then recite.the verse: j 0 0 , E r d 6 l I > , J A 0,. c , ~ ~ i : ~ \ + ~ i i ~ ~ , (\+II &+\, ,.JI lrj125 ~ $ .* &UI . J,I CI~) Verily those closest to Ibraheem @&$ are the'ones who followed him and this Nabi and those who have Imaan.. . {Surah Aal Imraan, verse 68) He would then explain, "The verse (the words 'this Nabi and those who have Imaan ') refers to Muhammad and those who follow him. You people should therefore never change because those close to Muhammad @%% are those who obey Allaah. On the other hand, the enemies of Muhammad @%% are those who disobey Allaah even though they may be close relatives of Muhammad @g$ 'l(1) a. Hadhrat Kumayl bin Ziyaad narrates, "Hadhrat Ali bin Abi Taalib %,- once caught hold of my hand and took me into the desert.

When we were in the desert, he sat down, sighed and said, '0 Kumayl bin Ziyaad! Hearts are like containers and the best of hearts are those that take heed the most. Remember well what I have to say to you. People fall into three categories. There is the Aalim who is attached to Allaah, the learner who is on the path of salvation and a mean uncultured type of person who follows every noise-maker, who sways with the wind, who has gleaned nothing from the light from divine knowledge and who has not even taken support from a strong pillar.

Knowledge is better than wealth because while knowledge guards you, you have to guard wealth and while knowledge increases with spending (by practising on it and teaching it), wealth decreases with spending. Love for knowledge is a loan that will be repaid (by Allaah). Knowledge earns authority for the Aalim in this life and fond memories after his death while the achievements of wealth disappear once the wealth is no more. Even though they are alive, the treasurers of wealth are really dead while She Ulema live on throughout the annals of time. While the Ulema (after death) may not be visible to the eye, their honour and love stii lives on in the hearts (of people)." '* "Ah!" Hadhrat Ali - sighed.

Pointing to his chest, he said, "Verily in here is such knowledge that I wish I could find a bearer for it. However, all I can find are quick-witted-people who cannot be trusted. They uke the instruments of Deen for worldly purposes by employing Qur'aanic arguments against the Qur'aan and the bounties of Allaah.against His servants. The only other type of person I find is one who follows people of the truth but has no insight into inspiring it. He therefore falls into doubt with the first doubt that presents itself, because of which he does not know where he stands.

The other type of person I find is one immersed in carnal pleasures, who is a devout follower of passions. The other type I find is the one who is infatuated with wealth and amassing wealth. In fact, the last two types are not even callers to the ~ e e n ( ~ ) and the most fitting narration in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.1 Pg.59), as has Haakim in his Mustadrak (Vo1.l Pg.94), reporting from reliable sources as confirmed by Dhahabi. (1) Lalkala'ee, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal(Vol.1 Pg.96). (2) While the first two are callers to Deen, their other iniquities make them ineffective.

THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @,@%> (Vol-3) description of them is to liken them to grazing animals. So knowledge dies with the death of people capable of bearing it. At the same time, the earth is never empty of people who stand up for Allaah using His contentions so that everything that Allaah has proved and made clear to people should never be lost to mankind. Such people are however exceptionally few in number but most valued by Allaah. It is by them that Allaah rebuts criticism against His arguments until they pass on and cultivate (their knowledge and expertise to) others like them.

Their profound knowledge swiftly guides to them perceive the reality of all matters, making it easy for them to understand intricacies that are beyond those who live in affluence and luxury. They are comfortable with matters that perplex and frighten ignorant people. While their bodies are in contact with the world, their souls are attached to a greater scene (the ~akhirah). Such people are Allaah's deputies in the lands and the true callers to his Deen. Ah!

