SANKORE'

Institute of Islamic - African Studies International

Nayl as-Safaa’ wa Ijlaa’d-Dujaa

Fee Sharh `Ala Akhlaaq’l-Mustafaa

The Attainment of Spiritual Clarity

and the Removal of Spiritual Darkness
Regarding the Commentary Upon the Character Traits of the Chosen One.
*******
Shaykh Muhammad Shareef bin Farid
 Copyright © 1434/2013 Muhammad Shareef
Published by
SANKORE'

Institute of Islamic - African Studies International

The Palace of the Sultan of Maiurno
Maiurno، Sennar Sudan
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Book design by Muhammad Shareef

The motif is the I-Ching of the name Muhammad composed in block Kufic script written four times in a paired pattern
which creates the Ba Gua (8 grapheme) of green and black superimposed with the same motif in gold where the name
Muhammad is written 64 times creating an I-Ching of the Muhammadan Reality
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced، stored in any retrieval
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Folio 1 of the manuscript Akhlaaq al-Mustafa of Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, digitized from the archives of the
Center for Islamic Studies at the University of Shaykh Usuman Danfodio, in Sokoto, Sokoto State, Nigeria
 Introduction:
Regarding a Concise Biography of Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`
All praises are due to Allah the Lord of the worlds, and the best blessings and
most perfect peace be upon the master of the Messengers, our master Muhammad, the
seal of the prophets, and upon his pure family, all his Companions and upon those who
follow them in spiritual excellence until the Day of Standing. To continue: this is a
concise biography of the realized professor, the master linguist, the iitary stratigist the
freedom fighter, the governor Shaykh Abu Muhammad Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`
Muhammad ibn Uthman ibn Saalih ibn Harun ibn Muhammad Ghurtu ibn Muhammad
Jubba ibn Muhammad Sanbu ibn Ayyub ibn Maysiraan ibn Buba Baba ibn Abu Bakr ibn
Imam Musa Jokolli ibn Imam Dambuba at-Turuudi.
Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him was born in
the year 1180 A.H. (1766 C.E.) in a town called Maghanimi. He was the blood brother to
the Light of the age, the reformer of the religion, the Sword of Truth, the Imam of the
Awliyya, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` through their mother. She was Hawwa bint
Muhammad ibn Uthman ibn Hamm ibn `Aal ibn Muhammad Jubba ibn Muhammad
Sanbu ibn Ayyub ibn Maysiraan with the aforementioned lineage. As for his maternal
grandmother, she was Sayyida Fatima bint Muhammad as-Shareef ibn Abd’s-Samad ibn
Ahmad as-Shareef ibn Ali al-Yanbu`iy ibn Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam ibn as-Saalih ibn
al-Mubaarak ibn Ahmad ibn Abi ‘l-Hassan Ali as-Shadhili ibn Abdallah ibn Abd’l-Jabbar
ibn Tamim ibn Hurmuz ibn Hatim ibn Qusay ibn Yusef ibn Yushu`a ibn Wardi ibn
Bataal ibn Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn `Isa ibn Muhammad ibn al-Hassan as-Sabt ibn Ali
ibn Abi Talib and Fatima az-Zahra, the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬, and upon his pure family and contented Companions.
From his mother, Shaykh Abdullahi had five immediate brothers and sisters.
Among them were: the Imam and Shaykh Ali, who was nicknamed `Aal ibn Fuduye`. He
was the eldest of his siblings from his mother. There was his spiritual master and lamp,
the famous Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`. There was the jurists A`isha bint Fuduye`. There
was the learned Fatima Kimbu bint Fuduye`, and Fatima Yaghughu bint Fuduye`.
Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` was reared in a house of learning, righteousness,
fearful awareness, gnosis of Allah and saintliness. He began his education with the
recitation of the Qur’an with his father, Fuduye` Muhammad. Then he was handed over
to his brother, the reformer Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, who had already attained some
semblance of distinction. His father left him in the hands of his brother after he had
completed the recitation of the Qur’an. At that time, Abdullahi was thirteen years old,
and the age of Shehu Uthman, then was twenty-five. He took from him the science of
Qur’anic exegesis repeatedly from the beginning of al-Faatiha until the end of the
scripture. He studied with him the al-Ishriniyaat, the al-Witriyaat, and the six poets. He
studied with him the science of Divine Unity from the books of as-Sanusi as well as their
commentaries. In the linguistic sciences he studied with his brother syntax and inflexion
from the al-Ajurumiyya, the al-Mulha, and the al-Qatr along with their commentaries. In
the area of branches of the religion, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` took from the Shehu,
all the major books of jurisprudence by which he mastered the individual obligations
(fard’l-ayn), such as the al-Akhdariyya, the al-Ashmawiyya, the ar-Risaala of Ibn Abi
Zayd, the al-Mukhtasar of Khalil ibn Ishaq and other works along with their
commentaries. In addition, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` took from the Shehu the
sciences of prophetic tradition, the science of the men of narration, and other sciences
which are connected to the science of prophetic traditions; such as the works of al-
Qiraafi, the narrations of al-Bukhari, and others. Along with these from the inward
branch of the religion, Shaykh Abdullahi was able to complete the spiritual journey to his
Lord, at the hands of his brother, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, in the realm of the sciences
of spiritual purification through the transformation of character and Divine realization.
His brother guided him until he attained direct knowledge of Allah, ta`ala. By means of
the baraka of his blood brother, he became a person with piercing insight into the
mysteries of the religion.
No doubt Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` was the key spiritual guide to Shaykh
Abdullahi, because for more than fifty years he never left his big brother’s side. He also
accompanied the Shehu when he would receive instructions, as he mentioned in his
I`ida’n-Nusuukh that both the Shehu and he studied with more than twenty scholars
together. Among them were: the learned al-Hajj Muhammad ibn Raj ibn Modibo ibn
Hamm ibn `Aal; Shaykh Muhammad ibn Muhammad; the learned Abdallah ibn al-Hajj
al-Hassan ibn Hamm ibn `Aal; Shaykh Ibrahim al-Barnawi; the learned Muhammad Muji
ibn Abd’r-Rahman; the learned Muhammad Sanbu ibn Muhammad ibn Abdallah ibn
Ahmad ibn Hamm ibn `Aal; Shaykh Ibrahim al-Mandaari; the renown erudite
Muhammad al-Farabri ibn Muhammad ibn Hamel ibn Ahmad ibn Hamm ibn `Aal; the
learned Shaykh Ahmad ibn Abi Bakr ibn Ghiru; the lordly scholar Shaykh Abu Umar
Jibril ibn Umar; the learned Imam Mustafa ibn al-Hajj Uthman ibn Muhammad; the
learned Muhammad Bu`tughu ibn Muhammad ibn al-Hajj Abdr’-Rahman ibn Ghari ibn
Muhammad Sanbu; the immense Shaykh Muhammad al-Mughaari; the Imam and
Khateeb Muhammad Sanbu ibn Abd’r-Rahman; the well versed Shaykh Mahmud az-
Zamfari at-Tuuri; the learned Abd’r-Rahman ibn Muhammad, and many others from the
well established scholars of the Bilad ‘s-Sudan. Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` gathered
them altogether in poetic verses he composed for the purpose of recollecting them; and as
a means of garnering their baraka. It is appropriate for me to cite a few of them here:
“A poem of my luminous teachers, the first of them was my father
He was our instructor in the memorization of Qur’an, he was an educator
After him was Uthman, my illumination, my support
My lamp in the science of the shari`a and my school of thought.
He taught me the al-Ishriniyaat and other works like them
As well as syntax and the poets, in the way you teach a child.
In the science of Divine Unity and the science of tasawwuf
He gave me to drink and narrated to me simple arithmetic
As well as jurisprudence, exegesis, the science of prophet traditions, along with
His publications without exception, fulfilled all hopes
I took the Maqaamaat of al-Hariri from my brother
Muhammad, the beloved son of my maternal uncle
The teacher of the science of syntax and conjugation was our maternal uncle
Meaning by that Abdullahi, who was also my paternal uncle from my father
And Muji, Ibrahim Bornu as well as Mandaara
And Sanbu al-Muraati who was among our close relatives
From Abd’r-Rahman, the descendent of Muhammad
I learnt various issues in grammar and he gave license in what was desired
There was our companion, al-Farabri, a virtual reference
In the science of logic, who excelled over all like a star
The sciences of eloquence, as well as the commentary upon the an-Niqaaya
I took from Ahmad Ghaari the ascetic the well educated
From the science of jurisprudence there was the Shaykh of our teachers
Our exemplar and model, Jibril, who in that regard was like a rain cloud
He gave license to us in all of his narrations he received from his teachers
And he instructed and initiated us in Divine Unity, the best bequest
We kept company with his disciples with whom we benefitted
Al-Mustafa ibn al-Hajj in learning the text of the Kawkab
He transmitted the quintessence of prophetic traditions with their license
With what he received from Ali in the city of Yathrib
With Bu`tughu, a teacher from whom I received the Alfiyya al-Athar
And other sciences beside it, he gave license altruistically
With Shaykh al-Maquuri I learnt the beginning of the Mukhtasar
Of Khalil, we took it from him, and he was the best of vessels
The second of his disciples, that is to say, our beloved
Imam Muhammad Sanbu, the most bounteous comet
And how many other scholars and students who benefitted me
In the sciences besides these mentioned, from east and the west.”
As a result of the baraka of these learned scholars, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`
became an erudite savant of knowledge, speculative and comprehensive; the teacher of
all the teachers, a prolific author, an exegesis, master of prophetic traditions, a diligent
narrator, a master of Qur’anic recitation, an annotator, grammarian, linguists, a master of
eloquence; and in all the sciences related to language he was an absolute mujtahid.
In the year 1209 A.H. (1794-5 C.E.), Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` composed an
extensive poem named al-Miftah Li’t-Tafsir, which was a commentary upon the an-
Niqaaya and the al-Itqaan of as-Suyuti. At that time he was still residing in Degel with
Shehu Uthman. After a year he composed a commentary upon this poem called
Sulaalat’l-Miftaah as a form of abridgement.
Shaykh Abdullahi stood with his brother, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah
ta`ala be merciful to both of them; as a chief administrator (wazir akbar) and a fortifying
support (rukun abhar) in delivering and transmitting the religion in an easy manner in the
lands of the east and west; calling people to the religion of Allah ta`ala until people
entered into His religion in large numbers. This included many followers from among the
scholars, as well as the common people; and creatures came like the winds in order to
adhere to and follow them.
Then the people of worldly affairs from among the rulers of the lands of Hausa
aroused themselves against them with enmity. This was after they had first taken them as
immense exemplars, and after taking blessings from their supplications. This enmity
ensued from the fact that the government of the land of Hausa was built upon principles
which contradicted the shari`a. The majority of their political system was estranged to
the true path. So, when Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` began to clarify the path of Truth, the
people of success were guided to him and permitted the spiritual wayfarers to reach their
goals; then the people of worldly affairs from the venial scholars and rulers rose up in
their tyranny and error. They feared the breaking of their system, the loss of their markets
and their fall in the eyesight of those who were guided. Thus, these rulers and scholars
began to harm the community of Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`; and to bring sanctions
against everyone connected to the Shehu. They plotted against them using murder,
injustice and oppression. It was then that the Jama`at of Shehu Uthman began to establish
a clear distinction between themselves and the disbelievers, and separated themselves
from their blameworthy customs. The Shehu then made the hijra, along with his jama`at
to a land called Gudu, on Wednesday, the 3rd of Dhu’l-Qa`ida in the year 1218 A.H.
(circa 1803-4 C.E.). When they reached the land of their hijra; they established a
consultative assembly and agreed to appoint an Imam. They unanimously agreed to
appoint Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` as their ruler. The first person to give the oath of
allegiance in accordance with the Book and the Sunna was his intimate brother, Shaykh
Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`. As a result of this new dispensation, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn
Fuduye` became the pivot of the banners of jihad of Shehu Uthman; the general of the
armies, the teacher of the schools, the Imam of the places of worship, the chief wazir to
his brother, the Amir’l-Mu’mineen, as well as the manager and formulator of the political
affairs, and the arbiter and designer of justice. He did all this while continuing to act as
secretary, scribe, the composer of books, annotations, poems, and scholarly verses in
every science and discipline. In this regard, he composed a comprehensive book in every
single discipline and science.
Shaykh Abd’l-Qaadir ibn Mustafa said in his Rawdat ‘l-Afkaar that in the year
1223 A.H. (circa 1807-8 C.E.), the Muslims conquered the capital of the land of Gobir,
named Alkalawa. Thus, by means of this, Allah ta`ala completed His opening, victory
and prominence for the Muslims; and removed the thorn of disbelief from the remainder
of the lands of Hausa. As a result, some of them repented and others began to follow the
Shehu. Eventually, the affairs of the land became firmly established on an upright keel
and the surrounding regions were made tranquil. All praises are due to Allah for that.
In giving assistance to Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, Shaykh Abdullahi was like an
unsheathed sword or like a strong impregnable fortress. He was to him, the way Ali ibn
Abi Talib was in giving assistance to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Shaykh
Abd’l-Qaadir ibn Mustafa said in poetic verse regarding this:
“He was the best of wazirs, Shaykh Abdullahi
In following the Chosen One he was unrivaled
He was seen standing firm in every situation
Guiding the people of consciousness uninterruptedly
He stood firm to assist the Shehu in his objectives
Likewise his close friends and close relatives
And our Shehu was like a defensive fortress
Against the enemies and against every encounter
During the occasions of evil and deviations
From true guidance, envy and antagonism
May Allah be merciful to him and reward him with good
For his brother, how many times did he suffice him against harm?”
 With the praise of Allah, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` conquered the major
metropolis of the lands of Hausa, by the hand of his blood brother Abdullahi and his son
Muhammad Bello. In the year 1227 A.H. (circa 1815 C.E.), the Shehu removed himself
from in-time authority and temporal governance; and remained over the spiritual
sovereignty of the entire region of central Bilad as-Sudan. The Shehu then divided the
Sokoto government into two divisions: an eastern division whose capital was Sokoto
under the charge of Muhammad Bello; and a western division whose capital was Gwandu
under the leadership of his brother Abdullahi. Thus, Gwandu became a place of the
renewal of the religion, and the revival of the Sunna. During his reign over Gwandu, he
dispatched his son Shaykh Muhammad ibn Abdullahi to the lands of Borghu who
conquered them; and he sent his nephew Shaykh Muhammad al-Bukhari ibn Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye` into the lands of Nupe, which he conquered. These two knights
were the most important disciples of Shaykh Abdullahi, and accompanied him throughout
his campaigns; just as Muhammad Bello accompanied the Shehu in his. The Amir’l-
Mu’mineen Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye died on a Monday, the 3rd of Jumad’l-Akhir in the
year 1234 A.H. (April 20, 1817 C.E.), may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him and illuminate
his burial place. As a result, the oath of allegiance was given to his son the Amir
Muhammad Bello on that same day.
Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` possessed many miracles. Among them was the
profusion of his knowledge evidenced by the many scholarly works he composed, which
were no less than one hundred books. He produced these beneficial works while being
preoccupied with demanding duties, during times of immense turmoil and little time for
relaxation. During the rule of his brother, he was the pivot of jihad, the chief general of
the armies; one of the key teachers of instruction, the Imam of the masjid, the wazir to the
Amir’l-Mu’mineen, the one responsible for managing the political affairs and their
foundations, and establishing and formulating equity and justice. More importantly
Shaykh Abdullahi composed innumerous texts in every discipline among the Islamic
sciences which became well known throughout the lands; and were accepted by the
scholars and learned in the east and the west. These works brought advantage to the
common and elite alike. This is especially so with his renown exegesis of the Qur’an
called Diya ‘t-Ta’wil Fi Ma`ana at-Tanzil; a text unlike any composed in its time. Many
of the scholars of tafsir in these times rely upon it. He also composed his al-Hissen ‘r-
Raseen regarding the science of verbal conjugation, as well as his al-Bahr‘l-Muheet,
which is a versification of the Jam`a al-Jawaami` of as-Suyuti regarding the science of
grammar. It was these two works which established the proof that he had reached the
highest learned rank of mujtahid mutlaq in the linguistic sciences.
Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye said when citing the merits and
virtues of Shaykh Abdullahi: “The learned scholar and person of matchless intelligence.
He is our shaykh and our baraka, a prolific writer, master of Qur’anic exegesis,
traditionist, verified narrator and preserver by memory of prophetic traditions. He is a
master of the variant Qur’anic recitations, an expert authority in the linguistic sciences, a
master of the science of eloquence, and versatile being well versed in a multitude of
disciplines. He has taken a colossal share from almost every intellectual discipline, his
mind is dynamically fertile in every religious science and the pastures of his scholarly
production are abundant. He is famous in his time and a goal for those on the journey for
knowledge. He is one of the last of the great masters of knowledge and one of the last
seals on comprehension. He possesses spiritual realities that are simply unprecedented
and he is involved in researches that are meticulous and extraordinary. There is
unanimous agreement that there is simply no one like him in these times regarding his
knowledge and guidance. He is among the unique and sublime miracles of this age in the
sciences and disciplines of the Divine Law (shari`a). Wherever there are problematical
and challenging issues, he gives the established precedence and the most forward-
thinking view. His is the Sword of Allah against the possessors of heretical innovation, a
virtual mine of desirable qualities and knowledge, and the flint that ignites
comprehension and understanding. He is one of Allah’s signs regarding the verification
of the sciences, excessive in his study of the transmitted disciplines and has gathered in
himself diverse and variant fields of knowledge. With regard to knowledge he is the
bounty of this time and one of the most amazing beings of this age. He has authored
many works, among them being his versification of the an-Niqaaya; his versification of
the Miftaah al-Usuul and his Sulaalat’l-Miftaah. The bottom line is Shaykh Abdullahi has
shot his arrows into every intellectual discipline and they have found their mark, for in
that he is truly remarkable and astonishing.”
Shaykh Abdullahi had many sons and daughters. Among them were the Amir
Muhammad, the professor Ibrahim al-Khalil, Shaykh Ali and many others whose
numbers reached forty five. After 1244 A.H. (1826-7 C.E.), Shaykh Abdullahi ibn
Fuduye` resigned himself from worldly sovereignty, just as Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`
had done, and continued in the spiritual sovereignty over the sages. About that Shaykh
Sa`d ibn Abd’r-Rahman said: “Realize brother that Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye
`remained in the government for twelve years. It is said that he governed for fourteen
years. Then his son, Muhammad inherited the authority from him and governed for five
years. Then his brother al-Khalil inherited the government from him, and this now is the
time of al-Khalil. Only Allah knows how long he will rule. May Allah assist him, Amen.
The reason for the discrepancy regarding the numbers of years he governed was that
when Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` died, may Allah engulf him in his mercy Amen, and
what occurred between brothers had transpired; Shaykh Abdullahi remained behind in a
place called Bodinga, for close to eight months awaiting permission in the form of a
spiritual presence from Shaykh Abd’l-Qaadir al-Jaylani, may Allah be pleased with him,
regarding relocating to wherever he commanded. Then after eight months, he clarified to
him to relocate to Gwandu. It was there that he remained for twelve years and some
months until he died.” May Allah ta`ala be pleased with him, increase the remembrance
of his history throughout time and provide us with the shade of his baraka and advantage
Amen.
Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` died on a Wednesday, the 1st of Muharram in the
year 1245 A.H. (August 2, 1829 C.E.) at the age of sixty-six. Shaykh Abdullahi ibn al-
Qadi al-Hajj said in his at-Ta`reef: “Many of the poets and literary men of the time
eulogized him with many eloquent songs. This man of erudition performed many
glorious deeds and was well known for his frequent jihad against disbelievers and his
strenuous effort in defense of Islam and its people against the people of heresies and
corruption. He was a stalwart supporter of the religion of Muhammad and the true and
upright Sunna by means of his sword and tongue. He was steadfast and tranquil of heart
at times when courageous and brave men would flee. He was strong in the religion of
Allah and did not fear the criticism of the criticizer. He was a natural lover of students
and the people of righteousness and vehement against the people of evil and apostasy. He
was thoroughly dedicated at all times to teaching knowledge and composing scholarly
works. That was his pastime and fixation from the time he was a child until the time he
went to his Lord, may He be pleased with him and make the highest stations of al-
Firdaws his final destiny, by means of His universal baraka and His sublime and blessed
favor.” Sultan Muhammad Bello said about him in poetic eulogy:
“A majestic misfortune was unleashed with the loss of one who
in knowledge there was no companion that could compare with him
The schools of sciences have become effaced and abandoned
are their pillars from the loss of this judge whom we all loved
The disciplines of the divine law now weep because of his loss
not to speak of Qur’anic exegesis which he poured out generously
The science of prophetic traditions, jurisprudence, and legal decisions
grammar, and verbal conjugation were all pliant when next to him
The science of eloquence, and likewise the linguistic sciences weep for him
Knowledge itself has died due to the loss which came from his direction.”
The most important disciple of the professor, Shaykh Mustafa ibn Muhammad at-
Turuudi said in poetic eulogy of him:
“He was the helper of the religion, the upholder of the banner of knowledge
of his time, he was an adept erudite and a proficient scholar
When he moved about he walked with honor in the garment
of knowledge majestically, and his crown was Qur’anic exegesis
He shamed the sun as well as the full moon, and surpassed,
as a result of his embossing of knowledge, silk and embellishment
If a young knight due to the bounty of his virtue could have attained
the very heavens, then this proficient scholar would have attained it
Rather, he surmounted above it and became momentous therein
since there his spirit already existed as an illumination and light.”
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in one of his non Arabic poems that his blood
brother Abdullahi was among the perfected awliyya of the time; and that he had achieved
the station of one of the two Imams in the circle of the spiritual government of the sages.
He said that his name with Allah in the realm of: “Am I not your Lord”; was ‘Abd’l-
`Aziz’, and his name with the Angelic and disembodied spirits was ‘`Izz’d-Deen’ (the
glorious might of the religion). This was due to the fact that Allah gave honor to the
religion of Islam and its sciences by means of him. He also said in his Najm’l-Ikhwaan:
“Be preoccupied with the study of the scholarly works of my brother Abdullahi, because
he is mainly concerned with precisely preserving the apparent letter of the shari`a.”
Hence, we present to you this blessed book from Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`
named Akhlaaq al-Mustafa (The Character Traits of the Chosen One). It is one of the
most advantageous works composed with regard to its conciseness and depth in the
principles of spiritual purification for the perfection of character. It is the most
illuminating book produced regarding the fundamentals of the Path to gnosis of Allah
`izza wa jalla. In its pages, he clarifies that there is no arrival with the Lord, except in
following the character traits of the Messenger. For, the character of the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is a brilliant star. His merits are magnificent, and his true praise is
insurmountable. The noblest thing that can be said about his character, upon him be the
best blessings and peace is what Allah ta`ala says: “Indeed you are upon an immense
character.” This is because his character was that of the Immense Qur’an as it has been
transmitted in the prophetic tradition of A`isha, may Allah be pleased with her. For there
is no character more beloved and immense with Allah ta`ala than the character traits of
our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. No praiseworthy trait can be cited except that
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬had a greater share of it. Qadi Iyad said in his as-Shifa from
a narration of Ibn Ishaq on the authority of one of the Companions of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫عليه وسلم‬: “He never clamored in the market places and he was never bedecked with
vulgarity or with obscene speech. He was reinforced with every beautiful trait and he was
endowed with every noble character. Tranquility was his attire, righteousness was his
custom, fearful awareness was his conscience, wisdom was his rational, truthfulness and
fidelity were his nature, pardon and kindness were his character, justice was his conduct,
truth was his divine law, guidance was his leader, Islam was his religion, and Ahmad was
his name. People were guided by him after error. They were instructed by him after
ignorance. They were elevated by him after obscurity. They were given designation by
him after being unknown. They were increased by him after being few. They were
enriched by him after deficiency. They were gathered by him after being scattered. By
means of him divergent hearts, divided passions and disunited communities were brought
together in affection, and his Umma was made the best community ever extracted from
humanity.”
For, the Akhlaaq al-Mustafa is a decisive book in clarifying the immense
character traits of the Prophet, upon him from Allah be the best blessings and most
perfect peace. By the praise of Allah, and the best of His assistance, I have composed this
insignificant commentary upon it which I named Nayl as-Safa’ wa Ijlaa’ ad-Dujaa Fee
Sharh `Ala Akhlaaq al-Mustafa (The Attainment of Spiritual Clarity and the Removal of
Spiritual Darkness Regarding the Commentary Upon the Character Traits of the Chosen
One), as a clarification of the meanings of the words, judgments and secrets hidden in the
Akhlaaq al-Mustafa of the most erudite scholar of the Land of the Blacks, the greatest
professor, Shaykh Abu Muhammad Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may the mercy of Allah ta`ala
be upon him and may He benefit us by his baraka.

Shaykh Abu Alfa Umar Muhammad Shareef bin Farid al-Qaadiri

Thursday, 12th of Rabi` al-Awwal, 1434 A.H. (January 24, 2013 C.E.)
Cotonou, Benin, on the southern coast of West Africa
 The Attainment of Spiritual Clarity
and the Removal of Spiritual Darkness
Regarding the Commentary Upon the Character Traits of the Chosen One.
 ‫وعَلى آلِ ِه َو َص ْح ِب ِه َو َسهل َم َت ْسلِيما‬ ِ
َ ‫َّللا َعَلي َسِّيدَنا ُم َح هم ٍد‬
ِ ‫الر ْحم ِن‬
ُ ّ ‫الرحيمِ َو َصّلى‬
ّ َ ‫َّللا ه‬
ِ ‫ِبسمِ ه‬
ْ

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent the Merciful; there is no power or

