21. Nevertheless, what you have in your hands is a masterpiece. Read, re-read,

study, practice and propagate. k H. Elias (Mufti) 14251 2004 THE WVES OF THE SAHABAH (Vd-1) Qur'aanic Verses Concerning Obedience to Allaah /#A . /. dLb&j and His Rasool All praise belongs to Allaah 3,Ui, the Rabb (the Cherisher, the Creator, the Sustainer) of the universe (and whatever it contains), Who is the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful and Master of (all affairs on) the Day of Recompense. (OMlaah i%j3Fl) You Alone do we worship, and You Alone do we ask for help. Guide us to the straight path (the path of Islaam); the path of those whom You have favoured (byguiding them aright) and not the path of.those with whom You are angry, nor the path of those who have gone astray.{Surah Faatiha, verses 1-7) Verily Allaah 3U5i is my Rabb and your Rabb, so worship Him /on& without ascrjbingpartners to Him). {Surah Aal Imraan, verse 5 1 ) a J S ~ . ... J a J . (\,t b \I\ : A Y I i~p) (0 &I . .

JJI LIJ upl dl& ' '. Say (0 Rasulullaah m), "Certainly my Rabb has guided me to the straight path. This (Deen of lslaam) is the secure Deen that is the Deen of Ibraheem 6@$&, which is Haneef (not inclined towards any deviation but is inclined to the straight waj which is the path Maah 3'- sanctions). He (Ibraheem m) was never from the Mushrikeen." Say, "Truly my salaah, all my acts of worship, my life and my death are for Allaah 3,mi, the Rabb of the universe." (Also say, 0 RasuJuJJaah @%) "He (Allaah a,-) has no partner. With this (Towheed) have I been commanded (to adhere to) and 1 am the first of the Muslims."{~urah An'aam, verses 16 1 - 163) +.y, .,,, * .. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @~F&J (Vol-I) 4 1 (0 Muhammad wl) Say, "0 people!

Indeed to all of you (to the entire mankind until the Day of Q~yaamah) I am the Rasool of that Allaah a, Gj$G to Whom belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. There is no Ilaah besides Him and it is He Who gives life and death. So believe in Allaah a, Gj$G and His Rasool (who is) the untutored Nabi who believes in Allaah 3,Gj$G and His words (the Q~rkm). Follow him so that you may be rightly guided (because there is no salvation without [maan and belief in thc Risaalah of RasuJuJJaah @@)."{~urah A'raaf, verse 158) We have sent every Rasool s o that he should be obeyed by the order of Allaah 3,@5G. If only it were that when they (the hypocrites) oppress (wrong) their souls (by referring their disputes to others), they should come to you (0 Muhammad @@) seeking Allaah $,%>$G's forgiveness and then the Rasool (Muhammad w) seeks forgiveness on their behalf, they will then surely find that Allaah 3,Gj$G is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful (AUaah g. Gj$G will forgive them if they obey Him and realise that the judgement of Rasulullaah @@ is absolute).{surah Nisaa, verse 64) 0 you who have Imaan!

Obey Allaah $,Gj$G and His Rasool and do not turn away from him (do not oppose him by listening to evil influences) while you are listening (to the Qurkan and other advices).{surah Anfaal, verse 20) Obey Allaah 3,GjZG and the Rasool @&% so that mercy is shown to you.{Surah Aal Imraan, verse 132) ( t i : J b Y l i ~ ~ ) (0 Obey (the commands of) Allaah 2,%33\;" and His Rasool and do not fall into dispute with each other, for then you will become cowardly (weak) and your strength will be lost. Exercise sabr, for verily Allaah 3,%j$G is with those who exercise sabr. {Surah Anfaal, verse 46) 0 you who have Imaan! Obey Allaah 3,Gj3G, obey the Rasool @@ and those in THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @%&@&3 (Vol-1) command among you (your leaders and authorities in a// Mds). If you dispute regarding any matter, then refer it to Allaah 3,G&GF (find the solution in the Qur'aan) and the Rasool @$% (or find the solution in the Ahaadeeth) if you believe in Allaah $,%i% and the Last Day. This is best (for all) and gives the best result (because you will then not be basing your decisions on your personal opinions,.{Surah Nisaa, verse 591 When the Mu'mineen are called to appear before Allaah 3Pj&GG and His Rasool @@ so that he may pass judgement between them, all they say is, 'We hear and we obey" (they are pleased to accept Rasuluffaah !s judgement). These are the successful ones.

(The succes~ful ones who reach theirgoao are those who obey Allaah 3,@3G and His Rasool @$%, who fear Allaah 3,W&GF and do not disobey Him. {Surah Noor, verse 5 1,521 (07 Li ot i ~ ~ ) (@ Say, "Obey Allaah 3$Gj%G and obey the Rasool w." If they turn away, then the Rasool is responsible only for what he has been entrusted with (passing on the message) and you people are responsible for what you have been entrusted with (for accepting the message). If you obey, you will be rightly guided. The , Rasool is responsible only for clear propagation. Allaah 3GSF has promised those of you who have Imaan and who do good actions that He will definitely make them successors (of the rulers) on earth just as He had made those before them successors. And He will certainly grant (great) strength to the Deen that He has chosen for them and will certainly replace their fear with peace (on condition that) they worship Me and do not ascribe any as partner to Myself. Those who are ungrateful after this are sinful indeed.

Establish salaah, pay zakaah and obey the Rasool @%& (in all matters) so that mercy may be shown to you.{Surah Noor, verses 54-56) THE LIVES OF THE S W A H @g!8&3 (Vol-I) 0 you who have Imaan! Fear Allaah 3,%3G and speak what is right (speak the truth, speak with justice, speak of matters related to Deen and speak everything good, especial& the Dhikr of AIlaah 3,%3G). (Ifyou do this,) Allaah 3,Gj3G will correct (accept) your (good) deeds and forgive you your sins. Whoever obeys Allaah gLS3G has succeeded tremendously.{Surah Ahzaab, verses 70, 71 ) 0 you who have Imaan! Respond (quick& to Allaah 3,%3G and His Rasool when they call you towards that (the injunctions of the Deen) which will give you life (an eterna/ lik of happiness in the Aakhirah). Know that Allaah 3,@3C comes between a man and his heart (because of which no person can have Imaan without AIlaah 3,@3G k permission) and that you shall be gathered before Him (on the Day of Q~yaamah, when you will have to account for your actions). {Surah Anfaal, verse 24) I * I S C ,G,* # , J G , , L cry :UI+ JY iJy) C.)@&&~I .I Y CUI 433 &$ "J~I, CUI 19 2) (\r) Say, "Obey Allaah 3,@3G and the Rasool (Muhammad bypractising the Sunnah)." If they turn away, then (bear in mind that) surely Allaah 3,%3G does not like the Kaafiroon.{Surah Aal Imraan, verse 32) (A. :sUI iJy) Whoever obeys the Rasool @l@ (mhammad w) obeys Allaah 3,@3C (because Rasulullaah @& conveys the message of Nlaah 3,SaG) and whoever turns away, (refusing to accept the message, then 0 Muhammad m, you should not upset yourself because) We have not sent you as a watcher (guard) over them (you will not be questioned for their denial because your responsibility is mere4 to convey the message to the best ofyour ability).{Surah Nisaa, verse 80) Those who obey Allaah 3,%3G and the Rasool @& will be (in the Aakhirah) with those Ambiyaa, "Siddeeqeen", martyrs and righteous ones on whom Allaah 8'@3G has bestowed His bounties.

These are indeed the best of companions. This (companionsh~p of the pious) is a favour from Allaah 3,%5G. Allaah 3,%33G suffices as the Knower (ofeverything).{~urih Nisaa, verses 69, 70) THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @,@&$ (Vol-I) These (laws concerning) are the limits of Allaah. Whoever obeys Allaah 3OjZF and His Rasool m, Allaah $,Gj$G will enter him into Jannaat beneath which rivers flow, where they shall live forever. That is the supreme success (a great achievement). Whoever disobeys Allaah g.

Gj$G and His Rasool @@ and oversteps His limits (/ater dying as a Kaaf?r), Allaah 3,Gj$G shall enter him into the Fire (of Jahannam) where he shall live forever. He shall suffer a disgracing punishment. {Surah Nisaa, verses 13, 14) They ask you (0 Muhammad @&) about the spoils of war (about who will receive what portion of the spoils afier the Battle of Badr). Say, "The spoils of war are for. Allaah a,@$\=.' and His Rasool (for them to distribute it just& among the so/diers). So fear Allaah 3,Gj%\=.', correct your mutual relations and obey Allaah 3.@%\=.' and His Rasool (the Shariah) if you are (true) Mu'mineen." The Mu'mineen are those whose hearts tremble when Allaah 3.Gj$G is mentioned, whose (strength ofl Imaan increases when His Aayaat are recited to them and (as a result, they are those) who trust only in their Rabb. They (the Mu'mineen) are those who establish salaah (perform it with a// its etiquette) and who spend (for Hispleasure) from what We have provided for them.