Ah! How I long to meet them! I seek Allaah's forgiveness for me and for you. You may now leave if you please." (I) The Encouragement Hadhrat Mu'aadh bin Jabal ~,EWj gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Mu'aadh bin Jabal %3Gw said, "Acquire (divine) knowledge because learning it is fear ~f Allaah, going out in search of it is Ibaadah, rehearsing it is Tasbeeh, discussing it is Jihaad, teaching it to those who do not know is Sadaqah and spending it on those worthy of receiving it promotes nearness to Allaah. This is s o because knowledge highlights what is Halaal and what is Haraam, it is a beacon for people on the road to Jannah, it is a companion in loneliness, a friend in the wilderness, a partner to talk to in solitude and a guide in prosperity and in adversity.

Knowledge is also a weapon against the enemy and makes one shine out when amongst friends. Allaah elevates nations by virtue of this knowledge, making them leaders in virtue so that people follow in their footsteps, emulate their actions and always adopt their opinions. In addition to this, the angels are eager to be with them and rub their wings against them. Everything on land and water seek forgiveness for them, even the fish and other creatures in the oceans and the wild a ~ i d tame animals on land. This is all , because (divine) knowledge brings life to hearts (that have died after suffering) from ignorance, it is a lantern of the eyes against darkness and by virtue of this knowledge, a person reaches the ranks of the chosen ones (of Allaah) and elevated stages in this world as well as in the Aakhirah.

Thinking deeply about such knowledge equals fasting while learning and teaching it equals standing in salaah. It is because of this knowledge that family ties are maintained and the lawful is distinguished from the unlawful. This knowledge is the leader of deeds and all deeds follow from it. It is only the fortunate who are inspired with it, (1) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vol.1 Pg.79). Ibn Ambaari has reported a similar narration in his Masaahif, as have Murhabi in his Ilm.

Nasr in his Hujjah and Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal(Vol.5 Pg.231). Ibn Abdul Birr has also reported part of the narration in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.2 Pg.112) where he states that the narration is so renowned amongst scholars that the chain of narrators need not be quoted. THE LlVES OF THE SAHABAH M,G&5 (Vol-3) while those deprived of it are most unfortunate." (I) The Encouragement Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ~ , E w gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Haaroon bin Rabaab narrates that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood 4-2 said, "Start your mornings as either an Aalim or one busy acquiring the knowledge of Deen but do not be something other than these two because anyone other than these is an ignorant person, Verily, out of their happiness for what he is doing, the angels spread out their wings for a person who ventures out in the morning to seek knowledge." (2) Hadhrat Zaid reports that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ~ @ & j once said, "Start your mornings as either an Aalim or one busy acquiring the knowledge of Deen but do not be one who knows nothing and follows blindly." (3) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood 9,Gw once addressed the people saying, "0 people! Ensure that you acquire the knowledge of Deen before it is taken away from this world. The manner by which it will be taken away is the departure of its bearers.

Ensure that you acquire the knowledge of Deen because none of you knows just when you will need it. Ensure that you acquire the knowledge of Deen but beware of hair-splitting ahd excessiveness. You should also ensure that you follow traditions (that which the Sahabah @GWi did) because there will soon appear people who will recite the Qur'aan but then cast it behind their backs. (4) Iladhrat Abul Ahwas narrates that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood 3,Gw said, "No person is born an Aalim. Knowledge is gained only through studies." (5) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood wWj also said, "Start your mornings as either an Aalim or one busy acquiring the knowledge of Deen but do not be something other than these two.

If you are unable to do this, then at least have love for the Ulema and never despise them." (6) The Encouragement Hadhrat Abu Dardaa %84&%j gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Hasan narrates that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa S,Gw once said, "Either be an Aalim, a student acquiring the knowledge of Deen, one who loves such people or one who follows them. However, never be the fifth person otherwise you will be destroyed." Hadhrat Humayd says that when he asked Hadhrat Hasan who the fifth person was, he replied, "He is the one who innovates acts of Bid'ah." (7) (1) Abu Nu'aym in his Hi&a (Vol.1 Pg.239). Ibn Abdul Birr has also reported the narration in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vo1.l Pg.55) and it is also quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb (Vo1.1 Pg.58). (2) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilrn (Vol.1 Pg.29). (3) Ibn Abdul Birr has also reported the narration in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilrn (Vol. 1 Pg.29).