might besides Allah the Exalted the Mighty.
May Allah send blessings upon our master Muhammad, the Unlettered Prophet,
and upon his family, Companions, wives, descendents, the people of his house; who are
the oceans of the illuminations of Allah, the mines of His secrets, the translators of His
proofs, the bridegrooms of His kingdom, the treasures of His mercy, the paths to His
sacred law; and who take pleasure in His direct witnessing. May Allah send upon our
master Muhammad a blessing which will unloose our constraints, relieve our anxieties,
and fulfill our needs; with a blessing which is pleasing to Allah and pleases him, and by
which He is pleased with us; to the extent of what His knowledge encompasses, to the
number of His Books, to the extent that the Angels witness Him, to the extent of what the
Primordial Pen transcribes, to the number of the rain drops, to the extent of the rain, to
the number of the trees, to the number of stones, to the scope of the powerful Angels, to
the number of what our Lord created from the first eons until the moment that time itself
will be folded up; and blessings upon his pure Family and extraordinary Companions,
with abundant peace, to the extent of what is in the knowledge of Allah, multiplied with
the Eternity of Allah.
To continue: Says the most bereft servant of his Rich and Independent Lord, Abu
Alfa Umar Muhammad Shareef bin Farid, the one sinful in his actions, weak in his
religion, base in his character, obtuse in his reason, disfigured in his appearance and
ungrammatical in the Arabic tongue, may Allah forgive him from His generosity and
mercy: All praises are due to Allah who created from the radiance of His light our master
Muhammad, the primordial human being who is the spring well of existence, the created
causative factor for every existing thing, the quintessence of the essences of the creation
of Allah, who was extracted from the light of His kindness and mercy, and who He
named ‘kind and merciful’, upon ‘an immense character form’, and ‘a gift unfailing’;
upon him be the best blessings and the most immaculate peace forever, and upon his
family and noble Companions.
This treatise before you is a marginal annotation and commentary upon the
Character Traits of the Chosen One by the most learned of the Blacklands, the military
commander of our armies of the Sokoto Uthmani Caliphate – Shaykh Abu Muhammad
Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` Muhammad ibn Uthman ibn Saalih ibn Harun ibn Muhammad
Ghurtu ibn Muhammad Jubba ibn Muhammad Sanbo ibn Maysiraan ibn Ayyub ibn Buba
Baba ibn Abu Bakr ibn Musa Jokolli ibn Imam Dambuba at-Turuudi, may Allah be
merciful to him and all of them. I composed it in order to explain to my children in
particular, (O Allah perfect their outer form and inner character), as well as those whom
Allah ta`ala wills from the loved ones and believers generally, that the foundation of the
Path to Allah ta`ala and His Gnosis is through following the character of our master
Muhammad, upon him be the best blessings and most perfect peace and behaving in
accordance with his virtues.
Everything that is in this book, I extracted from the lights of the teachings of my
master Shaykh Muhammad an-Nuur as-Samaani al-Kordofani, from the overflowing
instructions of my master Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam al-Khateeb at-Turuudi;
and from the blessed counsel and transmission of my master the Shareef Shaykh Abu’l-
Huda Muhammad al-Ya`qoubi the son of the learned Badal the Shareef Ibrahim ibn
Isma`il al-Ya`qoubi al-Hassani al-Idrisi O Allah benefit us by means of their baraka by
the rank of our master Muhammad, upon him be the best blessings and most perfect
peace Amen. I have named it:
Nayl as-Safaa’ wa Ijlaa’ d-Dujaa
Fee Sharh `Ala Akhlaaq’l-Mustafaa
The Attainment of Spiritual Clarity and the Removal of Spiritual Darkness
Regarding the Commentary Upon the Character Traits of the Chosen One.
I ask Allah ta`ala that he make it beneficial to my children, their mothers, to me,
its author, its transcriber, its readers, and everyone who even glances at it with the eye of
satisfaction; for it is with Allah that all assistance must depend.
My spiritual guide, Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam Kari`angha al-
Khateeb ibn Muhammad Tukur gave me license in this text on the authority of his teacher,
Imam Abd’r-Raaziq ibn Uthman, on the authority of his father, Shaykh Uthman ibn
Abd’l-Qaadir, on the authority of his father, the learned gnostic Shaykh Abd’l-Qaadir ibn
Mustafa, on the authority of his father, the learned teacher, Shaykh Mustafa ibn
Muhammad at-Turuudi, on the authority of his teacher, the author and professor, the most
erudite of the land of the Blacks, Abu Muhammad, Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` Muhammad
ibn Uthman ibn Saalih ibn Harun ibn Muhammad Ghurtu, may Allah ta`ala be merciful
to him.
The author, the professor, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala be
merciful to him said: “In the name of Allah the Beneficent the Merciful”, beginning
with the basmallah as all scholars open their literary works, following the literal example
of the Book of Allah in expression by His words: “It is from Sulayman and it is in the
name of Allah, the Beneficent the Merciful”; in imitation of its transcription at the
beginning of the Faatiha and each of the Quranic chapters except Tawba; and in
obedience to the words of the Messenger of Allah as it was related by Abd’l-Qaadir ar-
Rahawi in his al-Arba`een on the authority of Abu Hurayra: “Every matter of importance
which is not begun in the name of Allah is severed.” In another narration he said: “…is
cut off”; and in yet another he said: “is clipped.” The views regarding the basmallah are
as boundless as an ocean, which no one can reach its limit nor attain its end. Among the
learned scholars of this immense affair in our jama`at, was the lordly scholarly, the
gnostic teacher, Shaykh Muhammad Bello ibn Muhammad, who was known as Shaykh
Muhammad Tukur. For, he detailed and clarified the immense meanings of the basmala
in his book called Qira al-Ahibba with the most excellent explanation.
The author said: “All praises are due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, and
blessings and peace be upon the master of the Messengers”. He did so following the
example of the Mighty Book which begins with: “All praises are due to Allah the Lord of
the worlds”; in imitation of His command: “O you who believe send blessings upon him
and abundance peace”; and in accordance with the judgment of his words ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬: “Every matter of importance which is not begun with the praise of Allah and
sending blessings upon me is cut off, severed and eradicated from every form of baraka”;
as it was related by ar-Rahawi on the authority of Abu Hurayra.
He said: “…and upon his family”; that is to say, his people. The etymology of
the expression ‘aal’ is from ‘to attribute’, like when you say: ‘it is attributed (aala) to
something’; which means that it refers (raja`a) back to it or returns (`aada) back to it.
Thus, the family of a man refers to his wives, children and descendents who are attributed
by lineage to him or those who are connected to him. Allah ta`ala says: “We gave to the
family of Ibrahim the Book and the Wisdom”; meaning by that his immediate family and
those who follow him in his religion. Thus, the meaning of the “family” of Muhammad is
his wives, children, and descendents. It is said that it refers to his followers. It is said that
it refers to his Umma. The soundest opinion is it refers to the people of his household,
who are forbidden to accept public alms, but who are given the right to the fifth of the
spoils of war. They include the core of the Banu Hashim and the Banu Muttalib, who are
the ones Allah chose from His creation after His Prophet, blessings of Allah be upon all
of them. It is related in a prophetic tradition: “Public alms are not permissible for
Muhammad and the family of Muhammad.” Ibn al-Athir said: “There is disagreement
regarding the family of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬to which public alms are forbidden.
The majority of the jurists uphold the opinion that they include the people of his house.
That is to say, his wives, children, Ali ibn Abi Talib and his children and descendents
from Fatima, the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ ;صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬Ja`far ibn Abi
Talib and his children; `Aqil ibn Abi Talib and his children; al-Abass ibn Abd’l-Muttalib
and his children; and al-Harith ibn Abd’l-Muttalib and his children.” Qadi Abu Fadl
`Iyad said in his As-Shifa: “There is unanimous agreement regarding the permissibility of
sending blessings upon other than the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” Among these for whom
it is lawful to send blessings upon are his family, as the Messenger of Allah, himself, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “O Allah make Your blessings and baraka be upon the family of
Ahmad”; in which he was referring to himself.
The author said: “…and Companions, all of them.” That is to say blessings upon
all of his Companions. For the companion of a man is his helper. Allah ta`ala says: “And
they will have no companionship from Us”; that is to say, that they will not be helped by
Allah, nor protected. Or it means that they will not be accompanied nor helped with good.
Thus, a companion is a human who acts as a sentry protecting him from what he fears.
The Companions of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were every man and woman
among humans and jinn whom Allah distinguished with seeing the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬, listening to his words, accepting Islam during his time and assisting him; even if
their companionship with him was a single day. Thus, the statement of sending blessings
upon the Companions is further evidence for the permissibility of sending blessings upon
those other than the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬as Qadi `Iyad said: “It is related in a
prophetic tradition of Ibn Umar that he used to send blessings upon the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫عليه وسلم‬, Abu Bakr, and Umar may Allah be pleased with them. This was cited by Malik
in the al-Muwatta from the narration of Yahya al-Andalusi.”
The meaning of his words: “To continue:” is as it is said; that the beginning of
speech is the expression ‘to continue’. It is said that Dawud (Prophet David), upon him
be peace was the first to articulate the statement: ‘to continue’, as it was transmitted by
at-Tabaraani going back to the prophetic tradition of Abu Musa al-Ash`ari. However in
this transmission there is some dispute regarding its veracity. Abu Salama said: “The first
to articulate the phrase: ‘to continue’ was Ka`b ibn Luway.” It is said that the first to
articulate the phrase was Prophet Ya`qub (Jacob), as ad-Daraqutni transmitted it. It is also
said that the first to articulate the phrase was Yu`arib ibn Qahtan. It is said that the
beginning of speech is utilized in jurisprudence during legal judgments. Abu’l -`Abass
said: “The meaning of: ‘to continue (amaa ba`d)’ is ‘to continue with what was being
discussed from speech’, ‘such-and such’, to the end of one’s speech.” Sibawayhi said:
“The meaning of: ‘to continue (amaa ba`d)’ is ‘to continue with whatever occurs after
this’. Or its meaning is: ‘to continue after the naming of Allah ta`ala, praising Him,
sending blessing and peace upon His Messenger, followed with his family, Companions
and Umma. Legally, it is considered highly recommended to say ‘to continue (amaa
ba`d)’ at the commencement of the Friday prayer sermon. Regarding this expression,
there have been transmitted many prophetic traditions in the sound compilations, as is
well known. Al-Bukhari designated an entire chapter in his Saheeh specifically
discussing the saying of the expression ‘to continue (amaa ba`d)’ at the beginning of the
Friday sermon. In this chapter he cited many prophetic traditions which give evidence of
the lawfulness of articulating this phrase.
The meaning of his words: “…this is the book:” is that this authorship in the
form of a concise book, or this collection of narrated traditions is named: “The
Character Traits of the Chosen One.” This means: ‘I have named it the Character
Traits of the Chosen One’; meaning the character of our master Muhammad, because
‘Mustafa’ (Chosen One) is a name from his names, ‫ ;صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬as it has been related
by al-Hakim on the authority of `Awf ibn Malik who said: “For by Allah! I am the
gatherer (Haashir) and the Successor (`Aaqib). I am the Last (Muqafaa) the Chosen
Prophet (an-Nabiy ‘l-Mustafa).” This means that he upon him be the best blessings and
most perfect peace was the Chosen one with Allah before the creation of everything, just
as He chose him before the remaining messengers. Allah ta`ala says: “Indeed Allah chose
Adam, Noah, the family of Ibrahim and the family of Imraan over all the worlds.” The
expression ‘to choose’ is a synonym of to select (akhtaar) and to elect (ijtaba). Thus,
Allah elected their religion, the religion of Islam; or He selected them for prophethood
above all the people of their times. Our master Muhammad, upon him be the best
blessings and most perfect peace, was the chosen one with Allah before He created all of
creation. He is the Chosen One in this life and the Hereafter; as it was related by at-
Tirmidhi on the authority of Waa’ila that he upon him be blessings and peace said:
“Verily Allah `izza wa jalla chose Isma`il from the children of Abraham. He chose the
Banu Kinana from the children of Isma`il. He chose the Quraysh from the Banu Kinana.
He chose the Banu Hashim from the Quraysh. And He chose me from the Banu Hashim.”
The Arabic word ‘akhlaaq’ (character) is the plural of khulq with the laam left
unarticulated with the inflection sukuun, as well as khuluq with the laam inflected with
damma (both meaning ‘character trait’); meaning one’s manner of life, nature and natural
disposition. Ibn al-Mundhir said: “Its reality is that it refers to the inner conduct of
humanity which comprises his soul, its traits and the values which are specific to these
that stand as one’s natural disposition, its outward comportment, its inner traits and
substance. Both the natural disposition and inner character have attributes which are
considered pleasing as well as repulsive. However Divine Reward and Punishment is
only related to those attributes of the inner behavior, more so than those related to the
attributes of the outer natural creation.” Imam al-Qurtubi said: “The reality of inner
character linguistically is what a human takes upon himself in his soul from good
courtesy. It is called inner character because it eventually becomes like a natural
disposition in him.”
The author named the text The Character Traits of the Chosen One in order to
clarify the inward traits of our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, his good courtesies,
nature and natural dispositions. Allah ta`ala says: “And indeed you are upon an immense
character form.” That is to say that you (Muhammad) have been formulated upon the
courtesies of the Qur’an as Ali ibn Abi Talib and `Atiyya both said. This refers to his
compassion to his Umma and his immense generosity towards them. It is for this reason
that A`isha said: “His character was that of the Qur’an.” That is to say, that he naturally
held to the Qur’an, Its good courtesies, commands, prohibitions and what It embraces of
nobility, spiritual excellence and subtle kindnesses. Al-Bara’ said as it was related on the
authority of Abu Is’haq: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was the most
handsome of the people in face and the most beautiful of them in character.” The Imam
of the People of spiritual realities, al-Junayd, may Allah be pleased with him said: “His
inner character was named ‘immense’ because he had no anxieties which preoccupied
him from Allah ta`ala.” In reality, there is no one who has attained the excellent inner
character of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in total, and no single praiseworthy
character trait is mentioned except that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬had a greater share of
it. He upon him be blessings and peace said: “Verily Allah sent me to perfect noble
character.” And in another narration he upon him be blessings and peace said: “I was sent
to perfect noble character.” He upon him be blessings and peace said: “There is nothing
in the Primordial Scale which is heavier than excellent character.” He upon him be
blessings and peace said: “The most of which causes people to enter Paradise is fearful
awareness of Allah and excellent character.” He upon him be blessings and peace said:
“Indeed a servant achieves by his excellent character the rank of one who fast and prays
constantly.” He upon him be blessings and peace said: “The most perfect of believers in
faith are those who have the most excellent characters.” There are many others like these
from the prophetic traditions regarding the commendation of good character and its
merits. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ennoble his countenance once said in poetic
verse:
“Indeed nobility is purified character traits
Religion is the first of it and reason is its second
Knowledge is its third and tolerance is its fourth
Openhandedness is its fifth and truthfulness is its sixth
Fedility is its seventh and patience is its eighth
Graditude is its ninth and softheartedness is its remainder
The rebellious soul knows that I do not accept it
And that I will never be guided aright except when I oppose it.”
For there is nothing more superior with Allah than excellent character; and
conversely there is nothing more detested by Him than venial character. Imam Ali ibn
Abi Talib, may Allah ennoble his countenance once said in poetic verse:
“For every ailment there is a cure
But for evil character, there is no cure.”
What this means is that the cure for a person with innate discreditable character is
so rare and difficult that it is as if there were no cure for it at all. He is in need of a wise
doctor thoroughly acquainted with the treatments and therapy of human character.
The scholars, themselves, have composed rare works regarding the character traits
of the Chosen Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The most august of them being two: the first of
them is the renown as-Shifa Bi Ta`reef Huquuq’l-Mustafa of the Imam and traditionist
Qadi Abu’l-Fadl `Iyad ibn Musa, may Allah be merciful to him. It is a book which
provides immense advantage and much benefit, whose likeness has not been composed
before in Islam. It is one of the gifts and wonders of Andalusia to the entire Muslim
world, whose renown has spread in all the lands and regions, in the east, west, south and
north, specifically in all the lands of the Blacks.
The second of them is the celebrated as-Shimaa’il an-Nabawiyya wa’l-Khasaa’il
‘l-Mustafawiyya of Imam Abu `Isa Muhammad ibn Surat at-Tirmidhi, may Allah be
merciful to him. It is the most sublime text composed regarding the excellent character of
the axis of intermediacy our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. It is the best book
composed with regard to filling the hearts with immensity for the Messenger of Allah,
love for him, adherence to him and experiencing existential visions of him, upon him be
the best blessings and most perfect peace from Allah. We thank Allah for the spiritual
magnitude of the authors of these two works and may Allah ta`ala forever accept them by
means of His mercy and generosity.
This text, the Akhlaaq’l-Mustafa, by the most erudite jurists of the Bilad’s-Sudan,
Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` is a concise abridgment and exact quintessence of the as-
Shifa and the as-Shimaa’il, as I will demonstrate in the commentary Allah willing. Most
of what I will transmit in this commentary, will be what I took as reliance and reference
from these two texts through high chains of authority about which I received license for
from: [1] Shaykh Muhammad an-Nuur al-Kordofaani, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to
him; from [2] my spiritual master the jurist Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam al-
Khateeb, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him; and from [3] the shareef, Shaykh Abu’l-
Huda Muhammad al-Ya`qoubi, may Allah ta`ala preserve him. For, by the bounty of
Allah and His mercy, if there are in this commentary any good, advantage or words with
which one can draw near to Allah ta`ala and His gnosis, then it can only be attributed to
them. I ask Allah the Immense, the Lord of the Tremendous Throne to multiply that for
them in this world and the Next. If there appears in it any error, delusion, deficiency,
heedlessness, ignorance and enticing sin, then it is from me and from the rejected Satan;
because my ignorance and faults are well known to the common and the elite alike. I ask
Allah for forgiveness, mercy, well being, the covering of faults, the fulfillment of
supplications, for me, you, our parents, and the above mentioned teachers, their teachers,
for those we know, those who benefited us, those we have benefited, and to all the
Muslims, O Lord of the worlds.
The meaning of the author’s words: “Whoever emulates him in these traits will
become spiritually lucid (saafa).” That is to say, that whoever emulates the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his praiseworthy character will have his heart cleansed and
purified. This statement from the author is inestimable because it embraces the entire
objective of the book, and it clarifies its boundaries, concern, goal, advantages and secret.
For everything cited in this blessed book is an elaboration of this fundamental statement
and returns back to it. The Arabic word ‘safaa’ (to purify) is from the root ‘purification’
(safiyya) which means to be lucid, clear and untainted by anything. Allah ta`ala says
regarding one of the rivers of Paradise: “…and rivers of lucid honey (`asl musaffaa)”;
which means honey that is not extracted from the interior of bees and is purified
(musaffaa) of beeswax and particles. Imam at-Tabari said: “This means that this river is
clear of any foreign elements and of what is normally mixed in with unrefined honey of
this world’s life. What Allah ta`ala is instructing His servants by describing this honey as
being pure and lucid is that He originally created it as rivers which are fluid and flowing
with the fluidity of water and milk. It is for this reason that He described it as lucidly pure
(musaffaa), since He purified it of the impurities that are normally found in the honey of
this world’s life, which is not free of particles until after it has been refined and strained
from its beeswax.”
Thus, in the context of this work, the phrase ‘lucid’ (safaa), means the
purification and cleansing from every despicable trait, the lucidity of the spirit, and the
cleansing of the heart from inward whispering, illusions and false imaginings. It is for
this reason that the science of the disciplining of the soul is called spiritual purification
(tasawwuf). It is for this reason that it is called tasawwuf; taking its etymology from the
word lucidity (safaa’) due to the lucidity it brings to the hearts. Thus, the objective of the
science of tasawwuf is the purification of the hearts through the sincerity of directing
oneself to Allah; as the author clarified it in his Shukr ‘l-Ihsaan `Ala Manan al-Manaan
Liman Arad Shu`b al-Imaan. This is decisive evidence that the science of spiritual
purification is built upon adherence to the sublime character traits of the Messenger of
Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and that he, upon him be blessings and peace is in reality the
Ultimate Spiritual Guide or the Real Shaykh on the Path to Allah ta`ala.
It is in this light that the brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` may
Allah be merciful to both of them said in his Usuul’l-Wilaaya: “Imam Abu’l-Qasim al-
Junayd, may Allah be pleased with him said: ‘All the paths are closed except following in
the traces of the Messenger, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” This means first following the traces of his
praiseworthy character, and then following the traces of the sublime actions of his Sunna.
He also said in it: “Abu Hamza al-Baghdadi may Allah be pleased with him said: ‘There
is no guide on the Path to Allah ta`ala except in following the Beloved, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Whoever makes his soul adhere to the courtesies of the Sunna, Allah will illuminate his
heart with the lights of direct gnosis of Allah. There is no Path nobler than following the
Beloved, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his commands, deeds, words and character traits.’ As-
Shaybaani, may Allah be pleased with him was once asked about spiritual purification
(tasawwuf) and he replied: ‘It is simply imitation of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫’وسلم‬.” That is to say, it is imitation of the behavioral courtesies and character traits of the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. It is from this meaning that we realize that all
spiritual arrival is cut off for the one who does not follow the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬in his Sunna outwardly and inwardly. This is because Divine portion ensues as a
result of establishing the rights of servitude after having first purified the inward by
means of noble character and righteous deeds. It is for this reason that Ibn `Ata’illah said
in his al-Hikam: “The advent of Divine support occurs in accordance with one’s
preparedness. The dawning of Divine illumination occurs in accordance with the
purification of the inner secrets (safaa’ al-asraar).”
Thus, the meaning of the authors statement: “Whoever emulates him in these
traits will become spiritually lucid”; is that everyone who behaves in accordance with the
character traits of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬will no doubt purify his heart
and eventually illuminate his insight until he arrives at the same spiritual rewards that he,
upon him be blessings and peace arrived at; about which Allah says: “…the greatest
pleasure from Allah; which is the Supreme Achievement.” The one who behaves in
accordance with his character traits, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬will have his heart cleansed of
despicable traits, and it will be made lucid and adorned with virtuous qualities. This
principle is the essence of relinquishing (takhliyya) and embellishing (tahliyya), which
are the fundamental elements of the science of spiritual purification through character
reformation, as the People of this affair have classified it.
Thus, the meaning of ‘lucidity’ (tasfiyya) or spiritual clarity here is as the knower
of Allah, Ibn `Ajiba, may Allah be merciful to him designated it; is the spiritual lucidity
which results from the washing of the defects of the soul, the purification of the defects
of the heart, the cleansing of the defects of the spirit and the refinement of the defects of
the innermost secret. Each facet must be purified of its specific defects. When all of these
are purified, then the person will be adorned with the attributes of perfections, such as
sound faith, spiritual certainty, veracity, patience, tranquility, dignity, forbearance,
knowledge, kindness, compassion, reverence, felicity, nobility, modesty, hope, fear, love
and nearness, which are all a part of the illuminations of the Muhammadan character
traits. For when the inner reality becomes lucid and clear of murkiness, it is then filled
with these illuminating qualities, and there then arises in the heart, the suns of direct
gnosis and witnessing from the Presence of the All Compassionate One. The brother and
spiritual master of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, said in his poem regarding the
spiritual lucidity (safwa) of the Messenger of Allah, upon be blessings and peace:
“He is the most lucid of mankind, there is nothing constricting in him.
His lucidity is given out generously without ever becoming deficient.”
This, in essence, is the entire premise and objective of this blessed text, and is
why the author, may Allah be merciful to him said: “Whoever emulates him in these
traits will become spiritually lucid (saafa)”; and it is as he said.
In addition to this work Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala be
merciful to him composed many other texts regarding the noble Muhammadan character
traits, such as the Nayl’l-Maraam Min Shayyim’l-Karaam, the Manan’l-Manaan Liman
Arada Shu`b’l-Imaan, it’s commentary the Shukr ‘l-Ihsaan `Ala Manan’l-Manaan, the
Tahdheeb’l-Insaan Min Khisaal as-Shaytaan, the Sabeel Ahl’l-Falaah, the at-Tareeq’l-
Jaada wa Maa Ahtawat `Alayhi Min’l-Haada, the Tareeq’s-Saaliheen, the Adab’l-
Mu`ashiraat Li Talab’n-Najaat Fee’d-Dunya wa’l-Akhira, the Qawaa`id as-Salaah Ma`a
Fawaa’id’l-Falaah, and other than these from his compositions which he composed
clarifying that the achievement of spiritual hopes and the ascendance of the stairway of
spiritual arrival depend upon making the heart lucid by means of the noble character traits
of the Messenger, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The author, the Professor, may Allah be merciful to
him said praising our master Muhammad in his poem rhyming in the letter daal:
“Abandon the word of those who play and are seduced by pastime
In the remembrance of him, you will dwell amazingly in a lofty abode
Promise one another to eulogize him and let your eulogies be most praiseworthy
In truth, I praise those who ceaselessly eulogize Ahmad
He is the prophecy of the Bosom Friend, the time-honored one from Allah
He is Muhammad the most Beloved of the Lord of all the worlds,.”
Among his noble character traits which are part of the branches of faith
(shu`b’l-imaan); is as the author said: “He upon be peace was the most knowledgeable
of mankind.” He began with mentioning knowledge because it is the leader and first
principle in everything, as the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Knowledge is
the Imam and actions are its followers.” The meaning of his words ‘he was the most
knowledgeable of mankind’ is that he, upon him be peace, was the most knowledgeable
of all humanity from the first of them to the last. He was the first of the prophets to
receive instruction from Allah ta`ala as he upon him be peace said as related by Ahmad,
al-Bukhari in his Tarikh, al-Baghawi, Ibn as-Sikin and authenticated by al-Hakim on the
authority of Ibn Abass and others among the Companions: “I was already a prophet when
Adam was still between the spirit and corporeal form.” For Allah ta`ala instructed him
before the existence of all humanity when our father, Adam, upon him be peace was still
between water and clay. It has been related by ad-Daylami on the authority of Abu Raafi`
that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “I was shown a likeness of my Umma in the realm
of ‘water and clay’, and I was taught all the Names just as Adam was taught all the
Names.” For, he upon him be peace, was the first to have realization of Allah in the
worlds of the inward and outward through the meanings of the Divine Names and
Attributes; as the Sultan of the scholars, and the Shaykh of our Shaykhs, Muhammad ibn
al-Habib al-Meknesi said in his majectic prayer upon the Prophet called Kanz al-Haqa`iq,
may Allah be leased spirit and with the our teachers and their teachers the first and the
last of them
Thus, he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬became the most jurisprudential of men, the most astute,
and most immense of them in reasoning. This is because he was the ultimate objective
and final target of Divine Revelation. The foundation of Divine revelation is secretive
communication, hidden mysteries and sciences which emanate directly from Allah ta`ala
and which He reveals to all His prophets. Allah ta`ala says: “It is not suitable for mankind
that he speak directly to Allah, except by means of revelation, from behind the veil or by
means of an Angelic messenger, who reveals to him by the permission of Allah what He
wills. Indeed He is the Exalted the Wise.” That is to say, that He instructed them with
what He conventionally instructs humanity and by means of this instruction makes them
the most knowledgeable of creatures, either through visions, the true dream, or revealing
to them a Book as he revealed to Musa, or a Divine Recitation which He recites to them
as He revealed to our master Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Each
of these facets of instruction is directly from Allah ta`ala as Ibn al-Mundhir cited. Thus,
the one whom Allah instructs directly of a necessity becomes the most knowledgeable of
mankind.
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “The Divine gnosis of the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and the remainder of what Allah taught him and disclosed to him from
knowledge of what will occur in the future, the knowledge of what was, as well as the
astonishing mysteries of His omnipotence, and the immensity of His unseen kingdom,
was as He says: ‘And He taught you what you did not previously know’. The magnitude
of what was given to him, upon him be peace confounds the intellects regarding the
extent of His bounty to him, and makes the tongues become speechless unable to
articulate the encompassing magnitude of it, much less to arrive at truly comprehending
it.” All of this is evidence of the vast extent of his knowledge and his direct gnosis of
Allah, upon him be peace. Since knowledge is a part of excellent character, then its
opposite, which is ignorance is a part of venial character. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may
Allah ennoble his face said in poetic verse:
“Regarding the ignorant, before death occurs, he is already dead to his people
The bodies of the ignorant before they reach the tomb, have become tombs
For if a person does not give life to his heart by means of knowledge
Then he will not experience any awakening until the Final Resurrection.”
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace is that he
“…was the most meticulous of mankind in his piety”. This means that he was the most
fearfully aware and the most frightened of Allah of all humanity, because the origin of
scrupulous piety (wara`) is abstaining from all prohibitions and eschewing them at all
cost, seeking by means of that what Allah ta`ala says: “The Paradise has been brought
near to those who are fearfully aware and It is not far. This is what has been promised to
every relenting and cautious person who fears the All Compassionate One in the unseen,
and comes with a repentant heart.” He, upon him be blessings and peace said as it was
related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Anas: “As for me, by Allah I am the most
fearfully aware of all of you before Allah and the most frightened of Allah than any of
you.” This means that he was the most severe of all of you in obeying the commands of
Allah, and avoiding the prohibitions of Allah. For, the mastery of religion is by means of
fearful awareness and dreadful awe of Allah, which are the summation of scrupulous
piety, as he upon him be blessings and peace said: “The mastery of religion is scrupulous
piety.” This was transmitted by ad-Daylami on the authority of Abu Hurayra. This
prophetic tradition means that true mastery and certainty in belief, outward surrender and
spiritual excellence are based upon the fear and dread one has of Allah ta`ala, as it will be
discussed Allah willing.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace is that he
“…was the most austere of mankind in this world’s life.” This means that he was more
stringent in abandoning this world’s life than any other human, emulating the words of
Allah ta`ala: “And do not turn your gaze towards those couples whom We have given the
beauties of this world’s life.” For austerity (zuhd) is the opposite of excessive
consumption, desire and hoarding of this world’s life. He upon him be blessings and
peace said: “The most superior of humanity is the austere believer.” There is no doubt
that he, upon him be blessings and peace was the most superior of mankind, which by
definition means he was the most austere of them. The evidence of his austerity is in what
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “It was related on the authority of A`isha, may Allah be
pleased with her who said: ‘The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never took his fill of
bread for three days straight, until his demise’.” In another narration: “The family of the
Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless and grant him peace never took their fill of bread
until he met Allah ta`ala.” In another narration: “…he never took his fill of barley bread
for two executive days. However, if he had wanted, Allah could have given him such
things that you cannot even imagine.” Thus, he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬chose this form of
austerity for himself even though he had the ability to attain vast and opulent amounts of
this world’s life; as one of my spiritual masters, Shaykh Fadlallah Haeri used to
frequently say: “The true austere person is not a destitute person who abstains from this
world because he cannot attain it, but the true austere person is the one who has this
world at his easy disposal and then abstains from it.” Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah
ta`ala be pleased with him said in corroboration of this: “The best form of austerity is to
conceal one’s austerity.”
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi from a prophetic tradition transmitted by Abu
Amama: “My Lord showed me that He could transform for me the entire riverbed of
Mecca into gold. I said: ‘No O Lord, rather I prefer to be full one day and hungry the next.
So that when I am hungry I will beseech You, and when I am full, I will thank You’.”
The reason for his lack of sedation most of the time with food and drink was because of
the few things he possessed voluntarily; in that they were available, but he preferred that
for others over himself and expended them on others in order to achieve the Pleasure of
his Lord. This prophetic tradition not only establishes the evidence of his austerity in this
world, upon him be blessings and peace, but it is also refutation against those who falsely
claim that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬became wealthy at the end of his life;
as we will elaborate on later, Allah willing.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace is that he
“… was the most noble of mankind”; which means that he upon him be blessings and
peace was the most honorable (ashraf) of them. For, the phrase nobility (karam) comes
from the concept of generosity (kareem), which gathers together every aspect of good,
honor and virtue. Allah ta`ala says: “Verily the most noble of you in the sight of Allah are
those who are most fearfully aware.” That is to say, that the most honorable of humanity,
and the greatest of them in standing and heredity are those who are most fearfully aware
in their religion. We cited previously that he upon him be blessings and peace was the
most fearfully aware of mankind by his own words as transmitted by al-Bukhari on the
authority of Anas: “As for me, by Allah I am the most fearfully aware of all of you before
Allah and the most frightened of Allah than any of you.” As for his nobility with Allah
ta`ala He says: “Indeed We have given you a clear victory, in order that Allah may
forgive you your former and latter wrong actions, to complete His favor upon you, to
guide you upon the Straight Path and that Allah may assist you with a Mighty Conquest.”
Qadi `Iyad said: “These Qur’anic verses speak of his virtue, praises him and speaks of
the nobility of his standing with Allah ta`ala; as well as His favor which He granted him
which cannot be adequately described. Allah, majestic be His majesty, begins by
informing him what He has decreed for him from His clear decision by manifesting him
politically, granting him the defeat over his enemies, exalting his teachings and shari`a,
and that he has been forgiven and will not be taken to task for what was or will be. One
of the people of knowledge said: ‘What Allah means by forgiveness is for what occurred
and for what has not yet occurred; that you (Muhammad) are already forgiven.’ Mekki
said: ‘Allah made His favor the causative factor for His forgiveness, for everything is
from Him, there is no deity except Him, favor upon favor and bounty upon bounty’.”
Qadi `Iyad also said after a little: “Ja`far as-Saadiq ibn Muhammad al-Baaqir once said:
“Part of the completion of His blessings upon him is that He made him His Beloved,
swore by his life, abrogated the previous shari`a by means of him, made him ascend the
Highest Abode, protected him during the Ascension until his eyes: ‘…did not swerve nor
sweep aside’, sent him as a Messenger to the Black and the Red, made the spoils of war
lawful for him and his Umma, made him an interceding intercessor and the master of the
children of Adam, coupled his remembrance with His remembrance, coupled his pleasure
with His pleasure, and made him one of the Two Pillars of Tawheed.” It has been
narrated in a prophetic tradition related by Anas that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “I am the most noble of the children of Adam with my Lord and that is no
empty boast!” All of this is evidence that he upon him be blessings and peace was the
most noble of mankind. The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in Ishriniyyaat about
the nobility and generosity of the Prophet:
“He is generous and majestic and regarding guidance, he holds strongly to it
He is the protecting guarantor of creatures, the owner of every beautiful quality
Abundant in virtues and from him perversion can never be encountered
He is colossal to those who show him enmity who are ruined for the sake of Allah
Abundant in giving others and for those natural peacemakers, he is the Way.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace is that he
“…was the most equitable of mankind”. That is to say, he was the most just and
trustworthy of them, emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “Verily Allah commands justice
and kindness”; and by His words: “When you judge between people that you judge with
justice”; and by His words: “When you speak be just even against those nearest in kin”;
and by His words: “So make peace between them with justice, and be equitable, for
indeed Allah loves those who are equitable”. Ibn al-Mundhir said: “Equity (`adl) is that
which is well established in the souls of men to be that which is most upright
(mustaqeem) and it is the opposite of injustice and inequity (jawr).” Shihab’d-Deen said
in his Naseem’r-Riyaad: “The meaning of the concept ‘equity’ is that it is refraining
(`uduul) from injustice and oppression.” Prior to being commissioned as a Prophet, the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was actually nicknamed ‘the trustworthy one’ (al-
Amin). Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “It has been related on the authority of ar-Rabi`
ibn Khuthaym: ‘The people used to seek judgment from the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬during the Days of Ignorance before the advent of Islam. And he, upon him be
blessings and peace said: ‘By Allah! I am called trustworthy in the heavens and I am
called trustworthy on earth’.” This means that he was well-known for his justice and
trustworthiness among the inhabitants of the Highest Abode as well as among the people
of the earth. This is because he never had an inclination to lie, commit injustice or
oppression in his adjudications between people, even when judging against his nearest of
kin. This was something well known with him even before prophethood was established
for him, and what occurred after its advent only increased him in trustworthiness. He,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said as it was related by Muslim: “By Allah! If Fatima, the daughter
of Muhammad, were to commit theft, I would have her hand cut off.” This alone is a
testament of his justice, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace is that he
“…was the most tolerant of mankind and the most forgiving of mankind”. That is to
say, that he was the most patient (asbir) and forbearing of people when encountering
offense, and was the least of them in taking people to account for their sins. Qadi `Iyad
said in his as-Shifa: “As for forbearance, long-suffering, pardoning in spite of having the
power to punish and patience in the face of offense, these are all distinct from each other.
Forbearance (hilm) is a state of dignified bearing and constancy despite provocation.
Long-suffering (ihtimaal) is the ability to restrain oneself in the face of pains and injuries.
Patience (sabr) is similar to it, but its meaning is slightly different. As for pardoning
(`afwu) it is refusing to hold something against someone. All of these qualities are from
what Allah disciplined His Prophet with, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with by His words: ‘Take the
way of pardoning, command the practical and turn away from the ignorant’.” He also
related in it: “It has been related on the authority of A`isha, may Allah be pleased with
her who said: ‘The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was never given a choice
between two matters, except that he chose the easier of the two as long as it was not
sinful. If it were sinful, then he was the furthest of people from it. The Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never took vengeance for himself, except when the sanctity of
Allah was violated. Then he would take vengeance for the sake of Allah because of it.” It
was related that when Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬had his tooth broken and his face was cut
on the day of the Battle of Uhud. This was thoroughly unbearable for his Companions,
who said: “If only you would supplicate against them.” He said: “I was not sent to curse,
but I was sent as an inviter to Allah and a mercy. O Allah guide my people for they do
not know.” This is evidence of the extent of his tolerance and pention for pardoning. The
blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be
merciful to both of them said about the innate forebearance and virtue of the Prophet in
the poem Ishriniyyaat:
“He is beloved, and has a Light which is evident in Yathrib
He is praiseworthy, illustrious, openhanded and a sincere counselor
He is foreberant, and has abundant praise with everything in creation
He is protecting of others, and to all the worlds he is a sincere counselor
He is warmhearted and a source of all things good, coming and going.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith, is that he “…was the most generous of mankind”; which
means that he was the most openhanded (ajwad) and most magnanimous (asmah) of
them, emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “Expend in the Way of Allah, and do not let
your own hands cast you to ruin, and be magnanimous, for Allah loves the people of
magnanimity.” The expressions generosity (sakhi), openhandedness (jawaad),
magnanimity (samaaha) and liberality (karam) are contiguous in meaning, but there are
distinctions which distinguish one from the other. Liberality (karam), for example, means
to generously expend one’s wealth in good faith in circumstances which will advance
one’s importance, prestige and bring advantage to others. It is the opposite of ignobleness
(nidhaala). Magnanimity (samaaha) is to forego or pardon what is owed to you by others
and to do so cheerfully and in good faith. It is the opposite of spitefulness (shakaasa).
Generosity (sakhaa’) is to readily expend one’s wealth and to diligently avoid acquiring
stingy qualities in which there is no praise. This is also considered openhandedness
(juud), as Ibn Malik said in his al-Kifaaya: “The generous person is openhanded.” It is
the opposite of tightfistedness (taqseer); as `Iyad said. He (Qadi `Iyad) also related in the
as-Shifa: “It has been related on the authority of Ibn Abass: ‘The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
was the most generous of people in giving gifts and the most generous of all people
during the month of Ramadan. When he would encounter Jibril, upon him be peace he
was more generous than the gusting winds.’ It was related on the authority of Anas: ‘A
man once asked him for financial assistance and he gave him all the sheep between two
mountains. The man then returned to his country and said: ‘Accept Islam, for
Muhammad, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬gives gifts like a man who does not fear poverty’. On many
occasions he gave a hundred camels to more than one person. He once gave Safwan one
hundred camels, then one hundred, and then another one hundred. This level of
generosity had been his character even before he was commissioned as a Prophet.” All of
this is evidence that he, upon him be blessings and peace was the most generous of
mankind.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not leave behind a single gold or silver
coin”; that is to say, anything from this world’s life. He specified gold and silver coins
for mention because they are considered the greater portion of this world’s wealth. This is
an indication of the extent of his austerity, upon him be blessings and peace, and his
detachment from the love of this world’s life and being covetous for it. This was stated
explicitly in a prophetic tradition of A`isha from the narration of `Iyad, where she said:
“The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not leave behind a single gold or silver
coin, nor sheep nor camel.” He also related: “In a prophetic tradition of `Amr ibn al-
Haarith: ‘He only left behind his weapon, his sandals and some land the latter of which
was given as alms’.” He did this emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “And expend from
what We have provided you with before death comes to you, and you say: O Lord,
postpone death for me for a short time so that I can give alms, and be among the
righteous.” For among the traits of the righteous is that they die without possessing
anything of this world’s life. Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Once Jibril descended upon
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and said: ‘Allah gives you the greetngs of peace
and says to you: ‘Would you like that He make these mountains into gold, that would be
with you whererever you are?’ The Messenger of Allah, upon him be peace hesitated to
answer for some time. Then he said: ‘O Jibril, this world is an abode for the one who has
no abode. It is wealth for the one who has no wealth. And it is amassed by those who
have no intelligence’. Then Jibril said to him: ‘Allah has firmly established you, O
Muhammad, with a well established word’.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was never asked for anything except that he
gave it.” He did this emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “Those in whose wealth there is
a known right, for the one who ask and the nearest of kin.” And as it was established in a
prophetic tradition related by Abu Nu`aym on the authority of Ja`far ibn Muhammad on
the authority of his father, Muhammad al-Baqir on the authority of his father, Ali ibn al-
Husayn on the authority of his father, al-Husayn ibn Ali on the authority of his father, Ali
ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with all of them that he said: “The Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was openhanded. He was never asked for anything except that
he gave it, even when nothing remained for him to give, he would seek after it for him.”
In the narration of Anas: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was never asked for
anything except that he gave it or he remained silent.” In the narration of Ibn Jareer on
the authority of Sahl ibn Sa`d: “He was never asked for anything and then withheld it.” In
another narration: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was never asked for
anything and he said: ‘No’.” All of this is evidence of his openhandedness, liberality, and
magnanimity, upon him from Allah be the best blessings and most perfect peace. The
blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be
merciful to both of them said in poetic verse about the openhandedness and generosity of
the Prophet:
“He is refined and venerable, crowned with every quality of graciousness
He is magnanimous in giving to others, for his door is never locked
He is openhanded and generous, for he is a model in every manner of excellence
Conscious awareness surrenders to him with a light that is resplendent
So, let’s make ready and run to him and make spiritual night journeys to him.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He never faced off anyone in ways that they
would dislike.” That is to say, even when their offenses were deserving of that. This is an
indication of the extent of his tolerance, upon him be blessings and peace. Allah ta`ala
says to him: “Ward off evil with what is better.” Allah ta`ala also says: “Good and evil
are not the same, so ward off evil with what is better, so that the person with whom there
is some enmity between him and you, he can become like an intimate friend.” Qadi `Iyad
transmitted in his as-Shifa: “It has been related on the authority of Anas may Allah be
pleased with him: ‘I was once with the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and he was wearing a
thick cloak. A Bedouin came and pulled him so violently by the cloak that the edge of the
cloak made a mark on the side of his neck. He then said: ‘O Muhammad! Let me load up
these two camels of mine from the wealth of Allah which is with you, since you will not
let me load them up from your own wealth or the wealth of your father!’ The Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬remained silent, and then said: ‘The wealth is the wealth of Allah, and I
am His servant.’ He then said: ‘O Bedouin shall I take revenge for what you did to me?’
He said: ‘No.’ He said: ‘Why not?’ The Bedouin replied: ‘Because it is not your custom
to repay evil with evil.’ The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬laughed and then ordered that one
camel be loaded with barley and the other camel be loaded with dates.’
His words: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬laughed…” is not a contradiction of
what the author will say: “…and his laughter was merely a smile…”, as it was
corroborated by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Jaabir ibn Samra who said: “…and he
used not to laugh except by smiling.” This is because it is conceivable that his laughter at
the time was merely a smile, and it was only called laughter because he smiled to the
point that his molar teeth could be seen. But it was not laughter in a real sense. Or it is
also conceivable that his laughter at that time was regarding an affair of the Hereafter,
because he, upon him be peace laughed at the Bedouin out of pleasure with him due to
his good opinion of him, his good opinion of Allah, and the strength of his belief in him.
Since this was an affair of the Hereafter, and the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬only laughed
concerning the affairs of the Hereafter, as it will be explained, Allah willing.
He also said in the as-Shifa: “A`isha may Allah be pleased with her said: ‘I never
saw the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬take revenge for an act of injustice done to
him, as long it was not a sanctity from the sanctities of Allah ta`ala. Further, he never hit
anyone with his hand at all, except during jihaad in the Way of Allah. He never hit a
servant or a woman’. A man was brought to him, and it was said that: ‘This man wanted
to kill you.’ He said, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬to the man: ‘Do not be afraid! Do not be afraid!
Even if you wanted to do that, you would not have been given the power over me’.”
This is decisive proof that the judgment of the Sunna of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬overrides the judgment of a Qur’anic verse as as-Shafi` and others held. This is
because it has been revealed in the Qur’an, as well as in the Torah and the Injil, the
permissibility of striking one’s wife when she persists in disobedience by His words: “As
for those whom you may fear disobedience, admonish them, banish them to separate
sleeping quarters, or strike them. If they then obey you, seek no way against them, for
Allah is Exalted Immense.” As-Shafi` said that the striking mentioned in this verse is
permissible but that abandoning striking is better because it was related by Umar ibn al-
Khattab who said: “With us, the company of the Quraysh, the men controlled the women.
But when we arrived in al-Medina we found that their women controlled their men. As a
result our women intermixed with their women and then began to challenge their
husbands. Then the permission was given to strike them. As a result of this, a large
number of the women came to the homes of the wives of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, all
of them complaining about abuse from their husbands. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: ‘This night there has come to the family of Muhammad, more than seventy
of the women; each of them complaining about abuse from their husbands. You will not
find those of them who strike their wives to be the best among you’.” What this means is
that those who strike their wives is not better than those who do not strike their wives.
As-Shafi` and others held the view that this prophetic tradition is evidence that it is
foremost in the religion to abandon striking people. I say: that this is evidence that
abandoning striking any person at all cost is preferable except during jihaad in the Way
of Allah, in self-defense, to defend one’s family and to protect the oppressed; even when
the Qur’an permits it. This is because the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not strike with his
hands women, servants or anything except when in jihaad in the Way of Allah. This is
from among the tokens of prophethood; in that extreme ignorance from others only
increased him in forbearance as he was described in the Torah.
In the as-Shifa` Qadi `Iyad also related: “Once Zayd ibn San`a before he accepted
Islam came demanding that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬repay a debt to him.
He pulled his garment from his shoulder, seized hold of him and behaved roughly with
him and then said: ‘O son of Abd’l-Muttalib, you are procrastinating!’ Umar chased him
away and spoke harshly to him, while the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬merely smiled. The
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, then said: ‘Both he and I need something else from
you O Umar. Command me to pay back the debt in an excellent manner, and command
him to demand the repayment of his debt in an excellent manner.’ He then said: ‘I still
owe him three.’ Umar then commanded that he be paid, and the Prophet then added
twenty measures more since he had frightened him. That was the reason for Zayd
becoming Muslim. This is because he used to say: ‘Nothing remains of the signs of
prophethood except that I recognized it in Muhammad, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬except two which
I had not yet noticed: his forbearance overcoming his quick temper, and that extreme
ignorance only increased him in forbearance. I tested him for these and find him as he
was described.” Shihab’d-Deen al-Khufaaji added in the above story of Zayd ibn San`a
about the reason that he behaved with bad courtesy towards the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫هللا عليه وسلم‬: “He said to Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, when he ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
repaid his debt and increased him: ‘I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah, and
that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. Nothing induced me to behave the way you
saw me behave O Umar except that I had witnessed all of his descriptions mentioned in
the Torah except forbearance. So I came to test his forbearance and found him just as he
was described in the Torah. I now, call you O Umar as a witness that I have made these
dates and a portion of my wealth to be given on behalf of the poor among the Muslims.
Then all the people of his household accepted Islam, except one old man who had been
overcome with spiritual wretchedness.” This is from the descriptions of his forbearance,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was exceedingly sociable towards each one of
his Companions to the point where each of them assumed that he was the most
honored of the Companions to the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” In this he was following
the words of Allah ta`ala: “Be kind and generous towards others just as Allah was kind
and generous towards you.” This was a part of the excellence of his social interaction
with people, his refined courtesy and exceptional friendliness, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with his
family and Companions. The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to keep their
company and not alienate them. He showed honor to the nobility among the people, and
 appointed them to supervise their affairs. He was cautious of people and guarded with
them without abandoning his cheerfulness and good character with them. He used to pay
due attention to his Companions and gave each of those sitting in his assembly their
share of attention to the point where everyone sitting with him felt that he was the most
honorable of all those in his presence, or the dearest of them to him. He was patient with
whoever sat with him or came to him wanting something, until it was that person who
was the first to depart. Whenever someone asked for their needs he would never turn
them away except after fulfilling their needs or with conciliating words. He was the
most expansive of people in his cheerfulness and character until all people became the
same with regard to their rights; as Qadi `Iyad explicitly stated in his as-Shifa.
He, upon him be blessings and peace did this emulating the words of Allah ta`ala:
“It is by the mercy of Allah that you are lenient to them, for if you were harsh and hard
hearted they would flee from around you Therefore, pardon them, seek forgiveness for
them and consult them in the affair.” Indeed, in the assemblies of the Messenger of
Allah, upon be peace each of the Companions sitting in his company considered
themselves the most honorable of all the others. It was due to the kindness they
experienced from him that each of them considered that he loved them more than any
other. Thus, the meaning of his amiability (bast) is the expansion of his character, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬because he attained the highest limit and the essence of praiseworthy
character. Ali ibn Abi Talib once said regarding his description of him, upon him be
blessings and peace: “He was the most expansive of people with regard to his heart and
the sincerest of them with regard to his manner of speaking to people.” This means that
he was persistently agreeable, willing, compliant and rarely contradictory towards others
and never frivolous towards them. He used to behave with people sociably and in his
interactions with them he would behave with noble character until each of them assumed
that he was more honored, beloved and respected than all the people in his eyes.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was the most sensitive of people with regard
to his modesty…”; out of recognition of the all embracing knowledge and omnipresent
awareness of Allah by His words: “Wherever you turn, there is the Countenance of Allah,
verily Allah is Vast All Knowing.”. The concept of modesty linguistically is the opposite
of shamelessness (waqaaha) and means to be bashful out of modesty, to feel shame and
embarrassment. It has been related on the authority of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬that he
said: “Modesty is a branch of faith.” For, the modest person naturally is cut off by shame
from committing acts of disobedience. Even when he does not possess fearful awareness
of Allah, his modesty becomes like the belief which cuts him off from disobedience and
stands between the believer and it; as Abu `Ubayd al-Huwari said that Ibn al-Athir once
said: “Modesty is made a part of belief because belief is divided into compliance with
what Allah has commanded and avoidance of what Allah has prohibited. Thus, when
ceasing to do what is prohibited occurs as a result of modesty, then this is a part of
belief.” `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Modesty is a fine quality which makes a man avert his
face when something he dislikes happens or when he sees something that would have
been best to avoid than to do.”
Imam ar-Raghib said: “Modesty is the retraction of the soul from all that is
repugnant and to instinctively avoid it.” It has been related by Muslim in his Saheeh in
the chapter regarding the excessive modesty of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri who said: “He was more modest than a maiden in
her private quarters.” This prophetic tradition is sound and was related by others such as
al-Bukhari, at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Maja and `Iyad; in which the virtues of modesty is well
established. For, modesty is among the branches of belief, comprises all good and only
brings about excellence. It is for this reason that his modesty, upon him be peace was
more intense than a virgin girl in her secluded quarters; which means that he was
extremely modest before Allah ta`ala and His creation. For, the modesty of the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with Allah and His creatures was from his innate
fear of his Lord, his scrupulous piety and fearful awareness of him.
The meaning of his words: “…and the most humble”; is that he upon him be
blessings and peace was the most acute of people in his humility, taking precaution in
that from the words of Allah ta`ala: “I will turn away from My signs those who are
arrogant in the earth without right”; and from His words: “Likewise does Allah stamp
upon the heart of every heart which is arrogant and tyrannical”; and by His words:
“Indeed He does not love those who are arrogant.” Thus the phrase ‘tawaadu`u’
(humility), where the letter dawd is inflected with damma is to openly demonstrate that
one is base or lowly (wadee`). Humility means to lower oneself where a man who
humbles himself acts in a servile manner. Yusef was once asked: “What is the goal of
humility?” He said: “It is that you do not encounter anyone except that you see him better
than yourself.” As-Shafi` said: “Humility is a part of noble character, while arrogance is a
part of repugnant and debased traits. Humility gives rise to love and being satisfied gives
rise to being at ease.” Thus it means that he upon him be blessings and peace was the
least of people in self conceit and those of them most lacking in arrogance.
Among the signs of his humility as the author said is that: “He…” upon him be
peace: “…would never allow his eyes to be affixed on the face of anyone.” This was
evidence of his humility because affixing one’s eyes on the face of people is from the
signs of arrogance. For, he, upon him be blessings and peace never allowed his eyes to be
affixed on the face of anyone out of humility towards them. It is said that this was also a
sign of his modesty as well. It is said in the Ihya `Uluum ‘d-Deen: “A part of his modesty
is that he did not affix his gaze on the face of anyone, due to the severity of his
bashfulness.” It is said that this was a part of his humility, upon him be blessings and
peace as the author stated explicitly. The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse
about the modesty and humility of the Prophet:
“He is a generous Prophet, one who makes the spiritual Path lucidly clear
He is a beloved initimate friend, one piously devoted to Divine contentment
He is a sincere advisor, thoroughly modest, the master of humanity and facilitating
The call of his elevated station over all creatures is clear.
We will delight in him on a Day when all affairs will be immense.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace and the
signs of his humility which are a part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to mend
his own shoes, patch his own garments and serve his family.” This is evidence that he
upon him be blessings and peace was the most severe of people in humility towards
others. It says in the as-Shifa: “It has been related on the authority of A`isha, al-Hassan,
Abu Sa`id and others regarding his description, where some of them add something in
addition: ‘In his home he was always in the service of his family, tending to his own
clothes, milking his sheep, patching his garments, and carrying his produce from the
market places’.” It is related in a narration of al-Bukhari on the authority of Ibrahim on
the authority of al-Aswad who said: “I once asked A`isha: ‘What did the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬do while he was in his home?’ She said: ‘He was always in the service of his
family, but when the prayer came he would go out to the prayer’.” Adam ibn Ayaas
interpolated her saying: “…always in the service of his family” to mean ‘to be on duty’ or
‘in attendance’ for his family. In this is encouragement to be in a state of humility and to
avoid at all cost any signs of arrogance and self importance.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to answer the invitation of the free man
as well as the slave.” That is to say that he upon him be peace used to answer the
invitation to dine or to fulfill the needs of the most noble of his Companions in position,
lineage and wealth as well as the most plebian of them. `Iyad added in his as-Shifa:
“…and he used to answer the invitation of the male slave, the free, the slave woman and
the destitute.” This means that he would answer their invitations to come and eat with
them, or he would answer their invitation to their homes in order to comfort them, as a
means of instructions as well as a means of showing honor to his Umma, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
This was regardless if he was invited to a wedding reception, or other than that; or if the
one inviting him was a slave, freeman, wealthy or destitute. He, upon him be blessings
and peace said: “When anyone of you is invited by his brother, he should answer his
invitation.” For, he, upon him be peace, used to answer their invitations even when he
was invited to a far off place in the city or outside it. An antidote which demonstrates
how the Messenger of Allah, answered the invitation to dine with slaves, the dispossessed
and plebians, is in what was related by at-Tirmidhi and Ibn Maja on the authority of
Anas, may Allah be pleased with him that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once answered the
invitation to dine with a young boy slave who was employed as a tailor who served him a
bowl of fresh pumpkin which he no doubt enjoyed eating. He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to
instruct others by being kind towards people in whatever standard of living they
possessed. For, he never said: “How can I eat from what is in the hands of a slave, while
he is actually the possession of his master.” The author, the Professor Abdullahi,
mentioned the slave first in order to call attention to the explanation that he ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬used to answer the invitation of the plebian in spite of his lowliness with respect to
the status of the freeman. It says in the as-Shifa: “It has been related by Anas: ‘Once a
slave woman from the slave women of al-Medina took the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬by his hand; and he then walked with her where she wanted until he fulfilled all
of her needs’.” This is also evidence that he ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was the severest of people in
humility towards others.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…he used to accept gifts”; which means that he
accepted actual gifts but did not take hand outs or charity (sadaqa) because accepting
charity or alms was forbidden for him, the people of his house and his descendents upon
him and them be blessings and peace. The meaning of the phrase ‘hidaaya’ (gift) in this
context is that which is bestowed upon someone as a present (itahaf). Allah ta`ala says on
the tongue of Sulayman, upon him be peace: “Verily I am sending to them a gift”; that is
to say, that I am presenting to them a present. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the
authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “If I
am given a gift of a sheep’s foot I will accept it, and if I am invited to eat a sheep’s foot, I
will accept it.” The phrase ‘foot’ (kuraa`) in the context of this prophetic tradition is what
is below the knee up until the hoof. It is said that the foot is what is below the knob of the
heel in animals. It is also said that the foot refers to the end of anything. Finally, it is said
that the ‘foot’ here refers to a place noun, that is to say, Kuraa`’l-Ghameen which was
located in between Mecca and al-Medina. However, in all these interpolations the first
one is foremost. Thus, what was ultimately meant in this prophetic tradition is that he
used to accept gifts regardless of how insignificant they were and he would accept the
invitation even if he were invited to a far off place. “And”, Among the character traits
of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a part of the branches of faith is that:
“…he would suffice for gifts by giving them in return.” This means that he would
recompense gifts given to him by giving a similar one or one better, because the origin of
the phrase ‘suffice’ (makaafa’at) basically means ‘sameness’ (masaawaat) or ‘likeness’
(mimaathila). It has been related by al-Bukhari and an-Nisaai in the prophetic tradition of
A`isha, may Allah be pleased with her who said: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, used to
accept gifts and recompense them.” The meaning of ‘and recompense them’ is that he
would give a gift in exchange to those who gave gifts to him. Thus, the meaning of
‘recompense’ (thawaab) in this context is ‘remuneration’ (mujaazaat) and the least
amount of recompense is sameness in the value of the gift, as Ibn Hajr clarified. The
wisdom in the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬accepting gifts and giving gifts in
compensation was in order to bring about affinity of the hearts between humanity and to
induce mutual harmony in their circumstances, which is ultimately the most important
principle in Islam, since the achievement of affinity and love between Muslims removes
social affliction from them. This is based upon the prophetic tradition: “The giving of
gifts removes the delusions of the breast”; that is to say, the hatred which resides in the
breast, and its rancor which is the fundamental cause of disputes and disunity. This is
corroborated by his words upon him be peace: “Give gifts to one another and there will
be mutual love between you.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to visit the sick and infirm among the
destitute who had no one to look after them and he would serve them himself.” What
is meant by ‘who had no one’ is that they had no one who cared for them, or to take care
of them due to their lowliness. We cited previously from the narration of al-Bukhari that
a slave woman once took him by the hand and he went with her wherever she wished. In
the narration of Ahmad, he went with her in order to take care of her needs. In the
narration of Anas it is related that the woman in question had a problem with her reason
and she came to him and said: “I have a need from you.” He said: “Sit down O mother of
so-and-so in whatever road you like from the roads of al-Medina, and I will sit with you
until I am able to fulfill your needs.” She then sat down and the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
sat down with her until all her needs were met.” In this indicates the complete emersion
of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬into the affairs of the people, and his closeness to them in
connecting the rights to those deserving of them. It also indicates the extent of his
guidance to them by his words, deeds and his patience in enduring difficulties on behalf
of others. The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse about the innate
empathy and concern for others of the Prophet:
“He is a Messenger, the trustworthy one of Allah, thoroughly grateful to Allah
He is compassionate, tolerant and one who causes the places of worship to thrive
He is kind hearted, full of gratitude and the first of those who seek goodness
He is spiritualy elevated and firmly established and the last sent with Revelation
He is unprejudiced, hospitable, desirous of good for humanity and thoroughly pure.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would sorely miss those Companions who
were cut off from him for some reason.” This means that he would actually feel the
absence of his Companions, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with them, and would inquire
about them, or as a result of missing them he would set out to visit them, or send
someone to them in order to inquire about their circumstances. Ar-Raaghib said:
“Missing some one (faqad) is more specific than mere absence (`idam) because it is an
absence which comes after once being present (wujuud). Missing someone implies
reminiscing; however the reality of missing someone is recognizing the lost of that
person or thing; while reminiscing is recognizing the previous relationship had with that
person.” It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on the