These are the true Mu'mineen (about whose /maan there can be no doubt). For them shall be elevated ranks by their Rabb (in Jannah), forgiveness and bountiful Sustenance.{Surah Anfaal, verses 1-4) The Mu'mineen men and the Mu'mineen women are supporters (helpers, protectors) of each other. They command (others and each other to do) good, prevent evil, establish salaah, pay zakaah and obey Allaah $*GjZF and His Rasool @$%. These are the ones on whom Allaah 3,@%F shall soon shower mercy. Verily Allaah 3,Gj$F is Mighty, The Wise.{surah Taubah, verse 71 ) THE LIVES OF THE SAIIL~BAH @.Gwj (I/OL-I) Say (0 ~uhammad @@), "If you love Allaah J.Gj3G then follow me (Muhammad e), Allaah J,Gj$G will then love you (He will reward you and grant you numerous material and spiritual blessi~~gs) and forgive your sins. Allaah 3,GGJjg is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful."{surah Aal Imraan, verse 31) There is definitely an excellent example in Allaah 3,GjZG's Rasool @@ for the one who fears Allaah 3.Gj3G and the Last Day, and who remembers Allaah J,GjZG abundantly.{surah Ahzaab, Verse 2 1 ) The booty (wealth) that Allaah granted His Rasool @@ (without a battle being fought) from the people of the villages is for Allaah (to be distributed as Allaah pleases), for the (needs of the) Rasool @@, for the relatives (of Rasulu/laah @@), for the orphans, for the poor and for the travellers so that this wealth may not remain as amassed riches with the wealthy among you (by distributing it in this manner, the wealth is circulated among people so that all may benefit).

Hold fast to what (commands) the Rasool @@ gives you and refrain from what (actions) He prevents you (because whatever he instructs you is from Allaah 3,GjZG). Fear (disobeying) Allaah $.Gj$c, for Allaah J,@$G punishes very severely. {Surah Hashar, verse 7 ) B* ,I. .I Ahaadeeth Concerning Obedience to Rasulullaah w&, Following him and Following the Khulafa @ ~ G W . Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah 9WGj narrates that Rasulullaah @& said, "Whoever obeys me, obeys Allaah 3,Gj2!G and whoever disobeys me, disobeys Allaah 3,G$$G. Whoever obeys my Ameer (whom I have appointed), obeys me and whoever disobeys my Ameer, disobeys me." ( I ) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah 33&+j has also narrated that Rasulullaah said, "Everyone belonging to my Ummah shall enter Jannah except those who refuse (they will not enter Jannah)." "Who are those who refuse?" someone asked. Rasulullaah @g replied, "Those who obey me shall enter Jannah while those who disobey me are the ones who refuse." (2) Hadhrat Jaabir WGwj narrated that a few angels came to Rasulullaah @$$ while he was asleep. Addressing the others, one of the angels said, "There is a similitude for this friend of yours.

Mention this similitude." One of them said, '!But he is asleep." Another responded, "Although his eyes sleep, his heart remains ( I ) Bukhari (2) al-Bukhari, a s narrated in Jaami Vol. 2 Pq. 233 THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH mG&!!&.S (Vol-I) awake." The angels then said, "His likeness is like that of a person who built a house and then prepared a feast there. He then sent a caller to invite people. Whoever accepted the invitation of the caller entered the house and enjoyed the meal. On the other hand, those who did not accept the invitation neither entered the house nor partook of the meal." Some angels then said to the others, "Explain this to him (Rasulullaah w) so that he may understand it." One of them said, "But he is asleep." Another responded, "Although his eyes sleep, his heart remains awake." The angels then explained, "The house is Jannah and the caller is Muhammad &@&. Therefore, whoever obeys Rasulullaah @%, obeys Allaah 3'%3G and whoever disobeys Muhammad w disobeys Allaah 3,%3F. Muhammad @@ sets people apart (those who obey him have obeyed Allaah 3,%3F and will enter Jannah while those who do not obey him have disobeyed Allaah gj@3G and will not enter Jannah).

('I Hadhrat Abu Moosa Ash'ari - has reported that Rasulullaah @&! said, "The likeness of myself and the Deen with which Allaah 3,%5C has sent me is like a person who comes to his people saying, '0 my people! I have personally seen a large army (approaching to attack you) and I am warning you without any ulterior motives. So save yourselves (by leaving the town)! Save yourselves!"' "So a group of his people obeyed him. They left early that evening, travelled calmly and were saved. Another.group of his people regarded the warning as a lie.

They therefore remained in the town and the enemy attacked them early the next morning, utterly destroying them. This is the likeness of those people who accept my word and practise the Deen I have brought and those people who disobey me and who reject the Deen I have brought." (2) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar narrates that Rasulullaah @& said, "Every condition that afflicted the Bani Israa'eel will certainly afflict my Ummah as well (and the similarity of the conditions will be so close that it will be) just as the two soles of a pair of shoes correspond with each other. (Their conditions will be so close that). Even if a person from the Bani Israa'eel committed open incest with his mother, there will be someone from my Ummah who will do the same. Whereas the Bani Israa'eel split into seventy-two groups, my Ummah will split into seventy-three. All these are headed for Jahannam except one." The Sahabah i@GWj asked, "Which group will this be, 0 Rasulullaah w?" '"The one that follows my ways and the ways of my Sahabah ih5-.'I (3) Hadhrat Irbaadh bin Saariya 4%!3&j narrates that once after leading the salaah, Rasulullaah 6%% turned to the Sahabah ih5433W and delivered a lecture that caused their eyes to flow with tears and their hearts to tremble.

Someone-then said, "0 Rasulullaah 6%%! This lecture appears to be a parting advice so do tell us about the things that you wish to emphasise." Rasulullaah @I% said, "I advise (1) al-Bukhari. Daarmi has also narrated a similar Hadith from Hadhrat Rabee'ah Jarashi, as quoted in Mishkaat (pg. 21). (2) Bukhari and Muslim. (3) Tirmidhi. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ~~~~ (Vol-1) you to fear Allaah 3,G>$G and to listen to and obey (your Ameer) even if he is an ~byssinian slave because those coming after me shall witness tremendous disputes.

(During these times) You should keep practising my Sunnah and the sunnah of my right!y guided Khulafa (the Khulafa Raashideen). Hold fast to this and bite hard into it. Beware of innovations (in the Deen) because every innovation (in Deen) is a Bid'ah and every pid'ah leads to deviation." ('I ~ a d h r a t Umar B.GW+ narrates that Rasulullaah @?% said, "When I asked my Rabb about the disputes to arise between my Sahabah @,GW after me, He sent revelation to me saying, ' 0 Muhammad! Your Sahabah @,Gw are like stars in My opinion. While all the stars are radiant, the radiance of some exceed the radiance of others. When their opinions differ concerning a matter, a person following the opinion of any of them will be rightly guided."' Rasulullaah added, "My Sahabah @i3Ew are like stars.

You will be rightly guided by following any one of them." (2) Hadhrat Hudhayfa B E w narrates that Rasulullaah @% said, "I do not know for how much longer I shall be with you." Indicating towards Hadhrat Abu Bakr @,Gm and Hadhrat Umar Rasulullaah &?@ added, "Follow these two after me, adopt the lifestyle of Ammaar B,Gw and believe whatever Ibn Masfood BG#&j' tells you." Hadhrat Bilaal bin Haarith @Wj narrates that Rasulullaah k%% said, "The person who revives a Sunnah of mine that had died after me shall receive the rewards of all those who practise it without any of their rewards being diminished. (On the other hand). The person who introduces any misleading ways with which Allaah 3,G3%G and His Rasool are displeased with, he shall bear the sins of all those who practise it without their sins being diminished." (3) Hadhrat Amr bin Awf ~ , - narrates that Rasulullaah &%% said, "The Deen will recoil to Hijaaz just as a snake recoils towards its hole. The Deen will then make its home in Hijaaz just as a mountain goat makes its home on the peaks of mountains. The Deen started off as a stranger and will again become a stranger as it started off, so glad tidings for (those who are regarded as) the strangers (because of their association with the Deen). They are the ones who will rectify the distortions that people had introduced into my Sunnah." (4) Hadhrat Anas W,Gw reports that Rasulullaah @?@ addressed him saying, "0 my son!

If you are able to pass the day and night without any ill-feelings in your heart for anyone, then do so." Rasulullaah @@ then added, "0 my son! This (practice) is among my Sunnah. Whoever loves my Sunnah loves me and whoever loves me shall be with me in Jannah." (5) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas B,w narrates that ~ a s u l u l l a a h ~ ~ said, "Whoever holds fast to my Sunnah during times when my Ummah have been (1) Tirmidhi and Abu Dawood (2) Razeen, as quoted in Jam'ul Fawaa'id Vol. 2 Pg. 201 (3) Tirmidhi. Ibn Maajah has also reported a similar Hadith from Katheer bin Abdillaah ibn Umar, who narrates from his father and grandfather. (4) Tirmidhi. (5) Tirmidhi. 4 8 THE LIVES OF THE S A W A H @Gw (Vol-I) corrupted shall have the rewards of a hundred martyrs." Bayhaqi and Tabraani have reported this Hadith from Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah W%%, stating that the reward will be that of one martyr.

Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah ~ , % W j has reported that Rasulullaah said, "The person who holds fast to my Sunnah during times when my Ummah is corrupted shall have the reward of a martyr." (2) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah 3 , G w j narrates that Rasulullaah @!@ said, "The person who holds fast to my Sunnah during times when my Ummah will be divided shall be like a person holding a burning charcoal." (3) Hadhrat Anas %X5w narrates that Rasulullaah @$% said, "The person who turns away from my Sunnah has no affiliation with me." (4) Ibn Asaakir has narrated this Hadith from ~adhr'at Abdullaah bin Umar %Gw, which begins with the words, "The person who practises my Sunnah has an affiliation with me." Hadhrat Aa'isha @I%@&+ narrates that Rasulullaah @?8 said, "The one who holds fast to the Sunnah shall enter Jannah." (5) Hadhrat Anas @G5Wj reports that Rasulullaah @@ said, "Whoever revives my Sunnah, has love for me and whoever loves me shall be with me in Jannah." (6) Qur'aanic Verses Concerning Rasulullaah and the Sahabah '&Eb35 4 . ,, # Y ' .#w.* 9 S . J . # # j.k h\ LK, &I 365 $1 2s; $5 *&J p! b\ ~ K L ) (\) . . I. ' ' (t. : + b y \ l ~ p . 4 (0 l q 6 $3 Muhammad @$% is not the father of any men among you, but he is Allaah 3,@3F's Rasool and the seal of all Arnbiyaa (after whom there shall neyer come another Nabi). Allaah g, Gj$\r' has knowledge of all things. {Surah Ahzaab, verse 40) (to 3\r' by His command and an illuminating lantern (who lit up the world filled with the darkness of kufi and Shirk with the light of Imaan and also produced the Sahabah @,Gbi%k adguiding stars to guide people after him). {Surah Ahzaab, verses 45.46) (1) Targheeb wat Tarheeb Vol. 1 Pg. 44. (2) Tabraani and Abu Nu'aym in "Hilya" (3) Kanzul Ummaal Vol. 1 Pg. 47.

(4) Muslim. (5) Daar Qutni. (6) Sajzi. THE LIVES OF THE SRHABAH (Vol-I) verily We have sent you (0 Rasulullaah w) as a witness (to testiq to the actions ofpeople on the Day of Qiyaamah), a carrier of good news (to the Mulmineen) and a warner (to the Kuffaar) so that you (Opeople) believe in Allaah a,l%%, believe in His Rasool, assist Him (His Deen), revere Him and glorify Him morning and evening. {Surah Fatah, verses 8,9) I ' I , undoubtedly We have sent you (0 Muhammad =) with the truth, as a carrier of good news (to those who believe you) and as a warner (to those who refuse to believe you). You will not be questioned about the people of the Blaze (about those in the fire of Jahannam. Allaah 8,@256 shad not ask you why they did not believe because your duty is to give them the message and not to force them to believe).{Surah Baqara, verse 1 19) 4 , u' I b I , ' 5 (Ti $b ijp) (05; .

I L&%G I Y! $3 ;I) I$+> 1% $b I &L3G1) (0) Verily We have sent you (0 RasuMaah =)with the truth, as a carrier of good news (to the Mulmineen) and (as) a warner (to the Kuffaar). (Your duty is nothing strange to people because) A warner (who cautioned people about the consequences ofkufr) passed in every nation.{Surah Faatir, verse 24) (YA :b 6 ) ~ ) We have sent you (0 ~uhammad @@) to the whole of mankind only as a carrier of good news and a warner (and not as one who has to force people to accept Imaan). However, most people (the KufXaaar) do not know (that you are Allaah m C 3 true Nab4.{Surah Saba, verse 28) 1 6 * * I > u' ~ , , l l . I (07 :&+J\ i ~ p ) (0 $+ j , Yl I &,I b3) (v) We have sent you (0 Rasulullaah @%%) only as a carrier of good news (to the Mu'mineen) and a warner (to the Kuffaaar).{Surah Furqaan, verse 56) We have sent you (0 Muhammad w) as a mercy to the universe (to show mercy towards mankind, /inn and creation at large by guiding them to the path ofsa/vation).{Surah Ambiyaa, verse 107) It is He (Allaah 8,@256) Who sent His Rasool with guidance and the true religion (of Islaam) so that He may make it overcome all other religions even 7 H E LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @&- (Vol-I) though the Mushrikeen detest it.{Surah ~aubah, verse 33) (Do not also forget) The day when We shall raise against every nation a witness from their midst (the Ambiyaa of every nation who will testify against the Kuffaar of their nations), and We shall make you (0 ~uhammad w) witness over them (to testify in favour of the Amb~yaa that they did fulfil their responsibilities). We have revealed the Book (the Qur'aan) to you, that explains all thingsdo you (including the fact that all the Amblyaa fulfiled their duties) and which is (a means 04 guidance, a mercy and good news (offorgiveness, rewards andlannah) for those who submit (the Muslims).{Surah Nahl, verse 89) (\tr 4jy) Thus (just as Ailaah 3,WF has guided the Muslims to the straight path) We have made you (the Ummah of Rasulullaah w) such a group that is moderate in nature (free from excesses and shortcomings) so that you may be witnesses (on the Day of Qiyaamah) over people and the messenger (Rasutullaah w) a witness over you (When the nations of previous prophets will deny that their prophets preached the truth to them, the prophets will call for the Ummah of Rasulullaah as witnesses for them. When the ummah of RasuLul/ah @@ testify that the prophets were truthful, they will be asked how they know' this when they were not present during the times of the others.

To this, the Ummah of Rasulullaah @@ will say that Rasulullaah had informed them. Rasulullaah will then maki it clear that his Ummah are truthful).{Surah Baqara, verse 143) Allaah 8,WF has certainly reveared a .Reminder (the Qur'aan) to you (so thatyou guard yourselves fmm making the same mistakes that the previous nadons made). And (-4lliah 3,WF has also sent toyou) a Rasool &%ifwho recites Allaah 3,@3G1s clear Aayaat (verses of the Qur'aan) to you to remove the Mu'mineen who do good deeds from darkness (sin, ignorance, kufr) and to bring them into light (obedience, knowledge, Imaan). Whoever believes in Allaah aWF and does good deeds, Allaah 3,WG shall enter him into Jannaat beneath which rivers flow. There they shall live forever. Allaah 3,@3F has appointed a most excellent provision for him.{Surah Talaaq, verses 10, 11) THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH mL-5 (vol-1) 5 1 '3: J J J Y , J .

(\it :c)I+ JI ijy) (0 & $2 2 ,JJ & $K ~5 ;ri;j~; *I ,++ Allaah C%$5$G has certainly favoured the Mu'mineen by sending in their midst a ~ a s o o l (Rasulullaah @@!) from among them who recites to them His verses (of the Qur'aan), purifies them (from corrupt beliefs, Shirk, disobedience) and teaches them the Book (Qur'aan) and wisdom (the Sunnah). There is no doubt that these people were in open error before this (before the coming of Rasulullaah w).{~urah Aal Imraan, verse 164) (\0Y c\o\ :@&I ijy) In a similar manner (as part of Our hvour to you) We have (also) sent to you a Rasool (messenger) from among yourselves (Muhammad w) who recites to you Our verses (of the Qur'aan); purifies you (fiom Shirk); teaches you the Book (Qur'aan) and wisdom (the teachings of the Qurhan); and teaches you what you knew not (heperfects both your knowledge andyour actions). So think of Me (by performing salaah, making Dhikr, abiding by the Qur'aan and in all other matters) and I will think of you (by rewarding you and fulfilling your needs). Be grateful to Me (by obeying Me) and do not be ungrateful (by disobeying Me). {Surah Baqara, verses 15 1 , 152) Undoubtedly a Rasool -from yourselves has come to you (someone whose lineage, morals, manners and integrityyou know welJ. The difficulties that afflict you are very distressing to him. He is anxious for (good to come to) you and extremely forgiving and merciful towards the Mu'mineen. {surah Taubah, verse 128) d J .A 3 G,I >?t;.r 441, ?;lr 41 J@ L dl 0) &*?I +W .

I,, I If you do not assist him (~asulullaah w), then indeed Allaah had assisted him when the Kuffaar drove him out (ofMakkah). He was the second of the two (the other Being his bosom fiend Abu Bakr B,MG) when they were (hiding from the Kuflaaarj in the cave (outside Makkah) and he (Rasufuffaah m) told his companion (Abu Bakr %W when the Kuffar were on the verge,of capturing them), "Do not grieve (do not fear for my safety). Verily Allaah 3,@5i is with us (and He will protect us from the Kuffaar)." So Allaah 3L@%G caused His tranquillity (serenity, mercy andpeace) to descend on him, assisted him (on various occasions) with an army '(of angels and other creation) that you had not seen. And (Maah a,@%G) placed the word of the Kuffaar (the call to Shirk) at the very bottom while the word of Allaah 3,L%3'CY' (the Kafimah) is right at the top. Allaah aj@3G is Mighty, The Wise. (Therefore, if any person refuses to assist Rasulullaah @@ and Islaam, his assistance is not needed because Maah a,@%\;;; shall assist them as He did before.){Surah Taubah, verse 40) (79 :@I iJp.4) Muhammad is Allaah iY,WP's Rasool and those with him (the Sahabah &W&j) are stern against the Kuffaar and (yet) compassionate among themselves.