(4) Tabraani. Haythami (Vol.1 Pg.126) has commented on the chain of narrators. Abdur Razzaaq has reported part of the narration, as quoted in the Jaami if Ibn Abdul Birr (Vol. 1 Pg.78). (5) Ibn Abdul Birr has also reported the narration in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilrn (Vol.1 Pg. 100) (6) Tabraani. Haythami (Vol. 1 Pg. 122) has commented on the chain of narrators.

(7) lbn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.1 Pg.28). THE WVES OF THE SAHABAH iBWj (VOI-3) Hadhrat Dahhaak narrates that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa - once addressed the people saying, "0 people of Damascus! You people are our brothers in Deen, our neighbours in nationality and our allies against the enemy. However, what prevents you from being friendly with me when it is others (and not you) who are paying my expenses. Why is it that I see your learned ones leaving while the ignorant ones fail to learn?

Why do I see you people hankering after that (sustenance) which is being taken care of on your behalf while you neglect that which you have been commanded to do? Remember that there were people who constructed sturdy buildings, who amassed an abundance of wealth and who entertained distant hopes. However, their buildings became their graves, their hopes proved to be deceptive and all they amassed was destroyed. Remember that you must learn and teach others because the reward of the student and the teacher is alike and had it not been for these two, there would be no good in the rest of people." ('1 Hadhrat Hassaan reports that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa - addressed the people of Damascus saying, "Are you people content to just filling yourselves with bread made of wheat flour year in and year out without speaking of Allaah in your gatherings? Why is it that your Ulema are leaving and your ignorant ones are not learning?

If your Ulema had the desire, their numbers could increase and if your ignorant ones look for knowledge, they will certainly find it. Do what will benefit you rather than that which will harm you. I swear by the Being Who controls my life that every nation that was destroyed, was destrdyed only because they followed the dictates of their passions and regarded themselves as spiritually pure." (2) Hadhrat Qurra narrates that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa ?2332&; once said, "Acquire knowledge before it is taken away because its disappearance will be effected by the demise of the Ulema. There are only two categories of men; the Aalim and the student. There is no good in those who do not fall into these categories." (3) Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Mas'ood Faraazi reports that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa - once 'said, 'Whenever anyone proceeds to the Masjid to learn or to teach anything virtuous, he receives the reward of a Mujaahid who returns with booty." (4) Hadhrat Ibn Abu Hudhayl narrates that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa Ww said, "A person is lacking in intelligence and good judgement if he thinks that spending mornings and evenings in (learning and imparting) knowledge is not Jihaad." (5) Hadhrat Rajaa bin Hayaat reports that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa 8 G W j said, "Knowledge is derived from studies." (6) (1) Abu Nu'aym in his Hi&a(Vol.l Pg.213).

(2) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vol.1 Pg.222). (3) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vo1.l Pg.222). (4) Ibn Abdul Birr In his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol. l Pg.32). (5) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.1 Pg.31). (6) Ibn Abdul Birr in his faami Bayaanil Ilm (Vo1.l Pg.lOO).

THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @%&!&> (Vol-3) The Encouragement Hadhrat Abu Dharr !&%2iwj and Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah %$Wi!2j gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Abu Dharr %WBG and Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah !3%5W both said, "Learning even a single chapter of knowledge is more beloved to me than a thousand Rakaahs of Nafl salaah." They also narrate that Rasulullaah @i% said, "If death comes to someone studying the knowledge of Deen when he is still studying, he dies as a martyr." (') Another narration states that they stated, "Learning even a single chapter of knowledge is more beloved to me than a thousand Rakaahs of Nafl salaah, regardless of whether the knowledge is practised upon or not." (2) The Encouragement Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Ali Azdi reports that when he once asked Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas - about Jihaad, the Sahabi iWGW replied by saying, "Should I not tell you about something that is better than Jihaad? It is that you go to the Masjid and teach the Qur'aan, Fiqh or the Sunnah." (3) Hadhrat Ali Azdi reports that he once asked Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 4 ? 2 i about Jihaad. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas WW replied by saying, "Should I not tell you about something that is better than Jihaad? It is that you build a Masjid and then teach the Qur'aan, the Sunnah of Rasulullaah @$% and Deeni Fiqh." (4) Another narration states that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas said, "Everything seeks forgiveness for the one who teaches people what is good, even the fish in the oceans." (5) The Encouragement Hadhrat Safwaan bin Assaal %%&@2 gave Towards Knowledge Hadhrat Zirr bin Hubaysh reports that when he went to Hadhrat Safwaan bin Assaal !&w one morning, Hadhrat Safwaan % , W j asked, "What brings you here this morning, 0 Zirr?" "I have come in search of knowledge," Hadhrat Zirr replied. Hadhrat ~afwaan %,- remarked, "Begin your mornings as either an Aalirn or a student of Deen, but never as anyone'else." (6) Another narration states that Hadhrat Safwaan bin Assaal WBWj said, 'Whoever leaves home in search of knowledge should know that the angels spread out their wings for the student and the Aalim of Deen." (7) (I) Bazzaar and Tabraani, as quoted in Targheeb waL Tarheeb (Vol. l Pg.61).

(2) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.1 Pg.25). (3) Ibn Zanjway, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal(Vol.5 Pg.230). (4) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaarni ~ a ~ a a h l Ilm (Vo1.l Pg.62). (5) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.1 Pg.124). (6) Tabraani in his Awsat.

Haythami (Vol.1 Pg.122) has commented on the chain of narrators. (7) Tabraani in his Kabeef Haytharni (Vol. l Pg. 123) has commented on the chain of narrators. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @,@&3 (Vol-3) The Fervour that the Sahabah @L%B% had for Knowledge The Statement Hadhrat Mu'aadh ~ , G w Made on his deathbed about his Fervour for Knowledge When he was on his deathbed, Hadhrat Mu'aadh bin Jabal - asked the people to see whether dawn had broken. When they reported that it had not yet come, he again sent them to see. After this happened several times, they eventually reported to.him that dawn had broken.

To this, he said, "I seek Allaah's protection from the night followed by a morning that takes one to Jahannam. I welcome death with open arms. It is that long absent visitor and a friend in need. 0 Allaah! While I had always been afraid of You, today I long to meet You. 0 Allaah! You know well that I never loved this world or to live long here to dig canals or to plant trees.

I loved it only for the thirst in the extreme afternoon heat (when fasting), for enduring times of hardship and to sit on my knees when associating with the Ulema in gatherings of knowledge." ('I The Fewour that Hadhrat Abu Dardaa %~~ had for Knowledge Hadhrat Abu Dardaa 9UW once said, "Had it not been for three things, 1 would have loved to be no longer in this world. When asked what the three things were, Hadhrat Abu Dardaa - said, " (The first is)Placing my head on the ground before my Creator in Sajdah during the hours of day and night so that it is sent ahead (as rewards) for my (true) life (in the AakhTEh+-(The second is) Enduring thirst during hot afternoons (while fasting) and (the thira is) sitting with people who choose their speech as carefully as you choose your fruit." The narration continues further. The Fervour that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas BG5mj had for Acquiring Knowledge Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas W@!2i says, "When Rasulullaah @% passed away, I said to an Ansaari friend of mine, 'The Sahabah are plenty in number. Come. Let us learn from them.' 'I am astonished at you, 0 Ibn Abbaas!' he said, 'Do you think that people will need you (to learn from) when so many of Rasulullaah W ' s senior Sahabah i@GWS are amongst them?' I left that as it were and proceeded to learn from the companions o f sulullaah k%#.

When I heard that a Hadith was narrated by someone, I would go to his door and if he was having his siesta, I would roll up my shawl there and use it as a pillow. (As a I waited there) The wind would blow sand on me and when the man came out, he would ask, 'What brings you here, 0 cousin of Rasulullaah &%!? Why did you not send for me and I would have come to you?' I would then say to him, 'No. It (I) Abu Nu'aym in his Hi&a (Vol.1 Pg.239). Ibn Abdul Birr has also reported the narration in his Jaami Bayaanil llm (Vol.1 Pg.51).