authority of al-Husayn ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib on the authority of his father that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to solely miss his Companions and would question the
people regarding the conditions of the people. That is to say, that he upon him be peace
used to seek after them and ask about the circumstances of their absence. For if one of his
Companions were sick, he would visit them. If one of them had traveled, he would
supplicate for them. If one of them had died, he would seek forgiveness for them. When
he did not find his Companion sick, traveling or deceased; he would earnestly look into
their affairs in order to know the reason for their abscense. This is the meaning of the
words of the author, may Allah be merciful to him: “He would say: ”, that is to say that
he, the Messenger upon him be blessings and peace would say whenever he would miss
one of his Companions: ‘It is as if, O brother, you discovered in me or in our brothers
something you disliked’.” This means that “perhaps you discovered something hateful in
us and it is this reason that caused you to be absent from us, or to cut yourself off from
us”. For, his missing his Companions was a sign of his excellent companionship with
them. Although I have not been able to find the source of this above cited prophetic
tradition, there have been narrated ennumerous sound traditions which corroborate this
tradition in its overall meaning. The bottom line is that heartfelt missing of one’s close
acquaintances is among the traits of true friendship and marvelous companionship.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He never allowed two men to walk behind him at
all.” This means that he would follow behind his Companions, let them proceed in front
of him, while walking behind them. He did this out of humility, but also as an indication
that he was to them like a shepherd that urges them forward and motions to guide the
weak among those being shepherded. Thus, he would follow behind them as a shepherd
seeking to assist the weak and give assistance to the poor. It has been related by Ahmad
on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar who said: “I never saw the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬place his heels in the heels of any man.” That is to say, that I never saw
him walking behind another man as if he were following him. On the contrary, he would
walk behind him as if he were urging him on. The meaning of his words: “…if there
were three people walking he would walk between them”; out of humility towards
them. In this is a refutation against those who love rank among the ignorant, those who
are arrogant and conceited who naturally desire people to walk behind them. The
meaning of his words: “…and if there were a large group of people walking he would
walk ahead of some of them”; which means that he would occasionally walk among
them as if he were one of them because this is a part of the stamp of humility. However,
on most occasions, he would walk behind them out of humility and because the Angels
always walked directly behind him. It has been related by ad-Daarimi with a sound chain
of authority that he ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Leave what is behind me free for the
Angels.” In the narration of Ibn Sa`d on the authority of Jaabir he said: “Walk in front of
me and leave what is behind me free for the Angels.” It has been related by Ahmad on
the authority of Jaabir who said: “The Companions of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used
to walk in front of him and leave the space behind him for the Angels.” This was so that
the Angels could guard him from devils; and in order that he in turn could guard his
Companions from everything that could harm them.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was the quietest of people”; that is to say that
he was the most silent of them and would not speak except when he hoped there was
some benefit as it was cited in the as-Shimaa’il of at-Tirmidhi on the authority of al-
Hassan ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with them that he once said about his
grandfather, upon him be blessings and peace: “…he did not speak without cause.” For,
he upon him be peace, used to never speak without a necessity, whether it was for
religious or worldly reasons. He used to be very guarded in his speech and would not
speak unless there was some sensory or intangible advantage to be gained from it. The
phrase ‘sukuut’ (quiet) is called so when a person wants to speak but avoids it for some
reason. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever is silent is saved.” That is to say,
they are redeemed in their comprehension and judgements in this world and the
Hereafter.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…when he did speak he was eloquent without
being verbose.” That is to say that his speech was succinct along with being the essence
of fluency. Qadi `Iyad said that his speech upon him be peace was with: “…succinct
phrases, clear expressions, a purity of language style, sound meanings and no affectation,
for he was given comprehensive speech (jawaami`’l-kalam).” The meaning of ‘succinct
phrases (‘ijaaz maqtu`) is that he possessed the ability to articulate himself with brevity
but which contained in it countless meanings in spite of the few words. This is because
his speech, upon him be peace was free of every kind of verbiage and affectation. The
meaning of ‘without being verbose’ (ghayr‘t-tatweel) in this context is that he was given
comprehensive speech. For Allah gave him a powerful manner of articulation in that he
spoke with comprehensive words which contained extensive meaning while maintaining
succinctness from which deep intellects could extract treasures which astound the reason;
in that his speech was inclusive of marvelous and unprecedented wisdom which was
articulated with brevity and preciseness. This is like his words, upon him be peace:
“Actions are by their intentions”; and his words: “Regret is repentance”; and his words:
“The joyous person is the one who is admonished by the faults of others”; and his words:
“War is deceit”; and his words: “A person is with the one he loves”; and other than these
from his succinct speech and concise expressions which contain abundant meanings,
which have been transmitted in the extant Sunnan transmissions from him ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`,
may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse about the eloquence and virtue
of the Prophet:
“He is the path of salvation for all creatures, thoroughly equitable
He is cheerful in contenance, the doer of good and thoroughly sociable
He is the physician for creatures, guided and indignant towards disbelief
He is pervasive in spiritual illumination and abolishes all who show him enmity
He is the most eloquent of speech; there is absolutely no one like him.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…he was the most excellent of people in
optimism”. This means that he was the best of his Companions and of all other people in
maintaining a happy bearing and cheerfulness with people. For, he was not known to be
dispirited (mathbut) and morose (`ubuus), due to the innate goodness of his soul, because
maintaining a happy bearing is an innate part of noble character. Qadi `Iyad said in his
as-Shifa: “He was the most smiling of all the people, and the sweetest of them in nature,
except when the Qur’an was being revealed to him, giving admonition or a sermon.
Abdallah ibn al-Haarith said: ‘I never saw anyone more smiling than the Messenger of
Allah, ‫’صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” For, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never glared in the
face of anyone. It was narrated in a prophetic tradition that he upon him be peace once
said: “Your smiling in the face of your brother is a form of charity.” Qadi `Iyad also said:
“It is with this description that Ibn Abi Haala described him when he said: ‘He was
always smiling, maintaining an easy character, and forbearing. He was not harsh, hard
hearted, boisterous, lewd, fault finding or over praising of others. He would naturally
overlook that which was not his concern and there was no one more sociable than him’.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was never dismayed by anything from the
affairs of this world’s life.” This statement is actually an explanation of what the author
mentioned previously. For, the reason that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, was
the most excellent of the people in optimism is that he did not fear anything from the
affairs of this world’s life, he did not crave for anything from it, nor did he ever become
angry or frustrated because of anything from the affairs of this world’s life. This was due
to the insignificance that this world had in his heart and the extent of his austerity from it.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He wore whatever was available….” This means
that he wore whatever clothing he found present, as evidence of his thriftiness, his
satisfaction with what was available, his austerity and his contentment with little. The
meaning of his words: “…from what is lawful” is from lawful attire, because it was not
his custom to wear gold, silk, and ostentatious attire which manifested one’s beauty, or
which was worn for boasting and to exhibit one’s greatness. Qadi `Iyad said in his as-
Shifa: “In most cases he wore a cloak, coarse shirt and rough garments.” This means that
he wore what most of the people of his time wore in those circumstances, as evidence of
that, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬acted in the same manner as the normal people of his generation,
while adhering to the courtesies of prophethood. For, he did not seek to distinguish
himself from his Companions or even his servants in their manner of attire, as it will be
explained Allah willing. Qadi `Iyad also said in his as-Shifa: “Vanity regarding attire and
embellishing oneself conceitedly is not among the traits of nobility and refinement for
men. It is from the intrinsic traits of women. The praiseworthy traits of attire and dress
for men are: [1] purity of clothing; [2] being moderate in the style of dress; [3] he should
wear clothing which exemplifies his station as long as it does not detract from the dignity
of his spiritual state; and as long as it does not lead to notoriety from the two extremes of
extravagance (i.e. extreme poverty or extreme wealth) since the shari`a has censored
those two.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to ride whatever was possible for him to
ride”; and this was based upon the different circumstances. He would act at variance in
his worldly actions with respect to what was best in the interest of his own affairs and
best in the interest of his Umma. The meaning of his words: “…thus, sometimes he
would ride a horse”; that is to say, a stallion, based on what occurred with him in al-
Medina when an immense shout was heard in the city, and it was assumed that the enemy
had attacked al-Medina. He immediately mounted the horse of Abu Talha which was
inept and incapable of running swiftly. He went alone to investigate the noise, which was
evidence of his bravery and his lack of fear of his enemies. He did not find any danger
and he then returned. The meaning of his words: “…sometimes he would ride a camel”;
that is to say, a she-camel which he would ride during his long distance journeys due to
its strength and endurance in carrying burdens. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
in fact, had many camels as it was mentioned in the biographies of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫عليه وسلم‬. The meaning of his words: “…sometimes he would ride a mule.” This was
during engagement of war, and is evidence of his decisiveness and the strength of his
courage, since he could not flee from the enemy. This is corroborated by what occurred
during the day of Hunayn, when he saw the strength of the enemies and that some of his
Companions fled. He then mounted on his mule with the objective that they could not say
that he too had fled and that others beside him were braver. He did this because it is not
feasible for the mule to either attack or flee. The mule which he rode on that day was
named ‘Duldilu’, which was a gray male mule given as a gift to him from al-Maquuqas.
He also possessed another mule as it has been transmitted in the biographies of the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The meaning of his words: “…sometimes he would ride a
donkey.” This was during circumstances when he was resident in al-Medina as he took
care of his affairs and moved from place to place in the city which was near. He rode a
donkey due to its ease in riding it along with the fact that it demonstrated his lack of
arrogance and conceit. The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬owned a donkey which
he named Ya`fuur. The meaning of his words: “…and sometimes he would walk on
foot”, that is to say, he would walk on his two feet without riding a beast of burden. The
meaning of his words: “…either with shoes…” is that sometimes he would walk
wearing shoes. The meaning of his words: “…or barefooted” is that sometimes he would
walk on his feet without any shoes, as an indication of his humility; for his words: “he
would walk on foot either with shoes or barefooted” is proof for the extreme extent of his
humility with the servants of Allah ta`ala. The meaning of his words: “…in order to visit
the sick in the furthest parts of al-Medina” is that he would visit the sick while
walking in places that were far off, even to areas which were on the outskirts of al-
Medina; as evidence of his affection for the sick person, his compassion for him and his
concern for the whole of creation. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il
‘l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of Anas ibn Malik who said: “The Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to visit the sick.” This was in whatever circumstances they
were in, whether they were people of humble circumstances or slaves.
This is because the visiting of the sick is a confirmed Sunna, especially when
taking blessings from the one being visited, due to what is in it of bringing solace to
others and establishing affections between the hearts of people. It is said that it is a
collective obligation. It is also said that it is lawful to visit a protected person (dhimmi)
when it is hoped by visiting him that he will eventually accept Islam or when it comprises
some social welfare. It has been related by al-Bukhari that he upon him be blessings and
peace once visited a young Jewish servant who used to serve him who had become ill.
During this visit he presented Islam to him and he accepted it.
As for the Sunna in visiting the sick, he upon be peace would sit at the head of the
sick person, and ask about his circumstances by saying: “How do you find yourself?” or
“How were your circumstances when you awoke?” and words similar to that. Sometimes
he would say: “No doubt you will be purified as a result of this, Allah willing”; or “May
Allah make it atonement for you and a means of purification.” It has been related that he
upon him be blessings and peace used to place his blessed hand on the place which was
ailing and then say: “In the name of Allah, may you be cured of every sickness which is
afflicting you. May Allah cure you.” It has been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of
A`isha that when the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would go to a sick person or
when one was brought to him, he would say: “Remove the suffering O Lord of humanity.
Cure him for You are the One who cures. There is no cure except Your cure. Cure him
with a cure which does not leave behind any malady.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to love perfume” which means that he
used to love all kinds of fragrances. For perfumes include everything with which a person
applies fragrance to himself, such as frankincense, musk, saffron, rose water and the like.
It is for this reason that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would never refuse the gift of perfumes, as it
was related in the sound prophetic traditions. Qadi `Iyad said: “He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used
to love perfumes and nice fragrances and would utilize them often and singled them out
by his words: ‘I have been made to love from this world of yours: women; perfumes and
the coolness of my eyes has been made in the prayer’.” The perfume which he, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬used often was dhareera, which is a kind of perfume which originates in India,
which is well known and is a compound of different fragrances. It has been related by at-
Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il ‘l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of Anas ibn Malik who
said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬possessed a kind of dye with which he
would perfume himself.” An-Nisaai’ and al-Bukhari in his Tarikh related a prophetic
tradition on the authority of Muhammad ibn Ali who said: “I once asked A`isha: ‘Did the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to utilize perfume?’ She said: ‘Yes. He would use the more
masculine perfumes such as musk and amber’.” What is meant by ‘masculine perfumes’
(dhakaarat’t-tayyib) are those which are more appropriate for men, which are those
which do not have much color, such as musk, amber, rose, and camphor. The more
effeminate perfumes are those more appropriate for women, which are those which the
color is apparent and the fragrance is slight, such as khuluuq, saffron, and henna, as it was
transmitted in a prophetic tradition on the authority of Abu Hurayra.
 “And…” Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace
which are a part of the branches of faith is that: “…he used to dislike foul smells”,
which meant noxious odors from others. This is because it was his custom to converse
intimately with Angels upon them be blessings and peace, who love excellent fragrances
and dislike noxious odors; which is the opposite with malevolent demons (shayaateen)
that are attracted anf influenced by foul smells. Imam Zayn’d-Deen `Abd’r-Rahim al-
Iraqi said in his Alfiyya in poetic verse: “Perfumes and women were beloved to him, and
he disliked every noxious smell.” The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse
about the innate fragrance and virtue of the Prophet:
“He is immediate in nearness and yet far; his likeness has not been created
He is powerfully strong and yet lenient of character, innately compassionate
The depths of his soul, (by Allah!), is completely permeated with pure musk
Say: “That is the truth!” Say: “That is his welcoming door, it is never closed
The one of little fear of Allah, disobedient, should definitely have affiliation with him.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to take personal responsibility for the
poor”, which means that he would personally take responsibility for their affairs by being
liable for discharging their up keep, such as the People of the Suffa and others among the
destitute of al-Medina, as well as the wayfarers. This was because they were among his
neighbors and guest, upon him be blessings and peace. He was therefore concerned for
their circumstances in the highest regard. He did this emulating the words of Allah ta`ala:
“Verily the alms is for the poor and the destitute.” For, he, upon him be peace used to
give preference to the poor and the destitute over his own family members and close
relatives. It is for this reason that Abu Bakr as-Siddiq once said: “The Prophet is not to be
inherited from, for his inheritance belongs to the poor among the Muslims and the
destitute.”
It has been related by ad-Diya’ on the authority of `Ubaada ibn as-Saamit that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “O Allah make me live destitute. Make me die
destitute, and gather me among the company of the destitute.” He asked this from Allah
out of his innate compassion and deep empathy for the poor and the destitute. He, upon
him be peace, encouraged his Companions and Umma to show honor and respect to the
poor and destitute and to visit and attend their sick; in order to have their spiritual ranks
elevated with Allah. It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Umar ibn al-
Khattab that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “On the Day of Judgment
a voice will shout out: ‘Where are those who used to show honor and respect to the poor
and destitute?! Enter Paradise without any fear or grief!’ On the Day of Judgment a voice
will shout out: ‘Where are those who used to visit the sick among the poor and destitute
in this world?! They will be seated on minbars made from light, and will converse
intimately with Allah when the rest of humanity will be in the severity of the
Reckoning’!”
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to show respect and honor to the people
of bounty.” This means that he upon him be peace used to give the people of bounty their
rights from preference and honor. What is meant here by the phrase ‘the people of
bounty’ (ahl’l-fadl) are those who possess all kinds of spiritual excellences, nobility and
honor. Shaykh Muhammad ibn Qaasim said: “They are the people of knowledge and
religion.” Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “He used to show honor to the nobility of every
people”; which means he used to take care of them with what was befitting them as he
did with `Adiyy ibn Hatim and others.
The meaning of his words: “…in their characters…” is that he would honor
them with what was befitting them and give them their portion based upon their
characters. `Iyad said: “…he would appoint them over their people…”; which means that
he would appoint the nobility of the people and the people of spiritual bounty from
among them as governors over them, when they would return from him to their lands; as
he did when he appointed Malik ibn Namt over the delegation from Hamdaan.
This was a part of his conduct in recompense to the Umma, to give preference to
the people of bounty, with his permission, and would apportion wealth, rank, baraka and
spiritual transmission based upon their capacity in spiritual bounty in the religion. For
among them were those who came to him with a single need, others among them came to
him with two needs to be fulfilled, while others came to him with multiple needs. He
would thus, appoint these people to be preoccupied with seeing to their affairs and that of
the Umma, so they would not have to come to him, and so that they could inform them of
their requirements. He would say to those he appointed among them: “Now let those who
are present go and inform those who are absent.” Qadi `Iyad said: “It has been related by
Abu Qatada that the African delegation of the an-Najaashi arrived to the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬and he served them personally. His Companions said to him: ‘We will suffice
you from having to do that.’ And he said: ‘They were the ones who showed respect to our
Companions in Abyssinia, thus I desire to take care of them personally’.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would show affection for the people of nobility
by being generously kind to them”; which means that he would demonstrate his
affection for them by dispersing an allotment of the alms to them as Allah ta`ala says:
“…and those whose hearts are to be reconciled.” Imam Muhammad ibn Muslim az-Zuhri
said: “Those whose hearts are to be reconciled refers to those who accepted Islam among
the Jews or Christians, even if they were wealthy, that is to say, among the nobility.” It is
said that they are a group among the disbelievers who should be given alms in order to
reconcile their hearts to accepting Islam. Since some do not accept Islam by means of
force or the sword, but they come to Islam by means of generous gifts and acts of
kindness. It is said that it refers to those people who accepted Islam outwardly, but whose
hearts were not certain. Thus, it was appropriate to give them a portion of the alms in
order to affix Islam in their breast. It is also said that it refers to the people among the
immense leaders of the polytheists who had large followings. It was thus lawful to give
them a portion of the alms in order to reconcile their followers to Islam. The meaning of
the phrase ‘the people of nobility’ (ahl’s-sharf) in this context, are their leaders (za`eem).
He upon him be peace gave Abu Sufyaan ibn Harb one hundred camels and gave
his son one hundred camels as well. He, upon him be peace gave Hakeem ibn Hizaam
one hundred camels. He, upon him be peace gave al-Haarith ibn Hishaam one hundred
camels. He, upon him be peace gave Suhayl ibn `Amr one hundred camels. He, upon him
be peace gave Huwaytib ibn Abd’l-`Uzza one hundred camels and he gave Safwaan ibn
Umayya one hundred camels. He, upon him be peace gave Malik ibn `Awf one hundred
camels. He, upon him be peace gave al-`Alaa ibn Jaariyya one hundred camels. Each of
these people were among the leaders and nobility of the Quraysh, with whom he acted
generously in order to reconcile their hearts to Islam.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to show honor and respect to his
relatives”; which means the close relatives who included everyone connected to him by
lineage. This means that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to be kind and generous towards his
close relatives and would show his deep love for them. The meaning of his words:
“…and maintain ties with them” is that he would do so by being generous towards
them, staying connected to them by means of his compassion with them and taking
responsibility for their circumstances. By means of this he would maintain the natural
connection that is between him and those with whom he was connected by kinship and
marriage. He upon him be peace once said: “Whoever desires to elongate his years
should maintain the ties of kinship.” He also said: “Keep the connection with your
relatives, even if it is with merely giving the greetings of peace.” The meaning of his
words: “…without giving preference to them” that is to say without singling them out
and giving them partiality: “…over those superior to them” from among the remainder
of the people. This character is a part of the excellence of social interaction.
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “When his sister by way of suckling, as-Shayma’
was brought to him among the captives of Hawazin and made herself known to him, he
then spread out his cloak for her to sit upon. He then said to her: ‘If you like, you can stay
with me in honor and love, or I can provide you with sufficient supplies and you can
return to your people.’ She chose to stay with her people and he then provided her with
provisions. Abu Tufayl once said: ‘I saw the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬when I was a boy.
A woman approached him until she became close. He then stood and spread out his robe
for her and she sat upon it. I then said: ‘Who is that?’ They said: ‘She is his mother who
used to suckle him when he was a child.’ She was Anisa, famous as as-Shayma, the
daughter of al-Harith ibn Abd’-`Uzza ibn Rufa`a ibn Malaan ibn Nasira, the sister of the
Messanger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬by suckling, from her mother Halima bint Abu
Du’ayb ibn Abalah ibn al-Haarith ibn Shujanna ibn Jaabir.
In a transmission of Ibn as-Saa’ib that one day the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬was sitting when his father by suckling came up to him. He then placed part of
his attire for him to sit upon. Then his mother by suckling came to him and he placed part
of his attire for her to sit upon on his other side. Then his brother by suckling came and
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬stood and sat him in front of him.” The father of
the Prophet by suckling was the above mentioned al-Harith ibn Abd’l-`Uzza. As for his
brother by suckling, he was Abdallah ibn al-Harith. He had another sister whose name
was Hadaafa bint al-Haarith. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to show the respect and
honor because they were among his close relatives due to his compassion for them for the
exertion that Halima expended in nursing him. All of this is from the excellence of his
companionship with others and his fidelity towards his nearest of kin. The blood brother
and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to
both of them said in poetic verse about the tolerance and affability of the Prophet:
“He is affectionate, kind hearted, the possessor of majestic qualities and elevated
His miracles, among which was water flowing from his hand; are all beneficial
He is exalted in station among creatures and the very source of intercession
He is dignified from whom every place of spiritual ascent takes it source
He is mighty to whom there is a light from Allah which shines forth in illumination.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not alienate anyone.” This means that he
did not drive anyone away, nor did he ever encounter anyone with anything which would
cause them to be driven away. The expression ‘alienate’ (jafa’) is from the root of to
make remote from a thing. Thus, one alienates them when one pushes them far away. Its
etymological root means to abandon relationships and virtuous association. Al-Layth
said: “To alienate someone is to be committed to abandoning relationship with them. It is
from the word ‘jifaa’ (to distance) because distancing someone by actions is by not even
attempting to cajole them or to be tactful with them.”
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was by nature as Allah ta`ala says about
him: “with the believers kind and merciful.” He also said about him: “It is by the mercy of
Allah that you are lenient to them, for if you were harsh and hard hearted they would flee
from around you. Therefore, pardon them, seek forgiveness for them and consult them in
the affair.” His attributes, upon him be blessings and peace as described in the Torah says:
“He will not be harsh, crude and will not be boisterous in the market places. He will not
recompense evil with its like, but will pardon and forgive.” Qadi `Iyad said in his as-
Shifa: “He upon him peace once said to his Companions: ‘You were sent in order to bring
the Good News. You were not sent in order to alienate people’.” This means that you
were not sent in order to drive people away from Islam, by being overly strict and hard
hearted which would cause people to be driven away from you, disassociated with you
and to disperse from around you. Qadi `Iyad also said: “He upon him be peace once said:
‘Be accommodating towards one another, do not be difficult with one another. Facilitate
peace between one another, do not alienate one another’.” This means do not alienate the
people by being too difficult or so strict against them; and do not encounter them with
that which they would dislike, so in order not to drive them from accepting the religion
and following guidance. For he upon him be blessings and peace never alienated or
distanced himself from anyone, since he was sent as a mercy in order to extract people
out of darkness into the Light by the permission of Allah.
The meaning of his words: “…even when they did something with him which
necessitated them being alienated.” This is from those who had a tendency by nature to
act in a manner which alienated people, who lacked social courtesies, like the Bedouin,
who were naturally ignorant of the rights of Allah, the rights of the Messenger of Allah,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and their lack of knowledge of the courtesies of proper companionship.
Or it was from the tendency which human beings have of being ignorant of what is
obligatory upon them, like the Bedouin who snatched his attire or cloak until it left marks
on his neck, upon him be peace; or like the raising of the voice of Thabit ibn Qays ibn
Shamaas in his presence when he called him and spoke to him; or like some of the
Bedouin who objected to him such as Saud ibn Qays al-Muhaaribi; as well as the
remonstrations of his wives, such as A`isha, Hafsa and others against him. For all of these
kinds of behavior normally induce alienation. Allah ta`ala says: “O you who believe do
not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet, and do not call out to him in speech
the way you call out one another, or you will render your actions fruitless.” Allah ta`ala
also says: “Indeed those who seek to harm Allah and His Messenger, Allah has cursed
them in this world and the Hereafter and has prepared for them a humiliating
punishment”; and other than these from the verses which denounce demonstrating evil
courtesy with the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Yet, in all this the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬showed forbearance with their unpleasant courtesies towards him,
emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “Good and evil are not the same, so ward off evil
with what is better, so that the person with whom between you and him there is some
enmity, he can become like intimate friends”; and His words: “Treachery never ceases to
come from them, except a few. Therefore pardon and forgive them, for indeed Allah loves
those who are magnanimous.” Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was patient
with the harm from people, the hypocrisy of the hypocrites, the blame of the ignorant, the
shortcomings of people and their rudeness. Just as the resolute among the Messengers
were patient against the evils of their people, and the afflictions they brought against
them, until many of them were completely freed of their hypocrisy and faith became
sincere in their hearts, just as they had done outwardly. Thus, they became sincere in their
belief in Allah and His Messenger secretly just as they manifested their Islam outwardly.
All of this was the result of the patience that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬had with them
and his propensity for pardoning of them.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to accept the excuse of those who gave
excuses.” Those who offer excuses (mu`tadhar) are those who give excuses regardless
whether their excuses are true or not, and regardless if it was a part of his affair to accept
their excuses in spite of having to punish them for some offense or not holding them
accountable for it. This is because it is a part of the perfection of chivalry, as Shaykh
Shihab ‘d-Deen al-Misri said explicitly in his Naseem’r-Riyaad. The meaning of his
words: “…regardless of what they may have done”; is that he upon him be peace
would accept their excuses even when they were not valid, or even when their excuses
were treacherous or from their hypocrisy. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬accepted the
excuse of al-Jidd ibn Qays of the Banu Salma on the day of the military exercise of
Tabuk, when he said: “O Messenger of Allah you should grant me leave to stay home and
do not tempt me! For, by Allah! My people know that there is no man who is fonder of
women than I am. I fear that when I see the women of the Banu’l-Asfar that I will not be
patient in keeping from them.” The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬turned away
from him and said: “I grant you leave.” It was about him that Allah ta`ala revealed the
following verse: “And among them is he who said: ‘Grant me leave and do not tempt me’
However it is into temptation that they have fallen. Behold, Hell encompasses the
disbelievers.” He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬also accepted the excuses of the hypocrites on the day
of the military exercise of Tabuk as well, when they said: “Do not go out during the
heat.” They said this merely as an excuse to abstain from the jihaad, out of doubt
regarding the Truth and in order to frustrate the Messenger. However, he ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
accepted their excuses until Allah ta`ala exposed them as liars by His words: “They said:
‘Do not go out during the heat.’ Say: ‘The heat of Hell is more severe if they would only
consider.” He accepted the excuse of Haatib ibn Abi Balta`a when he wrote a letter to the
people of Mecca informing them of the route which the Messenger if Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬was to take on his way to conquer Mecca.
All this is from his kindness and mercy to creation and the excellent opinion he
held of them. For, he, upon him be peace used to accept the excuses that the people
proffered, and he did not complain about what they used to do. It has been related by
Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam in his al-Jaami` in the authority of Anas who said: “I served
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬for more than twenty years and he never made
even the slightest begrudging remark to me; and he never said to me regarding something
I had done: ‘Why have you done that?’; nor for anything I failed to do: ‘Why have you
abandoned it’?”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to kid around with women”; which means
he used to make banter (mazaha) with the women from among his wives, since it is not
lawful for the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and others to kid around with strange women. The
jesting with wives is a part of excellent companionship with them. Al-Quraab mentioned
on the authority of Abu ‘d-Darda’ that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said:
“Amusement is in three things: the disciplining of your horse; the shooting of your
arrows, and in your making jest with your family”; by the latter he meant ‘your wives;.
From a prophetic tradition from Hishaam ibn `Urwa on the authority of his father on the
authority of A`isha who said: “I once raced the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and I
beat him. Then once when I was carrying meat, I raced him again and he beat me. He
then said: ‘This was for that’.”
Included in the affair of kidding around with women is making foreplay, kissing
and sucking the tongue as a prelude to sexual intercourse. Imam as-Suyuti said in his as-
Shimaa’il as-Shareefa: “What is taken from this is that it is a confirmed Sunna to make
foreplay, kissing, and the sucking of the tongue as a prelude to sexual intercourse. And
the opposite is disliked. It has come to us in the transmitted narration related by ad-
Daylami on the authority of Anas going back to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
who said: ‘Three things are from those things which cause alienation: that a man takes
another man as his brother and then fails to learn his given name or honorific name; that a
man invites his brother for a meal and he fails to answer; and that conjugal relations
occur between a man and his wife, without him sending a message leading up to it, such
as kidding around and kissing. None of you should merely fall upon his wife the way
common beast do with each other’.”
The meaning of his words: “…as well as children” is that he upon him be peace
used to kid around with children. This means that he would joke around with them. The
reality of ‘joking around’ (daa`iba) is from a form of ‘making banter’ (mamaaziha) but it
is accompanied with actual playing (la`b), which is why this expression is applied
specifically with children. This is like when the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
joked with Mahmud ibn ar-Rabi`a al-Ansaari when he was five years old, who said about
that: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬splashed water in my face from the well
water of our house. At the time I was five years old.”
It was related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
used to kid around. Among that is that he gave a young boy an odd honorific name when
he said to him: ‘O Abu `Umayr!’ Regarding this story is that it was the usual custom for
young boys to be given birds to play with. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said to the boy:
‘O Abu `Umayr what did the nughayr bird do?’ He said this in jest because the bird that
the boy was playing with died, causing the boy to be sad. So the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
joked with him by saying: ‘O Abu `Umayr what did the nughayr bird do?’; in order to
cheer him up.” From this narrative we learn of the kind of joking that is lawful is that
which the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did. His joking was infrequent, but it was
done in order to bring about some advantage like cheering up the soul of the one being
addressed, amusing them, bringing about affection, removing fear apprehension.
Imam an-Nawwawi said: “Realize that the kind of joking which is prohibited is
that which is extreme and is continuous. This kind of jest causes excessive laughter, the
hardening of the heart, being preoccupied from the remembrance of Allah and reflecting
on the important affairs of the religion. In most times it leads to offending others and
results in hatred, the lost of one’s self-respect and dignity.” All of this is blameworthy
and prohibited as it has been related in a prophetic tradition related by at-Tirmidhi in his
Jaami` on the authority of Ibn Abass who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said:
“Do not make fun of your brother and do not joke with him excessively.” This means do
not joke with your brother by making mockery of him or lying upon him, as it has been
narrated by Ahmad and others on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “The servant will not ever believe with the totality of true belief until he
abandons lying while making jest.”
Then the author explains what is lawful in jesting by his words: “…and in that
he only spoke the truth”; that is to say, even when he was making jest. He would avoid
at all cost lying and all types of falsehood, such as deriding others, making mockery, and
obscenities; as it was taken from the prophetic tradition related by at-Tabaraani on the
authority of Ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Indeed I
sometimes make jest, but in that I only speak the truth.” In the narration of Abu Hurayra
he said: “The people once said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, are you actually joking with us?’
He said: ‘Yes, but in that I only speak the truth’.” In another narration: “He upon him be
peace was the most humorous of people and used to joke around, but in that he only
spoke the truth.” That is to say that he upon him be peace used to make jest and joke with
his Companions in his words and actions, as a means of being amiable and sociable with
them (ta’neesan lahum) and as a means of consoling their hearts where it did not cause
harm to anyone. In fact, it is also well known that the notables of the early community
used to joke with one another. About that it was said: “People are in a prison as long as
they do not joke with one another.” The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse
about the cordiality and affability of the Prophet:
“He is innately comprised of an overflow of goodness, for he is never gloomy
One who strikes with the Sword of Allah, and firmly established in virtuousness
He is naturally good-humored, but when he prays he is seriously stimulated
Illumination precedes his words and his words are never contradictory
Yet economical, words full of yearning from him, that are a fostering cure.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to see the people occupied in lawful
recreation and he did not object to it”; which means that he upon him be peace would
see some of his Companions, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with them involved in playing
some form of amusement permissible by the shari`a, and he would not object to that; as it
was related by al-Bukhari on the authority of the Mother of the believers, A`isha who
said: “Once the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬entered upon me, and with me were
two servant girls singing the poems of the battles between the `Aws and the Khazraj. He
then came and laid down on the bed and turned his face away from them. Then Abu Bakr
entered and rebuked me and them saying: ‘Are the wind instruments of Satan in the
presence of the Prophet, ‫ ’!?صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬Then the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
turned to him and said: ‘Leave them!’ However, when they took a brief rest, I ushered
them out. This was the day of the `Eid in which the Sudanese usually played with their
shields and lances.”
In another narration: “Abu Bakr once entered upon me, and there were two
servant girls from the Ansaar singing the customary poetry of the Ansaar which they sang
about the wars between the `Aws and the Khazraj. She said: ‘They were not actually
singing, (but reciting poetry)’. Then Abu Bakr said: ‘Is the wind instruments of Satan in
the house of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ ’!?صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬This occurred on the day of the
`Eid. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, then said: ‘O Abu Bakr! Every people
have an `Eid, and this is our `Eid’.”
It has been related by an-Nisaai’ and Ibn Hibban with a sound chain of
transmission on the authority of Anas: “When the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬arrived in al-
Medina, they had two days in which they used to celebrate by making amusement in
them, and he said: ‘Allah has exchanged those two days for two days better than them
and they are the day of al-Fitr and al-Adhaa’.” In these prophetic narrations is evidence
for the lawfulness of listening to the voices of young servant girls singing, even if they
are not owned by those listening, because the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not
object to Abu Bakr listening to them, but rather he objected to his objection of them
being listened to.
It has been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Salma ibn al-Akwaa` who
said: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, once passed by some of the Banu Aslam who were
competing with one another. The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, said: ‘Shoot O Banu Isma’il!
For verily your ancestor was an archer! And I am with the clan of so-and-so!” Then one
of the groups withdrew and stopped shooting. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
said: “What is wrong with you that you are not shooting?” They said: “How can we
shoot, when you are with them?!” The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, said: “Shoot! for I am
with all of you’!” In this prophetic tradition is proof of the merits of marksmanship,
constructive competition, and taking care in these with the intention of training for the
jihaad, military exercise, and the disciplining of the limbs for such. From this we
understand that having competition in marksmanship is not a sort of empty entertainment
and pointless amusement, even though it may seem so; but is the kind of entertainment
and amusement which is lawful.
It has also been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Hurayra, who said:
“We were present when some Abyssinians were making entertainment in the presence of
the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, with their lances when Umar entered. He (Umar) then
reached for some pebbles and began to stone them with them. He, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, said:
“Let them alone O Umar!” Subsequently, the silence of the Prophet, upon him be peace
during the entertainment of the Abyssinians in the masjid was evidence for its lawfulness
according to the shari`a. For this reason it states in the at-Tawdeeh: “The playing at
martial arts games is a Sunna because it is a preparation for encountering the enemies,
and disciplining of the people for that.”
There are many other prophetic narrations which clarify that he, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
used to see his Companions engaged in lawful games and amusement and did not object
to that. Rather, he encouraged them in that due to what was in it of disciplining and
training for the jihaad and other than that which brings benefit to the Muslims. However,
there are many of those who are associated with the Sufiyya who utilize this prophetic
tradition and the one regarding the two Abyssinian girls singing as evidence for the
permissibility for singing and dancing as a form of worship. It is sufficient to refute them
with the fact that the entertainment of the Abyssinians was a form of exercise and
training with shields and lances, and this was a custom of theirs for recreation, and not a
type of worship. The scholars differ regarding the permissibility of singing. A large group
from among the people of the Hijaz allows it, which is based upon a narration on the
authority of Malik, however, Abu Hanifa and the people of `Iraq said that it was
prohibited. The view of as-Shafi` considered it reprehensible, which is also the most
famous view of Malik. Those who consider singing permissible take reliance on this
prophetic tradition, while others refute them by citing that the kind of singing that the
Abyssinians did was that which spoke of bravery, fighting, adroitness in fighting and the
like, which has no corruption in it. This is in contrast to the kind of singing which
comprises provoking the lower souls towards evil and inducing them to that which is
false and obscene.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not elevate himself over his male servants
and female servants in food, drink or attire.” This means that he was not disdainful
and so arrogant not to walk, sit, eat with or resemble the indigent, the destitute and the
slave. This was a part of his humility even with his servants. He, upon him be blessings
and peace was the most astute of people with regard to genuine humility, as we
mentioned. For, he used to sit and eat with his servants and dress in the same attire as
theirs. He did not distinguish himself in his outward appearance from the conditions of
the common people. This was because, as we mentioned previously, he used to eat and
dress utilizing whatever was available from lawful food and dress.
It has been related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Umar that the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “An Angel from the heavens has come down to converse with me
which had not come down to converse with a Prophet before me and which will not come
down to converse with anyone after me. It was Israfil At that time Jibril was with me and
It said: ‘Peace be upon you O Muhammad.’ It then said: ‘I am a messenger of your Lord
to you. He ordered me to give you, if you like, the choice of being a slave Prophet; or if
you like, of being a king Prophet.’ I then looked at Jibril and he indicated for me to be
humble. I then said: ‘I choose to be a slave Prophet.’ If I had said: ‘I choose to be a king
Prophet’; then if I desired so, the mountains would have been transformed in to pure gold
for me.”
It has been related by Ibn Sa`d on the authority of Mother of the believers, A`isha
that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “I eat as a slave eats, and I sit as a slave sits.”
In another narration In another narration from the as-Shifa he said: “I am but a slave. I eat
like a slave and I drink like a slave.” In these two above cited prophetic traditions is
clarification of his innate servitude and humility, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. It has also been related
by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Abu Dharr that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬once said to him: “Sit with the people of affliction and the destitute, and eat with
them, as well as with your servants, so that Allah will elevate you on the Day of
Judgment. Dress in coarse attire and rough clothing so that boasting and pride does not
find a way of entering your soul.” The Messenger of Allah ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded
this kind of courtesy and even he likened himself to a indentured servant out of humility
for the sake of Allah. He did not behave with anything from the character traits of typical
rulers, in their eating, drinks, attire and other than these from the traits of the people of
this world’s life. He ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not consume his meals on dinning tables; close
his gate to others or put up social barriers as is the custom of rulers, the people of social
standing and leadership.
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “A moment did not pass without him performing
an action for the sake of Allah”; which means that a time never passed without him,
upon him be peace filling that time or moment with the remembrance of Allah, His
obligations, His superogatory acts, or his being preoccupied in taking care of the needs of
the people in what would ameliorate their affairs, either by his words, his personal actions
or his wealth. The meaning of his words: “…or in doing something that was required
of him to do such as seeing to the needs of his soul”; is that no moment passed except
that he filled it with reflecting upon the affairs of the Hereafter, taking care of the
financial necessities of his family, taking care of their needs and other than these from
righteous actions, whether it was to see to the needs of his own soul, those of his wives,
neighbors, Companions or others from those who had needs to be fulfilled.
It says in the as-Shifa: “When he, upon him be peace, would enter his home, he
would divide his time into three parts: one part he would devote to his wives; another part
he would devote to his soul; and the remaining part he would divide between his own
requirements and those of the people.” This means that he upon him be peace would
divide his time when he was in his home into three divisions. One division he would
apportion for Allah, His worship and reflecting on His Unseen kingdoms. Another
division he would apportion to his wives where he would see to the needs of their affairs,
correcting their concerns and being kind and considerate towards them. And finally, he
would apportion a division for himself regarding his food, drink, relaxation and other
than these which were essential for him. As for the division which he apportioned for
himself, he would also divide that even further by taking care of the needs specific to him
as we mentioned, and another division for the people and the rest of the Umma.
The bottom line is that the meaning of all of this is that no time or moment passed
except that he upon him be peace was not in a state of the remembrance of Allah. He,
upon him be peace used to remember Allah in every state and circumstance. He had a
remembrance of Allah ta`ala specific for every condition. When he awoke from sleep he
would remember Allah. When he dressed in his attire he would remember Allah. When
he entered the toilet he would remember Allah and when he came out from it, he would
remember Allah. When he sat to eat he would remember Allah, and when he stood up
from eating he would remember Allah. Whenever he would leave and come back to his
home, he would remember Allah. For, he upon him be blessings and peace would
remember Allah standing, sitting, and reclining, as it has been related by al-Bayhaqi in
his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the authority of Mu`adh that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Increase in the remembrance of Allah ta`ala in every state, for there is no
action more beloved to Allah and none more redemptive for His servants in this world
and the Hereafter than the remembrance of Allah ta`ala.”
This was his circumstance, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬during every moment from his times
and in every place. It says in the as-Shifa: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did
not sit or stand except in a state of remembrance.” This means that he upon him be peace
did not stand from any of his assemblies except that he would remember Allah by saying:
‘Glory be to You, O Allah, and with Your praises. There is no deity except You’; and
other than these from remembrance of Allah and supplications. All this is evidence that
he, upon him be blessings and peace was the furthest of humanity from heedlessness and
the closest of them to attentive awareness of his Lord. For, persistence in remembrance of
Allah was a part of his Livng Sunna. The khadim of the Messenger of Allah, Shaykh
Ahmadu Bamba, may Allah be merciful to him said in poetic verse:
“As for persistence in remembrance, that is indeed greater
than anything that the spiritual disciple can do an abundance of
I say that without any veiled or hidden paraphrasing
and without the least concern of the criticism of those who object
And I say that whoever abandons the remembrance of GOD
for the remembrance of anything else, then he is a fool, without doubt.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to often go out to visit the gardens of his
Companions”; which means he would visit their date gardens or plantations and other
than these from fruit farms; like the two gardens of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud and the garden
of Anas ibn Malik and others. The meaning of his words: “…and eat from them” is that
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would go out to their gardens in order to eat from them. He
would also enter them to enjoy the cool shade and to drink from its springs. The meaning
of his words: “…with the sole aim of conciliating their souls”; is that the Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬used to do this as a way of showing honor, respect and to demonstrate his
esteem of them; as well as to show kindness to them by behaving with correct courtesy
towards them and to manifest his love for them. All of this was evidence of his excellent
companionship, sociability, courtesies and the vastness of his character with his
Companions, may Allah be pleased with them.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He never showed contempt for the destitute.” The
meaning of ‘contempt’ (haqar) is ‘to belittle’. For, he never belittled those who were
destitute as a result of their demeaned circumstances and weaknesses. On the contrary, he
honored them, showed gentleness to them, demonstrated his empathy for them with
kindness and mercy, and gave them their rights which Allah required for them from his
wealth, as He says: “Verily the alms are for the poor and the destitute.” For, the meaning
of ‘the destitute’ (maskeen) is the one who is overcome with dreadful circumstances and
is humiliated as a result of poverty and want. It was thus, obligatory upon him and those
who believed to show kindness towards them with their selves and their wealth as Allah
ta`ala says: “…and be kind and openhanded towards parents, the nearest of kin, the
orphan, and the destitute, and say kind words to humanity.” This means that Allah ta`ala
has ordered the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and the believers to be generous and
kind towards those who are destitute, whose needs have become desperate and whose
circumstances have become degraded. It has been related by Muslim on the authority of
Abu Hurayra on the authority of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said: “The one who
endeavors on behalf of the widows and the destitute is like the one who struggles in the
Way of Allah.” In another narration: “…is like the one who stands in prayer without rest
and who fast without stopping.” It has been narrated by Ahmad on the authority of Abu
Dharr that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Be merciful to the destitute.” This means to
be generous towards them and to honor them and not show disdain towards them or
belittle them. The reason that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not show
disdain towards the destitute is because whoever honors and respects them, Allah ta`ala
will honor and respect him in this life and the Hereafter; and elevate his spiritual rank
with Allah ta`ala. It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Umar that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “On the Day of Judgment a voice will shout out: ‘Where
are those who used to show honor and respect to the poor and destitute?! Enter Paradise
without any fear or grief!’ On the Day of Judgment a voice will shout out: ‘Where are
those who used to visit the sick among the poor and destitute in this world?! They will be
seated on minbars made from light, and will speak directly to Allah when the rest of
humanity will be in the severity of the Reckoning’!” Another reason for him not showing
disdain for the destitute is because in reality there is no distinction in the essence of
people except by means of their fearful awareness of Allah. Rather, it has been
transmitted in many prophetic traditions that he upon him be blessings and peace
considered the fearfully aware among the destitute superior in rank to the wealthy among
them. It has been related by at-Tabaraani in his al-Awsat as well as Abu ‘s-Shaykh in his
at-Thawaab on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: “O Allah make me die with You while I am poor, and do not make me die wealthy.
And gather me on the Day of Judgment among the group of the destitute. For, verily the
truly wretched are those who have gathered in themselves poverty and destitution in this
world’s life and the Punishment of the Hereafter.”
The meaning of his words: “…and he did not venerate rulers because of their
worldly kingdom.” The expression ‘veneration’ (hayba) is showing high esteem (ijlaal)
and awe (mukhaafa). You venerate a thing when you show esteem for it, fear it and
respect it. For, he upon him be peace did not have high esteem for any ruler or any other
person who possessed authority because of their authority and rank; especially if the ruler
was a disbeliever. On the contrary, he showed his esteem for the people of true faith as a
result of their belief, whether they were from the notables or the common people. It has
been related in a prophetic tradition of `Ubayd ibn `Umayr that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “True belief is something to be esteemed.” This means that one
should show veneration for the people of belief, because they themselves have esteem of
Allah and fear Him. In another narration he said: “The believer is esteemed.” This means
that he is venerated because he has esteem for Allah ta`ala, and thus people are made to
have esteem for him until they respect him. It is well known that the Prophet, upon him
be peace had high esteem for the an-Najaashi, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him due
to his belief, justice and the assistance he provided for the Muhaajiruun, not for his
worldly kingdom.
The meaning of his words: “For, he would invite that one and that one” is that
he would invite the destitute and the ruler, the poor and the wealthy, the common people
and the notables, the most powerless of the people and their elite; and did not distinguish
between the upper classes or the lower classes in calling them to Allah ta`ala. The
meaning of his words: “…to Allah with a single invitation.” This means that he would
invite them to belief in Allah, the One without partner, to the religion, fearful awareness,
and righteous deeds by which people are not distinguished from one another except by
means of them. It has been related in a fundamental prophetic tradition that he, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “He who is retarded by his actions will not be expedited by his lineage.” It
has been related by Imam Ahmad and al-Bayhaqi in a prophetic tradition going back to
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said: “No one has superiority over another
except in religion and fearful awareness of Allah.” In another narration related by the two
above narrators he said: “No one is superior to another except by religion or righteous
deeds.” It has been related by al-Bayhaqi that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said in his sermon at the Farewell Pilgrimage: “O mankind, verily your Lord is One and
your father is one. The Arab is not superior to the non Arab, nor is the non Arab superior
to the Arab, nor is the Red superior to the Black, nor is the Black superior to the Red,
except by means of fearful awareness of Allah. Indeed the most honorable of you with
Allah are those who are the most fearfully aware of Him.”
The meaning of his words: “…and he never insulted anyone”, is that the
expression ‘insult’ (shatam) is to abuse someone and to use obscene language against
someone. For, he upon him be peace never spoke to anyone insultingly or abusively or
with any other kind of repulsive language. Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with
him said regarding his description as it was cited in the as-Shifa: “He was not
discourteous, harsh, and boisterous or fault finding.” This means that his essential
character, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was not severe and menacing towards anyone. He did not raise
his voice very loud during disputes, nor did he speak obscenely to others by insulting
them, or mentioning the faults of others or diminishing them. In a prophetic narration
transmitted by Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nisaai’ and others going back to the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said: “Do not show disdain for anyone in
anyway even when his sins are known. When you speak to your brother and he confronts
you straight forward; or when he insults you by what is known to be true about you, do
not insult him with what you know to be true about him. For in the end his reward will go
to you and the fault of the insult will revert back to the one who initiated it.” It has been
related by at-Tabaraani that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Shall I not
guide you to the most noble of character in this world and the Hereafter? It is that you
connect with the one who cuts you off; that you give to the one who withholds from you;
and you pardon the one who acted unjustly towards you.” In another narration the
following is added: “…and that you forgive the one who insults you.” In the narration of
al-Bazaar it states: “…and that you show forbearance to the one who acts ignorantly
towards you.” All of this is evidence of the nobility of the social courtesies of the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with all people; be they the most notable of them or the most
common of them. He behave and interact with all of them with dignity and respect. The
blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be
merciful to both of them said in poetic verse about the nobility of characret of the
Prophet:
“He is blameless, judicious on behalf of creatures, miraculous
A born leader, the intercessor of humanity; in ranks of dignity, he is victorious
The times of the beloved of Allah was a period of pure spiritual joy
The bridle of the highest abodes are in his hands; none to contest with him
He is unblemished, thoroughly purified in his actions and natural disposition.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not find fault with any kind of bedding at
all.” This means that he never disparaged any kind of sleeping arrangement. The
expression ‘bedding’ (madja`) refers to a couch or cot upon which a person normally
sleeps or reclines upon. From its root derives the word ‘adtaja`a’ (to take one’s repose)
or to sleep (naama). It literally means to lie down by placing the sides upon the earth.
For, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was completely submerged in the state of
servitude (`ubuudiyya), and it is only proper that a servant take his repose on any place
befitting him, as the Messenger, upon him be peace said: “I sit as a slave sits.” This
means he sat directly upon the earth. Similarly, he took his repose in the same way that a
slave took his repose. For this reason the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never
disparaged any kind of bedding.
The meaning of his words: “…for when bedding was spread for him he would
take his repose.” This means that whenever his wives, close relatives or Companions
spread out for him bedding, he would lie down upon it without having any problem in his
heart regarding it. A prophetic tradition has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-
Shimaa’il ‘l-Muhammadiyya giving evidence of the description of the bedding of the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬where it states: “It has been related on the authority of A`isha
who said: ‘Verily the bedding of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬upon which he
slept was made of dark tanned leather padding filled with palm fibers’.” The expression
‘adam’ (dark) is the plural of ‘adeem’ and refers to leather which has been tanned.
Shaykh Ali al-Qaari said in Jama` al-Wasaa’il: “The bedding referred to in the
prophetic tradition, is not what he would choose for himself. He only slept on it out of
difference to his wives. Other than that in most cases he slept on the earth.” This is
evidence of his austerity regarding the matters of this world, and his contentment with
little from it. This is further corroborated by what the author said next: “…if not he
would simply sit upon the earth…”, which means if they did not spread out bedding for
him to sit or recline upon, he would simply sit upon the earth; because this was his
customary Sunna as we mentioned earlier by his words: “I sit as a slave sits.” It has been
related by at-Tabaraani in a sound prophetic tradition on the authority of Ibn Abass who
said: “He used to sit upon the earth and eat while sitting on the earth.” This means that
he, upon him be peace, used to sit directly upon the earth without any obstacle between
him and the earth, and he used to eat directly from the earth without a mat or table. He
did this as an indication for people to desire simplicity in outward matters, in order to
divert people’s resolution to constructing the affairs of the inward and in order to purify
the hearts; as as-Suyuti said in his as-Shimaa’il as-Shareefa. The meaning of his words:
“…and lay down on it” is that he would simply recline and take his repose upon the
earth, or place his blessed sides upon the earth, out of humility and meekness; also
because this was healthier and sounder for his body and more beneficial for rising to
stand in the night for his vigils which was his confirmed Sunna practice. It should not be
understood from the words of the Shaykh: “Other than that in most cases he slept on the
earth” to mean that he upon him be blessings and peace slept directly upon the bare earth
without anything underneath him. This is because there is no prophetic tradition or
narrated reports which give evidence of that. It is well known, that he, in most cases only
slept upon something made of straw, leather or the like. This, however, is not an
objection to sleeping directly upon the bare earth because it has been transmitted that
when he, upon him be peace, saw Ali ibn Abi Talib sleeping on the earth in the masjid,
that he praised him, and gave him the honorific name of ‘Abu ‘t-Turaab’ (Father of
Dust), since his sleeping in the masjid on the earth was the nearest to humility (tadhallal)
and meekness (itidaa`) and the furthest from arrogance (kibriyya) and haughtiness
(ghatrasa).
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
sometimes slept on a cot made of palm rope which left marks on his side.” This meant
that his sleep was normally upon a cot made from cords of palm fiber which would be
placed directly upon the earth without bedding, lining or cushions between him and it. It
is for this reason that the palm fibers would leave marks on his sides, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
This alone is evidence of his contentment with little from this world’s life, his satisfaction
with whatever was available and his lack of disparagement for whatever bedding was
spread for him upon him from Allah be the best blessings and most perfect peace.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was very accommodating, pardoning and
forgiving”; which means that he did not recompense evil with evil, but rather he would
pardon people and forgive them, as it was stated explicitly in the previously cited
prophetic tradition of Abdallah ibn `Amr ibn al-`Aas, that he upon him be peace was the
most pardoning of people; as A`isha said that his character was that of the Qur’an. That
is to say, he behaved in accordance with the Qur’anic behavior emulating what Allah
ta`ala says to Musa and Haarun, upon them be peace: “So speak to him with lenient words
so that he will be reminded or have fear of Allah”; also emulating His words: “Take the
way of pardoning, command the practical and turn away from the ignorant”; also
emulating His words: “They should pardon one another and forgive one another. Do you
not desire that Allah will forgive you?”; also emulating His words: “Indeed your
pardoning one another is nearer to fearful awareness of Allah”; and also emulating His
words: “Therefore pardon them and forgive them. Indeed Allah loves those who are
magnanimous.”
All of these Qur’anic verses order the excellence of forgiving others, overlooking
their faults, and being magnanimous in confronting their evils, even in the face of
disbelievers, the People of the Book and the hypocrites. Allah ta`ala says: “Therefore
pardon them and forgive them until Allah brings about His order.” This means that Allah
ta`ala commanded the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬as well as the believers to forgive the
People of the Book, the polytheists and hypocrites and to pardon them until Allah brings
His order. The ‘bringing of His order’ came with the revelation of the verse of the Sword
in the chapter al-Bara` where Allah ta`ala says: “Fight those who do not believe in Allah,
nor the Last Day, who do not forbid what Allah and His Messenger forbid, like the
People of the Book who do not practice the religion of Truth; until they hand over the
jizya by hand and they are subdued.” This is an abrogating verse which abrogates
excusing offenses in some circumstances. For Allah establishes in it the command to
fight the People of the Book until they accept Islam, or surrender the jizya.
It has been related by al-Bukhari, Muslim, Ibn al-Mundhir, Ibn Abi Haatim, at-
Tabaraani and al-Bayhaqi in his ad-Dalaa’il on the authority of Usama ibn Zayd who
said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and his Companions used to pardon the
offenses of the polytheist and the People of the Book as Allah ordered him to be patient
against their offenses.” In the same prophetic tradition he said: “The Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬continued to pardon the offenses of the disbelievers as Allah had ordered
him until Allah gave the permission for him to fight. Thus, by means of him Allah ta`ala
fought those among the audacious of the Quraysh.” This order to fight, however, did not
prevent him from normally being kind, tolerant and indulgent towards the believers and
the rest of the people who did not seek to harm Allah and His Messenger upon him be
blessings and peace. Allah ta`ala says: “It is by the mercy of Allah that you are lenient to
them, for if you were harsh and hard hearted they would flee from around you. Therefore,
pardon them, seek forgiveness for them and consult them in the affair.”
 It has been related by Ibn al-Mundhir on the authority of Abu Salma that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “A man does not pardon those who act unjustly
towards him except that Allah increases him in honor. Therefore pardon others and Allah
will honor you.” It says in the as-Shifa: “Among the major reports of his pardoning of
people is his pardoning of the Jewish woman who poisoned him by means of the sheep
that she fed him after having confessed, based upon the soundest of the narrations.
Likewise he did not take Labid ibn al-`Aasim to account for using magic against him,
although he knew it and was informed through revelation of the explanation of his affair.
He did not even upbraid him, let alone punish him for it. Likewise he did not take
Abdallah ibn Ubayy to account and those like him from the hypocrites, in spite of the
immensity of the crimes they had committed against him in words and deeds. On the
contrary, he said to those who encouraged him to have some of them killed: ‘No. Let it
not be said that Muhammad killed his Companions’.” It has been related by ad-Daraqutni
in his al-Afrad on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬once said: “The true believer is lenient in his devotions to others by being
expansive towards his brother; while the hypocrite is alienating by being constricted with
his brother. The believer always initiates giving the greetings of peace, while the
hypocrite says: ‘I’ll wait until the greetings of peace is given to me’.” Imam Ali ibn Abi
Talib, may Allah ennoble his countenance, said in poetic verse:
“Be the companion of tolerance in every setting
For tolerance is only the best of comrades and companions
And be guarding of the contract of friendship and nurturing it
You will taste from the perfections of refuge, the finest of remedies.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to always initiate the greetings of peace
to those whom he encountered”; which means that he used to begin the greetings with
all those he encountered, out of innate humility towards people; because it is a part of the
Sunna for those more notable in character to give the greetings of peace to those less so
in order to respect them and elevate them. This is because greeting of peace is a form of
supplication as well as greetings. It is your saying: ‘as-salaamu alayka’ (peace be with
you); ‘as-salaamu alaykum’ (peace be with you; pl.); or ‘as-salaamu alaykum wa
rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu’ (peace be with you, and the mercy of GOD with His
blessings) and more than that, as it has been transmitted in the biography of the Prophet,
upon him be peace.