You will see them sometimes bowing (in Ruku), sometimes prostrating (in Sajdah, always) seeking Allaah 8,m's bounty and His pleasure. Their hallmark (by which they are recognisea is on their faces because of the effect of prostration (referring to the illumination and humility apparent on their faces). This is their description in the Torah. Their description in the lnjeel (Bible) is like that of a plant that sprouts its shoots and strengthens it, after which it becomes thick and stands on its own stem, pleasing the farmer. (Allaah C!,@%F has nurtured the Sahabah @3@&!2j in this manneg So that the Kuffaar may be enraged by them (because of their animosity for Islaam and for the Sahabah $i%&%). Allaah P,@%P has promised forgiveness and a grand reward for those of them who have Imaan and who do good deeds.{surah Fatah, verse 29) THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH mg$&3 (Vol-1) 61 J,,J.

J J . J . *yJY JJJ + J ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ A ~ ~ ~ w . , . . . I shall soon (in the Aakhirah) ordain it (Mymercy) for those who adopt Taqwa, who pay zakaah, who believe in My Aayaat and who follow the Rasool (who is also) the untutored Nabi (Muhammad @%, about) whom they find (his name and descr~ption) written in the Torah and the Injeel (both of which they have) with them. He (Muhammad w) instructs them to do good, prevents (forbids) them from evil, permits pure things for them (which was forbidden in the previous religions), forbids them from impure things (such as carrion, blood, etc) and removes from them the burden and shackles (the stern laws) that were (binding) upon them (such as cutting offthe portion of a garment that is impure). So the successful ones are certainly those who believe in him, honour him, assist him and follow the light (the Qur'aan) revealed with him."{~urah A'raaf, verse 156, 157) Verses of the Qw'aanconcerningthe Sahabah@Ew J GE .,A E L ,r,), , , . 6 . 6 (\\"\\\Y :+I ~ ~ ) (@>+)I +I41 l,a &I ;-b;lS +b , J 61 Yl I . . . Allaah 3,%5P has certainly turned in mercy towards the Nabi @% and towards the Muhaajireen and the Ansaar who followed him in the hour of difficulty (to Tabook) after the hearts of some of them were almost shaken (causing them to hesitate).

Without doubt, He is Most Compassionate and Most Merciful towards them (by blessing them with steadhstness and devotion). And Allaah 3,GSG (has also turned in mercy towards) the three (Sahaaba PB!XM.j, name& Murara bin Rabee %%4&35, Ka'b bin Maalik W3W5 and Hilaal bin umawah ~,Wj) whose matter (forgiveness for not marching to Tabook) was postponed (for fifty days) until the earth narrowed for them despite its vastness (and they could find no place to hide themselves), their own souls narrowed for them (they became frustrated with themselves) and they were convinced that there was no safety from Allaah 8,%$G except (in turning) towards Him. Then Allaah aa%$\r' turned towards them (in mercy) so that they (could) turn to Him (in repentance). Indeed Allaah a,%$\;*" is Most Pardoning, Most Merciful.{Surah Taubah, verse 1 17, 1 18) 5 4 T H E LIVES OF T H E SAHABAH '@&%% (Vol-1) Allaah 3,@3G was well pleased with the Mu'mineen (the Sahabah %C@!%W) when they pledged their allegiance to you (0 Rasulullaah @@) beneath the tree (at Hudayb~fiah). Allaah ~,G%bG knew what was in their hearts, sent tranquillity to them (causing them to accept Allaah 3WG 3 commands without hesitation) and rewarded them with a victory close at hand (when they conquered aaybar soon after signing the Treaty of Hudaybljyah) and (Allaah 8,@3G will also reward them with) abundant spoils of war that they will take (after conquering aaybar). Allaah a8%5G is always ~ i ~ h i ~ , Wise.{surah Fatah, verse 18, 19) ( \ a * :+$I ip) Allaah gL@3G is pleased with the first to lead the way from the Muhaajireen, the Ansaar, and those who followed them with sincerity and they are pleased with Him.

He has prepared for them such Jannaat beneath which rivers flow, in which they shall live forever. This is the ultimate success. (This verse clearly illustrates the great status of the Sahabah i@UW and it will therefore be wrong to revile them.){Surah Taubah, verse 100) (A share of the booty received without a fight is also reserved) For the poor Muhaajireen who were removed from their homes and their possessions. They seek Allaah 3,@%G's grace and pleasure and assist Allaah 8,WG and His Rasool &%%. These are the ones who are true (in their claim to [maan). (Part of this booty is also foij Those (the Ansaar) who adopted the place (Madinah) as their home before them (before the Muhaajireen) and (had adopted) Imaan.

They (the Ansaar) love those who migrate to them (the Muhaajireen) and find no want ~ealousy or en@ in their hearts for what they (the Muhaajireen) are given. They (the Ansaar) prefer (others) above themselves (they prefer to give others) even though they are themselves in need (of the things they give). (Like the Ansaa4) Those who are saved from the miserliness (andgreed) of the soul are really the successful ones (who iyfl attain salvation).{Surah Hashar, verses 8,9) THE LIVES OF T H E S A W A H 'B)%&> (vol-~) Allaah 8,!355F has revealed the most superb articulation; a Book (the Qur'aan) with subject matter of similar import (to reinforce teachings), which is often repeated (by people throuihout the world and throughout time). The bodies of those who fear their Rabb shiver with it, after which their hearts and bodies soften to Allaah 8,!35$F's remembrance (causing them to do good deeds). This is Allaah 3,WC's guidance, with which He guides whoever He wills. There can be no guide for the one whom Allaah $,E%O sendsastray.{Surah Zumar, verse 23) . ,J. ,. ,J .

",I.. ,JCG ,./.,. " I ~ & ~ ~ I L ; ~ ~ ; ~v li a :.dl i~y) (0 o+g +K & $5 yl, I only those people (trulyl believe in Out Aayaat who, when they are reminded about them, fall in prostration (out of fear and humility), glorify the praises of their Rabb and do not behave arrogantly. (These people are such that) Their sides part from their beds (they wake up for Tahaj~ud salaah), they make dua to their Rabb in fear (for His punishment) and (having) hope (in His mercy), and they spend (in charity) from what we have provided for them. No soul knows what pleasures are hidden for him (in Jannah) as a reward for the deeds he carries out. {Surah Sajdah, verses 15-1 7) Whatever you have been given is merely an article of this wo;ldly life (something to use temporarily). (On the other hand) What (reward) is with Allaah $,WP (in exchange foryour good deeds) is better (than everything of this world) and more lasting (eternal) for those who have Imaan, who trust (only) in their Rabb (to provide for them and to protect them) who abstain from major sins and immoral behaviour and who forgive when they are angry (without taking revenge). (These people who shall have Allaah 3,%5F k eternal reward are) Those who respond to (the commands 04 their Rabb, who establish salaah, whose affairs are (decided) by mutual consultation (counsel) between themselves, and who spend (in charip) from what We have provided for them.

And (they are also) those who retaliate (on&) when aggression affects them (without being aggressors).{surah Shura, verses 36-39) THE LIVES OF THE SAHRBAH @g!@!& (Vol-1) Among the Mu'mineen there are men who are true to the pledge they vow to Allaah 3,%3G (that they will fight in Jihaad until they die). Of them is he who has fulfilled his pledge (and has been martyred), and he who is .waiting (to be martyred). They have not changed (their resolve) in the least (unlike the Munaafiqeen). (Such situations of trial and hardship take place) So that Allaah $,Gj3G may reward the truthful (those who are true in their Imaan) for their truthfulness and punish the hypocrites if He wills or forgive them (when they repent sincere&). Allaah 3,@$F is always Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.{Surah Ahzaab, verses 23,24) (Is the Kaafir better) Or the person who is engrossed in (Maah 3,@$G 5) worship throughout, the hours of the night, prostrating and standing, fearing the Aakhirah and hoping for the mercy of his Rabb? Say, "Can those with (spiritual) knowledge be equal to thosewhodonot have knowledge?

Only those with (spiritual) intelligence will heed (good advice)."{Surah zurnar, verse 9 ) Mention of Rasulullaah and the Sahabah $, ., //,'a , , . the0Divine Scriptures that Came Before the Ur'aan Hadhrat Ataa bin Yasaar NiX5&lGj reports that once when he met Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Amr bin A1 Aas Bern, he asked him, "Tell me about.the description of Rasulullaah in the Torah." Hadbrat Abdullaah bin Amr bin Al Aas BGw replied, "Alright. I swear by Allaah 3,%3F that the Torah describes him just as the Qur'aan does. (It says) '0 Nabi @%#! Verily We have sent you as a witness, a giver of glad tidings, a Warner and a protection for the illiterate nation (the Arabs). You are My servant and My Rasool and I have named you Mutawakkil (One who relies on AIIaah 3,WZG only). You are neither ill-tempered, hard-hearted nor one who shouts in the marketplace.