THE LIVES OF THE SAhilBflH @,@&2 (Vol-3) is I who should be coming to you.' I would then ask him about the Hadith. My Ansaari friend happened to live to the time when he saw people gathering around me to learn and would say, 'He has been a much smarter youngster than I."'(') Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 4-j says, "When the various cities were being conquered (by the Muslims) and people started focussing their attention towards the things of this world, I started focussing my attention on Hadhrat Umar Ww." It is because of this that most of the Ahadeeth narrated by Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ?3!%%5 are from Hadhrat Umar ?3E&.(2) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah Fervour for knowledge Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah wWj narrates, "Rasulullaah @% once said to me. 'Are you not going to ask me for a share of the booty as your companions are asking me?' I replied, 'All I ask of you is to teach me that which Allaah has taught you.' I then spread out the striped shawl I was wearing between us. In fact, I can even picture seeing the lice crawling on it. Rasulullaah %@& then narrated Ahadeeth to me and when I had heard everything, he told me to pick up the shawl and wear it (which I did).

Thereafter, I have never forgotten even a single letter of what Rasulullaah @$% had narrated to me." (3) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah once said, "People say that Abu Hurayrah narrates plenty of Ahadeeth! It is with-Allaah that we have an appointment (and He will judge). People ask why the Muhaajireen and ~ n s a a r do not narrate as many Ahadeeth as Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah -! While trade in the marketplaces occupied my Muhaajireen brothers and commitments to their properties occupied my Ansaar brothers, I was a poor man who stuck close to Rasulullaah @?% s o that my belly could be filled. I would therefore be present (with Rasulullaah m) when they were not.

I also remembered much when they had forgotten. Rasulullaah @% one day said, 'If any of you spreads out a cloth until I finish speaking and then holds it close to his chest, he will never forget anything that I say.' I therefore spread out my striped shawl because I had nothing else (to spread out). After Rasulullaah @@ had finished speaking, I put it to my chest. I swear by the Being Who sent Rasulullaah f%'@ with the truth that from that day to this, I have never forgotten anything Rasulullaah s@ said. By Allaah!

Had it not been for two verses of the Qur'aan, I would never have narrated anything to you people. (The verses are): (I) Haakim in his Mustadrak (Vol.1 Pg.106), reporting from reliable sources a s confirmed by Dhahabi. Daarmi and Haarith in his Masaaneed have reported a similar narration, as quoted in Isaabah (Vo1.2 Pg.331). Tabraani has also reported the narration from reliable sources as confirmed by Haythami (Vo1.9 Pg.277). A similar narration has also been reported by Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami (Vol.1 Pg.85) and by Ibn Sa'd (Vo1.4 Pg.182).

(2) Bazzaar, reporting from reliable sources as confirmed by Haythami (Vol.1 Pg. 161). (3) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vol. 1 Pg.381). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @,m> (Vol-3) Certainly those who hide (from people) the clear things and guidance which We have revealed after We had explained it to them in the Book for the people; such people (those who hide these things) are cursed by Allaah and by all those who (are commanded to) curse (such as the angels, humans, Jinn, animals). (This applies to all such people) Except those who repent, correct (the wrong they did) and clarify (what they hid). These are the ones whom I will forgive, for verily I am The Greatest Acceptor of repentance, The Most Merciful. {Surah Baqarah, verses 159, 160)(11 Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah B,Gw once said, "People complain that Abu Hurayrah narrates too many Ahadeeth.