Thus, it means that he upon him be peace used to be the first to initiate the
greetings of peace with everyone he encountered regardless if they were young or elderly
Muslims, except in those circumstances in which it is not highly recommended to give
the greetings of peace, such as during the prayer and while relieving oneself in the toilets.
Allah ta`ala says: “And when those who believe come to you with Our signs, say: ‘Peace
be upon you’.” He says: “When you greet one another, then greet one another with the
best greetings, or return the same. Indeed Allah is reckoning over all things.” For the
initiating of the greetings of peace is the head of humility and the most important rite of
faith. Grammatically the word greetings (tahiyya) is originally a verbal noun; which
carries the meaning of ‘hayyaaka Allahu’ (may Allah give extend your life); and was
greetings people used during the period of ignorance. However, when Islam appeared,
this greetings was exchanged for the giving of peace.
Thus, the meaning of His words: “When you greet one another”, is that when you
say: ‘as salaamu `alaykum’ (peace be with you), “…then greet one another”; that is give
greet those being greeted, “…with the best greetings”; that is to say that you should say:
‘as-salaamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu’ (peace be with you, and the
mercy of GOD with His blessings) “…or return the same”. This means that you should
say the same greetings in return. One of the two options is an obligation, but the first
option is the most superior one; as the author, the Professor, may Allah be merciful to
him said in in his Qur’anic exegesis Diya ‘t-Ta’weel.
The initiating of the greetings of peace is the apex of genuine humility and it is
the most important aspect of the rites of genuine faith. Initiating the greetings of peace is
what distinguishes those who have spiritual bliss among the People of Allah from the
people of spiritual wretchedness. It is a confirmed collective Sunna because it is among
the well known essential rites of of Islam, whose promotion in the general society has
been confirimed. It is thus, the consensus of the scholars regarding the obligation to
return the greetings of peace to every Muslim, because to abandon it is a form of insult to
a Muslim.
There have been many sound prophetic traditions related regarding the virtue of
initiating the greetings of peace. It has been related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan
and others on the authority of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬once said: “The one who initiates the greetings of peace is free of arrogance.”
Abu Dawud related on the authority of Abu Usama that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “Indeed the foremost of the people with Allah are those who initiate the
greetings of peace.” This is because initiating the greetings of peace according to the
consensus is a Sunna and not an obligation. However, when two men meet, then the one
who first initiates the greetings of peace is the one who is the most virtuous in faith and in
character.
The author, the Professor, may Allah be merciful to him said in his exegesis of the
Qur’an: “When one person in a group of people returns the greetings, then it removes the
obligation from the rest of the people in that group. But if all of them abandon returning
the greetings of peace, then they all have committed a sin. The one riding should give the
greetings to the one walking. The one walking should give the greetings to the one sitting
or standing still. A small group of people should give the greetings to a larger group, and
the younger person should always give the greetngs to an older one.” This was
corroborated by what has been related by Ibn Hibban and others on the authority of Jaabir
ibn Abdallah that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Customarily the one
riding should initiate the greetings to the one walking. The one walking should initiate
the greetings to the one sitting. The few should initiate the greetings to the many and the
younger should always initiate the greetings to those older. When two people walking
encounter one another, the one who initiates the greetings of peace, is the one who is
superior in virtue.”
The jurists disagree regarding the lawfulness of giving the greetings of peace to
the disbeliever. Some of them say that it is prohibited, because it is a greetings utilizing
the Divine Name of Allah – Salaam (the Peace); and this kind of greetings is specific to
the believers. However, they permit giving the greetings to disbelievers with any kind
and considerate greetings other than the Divine Names of Allah. Some of the jurists say it
is lawful to give the greetings to the disbeliever with the Peace of Allah or with any of the
other Divine Names, especially if the objective is to invite them to Allah. Some of the
jurists permit initiating greetings with disbelievers when trying to fulfill one’s needs.
While some of the jurists, permit initiating the greetings to the disebelieve unrestrictedly
because it is a part of the excellence of Islam.
It has been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr that a
man once asked the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Which Islam is the best?” He
said: “Feeding food and giving the greetings of peace to those you know and those you
do not know.” This means that no one is to be distinguished due to arrogance or due to
affectation, but rather the greetings of peace should be given to everyone because it is a
fundamental rite of Islam and the responsibility of Muslim brotherhood.
If it is said that the general nature of the expression of the above prophetic
tradition includes the disbeliever, the hypocrite and the sinner; then the answer is because
this is specified by means of other extenuating evidence, or that the prohibition of giving
the greetings of peace to disbelievers is a latter judgment. Thus, the giving of the
greetings of peace to all people is a general rule which is appropriate for inducing mutual
affection between people. As for the one who doubts whether this is appropriate or not,
the general ruling of giving the greetings to all people must persist until the exception has
been established. Thus, a person is required to give the greetings of peace to anyone he
encounters and this ruling is not specific for those people that he knows.
In this principle lay the fundamental origin of being sincere towards Allah in
one’s actions, behaving in all actions in a state of humility and the disseminating of the
greetings of peace, as a fundamental rite of this Islamic Umma. Because the giving of the
greetings of peace is a universal quality specific for Muslims; it it is this idea which lay
behind those who hold to the lawfulness of initiating the greetings of peace to the
disbeliever utilizing the Divine Name - Salaam. However, there is no legal evidence for
this because the original shari`a ruling of this particular greetings of peace is specific for
Muslims, and originally it nor any of the other Divine Names of Allah should be initiated
to the disbeliever. It should be said to the disbeliever who gives the greetings of peace
using any of the the Divine Names of Allah: “And to you as well.” It is also permissible,
and some say it is highly recommended to initiate the greetings to the disbeliever without
a Divine Name of Allah.
The author, the Professor, may Allah be merciful to him said in his exegesis of the
Qur’an: “The legal ruling of women giving the greetings of peace to other women is the
same as that for men. However a man should not give the greetings to a young woman
who is unknown.” Ibn Bataal said regarding the lawfulness of giving the greetings of
peace to people unknown, is in order to open the door of friendliness to those being
addressed so that mutual brotherhood can be established between all the believers, and so
they will not be alienated from one another.
The author, the Professor, may Allah be merciful to him said regarding the issue
of the Prophet initiating the greetings of peace: “…and would shake their hands”; is
that he upon him be peace would be the first to initiate the greetings of peace and then
shake the hands with his Companions and others. The shaking of hands accompanied
with the greetings is permissible and highly recommended. It is for this reason that author
connected it to the inititating of the greetings of peace. It means that he upon him be
peace would initiate the greetings of peace with his Comanions and others by also
shaking their hands. That is to say, he would place his noble hand in their hands.
It says in the Taaj’l-`Uruus: “A man shakes the hand of another man when he
places his palms in the palm of the hand of the other where the two palms are clasping.”
The shaking of hands is a part of noble character and a part of the Sunnan of the Prophets
and the righteous when meeting others. It has been related in the Makaarim’l-Akhlaaq on
the authority of Jaabir that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “A part of the noble
character of the Prophets, the champions of truth, the martyrs and the righteous is to be
cheerful when visiting others, to shake hands and to be welcoming when meeting others.”
The shaking of hands is a part of the completion or perfection of giving greetings
which is from the rites of Islam and an immense part of the Sunna of shaking hands is
that it be done with the right hand. It has been related by Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi, al-Haakim
and others on the authority of Abu Umama that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: “Complete the greetings of peace between you by shaking with the right hands.”
That is to say, when a Muslim meets another Muslim he should give him the greetings of
peace, and a part of the completion of this greeting of peace is to place his right hand in
his brother’s right hand and shake it; because the shaking of hands is a confirmed Sunna.
Further, the shaking of hands of the Messenger of Allah, upon him be peace with
his Companions was his way of showing mercy to them and seeking forgiveness for
them. It has been related by al-Hakeem and Abu’s-Shaykh on the authority of Umar ibn
al-Khattab that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When two Muslims meet
each other and one of them gives the greetings of peace to his companion, then the one
who is the most beloved to Allah of the two is the one who is best in showing genuine
cheerfulness. And when they shake hands, Allah sends down on them one hundred
mercies, where the one who initiated the shaking of hands gains ninety of those mercies
and the one with whose hands he shakes receives ten of them.” It has been related by
Ahmad, that he upon be peace said: “There are never two Muslims who meet one another
and shake hands except that they are forgiven of their sins before they separate.” That is
to say, before they physically separate, or before they finish shaking hands, which is the
more apparent meaning.
In another narration from Abu Dawud he upon him be peace said: “When two
Muslims meet one another and shake hands, praise Allah and seek forgiveness of Allah,
they will be forgiven.” For, it is highly recommended during shaking hands to praise
Allah ta`ala and seek forgiveness of Him, by saying: “May Allah forgive us and you.” It
has been related by Ibn as-Sunni on the authority of Anas who said: “The Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never took the hands of a man to shake it and then depart from him
without saying: ‘O Allah give us good in this life and in the Hereafter and save us from
the punishment of the Fire’.”
The shaking of hands (musaafaha) is an unbroken Sunna when meeting one
another. The Companions, themselves, may Allah be pleased with them used to do it, and
when anyone of them returned from a journey they would hug one another in addition to
shaking hands. The Messenger of Allah, upon him be blessings and peace initiating
shaking of hands of the with his Companions is clear evidence of his innate humility, the
refinement of his relationship with them and the excellence of his character. In the
shaking of hands with the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬there was mercy, baraka,
a form of intercession and it was something highly sought after by his Companions, may
the contentment of Allah be upon them. It is for this reason that there have been
transmitted sound chains of authority from them regarding the shaking of hands in a
consecutive chain back to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
All praises are due to Allah and with the best of His assistance, I have been
included in this blessed chain of authority since I shook the hands of our spiritual guide,
the jurist and khateeb Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam Kari`angha ibn Muhammad
Tukur ibn Muhammad Sanbu ibn Muhammad Leeli ibn Abu Bakr ibn al-Amir
Muhammad Sanbu Darneema, the descendent of the ruler of Hadijiyya. He shook hands
with his father Shaykh Adam Kari`angha. He shook hands with Shaykh Musa al-Muhajir.
He shook hands with the Imam, Khateeb and jurist Ali ibn Abu Bakr. He shook hands
with the light of the age, the renewer of the religion Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` and his
brother, the author, the professor Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`. They shook hands with
Shaykh Abu’l-Amaana Jibril ibn Umar and his noble son Abu’t-Tawfeeq Umar. They
shook hands with Abu’l-Fayd Muhammad Murtada al-Husayni al-Waasiti. He shook
hands with two shaykhs who transmitted this chain. The first was Shaykh al-Burhaan
Ibrahim ibn Ahmad. He shook hands with his father Shaykh Ahmad ibn al-Husayn. He
shook hands with his father Shaykh al-Husayn al-Amjad al-Khaafi. The second one was
that Shaykh Abu’l-Fayd Muhammad Murtada al-Husayni al-Waasiti shook hands with the
jurist Shaykh at-Tamimi al-Hanifi. He shook hands with Shaykh al-Mujallid. He shook
hands with Shaykh al-Waleedi. He shook hands with Shaykh Ahmad Lebnon. He shook
hands with Shaykh Abu’l-Wafiyyi Ahmad ibn al-Ijli. He shook hands with Shaykh Abd’l-
Baaqi az-Zujaaji. He and the above mentioned Shaykh al-Husayn al-Majdi al-Khaafi both
shook hands with Shaykh at-Taaj al-Uthmaani. He shook hands with Shaykh ar-Ramzi.
He shook hands with Shaykh Ali al-Awbahi. He shook hands with Shaykh Mahmud. He
shook hands with Abu Sa`id Sa`d ibn Malik al-Khudri. He shook hands with the Prophet,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. All praises are due to Allah who has entered us into the blessings, the
mercy and forgiveness comprised within this blessed chain of authority.
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to
him said as it was related by Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Muhammad al-Kunawi: “What we
have experienced of divine blessings in the chain of authority of the hand shake are three
things: the connection of our hands with the hand of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
redemption from the Fire, and entrance into the Paradise.” For, I took this chain of
authority of the hand shake from my teacher, the jurist Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam;
and I say about him what the Shaykh of our Shaykhs, Sayyid Muhammad Murtada az-
Zabidi say of his teacher:
“It is on his authority that I transmit the chain of the hand shake
With a chain of authority not dishonored by any contention.”
All praises are due to Allah who has included us in the baraka of the chain of
authority of the hand shake going back to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, from
the direction of our own righteous ancestors. All praises are due to Allah and the thanks
are to Allah for connecting us to what we had been disconnected from, “and for cutting
off the final remnant of those who acted unjustly towards us; and all praises are due to
Allah, the Lord of the worlds”.
O Allah! I ask you by the sanctity and baraka of this chain of authority in the
hand shake and by the baraka of those in that chain, that you connect my hand, the hands
of all of my children, their mothers, and the hands of all my love ones with the hand of
the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, redeem us by means of this connection with him from the
Fire and enter us by means of it into the Paradise of the Righteous without any reckoning.
And be, my Lord, the way You were with Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` when he said in his
ad-Daaliyya:
“So take hold of the hands of an insignificant sinful slave
O my Support, O my Guardian, O my Object of desire.1
O Lord, if you do not show pardon, then destruction will be my right
The unyielding punishment of the Fire will befall me there.2
So I have come to Your door, O my God, so redeem me
On the Day of Standing from the flaming punishment.
I have realized that my Lord has opened wide
His doors due to His generosity for the one who desires it.
So be an intercession to me from the dreadful Angels of punishment
O my Creator, O my Deliverer, O my Master.
Make it easy for us to visit the grave of our Prophet
Make it convenient O my Master, the visiting of Ahmad”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He could not be readily recognized when sitting
in the assemblies with his Companions.” This means that he upon him be peace did not
take a known place special for him when sitting with his Companions and he prohibited
anyone else from doing so. It says in the as-Shifa: “He never made any claims to any
specific locales to sit and actually forbade others doing so.” That is to say, that he upon
him be peace forbade taken a specific local or place as one’s own special place. What is
intended here is adhering to a specific spot, when that location is not your actual
property, like a spot in a masjid, or any other location which is lawful for all people;
because every locale in such places are a right to everyone. It has been related by Ibn Abi
Shayba and others going back to the Companions that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
forbade a man taking a place in the masjid as his personal space. It is said, however, that
this is lawful for the scholar or the jurist who exercises legal judgments to be fond of a
specific place in the masjid for the purpose of passing legal judgments or giving
instructions in religion, as Abdallah ibn Umar, Imam Malik, al-Layth and others did.
The meaning of his words: “…because wherever he found a place in the
assemblies to sit, he would sit.” This means that when the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
wanted to sit in the assemblies of his Companions, he would sit down wherever the
assemblies ended in whatever place was empty without stepping over the shoulders of
any of his Companions. It says in the as-Shifa: “He upon him be peace used to command
the people to behave this way”; which means he used to order his Companions with this
kind of courteous behavior while in their assemblies as a way of instructing them in the
shari`a and teaching them correct propriety. He would forbid them taking specific places
in the assemblies only for themselves, because of what is in that of arrogance, love of
rank, and exalting oneself over the people, as we see the venial scholars of these times
doing. For, the Messenger of Allah, upon him be blessings and peace used to sit in
whatever place was empty, based upon his innate humility, his excellent companionship
with others and in order to guide his Umma.