You do not resist ,evil with evil, but rather forgives and overlooks.' (The Torah continues to sag,) Allaah 3%3G shall never take him (Rasulullaah k%%) from the world untjl people straighten their crooked religion by saying, 'Laa Ilaaha Illalaah' ('There: is none worthy of worship but Allaah 8,S5F1). By him shall Allaah 3,%3F open blind eyes, deaf ears and veiled hearts."' ('1 Hadhrat Wahab bin Munabbih 8WbYGij narrates that Allaah 3,WG sent the (1) Ahmad. Bukhari has also reported a similar narration from Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood B,Wj. Bayhaqi has also rep0rted.a similar narration from Ibn Salaam with the words, "Until he straightens the crooked religion." Ibn Is'haaq has also reported a similar narration from Ka'b Ahbaar, as did Bayhaqi do so in brief from Hadhrat Aa'isha l@[email protected]. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @@%% (VolI ) 5 7; following revelation to Hadhrat Dawood &&k in the Zaboor, "0 Dawood! There shall soon come after you a Nabi whose name will be Ahmad and Muhammad.

He shall be truthful and a leader and I shall never be angry with him. I have forgiven all his errors even before he can commit them. His Ummah shall be showered with My mercy. I shall grant them such Nawaafil (optional) that I have granted only to the Ambiyaa and I shall make compulsory for them such ~araa'idh that I have made compulsory only for the Arnbiyaa and the Rasul. They will eventually come to me on the Day o'f Qiyaamah shining with the same light that shines from the Ambiyaa." Allaah 3,@3G then said to Dawood w, "0 Dawood! I have granted superiority to Muhammad @$% and his Ummah over all other nations." ('I Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Amr s!i$@j once asked Hadhrat Ka'b %E&j to describe to Rasulullaah @&$ and his Ummah to him. .Hadhrat Ka'b ~ , G w said, "I have found them (described as follows) in Allaah 3,@5F1s book (the Torah): Verily Ahmad and his Ummah shall praise Allaah 3,%3G abundantly who will praise Allaah 3,%5I;Y' (by saying '%/ Hamdu Liflaah') during favourable and adverse conditions.

They will exalt Allaah 3,@3C (by saying 'Xllaahu Akbar') when ascending an incline and glorify Him (by saying 'Subhaa Nallaah'j when descending from a raised place. Their call (the Adhaan) shall resound in the skies and during their salaah they will communicate (with Allaah 3,%3C) with humming (whispering) sounds like the sound of bees against a rock. hey will form rows in their (congregational) salaah just as the angels form rows and will form rows in battle as they do in salaah. When they go to battle in the path of Allaah 8,@3P (for Allaah 3,@3G1s pleasure), the angels will be before them and behind them with powerful spears. When they present themselves for battle in Allaah 8,%3\r7's path, Allaah a, GSG shall shade (shelter) them just as a vulture shades her nest (while saying this, Hadhrat Ka'b ~ G w demonstrated with his hand how a vulture protects her nest by spreading her wings over it). They shall never flee from the battlefield." (2) According to another narration, Hadhrat Ka'b !&%% said, "(The Ummah of Rasulullaah @@ were described in the Torah as) People who shall praise Allaah 3,WG abundantly, who will praise Allaah 3,%%G (by saying 'N Hamdu Lillaah 'j during all conditions. They will exalt Allaah 3,@5D (by saying %llaahu Akbar'j when ascending an incline.

They will keep track of the sun (to ascertain the correct times of salaah). They shall perform their five daily salaah on time even though it be at a dusty place. They will tie their lcincloths at their waists and wash their limbs (when performing wudu)." (3) Ahaadeeth Describing Rasulullaah Hadhrat Hasan bin Ali ~,Bi%j says that he once asked his uncle Hadhrat Hind bin (1) A1 Bidaayah wan Nihaayah Vol. 2 Pg. 326 (2) Abu Nu'aym in his HilyaVol. 5 Pg. 386. (3) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya. Another longer narration has also been reported from Hadhrat Ka'b ?8UW in the same book. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @@!%& (Vol-1) Abi Haalah ?WW6 to describe Rasulullaah @% because he could describe excellently.

His reason for asking for a description of Rasulullaah k$% was to adopt something of the description (because Hadhrat Hasan bin Ali WW was only seven when Rasulullaah @@ passed away, he did not have sufficient opportunity to study the appearance of Rasulullaah @% in much detail). Hadhrat Hind bin Haalah @,Wj began, "Rasulullaah @@ was of.outstanding stature, appearing such to others as well. His face shone brightly like the full moon at night. He was taller than the average person yet shorter than a lanky person. His head was gracefully large and his hair had gentle curls. If his hair formed a path, he would leave it that way, otherwise he never took pains to make one (while he would make a path if a path formed easily, he would not take pains to make one if it became difficult).

When his hair grew long, it would be below his earlobes. His complexion was radiant and his forehead was wide. His eyebrows were full though fine a?d stood separately. Between the two was a vein which would swell when he became angry. His nose was smooth with a high bridge and had a lustre about it, which made an unacquainted person think that it was large (whereas its lustre only made it seem such). His beard was thick, his eyes were black and his cheeks were smooth and unobtrusive.

His mouth was moderately wide, his teeth discreet with a slight gap between the two front teeth." "The hair of his chest formed a thin line up to the navel. Because of its smoothness and clarity his neck appeared to be that of a carved silver statue. His body was firm and moderately built with his stomach in line with his chest. His chest was wide, his shoulders broad and his joints prominent and powerful. The uncovered parts of his body were always radiant. He had a lirie of hair running between his chest and navel and although his abdomen and breasts were hairless, his arms, shoulders and upper part of the chest had hair.

He had long forearms, broad palms and his bones were well formed and straight. His hands and feet were well-built with his fingers and toes proportionately long. The inside of his foot was deep with the upper part so smooth that water easily flowed down them." "He lifted his feet well off the ground and leaned forward when he walked. He put his steps down lightly and walked briskly, taking long strides as he went along. He walked as if he was descending from a high place. When he turned to someone, he turned his entire body towards the person.

His kept his gazes lowered and would more often be looking down than up. (Out of modesty) He never looked at a person straight in the face, always walked behind his companions and greeted whoever he met before they greeted him." Hadhrat Hasan %'W&S then asked his uncle to describe the manner in which Rasulullaah k?@$ talked. To this, his uncle said, "Rasulullaah @@ always remained grieved (concerning the Aakhirat), was forever concerned (for the plight of his Ummah) and had no rest. He remained silent for long periods and would spehk only when necessary. From beginning to end his speech was complete (he THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH ( ~ ~ 1 - 1 ) did not speak vaguely) and spoke most comprehensively (without wasting words). His words were distinct and conclusive with neither excess nor shortage (leaving no room for ambiguity).

He spoke kindly without being harsh towards anyone or embarrassing anyone. Regardless of how insignificant they seemed, he always held favours in high esteem without belittling them or praising them excessively (so that no greed is shown)." "When the truth was being opposed, nothing could stem his anger until the truth was avenged." Another narration states, "Matters relating to this world never made him angry. However, whenever the truth (matters of Deen) met opposition, nothing and no one could stem his anger until the truth was avenged. He never became angry for personal reasons and never took revenge for anything affecting his personal life." !Whenever he pointed towards something, he pointed with his entire hand (and not only with one finger) and he always turned his hands over when expressing surprise. He (sometimes moved his hands when speaking and) would hit the palm of his right hand on the thumb of the left hand. When he was angry with someone, he would turn his face away from the person and then either ignore him or forgive him.

When he was happy, he would lower his gaze because of modesty. Rasulullaah @!% smiled most of the time and when he did, his teeth would shine like hailstones." Hadhrat Hasan bin Ali !&Eirn says that he did not mention this description to his brother Hadhrat Husayn bin Ali BWj for some time afterwards, but when he did, he gathered that his brother had learned about this from their uncle even before he could. He also learned that his brother Husayn ';S,w had even enquired from their father (Hadhrat Ali Sw) about the manner in which Rasulullaah @%% entered his home, left the home, conducted his gatherings and about the other mannerisms and behavioural characteristics of Rasulullaah w. It appeared that there was not any detail of Rasulullaah W ' s life that Hadhrat Husayn WCw had not asked about. Hadhrat Husayn 3EJw narrates further that when he asked his father Hadhrat Ali !&W% about the manner in which Rasulullaah @@ entered the house, the reply was, "His entry into his home was by (Allaah 8,@$G's) permission and when he arrived home, he divided his time into three parts. There was a part reserved for Aliaah 8%$G (for Ibaadah), a part for his family (to speak to them and to see to their needs) and a part for himself.