I was a person who stuck with Rasulullaah @% to have my belly filled because it was a time when I was unable to eat leavened bread, wear silk or have slaves in attendance. Because of extreme hunger, I would press my stomach against stones (so that the coolness of the stones would alleviate the burn of the hunger).I would ask a person to recite a verse of the Qur'aan for me although I knew it only so that (as we engaged in discussion) he may (offer to) take me home for meals. The person who treated the poor best was Ja'far bin Abi Taalib ?&GW3. He would take us home and feed us everything he had in his house. In fact, he would even take out for us a (honey or butter) container that was empty, wipe out whatever remained (stuck to the sides and bottom) and then give this to us to suck." (2) The True Meaning of Knowledge and what the Word Knowledge Refers to when Used in a General Context Narrations from Rasulullaah &%k!

Concerning the True Meaning of Knowledge Hadhrat Abu Moosa Ash'ari B,m narrates that Rasulullaah @$% said, "The example of the guidance and knowledge that Allaah has sent me with is like a drenching rain that falls on a particular piece of ground. While a part of the ground is fertile and absorbs the water to grow grass and an abundance of vegetation, another portion of the ground is hard and holds the water. However, Allaah still allows it to benefit people because they drink from it, give their animals to drink from it and also irrigate their fields with it. The rain also falls on another portion of the ground that consists of a rocky terrain which neither holds the water nor grows any grass. Such is the example of a person who has a deep understanding of the Deen of Allaah.

That which Allaah has sent me with benefits him, because of which he becomes knowledgeable and teaches others as well. It is also the example of the person who pays no heed to it and refuses to accept it." (3) (1) Bukhaari (Vol. 1 Pg.316). (2) Bukhaari, as quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb(Vol.5 Pg.175). (3) Bukhaari and Muslim, as quoted in Mishkaatul Masaabeeh (Pg.20). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH s,w5 (Vol-3) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood $B&Wj narrates that Rasulullaah @?@ said, "Every Nabi 6@.!% that Allaah has sent before had close friends and companions who adopted his ways and obeyed his instructions.

However, there came after them generations who did not practise what they preached and who did what they were not instructed to do. Whoever resists them physicall? is a Mu'min, whoever resists them verbally is also a Mu'min and whoever resists them by heart (by disapproving of what they do) is also a Mu'min. After these (three categories of people) there remains none with even a mustard geed of Imaan." ('I Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Amr $B&W; reports that Rasulullaah @%$ said, "Knowledge is of three types; explicit verses of the Qur'aan, concrete Ahadeeth (with authenticity that is beyond doubt) and injunctions of the same standing (/jrnaa(') and ~ i y a a s ( ~ ) that is beyond doubt). Everything apart from this is extra (it is not compu1sory to learn)." (4) Hadhrat Amr bin Auf - reports that Rasulullaah @@$ said, "I have left with you two factors that you will never go astray as long as you hbld fast to them. They are the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of your Nabi @%.I'(~) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah !B!Z+%% reports that Rasulullaah @% once entered the Masjid where he found the people gathered around a man.

"What is happening?" Rasulullaah @%$ asked. "0 Rasulullaah w!" the Sahabah i@W&% replied, "He is an Allaamah." "What is an Allaamah?" Rasulullaah @%# enquired. The Sahabah @SW said, "Someone who knows Arabic better than anyone else and also has the most knowledge of poetry and the differences between the Arabs." Rasulullaah @%$ remarked, "That is knowledge that does not benefit a person and no harm will be done to remain ignorant of it." (6) The Statements of Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar B,G&> and Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 8.GWj Concerning the real meaning of Knowledge Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar !&2!%%; once said, "Knowledge is in three things; the talking book (the Qur'aan), the perpetual Sunnah and to say 'I do not know' (when one does not know something)." (7) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas - said, "Knowledge is really in the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of Rasulullaah @%$. Based on personal opinion, if anyone says anything other than this, I cannot say whether he will find it included amongst his good deeds or amongst his sins." (8) Hadhrat Mujaahid says, "Hadhrat ~bdullaah bin Abbaas - was once (1) Muslim, as quoted in Mishkaatul Masaabeeh (Pg.21). (2) Consensus of authorities in lslaamic jurisprudence.