1
Here ends facsimile 2 of manuscript A.
2
Here ends facsimile 6 of manuscript B.
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “The majority of his sitting would be facing the
direction of the qibla.” He would do this emulating the general meaning of the words of
Allah ta`ala: “We have seen you turning your face towards the heavens, so We have
appointed for you a qibla, which you will be pleased with. So turn your face in the
direction of the Sacred Mosque and wherever you may be, then turn your faces in its
direction.” Imam al-Qurtubi said in his al-Jaami` Li Ahkaam’l-Qur’an: “The Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to always love to face in the direction of the Ka`ba, thus
Allah ta`ala revealed: ‘We have seen you turning your face towards the heavens, so We
have appointed for you a qibla, which you will be pleased with. So turn your face in the
direction of the Sacred Mosque and wherever you may be turn your faces in its
direction’.” Thus, by means of these two verses Allah ta`ala made it incumbent upon the
believers the necessity of facing the direction of the Sacred Mosque during their prayers
wherever they may be on the earth of Allah ta`ala. It also made it highly recommended
for them to face the direction of the Sacred Mosque in the remainder of times, like when
making supplication, and other than it among the social transactions, except when
relieving oneself, out of respect for the qibla and to sanctify it. This is because the qibla
is the master of locales and the noblest of locations in the earth of Allah. It is thus highly
recommended to face in its direction whenever possible. The Knower of Allah Abd’l-
Wahaab as-Sha`rani said in his al-`Uhuud’l-Muhammadiyya: “It has been related by at-
Tabaraani in a prophetic tradition with an excellent chain of authority that he upon him
be blessings and peace said: ‘Verily everything has a leader, and the leader of all
assemblies is sitting facing the direction of the qibla’. In another narration from him as
well: ‘Everything has its nobility and the nobility of assemblies is in facing the direction
of the qibla’.” It is for this reason that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬loved to face the direction of
the qibla and the majority of his sittings was in its direction.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would show honor and respect to everyone
who entered upon him”; which means that he would show respect and honor to every
person who entered his assemblies and his home, whether it was some of his Companions
or others, because regarding the latter, it was his custom to honor strangers. He would
thus honor them by sometimes standing for them, and showing them specific acts of
refinement, such as his habitual standing for his daughter, Fatima, may Allah ta`ala be
pleased with her; and his standing for Sa`d ibn Mu`adh, may Allah be pleased with him,
and his saying about him to his Companions: “Stand for your master.” That is to say,
stand for the one who is above you in knowledge, benevolence and spiritual bounty. Ibn
Shimayl said: ‘The master is the one who is above others in intellect, wealth and
advantages. He is the one who expends his wealth in its rightful places for the spiritual
advantages which are specific to him. It is for this reason he is called a master.’ `Ikrama
said: “The master is the one who conquers his anger.” Qatada said: “He is the servant
who is scrupulously pious and benevolent to others.”
The meaning of his words: “…and he gave preference to them by spreading
out for them…”; is that he would give preference to whoever entered upon him by
spreading his clothing out for them to sit upon, showing his esteem for them, as he did for
`Adiyy ibn Haatim, and his own sister by suckling, as it will be mentioned. The
expression ‘eethaar’ (giving preference) means to give to others selflessly and put others
before oneself in certain matters, as a way of showing honor to them.
The meaning of his words: “…pillow…” is that which is used to cushion, or
which is placed under the head as a cushion. This means that he upon him be peace
would give preference to those who visited him by giving them the pillow which was
under him; or he would give preference to them by offering them the cushion that he sat
upon. In the as-Shifa it adds: “…and he would insist that the person sit upon it whenever
the person refused…” which means he would swear by Allah that the person should sit
upon the cushion by saying: ‘By Allah you should sit down.’ He would say this when the
person refused to sit down out of modesty before the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬.
The meaning of his words: “…and he would show him his due share of
cheerfulness”; is that he upon him be peace would show everyone in his assemblies his
due share and portion which was his right from kindness, by having a happy demeanor
with them, answering his questions and initiating what was required to make them feel
happy and positive by behaving with them with excellent character. Again, in the as-
Shifa it adds: “…until each person sitting in his assemblies considered that there was no
one among those sitting in the presence of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬that
was more honored than him.” This means that each person sitting with Prophet, upon him
be peace assumed that they were the most honored and respected of the people with him,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, due to what they experienced from his kindness and excellent character
towards them. The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poetic verse about this innate
elevated nobility of the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
To Ahmad belong all the good that a human being can contemplate
Due to his high esteem, everyone seeks him out as an intermediary
Because of his Night Journey, everyone in existence is subservient to him
Due to his nobility and benevolence, his prophetic banner engulfs the multitude
Because of his exalted rank, he will be the first to be given the authority to intercede
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would give his Companions honorific
names…”; which means that he upon him be peace would give his Companions
honorific names (kunya), out of respect and esteem for them, either using the names of
their fathers, or by using names specific for them. In the as-Shifa it adds: “He would give
his Companions honorific names and would call them by their most beloved names as a
means of showing honor to them.” This means that he upon him be blessings and peace
would specify honorific names for his Companions, such as ‘Abu’t-Turaab’ for Ali ibn
Abi Talib, ‘Abu Matee`’ for Nu`aym ibn an-Nihaam al-Qurayshi, and ‘Abu Hurayra’ for
Abdallah ibn Sakhr. This is because calling a person by an honorific name is a way of
showing respect to them. It is for this reason that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to give
honorific names to those who had none, as he did with Abdallah ibn Mas`ud who said:
“The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬gave me the honorific name of ‘Abu Abd’r-Rahman’ even
before I had an offspring.” He, upon him be peace would also call them by the most
beloved of names as a means of honoring them. He called Hamza ibn Abd’l-Muttalib
‘Asadullah’ (the lion of Allah) due to the severity of his courageousness and valor in
military engagements. He called az-Zubayr ibn al-`Awaam ‘Huwaari Rasuulullahi’ (the
disciple of the Messenger of Allah), due to the assistance he single handedly gave to the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. He called Abdallah ibn Abass ‘Habr’l-Umma’ (the scholar of
the Umma), due to the vastness of his knowledge and astuteness of his intellect. He called
Abu `Ubayda ibn al-Jaraah ‘Amin’l-Umma’ (the trustee of the Umma), due to his
trustworthiness and the soundness of his fidelity. He named Khalid ibn al-Walid
‘Sayfullah’ (the sword of Allah), due to the force of his gallantry and intrepidity of his
heroism, as it was well known. And there were many others cognomens from the beloved
and most respected names that he upon him be peace ue to give to others. He called them
with these beloved names in order to show respect to them, honor them and demonstrate
the esteem he had of them; but also as a way of being kind to them, showing correct
courtesy with them, and giving recognition of their virtue and spiritual bounty with Allah
ta`ala.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He was the furthest of people from anger and he
was the swiftest of them in contentment.” This means that his anger was something that
was rarely seen from him and only occurred from him after excessive offenses. It is
related in the prophetic tradition of A`isha who said: “Whenever the prohibitions of Allah
ta`ala was violated he was the severest of people in anger regarding that.” This was in
contrast to his innate contentment, upon him be peace, because he was normally pleased
easily and swiftly with the least of things, due to his generosity in pardoning and
forbearance. This was because he behaved with the behavior of Allah in that he was a
mercy from Allah, whose mercy superseded His wrath. It has been related in the
prophetic tradition that he upon him be peace said: “The believer is slow to anger and
swift in contentment.” This, of course, is in anything outside the rights of Allah.
However, even in that, the anger of the believer does not lead to rage and fury. This does
not in any way contradict what as-Shafi` said: “Whoever sees something worth being
angry about and does not become angry is a donkey; and whoever sees something
pleasing and is not pleased is a devil.”
The meaning of his words: “…he was the kindest of people towards people…”
This was because Allah ta`ala made him as a mercy and kindness to His creation. The
author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` said in his Ta`leem’l-Anaam regarding Allah’s
praise of him by His words: “There has come to you a Messenger from among
yourselves, dear to him is what afflicts you, deeply concerned for you and who is to the
believers kind and merciful.’ In this is an indication that his people were aware of his
nobility, his superiority over them, his truthfulness, trustworthiness, his dedication to
giving them sound advice, the concern he had for their guidance, the severity of his
dislike for what afflicted them in this world and the Hereafter, and his innate kindness
and mercy towards the believers among them; for, Allah gave him two names from His
own Names (…kind and merciful). There are His words: ‘Whoever obeys the Messenger
has in fact obeyed Allah.’ For, Allah knew of the inability of creatures to obey Him by
themselves, so He placed between Himself and them a creature from their own genus,
and dressed him from His own attributes ‘kindness’ and ‘mercy’; and then made
obedience to him like obedience to Himself. There are His words: ‘We have not sent you
except as a mercy to all the worlds.’ For whoever has attained anything from his mercy,
then he is redeemed in the two worlds. For he, upon him be peace, is a mercy to all
creation, from their humans and jinn, by means of his guidance to the believers, and his
postponing of the punishment for the disbelievers.” Thus, Allah ta`ala gave him two
names from His own Divine Names: “…kind and merciful” and means as Ka`b ibn Malik
said in poetic verse:
“We obey a Prophet and we obey a Lord.
The Lord is All Compassionate, and he is exceedingly kind to us.”
Jareer said in poetic verse:
“He saw that the Muslims had a right upon him
Like the right one has upon a parent - kindliness and mercy.”
It has been related by al-Haakim on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “I am a mercy given by Allah as a gift.” Abu
Bakr ibn Taahir said: “Allah ta`ala beautified Muhammad with the adornment of mercy,
thus his very existence was a mercy and all of his virtues and attributes were a mercy to
the whole of creation.”
The meaning of his words: “…and he was the most beneficial of the people to
the people”; is that he upon him be peace was the most useful and most advantageous
(ajdaa) of humanity to them through the favors he afforded them, and he was the most
helpful of them in providing good to them. This was because he was the causative factor
for their obedience to Allah ta`ala. He was the means by which they surrendered to Him
and the prime agency by which His mercy reached them. Allah ta`ala says: “If you were
to attempt to count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them.” The scholars have
said regarding the exegesis of this verse that it refers to the favors of Allah by reason of
Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Abu Muhammad Mekki,
Abu’l-Layth as-Samraqandi and others narrated that when Adam committed his slip he
said: ‘O Allah by the truth of Muhammad forgive me of my mistakes.’ In another
narration he said: ‘…and accept my repentance.’ Then Allah said: ‘From where did you
know of Muhammad?’ He said: ‘I saw in every place of Paradise written: ‘There is no
deity except Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.’ In another narration:
‘…Muhammad is My servant and messenger’; so I knew that he was the noblest of Your
creation to You.’ Then Allah relented towards him and forgave him as a result of his
words. This is one of the interpolation of Allah’s words: ‘…and Adam received words
from his Lord, and He relented towards him, indeed He is the Relenting the Merciful.’ In
another narration he said: ‘Adam then said: ‘When You created me I lifted my head up to
Your Throne and there was written upon It: ‘There is no deity except Allah, Muhammad
is the Messenger of Allah.’ I knew then that there was no one who was more immense in
status with You than he whose name had been placed in conjunction with Your name.’
Then Allah revealed to him: ‘By My might and majesty! He is the last of the Prophets
from your descendents. If it were not for him, I would not have created you’.”
This means that the spirit of Muhammad, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was created before the
spirit of Adam and before the creation of all the spirits. All the Prophets were created as a
result of Muhammad’s creation and his existence is the causative factor for their
existence. In this context, Muhammad is the father of meaning to them, since all of them
are subsequent to him in existence, as the Knower of Allah, Shaykh Ahmad ibn
Muhammad al-Misri explained. It is for this reason that he upon him be blessings and
peace was the most beneficial of mankind to mankind, rather, he was the most beneficial
of all of Allah’s creation to His creation.
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He worked alongside his Companions with his
own hands in digging…”; which means that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬worked with
his own hands alongside his Companions, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with them in the
digging of the ditch and on other occasions. The meaning of his words: “…the ditch…”
refers to what occurred on the day of the Confederates (al-Ahzaab) in the month of
Shawwal in the fifth year of the hijra when a group of Jews from the Banu’n-Nadir and
the Banu Waa’il organized a confederation against the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. They then went out and presented their plot to the Quraysh of Mecca, inviting them
to make war against the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The Jews said to them: “We
will stand by you until we are able to get him.” The Quraysh then said: “O party of the
Jews! You are from the first of the People of the Book. You know what has transpired
and caused the dispute between us and Muhammad. So is our religion better or is his
religion better?” They said: “On the contrary, your religion is better than his religion.
You are foremost with the truth than he is.”
It is about them and their words, that Allah ta`ala revealed His words: “Have you
not seen how those who have been given a portion of the Scripture believing in idols and
false deities, and how they say to those who disbelieve: ‘These are more guided in the
way than those who believe’? They are those whom Allah has cursed, for whoever Allah
curses he cannot find any helper. Or do they possess a portion of Sovereignty? Then in
that case, they would not give mankind even the speck from a date stone. Or are they
envious of mankind for what Allah has bestowed upon them from His bounty? For, We
bestowed upon the House of Ibrahim, the Scripture, Wisdom and We gave him an
immense kingdom. Among them were those who believed in him and those who turned
away. Hell will suffice them for their burning.”
When they said what they said to the Quraysh, they were elated with their words
and were animated for what they invited them to in making war against the Messenger of
Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. They thus all became united in that and their numbers were
augmented in their enmity towards him, upon him be peace. Then these groups of Jews
then left them and went to Ghatfaan where there resided two parties of the Banu Qays.
They invited them also to make war against the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
which they accepted. When the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬heard of this and
their confederation against him, he had a ditch surrounding al-Medina drawn up, based
upon the indication of Salman al-Farsi, may Allah be pleased with him. Thus, the
Muslims set out to dig the ditch and the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬worked
alongside them with his hands in order to encourage the Muslims in attaining their Divine
recompense. It was during this time that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬struck and broke
into pieces a huge white stone, which prevented the people from digging. It was on that
day as a result of the working of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬alongside his
Companions that many amazing miracles occurred. The blood brother and spiritual guide
of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said in
poetic verse about astounding miracles of the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
The stones glorified Allah while in his palm
And water flowed freely from the fingertips of Ahmad.
The wolf bore witness to his prophetic delegation in reality
Even the gazelle of the remote desserts answered that Guide.
The lizard yielded to him and then testified to his mission
And even the trees came and knelt in the direction of Muhammad.
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “Whenever he would rise from his assemblies he
would say…”; that is to say, that whenever he stood from his assemblies with his
Companions, his guests or others, he would customarily say something emulating the
words of Allah ta`ala: “…and glorify and praise your Lord whenever you stand…”; as a
way of teaching correct courtesy to his Companions, instructing them, and as a form of
atonement for whatever may have occurred in his assemblies of heedlessness, evil
courtesy, excessive talk devoid of the remembrance of Allah, and in order to elevate their
spiritual ranks if the discussions of the assemblies were good.
The meaning of his words: “…: ‘Glory be to You…”, is freeing You of anything
which is not befitting You of idolatry and anything else. The meaning of his words: “…O
Allah and with Your praises…”, is that the expression: ‘O Allah’ is a rhetorical phrase
because the expression: ‘and with Your praises’ is connected to the expression: ‘Glory be
to You…’, either by means of it being a conjunct to it, where it means: ‘I glorify and I
praise You, Allah’; or it is connected to it by means of being a circumstantial phrase
where it means: ‘I glorify You, Allah, praising You.’ Al-Khataabi said: ‘His words, upon
him be peace: ‘…and with Your praises…’ where the particle ‘waw’ is prefixed to the
phrase is as Ibn Khilad informed me when he said: “I once asked az-Zujaaj about the
meaning of that and he said: ‘It means: Glory be to You, O Allah and with Your praises I
glorify You’.” It is mentioned in the al-Muraqaat: “The words of az-Zujaaj are inclusive
of two perspectives. The first one being that the particle ‘waw’ indicates a circumstantial
phrase (haal). The second is that it is actually a particle of conjunction (ataf), where the
entire phrase is a verbal sentence (jumla fi`liyya) carrying the implications of: ‘I free You
completely of any defaults and I glorify You with a glorification which is connected to
giving thanks to You’,”; where the expression: ‘O Allah’ is a rhetorical expression
(muta`arida). The particle ‘baa’ which prefixes the expression: ‘…and with Your
praises…’; is either a causative expression (sababiyya) and a genitive particle (jaar)
connected to an implied verb; or it is a contiguous expression (ilsaaqiyya) where the
genitive particle (jaar) and the genitive noun (majruur) are circumstantial phrases (haal)
of the active agent of the sentence (faa`ilihi).
Ibn ‘l-Malik said: “The expression: ‘Glory be to You’ is actually a noun (ism)
which stands in the place of a verbal noun (masdar), that is to say, ‘tasbeeh’
(glorification) and is made accusative (mansub) by the verb concealed in it and carries the
implications: ‘I glorify You with a glorification’, and means: ‘I free You of every
imperfection and defect. It is said that it carries the implication of: ‘I glorify You with a
glorification adorned and connected to praises of You’, because the particle ‘baa’ is
utilized to indicate concomitant circumstances (malaabisa), while the particle ‘waw’ is
utilized to indicate addition. It is said that the particle ‘waw’ means ‘along with’ (ma`a),
where the expression means: ‘I glorify You accompanied with praising You’. The bottom
line is that the expression is a negation of negative attributes from Allah and establishes
positive attributes to Him.”
Shaykh Abu‘t-Tayyib Muhammad al-Abidi said: “The grammatical meaning of
‘Glory be to You’ is that it is accusative (mansuub) because it is a verbal noun
(masdariyya). The expression: ‘…and with Your praises…’; is connected with an omitted
phrase indicating glorification. That is to say: ‘…and with Your praises I glorify You.’ It
thus means: ‘It is by means of the success You grant me, the guidance You give me and
Your bounty upon me, that I glorify You, not by means of my power or might’.” Al-
Qurtubi said: “In this expression emerges another perspective which implies the
continuity of the meaning of praise in its original context, where the particle ‘baa’ is
utilized to indicate causality and means: ‘By reason that You are described by the
attributes of perfection and majesty that all glorifying things glorify You and all exalting
things exalt You’.”
The meaning of his words: “…I bear witness that there is no deity except
You…”, where he restricts the testimony to this single phrase and does not mention the
accompanying testimony of messengership, although this is implied. This is similar to
when you say: “I have recited the al-Hamd”; when you really mean the entire chapter of
al-Faatiha. Or the expression actually affirms messengership by circumstance because
whoever makes the single testimony does so following the command emanating from
messengership.
The meaning of his words: “…I seek forgiveness from You and turn to You in
repentance”; is that he upon him be peace said this as a proxy (naa’ib) for his Umma,
because he, as a Prophet, was infallible who was forgiven for what proceeded and what
was to come of sins. Thus, Allah ta`ala ordered him to seek forgiveness for his Umma by
His words: “…and seek forgiveness for them…”; and by His words: “…and the
Messenger seeks forgiveness for them…” It has been related by at-Tirmidhi and others on
the authority of Abu Hurayra, may Allah be pleased with him that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever sits in an assembly in which his talking is
excessive, should say before he stands from that assembly: ‘Glory be to You O Allah and
with Your praises. I bear witness that there is no deity except You. I seek forgiveness
from You and turn to You in repentance.’ He will not stand except that he will be
forgiven for what transpired in that assembly.” It has been related by Abu Dawud and
others on the authority of Abu Barza, may Allah be pleased with him, whose real name
was Nadla who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to say in his final
years when he wished to stand from an assembly was: ‘Glory be to You O Allah and with
Your praises. I bear witness that there is no deity except You. I seek forgiveness from
You and turn to You in repentance.’ A man once said: ‘O Messenger of Allah! Indeed
you said something that you did not used to say in the past.” He said: “This expression is
atonement for what transpired in the assembly.” In the narration of al-Haakim in his al-
Mustadrak he relates a similar transmission by way of A`isha, may Allah be pleased with
her. His saying: ‘Glory be to You O Allah and with Your praises. I bear witness that there
is no deity except You. I seek forgiveness from You and turn to You in repentance’; was
in order to instruct his Umma about the science of negating bad deed by means of good
deeds. This was a duty and responsibility which Allah ta`ala gave him when He said:
“…there has come to you a Light and a Clear Book. With him Allah guides those who will
follow His pleasure into the ways of peace, and he brings them out of the darkness into
the Light by His permission and guides them to the Straight Path.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “His eyes used to be full of copious tears”; due to
much weeping out of the severity of his fear of his Lord, the Mighty the Majestic. This is
because fear of Allah and dread of Him is based upon the extent of one’s knowledge of
Him and Gnosis of Him. The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was the master of the
Knowers of Allah, the most knowledgeable of people of Allah, and the most fearful of
people to Him, as it was related by Muslim on the authority of Umar ibn Abu Salma that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “By Allah! I am the most fearfully aware of
Allah than any of you and those most in dread of Him.” In another narration he said: “I
am the most knowledgeable of Allah than any of you and the severest of you in fear of
Him.”
In reality, dread (khashiyya) is a kind of fear (khawf) which is accompanied with
awe (mahaaba) of the immensity of a thing; for you do not have awe of a thing except
after first having knowledge of its immensity. Therefore, knowledge of Allah and fear of
Allah are two brothers in which one is not increased or decreased except that it equally
increases or decreases its companion. Shaykh Muhammad ibn Qaasim, the author of the
al-Fawaa’id’l-Jaleela said: “The good deeds of the righteous are the evil deeds of those
drawn near to Allah. Their fear is from seeing anything other than what is most perfect,
which to them is a form of deficiency regarding their rights. For, envisioning His
perfection is sufficient cause in inducing shame (khajal) and constriction (inqibaad). It
should not be deduced from the meaning of ‘their fear of Him’, that it means they are
driven away or caused to retreat from all kinds of disobedience. On the contrary, their
fears emerge from the station of servitude to Allah and correct courtesy in the most
perfect of states, because over reliance on being secure with Allah and the lack of fear of
Him are the essence of spiritual deficiency and bad courtesy with Allah. Those who have
attained spiritual perfection, have innate knowledge of the sudden reversal of affairs, and
have acute awareness of the adverse strikes that occurs in transactions; which manifests
to them as a result of the fear of Allah.” It is for this reason that he upon him be blessings
and peace said: “By Allah! if you but knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep
much”; as it was related by Malik, Ahmad, al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of
A`isha.
Imam al-Haarith al-Muhasibi said: “The fear of the Angels and the Prophets is an
immense fear, even though they have been given the guarantee of security from
Punishment.” This is the meaning of the words of the author in his Wird’l-Adhkaar: “O
Allah I ask You that You erase from my heart everything which You dislike, and that
You fill my heart with fear of You, and desire for what is with You. We ask You O Allah
for the Knowledge of those who fear You, for the returning of the regretful, for the
sincerity of those who have certainty of You, for the gratitude of the patient and for the
repentance of the truthful.” The spiritual guide of the author, his blood brother, Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye` said repeatedly in his al-Munaajaat: “O Allah correct me inwardly
and outwardly, and fill my heart with the lights of the direct knowledge of the fear of
Your Inestimable Essence.”
Thus, the copious tears in the eyes of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was
from his gnosis resulting from the fear of the Essence of Allah ta`ala and from the
immense yearning for Him; but also due to the mercy he had for his Umma, since he
knew that he was a witness against them and that they knew that he will be a witness
against them, and he knew that their deeds were not always upright. Thus, their
circumstances became a deep concern for him in his heart resulting in his eyes being
filled with tears as a result of them. Allah ta`ala says: “There has come a Messenger from
among yourselves, dear to him is what afflicts you, deeply concerned for you and with the
believers he is kind and merciful.” It is for this reason he used to weep and tears would
normally fill his eyes, upon him be peace, resulting from the innate mercy which Allah
placed in his heart. The tears which came to his eyes emerged not as a result of grief,
dismay, crying out, or shouting out woefully or out of affliction, just as his laughter, upon
him be peace was merely a smile, without guffawing and raising his voice boisterously,
as we will mention, Allah willing.
The meaning of his words: “…and his laughter was merely a smile”; is that in
the majority of his circumstances, his laughter was merely smiling, as it was related by
at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of Jaabir ibn Samra who said: “He only
laughed by smiling.” The meaning of this in the law is that laughter, which is emergence
of genuine joy on the face where it expands until the teeth are seen due to one’s
happiness. For, he, upon him be peace only laughed regarding the affairs of the Hereafter.
As for the affairs of this world’s life his happiness for it never exceeded a smile. It has
been related by al-Bayhaqi in his Dalaa’il’n-Nubuwwa on the authority of Abu Hurayra
who said: “When he would laugh it would illuminate the walls.” This means that the light
of his smile would shine upon the walls like the light of the sun which shines upon the
walls when it rises.
The meaning of his words: “He was the most smiling of all the people.” This
means that he, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, smiled more than he laughed, in contrast to most people,
whose laughter is more than their smiling. It also means that he, upon him be blessings
and peace, was smiling most of the times. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-
Shimaa’il on the authority of Abdallah ibn al-Haarith who said: “I never saw anyone who
smiled more that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” It has been related by Qadi
`Iyad in his as-Shifa on the authority of Jarir ibn Abdallah that he said: “He, (the
Prophet), never saw me except that he would smile.” He did this in order to bring joy into
the heart of Jarir; and this was his usual courtesy with the rest of humanity in order to
guide his Umma to noble character. He said: “Your smiling in the face of your brother is
a form of charity.”
None of this does contradicts what was said before about him, that “his eyes used
to be full of copious tears” because he was continuously poignant inwardly by reason of
the affairs of the Hereafter, while in the outward he was the most smiling of all the people
as a means of uniting the hearts of humanity. Being in a state of incessant sadness does
not in any way contradict his smiling often because sadness is an inward quality of the
soul. The reason for his constant smiling with the people, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was in order to
bring happiness to their hearts, as he upon him be peace said as it was related by at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Abass: “The most beloved of actions to Allah after
performing the obligations is bringing joy to the heart of a Muslim.” There is nothing that
brings joy to the hearts of humanity than having a cheerful demeanor and smiling at
people because they are both a part of noble character. Imam `Ali ibn Abi Talib, may
Allah ennoble his countenance said in one of his poems:
“Be proactive regarding the rights of the friend when he comes
to you, and treat him with sincere cheerful virtue from you as an obligation
And be guarding of the rights of parents and be assistant
to your neighbor, the fearfully aware and the people of close kin.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not consume hot foods…”; that is to say,
that he disliked eating hot foods because of the lack of baraka that is in it, as he stated
explicitly: “…and he used to say: ‘It does not have baraka’.” This means that hot foods
are not a locus of baraka, as it was related in the al-Hiliyya on the authority of Anas ibn
Malik who said: “He used to dislike cauterization and consuming hot foods and said:
‘Necessary for you is the consuming of cooled foods, because it has baraka, for, hot
foods have no baraka’.” This means that he disliked consuming hot foods and would wait
patiently until the food cooled off. Thus, the meaning of his words, upon him be peace:
‘Necessary for you is the consuming of cooled foods…’; it is incumbent upon you to
adhere to foods which are naturally cooled. The meaning of his words, upon him be
peace: ‘…because it has baraka…’; is that it innately possesses abundant good with
respect to the health of the body, the soundness of which corrects and ameliorates the
worship of Allah. It should not be misunderstood that what is meant by ‘cooled foods’ as
foods which are very cold. On the contrary, one should simply be patient from consuming
very hot foods until the intensity of the fumes from the food dissipates, as it was stated
explicitly in the narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of the Mother of the believers,
Juwayria.
The meaning of his words upon him be peace: “…for, hot foods have no baraka”;
is that there are no blessings or there is little baraka in hot food, because it does not
increase the one who consumes it in good, growth, its consumption brings no benefit nor
is the food delicious. This prophetic tradition is corroborated by what was related by al-
Bayhaqi on the authority of Abu Hurayra. The traditionist al-Iraqi transmitted a prophetic
tradition with a sound chain of authority: “One day hot food was brought to the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and he said: ‘Hot food has not entered this stomach of mine since so-and-
so time’.”
Shihaab’d-Deen al-Khufaaji said in his Naseem’r-Riyaad: “What is not meant by
his allowing of food to cool-off, is blowing on it until it cools. Rather, it should be eaten
when it has cooled by simply being patient until the food cools of its own accord.” It is
for this reason, he, upon him be peace prohibited blowing on food in order to cool it off,
or blowing on it in order to remove some dirt from its surface, as Qadi `Iyad said in his
as-Shifa.
The meaning of his words: “He used to eat what was near him…”; is that he
upon him be peace used to eat the food which was closest to him on the dinner table. He
never ate from the middle of the food, or from the food which was close to another
person. This behavior was a part of the excellence of his courtesy and his gallantry with
others. He also commanded his Companions to consume what was near them from food,
in many prophetic traditions. Among them was what was related by al-Bukhari, Muslim,
ad-Daarimi and others on the authority of Umar ibn Abi Salma who said: “When I was a
young boy in the household of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, he said to me:
‘Mention the name of Allah, eat with your right hand and consume the food which is
nearest you’.” Among the genre of prophetic tradition is that it was related by at-Tirmidhi
and al-Haakim on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Indeed baraka descends into the middle of the food. Therefore consume from its borders
and do not eat from its middle.” This means that the good of the food descends into it
from its center, and then spreads out from its center to the borders of the plate. Thus, you
should consume food from the borders, that is to say, from the closest border of the food
to you, so that the baraka of the food can benefit all those eating. For, if the food is
consumed from its center, then this will cut off the baraka of the food. He, upon him be
peace used to eat from the portion of the food which was near him in order for its baraka
to be spread to everyone from his family, servants, Companions or guests eating with
him. All of this was from the excellence of his courtesy and companionship with people.
The meaning of his words: “The most beloved of food to him was meat” is that
the most beloved of food to him was the meat of chicken, cow, mutton, sheep, quail,
camel, and rabbit and other than these of lawful meats, as it was related by al-Bukhari
and Muslim. The most beloved and ideal of meats to him was the meat of the hind parts
of the animal as it was related by at-Tirmidhi in the as-Shimaa’il on the authority of
Abdallah ibn Ja`far ibn Abi Talib. The meaning of the meat of the hinder parts of the
animal is the animal’s shoulder as Abu Nu`aym related on the authority of Ibn Abass who
said: “The most beloved of meat to him was the shoulder of the animal.”
All of these prophetic traditions constitute evidence against those who claim to be
vegetarians, who survive purely from consuming vegetables; who believe that the eating
of meat is harmful and dangerous for the health, and has adverse affects upon the
character. Some of them believe that the consuming of meat is a liability, fault, and sin;
while others believe that the consuming of meat alters the innate character until the soul
of the one who consumes meat takes on the nature of the animal he consumes. All this is
an illusion which has no foundation in the shari`a, because the most beloved of foods to
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were meats. If there were any sin, fault, deficiency or harm
in lawfully slaughtered meats, he would not have preferred them for himself over other
foods. For, the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not give preference to anything except when
there was some good and excellence for him in this world and the Hereafter.
It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Ibn Abass that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The consuming of meat perfects the facial
features and perfects the character.” This is evidence that in the consumption of meat
there is good for the health and the physique. Abu Nu`aym and al-Bayhaqi related on the
authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib who said: “Whoever does not consume meat for forty days
will cause harm to his character.” In another narration of Abu Nu`aym on the authority of
Ali also who said: “Necessary for you is the consuming of this meat, for it perfects the
character, clears up one’s skin color, and buttresses the stomach.” In another narration he
said: “Consume meats because it causes the growth of muscle. Eat meats because it
clarifies the vision.” It has been related in sound prophetic traditions and those with weak
chains of authority that he upon him be peace said: “The master of food of the people of
this world is meat.”
Shaykh Ali al-Qaari said in his Jamu`’l-Wasaa’il: “I heard many of our scholars
say that the most beloved of foods to the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was meat.
It enhances listening, and is the master of the foods of this life and the Hereafter. Az-
Zuhri said: ‘Eating of meat increases a person seventy times in strength.’ As-Shafi` said:
‘Consuming meat enhances the reason.’ It has been related on the authority of Ali, may
Allah be pleased with him that he said: ‘The eating of meat clears the color of the skin,
and perfects the character’.”
I have never seen any distinctive superior qualities in anyone who abandoned
eating meat, either in his physique or behavior. On the contrary, I kept the company of
one vegetarian and found him to be envious, arrogant, having love for rank, and an
intense desire for a place in the hearts of people. I also kept company with another
vegetarian and found him to be humble, lenient and having excellent opinion of people.
However, this excellent character from him had nothing to do with his abandoning the
consumption of meat, but it was as a result of his abandoning evil character. I say: that
the true perfection of a person’s character cannot occur except from the love of the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and love for what he loved, even in what he ate, drank and
wore. For, the one who neglects consuming meat having aversion for it, is like one who
abandons the Sunna. Whoever has an aversion for his Sunna is deficient in his faith,
reason, and spiritual rank, whoever he may be.
The author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` said in his Ta`leem’l-Anaam: “Among
the signs of love for him is love for his traditions (hadeeth) and preferring to follow him
in everything by obeying his commands and avoiding his prohibitions; taking on his adab
in ease and hardship, joy and despair; and preferring what the Prophet has laid down as
law over one's own passions and appetites. Whoever is described with what was
mentioned is perfect in his love for the Prophet. Whoever is in conflict with these traits,
then his love is deficient. Among the signs of love for the Prophet is to mention him
often. “Whoever loves something, mentions it a lot.” Among the signs is great yearning
to meet him, showing esteem and respect for him, and manifesting humility when hearing
his name. Among them is having love for the Ahl 'l-Bayt and his Companions - both the
Muhajirun and the Ansaar, and being hostile to those who hate them.” The bottom line is
that the true sign of love is to love what the Beloved loves.
The meaning of his words: “He used to love squash”; which is a kind of
pumpkin. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of Anas
ibn Malik who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to be fond of squash. So
whenever food with squash was brought to him, or when he was invited to eat it; I would
make sure to place some in front of him to consume, since I knew that he loved it.”
Shaykh Ali al-Qaari said: “The reason for his love for pumpkin or squash was due to the
benefits it brings in the enhancement of reason, the balance of the humidity of the body
and due to what he attained from the secrets which Allah ta`ala has deposited in the plant.
It was this plant which Allah distinguished his brother Prophet Yunus, upon him be peace
with; by which he warded off the heat of the sun, the chilliness of the night, and was
nurtured in its shade. The plant was like a mother to him which nurses its child.”
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of Anas
who said: “I used to see the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬searching for pieces of pumpkin
with his fingers from the sides of the plate. From that time onward, I have always loved
squash or pumpkin.” This love was a lawful love, and not a natural love, because his love
for squash or pumpkin was a result of the love the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
had for it. This is because among the signs of genuine love for someone is to love what
that person loves.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…he would get angry for the sake of his Lord”;
which means that he only became angry for the sake of Allah. This indicates that when
anyone overstepped the bounds of the limits of Allah, he would then become angry as a
result of that. It has been related in a narration of at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il ‘l-
Muhammadiyya on the authority of al-Hassan ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be
pleased with them, who said describing his grandfather, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Whenever the
limits of the truth were overstepped, nothing could overcome his anger until he
eventually gave victory to the truth.” This means that whenever anyone overstepped the
bounds of the truth, nothing could divert the anger of the Messenger of Allah or anything
from those matters which normally diverted a person such as conventions and customs,
until he gave assistance to the truth. It has been related in a narration of Qadi `Iyad in his
as-Shifa: “Nothing could overcome his anger when the truth was opposed until he gave
assistance to it.”
For, anger for the sake of Allah is an obligation regarding the rights of the
Prophets, upon them blessings and peace, because they were commissioned in order to
give assistance to the rights of Allah and His religion. For this reason a prophet never
gets angry except for the sake of Allah alone. Whenever one gets angry for anything
Allah too gets angry for that thing. It has been related in a prophetic tradition with a weak
chain of transmission on the authority of Muhammad ibn `Amr ibn al-Hamaq that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “No servant realizes the truth of true faith until
he becomes angry for the sake of Allah and becomes content for the sake of Allah. For,
when he is able to do this, only then will he achieve the reality of true faith.” This means
that the faith of the servants of Allah can never be perfected until they are content for the
sake of Allah and angry for His sake. This is because they are His beloved and protected
friends (awliyya) whom Allah has become their hearing by which they hear, their sight by
which they see, their tongue by which they speak, their hearts by which they reason; thus
when they become angry for anything Allah Himself becomes angry due to their anger. It
is for this reason the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said regarding Umar ibn al-
Khataab as it was related by Abu’n-Nu`aym, ad-Daylami, and Ibn ‘n-Najaar on the
authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib: “Be fearfully aware of the anger of Umar, for indeed Allah
becomes angry as a result of his anger.” He also once said to his daughter, Fatima az-
Zahra as it has been related by Ibn ‘n-Najaar on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib:
“Indeed Allah becomes angry due to your anger, and He becomes content as a result of
your contentment.”
The meaning of his words: “…and he never became angry for himself” is that
he never became angry for any reason regarding himself, or he never became angry as a
result of his own whims. For whenever anyone made an infraction against the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬by words or deeds from the uncouth Arabs, or those who were
ignorant of the correct courtesy towards him, or from some of the intentional harm of the
hypocrites; he would never become angry as a result of that. On the contrary he would
encounter their transgressions with benevolence, pardon, kindness and nobility, as we
mentioned previously. In a narration of Qadi `Iyad it said: “…and he never became angry
for himself, nor did he ever take revenge for himself.” He did this emulating the words of
Allah ta`ala: “Take the way of pardoning, command the practical and turn away from the
ignorant.”
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Umdat’l-Bayaan
Fee’l-`Uluum Alatee Waajibat ‘Ala’l-`Ayaan: “Anger is one of the blameworthy qualities
which it is forbidden to have. Its reality is the boiling of the blood of the heart to seek
revenge. It has three degrees: [1] insufficient (tafreet); [2] excessive (ifrat); and [3]
moderate (i`tidal). Insufficient anger is the absolute lack of anger; for this is blameworthy
because he does not become angry when he witnesses forbidden things. For the lack of
anger in that case is blameworthy. Excessive anger is also blameworthy. It is anger
overpowering a person until he leaves the proper management of the intellect and the
deen, and he no longer has insight, consideration, reflection or deference. Whenever the
fire of anger is intense, it will blind the one who is angry, and it will make him deaf to
every warning. For if he is warned he will not listen. Rather, it will increase his anger. As
for praiseworthy anger it is in moderation. It is the anger which waits for the indication of
the intellect and the deen. It arises when it is commended by the shari`a, and it is
extinguished when it is condemned by the shari`a. It is ‘the Golden Mean’ which was
described by the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, when he said: ‘The best of
affairs is their middle.’ He whose anger inclines towards being insufficient, he must treat
himself until his anger becomes stronger. He whose anger inclines towards being
excessive, he must treat himself until it returns completely to the middle way between the
two extremes. That is the Straight Path. As for the cure for anger it is also divided into
two parts: the knowledge-cure and the action-cure. The knowledge-cure consists of five
things: [1] that he reflects on the virtues of restraining rancor, in order to obtain the
reward of that. [2] That he should frighten himself with the punishment of Allah, by
saying: ‘The power of Allah over me is greater than my power over this human being. If
I carry out my anger against him, then what security will I have against the anger of Allah
on the Day of Rising?’ [3] That he make himself fear the consequences of anger in this
world if he does not have fear of the next life. [4] That he reflect on the ugliness of his
own form when he becomes angry. Then he will recall how someone else's form looked
during their anger. He should also reflect on how much he resembles the mad dog when
he abandons tolerance, and how much he resembles the awliyya when he abandons his
anger. [5] That he reflect on the causes which incite him to take revenge. No doubt it is
from the words of shaytaan to him: ‘This will make you look impotent and humiliated
before the people.’ This is the knowledge-cure.”
The author said in his Diya `Uluum ‘d-Deen regarding the causes of anger: “The
causes of anger are arrogance, conceit, making fun, earmarking individuals for criticism,
rushing in matters, perils, and the intense craving for attaining wealth and rank. Its cure is
to remember the merits of controlling rage, yearning for the reward for controlling one’s
anger, having fear of Allah, recalling the end results of anger in this world’s life, and the
recalling of the ugliness of the form when one is angry. One should beware of the words
of the Satan when he says: ‘If you do not take revenge for that incident, then it will be
considered as impotence on your part, and losing face in the eyes of the people.’ Oppose
him in that so that you will not be belittled in the eyes of Allah, the Angels, and the
Prophets. If you are standing when you become angry, then you should sit down, and if
you are sitting when you become angry, then lay down. If this does not work then make
ablution and/or take a complete bath.”
It was related by Ibn Abi `Adiyy on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When a man becomes angry he should say: ‘I
seek refuge with Allah’; then his anger will dissipate.” In the narration of at-Tabaraani on
the authority of Ibn Mas`ud: “If one of you becomes angry, he should seek refuge with
Allah from Satan the rejected, then his anger will be dissipated.” It has been related by
Ahmad on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“When one of you becomes angry, he should be quiet.” In the transmission of Abu Dharr
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When one of you becomes angry and he is
standing he should sit down. His anger should dissipate; if not then he should lay down.”
It has been related by Ahmad ibn Hanbal and Abu Dawud on the authority of `Atiyya as-
Sa`di that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Anger is from Satan, and Satan
was created from fire. That which extinguishes fire is water, so when one of you becomes
angry, then he should make ablution.” In the narration of Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of
Mu`awiyya that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Water extinguishes fire,
so when one of you becomes angry he should take a complete bath.” The wisdom in the
above cited prophetic traditions constitute the action cure for anger.
The trait of anger is far from the character of a true believer. For this reason the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “A believer is slow to anger and swift to
appease.” This was the natural character of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
because he only became angry for the sake of Allah and never became angry for himself.
Qadi `Iyad said in the as-Shifa: “Whenever the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did
become angry, he would only became angry for the sake of Allah. Then nothing culd
overcome his anger. Ibn `Umar said: ‘I have never seen a more courageous, a more
supportive, a more generous, a more contented, or a more superior person than the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” This is because he was content with everything
except that with which his Lord was not content. In most circumstances he was
completely devoid of resentment since his innate indulgence with people was
diametrically opposed to rage and anger. Allah ta`ala says: “It is by the mercy from Allah
that you are lenient with them, for if you were harsh and hard hearted; they would flee
from around you.” The nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef regarding the nobility of
the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
The Qur’anic verses of his Creator were his innate character
The guidance which leads to it is to simply listen to his Path
For it was the intimacy with his Lord which was his close companion
For in this world, how can his true reality be comprehended
by a people asleep who can only describe him as if interpreting a dream
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He ate whatever was present”; which means that
he consumed whatever foods were placed in front of him without finding fault with it or
desiring something else. On the contrary he was content with whatever was placed before
him. This, as we discussed previously, was from his humility, austerity, satisfaction with
what was present from food, attire, riding mount, and his frugality when it came to
worldly matters. The meaning of his words: “…and he was not scrupulous regarding
any lawful food.” This means that he did not abstain from it, or deny himself from eating
it. He did this emulating the words of Allah ta`ala: “Who can prohibit the splendors
which Allah has brought forward for His servants and the good things from provision?”
Thus, he was not conscientious in abstaining from these kinds of foods because their
origin was lawful and permissible. The people of Qur’anic interpolation differ regarding
the meaning of His words: “…the good things from provision.” Some of them said that it
refers to the lawful things from the provision which Allah provides to His creatures with
regard to their food and drink. While some of them said that it refers directly to
consumable meats. Thus, the meaning of the author’s words: “…and he was not
scrupulous regarding any lawful foods”, is that he consumed these foods without being
extravagant or excessive. This is because exceeding the amount of consumption which is
required is reprehensible (makruuh), while, others said it is forbidden (haraam).
However, the first is soundest because the extent required for someone to be satiated
differs based upon the disparities in body frames, lands, times and foods.
 It has been related by Ibn Jareer on the authority of A`isha who said: “The
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never became satiated from barley bread for three
consecutive days from the time he arrived in al-Medina until he passed away.” It has been
related by Abu Nu`aym on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said to Abu Dharr: “O Abu Dharr, decrease in the consumption of
food and decrease in speech, and you will be with me in Paradise.” It has been related by
at-Tabaraani on the authority of Abd’r-Rahman ibn Marqi` that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “There is nothing more evil that can be filled than the stomach. If
you must fill your stomachs then make a third of it for food, another third for drink and
another for wind and breadth.” All of these prophetic traditions give evidence that he
upon him be peace was not overly scrupulous when it came to lawful food, while at the
same time he never took his fill of it.
The meaning of his words: “He used to eat chicken.” The expression ‘dajaaj’
(chicken) is the plural of the feminine expression ‘hen’ (dajaaja) and is a generic noun
(ism jins). It is called ‘dajaaja’ due to its speed in running and takes its etymology from
the verb ‘dajja’ (it moves fast), ‘yadijju’ (it is moving swiftly), when it reaches the limit
in walking rapidly. The meaning of his words: “…and fowl which were hunted”; is that
he upon him be peace used to consume hen and hunted birds; as an indication of his
humility and his complete lack of disdain for any lawful foods. He particularly mentioned
hens and fowls which were hunted, due to their insignificance as food. The proof of their
inferiority as food with the early community of Islam is in what was related by Abd’r-
Razaaq ibn Hammam on the authority of Abdallah ibn Yasaar who said: “Once Umar ibn
Abd’l-Aziz wanted to amputate the hand of a man who stole a hen; and Abu Salma ibn
Abd’r-Rahman said to him: ‘Indeed Uthman ibn `Afan did not amputate the hand of
anyone who stole fowl’.” This means that he did not amputate as a result of stealing
chicken and other fowl due to the inconsequence of its extent in price and value. Thus,
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬consumed these in spite of their insignificance as
an indication of his innate austerity and contentment with little.
The meaning of his words: “He liked pumpkin”; is he loved all kinds of squash
as we mentioned previously in the commentary on the words of the author: “He used to
love squash…”; so refer back to it. However, I will say that the author mentioned
pumpkin and squash because they are considered commonplace foods, easily cultivated
and inexpensive in price. Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬loved these
plants because of his innate humility, austerity and satisfaction with little. The meaning
of his words: “He did not eat garlic, onions and leeks”; is that he upon him be peace
consumed most lawful foods except these because of the foulness of their smells. It has
been related by Abu Nu`aym and al-Khateeb on the authority of Anas who said: “He did
not eat garlic, onions or leeks because the Angels used to come to him and due to the fact
that he would often converse with Jibril.” This means that he did not consume these due
to the Angels who often came to him, and his frequent dialogues with Jibril, because he
disliked causing any offense to the Angels.
The meaning of his words: “He never disparaged foods”; is that he never found
fault with lawful foods. The implications of this is that he did not praise food nor did he
find fault with them because praising and finding fault with food is a form of empathizing
with the share of the lower soul. It has been related by al-Bukhari and Muslim on the
authority of Abu Hurayra who said: “He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not find fault with any
flavors, nor did he ever find fault with foods. When he had an appetite for a particular
food he would eat it; if not he would leave it.” Shaykh Izza’d-Deen ibn Abd’s-Salaam
said: “This means that he never said ‘No’ preventing people from presenting him with
food; and this does not necessitate that saying ‘no’ cannot be said, as Allah ta`ala says:
‘You said: ‘I cannot find anything wherewith you can mount’’; since the deference
between saying: ‘I cannot find anything wherewith you can mount’ and the saying: ‘I
cannot let you ride’; is not hidden to anyone.”
In a narration of Ghandar on the authority of Sha`ba from al-Isma`ili: “I never
saw the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬disparage any food.” This means that he
neither praised nor found fault with lawful foods. As for forbidden foods, he used to find
faults with it, disparage it and prohibit others from consuming it, as the law requires. A
part of the correct courtesy towards food is not to disparage it nor praise it because
disparaging food is a form of belittling blessings, while praising food is a part of the
imperfections of the lower appetites. Both of these traits are impossible with regard the
reality of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. His lack of disparaging food and his contentment
with whatever was presented to him from lawful food is evidence of his innate austerity,
and satisfaction with little.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He possessed a large bowl”, the expression ‘qas`at’
(basin) where the letter qaaf is inflected with fatha is the common and familiar bowl
(jafna) specified for conventional purposes and is usually made from wood. The meaning
of his words: “…for the benefit of his guest…” is that this large serving bowl was used
specifically for his guests, upon him be peace, when they ate and drank with him. Most of
the guests of the Messenger of Allah, were from the People of the Suffa because they
were among the non-native destitute of the Companions; like Salman al-Farsi, Abu Dharr
al-Ghifari, Abu Hurayra and others. Abu Nu`aym said in his al-Hiliya: “Their numbers
were a hundred or more.” It is said that they numbered four hundred. They were known
as the ‘guests of Islam’ because most of them were non-native to the land. It was a part of
the Sunna of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬to invite them to his home in order to eat with
him. He also used to order the Companions to do the same. This was because shared food
was the most beloved of food to Allah, as it was related by Ibn Hibban on the authority of
Jabir ibn Abdallah that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The most beloved of food to
Allah is that which has the most hands in it.” And by his words as related by ad-Daylami:
“The best of my Umma are those who feed food to others.” It has been related by Qadi
`Iyad in his as-Shifa on the authority of Abu Hurayra who said: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬once ordered me invite the People of the Suffa to eat with him. I then searched after
them until I gathered them all together. Then a plate of food was placed before us and we
all ate from it what we desired. When we had finished it, the amount of food on the plate
was still the same amount that was there when it was originally placed in front of us;
except that you could see the traces from our fingers.” This means that the bowl was
miraculously full with the same amount food as it was when it was first placed before
them, as a miracle from him, upon him be best blessings and peace. The meaning of his
words: “…that could feed four men”; is that the size of the bowl was large enough for
four men to eat from. This means that it was very large; as it was stated in a prophetic
narration regarding the story of the wedding feast for Ali ibn Abi Talib and Fatima: “The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered Bilal to take a bowl which was four or five half bushels
in size.” The author mentioning of only one bowl does not preclude that he, upon him be
peace had more. It has been related by Qadi `Iyad on the authority of al-Qaasim ibn al-
Ma’muun who said: “We used to possess one of the bowls from the many bowls of the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, with which we used to place water in it to be utilized for those
who were ill, and they would be cured.” An-Nawwawi narrowed the number of the
serving bowls of the Prophet to nineteen, as al-Khufaaji said in his Naseem’r-Riyaad.
The meaning of his words: “He also possessed a mirror”; is that the expression
‘mir’at’ (mirror) where the letter meem is inflected with kasra is a shiny object that one is
able to look into a see one’s reflection. Thus, it means that he, upon him be peace
possessed a mirror in order to see his own face when he trimmed his mustache, combed
his hair and beard and other than that from looking after his appearance, upon him from
Allah be the best blessings and peace. The meaning of his words: “…a comb…”; is that
he possessed a comb, which is an implement (‘adaat) normally used to groom the hair.
The etymological root of the word ‘mushat’ (comb) is from the verb ‘mashata’ (he
combed), ‘yamshutu’ (he combs), ‘mushtan’ (combing). Thus, a comb, which can be
pronounced as ‘musht’, ‘misht’, or ‘masht’ is that which is used to comb the hair with. It
is singular for the expression ‘amshaat’ (combs). It has been related by Abu Nu`aym on
the authority of Ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever
among you has hair should honor it.” It was said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, what is
honoring it?’ He said: “It is by oiling it and combing it every day.” The meaning of his
words: “…scissors…”; is a word whose etymological root comes from the word ‘qarsa’
(cut) which means ‘to sever’ (qat`a). For scissors is an implement used to cut things with.
Thus, it means that he upon him be peace possessed a pair of scissors which he used to
trim his mustache and clip the hair of his head. It has been narrated by at-Tabaraani on
the authority of Abdallah ibn Abass who said: “He possessed a pair of scissors which he
called ‘the gatherer’ (jaam`u).” The meaning of his words: “…and a tooth brush...”;
takes its etymological root from the expression ‘to graze a thing by brushing it’ (saaka ‘s-
sha’y sawkan), that is to say, by rubbing it (dalakahu). Thus, one grazes the mouth with a
small wooden stick (`uud) by brushing it. It is for this reason that the small wooden stick
used for brushing the teeth is called ‘siwaak’ and ‘miswaak’. It has been related by at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Mu`adh ibn Jabal that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“The most blessed of ‘siwaak’ is that of the olive tree. It comes from a blessed tree,
makes the mouth pleasant and rids one of magic. It is my siwaak and that of the Prophets
before me.” Thus, the meaning of his words is that he upon him be blessings and peace
possessed a specific tooth brush with which he purified his mouth.
There has been narrated innumerous prophetic traditions regarding the merits of
using the ‘miswaak’ (tooth brush), with respect to the original human nature (fitr), faith
(imaan), worship (`ibaada), character, (akhlaaq), appearance (seema’) and health (sihha).
As for the original human nature (fitr), it has been related by Ibn Maja and at-Tabaraani
on the authority of `Amaar ibn Yaasir that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“A part of the original human nature (fitr) is gargling, sniffing water up the nose, the
siwaak (tooth brush), trimming the mustache, cutting nails, plucking hairs from the
armpits, cutting the hair of the private parts with a razor, washing the extremities,
sprinkling water on the private parts, and circumcision.” As for faith (imaan), it has been
related by Ibn Abi Shayba on the authority of Hasaan ibn `Atiyya in a prophetic tradition
which is mursal: “Ablution is half of faith, and the use of the siwaak is half of ablution.”
As for worship (`ibaada) it has been related by al-Biraaz, Abu Ya`ala and at-Tabaraani
on the authority of Abu’d-Darda that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Purification is in four things: trimming the mustache, shaving the hair of the armpits,
cutting the nails and the use of the siwaak.” It has been related by Abu Nu`aym in his
Kitaab’s-Siwaak as well as as-Sajazi in his al-Anaaba on the authority of Ali ibn Abi
Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Verily your mouths are
pathways of the Qur’an, therefore make them pleasant by means of the siwaak.” It has
been related by Ahmad, an-Nisaai’ and Ibn Maja on the authority of Abdallah ibn Abass
who said regarding the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “He used to pray at night two rak`ats
and then two rak`ats. He would then depart and then brush his teeth with the siwaak.” It
has been narrated by Abu Dawud and an-Nisaai’ on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “If it would not cause hardship for the believers, I would
have ordered them to postpone the `isha prayer and to utilize the siwaak at every prayer.”
It has been related by al-Bayhaqi in his as-Sunnan on the authority of A`isha that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The best of the traits of the one fasting is using the
siwaak.”
As for character (akhlaaq) and appearance (seema’) it has been related by Muslim,
Abu Dawud, an-Nisaai’ and Ibn Maja on the authority of A`isha who said regarding the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Whenever he would enter his home he would
begin by utilizing the siwaak.” It has been narrated by Ahmad and al-Hakim on the
authority of Abdallah ibn Umar who said regarding the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬: “He used not to sleep except with a siwaak near his head. When he would awake, he
would begin by using the siwaak.” It has been related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim,
Abu Dawud, an-Nisaai’, Ibn Maja on the authority of Hudhayfa who said regarding the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Whenever he would arise in the night, he would
brush his teeth with the siwaak.” It has been narrated by Ahmad, an-Nisaai’, Ibn Maja
and others on the authority of A`isha as well as Abu Amama, who both said that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The siwaak is the means of purification of the
mouth and the means for attaining the pleasure of the Lord.”
As for health (sihha), it has been related by at-Tabaraani in his al-Awsat on the
authority of Abdallah ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The
siwaak is the means of the purification of the mouth, the means of attaining the pleasure
of the Lord, and the means of bringing brilliance to the sight.” It has been related by ad-
Daylami in his Musnad’l-Firdaws on the authority of A`isha that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The siwaak is a curative for every sickness except deadly toxins,
for deadly toxins mean death.” In another narration of ad-Daylami on the authority of
Hudhayfa that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Utilizing kohl in the eyes
brings brilliance to the sight and the utilization of the siwaak establishes the molars in the
mouth.”
The bottom line is that in the use of the siwaak are many merits. Among them are
the strengthening of the gums, the perfuming of the mouth, the extraction of phlegm,
causing sight to be brilliant, eliminating magic, being in harmony with the Sunna,
bringing joy to the Angels, increase in good deeds, making the stomach healthy, and the
attainment of the pleasure of the Lord. In the last benefit is sufficient reason for the one
which Allah has illuminated his spiritual insight.
 The meaning of his words: “And when he drank he did not blow in drinking
containers”; is that the etymological root of the expression ‘blow’ (tanaffasa) is from
‘nafasa’ (to breath), which means to let air flow from the nose and mouth, and its plural
form is ‘anfaas’. Thus, each time one breaths between every two drinks of a beverage it
is called ‘blowing’. Ibn al-Mundhir said: “The expression ‘tanaffasa’ (blowing) has two
meanings. The first is that he drinks while he is breathing in the container without taking
the container from his mouth. This is reprehensible (makruuh). The second kind of
breathing is that he drinks water or another beverage from a container by using three
breaths, and by taking his mouth from the container with each breath.” I say: the first
form of drinking has been prohibited, and the latter one is highly recommended. It has
been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on the authority of
Anas ibn Malik who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to breathe three times in the
container while drinking, and then would say: ‘It is more warranted and more
quenching’.” In another narration he said: “It is more warranted, quenching and sound.”
This all means that he upon him be peace used to drink three times, and with each drink
he would remove the container from his mouth, take a breath and then return to drinking.
His saying, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬regarding drinking to breath three times means that it is more
permissible, more digestible, and more satisfying because it is more quelling of thirst, has
the least affect of causing the intestines to become cold or causing the weakness of the
sinews, and is the most affective in bringing about soundness and health; as Shaykh Ali
ibn Sultan Muhammad al-Qaari cited in his Jaami`’l-Wasaa’il.
In another narration it states that he upon him be blessings and peace breathed
twice, as it was related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of Abdallah
ibn Abass who said: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, when he drank used to breath twice.”
That is to say, that he did this sometimes. And in another narration in his Jaami`, at-
Tirmidhi related also on the authority of Ibn Abass, that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “Do not drink with one gulp like the drinking of a camel. However, drink
twice or three times, and mention the name of Allah when you drink and praise Him
when you finish.” This means that each time you bring the container close to your mouth
that you should mention the name of Allah, and when you remove it from it you should
praise Allah. You should do this three times.
It has also been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on
the authority of Thamama ibn Abdallah who said: “Anas ibn Malik used to breathe three
times in the container. Anas claimed that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to breathe
three times in the container as well.” What he meant by ‘breathing in the container’ is
that he would drink from the container taking three breaths by removing his mouth from
the container at each breath, as we mentioned. Shaykh al-Qaari said in his al-Wasaa’il: “It
is said that the wisdom in prohibiting breathing or blowing in containers, in addition to
the decisive bit of advantage already mentioned in breathing outside of the water; is that
breathing or blowing in it alters the quality of the water, either by the alteration by the
mouth which has consumed foodstuff or has abandoned brushing the teeth; or because
breathing causes the rising up of intestinal gases and steam from the stomach. I say: it has
been related that he ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prohibited people from quaffing or gulping water in a
single breath, when he said: ‘That is the way of drinking of Satan’.”
Each of these prophetic traditions and naratives is evidence of the deep concern
and consideration that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬has for the guidance of his
Umma in worldly and religious affairs. Allah ta`ala says: “...dear to him what hurts you;
he is deeply concerned for you; and with the believers he is kind and merciful.” This
means that extremely difficult for him are the matters that afflict you from the stains of
disbelief, polytheism, the lack of obedience and lac of adherence to the commands of
Allah and His prohibitions. It means, (as the savior of men and djinn, my master Shaykh
Abd’l-Qaadir al-Jaylani, may Allah be pleased with him, said in his exegesis of the
Qur’an), that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is eager and deeply concerned for your belief,
your Islam, and the correction of your circumstances in this world and the Hereafter;
since with those who are sincere unifiers of Allah and full of certainty, he, upon him be
peace is affectionate and sympathetic for extracting them out of the darkness of disbelief,
disobedience and heretical innovations into the light and illumination of sound faith,
obedience and the Livng Sunna. The author of the al-`Ishriniyya may Allah be merciful
to him said:
Of all the noble traits of character, he has mastered the essence of them
For, he has abandoned the pleasures of the souls and their beauties
And since he has made the Hereafter his goal, he descends in its direction
Walking a path whose goal no other creature has ever reached
For, we, due to following his steps can boast of what no other creature can claim.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “Whenever he put on a turban he would let his
turban hang between his shoulder blades.” The turban (`amaama) is among the well
known kinds of attire worn on the head. Its plural forms are: ‘`amaa’im’ and ‘`amaam’.
Thus, one puts on a turban (a`tamma) and ties (ta`ammama) on the turban when you
attach the turban to your head; as the brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`
said in his Kitaab’l-Wird: “When I reached the age of forty-one, five months and a few
days, Allah magnetically attracted me (jadhabanee) into His presence. I found there the
master of men and jinn, our master Muhammad, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and with him were the
Companions, the Prophets and the protected friends of Allah (awliyya). They then
welcomed me and sat me in the middle of their gathering. Then the savior of men and
jinn, my master Abd 'l-Qaadir 'l-Jaylani came with a green cloak trimmed with the
statement Laa ilaha illa Allah Muhammadun rasuulullah, and a white turban designed
with the chapter: ‘Say He Allah is One. Allah is the Eternally Self Subsistent. He neither
begets nor was He begotten and there is none like Him’' He then gave these to the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, who placed them on his breast for a while; who then
gave them over to Abu Bakr 's-Siddiq, then to Umar 'l-Farruq, then to Uthman Dhu 'n-
Nurayn, then to Ali (may Allah ennoble his face!) and then to Prophet of Allah Yusef,
upon him be peace. Yusef then returned them to my master Abd 'l-Qaadir 'l-Jaylani, who
then dressed me in them with their permission. They said to him: ‘Dress him and tie the
turban on him (`ammamahu) and name him with the name which is special to him.’ He
sat me down, dressed me, tied the turban on me (`ammamanee) and called me by the
name: ‘Imam 'l-Awliyya’.” Thus, the concept of tying the turban on him (`ammamahu) in
this context means giving him spiritual leadership (suwwada), because the crowns of the
Arabs are their turbans (`amaa’im). Whenever it is said in non-Arabic ‘to garland with a
crown’ (tuwwaju min ‘t-taaj) it means in Arabic to turban (`ummima). Subsequently
whenever, the Arabs would give leadership to a man, they would tie on him a turban; as
Ibn Mandhuur cited.
 There have been related many prophetic traditions regarding the merits of the
turban (fadeelat’l-`amaama). Among them is what was related by Ibn `Adiy in his
Kamaal and al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b on the authority of `Usama ibn `Umayr that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Wear the turban and it will increase you in
forbearance; for the turbans are the crowns of the Arabs.” He also said as it was related
by ad-Daylami in his Musnad on the authority of Abdallah ibn Abass: “The turbans are
the crowns of the Arabs, for whenever they discard the turbans, they will have discarded
their honor.” Thus, the turbans are the symbols of spiritual ascendancy and leadership, as
the Amir’l-Mu’mineen Ahmad ar-Rufai` ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` once said in one
of his poems:
“The Qaadiri sages have outstripped all others and were crowned
With the turbans (`amaa’im) of spiritual primacy and saintly crowns (tijaan)
They attained their Goal, and there will be none subsequent to them
Nor are there any can who outstrip them on the race track of Gnosis of Allah.”
Thus, the wearing of the turban is among the most important of the Sunnan of our
master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and the Sunnan of the Righteous Ancestors, may the
pleasure of Allah be with them. It is one of the distinguishing qualities between the
Muslims and the disbelievers; as Ali ibn Abi Talib, once said: “The Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once tied a turban on me and let the ends hang on my shoulders and then
said: ‘Indeed the turban is the distinguishing marker between the Muslims and the
idolaters’.” The author, may Allah be merciful to him said regarding the manner in which
the Messenger of Allah, upon him be blessings and peace wore his turban: “Whenever he
put on a turban he would let his turban hang between his shoulder blades.” The author,
may Allah be merciful to him, clarified the methodology that the Prophet, upon him be
peace wore his turbams; extracting this from the prophetic tradition related by the reviver
of the Sunna, al-Husayn ibn Mas`ud al-Baghawi in his al-Anwaar Fee Shimaa’il ‘n-
Nabiy’l-Mukhtar with his chain on the authority of `Amr ibn Hurayth who said: “It is as
if I am looking at the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and on him was a black turban,
with the tail ends hanging between his shoulder blades.” It is said that this was on the day
of the conquering of Mecca. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il ‘l-
Muhammadiyya on the authority of Naafi` on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar: “The
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, whenever he would put on the turban, he would let the ends of
his turban hang between his shoulder blades.” Naafi` then said: “Ibn Umar used to do the
same.” `Ubaydullah said: “I saw al-Qaasim ibn Muhammad and Saalim and they both did
the same.”
The father of my spiritual master and teacher, the Knower of Allah, the Spiritual
Substitute, the learned Shaykh Ibrahim al-Ya`qoubi, may Allah ta`ala be merciful him
and benefit us by him, said: “The hanging of the two ends of his turban between his
shoulder blades is a part of the Sunna, and the name given to the ends of turban is ‘the
tail’ (`udhba).” He also said: “The turbans of the Messenger of Allah, upon him be peace
were diverse. Sometimes he wore a red one, sometimes a yellow one, and sometimes a
black one. Sometimes he would let the ends hang between his shoulder blades, as the
Angels that descended from the heavens on the Day of Badr wearing yellow turbans with
the ends hanging between their shoulder blades.”
Shaykh Ali al-Qaari al-Maliki said in his Jamu`’l-Wasaa’il: “Mirku said: It has
been established in the biographies of the Prophet with sound narrations that the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to wear the turban tied with the ends hanging between his shoulder
blades, and sometimes he would wear the turban without tying it.” He also said after a
bit: “It is known from what preceded that performing any one of these mentioned matters
is a part of the Sunna.”
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Ihya’s-Sunna wa
Ikhmad’l-Bida`: “As for the legal judgment of the ends of the turban, it has been
mentioned previously of the preference of the scholars in extending it if he likes in front
of him or between his shoulder blades. It is related by Imam Muslim, Abu Dawud and an-
Nisaai' on the authority of the Prophet, upon him be peace: ‘He used to let the ends down
between his shoulder blades.’ Imam Malik, may Allah be merciful to him said: ‘I have
not seen anyone from the people I have taken from in Medina who let the hindmost part
down between his shoulder blades. However, they let it hang in front of them.’ The most
astonishing of the ideas of the later community is their saying: ‘Placing the hindmost part
of the turban in front is an innovation, while there exist these unambiguous sound
precedence from the former Imams of the predecessors. He thinks he has hit on the Sunna
and they have made mistakes and created innovation! I ask Allah for safety by means of
His favor. Al-Qiraafi, may Allah be merciful to him said: ‘Imam Malik did not sit down
to give legal decisions until forty men with turbans under their chins gave him license to
do so.’ What al-Qiraafi, may Allah be merciful to him, related concerning Malik, may
Allah be merciful to him, not giving legal decisions until forty men with turbans tied
under their chins gave him license - is a proof that the hindmost parts of the turban
without a portion placed under the chin removes it from the judgment of reprehensibility.
This is because the scholars being described with having the turbans tied under their
chins is a proof that they monopolized this fashion of tying the turban to the exclusion of
others. If this was not the case then there would have been no benefit in him describing
them with tying the turbans under their chins, since all the people would have been united
in that. Sidi Abu Muhammad, may Allah be merciful to him used to say, "Among the
reprehensible things is the turban which neither have its ends extended or is placed under
the chin, nor is it tied with either one of these. However, when both are joined together,
then this is perfection in following the Sunna. If one is utilized then this removes it from
the judgment of reprehensibility. And Allah knows best.” It is said that wearing the
turban without a tail, and/or without a part under the chin is the style of turban worn by
devils, the turbans of the Coptic, as well as the remnants of the style of turban worn by
the people to whom Prophet Lot was sent.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “His sleeves reached to the wrist”. This means that
the sleeves of his shirt reached to his wrists, as it was explicitly stated in the prophetic
tradition of Asma bint Yazid from the narration of at-Tirmidhi in his Shimaa’il where she
said: “The sleeves of the shirt of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬reached to the
wrists.” The expression ‘kumma’, where the letter kaaf is inflected with damma and the
letter meem is accentuated with the shadda, means arm sleeve (rudn) connected to a shirt.
The meaning of the expression ‘rusgh’ (wrist) is the connecting bone between the
forearm (sa`d) and the palm (kaff), and is also called ‘kaw`u’. Thus, its meaning is that it
is a part of the Sunna to not let the sleeves of the shirt pass the wrists because it an
excessive increase in attire beyond what is required, and it is among the signs of
arrogance. However, this is lawful for women, to allow their sleeves to pass the fingers
when necessity requires it, since it is a way of covering the body and being precautious
(iblaagh) in that; since the entire body of the woman is a private part, except what is
given exception by the shari`a such as her face, hands, and some say her feet. This is
different for men. Shaykh Ali al-Qaari said in his Jam`’l-Wasaa’il: “As for other than
shirts, the jurists say that the Sunna regarding these (for men) is that they should not pass
beyond the tips of the fingers; such as the loose outer garment with an opening at the
middle (jubbah) and other than it.”
There is, however, some difference among the scholars regarding wearing very
long and wide shirt sleeves. It is said that this is a reprehensible innovation (bid`a
makruuha) because it exceeds the customs of the people, and is a kind of ostentation
(mubaahaat) in dress, in order to manifests ones good looks, for boasting and greatness.
It is also said that it is a lawful innovation (bid`a jaa’iza) or a desirable innovation (bid`a
manduuba) in these times for the Muslim leaders, the judiciary, and those who possess
the authority by reason that the objective (maqaasid) and well being (masaalih) of the
shari`a cannot be realized except with the greatness of the Muslim authority being firmly
fixed in the heart of the people. And since the people in these times do not consider
things important except with their outward appearance, it then becomes incumbent to
give aggrandizement to the outer appearance (tafkheem’s-suwwar) so that the ultimate
objective and well being of the shari`a can be achieved; as the brother of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful him cited in his Ihya’s-Sunna.
Shaykh Ali al-Qaari also said in the above cited text: “Al-`Isaam said: It is
conceivable that the differences its lawfulness depends upon the differences of the
circumstances of the shirt sleeves.” He cited two prophetic traditions prior to the above
statement which corroborates this view. The first being the narration of Ibn Hibban on the
authority of Asma’ bint Yazid: “The arm of the shirt of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬was lower than his wrists.” The second was another narration by him on the
authority of Ibn Abass who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to wear
a shirt which was above his ankles, and was equal in its sleeves with beginning of his
fingers.”
The father of my spiritual master and teacher, the learned Shaykh, the Sayyid
Ibrahim al-Ya`qoubi said in the footnotes of his annotation of the al-Anwaar Fee
Shimaa’il an-Nabiy’l-Mukhtar of al-Baghawi: “It is for this that he wore a shirt with the
description given. For when one of the above described shirts became shabby, he would
take another shirt with the other description.” He also said after a bit: “This indicates that
he had a variety of shirts, where when a shirt became worn out he would naturally take
another. Thus, his shirts were diverse in the size of their sleeves and the actual length.”
This means that each of the Companions who witnessed him in them simply narrated
what shirts they themselves had saw him wearing. It is for this reason that there is no
primary contradiction in these prophetic traditions.
The meaning of his words: “…and the length of his robe was six cubits by
three cubits and one hand span”; [this is equivalent to approximately 9 ½ feet wide by
5 ¼ feet long] as it was related on the authority of al-Waaqidi: “The robe of the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was six cubits by three cubits and one hand span. His
lower garment was made from a cloth of Jordanian weave that was four cubits and one
hand span by two cubits.” [This is equivalent to 6 ¾ feet wide by 3 ¼ feet long.] The
expression ‘ridaa’’ (robe) is what is worn on the upper part of the body, as it was
clarified in what was related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of
Abdallah ibn Sarjis who said: “I once came to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
while he was among some people from his Companions. I then moved behind him, and
he knew what it was that I wanted, so he removed his robe (ridaa’) from his back. I then
saw the place of the seal which was between his shoulder blades.” His removing his robe
from his back is evidence that it is a garment which is worn over the upper part of the
body and is opposite the lower garment (izaar).
There has been transmitted a sound Qudsi tradition related by Ahmad, Abu
Dawud, and Muslim on the authority of Abu Hurayra, and by Ibn Maja on the authority
of Abdallah ibn Abass, both that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Allah ta`ala says:
‘Pride is My robe (ridaa’) and might is My lower garment (izaar). Whoever contends
with Me for anyone of them, I will fling him into the Fire’.” Here, Allah ta`ala likens His
pride and might to an upper and lower garment metaphorically and symbolically because
pride is among His attributes of majesty (sifaat’l-jalaal) and might is among His
attributes of beauty (sifaat’l-jamaal). Thus, Allah ta`ala describes Himself with these two
attributes in the same manner that men adorn their upper bodies with the ridaa’ and their
lower bodies with the izaar. In this prophetic tradition is a severe threat against arrogance
and self aggrandizement and it is explicit in establishing the prohibition of these two
traits.
All of the above which establishes the narrowness of the sleeves of his shirt, upon
him be blessings and peace, and the conciseness of his robe is an indication of his innate
humility and his keeping himself distant from arrogance (kibriya), self aggrandizement
(`udhma), haughtiness (khaylaa’), conceit (`ujub) and other than these from the attributes
of ostentation (tafaakhur). The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them said about the innate noble
character of the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
His guidance is clear, there is no one, at all, who resembles him
He is the chosen one, who is absolutely free of every kind of fault
With his new moon, in the presence of all creatures, we take repose
The yearning for Tayba soothes the soul of the one who intends it
Being delirious in yearning and love for that soil is expressed eloquently in them.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He did not prohibit any specific color in attire”;
and this is because he used to wear whatever was available from lawful clothing, as it
was mentioned previously. The father, of our spiritual master and teacher, the Knower of
Allah, one of the Abdal, the learned Shaykh Ibrahim al-Ya`qoubi, may Allah ta`ala be
merciful to him and benefit us by his baraka, said in his annotation of the al-Anwaar Fee
Shimaa’il ‘n-Nabiyyi’l-Mukhtar: “He, upon him be peace, used to wear a variety of
clothing, among which were those that were red and green.” It has been related by at-
Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on the authority of `Awn ibn Abi Juhayfa
on the authority of his father who said: “I once saw the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and on
him was red robe, and it is as if I can see the brightness of his shanks.” In another
narration of his on the authority of al-Bara’ ibn `Aazib who said: “I never saw any person
more handsome in a red robe than the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. At that time
his hair reached close to his shoulders.” It has been related by Abu Dawud on the
authority of Hilal ibn `Aamir on the authority of his father who said: “I once saw the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬giving the sermon at Mina while sitting upon a camel and he was
wearing a red robe.” In these prophetic traditions, indicate that the gowns had other
colors beside red in them.
It has been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu’l-Aswad ad-Du’ali that
Abu Dharr narrated to him saying: “I once came to the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and he
was wearing a white gown.” In another of his narration on the authority of Umm Khalid
bint Khalid who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was once given some clothing.
Among them was a short black shirt. He then said: ‘Whom do you think we should give
this to?’ The people remained silent. Then he said: ‘Bring me Umm Khalid.’ She (a small
girl at the time) was brought to him and he took the shirt and dressed her in it. He then
said: ‘May you live so long that your dress will wear out and you will mend it many
times.’ On the shirt were some green and yellowish designs, which he examined and then
said: ‘O Umm Khalid! This is beautiful’, ‘Sanah’ being the word for beautiful in the
Ethiopian language.” It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Ramtha
who said: “I once saw the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬wearing two green colored gowns.”
These prophetic traditions give evidence that he upon him be peace used to wear various
kinds of attire and that he did not prohibit wearing any particular color in dress.
The meaning of his words: “…however, he disliked for his Companions
wearing purely red clothing”; which means that he upon him be peace did not prohibit
the wearing of a particular color in attire, but that he disliked his Companions wearing all
red clothing. It is said that his dislike was an indication of prohibition; as it was related by
Muslim on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr who said: “The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
once saw me wearing two garments dyed red. He said: ‘Verily that is from the attire of
the disbelievers so do not wear it’.” In a weak narration from Ibn Mandah on the
authority of Raafi` ibn Yazid at-Thaqafi, the Prophet is reported to have said: “Verily
Satan loves red, so avoid the color red and all attire which incites eminence.” In this
prophetic tradition is the reason for his dislike of red clothing as a kind of distinct attire
for his Companions.
Imam al-`Asqalaani said: “What can be extracted for us from the words of the
early community regarding the wearing of red clothing are seven views. The first is that it
is absolutely lawful (jawaaz mutlaq), as it has come to us from Ali, Talha, Abdullah ibn
Ja`far, al-Bara’ and others among the Companions; as well as from Sa`id ibn al-Musayyib,
an-Nakhai`, as-Sha`bi, Abu Qulaaba, Abu Waa’il and others from a large group of the
Taabi`uun. The second is that it is absolutely prohibited ( mana`u mutlaq) based upon
what was stated previously from the prophetic tradition of Abdallah ibn `Amr, as well as
what was related by al-Bayhaqi and what was narrated by Ibn Maja from the prophetic
tradition of Ibn Umar: ‘The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prohibited the wearing
of reddish/orange’; (‘mufaddih’ with the letter fa followed by the letter daal which is
strengthened); which is attire completely saturated with orange, as the prophetic tradition
has been interpolated to mean. It has been related from Ibn Umar that whenever he
noticed a man wearing clothing that was reddish/orange he would pull it off of him and
say: ‘Leave this kind of color for women!’ This was related by at-Tabari. It has been
related by Ibn Abi Shayba in prophetic tradition which is mursal from al-Hassan, that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘Red is among the beautifications of Satan, for Satan loves
red.’ This prophetic tradition was traced back to the Prophet, by way of Abu Ali ibn as-
Sikin and Abu Muhammad ibn `Adiy.” Imam al-`Asqalaani said after a little: “The third
view is that it is reprehensible (makruuh) to wear clothing completely saturated with red,
but not attire that it is slightly tinged with it. This view has come from `Ata’, Taawus, and
Mujaahid, and their evidence for this is from the above cited prophetic tradition of Ibn
Umar; which means that the dislike is for any clothing which is close to being
reddish/orange. The fourth view is that the wearing of red attire is absolutely disliked
when the objective in that is for mere beautification and fame. However, it is permissible
to wear it in the house and by the one whose profession demands it. This view has come
from Ibn Abass.” Imam al-`Asqalaani also said after a little: “The fifth view is that it is
permissible to wear clothing the yarn of which is first dyed red, then cloth is spun from it.
What is prohibited from this is that the cloth is dyed red after it has been spun. Those
who leaned towards this view was al-Khataabi who understood that the robe cited in the
traditions which the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬wore, was a red robe of the
robes of Yemen and was the same kind as the red gown spoken of here. This is because
the yarn, used for the gowns of Yemen, is first dyed red and then spun into cloth. The
sixth view is a specific prohibition of attire which is dyed with reddish/orange over and
above any other kind of dyed color. Its prohibition is based on clearly transmitted
narrations corroborating that.” Imam al-`Asqalaani continued: “The seventh view is that
the prohibition of wearing red is specific for attire which is completely dyed red. As for
the attire which has an additional color such as white, black or the like, then there is no
prohibition in that. This view is corroborated by the transmitted prophetic traditions
regarding the red robe of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, because the Yemeni robes are
mostly produced from red thread and other colors.” Imam al-`Asqalaani also extracted an
eighth view from the words of at-Tabari when he said: “As for the one who holds the
view of the permissibility of wearing attire dyed from any color; well I dislike wearing
clothing completely saturated with red, or wearing pure red plainly above other attire.
This is because in our times this is not the attire of people of honor. It is considerate for
the dress of the times to have honor in which there is no sin. For dressing contrary to the
attire of the people of the time is a form of seeking fame.”
And just as he upon be peace disliked his Companions to dress totally in red, he
also preferred white attire for his Companions to wear; as at-Tirmidhi related in his as-
Shimaa’il’l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of Samra ibn Jundub that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Wear white clothing, for it is the purest and the best; and
bury your deceased in it as well.” The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`,
may Allah be merciful to both of them said in his Ihya as-Sunna wa Ikhmad’l-Bid`a:
“From the path of his Sunna, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, concerning attire is wearing white
garments. It is related in the Saheeh of al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu 'l-Aswad ad-
Dawli that Abu Dharr related to him the following: "I came to the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬, while he was sleep and he had on a white garment'." In another narration of at-
Tirmidhi on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Necessary for you is the wearing of white clothing. The living among you should dress
in it and you should bury your deceased in it. Indeed it is the most excellent of your
clothing.” All of these prophetic traditions prove that the Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did not
prohibit his Companions from wearing any specific color of clothing; but that he disliked
for them wearing all red attire. It also indicates that he prefered for them white clothing
since it is the purest, the most agreeable and virtuous kind of attire; since it has been the
outward bearng of the Angels, the Messengers and the righteous. Encouraging his
followers to disavow blameworthy attire and prefer virtuous attire in order that his
Companions and Umma would resemble the most spiritually excellent; as he ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Whoever resembles a people, is from them.” That is to say, that they are
considered from their like in knowledge, station, and reward. The Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
preferred and loved this for his Companions and Umma due to his genuine concern for
their guidance and well-being; due to his compassionate empathy for them and the
personal strain he suffered from what hurt or endangered them in their worldly life and
Hereafter. May Allah abundantly reward our master Muhammad with the best that he
rewards a Prophet on behalf of his Umma, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The nephew of the author,
Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda
as-Shareef in praise of the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
He is the dependable one whose thrustworthiness is well known
He is the noble hospitable one whose munificence is openly prominent
He is the one firmly established whose high rank is well acknowledged
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “he possessed a long under garment…”. The
etymological root of the expression ‘saraaweel’ is from the Persian language, which later
became Arabized, and can be utilized in the masculine and feminine forms. Its plural is
‘siraaweelaat’. It is said that ‘saraaweel’ is the actual plural form and its singular form is
‘sirwaala’ or ‘sirwaal’. It is a garment usually worn by the Arabs beneath the long shirt
and robe on the lower portion of the body in order to cover the private parts. The proof
that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬possessed a long under garment is what Qadi `Iyad mentioned in
his as-Shifa on the authority of Abu Hurayra who said: “I once entered the market place
with the Prophet, and he purchased a long under garment; and then said to the tailor:
‘Weigh it and exceed the value by a little.’ Abu Hurayra continued: ‘The tailor then
reached for the hand the Prophet in order to kiss it, and he pulled back his hand and said:
‘This is what the non Arabs do with their rulers, but I am not a king. I am a man just like
you.’ He then took his long under garment. I then went to take it from him in order to
carry it, and he said: ‘The owner of a thing has a greater right to carry it’.”
Imam as-Suyuti said that this narration is proof that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to
wear a long under garment as it was verified by at-Tabaraani in his al-Awsat and Abu
Ya`ali in his Musnad. The wearing of the long under garment is among the sunnan of the
Messengers. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “On the day that the Lord spoke
directly to Musa, he was wearing a robe of wool, a long garment of wool, a vest of wool
and a long under garment of wool. His shoes were made from the skin of a dead donkey.”
From this we know that the long under garment is the best of attires, as the Prophet, upon
him be blessings and peace said: “Take to wearing the long under garment, because it is
the most concealing of your clothing, and it is best for your women when they go out.”
This was related by al-Bayhaqi on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib. It is considered the
most concealing of clothing because it protects the private parts of the person praying
during his prayer and other times. It has been narrated by ad-Daylami in his Musnad’l-
Firdaus on the authority of Malik ibn `Itaahiyya that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Verily the earth seeks forgiveness for the one praying who wears a long under
garment.” This means that the earth seeks forgiveness for him because it is not disclosed
to his private parts under him. Just as it is highly recommended to wear the long under
garment with a long shirt and robe during the prayer and other times; similarly, it is
disliked to pray only in a long under garment. It has been related by Abu Dawud on the
authority of Burayda who said: “It has been prohibited for a man to pray in a long under
garment only without him wearing a robe.” This prohibition is not the prohibition which
is forbidden. Rather, it is the prohibition which is disliked because it is permissible for a
man to pray in a long under garment only out of necessity since it covers his private parts
which for a man is what is between his navel and just below his knees. As for the
prohibition which is forbidden for men in wearing the long under garment, it is that it be
so long that it exceeds the feet. This is because this is from the signs of arrogance, conceit
and hypocrisy as the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Among the signs of hypocrisy is
wearing over long under garments. Whoever wears a long under garment which reaches
under his feet, has disobeyed Allah and His Messenger. Whoever disobeys Allah and His
Messenger will have the Fire of Hell.” In this statement is evidence that he upon him be
blessings and peace took the long under garment for attire as a form of humility, and in
order to avoid haughtiness in attire.
The meaning of his words“…and he wore a signet ring”; is that from among the
prophetic characteristics is the wearing of rings. It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his
as-Shimaa’il’l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of Anas ibn Malik who said: “The ring of
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was made of silver, and its stone was of Abyssinian origin.”
That is to say, that his ring, upon him be peace was made from silver and that the stone
originated from Abyssinia in the since that it was the location of the mine of that stone.
Or it means that his ring was from the lands of Yemen which at that time was under the
direct sovereignty of Abyssinia. Or it means that the stone of his ring was black like the
color of the Abyssinians. Or it means that the craftsman who produced his ring or who
engraved it was from Abyssinia. In this prophetic tradition is proof that he upon him be
blessings and peace wore a signet ring.
It has been narrated by Abu’s-Shaykh in his Akhlaaq’l-Mustafa on the authority
of Anas ibn Malik that the stone of this above mentioned signet ring had inscribed upon it:
Laa ilaha illa Allah, Muhammad Rasuulullah. In the narration of Abdallah ibn Umar
as it was related by Qutayba ibn Sa`id that he upon him be blessings and peace seal his
letters with it. In the narration of Ibn Umar also as it was related by Muhammad ibn
Yahya: “The ring of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was engraved with
‘Muhammad’ on one line, ‘Rasuul’, on one line, and ‘Allah’ on one line.” This is
evidence that he upon him be peace possessed two or more rings. He used to wear some
of them and others he did not wear.
A part of his Sunna in wearing the silver rings is that he would wear one on his
right hand and one on his left as it has been related by Ahmad ibn Mani` on the authority
of Hamaad ibn Salma on the authority of Abdallah ibn Ja`far who said: “The Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to wear his ring on his right hand.” In a narration of Ibn Sa`d in his
at-Tabaqaat’l-Kubra on the authority of Ja`far as-Saadiq on the authority of his father,
Muhammad al-Baqir who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬threw away any
rings he possessed made of gold. Then he had a ring made of silver which he placed on
his left hand.” In the narration of Muslim on the authority of Anas ibn Malik who said:
“The ring of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was on this”; and he pointed to the
pinkie finger of his left hand.
 The meaning of his words: “…and he would turn the stone of the ring towards
his palm”; is that he upon him be blessings and peace would place the stone of the ring
which he sealed his letters with facing towards the palm of his hand; as it was narrated by
at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar who said: “The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬took to wearing a ring made of silver and turned the stone of the
ring towards his palm.” He turned the ring in this fashion out humility and avoiding
vanity, arrogance, and conceit. Shaykh Ali ibn Muhammad al-Qaari said in his Jamu`’l-
Wasaa’il Fee Sharh as-Shimaa’il: “The scholars said that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did
not order anyone else to do that. Thus, it is permissible to both turn the stone towards the
inner part of the palm or to have it on the outer part of the hand. The early community
used to do both. Among those who wore the stone on the outer part of the hand was Ibn
Abass. The scholars have said: ‘However, the first way is better, because it is imitating
the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and it is more preserving of the face of the stone
and makes it securer.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…sometimes he would completely veil himself in
his robe and at other times he would leave it over his shoulders.” This means that a
part of his sublime character is that he would wear the robe, which is a large mantle worn
by men over their shoulders, and the whole of the neck in order to complete the attire.
This is because the origin of the expression ‘ridaa’’ (robe) is anything which is used to
add beauty to a thing, such as a home and a child, as Ibn al-`Arabi cited. The ‘ridaa’’
(robe) with regard to clothing is the kind of attire worn by those who possess authority
from among the `Arabs and is considered honorable attire. Allah ta`ala says on the tongue
of His beloved Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in a hadeeth qudsi: “Pride is My robe and might
is My lower garment.” Thus, what is understood from the expression ‘ridaa’’ (robe),
here, is a metaphor used figuratively to indicate His immensity, as al-Qurtubi mentioned.
It is said regarding a person who seeks to avoid all forms of arrogance: “He has cast away
the robe (ridaa’) of arrogance from his shoulders.”
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Patience is my robe”; which means to say that the
expression ‘ridaa’’ (robe) indicates honor and nobility. Thus, he, upon him be peace
found his honor and nobility in being patient; just as the leaders of the `Arabs find their
honor and nobility in their robes. It is the normal custom to wear the ‘ridaa’’ (robe) with
a long shirt and long under garment.
The evidence that he, upon him be peace wore the ‘ridaa’’ (robe) is in what was
related by Qadi `Iyad in his as-Shifa as we cited previously: “Abu’t-Tufayl said: ‘I saw
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬when I was a boy. A woman approached him until she
became close. He then stood and spread out his robe for her and she sat upon it. I then
said: ‘Who is that?’ They said: ‘She is his mother through nursing who used to suckle
him’.” He placed his robe for her to sit upon as a way of honoring her and showing her
respect. It has been mentioned in a prophetic tradition on the authority of al-Waaqidi:
“The robe of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was six cubits by three cubits and
one hand span.” Imam al-Baghawi said in his commentary upon the as-Sunna that he,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬named his robe ‘al-fath’ (the opening).
The meaning of the words of the author, ‘sometimes he would completely veil
himself in his robe’; is that sometimes he would cover his entire body with his robe in
order to protect it from the cold. The meaning of his words: “…and at other times he
would leave it over his shoulders’; is that sometimes he would wear his robe over his
shoulders as is the custom of the people. I earlier gave a detailed description of his robe,
if you like you can reexamine that.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…often he would fold the turban underneath his
chin.” We have mentioned previously that the wearing of the turban is among the most
important of the prophetic sunnan. Thus, the meaning of his words: “…he would fold the
turban underneath his chin”; is that he would tie the turban in such a way that it folded
like a beard underneath his chin. This is because the expression ‘talahhay’ (folded) is
from the expression ‘lahya’ (beard), which is the hair which grows on the cheek bones
and the chin. Thus, the folding of the turban underneath the chin is a part of the sunnan of
wearing the turban, while abandoning this practices is a reprehensible innovation with
some of the jurists and a prohibited innovation with others. The abandoning of tying the
turban underneath the chin is called ‘’iqti`aat’ and is tying the turban on the head only
where it is wound around the head without any part of it being tied around the chin; as
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` cited in his Ihya’s-Sunna. It has been related in the prophetic
traditions that he ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered those wearing turbans to tie part of it around the
chin and he prohibited wearing it bound tightly around the head only. The reason for this
is because the tying of the turban around the head alone is the manners of wearing the
turban of Satan, the people of Lot, the Coptic and the people of Mu’tafikaat, as the Shehu
cited in his Ihya from many of the people of knowledge. He said in it: “Al-Qiraafi, may
Allah be merciful to him said: ‘Imam Malik did not sit down to give legal decisions until
forty men with turbans under their chins gave him license to do so’.” What al-Qiraafi,
may Allah be merciful to him, related concerning Malik, may Allah be merciful to him,
not giving legal decisions until forty men with turbans tied under their chins gave him
license - is a proof that the hindmost parts of the turban without a portion placed under
the chin removes it from the judgment of reprehensibility. This is because the scholars
being described with having the turbans tied under their chins is a proof that they
monopolized this fashion of tying the turban to the exclusion of others. If this was not the
case then there would have been no benefit in him describing them with tying the turbans
under their chins, since all the people would have been united in that. Sidi Abu
Muhammad, may Allah be merciful to him used to say: ‘Among the reprehensible things
is the turban which does not have its ends extended nor is placed under the chin, nor is
tied in either of the two manners. However, when both are joined together, then this is
perfection in following the Sunna. If one is utilized then this removes it from the
judgment of reprehensibility. And Allah knows best’. I say: Some of the scholars of the
later period say that the turban without extending the ends and without being placed
under the chin is permissible and is not reprehensible. However, the soundest opinion is
what has proceeded; that it is reprehensible. Malik, may Allah be merciful to him has
narrated that the people of Medina used to wear the turban until the ascendancy of the
constellation Pleiades. That means that when the Pleiades ascended then it was the hot
season. Then they would remove the turbans from their heads’.”
The wearing of the turban is among the sunna practices of the righteous ancestors
and it is among the semblances of the righteous; as it has been related on the authority of
al-Bayhaqi on the authority of `Ubada ibn as-Samat who said that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Necessary for you is the wearing of the turban, because it is
among the bearing of the Angels.” This means that it is highly recommended for you to
wear the turban because it is among the outer aspects and symbolic attire of the Arch
Angels of Allah, upon them be peace. Whoever resembles the Angels in any of their
demeanor will be with them in Divine reward; as the Messenger of Allah ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said as related by Ahmad and Abu Dawud on the authority of Ibn Umar: “Whoever
resembles a people then they will be counted among them.” O Allah make us among
those who resemble Your Angels outwardly and inwardly.

Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…he was with his Companions and wives as if he
were one of them.” This means that he upon him be peace was not distinguished in his
outward circumstances from the normal situations of his Companions and wives. Rather,
he did not differentiate himself from the outward circumstance of any of the people. This
is because, as we mentioned previously, he was always in the service of his wives and
family, tending to his own clothes, patching his garments, mending his sandals, serving
himself, milking his sheep, cleaning the house, binding his camels, and eating with his
servants; for he never elevated himself above his servants in eating, drinking, and attire.
It is well known that he used to carry his own consumables from the market place.
Likewise, he was always with his Companions as if he were one of them, as we cited
previously. When he upon him be peace was with his Companions he never chose a
designated place eared marked for him alone. As we cited in the prophetic tradition of Ibn
Sa`d related on the authority of A`isha that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “I eat as a slave
eats, and I sit as a slave sits.” This mean that he upon him be blessings and peace was
with regard to all people one among them. In another narration from the as-Shifa he said:
“I am but a slave. I eat like a slave and I drink like a slave.” This means that he upon him
be blessings and peace was a servant from among the servants of Allah who carried
himself with his Companions and others among the servants of Allah with the same
demeanor and comportment of the normal people around him in his manner of eating,
drinking, clothing and other than these from the none essential common human traits
which do not lead to any kind of deficiency in his high rank as a Prophet. All this has
been firmly established in the books of `aqeeda. This is evidence of his servitude to Allah
and the extent of his humility, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The nephew of the author, Sultan
Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-
Shareef in praise of the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
Indeed he is a mercy that had been sent from eternity
To all the different worlds; for he is my reliance and support
Through him I have attained every means of support in all my affairs.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…when he was on a journey”; whether the journey
was for the purpose of a military raid, the major or minor pilgrimages, or for another
reason; “…he used to follow behind his Companions...” This means that he would urge
them on before him, following behind them in order to protect them. Ibn al-Mandhuur al-
Ifriqi said: “The expression ‘saaqa’ is the plural of ‘saa’iq’ (a driving force); and refers
to those responsibe for urging on the forces of a military raid. They are usually situated
behind the army as protection for them.” The Prophet, upon him be peace, used to always
follow in the wake of the army, which means he used to lag behind them like a shepherd
urging them on as a guide looking after the weak among them. His reason for lagging
behind them was in order to look after the weak and to give assistance to the destitute
among them, as we cited previously concerning the description of his walking; for he
used to urge on his Companions by allowing them to walk ahead of him. His walking
behind them was out of humility and he did not allow people to walk behind him. This
was his Sunna whether he was resident or traveling.
The meaning of his words: “…because of those who could possibly be
disconnected…”; which means that he did so because of the weak and the slow paced
among them in order that they would not be cut off from the caravan. All of this was
from his kindness and mercy towards his Companions. The meaning of his words:
“…and he used to allow them to ride behind him…”; is that he used to let them sit
behind him on the mount he was riding. Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “…he would
allow others to ride behind him.” This means that whoever desired from among his
Companions would ride behind him on the back of his camel or other mounts; such as
when Jibril, upon him peace, rode behind him on the Buraaq during the heavenly
ascension; Abu Bakr as-Siddiq rode behind him during the hijra; Uthman ibn `Afan rode
behind him when returning from the Battle of Badr; Ali ibn Abi Talib rode behind him
during the Farewell pilgrimage; Usama ibn Zayd road behind him returning from Arafa;
al-Fadl ibn `Abbas rad behind him when he was in Muzdalifa; as well as Mu`awiyya ibn
Abi Sufyan, al-Hassan, al-Husayn, Abu Dharr al-Ghifari, some of his wives and others
whose numbers reach to about forty five Companions; who all rode behind him on his
mounts during travel and while resident. Our evidence for this is in what was mentioned
by Abu Dharr ibn Mawafiq’d-Deen, al-Malaa Ali al-Qaari, Shihab’d-Deen al-Khufaaji
and others cited in their commentaries upon the as-Shifa. All of this is evidence of his
humility with others and the excellence of his companionship with them, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
The meaning of his words: “…and he would make supplication for them”; is
that he upon him be peace would supplicate for his Companions and wives during his
travels; or he would supplicate for them while they were riding behind him on his mount;
or he would supplicate for them in general, as it is required of him. The latter opinion is
what was intended because Allah ta`ala says: “…and seek forgiveness for them.” This
means: O Muhammad supplicate to Allah ta`ala on their behalf for forgiveness. Allah
ta`ala says: “…and the Messenger seeks forgiveness for them”; which is that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬supplicated for their forgiveness and well being
because his supplications and seeking forgiveness for them was the sole cause of
tranquility and peace of mind descending into their hearts, as Allah ta`ala says: “…and
pray on them for your prayers is a cause of tranquility descending upon them.” All of this
is a part of his sympathy, compassion, kindness and mercy towards the believers.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “his attire”, which he wore from lower garments and
robes; rather all of his attire that he wore on over the lower of his body; “reached above
his two ankles.” This means that his clothing never passed beyond his ankles. It has been
related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il’l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of Hudhayfa
ibn al-Yemeni who said: “Once the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬took hold of the
muscle of his two shins or one of them and said: ‘This is the place of the long lower
garment. If you refuse then lower. If you refuse that then it is not the right of the long
lower garment to reach the two ankles’.” The meaning of his words: “Once the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬took hold of the muscle of his two shins”; is all the
sinews in which the nerves of the lower leg are joined, as Shaykh Ali ibn Muhammad al-
Qaari said in his Jamu`’l-Wasaa’il. Shaykh Muhammad Jawsuus said in his al-Fawaa’id
‘l-Jaleela that the sinews referred to in the prophetic tradition is what is lower than the
knee at the beginning of the shin.
The meaning of his words: “…or one of them…” is that Hudhayfa was doubtful
as to whether the Prophet took hold of both or one. However, in another narration he said:
“The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬took hold of what was lower than the muscles of his two
shins.” The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “This…” is a reference to the
muscle which he took hold of, that it: ‘…is the place of the long lower garment…’ This
means that it is the place that the lower garment should reach on the body. ‘If you refuse’;
means that if you decline to maintain the most perfect manner. Or it means if you are
prevented from accepting to behave in accordance with what is most perfect and best in
that, and you desire to allow the garment to reach beyond the muscle of the shin: ‘…then
lower’. This means that the place of the lower garment and other clothing can reach lower
than the shin muscle where it is close to the two ankles. ‘If you refuse that…’; means that
if you decline wearing the long lower garment or the like lower than the shin muscle and
desire to let the clothing pass beyond the two ankles; ‘…then it is not the right of the long
lower garment to reach the two ankles.” This means that it is not permissible for clothing
to reach lower than the two ankles, because it is in conflict with the Sunna, as al-Bukhari
narrated on the authority of Abu Hurayra, that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “What is
lower than the two ankles from the long lower garment will be in the Fire.”
The jurists who follow Abu Hanifa hold the view that it is prohibited for the long
lower garment to reach the two ankles. However, those who follow as-Shafi` and the
other remaining jurists hold the view that attire falling upon the two ankles is permissible,
and what is lower than them is prohibited. The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him said in his Ihya ‘s-Sunna wa Ikhmad ‘l-Bid`a as
an abridgement from the al-Madkhal of Ibn ‘l-Hajj: “Malik narrated in his al-Muwatta
that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The lower garment of the believer should reach to
the middle of his calves. There is no harm in what is between that and the ankles. What is
lower than that is in the Fire. What is lower than that is in the Fire. On the Day of Rising,
Allah will not look at a person who trails his lower garment in arrogance.' "This is
unambiguous evidence that he upon him be peace did not permit a person to increase his
garments more than what was needed. This he prohibited for men but allowed that for
women. It is necessary for the woman to let her head covering to trail behind her at least
a hand span or an arm’s length as necessity demands. This practice is considered proper
covering and being very diligent about that, since the entire body of a woman is her
private part except what has been excluded, in contrast to men. Imam Malik disliked for a
man to wear extensively wide and long shirts. This was mentioned by Ibn Yunus. Imam
Abu Bakr ibn Muhammad 'l-Waleed 'l-Fihri 't-Tartuushi, may Allah be merciful to him,
narrated in his book called Siraaj 'l-Muluuk wa 'l-Khulafaa'i: "Once when Muhammad
ibn Waasi`, the master of the worshippers of his age entered upon Bilal ibn Abu Burda,
the amir of Basra, he was wearing clothes which were halve way done his shin. Bilal said
to him, 'What is this notorious thing O Ibn Waasi`?!' Ibn Waasi` said to him, 'It is you all
which have become notorious to us. This is the manner of dress of those who have
passed. It is you all who have lengthened the hems of your garments. Thus, the Sunna has
become a notorious thing and an innovation in your eyes!” Thus, the passing of the long
lower garment, the long shirt, the robe and the remainder of clothing lower than the two
ankles in men is among the signs of arrogance and conceit, while wearing them above the
two ankles is the sign of humility. Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` also latter said in his
Ihya’s-Sunna: “If you were to ask: ‘What is the proper length of the long shirt (al-
qamees) for men?’ I say: Abd'r-Rahman ibn 'l-Husayni said in his Alfiyyati 's-Siyar in
poetic verse,
‘The long shirt and the loin cloth should not drag in the earth
Rather, these two should be shortened to just above the ankles.
Nay, perhaps they should fall to half of the shin
Out of humility to his Lord the Creator of creation.’
Imam al-Ujhuuri said in his commentary upon these two poetic verses: ‘In short,
he made it recommendable for a man to shorten the clothes to half of the shin and made it
permissible to reach the ankles. Whatever is more than that is forbidden if he intends by
that haughtiness. If not, then what exceeds the ankles is only reprehensible.” This
evidence corroborates the reason that his garments, upon him be blessings and peace,
were normally above his ankles; and it was due simply to his humility and his eschewing
of all forms of arrogance, conceit and the desire for fame.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “…he possessed two specific garments for the
juma`a prayer.” This means that he upon him be peace possessed a robe and a lower
garment that he wore specifically for the prayers of jumu`a and the two `Eid. It has been
related in the al-Anwaar Fee Shamaa’il an-Nabiyy ‘l-Mustafa related by Abu as-Shaykh
on the authority of Ibn Abass, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him who said: “The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to wear a garment decorated with embroidery during every
holiday (`eid).” This means that he wore this in order to smarten himself for the people,
to manifest happiness and joy and to share with the Muslim in their pleasure during the
two holidays as well as during jumu`a, because Friday is a kind of Eid or holiday of the
Muslims. In the same text it has been related on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah, may
Allah ta`ala be pleased with him that he said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬possessed a
reddish garment which he would wear during the two `Eid and the Jumu`a.” In another
narration: “…a green garment which he would wear during the two `Eid and the
Jumu`a.”
He would also adorn himself for foreign delegations that came to him as it was
related in the Musnad of Umar on the authority of Hafsa who said when she was asked by
her father, Umar ibn al-Khattab: “What was the best of the attire which the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬possessed in your home?” She said: “They were two thin cotton
garments which he used to wear when delegations came to him, and which he would
wear when giving the sermon for Jumu`a.” Al-Ghazali said: “The attire of the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬that he wore on these occasions were a form of worship because
he was ordered to invite people to Allah, and to induce them to follow him and to make
their hearts inclined to the truth. If his status fell in the eyes of the people, then they
would not be inclined to follow him. Thus, it became obligatory for him to manifest to
them the excellence of his circumstances, so that he would be elevated in their eyes. This
is because the eyes of the common people are tied to what is outwardly apparent and not
what is hidden.” Imam ar-Raafi` took from this that it is the Sunna of the Imam on the
day of Jumu`a, to enhance his appearance, clothing, turban and robe. This was
corroborated by Ibn Hajr based upon the narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of
A`isha who said: “He possessed two garments which he wore during the Jumu`a. When
he would leave returning home he would remove these garments and place them back in
the home.” All this is evidence of his humility, upon him be peace, and the excellence of
his companionship with people. Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`
said in praise of the Prophet, in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef:
“He is a light from Allah which has filled and diffused through all the horizons
He is a divine mercy dispatched as a messenger to all humanity, so be attentive
He is the bond of Allah to humanity and djinn; for he is the best of connections.”

Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He wore skull caps beneath turbans”, which is
considered highly recommended and better in merit. He would do this whenever he went
out to meet and address the people. Shaykh Ahmad al-Qastalaani cited a prophetic
tradition in his al-Muwaahib al-Laduuniyya bi’l-Manhi al-Muhammadiyya related by at-
Tirmidhi that he upon him be blessings and peace said: “Indeed the distinction between
us and the polytheists is the wearing of the turban over the skull cap.” The meaning of his
words: “…and without a turban.” This means that he would he would normally do this
(i.e. wearing the skull cap without a turban) when he was in his home; or he did this
sometimes when he came out for the prayer. This was corroborated by what was
transmitted that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to remove his skull cap from his head and place
it as barrier (sutra) in front of him while he prayed. Thus, it was a part of his Sunna, upon
him be peace to wear the skull cap upon his head beneath the turban, or he wore it
without a turban. The expression ‘qalaanis’ (skull cap) is plural for ‘qalansuwa’; and is a
thinly padded cap worn to conceal the head, as al-Fara’ cited. It is named variously
‘qalaanis’, ‘qalaanees’ as well as ‘qalanis’, and refers to the superfluous head attire that
is well known; and which is a synonym for ‘kimaam’. The shaykh of our teachers, the
master Muhammad Murtada az-Zabidi said in his Taaj al-`Uruus regarding the tradition:
“The skull caps (kimaam) of the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them were
flat.” The expression ‘flat’ (but’han) inflected with damma, means that it was closely
attached to the head and not high. The expression ‘kimaam’ inflected with kasra is plural
for kumma and is another word for ‘qalaanis’. Mirak related on the authority of Ibn
Abass, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with them that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬used to wear a skull cap underneath his turban, and would wear the turban without a
skull cap.
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Ihya’s-Sunna: If you were to ask: “What is
the judgment concerning skull caps (qalaanis)? Are they a Sunna or an innovation? I say:
It is a Sunna. It says in the al-Madkhal: ‘The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to
wear the cap underneath his turban. Sometimes he would wear it without the turban and
sometimes the turban without the cap. He would wear a cap which had ear protectors
during war.’ It also says in the al-Madkhal in another place, ‘Ibn Rushd, may Allah be
merciful to him said: ‘The cap is that which has a height above the head in any style
possible’.”
 It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of A`isha that he ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬used to wear a whitish flat skull cap. That is to say that it was white and closely
attached to his head, not raised. As-Suyuti said in his as-Shimaa’il as-Shareefa that the
skull caps of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were either Yemeni or Syrian.
Shaykh Ibn al-`Arabi said: “The wearing of the skull cap is the attire of the
Prophets and the righteous dedicated to the spiritual journey. It is worn to protect the
head and to affix the turban. It is a part of the Sunna and its ruling is that it should be flat
(laati’a) and not raised (maqbiyya) except when a man needs to protect his head from
humors which exude from his scalp. Then he can wear a high skull cap to protect his
head. In this regard it is acceptable.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “The length of his bedding…” that is to say, the bed
(sareer) which he used to sleep on. The etymology of the word ‘bedding’ (firaash) is
from the expression ‘to spread out something’ (farasha‘s-shay’); like when you say - ‘he
furnished it with furnishing and bedding’ (yafrushuhu farshan wa firaashan). Thus it is a
synonym of ‘basatahu’ (to spread out), ‘awsa`ahu’ (to enlarge) and ‘wata’hu (to get
upon). Allah ta`ala says: “…the One who made the earth as a spread carpet (firaash) for
you”; which means that He made the earth mainly with soft low ground and He did not
make it rugged and hard preventing humanity and animals from settling upon it. Thus,
bedding is among the common domestic appliances required for a home. The length of
the bed of the Prophet, ‫…“ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was two cubits or the like, and its width was
a cubit and a hand span or the like.” This means that with respect to the size of his
blessed body, his bedding was relatively small in comparison, but he upon him be peace
would eschew what was superfluous to this measure that he accorded himself. The
meaning of his words: “He would sleep upon it and drink upon it” is that the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to sleep, sit and take his drink while on his bed. This is evidence of
his austerity (zuhd) and a sign of his humility. It was for this reason that Qadi Iyad cited
this in his as-Shifa regarding the description of the bedding of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬under the section on his austerity from this world’s life. He transmitted on the
authority of A`isha: “Indeed his bedding which he used to sleep upon was made of
leather stuffed with grass fiber. It was related on the authority of Hafsa who said: ‘The
bedding of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬which was in his home was covered
with two sackcloths that he slept upon. One night we decided to make it more
comfortable for him with four sackcloths. The next morning when he awoke he said:
‘With what did you make my bedding last night?’ We then mentioned that to him and he
said: ‘Return it the way it was, because the soft bedclothes prevented me from making
my night prayers.’ Sometimes he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to sleep upon a bed made of straw
mat which would leave marks on his body.”
Al-Bayhaqi related on the authority of A`isha who said: “A woman from the
Ansar once entered upon us and noticed that the sparce bedding of the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was simply a folded mat; so she then had bedding stuffed with
woolen padding sent to him. When the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬saw this he
said: ‘What is this, A`isha?’ She said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, so-and-so from the women
of the Ansar entered our home and noticed the state of your bedding; so she then had this
sent over.’ He then said: ‘Return it to her A`isha. By Allah! If I wished Allah would
supply me with mountains of gold and silver’.” All of the above is evidence of the
scarcity of his worldly possessions and his keeping his distance from all the contributing
factors of ease and luxury. It also gives evidence of the little sleep he required because
sleeplessness (sahw) is among the reasons for the lifting of the veils between the servant
and his Lord, `azza wa jalla. I say:
O Seeker after the highest stations of Arrival
And the ranks of the best of the best of beings
Then: hunger; silence and solitude with denial
Of sleep are the pillars of the spiritually perfected beings
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to take naps…”, that is to say that he used
to sleep during midday. The etymology of the phrase ‘yaqeelu’ (take a nap) is from
‘qayala’ (to nap) and is normally called ‘qayluula’ (midday nap) because it is the sleep
taken during the noon (qaa’ila) or midday (dhaheera). Allah ta`ala says: “The
Companions of the Garden on that Day will have excellent residences and the best of
repose (maqeela).” This is a direct reference to the excellence of their homes and final
destinies. The expression ‘qayyal’ (midday repose) is what is known among the Arabs
and comes from ‘maqayal’ which means the middle of the day (nifs ‘n-nahaar). It has
been related in a sound prophetic tradition by al-Mahdawi: “Indeed Allah tabaraka wa
ta`ala will complete the Reckoning of creatures by the extent of a half a day. Then the
people of the Garden will take their midday repose (yareelu) in the Garden and the
people of the Fire will be sent to the Fire.”
It is a part of the Sunna of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬to take the midday nap
(yaqeelu qayluula) during the time of the heat of midday (dhaheera) in order to relax
(istiraaha) regardless if one sleeps or not. It has been related by at-Tabaraani in his al-
Awsat on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
once said: “Take your midday naps because Satan does not take a nap.” It has been
related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the authority of as-Saa’ib ibn Yazid who
said: “Umar ibn al-Khataab once passed us during the middle of the day. He then faced
us and said: ‘Stand and go and take your midday naps! For whoever remains then he will
be for Satan’.” Thus, sleeping and relaxing during the time of noon is a part of the Sunna
of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and the Sunna of the righteous servants of
Allah. This is because the midday nap (qayluula) is an assistant in standing in prayer
during the night and being in a state of sleeplessness (sahw) as it has been related by Ibn
Maja, al-Haakim, at-Tabaraani and al-Bayhaqi on the authority of Ibn Abass that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Assist your fasting during the day with the
early morning meal; and assist your standing in prayer at night with the midday nap
(qayluula).”
Whenever the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would take his midday nap, he would
either sleep or simply relax “…upon a single grass mat…”, that is to say it was a carpet
or rug made from palm leaves (nakhl), grass fibers (`ushb) or what resembles them which
is normally spread out on the floor of homes. Normally grass mats are spread out upon
the bare earth “…without anything being placed underneath him.” This means that
these would be placed without pillows (wisaada) or cushions (hashiyya) underneath him.
This, again, is evidence of his austerity (zuhd), upon him be blessings and peace and the
extent of his humility (qadr tawaadi`hu), as Shaykh Ali ibn Muhammad al-Qaari cited in
his Jam`u al-Wasaa’il in what was related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Mas`ud
who once entered upon the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬while he was in a room no more
bigger than a small bathroom. He was asleep upon a grass mat which left marks on the
side of his body. Ibn Mas`ud began to weep. The Messenger of Allah, awoke and said:
“What is causing you to weep, Abdallah?” He said: “O Messenger of Allah! The Kosroe
of Persia and the Caesar of Rome sleep upon silk brocade, while you here are sleeping
upon a grass mat which has left marks upon the sides of your body!” He responded: “Do
not weep, for indeed this world’s life is for them and for us is the Hereafter.” This means
that for Kosroe, Caesar and all others from among the disbelieving rulers are the delights
of this world’s life and its pleasures. For, the transcendent things of this world’s life are
the causative factors for their disbelief and their being entered into the Fire. While for the
Prophet and for those who believe from his Umma, is the Hereafter because they were
content to: “…sell the life of this world for the Hereafter.” For, this world’s life is the
causative factor for the Prophet and those who believe among his Umma to enter into
Paradise. This is because it is in this world’s life that they perform righteous deeds and
expend their wealth in all forms of obedience to Allah. Thus, they make this world’s life
a means by which they are able to attain the good of the Hereafter. Imam Ali ibn Abi
Talib, may Allah ennoble his face said:
How excellent is this world’s life and fully embracing it
When the one who attains it uses it in obedience to Allah
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He possessed a receptacle…”, that is to say that he
possessed a vessel (maa`uun) “…made from earthenware…”; which means that the
vessel was a type of clay earthenware (fakhaar). The expression ‘fakhaar’ is the plural of
‘fakhaara’ and is a container (wi`aa’) or wide jar (‘inaa’ waasi`a) which is kind of
ceramic or porcelain (khazaf). Allah ta`ala says: “He created humanity from clay earth,
like earthenware (al-fakhaar)”; which means argillaceous earth (salsaal) or dry dirt
(teen yaabis) which has not yet been fired. Once it has been fired then it is called
‘fakhaar’ (earthenware). Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬possessed a
ceramic jar which was placed for him near his bed. It is for this reason that the author
mentioned it after discussing the description of his bedding; “…with which he…” ‫صلى هللا‬
‫…“ عليه وسلم‬would make ablution…”. This means that he would use this container or
receptacle to make ablution when he awoke from sleep, arose from taking his midday nap
(qayluula), arose from a repose or when he was in a state of minor impurity (haddatha).
The meaning of his words: “…and drink from” is that he upon him be peace used to
drink from the receptacle (midhhaara) sometimes when he awoke from sleep, arose from
taking his midday nap or after relaxing (istiraaha). Or it means that he used to drink from
the water which was left (fadl maa’) after he completed his ablution as it was related by
at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il ‘l-Muhammadiyya on the authority of an-Nizaal ibn Sibra
who said: “Ali was once brought a large glass of water when he was staying in a place
called Rahba. He poured some of it in his palm and washed his hands, rinsed his mouth,
snorted water in and out of his nose, wiped his face, wiped his arms to the elbows and
wiped his head. He then drank from what was left of the water and then stood to pray. He
then said: ‘This is the ablution for the one who is not in a state of minor impurity (lam
yuhdith). It was like this that I saw the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬perform’.”
This form of ritual ablution is highly recommended for the one who is already purified.
The circumstance of his purity is like light upon light; as it has been corroborated in the
prophetic traditions. In the afore mentioned prophetic tradition is proof that it was a part
of the Sunna of the Prophet, and his Companions to drink from what was left over from
the water for ritual ablution.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to say…”, that is to say that he would say
this out of compassion for his Companions and his Umma, as it was related by Ahmad,
Abu Dawud and at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud: “Do not convey
anything to me about my Companions…”, which means ‘do not allow to reach me’,
using the second person, addressing all of mankind until the Day of Judgment. In another
narration: “No one should allow there to reach me anything negative said regarding any
of my Companions.” This particular narration conveys a clear prohibition and means that
no one among mankind should allow there to reach me anything about anyone of my
Companions. In another narration: “…anything about my Companions…”, which means
any words which are reprehensible regarding them or which would cause Divine anger to
afflict the speaker, such as abusive speech (shatim), harmful words or other than these
from actions or words. The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “…except good”
is except words that convey wellbeing, advantage and excellence regarding my
Companions. Al-Baghawi related this prophetic tradition in his as-Sunna in the chapter
regarding the Divine threat of slander (wa`eed ‘n-namaam) as evidence that this
prophetic tradition is a general prohibition against backbiting (gheeba) and slander
(nameema). Specifically, it is a prohibition against abusing the Companions of the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. However, subsumed in these narrations are the obligations of
having respect for them (tawqeer), acting virtuously regarding them (birr), recognizing
their rights (ma`arifat haqqhim), imitating them (iqtida’a bihim), giving excellent praise
of them (husn ‘t-thinaa’ ilayhim), seeking forgiveness for them (istighfaar lahum) and
being silent (imsaak) regarding the controversies that occurred between them (ma shajara
baynahum); as Qadi `Iyad clarified in his as-Shifa. The meaning of his words, upon him
be peace: “I like going out to them…” from the house and I like meeting them “…and
my heart is at rest”; regarding their impartiality. The expression ‘salaamat ‘s-sadr’
(restful heart) is a rhetorical expression used to convey the lack of hatred for anyone in
the heart (laysa fee qalbihi bughdan li ahad), and not being angry with anyone (laa
ghadbaan `ala ahad). Ibn al-Malik said: “This means that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
always wished to leave this world while his heart was content with his Companions, free
of any animosity (sukht) towards any of them.” In short, this prophetic tradition is among
the many narrations regarding the prohibition of insulting the Companions of the Prophet,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa on the authority of Hudhayfa, may Allah be
pleased with him that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Obey and follow
those who come after me, Abu Bakr and Umar.” He also said: “My Companions are like
the stars; whichever one you follow, you will be guided.” It has been related on the
authority of Anas ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The likeness of my Companions is like salt in food, for food cannot
be suitable except with it.” He also said: “Allah! Allah!; regarding my Companions. Do
not take them as targets after me. For, whoever loves them, he loves them due to his love
for me. Whoever hates them, he hates them due to his hatred of me. Whoever harms them
has harmed me. Whoever harms me has attempted to harm Allah. Whoever attempts to
harm Allah, then Allah will soon seize him.” He also said: “Do not insult my
Companions; for, if anyone of you were to expend gold the amount of mount Uhud, it
would not equal even a hand span or half of that of anyone of them.” He also said:
“Whoever insults my Companions, then upon him is the curse of Allah, the Angels and
people all together. Allah will not accept anything from him.” He also said: “When my
Companions are mentioned, hold your tongues.” He also said in a prophetic tradition of
Jabir’s: “Indeed Allah chose my Companions above the entire world, with the exception
of the prophets and messengers. He chose for me among them Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman
and Ali. He made them the best of my Companions, and in all of my Companions is
good.” He also said: “Whoever loves Umar, has loved me. Whoever hates Umar has
shown hatred towards me.” Malik ibn Anas and others related from the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫عليه وسلم‬: “Whoever hates the Companions and abuses them, then he has no right from the
spoils of war of the Muslims.” Then the verse from the chapter called al-Hashr was
revealed: “And that which Allah gave as spoils to His messenger from them, you did not
urge any horse or riding camel for the sake thereof, except that Allah gave His messenger
authority over which He wills. Allah is Omnipotent over all things. That which Allah
gives as spoil to His messenger from the people of the townships, it is for Allah and His
messenger, the near of kin, the orphans, the needy and the wayfarer, that it not become a
commodity between the rich among you. And whatever the messenger gives you, take it.
Whatever he prohibits you, then abstain from it. Keep your duty to Allah, and behold
Allah is severe in punishment. The spoils are for the poor fugitives who have been driven
from their homes and their belongings, seeking by that the bounty of Allah and His
pleasure. They are those who assist Allah and His messenger. These are the sincerely
loyal ones. And those who entered the city and entered the faith before them, love those
who fled to them for refuge. They do not find in their breasts any need for what was given
to them, but they prefer them to themselves though poverty became their lot. Whoever is
redeemed from his own avarice, such are those who are successful. And those who came
after them say: ‘Our Lord forgive us and our brothers who came before us in the faith,
and do not place in our hearts any rancor towards those who believe. Our Lord indeed
You are Kind and Merciful’.”
It has been related by Abu Nu`aym on the authority of Abd’r-Rahman ibn `Awf
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “My intercession is lawful except
to those who insults my Companions.” In the narration of ad-Daylami he said: “…except
for the one who insults my Companions.” In short, he upon him be blessings and peace
prohibited all humanity until the Day of Judgment from insulting his Companions in
order to protect and preserve their honor, the pleasure of Allah be upon them. Sultan
Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in praise of the Companions of the
Prophet, in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef:
“They are the best of generations ever engendered for humanity in all times
Among all creatures, they alone qualified for high ranks upon high ranks
Due to their companionship with the Chosen one, and their defense in drawing near.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He used to give the greetings of peace to
children…” where the author used the expression ‘sibyaan’ with the letter saad inflected
with kasra and means adolescent (ghulmaan). It has been related by Imam Muslim on the
authority of Anas ibn Malik who said: “Indeed the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
once passed by some youth and gave them the greetings of peace.” In another narration:
“Indeed he was walking with the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and they passed by
some children, and he gave the greetings of peace to them.” In the narration of al-Bukhari
on the authority of Anas ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him that he once passed
by some children and then gave them the greetings of peace. He then said: “The Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to do the same.” It has been related by Abu Dawud on the authority
of Anas ibn Malik who said: “The Prophet of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬came to us, when I
was a mere lad playing among other youth, and he gave the greetings of peace to us.” It
has been related by an-Nisaai’ on the authority of Thabit who said: “The Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to visit the Ansaar, and would give the greetings of peace to
their youth, rub their heads and make supplication for them.” In another narration he said
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Peace be upon you, O young
lads!”
An-Nawwawi said in his commentary upon the Saheeh of Muslim: “In this is it
being highly recommended to give the greetings of peace to young discriminating youth
as well as the lawfulness of showing humility and spreading the greetings of peace to all
people. This prophetic tradition clarifies the extent of the humility of the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and the nature of his compassion for the entire world.” Ibn Bataal
once said: “By giving the greetings of peace to children it is a way of training them in the
courtesies of the shari`a.” In short, this prophetic tradition encourages the elder, mature
and prominent people to throw off the cloak of arrogance, to follow the path of humility
and to be soft hearted.
The meaning of his words: “…and would act magnanimously towards them”;
is that he would show kindness and gentleness towards children, make them happy and
joyful. It was mentioned earlier that he upon him be peace used to play with children,
joke with them and descend to their level in order to gladden their faces and make them
happy. All of this was a part of the excellence of his companionship, his correct courtesy
and the expansion of his character, ‫ ;صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬but it also demonstrated his
compassion towards the young.
The meaning of his words: “He did not deter or restrain anyone”, that is to say,
that he upon him be peace did not prevent or prohibit anyone from among his
Companions “…from anything except from that which was forbidden.” This means
that he only prohibited them from that which is clearly forbidden, which includes all
words and deeds which are rewarded by Allah if abandoned and are punished by Allah if
committed. That which is forbidden is what Allah and His messenger, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
have forbidden of words and deeds by means of the textual evidence of the Book and the
Sunna. That which is forbidden is the opposite of that which is lawful (halaal). Thus, the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬never restrained anyone from his Companions from
any words or deeds, except when it was firmly established that these were forbidden. The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said as it was related by at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Maja and al-
Haakim on the authority of Salman al-Farsi: “What is lawful is what Allah has made
lawful in His Book. What is forbidden is what Allah has made forbidden in His Book.
That which it is silent about, then these are the things which are excused.” As for what
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬has made lawful, it too is lawful. What he, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
have made forbidden, it too is forbidden, based upon His words: “What the Messenger
gives you, take it; and what he forbids you avoid it.” In this also is the legal axiom that
the root of all things is permissibility (ibaaha) with the condition that it is devoid of any
kind of harm (`idam al-adraar) in one’s religion, reason, life, lineage, honor and wealth.
To the righteous, all permissible things strengthens them in traveling their spiritual path,
rectifying their religion and drawing them near to their Lord; even in those matters about
which the jurists differ. All of these are gates to them for drawing near to the Absolute
Being and attaining direct gnosis of Him.
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Usuul al-
Wilaayat: “The Sufis distinguished themselves in their school of moral discipline through
the principle of gathering their hearts to their Master by whatever way they are able. This
is regardless if it is based upon what is clearly permissible, upon concessions or on that in
which opinions differ.” He also said after a bit: “Imam al-Junayd, may Allah be pleased
with him indicated that foundation by his words: ‘Everything which gathers the slave to
his Lord is permissible.’ Al-Qushayri said on the authority of Abu Ali ‘d-Daqaaq, may
Allah be pleased with him on the authority of the shaykhs, that they said: ‘What gathers
your heart to Allah, then there is no problem with it’.” For this reason, the Messenger of
Allah ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬did restrain or deter anyone of his Companions and Umma from
performing any action except that which was prohibited. He ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said, as an
inner indication of this meaning: “Verily Allah does not make your medicinal remedies in
that which He has prohibited for you.” If Allah has not made the medicinal remedies of
the corporeal bodies in that which is forbidden; then the prohibition of the curing of the
soul, the spirit and the innermost secret with that which is forbidden is even more so
prohibited.
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He gave names…”, that is to say, it is from his
Sunna, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, just as it is the custom of the Arabs, to name his instruments of
war, his horses, his utensils and other personal property with cognomens like one would
name humans. The meaning of his words: “…to his riding beasts…”, is that it was a part
of his Sunna upon him be peace, to give names to his riding beast (dawaabb). This
expression is the plural of ‘daabba’ (creature) and in this context it refers to those
animals which one normally rides upon. Allah ta`ala says: “Allah created every creature
(daabba) from water. Among them are those which crawl upon its stomach, those which
walk upon two legs, and those which walk upon four. Allah creates whatever He wills
and He has omnipotent power over all things.”
Among the riding beasts of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were mares
(afraas). The total number of his mares about which there is agreement was seven. Five
of these were given names. The first of them was ‘as-sakab’ (‘pouring forth’) and it was
the first horse which the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬owned, as at-Tabaraani
related on the authority of Ibn Abass. It was named ‘as-sakab’ (‘pouring forth’) due to its
speed. He purchased it for ten pieces of silver. The first military campaign in which the
Messenger of Allah, upon him be peace rode upon ‘as-sakab’ was the battle of Uhud.
The second horse which he named was ‘al-murtajiz’ (‘thundering’). It was named that
due to the excellence and loud intensity of its neighing. The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
purchased it from a Bedouin Arab. The third was ‘al-laheef’ (‘the mantle’), which was
given to him as a gift by Rabi`a ibn Abi al-Bara’. It was named ‘al-laheef’ (‘the mantle’)
due to the extensive length of its tail, as if it ‘covered’ (lahafa) or ‘swathed’ (yughtiya)
the earth with its immense tail. The fourth was ‘al-lizaaz’ (‘the impenetrable’) which was
named so due to the extent of its solidity and the unanimity of its physical traits. Al-
Muqawqis, the ruler of Alexandria gave it as a gift along with Marya the Coptic, her
sister and a female mule. The fifth was ‘ad-dharb’ (‘the immense’) and it was the most
famous and well known of the stallions of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. It was
named ‘ad-dharb’ (‘the immense’) due to its great size, or thickness, or due to its
immense strength and sturdiness. Farwa ibn `Amr gave it to him upon him peace as a gift.
It is said that others gave it to him as a gift.
Among his riding beasts, upon him be peace were mules (bighaal). It is generally
accepted that he possessed two mules. Their names were: ‘duldul’ (‘the porcupine’) and
‘fida’ (‘silver’). As for ‘duldul’ (‘the porcupine’), it was, as ad-Dhahabi cited, the female
mule which al-Muqawqis, the ruler of Alexandria gave as a gift to the Messenger of
Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, along with the gifts of Marya the Coptic, her sister and the above
mentioned stallion. It was named so due to the length of its spiky mane. The Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬rode it on the day of the battle of Hunayn. As for ‘fida’
(‘silver’), it was the white female mule which he especially rode when he was in al-
Medina. It was named ‘fida’ (‘silver’) due to its bright color.
Among his riding beasts, upon him be peace were she camels (naaqaat). The total
number of his she camels about which there is agreement was four. The first of them was
‘al-qaswa’’ (‘the severed’), upon which he made the hijra from Mecca to al-Medina. It
was named ‘al-qaswa’’ (‘the severed’) due to its ear being cut off. The second was ‘al-
`adbaa’u’ (‘the slit eared) about which the Shaykh of our teachers, the master
Muhammad Murtada az-Zabidi said in his Taaj’l-Uruus: “The ‘slit eared’ (`adbaa’u) was
the nickname given to the she camel of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The expression
‘`adbaa’u’ (‘slit eared’) is simply a cognomen given as a proper name. This she camel
was not actually slit eared, which is normally a tear that affects most of the ear. It was
simply an appellation with which it was named in order to distinguish it…as it was cited
in the al-Misbah and other dictionaries.” The third was ‘as-shahba’’ (‘the grey’), so
named due to its color. The fourth was ‘al-jud`aa’’ (‘the mutilated’), which was not
actually disfigured, but was simply a name given to it.
Among the riding beasts of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was a single
donkey (himaar) which he named ‘ya`fuur’ (earth colored). He obtained it from the spoils
of the battle of Khaybar. It was named ‘ya`fuur’ (earth colored) because its color was like
the soil; as it was cited in the Taaj’l-`Uruus.
The meaning of his words: “…his weapons…”, is that he upon him be peace
named his weapons (silaah). The expression ‘silaah’ is a generic name used to refer to all
instruments of war (aalat’l-harb). It can be expressed as feminine and masculine
(yu’anath wa yudhakkir). Some of the linguists specify this name for those weapons
which are made of metal; however the majority of the linguists include the long and short
wooden staff among weapons of war as well, because they are also used in defensive
purposes. Whenever the term ‘weapons’ (silaah) is used unrestrictedly it refers to swords
(sayf), since it is considered the mother of all weaponry. Allah ta`ala says: “…and you
should take your precautions and your weapons (‘aslihat).”
Among the weaponry of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were swords.
The total number of his swords were seven, two of which he named. They were ‘dhu’l-
fiqaar’ (‘the owner of the vertebrae) which was shown to him in a dream vision and
which he possessed when he entered the city of Mecca when it was conquered. The other
was ‘al-`awn’ (‘the helper’) which was originally a piece of wood which he gave to
`Ukaasha during the battle of Badr, when his own sword had broken. This wood
transformed miraculously into a long, powerful and sharp gleaming sword. Among the
weapons of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were two spears (harbataan), which
he named ‘an-nab`aa’’ (‘the source’) and ‘baydaa’’ (‘the bright’) respectively.
Among the weapons of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was mail armor
(duruu`). He possessed seven coats of mail armor, one of which he named ‘dhaat ‘l-
fuduul’ (‘the owner of bounty’). Among the weapons of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬were bows (qusay) of which he possessed six. He named four of these, and they
were: ‘dhu ‘s-sadaad’ (‘the owner of targets’); ‘ar-rawhaa’’ (‘the bringer of repose’);
‘al-baydaa;’ (‘the bright’); and ‘as-safraa’’ (‘the yellow’). Among the weapons of the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were shields (mijaan), and they were three in total.
He named them: ‘tars’; ‘ad-duqin’ and ‘ad-daaj’. Among the weapons of the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬were quivers. He possessed a single quiver for arrows which he
named ‘dhu’l-jam`u’.
The meaning of his words: “…and his personal items” (mataa`u) which refers to
anything that he regularly utilized, carried on his person and kept in stock in his home as
Ibn al-Mundhir cited in his Lisaan al-Arab. Allah ta`ala says: “That which you have been
given from things are nothing but possessions (mataa`u) of this world’s life.” As for his
Sunna, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in naming his riding beasts, weapons and property, it has been
related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Abass who said: “Among his personal
property which he, upon him be peace, named was his rug (bisaat) which he called ‘al-
kazz’ (the shriveled). Among these personal items was his short spear (`anzat) which he
named ‘an-nimr’ (the tiger). Among these personal items was his small copper coffee pot
(rakwa) which he named ‘as-saadir’ (the emanating). Among these personal items was
his mirror (mir’aat) which he named ‘al-mudilla’ (the presumptuous). Among these
personal items was his scissors (miqraad) which he named ‘al-jaami`’ (the gatherer).
Among these personal items was his small knife (qadeeba) which he named ‘al-
mamshuuq’ (the slender). Among these personal items was his two drinking bowls
(qadah), the first which he named ‘ar-riyaan’ (the obvious) and the other he named
‘mugheeth’ (replenishing).”
A part of the wisdom in the name of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬of
his riding beasts, his weapons, his personal utensils and other than these with their names
was because this is a part of the custom of the children of Adam; and he, is the master of
the children of Adam. Allah ta`ala says: “And He taught Adam all the names.” For, Allah
ta`ala taught our master Muhammad, while Adam, upon him be peace, was between
water and clay; as the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “I was shown a likeness
of my Umma in the realm of ‘water and clay’, and I was taught all the Names just as
Adam was taught all the Names.”
The realized sages differ regarding the meaning of His words: “And He taught
Adam all the names.” It is said that it refers to the names of all of creation. It is said that it
means the names of what was and will be until the Day of Standing. It is said that it
means all of the languages. It is said that it means the appellations of the stars of the
contellations. It is said that it means the titles of the Angels. It is said that it means the
names of the descendants of Adam. It is said that it means the designations of the diverse
varieties of species which Allah ta`ala created; where He instructed him about their
circumstances, and their correlations from religious and worldy benefits. It is said that it
means the descriptions of those things which Allah created in the earth. It is said that it
means the Divine Names of Allah `izza wa jalla or the Names from His Names which are
concealed. It is said that it means the capacity and ability to name and specify, in that
Allah ta`ala instructed Adam to delineate things. It is said that it means other than these
from words of the realized sages.
The bottom line is that Allah ta`ala made the Adam and his descendants superior
to the Angels and all creation by means of the ability to name and delineate things. It is
for this reason that is was a part of the Sunna of the Prophet to name his riding beasts, his
weapons, his personal utensils and other than these with name specific to them. Shaykh
Muhammad ibn Sa`id ibn Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said
in his blessed qasida in praise of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
“He is the source of all perfection and beauty, the axis of all majesty and nobility
He negates errors, gives ample shelter and purifies the faults of those in dire need
He is copious in virtues, exaltedeness, and kindness and his generosity is all-embracing.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “he never slept except when a need required him
to.” This means that he only required what was essentially necessary for sleep, because
wakefulness (sahw) and little sleep are among the traits of the righteous servants of
Allah, as we mentioned previously. It has been related in a prophetic tradition: “The most
disliked of you to Allah ta`ala is every sleepy person (na’uum).” This refers to those who
sleep too much. Nevertheless, this blameworthy trait did not prevent him from taking the
sleep which was required of him, because his sleep, upon him be peace, was the locus of
the descent of spiritual revelation (mahal tanzeel ar-ruhaaniyaat) and divine news (khabr
al-ilaahiyaat). For his heart never slept when his eyes slept as it was cited in a prophetic
narration of al-Bukhari on the authority of A`isha: “O A`isha, my eyes sleep, but my
heart never sleeps.” Thus, whenever he would take his repose he would place his right
palm under his right cheek and remember Allah with his heart and tongue until sleep
would overtake his eyes. It has been related that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would usually say
whenever he desired to sleep: “Lord, save me from Your punishment on the Day You
resurrect Your servants.” In a narration related by Hudhayfa: “Whenever he, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬, retired to his bed, he would say: ‘By means of Your Name O Allah, I die and am
given life’.” There are many other remembrances which he would recite at sleep, as it
will be cited.
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Frequent sleep is evidence of lowliness (fasuula),
weakness (du`af), the absence of astuteness (dhakaa’) and intellectual brilliance (fatana).
It is the causative factor of laziness (musabbab li’l-kasl). It is the custom of the impotent
(`aadat ‘l-`ajz). It is a waste one’s life span (tadee` al-`umr) without bringing any benefit
and leads to the hardening of the heart (qasaawat’l-qalb), its heedlessness (ghafla) and
eventual death (mawt).” It was related that Prophet Dawud, upon him be peace once said:
“Beware of much sleep, for it will impoverish you, making you in need of the help and
actions of people.”
The meaning of his words: “He would then sleep on his right side”; is to
indicate that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬loved everything done or performed on the right side
(yuhibbu at-tayaammin) in order to guide his Umma to what is right. Ahmad related on
the authority of Abu Qatada who said: “Whenever he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to take his
repose at night, he would lay down on his right side. Whenever he would lay down prior
to the dawn, he would lean on his arms resting his head in his palm. ” Thus, sleeping on
the right side is a way of surmounting sleep and helps in making sleep infrequent. Taking
one’s repose on the right side of the body is an immense secret. Since, the heart is
attached to the left side of the body, when a person sleeps on his left side it causes sleep
to be deep and heavy (istaqalla). The reason for this is that the body is then in a state of
composure (da`a) and relaxation (istiraaha) causing sleep to be very heavy. However,
when one sleeps on the right side, the heart becomes stirred and thus he is not completely
immersed in sleep, due to the rousing of the heart, its seeking its proper place in the left
side of the body and its inclination towards it. Sleeping a great deal on the left side is
actually harmful to the heart due to the fact that the bodily limbs incline to it and depend
upon it for its functions. It has been related by Ibn Maja on the authority of Abu Amama
that one the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬passed by a man in the masjid lying on
his stomach, and he nudged him with his foot, then said: “Stand up! Or sit up! For, that is
the repose of the people of Hell.”
The meaning of his words: “…without his stomach being full with food or
drink”, is that whenever the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would take his repose,
his stomach would not be full from food and drink because frequent eating and drinking
when it is time to sleep causes the stomach to be satiated; which is then the main cause of
consumption (sull), laziness (kasl), excessive love of leisure (hub ‘r-raaha), sluggishness
of the soul (thaqal ‘n-nafs) and its lack of energy (`idam nishaatihaa), the debilitation of
the body (du`af ‘l-badan) and sleeping which preoccupies you from worship. Sufyan at-
Thawri, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him once said: “Take control over the
sleeplessness of night by eating little.” The reformer of the religion al-Ghazali said in his
Ihya `Uluum ‘d-Deen: “Do not eat much or you will have to drink much. This will then
cause you to sleep too much.”
The meaning of his words: “He did not utilize a raised bed…” is that he did not
take for himself a bed which was elevated from the earth out of humility, just as he did
not elevate himself above the common people in their eating, drinking or attire. For, he
never wished to distinguish himself from the outward conditions of the common people.
It was previously cited that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “I eat as a slave eats, and I sit as a
slave sits”; and in another narration he said: “I am but a slave. I eat like a slave and I
drink like a slave.” Similarly, he upon him be blessings and peace used to sleep as a
common slave sleeps in order to clarify and demonstrate his intense worship of Allah and
humility. The author, may Allah be merciful to him cited previously that the Messenger
of Allah never found fault with any kind of bedding arrangement. Whatever bedding was
arranged for him, he would take his repose. We previously cited a prophetic narration by
at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on the authority of A`isha who said:
“Verily the bedding of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬upon which he slept was
made of dark tanned leather padding filled with palm fibers.” Naturally bedding made of
palm fibers is not raised from the earth. He would place his blessed body upon the earth
out of humbleness, humility, being content with little of this world’s life and being
satisfied with whatever was available. He slept in this manner because it reminded him of
death, and sleep is the sibling of death.
The meaning of his words: “…and he would simply place his cheeks on a
cushion”; where the expression refers to a kind of cushion (wisaada) made of dark
tanned leather padding filled with palm fibers. A cushion is the familiar household pillow
(mikhadda) which one places under the cheek or head. Imam as-Suyuti said in his as-
Shimaa’il as-Shareefa: “His cushion (wisaada), where the letter waw is inflected with
kasra, was his pillow (mikhadda) upon which he slept at night. It was of a dark reddish
brown leather (‘adam), a word which is the plural of ‘adima (skin) or ‘adeem (dark
tanned leather). It was basically a dark red or black tanned leather pad; or when used
unrestrictedly, any leather that was padded or filled (hashwaa).That is to say a pillow
(wisaada). To corroborate this there is another prophetic narration where the narrator
clearly said: ‘…which was filled.’ From the perspective of its verbal expression it refers
to the dark tanned leather cushion. However if the meaning being conveyed here is plural
and generic, then the sentence is simply a description of the darkness (‘adam) of the
fibers (leef) that were used to fill them; and were normally the leaves of the date palm.
All of the above is a clear indication of the perfection of the austerity of the Messenger of
Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, his aversion of this world and its favors or vying for its
possessions. It also establishes the lawfulness of utilizing cushions and it’s like for
bedding, sleeping upon and other than these. Some of the jurists say however it is
foremost for the person overcome by laziness and who has a propensity to docility and
self-indulgence that he not go to extremes in the padding and cushions for bedding,
because it is the root cause of excessive sleep, heedlessness and being preoccupied from
the more important matters of spiritual good.
The meaning of his words: “He would sleep in the first part of the night”; is
that he upon him be peace would normally sleep during the first part of the night
immediately after the `isha’ prayer, in order to allow his strength to take its portion of
relaxation. This system of sleeping is the most reasonable, balanced and the most
advantageous for the well being of the body, the limbs and its overall health. The
meaning of his words: “…and then stand in prayer during the middle of the night”; is
that he upon him be blessings and peace would sleep until the completion of the first half
of the night during the 4/6th and 5/6th of the night, which is the time of predawn (waqt’s-
sahr). This time is considered the most meritorious hour of the night; as it was
corroborated in a prophetic tradition related by Ahmad, an-Nisaai and others on the
authority of Abu Dharr who said: ‘I once asked the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: Which
standing in the night in prayer is superior?’ He said: ‘During the last part of the middle of
the night. Few there are who do this.’ He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬also said: “The most superior
form of standing in night for prayer is that of Dawud, upon him be peace. He used to
sleep half of the night, and then stand for a third of it and sleep again for the remaining
sixth.” About this Allah ta`ala says: “And a part of the night, you should stand in prayer
as a superogatory act for you. Perhaps through this your Lord will resurrect you to a
praiseworthy station.”
The meaning of his words: “…when the rooster would make its first crow”; is
that he, upon him be blessings and peace would sleep until the first part of the second half
of the night. It has been related in the two Saheeh collections that he used to stand in
prayer once he heard the cry of the rooster when it would first crow during the second
half of the night. He would then arise and give life to the last part of night, by giving it its
portion of night vigils through a variety of spiritual exercises, worship and actions of
drawing near to Allah ta`ala.
Regarding this affair, I discovered among the archives of the scholars of the
House of the Fudiawa that they divided the night into twelve ‘hours’ or divisions, They
said: “As for the hours of the night; the first of them is the twilight (shafaq); then
‘khaasif’; then ‘`utama’; then ‘sadafa’; then ‘juhma’; then ‘zulla’; then ‘zulfa’ which is
during the predawn hours (suhuur) and is considered the most meritorious of the hours of
the night; then ‘nuzha’; then the early pre dawn (sahr); then ‘fajr’ (dawn); then early
daybreak (subh); and then early morning (sabaah). These are the twelve uniform hours of
the night. When the time of the nights increase then the hours of the days decrease. When
the time of the day increases, then the hours of the night decrease accordingly.” It is clear
that the Fudiawa sages make the most meritorious hour of the night the seventh division
of these twelve.
As for the description of the standing in night prayers of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬, he would normally pray thirteen rak`ats as it was related by Muslim on the authority
of A`isha who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to pray thirteen
rak`ats, which included the witr and the two rak`ats of fajr prayer.” In the narration of al-
Bukhari on the authority of Masruq who said: ‘I once asked A`isha about the night
prayers of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.’ She said: “He would prayer seven,
nine and eleven rak`ats with the exception of the two rak`ats of fajr.” This means that he
would sometimes pray seven rak`ats excluding the two rak`ats of fajr. Sometimes he
would pray nine rak`ats excluding the two rak`ats of fajr. Sometimes he would pray
eleven rak`ats excluding the two rak`ats of fajr. In short, the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬prayed in the middle of the night purely for worshipping and being grateful and
in order to instruct his Umma how to draw near to their Lord.
 It has been related by at-Tirmidhi in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya on the
authority of al-Mughira ibn Sha`ba who once said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬once prayed until his feet became swollen. It was said to him: ‘Will you make
yourself responsible for this when Allah has forgiven you of what has preceded from
your sins and those to come?’ He said: ‘Shall I not then be thankful servant’?” This
means: How can I not worship Allah and thank Him when He has favored me by
choosing me to be the best of creation, He has distinguished me with sealing prophethood
and messengership and favored me with the best of the two worlds? Therefore, I will
persist in worshipping Him even though I have been forgiven, so that I may be a thankful
servant. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ennoble his face once said: “There are people
who worship out of desire for something. That is the worship of the merchant. Some
people worship out of fear of something. That is the worship of a lowly slave. Yet some
people worship out of gratitude. That is the worship of free men.” This is as Shaykh Ali
al-Qaari mentioned in his Jam`u al-Wasaa’il in an abridged fashion. All of this is
evidence that he upon him be blessings and peace was the most worshipful of people and
the most grateful of them to Allah ta`ala. The brother and spiritual guide of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in poetic verse about the character the Prophet, may
Allah bless him and grant him peace:
“He is generous and majestic and regarding guidance, he holds strongly to it
He is the protecting guarantor of creatures, the owner of every beautiful quality
Abundant in virtues and from him perversion can never be encountered
He is colossal to those who show him enmity who are ruined for the sake of Allah
Abundant in giving others and for those natural peacemakers, he is the Way.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would prepare the appliances required for
purification from containers.” This means that he, upon him be peace, used to
personally prepare water, or make ready stones in order to perform the cleansing of the
private parts (istinja’), ablution, the ritual bath and other forms of purification. Or it
means that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to personally clean the
containers, jars and receptacles which he used to utilize for cleansing of the private parts
(istinja’), ablution and the ritual bath. This was done in order to protect these utensils
from impurities (najaasa).
The meaning of his words: “…and tooth brush”; is that he, upon him be peace,
used to preserve his toothbrush, prepare it and clean it as a way of guarding it against
impurities. All this was done out of his innate humility and as a way of instructing his
Umma. Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “He took care of the responsibilities in his home
the way a servant takes care of his responsibilities.” This means that when he, upon him
be blessings and peace was in the confines of his home he used to act the same as a
servants acts on behalf of his master. He did this by himself out of humility and as a way
of instructing his Companions that serving oneself is a part of the Sunnan of the Prophets,
upon them be blessings and peace.
It has been related by al-Bayhaqi on the authority of Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam
on the authority of A`isha, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with her who said: “The
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to mend his socks, sew his own shirts, and
perform the work in his home, just as anyone of you takes care of his home. He would
clean his home, milk his sheep, eat with the servants, knead bread and transport his things
from the market.” It is reported in another narration related by Ahmad: “He used to sew
his shirts, mend his socks and do what a man normally does in his own home.”
The meaning of his words: “…and would not make that a responsibility for
anyone of his servants, except out of necessity”; that is to say, except during times
which necessitated that; as it was related in a prophetic tradition of Anas ibn Malik from
al-Bukhari: “When the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to enter the toilet, I or a
young boy among us would sometimes carry a container or receptacle of water with an
iron tip, so that he could purify his private parts with water.”
In a narration related of al-Isma`ili by way of Ibn Marzuq on the authority of
Sha`ba who said: “I and another boy from the Ansar used to accompany him.” Some of
the scholars interpret the expression ‘boy’ (ghulaam) to be a reference to Abu Hurayra,
because he used to accompany the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and carry the water container
for his ablution and other needs. The meaning of his words ‘idwa’ (water receptacle
where the letter hamza is inflected with kasra), is a small container made of leather.
However, most of the times, he, upon him be blessings and peace used to serve himself.
This is the meaning of the words of the author: “…except out of necessity”, because it
was a part of his custom, upon him be peace, to never raise his head from the state of
humility.
The nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef:
“His innate beauty is pleasantly sweet and his insight is illuminated
While benevolence is his natural disposition and austerity is his natural behavior
For, his inner thoughts never became entangled in the web of this world’s life - ever
And his austerity from it became more inveterate, in spite of his needs.
For verily, needs can never overpower those who are infallible.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He would never sit in a dark house except after a
lamp was lit for him”; as it was related by Ibn an-Najaar using the exact wording on the
authority of Jaabir on the authority of Umm Muhammad on the authority of A`isha who
said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to never sit in a dark house except after a lamp
was lit for him.” In the narration of Ibn Sa`d on the authority of A`isha who said: “He
used to never sit in a dark house or room until a lamp was lit for him.” He did this as a
way of preserving eyesight. However, during the day he disliked lamps being lit for him
as it was corroborated in a prophetic tradition of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Jaabir
who said: “He upon him be peace used to dislike lamps being lit during morning.”
Whenever he would take to his bed to sleep, he would extinguish the lamps, as it will be
presently cited.
The meaning of his words: “Likewise, this is what the Companions, the
Righteous Caliphs used to do as well”; is a reference to the foremost among the
Companions, who were the righteous khalifs, meaning: Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, Umar al-
Faruuq, Uthman the possessor of the two lights, and Ali ibn Abi Talib, may the pleasure
of Allah be with them. For, they did this as well, imitating him, following his Sunna and
avoiding heretical innovations. Or this is a reference to all the Companions together,
because they too are righteous khalifs since Allah ta`ala distinguished them with
distinctions that it is impossible for others to even achieve the dust of anyone of them.
This is because Allah ta`ala distinguished them with actually seeing the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫عليه وسلم‬, witnessing his miracles and believing in him. He distinguished them with
fighting before him, assisting and protecting him. They were the ones who preserved the
Qur’an until they did not neglect a single letter from it. They were the ones who collected
it together and made it easy for those who were to come after them. They were the ones
who preserved in their breasts the prophetic traditions, the narratives and Sunna of the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and established these against what was to come of heedlessness,
errors and forgetfulness. They were the ones who conquered the lands and regions on
behalf of the Muslims. Thus, Allah `izza wa jalla distinguished them with virtues that no
other could have attained. It is that Allah chose them in order to establish His religion,
and to exalt His words in the presence of His Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Thus, there can be
no doubt that all of the Companions are considered to be the righteous khalifs.
It has been related by al-Isbahaani in his Targheeb, as well as al-Alkaa’iy in his
as-Sunna that he upon him be blessings and peace once said: “The mercy of Allah is with
my khalifs.” It was said: “What are your khalifs?” He said: “Those who give life to my
Sunna and teaches it to the people. Whoever gives life to my Sunna, has given life to me.
Whoever gives life to me will be with me in Paradise.” O Allah make us among those
who give life to the Sunna of Your Prophet, and give us success in following it and
teaching it to the people, by the status that Your Prophet has with You.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “Umm Salama”; who was one of the Mothers of the
believers; and was Hind bint Abu Umayya ibn al-Mughira ibn Abdullah ibn Umar ibn
Makhzuum ibn Yaqtha, one of the noble women of the al-Makhzuum ethnicity. She was
a spiritual master, who kept herself secluded from people, spiritually pure and was among
the first of those who made the hijra. She was considered to be among the most beautiful
of women and the most noble of them in lineage. From her late husband Abu Salama ibn
Abd’l-Asad al-Makhzuumi who died before the hijra she had three children: Salama,
Umar and Zaynab who were Companions. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
married her during the fourth year of the hijra. She was among the last of the Mothers of
the believers to die, having died in the sixty-first year of the hijra; may Allah be pleased
with her.
The meaning of: “…once said”; is that either Umm Salama said it or it was said
by one of the family of Umm Salama, which is the soundest view. ‘The bedding of the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his home was like that which is placed for a
human in his grave’ This particular prophetic tradition was not actually narrated by
Umm Salama herself. It was narrated by Abu Dawud on the authority of one of the
family of Umm Salama; meaning one of her children, either: Salama; Umar or Zaynab
who said: “The bedding of the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his home was like
that which is placed for a human in his grave; and the masjid was in the direction where
he would place his head.” This means that the bedding of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬was like something placed for a person deceased in his grave. This means that his
bedding for sleep was a reminder of the grave and of death. It is for this reason that his
bedding was like that of a grave; as evidence of his austerity, frugality, contentment with
whatever was available and satisfaction with little.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He once said”; to his Companions as a form of
giving advice and to his Umma as evidence of his providing counsel and compassion for
them as it was related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, Ibn Maja and others
on the authority of Abu Musa al-Ash`ari and Abdallah ibn Abass using his wording:
“When you go to sleep”; that is to say, when you desire to sleep, then “…put out your
lamps.” This means to extinguish the fires of the lamps in your homes. What is meant by
this is to smother these fires in order to be protected from their dangers; “…for fire is an
enemy to you.” This means that the fires of household lamps for which igniting and
spreading is feared is an enemy to us since these could eradicate our bodies and property
in the same manner that an enemy combatant causes destruction. Thus, the fires are an
enemy to us with respect to the innate inimical harm it can cause.
In a narration of Abu Dawud on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whenever you sleep, then extinguish your lamps, for indeed
Satan insinuates the likeness of this upon that, and thus you become burnt.” In the two
narrations of al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Abu Musa al-Ash`ari, may Allah
ta`ala be pleased with him who said: “Once during the night a home in Medina burnt
down upon its inhabitants. Subsequently their affair was reported to the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬who then said: ‘Indeed these fires are enemies to you; so when you desire to
sleep, extinguish them’.” In the narration of Ahmad on the authority of Abdallah ibn
Sirjas that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “None of you should urinate on the
floor of a room; and when you desire to sleep extinguish the lamps. For, indeed rats can
take a hot wick and then burn up the people of the house. You should also secure foods,
cover drinks and lock the doors during the night.”
The meaning of his words: “In another narration”; is that in the narrations of
Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Maja and al-Humaydi on the
authority of az-Zuhri on the authority of Saalim ibn Abdallah on the authority of
Abdallah ibn Umar. The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “Do not leave fires
burning in your homes when you go to sleep”; is do not neglect or leave the fires of
lamps and other than these lit; as Imam an-Nawwawi said in his commentary of Muslim:
“The prophetic tradition is general and includes the fires of lamps and others. As for
suspended candles in the masaajid and other places, if it is feared that fires can ignite due
to them, then they also are included in this command to extinguish them. However, the
prevailing opinion is that these are protected. The apparent expression of the prophetic
tradition conveys that there is no harm with them due to the negation of the cause. This is
because the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬gave grounds for the command to extinguish fires in
the aforementioned prophetic tradition, since a hot wick could likely be kindled upon the
people of the home and ultimately burn down their house. Thus, when the probable cause
itself is negated, then the prohibition is removed.”
This advice from the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is evidence of his innate
kindness, compassion and mercy to his Umma. And it is evidence that to all believers, he
upon him be peace, is merciful and kind and extremely protective of them. Upon him be
the best blessings and most perfect peace. About him, the brother and spiritual guide of
the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him said in poetic verse
rhyming in the letter ‘taa’:
“Blessed be He who has given a gift of mercy to creation
You were given the highest rank with Him and the highest station
You assumed, O Chosen one, from Him a Divine trust
Illumination appeared when you drove away darkness
You recited a Book in which there is the pure musk of evidences.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “He disliked sleeping upon the face”; which is that
he, upon him be blessings and peace disliked sleeping upon the stomach. It has been
narrated by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra who once said: “The Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once saw a man sleeping on his stomach and said: ‘Indeed that
is the kind of repose which Allah does not love’.” That is to say, that Allah ta`ala does
not love it because it is the description of the repose of the people of Hell Fire, as it was
related in a prophetic tradition of Abu Dharr narrated by Ibn Maja: “Indeed that is the
repose of the people of Hell Fire.”
In a narration of Abu Dawud on the authority of Tukhfa ibn Qays al-Ghifari who
said: “Once I was taking my repose in the masjid during the predawn hours lying on my
stomach, when a man roused me with his foot and said: ‘Indeed that is the kind of repose
which Allah is angry with’. When I awoke and looked, it was the Messenger of Allah,
‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.” In the narration of Ibn Maja on the authority of Abu Amaama that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once passed by a man who was taking his rest on his
face. He then nudged him with his foot and said: “Stand up or sit up! For, indeed that is
the sleep of the people of Jahanim!” All of this is evidence of the reprehensibility of
sleeping on the stomach.
The meaning of his words: “…and disliked sleeping during the mornings”; is
that he disliked sleeping immediately after the subh prayer up until the rising of the sun.
He disliked sleeping during this time because of what is in it of dangers to the physique,
the intellect and one’s daily provision.
It has been related by Ibn Maja on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib who said:
“The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬forbade sleeping before the rising of the sun.”
This is because sleeping during this time is one of the causative factors for the hardships
in daily provision (ta`aasir ‘r-rizq). In a narration of as-Siryani on the authority of Anas
ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Whoever persists in
sleeping immediately after the subh prayer, Allah will afflict him with bodily weakness.”
This means that he will be afflicted with bodily pains along the sides of his body. There is
no time of the day which is more advantageous than these times with regard to
facilitating physical provision and material wealth. Imam al-Qurtubi once said: “It is
during the hours of early morning that a sick person, the traveler and every possessor of
malady can find comfort. It is during this time that the souls of the dead are returned, as