The part reserved for himself was further divided between himself and the people. The Sahabah WGWj closest to him would (discuss matters with Rasulullaah at home and) pass on whatever they heard from Rasulullaah @@ to the public without keeping anything secret. When allowing the Sahabah @,W to enter into discussions with him during this time, it was his practice to give preference to the Sahabah &%&G who were most virtuous in terms of their merit in Deen. Among them were those who had one need, others who had two needs and others who had more needs. Rasulullaah @@ would engage himself with (fulfilling the needs of) THE LIVES OF THE SAWAH '@G!@!& (vd-1) these people and would advise them concerning matters leading to their (spiritual) reformation and the reformation of the Ummah at large. Rasulullaah @?% would enquire from those visiting him about the welfare of the Muslim public and advise them accordingly." "Rasulullaah @?@ would say to those coming to see him, 'Those present here should pass the message on to those who are absent.

You should communicate to me the needs of those who are unable to present themselves (because they are too modest, afraid or living too far to appear themselves). On the Day of Qiyaamah, Allaah 3,GZG shall keep firm the feet of that person who informs their leader about the needs of another person who cannot do so himself.' It was only matters of importance that were mentioned to Rasulullaah @$% and he did not entertain anything else (such as futile talk). People used to visit him in search of Deeni knowledge and would not leave without tasting something (this either means that they would not leave without receiving the knowledge they came for or that they would not leave without having something to eat or drink). They would leave him as guides towards good." Hadhrat Husayn !@%&j further narrates that he asked his father about what Rasulullaah k$%! and when he left the house. Hadhrat Ali W3&k% repfied, "Rasulullaah @% always guarded his tongue from everything besides matters that concerned him. He always put people at ease without ever making them feel uncomfortable (he always advised and censured them in a manner that never mahe them afraid being with him).

He always honoured the noble persons of a tribe and appointed them as leaders of their tribes. He would warn people (about the punishment of the Aakhirah as well as about the harms' they faced from other elements and people). Together with warning others, he also guarded himself from the harms of others without depriving anyone of his cheerfulness and good character. He always watched over his companions and enquired about the welfare of the masses." "Rasulullaah @% would commend anything good and encourage it. On the other hand, he condemned anything evil and discouraged it. He chose the moderate path in all matters and was never contradictory.

He was never negligent of the Deeni welfare of the people so that they did not grow negligent towards the Deen or turn away from it altogether. He had a method of dealing with every situation without compromising on the rights of any person nor transgressing them in any way. The best of people were in his attendance and those that he regarded as the most virtuous were the ones who wished the best ' for others. In his estimation, the highest ranking people were those who sympathised most with people and assisted them most." Hadhrat Husayn ~ , G w narrates that he further asked his father about the gatherings that Rasulullaah @% held. Hadhrat Ali %,Wj replied, "Rasulullaah f & % never sat or stood without Dhikr on his tongue. He would never reserve a place for himself (in the Masjid) and also forbade others from doing this.

Whenever he arrived in a gathering, he sat on the fringe of the gathering and THE LIVES OF THE S A H B A H @!?@w> (~ol-I) 6 1 instructed people to do the same. He gave equal attention to each person in the gathering so that all of them thought that they were the most honoured. Whenever a person sat with him or stood with him to address a need, ~asulullaah B@ remained with him patiently until the person himself took leave. When anyone asked him for anything, he would give the person his need or kindly tell the person that he did not have the means to fulfil the need." "~asulullaah k%k$ generously distributed his cheerfulness and good character to every person so that he became a father to them all and fulfilled the rights of each one of them equally. His gatherings included forbearance, modesty, tolerance and confidentiality. Voices were never raised in his gatherings, reputations were never smeared and faults were never publicised.

Those attending his gatherings were treated equally (no racial and social discrimination existed) and people were held in high esteem only in relation to the level of their Taqwa. Each person respected the other and just as the elderly were shown great reverence, the youngsters were shown great compassion. The needy were attended to and enquiries were made about strangers (to see to their needs)." When Hadhrat Husayn %K%&3 asked his father about Rasulullaah W ' s interaction with the people in his gatherings, Hadhrat Ali %X@!i$ replied, "Rasulullaah always smiled and displayed a tolerant attitude and a soft nature. He wasnever ill-tempered, never hard-hearted, never shouted, was never vulgar, never searched for the faults of people and never joked excessively. Rasulullaah pretended not to be aware of things he disliked but would not make a person lose hope in receiving something he wanted, which Rasulullaah @@ himself disliked (he would give the person something to appease him or advise him kindly)." "Rasulullaah m divorced himself from three things and also prevented people from these three things. These were (1) arguing, (2) speaking too much and (3) indulging in futile talk.

He never spoke ill of anyone, never insulted anyone and never searched for the faults of any person. He only spoke when he anticipated rewards for his speech." ''Whenever Rasulullaah spoke, the Sahabah '$EIW&% sitting in the gathering sat with their heads bowed as if there were birds perched on their heads (they sat absolutely still like people afraid that any movement of theirs would disturb birds perched on their heads). The Sahabah remained silent as he spoke and spoke only whenhewassilent. They also took care never to argue in his presence. Rasulullaah @% expressed amusement when the Sahabah WGWj laughed and expressed surprise when they did. He tolerated the blunt speech and harsh manner of questioning that strangers used (when they came to ask various questions).

(Seeing that Rasulullaah did not mind the questions and because they were too respectful to ask such questions,) The Sahabah +B,W used to bring such strangers to the gatherings." "Rasulullaah used to say, 'Help a needy person whenever you see one.' He did* not tolerate anyone praising him, unless a person was expressing gratitude for a favour done (Rasulullaah @@ allowed this so that people learned that they should express gratitude to others). He would never interrupt the speech of any person unless the person spoke something wrong, in which case, Rasulullaah - would interrupt the speech by either stopping the person from continuing w or by standing up and leaving." Hadhrat Husayn W,Cm states further that he even asked his father about the manner in which Rasulullaah @% observed silence. His father Hadhrat Ali - replied, "Rasulullaah @& observed silence on four occasions. These were ( 1 ) when he needed to bear with something, (2) when exercising caution, (3) when considering something and (4) when pondering about something. There were two things that he always considered. These were how he could (1) see all people alike and (2) hear all of them alike.

There were also two things that he usually pondered about. These were (1) that which is everlasting (the Aakhirah) and (2) that which will come to an end (this world). Allaah 8,@51;YL had granted - Rasulullaah @&$!$ both the qualities of forbearance and fortitude because of which nothing made him so angry that he lost control of himself. Rasulullaah @@ exercised caution with regard to four matters. These were ( 1 ) ensuring that he does good and (2) giving importance to those things that would benefit the Ummah in this world as well as in the Aakhirah (his narration mentions only two matters). However, the narration in Kanzul LJmmaaI states, "Rasulullaah @&$!$ exercised caution with regard to four matters.

These were ( 1 ) ensuring that he does good so that his example should be followed (2) avoiding evil so that others also stay away from it, (3) exerting his mind in matters that will benefit the Ummah and (4) giving importance to those things that would benefit the Ummah in this world as well as in the Aakhirah. (2) Statements of the Sahabah W , W Concerning Their Qualities Hadhrat Suddi 2lW&l&& has reported the following narration from Hadhrat Umar ?&Sw concerning the verse: (r\ :ol+ Jl hb ' I 'You were the best of all nations who have been raised for (the benefit and salvation 00 mankind. You enjoin good and forbid evil and have Imaan in Allaah 3'@5F." {Surah Aal Imraan, verse 1 10) He reports that Hadhrat umar m j stated, "If Allaah 8@5G had willed, He I I (1) Tirmidhi has reported this entire lengthy Hadith in his 'Shamaa7l"from Hadhrat Hasan %@&j, when he starts by saying that he once asked his uncle Hadhrat Hind bin Abi Haalah W , W j to describe Rasulullaah @?@. The Hadith of his brother Hadhrat Husayn %%L@j is also mentioned, who narrates from his father Hadhrat Ali -. Reporting from Haakim, lmaam Bayhaqi >I ,',, ,., &urule~ has also narrated this Hadith in his 'Dalaailun NabuwahVfrom Hadhrat Hasan w, who says, "I once asked my uncle Hadhrat Hind bin Abi Haalah %43Wj..." Haafidh Ibn Katheer 2K%lGj has also reported this Hadith in his book 'W-Bidaayah" (Vo1.6 Pg.33). As mentioned in Kanzul Ummaal (Vo1.4 Pg.32), this Hadith has also been reported by Ruyani, Tabraani and Ibn Asaakir. lmaam Baghawi W%lw has also reported it, as mentioned in Al-lsaabah (Vol.3 Pg.611).

(2) This narration appears in Jam'ul Fawaa'id (Vo1.8 Pg.275). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @,E@S (1'01-I) 6 3 would have used the word (meaning "You are"), in which case the verse would have referred to all of us (whether a person enjoins good and forbids evil or not). However, Allaah 3,WZG used the word (meaning "you were'') to refer specifically to the Sahabah WGW. Therefore, whoever does as the Sahabah W,GW did (enjoins good and forbids evil) shall be among "the best of all nations, who have been raised for (the benefit and salvatiw ot) mankind." ( I ) Hadhrat Qataadah > B ~ Y + j reports that ~ahhrat Umar @ , C 5 once recited the verse: o\. PI+ JI 3 ~ ~ ) &I) ' "You were the best of all nations who have been raised for (the benefit and salvation of) mankind. You enjoin good and forbid evil and have Imaan in Allaah $,@ZG." {Surah Aal Imraan, verse 1 10) Thereafter, Hadhrat Umar W,Gw said, "0 people!