(3) The sound Sharee analytical deduction of accepted Muslim jurists. (4) Abu Dawood and Ibn Maajah, as quoted in Mishkaatul Masaabeeh (Pg.27). Ibn Abdul Birr has reported a similar narration in his Jaami (Vol.2 Pg.23). (5) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.2 Pg.23). (6) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaam Bayaanil Ilm i (Vo1.2 Pg.23) (7) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaam Bayaanil Ilm i (Vo1.2 Pg.24).

(8) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vo1.2 Pg.26). THE LIVES OF THE S A M B A H @G@@> (Vol-3) performing salaah while Ataa, Tawoos and Ikramah and I, all his students, were sitting together. A man arrived and asked, 'Is there a Mufti amongst you?' 'Ask your question,' I said. He said, 'Every time I urinate, a spurting liquid follows the urine out.' 'Is it the type of liquid from which a child is born?' we asked. When he replied in the affirmative, we ruled that he should take a bath (each time it happened).

The man then turned away saying, 'Innaa Lillaahi wa Innaa IIayhi Raaji'oon'. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas = hastened with his salaah and as soon as he made the Salaam, he said, 'Ikramah! Go bring that man back.' When Ikramah brought him back, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 3 G W j turned to us saying, 'Tell me whether the verdict you gave this man was sourced from the Book of Allaah?' 'No,' we admitted. 'Then was i t sourced from the Sunnah of Rasulullaah @%?' he asked further. When we again conceded that it was not, he asked, 'Then was it from the Sahabah mWj of Rasulullaah @&?' Again we said no.

'Then from who did you learn it?' he asked. 'We derived it from our own judgement,' we replied. To this, he remarked, 'It is for this reason that Rasulullaah &$&% said, 'A single jurist is more difficult for Shaytaan to contend with than a thousand (ignorant) worshippers.' He then turned to the man and asked, 'Tell me. Do you feel any lust in your heart when this happens to you?' 'No, I do not,' the man replied. Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 3i3w asked further, 'Then do you feel any weakness in your body (after it emerges)?' when the man again replied negatively, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 4 - said, 'This happens because of coldness (in the body), so wudu would suffice for you (there is no need to bath)."'(') Reprimanding those who Occupy Themselves with Learning Things that are Contrary to that Which Rasulullaah @& Taught Rasulullaah Reprimands People who did this Hadhrat Amr bin Yahya bin Ja'dah %Xi#&j narrates that when someone brought to Rasulullaah a scripture written on the shoulder blade of an animal, Rasulullaah @% remarked, "It is enough for a person to have himself classified as a fool or a person gone astray just to turn his attention away from what his Nabi a,&$ has brought and to focus it on what another Nabi @& had brought, or to turn his attention to a scripture other than his own." It was then that Allaah 3,GjzG revealed the verse: ( O \ ~ S : ~ + i,,) Is it not sufficient for them that we have revealed a Book (the Qur'aan) to you (0 Rasufuflaah m), which is recited to them? {Surah Ankaboot, verse 5 1 ) (2) (1) Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in Kanzul Ummaal(Vol.5 Pg. 118).

(2) Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami Bayaanil Ilm (Vol.2 Pg.40). THE LIVES OF THE SAhXBAH @,%%&%3 (Vol-3) Hadhrat Umar ~~~ Rebukes a man who Wrote the Scripture of Hadhrat Daaniyaal @& and His Incident with Rasulullaah &!@ Hadhrat Khaalid bin Urfuta narrates that he was with Hadhrat Umar & - j when a man from the Abdul Qais tribe was brought. The man lived in a place called Soos (where Hadhrat Daaniyaal &%L is believed to be buried). When Hadhrat Umar '.,' "". "' S&~&J asked him whether he was a particular person from the Abd tribe, the man replied that he was.

Hadhrat Umar wm then struck him with a staff that he had with him. "0 Ameerul Mu'mineen!" the man cried, "What have I done?" Hadhrat Umar %,Gm told him to sit down and when he did, Hadhrat Umar W , W recited the following: ",Y I @ ~ ~ ~ ~ > ~ k > d ~ l b \ @ > l & l ~ q u ...