Whoever wishes to be among this Ummah (who are the best of nations), then he should fulfil the condition that Allaah 3,@&G mentions in the verse (i.e. enjoin good and forbid evil)." (2) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood W,- stated, "Allaah 3,G&G looked at the hearts of all His servants and chose that of Muhammad @@. Allaah 3,G$\r' then made him His messenger and granted him special knowledge from His own. Allaah 3,GZF then again gazed at the hearts of His servants and selected companions for Rasulullaah @% (the Sahabah @ S f ) to assist (in the propagation of) His Deen and to be assistants in bearing the responsibility of Rasulullaah @@. Therefore, whatever these Mu'mineen (the Sahabah @GW6) regard as good, is good in the eyes of Allaah 3,%ZG and whatever they regard as unacceptable, is unacceptable in the eyes of Allaah 3GZG." (3) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar @Gw had mentioned, 'Whoever wishes to follow the ways of another, should follow the ways of those who have passed away. These were the companions of Muhammad @@, who were the best people of this Ummah. Their hearts were most pious, their knowledge was deepest and they were least pretentious.

They were people whom Allaah 3,W&G had chosen to be companions of His Nabi @@ and for the transmission of His Deen. You people should therefore emulate their character and mannerisms. By the Rabb of the Kabah! The Sahabah i4%@&4 of Rasulullaah @?% were correctly guided."(4) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood @G3W once said to the people, "Although you people fast more often, perform more salaah and make more effort, the companions of Rasulullaah @& were better than you." When the people asked him the reason for this, he replied, "Because they had less concern for this (1) Ibn Jurayj and Ibn Abi Haatim. (2) Kanzul Umrnaal Vol. 1 Pg.238 (3) Abu Nu'aym in Hilya (Vol.1 Pg.375). It is also reported by Tayaalisi (Pg.33) and Ibn Abdil Birr in Isti'aab (Vol. 1 Pg.6) without the words "Therefore, whatever these Mu'mineen.. ." (4) Abu Nu'aym in Hilya (Vol. 1 Pg.305) THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @%$&> (Vol-I) world and more concern for the Aakhirah." (I) Abu Waa'il *B&lSj narrates that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood WSW6 once heard a person saying, "Where are the people who have no concern for this world and look forward to the Aakhirah?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Mas'ood - said to him, "They are the people of ~ a a b i ~ a ( ~ ) .

They were five hundred Muslim men who pledged that they would be martyred in battle and not return home. (Therefore, according to their custom,) They shaved off their hair, fought the enemy and were all martyred besides one who lived to tell the tale." (3) Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar S,w once heard a person saying, "Where are the people who have no concern for this world and look forward to the Aakhirah?" Taking the person to the graves of Rasulullaah w, Hadhrat Abu Bakr 4%3!3&% and Hadhrat Umar B,G&j, Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar %!i$%j said to him, "Were you asking about these personalities?" (4) Abu Araaka 3G66YGSj narrates that he once performed the Fajr salaah behind Hadhrat Ali ~ , G % % . After the salaah, Hadhrat Ali B,- turned to his right and appeared to be extremely troubled. Eventually, when the sun rose the length of a spear's length above the Masjid wall, he performed two Rakaahs of salaah. Thereafter, he turned his hands over and said, "By Allaah 8,@5'i; Z! I have seen the Sahabah '@!ZWj of Rasulullaah and do not see the likes of them anywhere today.

In the mornings, their faces were pale, their hair dishevelled, their bodies covkred in dust and between their eyes were the marks of prostration which resembled the marks on the knees of goats. Their nights were spent prostrating (in Sajdah) and standing before Allaah 8,@5'i; Z (in salaah). They recited the Book of Allaah 8,%5'i; Z (the Qur'aan) and would attain comfort by standing in salaah and making Sajdah. When the mornings arrived and they engaged in Dhikr, their bodies would move as the trees do when the gentle wind blows through them. Their eyes would flow with tears until their clothing got wet as if they (were remorseful because they) had spent their nights in negligence." Thereafter, Hadhrat Ali B,- stood up and was never again seen laughing quietly until he was martyred by the wicked enemy of Allaah, 3,WP Ibn Muljim. (51 Hadhrat Diraar bin Damirah Kinaani nW&lG3 once came to Hadhrat Mu'aawiya 53!Sd%, who asked him to dekcribe Hadhrat Ali 4 m .

Hadhrat Diraar bin Damirah Kinaani ?3G1n%I@j said, "Would you excuse me?" Hadhrat Mu'aawiya !Bw replied, "You cannot be excused." Hadhrat Diraar bin Damirah Kinaani r*, -)* I."' &uIw continued, "If I have to say something, then I swear by Allaah a, WB that Hadhrat Ali !8WkGj was a man of high objectives (with immense honour). He was a man of tremendous strength who always spoke decisively and passed judgement with utmost justice. Knowledge seemed to burst forth from his every (1) Abu Nu'aym in Hilya (Vol. 1 Pg. 136) (2) The name of place in Shaam where a large Muslim army fought the Roman army during the period when Hadhrat Umar %@%% sewed as Khalifa. (3) Hilya Vol. 1 Pg. 135 (4) Abu Nu'aym in Hilya (Vol. 1 Pg.307) (5) Bidaayah (Vo1.8 Pg.6), Abu Nu'aym in Hilya (Vol.1 Pg.76) as well as Dinowri, Askari and Ibn Asaakir as mentioned in Kanzul Ummaal (Vo1.8 Pg.2 19). THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @%@% (vol-I) 6 5 limb (people learned something from his every word, action and even when he did nothing) and wisdom spoke through him from every angle. He kept aloof from the world and its attraction, taking comfort from the night and its darkness." lVgy Allaah C%E5G!

Hadhrat Ali 3shed many tears and remained in deep thought for long periods. He would often turn his hands over and address himself. He liked simple clothing and coarse (unrefined) food. By Allaah g,@$F! He was just like one of us and when we met with him, he would make us sit close to him and ensured that he answered our every question. Despite him being close to us and us being close to him, we were too overawed to speak to him.

When he smiled, his teeth appeared to be a string of pearls. He showed enormous respect towards men learned in the matters of Deen and he showed great love towards the poor. In front of him, a powerful person never expected to succeed in his false claims and a weak person never lost hope in his justice." "Allaah 3,%3&? is Witness to the night when I once saw him sitting in his Mihraab when the night had already drawn its curtains and the stars had vanished. He was holding his beard and bending over, displaying the distress of a person bitten by a scorpion. He wept like a bitterly grieved person and I can still hear his cries echoing in my ears as he repeated the words, 'Yaa Rabbanaa! Yaa Rabbanaa!

(Oh our Rabb! Oh our Rabb!)' In this way, he humbled himself before Allaah $'@$F. He then address the world saying, '0 world! Are you trying to deceive me? Are you staring expectantly at me? Get away!

Get away and use your charms on someone else because I have divorced you thrice. Your life is short, your company is demeaning and people easily get into trouble because of you. Oh dear! Oh dear! The provision (for the journey to the Aakhirah) is meagre, the journey is long and the road is frightening."' (Upon hearing this,) Tears flowed uncontrollably from the eyes of Hadhrat Mu'aawiya onto his beard and he began wiping them away with his sleeve. The people present were also choked with their weeping.

Hadhrat Mu'aawiya ~~ then said, "That was indeed an accurate description of Abul Hasan (Hadhrat Ali ?&lWW). May Allaah 3,%%G have mercy on him. 0 Diraar, what was your reaction to his death?" Hadhrat Diraar bin Damirah Kinaani 3G&IGj replied, "I felt the anguish of a woman whose only child is slaughtered in her lap, whose tears neither stop nor does her grief diminish." After saying this, Hadhrat Diraar bin Damirah Kinaani CJZ&lGj stood up and left. ('I Hadhrat Qataadah W&lGj reports that someone once asked Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Umar 3 G w if the Sahabah '@Wj ever laughed. He replied, "Yes. However, the Imaan in their hearts still remained firmer than mountains." (2) Seeing the carriages of some Yemeni travellers made out of animal skin, Hadhrat Umar remarked, "Whoever wishes to see a semblance of the Sahabah of Rasulullaah k%% should look at these people." (3) (1) Abu Nu'aym (Vol.1 Pg.84). In his book fsti2ab (Vo1.3 Pg.44), Ibn Abdil Barr has also reported this narration fromHirmaaziwhohailedfromHamdaan and who reported the same from Diraar Sadaa'i.

(2) Abu Nu'aym in his Hilya (Vol. 1 Pg.31 1) (3) Kanzul Ummaal Vo1.7 Pg. 163 THE LIWS OF THE SAHABAH BEW3 (vd-I) ~ b u Sa'eed Maqbari RW&\a reports that when Hadhrat Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah $ @ 5 5 contracted a plague, he instructed Hadhrat Mu'aadh bin Jabal BGto lead the salaah, which the latter did. When Hadhrat Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah W&&3 passed away, Hadhrat Mu'aadh addressed the people saying, "0 people! Sincerely repent to Allaah 3,%3F for your sins because when any servant of Allaah 3'@3F meets Allaah a, WF after he sincerely repents for his sins, Allaah $,@5Fts forgiveness is assured." Hadhrat Mu'aadh WZiW$ then proceeded to say, "You have been grieved by the loss of a man whom I swear had a heart more free from malice than any other I have seen. I have not seen another with a purer heart, who was further from evil, who had as much love for the Aakhirah and who cared more for the well-being of the masses. Pray for mercy to be showered on him and make for the open plain to perform his funeral prayer. I swear by Allaah 3,@j%G that you shall never have another leader like him." The people gathered together and the bier of Hadhrat Abu Ubaydah %%5Wj was taken to the plain where Hadhrat Mu'aadh BWiG led the funeral prayer.

When the corpse was brought to the grave, Hadhrat Mu'aadh B,GWj, Hadhrat Amr bin Al Aas ~~5 and Hadhrat Dahaak bin Qais B,- entered the grave to lay the body to rest. When they emerged from the grave, they closed the grave with sand and (standing at the head-side of the grave) Hadhrat Mu'aadh %Ew addressed the deceased saying, "0 Abu Ubaydah! I shall certainly heap praises on you but will say nothing untrue because I fear that it may incur Allaah 3,@j3Fts wrath. By Allaah 3,%3\r'! As far as I know, you were certainly from among those people who abundantly engaged in the Dhikr of Alhah 3,G3F, who walked humbly on earth and who would greet (and part company from) foolish people when they addressed you (to avoid disputes). You were among those who would neither be miserly nor wasteful when spending in charity, but who display excellent moderation between the two extremes.

By Allaah a, WF! You were among those whose hearts submitted to Allaah 8,@5G, who displayed humility, who were compassionate towards orphans and the poor and who detested the behaviour of treacherous and arrogant people." ('1 Hadhrat Rib'ee bin Hiraash X&-&lGj narrates that Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas %!&%%% once sought permission to meet Hadhrat Mu'aawiya ?@Zkgtg at a time when members of various tribes of the Quraysh were with him. As Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 4 ? k j approached, Hadhrat Mu'aawiya @g&&i said to Hadhrat Sa'eed bin Al Aas SWi% who was on his right-hand side, "I shall present to Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas ?&3W such questions that he will be unable to answer." Hadhrat Sa'eed %W% replied, 'There is none like Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas %im to answer your questions." When Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas 4BS3Mi was seated, Hadhrat Mu'aawiya asked him, "What have you to say about Hadhrat Abu Bakr B,~@gi?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas replied, "May Allaah 3,E33G shower his (1) Haakim in his MustadrakVol.3 Pg.264 IFTNE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH @%Cur25 (VOZ-I) mercy on Hadhrat Abu Bakr WCWj. By Allaah 3,@5G! He ardently recited the ~ur'aan, stayed far from deviation, avoided immodesty, prevented (people from) evil, knew his Deen well and feared (disobeying) Allaah 3,@5G. He engaged in ~baadah during the nights, fasted during the days, remained uncontaminated by the world and was committed to administering justice among Allaah 3,%5\r"s creation.

He instructed what was good and always did what was good. He was grateful to Allaah 8,GjZG in all conditions,engaged in Dhikr morning and evening and was hard on himself in matters relevant to reformation. He excelled ahead of his companions in terms of piety, contentment, abstinence, chasteness, virtue, caution, self-discipline and in repaying people for the good they do. May Allaah 3,@5G1s curses up to the Day of Qiyaamah be on those who deride him." Hadhrat Mu'aawiya W= then asked, "What have you to say about Hadhrat Umar bin Khattaab ~,Ew?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas !2XW replied, "May ~ l l a a h 3,@%G shower his mercy on Abu Hafs (Hadhrat Umar %G#&j). By ~llaah3~%j5G! He was a great supporter of Islaam, protector of the orphans, a treasure chest of Imaan and a shelter for the weak.

By Allaah 3,%j%G! He was truly a sanctuary for the pious, a fortress for Allaah 3,@3G's creation and an ally to every person. With fortitude and confidence in Allaah 3,@3G, he established Allaah 3,@5GTs True Deen until the time came when Allaah 3,@5G made the ~ e d n of Islaam dominant and subjugated many lands. Allaah 3,%>5G's name was then mentioned in every direction, every hill and every spring in many parts of the world. He displayed exceptional tolerance when people spoke offensively, was always grateful to Allaah 3,%j3G during times of hardship andtimes of ease and engaged in the Dhikr of Allaah 3,@5G at every moment. May Allaah 3,%5G's curse until the Day of Qiyaamah follow the person who harbours enmity for him." Hadhrat Mu'aawiya B';j then continued, "What do you have to say about Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Affaan 4%3!Si!&?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas !&!SMj replied, "May Allaah 3c@$G shower his mercy on Abu Amr (Hadhrat Uthmaan %U&$).

By Allaah 3'@3G! He was an extremely honourable son-in-law (of Rasulullaah m) who kept the company of pious people and was among the most unfaltering soldiers. He stayed awake (performing Tahajjud salaah) for nights on end and wept excessively when engaging in Allaah $,@%G's Dhikr. Throughout the day and night he remained thoughtful about matters of importance, always ready to do anything of virtue and never tiring of completing anything that would lead to salvation. Among his noble traits was that he stood firmly against every calamity and was the generous sponsor of the Muslim army (especially during the Tabook expedition) and the sponsor of the well (the well of Rooma which he bought from a Jew and donated it to the Muslims). After all, he was the husband of two of Rasulullaah w ' s daughters.

May remorse until the Day of Qiyaamah follow who the person speaks ill ofhim." : Thereafter, Hadhrat M u ' a a ~ i y a ' ~ , ~ asked Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas &lZ@!3, "What have you to say about Hadhrat Ali bin Abi Taalib !iW@!G?" The reply was, "May Allaah 3gjZg shower His mercy on Abu Hasan (Hadhrat Ali 6 8 THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAH +@&> (Vol-I) !&Gi%j). By Allaah 3,@3G! He was a standard-bearer of knowledge, a fortune of piety, a stronghold of intelligence and a mountain of good. He was a light to those walking in the pitch darkness and an unrelenting caller to the great straight path. Hadhrat Ali ?i%IE%!&j possessed profound knowledge of the earlier scriptures, propagated the teachings of the Qur'aan and always imparted excellent advice. He always clung to the ways of guidance and stayed far from injustice, causing harm to others and from everything destructive.

He was the best of those who possessed Imaan and Taqwa and the leader of all those who dressed in sewn garments or in unstitched shawls. He was the most noble of those who performed Hajj and Sa'ee, the most magnanimous of those who administered justice and equity and the most eloquent of people save for the Arnbiyaa and the chosen Rasool of Allaah m. He was also among those early Muslims who performed salaah facing towards both Qiblas (the Kabah and Baytul Maqdas). Can there be any monotheist equal to him? He was the extremely fortunate one to marry the best of women (Hadhrat Faatima @U&!2i) and was the father of the two noble grandsons (of Rasulullaah w). My eyes have never seen anyone like him and will never see anyone of his calibre until the Day of Qiyaamah, which is the Day of Meeting.

May the curses of Allaah 8,@3G and the curses of every servant of Allaah 8,@3G until the Day of Qiyaamah be on the one who curses him." Hadhrat Mu'aawiya - then asked, "What have you to say about Hadhrat Talha B,W and Hadhrat Zubayr 4WW'%?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas B,W replied, "May Allaah 3,@3C's mercy be showered on them. By Allaah $,@3;"! They were both extremely virtuous and pious Muslims who remained extremely pure. They were both martyrs and exceptionally learned men. Although they made an error, Allaah 8,WG shall forgive them because of the tremendous assistance they rendered (to Rasulullaah and the propagation of Deen), because they were among the earliest Muslims, among earliest companions of Rasulullaah @%$ and because of the many good deeds they carried out." Then Hadhrat Mu'aawiya BW.3 asked, 'What have you to say about Hadhrat Abbaas Q=?" Hadhrat Abdullaah bin Abbaas @,W said, "May Allaah ac@5P shower His mercy on Abul Fadhl (Hadhrat Abbaas !&l3&). By Allaah 3,@3F!

He was the real brother of Rasulullaah @@ and the delight of his eyes. He was a chosen servant of Allaah 3,=G, a sanctuary for all people and the leader of all the uncles of Rasulullaah @%. He possessed deep insight into all matters, always considered the consequences of everything and was adorned by profound knowledge. The virtue of others fades into the background when his virtues are mentioned and the achievements of other families seem insignificant before the accomplishments of his family. Why should he not be such a great person when he was raised by none other than Abdul Muttalib, who was the most honourable of people and the most esteemed of the Quraysh who ever walked or rode." . . The above is a part of a lengthy ~adith(').

(1) The Hadith is reported by Bayhaqi (Vo1.9 Pg.160) who reports from Tabraani but comments that one of the narrators is not known. THE LIVES OF THE SAHABAN '&,- ( ~ 0 1 - 1 ) 6 9