well as the spirits are returned to their bodies. It is during these times that souls are made
comfortable by being revived in their bodies.”
Shaykh Ali al-Khawaas, may Allah be merciful to him said: “Indeed Allah ta`ala
divides and distributes sensory provision (arzaaq mahsuusa) after the prayer of subh and
He divides and distributes spiritual, intellectual and psychic provisions (azraaq
ma`anawiyya) after the prayer of `asr.” It is for this reason that we have been prohibited
from sleeping during these two times, since in them is the manifestation of the absence of
poverty, and the absence of reliance upon others, by direct witnessing of the One who
divides provision – the Absolute Being, may He be exalted.
The meaning of his words: “…and said about that”; is that he said these words
as evidence of the reprehensibility of sleeping during this time; as it was corroborated in
a prophetic tradition related by Ibn an-Najaar on the authority of the spiritual master
Fatima, the daughter of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless them and grant them
peace. The meaning of his words: “Allah divides the sustenance of creation between
the dawn and rising of the sun”; is that Allah ta`ala divides and distributes the daily
provision of the entire creation, be it the corporeal creation; the bodily creation; the
natural creation; the sensory creation; the astronomical and orbital creation; the material
creation, the cosmological creation and other than these from the perspective of their
outward provision. Thus, Allah manifests these blessings from the time of subh until the
rising of the sun and causes it to permeate the whole of existence with the ascension of
the sun and the return of the shadows to the essences of existing things. For, this is an
immense secret in the wisdom hidden in this time.
In another prophetic narration, he upon him be peace said: “O my daughter! Arise
and witness the provision of your Lord, and do not be among the heedless! For, indeed
Allah divides the daily provision of the people in the time between the appearance of fajr
and the appearance of the sun.”
The most erudite of the Bilad ‘s-Sudan, the Professor Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` said
in his Diya `Uluum’d-Deen: “When he completes the subh prayer, he should sit in the
masjid until the rising of the sun, remembering Allah with all forms of remembrance,
supplication, recitation of the Qur’an and reflection upon what will benefit him, by
reckoning his own soul for what has passed, and being attentive to the functions of his
day which he must perform; as well as reflecting on those things which ward off the
hindrances of good, and reflecting upon the outward and inward blessings of Allah. All
this should be done in order to praise Him. These four: i.e., remembrance of Allah
(dhikr); supplication (du`a), recitation (qir’at) and reflection (fikr) should be his job
(wadheefa) in every litany that he performs after the completion of the prayer of subh.”
This means during the times after the prayer of subh until the rising of the sun (tuluu` as-
shams).
It is said that the best form of remembrance during this time is sending blessings
upon the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬as Shaykh Abd’l-Wahaab as-Sha`rani related that al-
Khadr, upon him be peace once commanded him to do the same. He said: “Persist in
sending blessings upon the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬every day after the subh until the
rising of the sun. Then remember Allah at the end in a spiritually subtle assembly.” I said
to him: “Hearing and obeying!”
He then said to me: “By means of this I and my companions attained the good of
this world and the Next, as well as the facilitating of daily provision, to the extent that if
all the people of Egypt were my family responsibility, I would be able to carry the
burdens of their concerns. All praises are due to Allah the Lord of the worlds.” What is
important is that he, upon him be blessings and peace advised his daughter with this
counsel as a form of kindness, compassion and mercy to her and his Umma. The nephew
of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his
Takhmees of the al-Burda as-Shareefa:
“Muhammad the chosen of the best of the family of Luway
Muhammad the select of the righteous of the family of Qusay
Muhammad the preferred of prophethood, the remover of errors
Muhammad the master of the two worlds and men and djinn
As well as master of the two groups from Arabs and non Arabs.”
 Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace which are a
part of the branches of faith is that: “When he went to sleep, he used to recite”; as a
litany (wird) in order to counteract occult magic (li mukhaalif as-sihra), and sickness, and
in order to garner baraka during his sleep. It has been related by Ahmad and at-Tirmidhi
on the authority of Shidaad ibn Aws that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“There is no Muslim who takes to his repose, who recites a chapter from the Book of
Allah except that by means of it Allah makes an Angel responsible for protecting him.
Or, nothing harmful will approach him until he awakens whenever he awakens.”
The meaning of his words: “…al-Faatiha”; is that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬used to recite the chapter called al-Faatiha at the time of sleep in order to protect
himself from harm. Or it means that he would recite it as an instruction to his
Companions on how to protect themselves from harm. It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir
on the authority of Shidaad ibn `Aws that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Whenever one of you takes himself to his repose, he should lie down and recite the
Umm’l-Kitaab and another Qur’anic chapter. For, indeed Allah will make an Angel
responsible for him who will awaken when he awakens.”
The meaning of his words: “…al-Ikhlaas and the Mu`adhatayn”; is that these
three chapters were what was meant by his words previously cited: “…recite the Umm’l-
Kitaab and another Qur’anic chapter”; which are al-Ikhlaas and the Mu’adhatayn. The
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to recite al-Ikhlaas and the Mu`adhatayn after
the recitation of al-Faatiha in order to protect himself from sicknesses, occult magic, the
evil eye and the remainder of harmful things, as it was related by at-Tirmidhi on the
authority of A`isha that every night when the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to intend to
go to bed he would gather his palms together, dry spit in them and recite over them: ‘Say
He Allah is One…’; ‘Say, I seek refuge in the Lord of the dawn…’, and ‘Say I seek refuge
in the Lord mankind...’ He would then take his palms and wipe whatever he was able to
reach of his body; beginning with his head and face and then with the front of his body.
He would do this tree times.” In the narration of Ibn an-Najaar on the authority of A`isha
as well: “When the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to intend to go to bed, he
would dry spit in his palms with the recitation of ‘Say He Allah is One’; along with the
Mu`adhatayn. He would then take his palms and wipe his face, his limbs, chest and
whatever else his hands could reach of his body. A`isha then said: “When his sickness
became intense, he would order me to do the same thing.”
The meaning of his words: “…and then say”; as it was related by Malik ibn Anas
on the authority of the Sword of Allah, Khalid ibn al-Waleed; as well as by Ahmad ibn
Hanbal on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr ibn al-`Aas and al-Waleed ibn al-Waleed
ibn al-Mughira; and by at-Tirmidhi also on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr ibn al-
`Aas, that he upon him be peace used to say the following supplication at the time of
sleep. Or he used to say it after first reciting al-Faatiha, al-Ikhlaas and the Mu`adhatayn.
In the beginning of the narration of Ibn `Amr he said: “Whenever one of you finishes
with sleep, he should say…” This means that when someone fears the conditions of sleep
or when he desires to sleep. In the narration of Malik ibn Anas on the authority of Khalid
ibn al-Waleed that he once said to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Indeed I am
frightened during my sleep”; which means that I witness things which frighten me in my
sleep.
 The meaning of his words: “I seek refuge with the Perfect Words of Allah”;
which is the Qur’an as it was related by al-Haruuri and others. The meaning of his words:
‘perfect’ (at-taamaat), or as it is in other narrations ‘at-taama’; which are the bountiful
all inclusive and perfect words of Allah which neither deficiency nor error can enter. It is
said that the perfect words (kalimaat taamaat) are the Divine Names of Allah, His
Attributes, and the verses of His Book. The meaning of his words: “…from His anger”;
is from His wrath (sukht) and from the absence of His pleasure (ridaa). The meaning of
his words: “…punishment”; is from His divine chastisement (`adhaab). The meaning of
his words: “…from the evils of His servants”; is from the evils of oppression of people
and one’s own disobedience (sharr ‘d-dhulam wa’l-ma`asiyya) and their like. The
meaning of his words: “…from the goading of devils”; is from their incitements
(nazgha), dangers (khataraat), evil whisperings (wasaawus) and from their encountering
them with tribulations (fitna), and corrupt beliefs (`aqaa’id faasida) in the heart. The
meaning of his words: “…or their being present”; is from their presence during affairs
such as prayer, the recitation of Qur’an, and other than these since their demonic
presence occurs in order to incite and bring evil. In the narration of at-Tirmidhi on the
authority of Ibn `Amr ibn al-`Aas he added at the end: “…for then they will never harm
him.” That is to say, that the devils will never harm him if he supplicates with this
supplication. In the narration of Ahmad on the authority of al-Waleed ibn al-Waleed he
added: “…for indeed it will not harm you”; as an answer to al-Waleed when he said: “O
Messenger of Allah, I find monsters in my sleep”; which means I find in my sleep strange
apparitions (ghurba), gloom (ka’aaba) or terrifying nightmares (faza`a). In this prophetic
tradition is evidence that frightening nightmares are from Satan. In the narration of at-
Tirmidhi, he adds the following: “Abdallah ibn `Amr used to transmit this to those of his
children who had attained maturity; and those who had not yet attained maturity, he
would write it down on paper and attach it to their necks.” This is clear evidence for the
permissibility of attaching protective incantations (ta`aweedhaat) to the necks of infants
and others.
From this point in the text is the conclusion of the actual prophetic character traits
with respect to the branches of faith (shu`b ‘l-imaan), which are seventy something (bid`u
wa saba`uun) qualities as it has been related in the prophetic tradition: “Belief is seventy
something traits.” The expression ‘bid`u’ (‘something’) is a portion or segment of
enumeration (qit`u mina’l-`addad) and comprises what is between three and what is less
than ten. Samra ibn Jundub said: “The expression ‘al-bid`u’ is what is not less than three
and not more than ten.” Allah ta`ala says: “…in some (bid`i) years…” Allah ta`ala also
says: “…for he tarried in prison some (bid`a) years…”; which means about seven years,
as Qatada cited. Mujaahid said that the expression comprises what is between three and
nine. Ibn Abass said that it comprises what is less than ten. Thus, the traits of belief
(shu`b ‘l-imaan) are what is between seventy-three and seventy-nine virtues or traits; as it
will be explained in the ending of the book, Allah ta`ala willing.
After the author, may the mercy of Allah be upon him mentioned the seventy
something character traits of the Chosen Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, which in essence, are
the traits of belief (shu`b ‘l-imaan), he then commenced to mentioning the character traits
of the Messenger of Allah in delivering the divine messages of Allah ta`ala to creation,
his guiding them to the way of righteousness, his purifying them and other than these
from the prophetic responsibility of commanding all that is good and forbidding all that is
evil. Allah ta`ala says: “O People of the Book, there has come to you Our Messenger,
who explains to you much of what you used to conceal from the Book, and overlooks
much. There has come to you from Allah an Illumination and a Clear Book. By means of
him Allah guides those who follow His pleasure, the ways of peace. He extracts them out
of the darkness into the Light by His permission and he guides them to the Straight Path.”
Allah ta`ala says: “Alif Laam Ra – A Book which We have revealed to you in order that
you may extract humanity out of the darkness into the Light by the permission of their
Lord and guide them to the Path of the All Mighty and Praiseworthy.” Allah ta`ala says:
“He is the One who revealed clear decisive signs upon His servant in order that he may
extract you out of the darkness into the Light, for indeed Allah is Kind and Merciful to
you all.”
Allah ta`ala says: “…a Messenger who recites clear signs of Allah to you in order
to extract those who believe and do good works from the darkness into the Light; for
those who believe and do righteous deeds will be entered into Gardens underneath where
rivers flow. They will reside in it forever, eternally. For, indeed Allah has provided an
excellent provision to him.” And other similar Qur’anic verses which give evidence of
the character traits of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in guiding creation to the Ways of right
consciousness (subul ‘r-rushd), and in extracting them from the darkness into the Light
by the permission of Allah ta`ala.
It is for this reason that some of the scholars of doctrines of belief make these
character traits necessary with regards to the rights of the Prophets, upon them be
blessings and peace. This is because praiseworthy character traits are inclusive of the
obligations of prophethood; i.e. the issue of the deliverance of the Divine message which
is obligatory with regards to their rights, upon them be blessings and peace. Consequently
every forth coming prophetic tradition and narrative will provide evidence that he, upon
him be blessings and peace, did indeed deliver the Divine message and gave sincere
counsel to the Umma to such an extent that we too can bear witness with the same
testimony of the righteous ancestors using the verbal expression of our grandfathers, that
the Prophet, did indeed deliver the Divine message and he gave sincere counsel to the
Umma. About that, the brother of the author, and his spiritual guide, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to both of them, said in his Takhmees rhyming in the
letter ‘ghayn’:
“He is rich with the bounties of his Lord, completely embellished with majesty
He is the succor of creatures, eloquently delivering messages into their very souls
He is abundant in generosity and completely free of what is blameworthy
He is the rain cloud by which the primordial waters of all life are replenished
From the spoils of the people of idolatry, he receives and distributes lawfully.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to encourage being filial
towards parents”, that is to say, looking after their worldly betterment, and bringing
about all lawful and inherent advantages for them. The author, may Allah be merciful to
him began with filial duty to parents because it is the first of the obligations after belief
and acceptance of the Divine unity (tawheed). He did this following the example of many
Qur’anic verses; such as Allah’s words to the Banu Isra’il: “Worship only Allah and be
good towards parents.” He ta`ala says: “Worship Allah and associate no partners with
Him, and be good towards parents.” He ta`ala says: “Say: come and I will relate to you
what your Lord has made forbidden: that you not associate anything as partners with
Him and be good to parents.” He ta`ala says: “Your Lord has decreed that you only
worship Him and that you be good towards parents.” In all these verses Allah `izza wa
jalla links the rights of parents with His Divine unity because the first and original
coming into being was from Allah, while the second growth, which comprises one’s
upbringing and fostering comes from the direction of parents.
It is for this reason that Allah ta`ala ties showing gratitude to parents with
showing gratitude to Him. He says: “…it is that you show gratitude to Me and to your
parents…” Thus, Allah makes gratitude towards Him a part of gratitude towards one’s
parents; which means that the pleasure and contentment of Allah is in gaining the
pleasure of parents, except in those matters which are forbidden. At-Tabaraani related a
prophetic tradition on the authority of Ibn Umar; which unequivocally corroborates this
principle where the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The contentment of the
Lord is in gaining the contentment of parents, and His indignation is in their indignation.”
Included in filial duty and showing gratitude towards parents is making
supplication for them. Ibn `Uyayna said regarding the exegesis of the words of Allah
ta`ala: “…that you show gratitude to Me and towards your parents…”; ‘Whoever prays
the five prayers has showed gratitude to Allah, and whoever then makes supplication for
his parents at the end of the prayer, has showed gratitude towards them.’ To this end, the
nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`
transmitted one of the best supplications for parents in his Majmuu` al-Istighfaar from the
words of Allah ta`ala: “Lord forgive me and my parents; be merciful towards them, and
be content with them with a contentment which will make them content with me. Lord be
merciful to them just as they brought me up when I was young.” Sultan Muhammad Bello
advised that this should be recited ten times. It is also permissible to mention it at the end
of the tashahhud during the prayer, or after the salaam; or anytime one likes.
Imam at-Tabari said in his Jaami`’l-Bayaan regarding the meaning of this verse:
“You should supplicate Allah for mercy towards parents; and say: ‘Lord be merciful to
them and show Your compassion towards them with Your forgiveness and mercy, just as
they showed compassion towards me when I was young. For, they were merciful to me
and raised me when I was young until I eventually became independent and self-reliant’.
This supplication is included in being filial towards parents. Allah ta`ala explains the
causative factor in being filial towards parents by His words: ‘And We entrusted
humanity to be good towards parents; for his mother carried him compulsorily and
delivered him compulsorily. She carried him and his weaning lasted thirty months until
he eventually attained his strength. When he attained forty years, he said: ‘Lord You have
commissioned me that I show gratitude for Your blessings which You have given me, and
my parents; and that I do good deeds that are pleasing; so ameliorate me regarding my
offspring. Indeed it is to You that I repent and I am among the Muslims’.”
Thus, the meaning of being filial towards parents is that you show excellent
righteousness towards them, or that you be good towards them by being virtuous to them
in words, deeds along with being tolerant towards them. Included in this is showing them
every kind of virtue. The author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` said in his Diya’t-
Ta’weel: “Thus, Allah places filial piety in the place of a prohibition of doing evil
towards parents; as a form of overstatement and evidence that avoiding doing evil
regarding their affair is not enough; unlike the case with others where avoiding doing evil
is appropriate. It is for this reason that He commends the responsibility of being good
towards them immediately after the responsibility of belief and acceptance of the Divine
unity; since parents alone have the right of raising (tarbiyya), showing compassion
(shafaqa), and protecting the child from destructive things when it was young. By
showing filial virtue towards parents, it is recognition of the outward causative factor for
existence and livelihood. Thus, filial virtue should be a given, and not simply be
connected to doing good towards them, since He did not precede this obligation with
keeping the ties of kinship.”
Shaykh Abdullahi also said in his exegesis regarding the words of Allah ta`ala:
“…and if one of them or both of them attain old age with you, then never say to them out
of frustration: ‘Oof!’ ; never rebuke them and say kind words to them. Lower the wing of
humility towards them as a mercy, and supplicate: Lord be merciful to them just as they
raised me when I was young”; “It is cited in a prophetic tradition that a man once said to
the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: ‘My parents have attained old age until I am
now responsible for taking care of what they were responsible for when I was young.
Have I fulfilled their rights’? He said: ‘No, because they used to do what they did for you
desiring your continuity, while you now do this desiring their demise’.
It has been related in the two Saheeh collections that a man once came to the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and said: ‘Give me permission to undertake the
jihad.’ He said: ‘Are your parents alive?’ He said: ‘Yes.’ He said: ‘Then it is regarding
them that you should struggle’. It has also been related in these two collections that a man
once came to the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and said: ‘Which of the people
have a greater right of my companionship?’ He said: ‘Your mother, then your mother,
then your father and then those who are closest in kinship’. It has been related by
Muslim: ‘The child can never suffice for the parent except if he discovers that his parent
is a slave, and he thus purchases him and then frees him.’ It has also been related in the
two Saheeh collections on the authority of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud who said: ‘I once asked
the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: Which action is more beloved to Allah?’ He
said: ‘Doing the prayer during its proper time.’ I then said: ‘Then which action follows?’
He said: ‘Showing filial virtue towards parents.’ I then said: ‘Then which follows?’ He
said: ‘Making the jihad in the Way of Allah’.”
Indeed the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬encouraged and incited filial piety towards
parents in many prophetic traditions similar to what has preceded like what was related
by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim, at-Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud and an-Nisaai’ on the authority
of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The most
beloved action to Allah is performing the prayer at its proper time, then filial piety
towards parents, and then making the jihad in the Way of Allah.” In a narration of the
same prophetic tradition by al-Bayhaqi, he, upon him be peace said: “The most superior
action is performing the prayer in its proper time; then filial piety towards parents, and
then making people safe from your tongue.”
It has been related by al-Qada`iy on the authority of Anas that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The Garden is underneath the feet of mothers.” In the
narration of Ibn Maja on the authority of Abu Amaama that he, upon him be peace said:
“They, the parents, are either your Garden or your Fire.” This means that the parents both
are the causative factor for you either entering the Garden or entering the Fire. Ahmad
related on the authority of In Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“The father and mother! I order that you do good by your parents!” This means that you
associate with them in good, show humility towards them, obey their commands, make
supplication for their forgiveness after they die, and keep ties with the people that they
loved.
At-Tirmidhi related on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah on the authority of the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said: “Whoever has in himself three things, Allah will
conceal him in His shade, and enter him into the Garden: being gentle towards the weak
and oppressed; showing compassion towards parents, and showing generous kindness
towards servants.” He, upon him be peace also said as it was related by ad-Daylami on
the authority of Abu ad-Darda’: “The central gate of Paradise is wide open for showing
filial piety towards parents. For, whoever acts virtuously towards them, will have it
opened wide for him. However, whoever is undutiful towards them will have the gate
locked against them.” Imam an-Nawwawi said regarding the meaning of filial piety: “It
means being generously kind towards them, behaving superbly with them and doing
everything which makes them happy. Inclusive in behaving excellent towards them is
behaving well with their friends as it was related in the Saheeh: ‘A part of filial piety
towards parents is a man connecting with the people that his parents loved’.”
The meaning of his words: “…and prohibited being undutiful to them”; is that
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be blessings and peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he forbade humanity from being
undutiful towards parents (`uquuq’l-waalidayn). The expression ‘`uquuq’
(undutifulness/disobedience) is from the verb ‘he was undutiful’ (`aqqa), ‘he is being
impious’ (ya`uqqahu) and ‘disobedience (`aqqan)’. This means that the most unbearable
thing is refusing to obey parents, cutting off relationships with them and not keeping the
ties of kinship with their relatives. Thus, the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prohibited this
because it is among the major sins (kabaa’ir).
It has been related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim, at-Tirmidhi and an-Nisaai’ on
the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Among the major sins are: associating partners with Allah, killing a soul, and being
undutiful towards parents (`uquuq’l-waalidayn). Shall I inform you of what the greatest
of the major sins is? It is making false testimony (qawl ‘z-zuur).” Ahmad, al-Bukhari,
Muslim and at-Tirmidhi related on the authority of Abu Bakra that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Shall I not inform you of the greatest of the major sins?
They are: associating partners with Allah; being undutiful towards parents and false
testimony.”
In the narration of al-Bizaar on the authority of Burayda that he upon him be
peace said: “The most immense major sins are: associating partners with Allah, being
undutiful towards parents and preventing others from having access to surplus water.” In
the narration of Ibn Jareer on the authority of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever establishes the prayers, gives the alms, fast
Ramadan and avoid the major sins will enter the Garden.” It was said: “What are the
major sins?” He said: “Associating partners with Allah, being undutiful towards parents,
and fleeing from an advancing army.”
In a prophetic tradition related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Umar, he
mentioned undutifulness to parents before mentioning associating partners with Allah:
“Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! For, whoever prays the five prayers and avoid the seven
major sins will enter in whichever gate of the Garden he likes: [1] being undutiful
towards parents; [2] associating partners with Allah; [3] killing a soul; [4] defaming a
woman known for her virtue; [5] consuming the wealth of an orphan; [6] fleeing from an
advancing army; and [7] consuming compounded interest.”
The meaning of his words: “He would remind people of the severe punishment
regarding that”; is that he warned people about the severe punishment (wa`eed
shaddeed) in being undutiful towards parents; where the expression ‘wa`eed’
(punishment) means ‘tahaddad’ (a menacing threat). Allah ta`ala says: “…and the
Trumpet will be blown, for that is the Day of punishment”; meaning it is the Day in which
Allah promised the disbelievers and disobedient among the Muslims that He will punish
them. Thus, the punishment is the chastisement (`adhaab) for those who disbelieve in
Allah, disobey Him, and act contrary to His commands and prohibitions established in
His Book or upon the tongue of His Messenger. He thus, describes the punishment of
being undutiful towards parents as being severe (shadeed) because it is the kind of
punishment which is hastened in this world’s life before death. Allah ta`ala says: “…and I
have caused the punishment to proceed upon you…”.
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬also mentioned the hastening of the
punishment for those who are undutiful towards parents in a narration related by at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “Allah ta`ala postpones whatever He wills from the punishment of every sin
except being undutiful towards parents. Indeed Allah ta`ala hastens the punishment of the
companion of this sin in the life of this world before death.” Indeed, he upon him be
blessings and peace incited humanity to be virtuous towards parents, forbade them from
being undutiful towards them and threatened them with a painful punishment due to
disobedience of them, because: “…he is warner to you in the presence of a severe
punishment.” The nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareefa:
“He is the trustworthy one whose trustworthiness is well known
He is the generous one whose generosity has become manifest
He is the firmly established whose station is thoroughly acknowledged
He is the most beloved whose intercession is hoped for
Against every distress from the ditresses that is going to come.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He commanded people to conceal
their private parts…” This means that he, upon him be peace ordered humanity to cover
the physical private parts of the body, but also to cover the immaterial privacy in order to
guard the eyesight, to encourage modesty and in order to protect them from searching
into the faults of others. As for covering the physical private parts, the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬commanded the people to guard them from the sight of men, djinn, Angels as
well as guarding them out of modesty before Allah subhanahu wa ta`ala. Allah ta`ala
says: “Take your beautification at every place of worship.” This means that you must
take clothing at its suitable place; which are appropriate attire to cover the private parts.
The expression Allah uses is an idiom describing an absolute state to be observed for a
place. In this is proof of the obligation to cover the private parts during prayer, as well as
the obligation by consensus to conceal the private parts from the sight of people.
 Abu Nu`aym narrated on the authority of Jaabir ibn Sakhr al-Badri who said: “I
once heard the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬say: ‘We have been commanded that
our private parts not be seen by others’.” Imam at-Tabaraani related on the authority of
Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The most evil of abodes is
the bathroom in which voices are raised and private parts are exposed. Whoever enters a
bathroom should not do so without being properly covered.” It has been related by
Ahmad, Ibn Maja, Ibn Mani` and others on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri and
Jaabir ibn Abdallah (using the latter’s wording), that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “The best lines of the men are the ones up front and the most evil of them are
the last lines. The most evil lines of the women are those up front and the best of them are
the last lines.” He then said: “O party of women, when you perform the prostration, lower
your gaze and do not look upon the private parts of the men due to the limited confines in
their lower garments.” These two cited prophetic traditions are clear refutations against
the devils among humanity who falsely claim the lawfulness of women praying in the
same lines as men; or the lawfulness of women praying in front of men.
As for covering the private parts from the sight of djinn, Angels and other subtle
spiritual beings, it has been related by Ahmad and at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Ali ibn
Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: “The concealment of the private parts of the children of Adam from the sight of the
djinn when they enter the toilet is their saying: ‘Bismillah’ (In the name of Allah).” In the
narration of Ibn as-Sunni on the authority of Anas ibn Malik: “The concealment of the
children of Adam from the sight of the djinn when a man desires to remove his clothing
is his saying: ‘Bismillahi, laa ilaha illa Huwa.’ (In the name of Allah, there is no deity
except Him.)” In another narration he said: “…when one of you sits in the toilet he
should say at the moment he sits: ‘Bismillah’ (In the name of Allah).”
It has been related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, Ibn Maja and an-Nisaai’
on the authority of Mu`awiyya ibn Jayda ibn Mu`awiyya al-Qushayri who said: “I once
said to the Messenger of Allah: ‘Regarding our private parts what are we required to
show and what are we warned to cover?’ He said: ‘Guard your private parts except from
the sight of your spouses or from what your rights hands possess’. I then said: ‘O
Messenger of Allah, what about when the people are socially intermixing with one
another?’ He said: ‘What you are capable of not looking at then do not look at’. I then
said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, what about when one of us are alone?’ He said: ‘Allah has a
greater right that you show more modesty with Him than with people’.”
It has been related by Ahmad on the authority of Layth that a large contingent of
people said that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said to A`isha regarding
Uthman ibn `Afan: “Will you not show modesty before one whom the Angels are
modest?” In the narration related by Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Abu Hurayra that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Uthman is so modest that even the Angels
are modest in his presence.”
As for as the legal limits of the private parts of the body, the brother of the author,
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Umdat’l-Bayaan: “The private parts (`awrat) of
the man, the captive girl, and a free woman (around other women) is what lies between
the navel and the knee. The private parts of the free woman in the presence of a strange
man (ajnabiyu), is her entire body except the hands and face. The private parts of the
woman with her male relatives which she is forbidden to marry (mahram) is the entire
body except the face and the extremities (atraaf) - like the head, arms, legs and feet.
What can be seen from a strange man (ajnabiy) is the same as what can be seen from a
mahram and likewise this is what can be seen by other men (that is the entire body except
what lies between the navel and the knees). The captive girl (amat) is not required to
cover her head. It is customary for a free woman to uncover her breasts and extremities at
certain times, just as the captive girl can uncover her thighs when the place is free of the
presence of men. It is highly recommended (istahabba) for the captive mother of a son
(umm walad) and a young girl to cover themselves and it is obligatory for the free woman
who has attained maturity.”
It is a part of the Sunna that a man make his best appearance for the prayer, and
that he wear his best attire for the juma`a and `Eid prayers. It has been related in the
Saheeh of al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Hurayra who said: “The Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬forbade wrapping one’s body with a single garment so tight that
one could not raise its end or take one’s hands out of it. He also forbade sitting on the
buttocks wrapped in a single garment (without anything covering the private parts) with
the knees close to the abdomen and feet apart, while the hands circled the knees.”
As for covering immaterial privacy (sitr’l-`awraat ‘l-ma`anawiy), the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered people to cover their privacy and faults from people. He
also ordered them to cover the privacy and faults of the people and not mention what they
have seen of these to others. This was explained by Ali ibn Abi Talib, by his words:
“Everything has a hidden aspect and an exposed aspect (jawaaniy wa bawaaniy).
Whoever rectifies his hidden aspect, Allah will rectify his exposed aspect. Whoever
corrupts his hidden aspect, Allah will corrupt his outer aspect.” This means that
everything has an outward and inward (dhawaahir wa bawaatin). Or it means that
everything has its public face and secret face (`alaaniyya wa sirr); whoever covers his
faults in secret and rectifies them, Allah will cover his faults in public and rectify them.
It has been related by Muslim, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nisaai’, Ibn Maja and Abu Dawud,
using the latter wording on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: “Whoever covers a Muslim, Allah will cover him in this world and the Hereafter.
For, Allah is in the assistance of the servant as long as the servant in the assistance of his
brother.” This means whoever covers the exposed body of a Muslim, or covers his
exposed faults without slandering him and defends his honor, Allah will not disgrace him
by manifesting his faults and sins on the Day of Judgment. Whoever looks after the needs
of his brother, or assists him in fulfilling his needs, then Allah will look after his needs.
In the narration of Muslim on the authority of Abu Hurayra he said that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “A servant does not cover another servant in this world
except that Allah will cover him on the Day of Judgment.” Qadi `Iyad said regarding the
meaning of this prophetic tradition: “There are two conceivable meanings being
expressed here. The first is covering acts of disobedience and faults from disclosure to
people; and the second is avoiding holding them to account for it and avoiding
mentioning it.”
It has been related by Abu Dawud and others on the authority of `Uqba ibn
`Aamir that once his freedman, al-Haytham said to him: “Indeed our neighbors drink
wine, so I am summoning the sheriff so that he can arrest them.” `Uqba then said: “Do
not do that. Rather you should admonish them and try and prevent them.” Al-Haytham
said: “I have already forbade them from that, but they did not heed me. So, I will
summon the sheriff for them to be arrested!” `Uqba then said: “Woe to you! Do not do
that! Indeed, I once heard the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬say: ‘Whoever covers
privacy, it is as though he has given life to the dead in their graves’.”
The meaning of his words: “…and severely censured following after the
privacy of the people”; is that he, upon him be blessings and peace sternly prohibited
people from following after the faults of others and being preoccupied with their sins.
This is because this sinful act returns back to the perpetrator. Whoever seeks to expose
people, will himself be exposed accordingly.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Ibn Umar that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “O you party who have accepted Islam with the tongues,
and whose faith has not seeped into the hearts; do not harm Muslims. Do not dishonor
them, and do not follow after their faults. For, whoever follows after the faults of his
fellow Muslim, Allah will follow after his faults. Whoever’s faults Allah follows after He
exposes them even in the recesses of his baggage.”
In a narration of Ibn Maja on the authority of Ibn Abass: “Whoever covers the
faults of his fellow Muslim, Allah will cover his faults on the Day of Judgment. Whoever
uncovers the faults of his fellow Muslim, Allah will uncover his faults until He exposes
him, even in the recesses of his home.” In the narration of at-Tabaraani: “…Allah will
expose him and reveal his faults openly, even if he were in the concealment of his own
home.” In another narration: “…Allah will follow after his faults until Allah makes him
dread what has occurred inside his home.” This means that even if the person was sitting
in the middle of his home hiding from the people. Allah ta`ala says: “Indeed those who
love that indecency be spread regarding those who believe, for them will be a painful
punishment in this life and the Hereafter.”
The blood brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Ihya’s-
Sunna’l-Muhammadiyya wa Ikhmad’l-Bid`a ‘s-Shaytaaniyya: “He whose aim is to bring
shame upon people and be preoccupied with their faults, Allah will question him and
reckon with him. For whoever pursues the faults of his brother, Allah will pursue his
faults until he exposes him, even if he be in the recesses of his home. Believers ask for
excuses while hypocrites pursue the faults of others and Allah helps a person as long as
he helps his brother. It is related in the Muwatta: ‘Do not examine the faults of people as
if you were a Lord, but rather examine your own faults as though you were a slave.’
As-Sulami said in his Kitaab `Uyuub 'n-Nafs: ‘Among the faults of the self (nafs)
is being preoccupied with the faults of people and being blind to one's own faults.’
Muhammad ibn Abdullah ibn Shaadan said: ‘I heard Ibn Zaydan say: ‘I saw some of the
people who had many faults, and as a result they were quiet concerning the faults of other
people. Thus Allah covered their faults and wiped them out. Then I saw some of the
people who did not have faults but were preoccupied with the faults of other people, as a
result many faults befell them’.”
All of this is evidence that he, upon him be blessings and peace ordered the
people to conceal the privacy of others, and he forbade them from following each other’s
faults. The foundation for the value of covering the privacy of others and being
preoccupied with one’s own faults over following the faults of others, come from what
Shaykh Abdullahi eloquently and succently described in his Manan al-Manaan where he
said:
“Then believe that you are not abundant
In the good He has given you; rather you are deficient.
And that you do not truly fulfill the rights that Allah
Has placed upon you; not even an atoms weight – O forgetful one!
How can it not be, when all this good is from Him to you, and believe
After this, … that you are not better, in the least, than anyone.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to say” by way of giving
sincere advice to his Companions, or Umma, as it was related by Ahmad on the authority
of Abu Hurayra and A`isha; by al-Bukhari, Muslim and Abu Dawud on the authority of
Abu Hurayra; by al-Khateeb on the authority of Ibn Shurayh al-Khazaa`iy; at-Tabaraani
on the authority of Ibn Abass; by Abu’s-Shaykh and Abu Nu`aym on the authority of
Anas ibn Malik; and by Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam and al-Bayhaqi on the authority of a
man from among the Ansaar, that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Whoever
truly believes in Allah and the Last Day…”, which means that whoever has perfected
his belief (kamaal ‘l-Imaan); i.e.; whoever believes with perfect belief. Here the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬singled out belief in Allah and the Last Day for
mentioning as an indication (ishaara) of the beginning and end (al-mabda’ wa’l-mi`aad)
of all affairs. This means that whoever believes in Allah who created him, and believes
that He will eventually recompense him for his behavior; then it is necessary for him to
perform the following actions. For, if he does not perform these actions then his belief
will be deficient (fa imaanuhu naaqis). The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬only
cited the two peripheries of belief (Allah and the Last Day) for brevity (ikhtisaaran). Or
he cited them as a reminder (‘ish`aaran) that Allah and the Last Day are the foundation
of belief (al-‘asl); or he restricted it to mentioning these two as a form of threat or
intimidation (tahdeed); as the scholars of the Sunna said.
The meaning of his words upon him be peace: “…(he) should never cause harm
to his neighbor…”; is that he should not cause any danger to befall him (laa yadurrahu)
or act unjustly towards him (wa laa yadhlimahu). In a narration of al-Bukhari he said:
“…he should not then cause harm to his neighbor”; where the letter ‘ya’ at the end of the
verb ‘yu`adhi’ (harm) to express prohibition (an-nahyi) was omitted. Incorporating the
letter ‘ya’ at the end of the verb expresses the clear aim of prohibition, and thus it is more
articulate (ablagh); as Imam an-Nawwawi cited. Thus, the statement means that he
should not harm his neighbor with his tongue, hand, or by boasting over him with his
worldly possessions or the like. Or it means that he should not harm his neighbor in his
religion (deen), honor (`ird), wealth (maal), or womenfolk (hurma).
The meaning of his words upon him be peace: “…but should be benevolent
towards him”; is that he should honor him (yakrimahu) with his tongue, wealth and
other than these from acts of generosity and virtue (min ‘l-juud wa’l-birr). In the
prophetic tradition related by Abu Shurayh he said: “…he should then show honor to his
neighbor.” This means that he should show him every type of excellent behavior, nobility
and bounty (bi jamee` anwaa` ‘l-khayr wa ‘s-shurf wa ‘l-fadaa’il). It has been related by
Muslim in a prophetic tradition of Abu Hurayra by way of al-`Amish on the authority of
Abu Saalih (using his wording): “…he should behave excellently towards his neighbor.”
There have been many prophetic traditions narrated which can be interpolated to
show respect (ikraam) and excellent generosity (ihsaan) towards neighbors. Among them
is what was related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Mu`adh ibn Jabal that one of the
Companions of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once asked him: “O Messenger of Allah,
what is the right of the neighbor upon the neighbor?” He said: “When he seeks a loan
from you advance it to him, and when he seeks your help, give it to him. When he
becomes ill, visit him, and when he is in need, give him. When he is impoverished,
expend towards him. If he is affected with some good, show him your support, and if he
is afflicted with some harm, show sympathy for him. When he dies, follow behind his
funeral procession. Do not contruct a building which overshadows him and blocks the
breezes from reaching him, except with his permission. Do not harm him by the scent and
smells of your meals, except if you ladle out some for him as well. When you purchase
fruit, buy some as a gift for him. If you are unable to do this, then enter the fruits in home
surreptitiously, and do not allow your child to go out eating these in order not to annoy
his child.”
It has been related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari and Muslim: “He will not enter the
Garden, whose neighbor is not safe from his misfortunes.” ‘Misfortunes (bawaa’iq) here
refer to his evils and dangers (sharrihi wa ghaa’ilatihi). In this narration the expression
‘misfortune’ (baa’iq) means ‘thirst’ (`atash) and ‘injustice’ (dhulm).
The Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prohibited causing harm to neighbors and
commanded showing honor, respect and benevolence to them following the example of
the words of Allah ta`ala when He says: “and be good to the parents and to the near of
kin and the orphans and the needy and the close neighbor and the alien neighbor, and the
companion in a journey and the wayfarer and those whom your right hands possess;
surely Allah does not love him who is proud, boastful.” The meaning of His words being
good to: “the close neighbor” is closeness as a neighbor, closeness in relationship or
closeness in religion; as the author, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in his
Quranic exegesis, the Diya at-Ta’weel.
He also said in it: “It has been cited by al-Bukhari on the authority of A`isha, who
said: ‘I once asked the Messenger of Allah ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬saying: I have two neighbors.
Which of them should I be more generous in given gifts to?’ He said: ‘To the one whose
door is nearest you.’ The meaning of His words: ‘and the alien neighbor’ is the neighbor
whose house is far from; or it means the neighbor is far from you in relationship. Az-
Zuhri said that furthest neighbor is the one whom there is forty homes between you.
Thus, the right of every neighbor is that they be shown honor and respect and not causing
them harm. It has been related by al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said: ‘The Angel Jibreel continued to admonish me about treating the
neighbors kindly and politely so much so that I assumed that he would order me to make
them inherit from me’. In another prophetic tradition, he ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘The best
of neighbors are those who the best towards neighbors’.”
The bottom line is that the prohibition of causing harm to neighbors, and the
obligation of honoring them and being generous towards them differ based upon the
difference of personalities and circumstances. It can be an individual obligation (fard
`ayn) with respect to certain personalities and a collective obligation (fard kifaayya) with
regard to others. While it can be highly recommended (mustahiban) with respect to
others; yet with respect to all, this virtuous neighborly behavior is a part of the noble
character (makaarim’l-akhlaaq) of the Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The brother of the
author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said about the Prophet in his ad-Daaliyya:
“O you who attempt to enumerate the remarkable feats of Muhammad
You there, are you able to measure the foams of the sea?
Who is there that can count the sand pebbles in their exactitude?
The miracles of Muhammad is even more uncountable than that
Glory be to the One who has given him to us as a gift; the greatest of favors
Who is able to enumerate and count the praises of Muhammad?”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people…”;
i.e. his Companions, his Umma and others among mankind: “…to keep the ties of
kinship.” The definition of the expression ‘rahima’ (relationship) or ‘rahm’ (womb)
refers to the bonds of kinship and its causes (`alaaqat’l-qaraaba wa asbaabuhaa). Its
etymology is from the home which is the origin of one’s birth (bayt manbat’l-walad), but
also to the receptacle of birth in the abdomen (wi`aahu fee’l-batan). Thus, the expression
‘rahm’ (ties of kinship) applies to everything which connects a person with his lineage. In
the science of inheritance (faraa’id) it refers unrestrictedly to the all kinships through
women. Now the term is enlarged to include all ties of kinship be they remote or near, by
means of and agency or not. Its plural form is ‘al-arhaam’. Allah ta`ala says: “Be
fearfully aware of Allah in Whom you claim your rights of one another, and towards the
wombs that bore you.” This means be fearfully aware of Allah by following His
commands and avoiding His prohibitions; be fearfully aware of Him regarding what is
between you; and be fearfully aware of cutting off the ties of kinship (wa ataquu ‘an
taqta`uu ‘l-arhaam).
The author, Professor Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him said
regarding the meaning of the words of Allah ta`ala: “and towards the wombs that bore
you”; is fear Allah or have fearful awareness of Allah regarding cutting off the ties of
kinship to the wombs that bore you. In ancient times people used to praise people
regarding the kinship of the wombs that bore them, meaning those close in kinship. Ibn
al-Arabi said in his al-Ahkaam: “The Umma is unanimous regarding that connecting with
the ties of kinship is an obligation and that cutting these ties is prohibited.” Imam al-
Baydawi said: “Allah, glory be to Him, has informed us by connecting the name of the
wombs that bore us (arhaam) with His Divine Name (Rahmaan) that maintaining the ties
of kinship has an immense place with Him. It is about this that he, upon him be peace
said: ‘The womb which gives birth (raham) is connected to the very Throne of Allah and
says: ‘Whoever connects with me, Allah will connect him. Whoever cuts off from me,
Allah will cut him off’.”
It has been related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Indeed Allah ta`ala recorded in the Mother of
the Book before He created the heavens and the earth: ‘Indeed I am the All
Compassionate (ar-rahmaan) and the Merciful (ar-raheem). I have created the wombs of
kinship (rahm) and made it a name derived from My two Names. Whoever keeps the
connections of kinship I will connect him to My compassion and mercy. Whoever breaks
this connection, I will break him from them’.”
There has been related many prophetic traditions regarding the obligation of
keeping the ties of kinship and the prohibition of breaking them. It has been related by
Muslim on the authority of Abu Ayyub al-Ansaari that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “Worship Allah, and do not associate any partners with Him. Establish the
prayer, give the obligatory alms and keep the ties of kinship.”
Imam an-Nawwawi said regarding the meaning of his words: “…and keep the ties
of kinship”; this means to behave generously towards your close kin who possess kinship
through the wombs that bore you, by expending (‘infaaq) what is easy for you based
upon your and their circumstances; or by giving them the greetings of peace, visiting
them, obeying them and the like. It has been related by ad-Daylami on the authority of
Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Two people Allah will
not even look at on the Day of Judgment: the one who cuts the ties of kinship, and the
malevolent neighbor.” It is for this reason that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered his
Companions and Umma to behave with excellent generosity (al-ihsaan) towards their
close of kin (‘aqaarib) and in-laws (‘ashaar); to show compassion towards them (ar-rifq
bihim); to pardon their slips (`afuw zalaatihim); to give them sincere counsel
(nasahahum); and to show affection towards them (at-tawaddadu ‘ilayhim). This is of
course if they are not disbelieving enemies of Allah.
Allah ta`ala says regarding our master Ibrahim and his relationship with his
disbelieving father: “When it became clear to him that he was an enemy of Allah, he freed
himself from him”; which means that he cut himself off from him (qata`a `anhu). The
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to praise those Companions of his that
maintained the ties of kinship, as a way of showing kindness to them, acting courteously
with them, and recognizing their virtues and bounty with Allah ta`ala. This is because
keeping the ties of kinship is a part of the Muhammadan character traits and among the
outstanding ethics of the praiseworthy Awliyya.
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa quoting him, upon him be peace describing one of
his Companions: “…He used to maintain his ties of kinship.” He said this without giving
them preference over those who were better than them. He, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Indeed
the family of the father of so-and-so are not close associates of mine, except that they
have with me some ties of kinship. Therefore, I try and refresh relationship with them by
behaving with affection with them.’ It is reported that once the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬while Umama, the daughter of Zaynab clung to his neck. Whenever he would
make the prostration, he would place her on the ground, and whenever he would stand he
would pick her up.
It has been related on the authority of Qatada that a delegation once arrived from
the Ethiopian king, an-Najaashi. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬then commenced to
personally serving them. His Companions said to him: ‘We can suffice for you in this.’
He said: ‘Indeed these people honored and respected my Companions, so I desire to
recompense them for that.’ This meant that he desired to return the favor to them for
showing respect and honor to his Companions. There was no honor more immense than
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬taking care of their affairs and serving them
himself.” This is evidence that showing respect and honor for those who honored one’s
relatives and companions is also a part of keeping the ties of kinship (sillat’r-rahm).
Connecting with kinship is among the most important of the spiritual courtesies of
those traveling the spiritual journey. By means of maintaining the ties of kinship, the
spiritually elite are able to behave and interact on the level of the common among the
righteous servants of Allah. Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`
said in his Majmu` an-Nasab: “Realize that keeping the ties of kinship (sillat’l-arhaam) is
among the most sublime spiritual stations (‘ajal’l-maqaamaat) and the most exalted
forms of drawing near to Allah (wa `aalaa’l-qaruubaat); while cutting the ties of kinship
(qata`ahaa) is among the most severe causes of destruction (`ajal’l-mawbuqaat) and the
greatest of the major sins and evil (wa ‘akbar’l-kabaa’ir wa’s-say’aat).” It is for this
reason that the Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to order the people to maintain the ties of
kinship. The author, may Allah be merciful to him said about the Prophet ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
“By means of him, the most defensive robe is worn, he is the most momentous appeal
The light of guidance, flowing from the most noble of ancestry
The refuge of orphans and the succor of the weak
The ocean of generosity, who quenches those thirsting for the watering place.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He would encourage people”; that is
to say, he would urge or exhort the people (wahadu ‘n-naas) or that he would motivate
them (yahraduhum): “…to take care of the needs of the Muslims”; by his words, upon
him be blessings and peace in many prophetic traditions; among them being what was
related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the authority of Ibn `Amr: “When Allah
desires good for a servant He causes him to be preoccupied with fulfilling the needs of
people.” This means that He places him at the service of fulfilling the needs of others
(astikhdamahu `ala dhalika). In a narration of ad-Daylami on the authority of Anas ibn
Malik: “When Allah desires good for a servant, He places the needs of the people upon
his shoulders.” This means that He makes their needs and requirements his responsibility.
It has been related by al-Khateeb also on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that he
said that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever fulfills a need from the
worldly needs of his brother Muslim, Allah ta`ala will fulfill seventy-two of his needs,
the least of them being forgiveness.” In another narration by Ibn Abi ad-Dunya again on
the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Whoever fulfills a need of a Muslim will have the reward in the Hereafter like one who
served Allah his entire lifetime.” In the narration of Ibn `Asaakir: “Whoever fulfills a
need of a Muslim for the sake of Allah, Allah will record for him to the extent of the age
of this world, which is seven thousand years, as if he had fasted all of its days and stood
in prayer all of its nights.” These prophetic traditions prove that he upon him be
blessings and peace used to persuade people to fulfill the needs of Muslims by expending
their selves and their wealth in their religious and worldly affairs.
The meaning of his words: “…cause happiness to enter among them”; is that he
upon him be peace used to encourage his Companions to cause genuine joy (rakhaa’) and
cheerfulness (bahja) to enter the hearts of the people, by concealing their faults (bi sitr
`awraatihim), feeding the hungry among them (wa ‘ashba`a jaw`atihim), fulfilling their
needs (wa qadaa lahum hawaa’ijahum) and other similar acts of praiseworthy character
in serving the people. It has been related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Ibn Abass
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The most beloved of behaviors to
Allah after performing the obligations is entering happiness among Muslims.” In another
narration he said: “…among the believers.” This means by fulfilling a worldly
requirement of his, taking care of a need of his, or removing a distress from him; as it was
explicitly stated in a mursal prophetic tradition on the authority of Ibn al-Munkadir.
It has been related by Ibn Abi ad-Dunya on the authority of Ja`far as-Saadiq on
the authority of his father, Muhammad al-Baqir ibn Ali Zayn’l-`Abideen ibn al-Husayn
on the authority of his grandfather, Ali ibn Abi Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬once said: “There is no believer who causes happiness to enter the heart of
another believer, except that Allah creates from that cause of happiness an Angel who
worships Allah, extols Him and unifies Him. When that believer dies and is brought to
his grave, that happiness which he caused to affect the believer comes and enters the
grave with him. It will say to him: ‘Do you not recognize me?’ The servant will say:
‘Who are you?’ It will say: ‘I am the happiness which you caused to enter into the heart
of so-and-so. This Day, I will be the intimacy which removes the alienation of the grave.
I will provide you with your evidence. I will establish you with a well established word. I
will bear witness for you at the scene of the Day of Judgment. I will intercede for you
with your Lord, and I will show you your place in the Garden’.”
The expression ‘happiness’ (suruur) is the opposite of ‘sadness’ (huzin), thus
there is no behavior superior to lifting sadness from the hearts of the believers. Ibrahim
ibn Adham, may Allah be merciful to him once said: “Causing happiness to enter the
heart of a believer and fulfilling their needs, is more beloved to me than worshipping
Allah one’s entire lifespan.” This is because the servant cannot achieve the perfections of
saintliness (kumaal’l-wilaaya) through his worship of Allah alone; but by expending
himself in the service of the poor, the destitute, widows, orphans and the strangers among
the Muslims, fulfilling their needs, and giving sincere counsel to them.
There has been related a prophetic tradition from at-Tabaraani on the authority of
Abdallah ibn Mas`ud that he, upon him be blessings and peace said regarding the
perfected sages, the ‘abdaal’: “…By means of them Allah defends the people of the
earth. They are called the ‘abdaal’. They do not achieve this station by prayer, fasting or
giving alms.” The Companions said: “Then, by what do they achieve this?” He said: “By
means of generous openhandedness, peaceful hearts and giving sincere counsel to
Muslims.” In another narration he said: “…rather by the philanthropy of their souls,
peaceful hearts and giving sincere counsel to Muslims.” In another narration he said:
“…They attain this station by munificence toward others, sound and healthy hearts and
being the source of sound advice to all the Muslims.”
The meaning of his words: “…showing compassion towards humanity and
animals”; is that he, upon him be blessings and peace used to encourage the people or
motivate them to show mercy (rahma), sympathy (hanaan) and affection (`atf) towards
people and the creatures of Allah because these traits are among the eternal qualities of
Allah (akhlaaq Allah), exalted and majestic be His Name, and these are among the noble
traits of His Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Shihab’d-Deen said in his Naseem’r-Riyaad:
“Indeed compassion (shafaqa) means showing mercy (rahma), being soft hearted (riqqat
qalb) and fearing the befalling of misfortune upon those for whom one has sympathetic
compassion (khawf min nuzuul makruuh bi man yashaffaqa `alayhi).” For, by means of
sympathetic compassion (shafaqa), the servant is able to behave with the qualities of
Allah (yatakhalluqu bi akhlaaq Allah).
Allah ta`ala says describing Himself: “Indeed Allah is Kind and Merciful to
humanity.” He ta`ala also describes His Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with His words: “There
has come to you a Messenger from yourselves, dear to him is what afflicts you, deeply
concerned for you, and to the believers he is kind and merciful.” Both kindness and
mercy embrace the meaning of sympathetic compassion (shafaqa). Thus, Allah ta`ala
gave him two names from His Names: Kind and Merciful, and made him behave in
accordance with His qualities (ja`alahu yatakhalluq bi akhlaaqihi), by his giving sincere
advice to humanity (bi naseehatihi li’-naas), by his concern in guiding them (hirsihi `ala
hidaayatihim) and by the severity of his dislike for any harm afflicting them in this life
and the Next. It is for this reason that he upon him be blessings and peace motivated the
people to follow him in his nobility (sharf), benevolence (fadl) and integrity (‘amaana)
towards Allah’s creatures.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “There are three things that whoever has
them, Allah will protect him and enter him into the Garden: being gentle with the weak
and oppressed; being sympathetic towards parents and showing excellent generosity
towards those under one’s charge.” Those which fall under one’s charge (mamluuk)
include all humans and animals that are under one’s responsibility. It has been related by
at-Tabaraani on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “There is no creature which flies or other than it which is killed without
right, except that it will argue on its behalf with Allah on the Day of Judgment.” Just as it
is obligatory for a Muslim to be merciful and compassionate towards human beings,
likewise it is obligatory for him to behave with the same character towards all animals.
For, sympathetic compassion (shafaqa), mercy, (rahma), liberality (juud) and
excellent generosity (ihsaan) are among the praiseworthy redemptive character traits that
it is obligatory for every Muslims to behave with. Allah ta`ala says: “And encourage one
another to perseverance and encourage one another to compassion. These are the
companions of the Right Hand.” Thus, showing mercy and sympathetic compassion
towards creatures, such as freeing the enslaved, assisting the oppressed against
oppressors, feeding the orphan, the destitute and weak; or by doing those things which
necessitate the descent of the mercy of Allah, such as: establishing the punitive
punishments, exacting retribution for the victims of injustice and establishing the jihad
against the disbelievers are all a part of the mercies that the servant shows to humanity.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi and Abu Dawud on the authority of Abdallah
ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The compassionate, the
Compassionate One tabaarruk wa ta`ala will show compassion to them; so be
compassionate towards those in the earth and the One who is in the heavens will be
compassionate to you.” It is concerning the meanings of this blessed prophetic tradition
that Ibn Bataal said: “In it is encouragement (had) to behave with merciful compassion to
all creatures. This includes the believer, the disbeliever, animals, those under one’s
charge and those outside one’s charge. Included in this showing of mercy is making
pledges (ta`aahid) to feed food and provide drink to others, to lighten burdens, and to
avoid infringements by unjustly beating creatures. For, compassion towards humans,
highly regarded domesticated animals, but rather, all creatures by being sympathetic,
liberal and consoling to them are all a part of the requirements of the descent of the
mercy of Allah, and are among the causative factors for the attainment of the greatest
sagehood (min asbaab’l-wilaayat ‘l- kubraa).”
Imam at-Tayyibi said: “In this prophetic tradition the use of the comprehensive
wording (seegha’l-`umuum) is inclusive of every category of creatures. Thus, one is
required to be merciful to the virtuous and the wicked, to rational creatures and dumb
beasts, to wild animals and birds.” In this prophetic tradition is indications that Allah, His
Angels and other spiritual beings will supplicate for him, and for those on earth to attain
His baraka, mercy and forgiveness.
It is in regarding this that the Knower of Allah, Shaykh Abd’l-Qaadir ibn Mustafa
said in his al-`Uhuud wa’l-Mawaatheeq: “I have taken a solemn oath and covenant to
spread the wing of compassion to everything in creation, and to look upon them with the
Eye which the Absolute Being looked upon them when He desired to create them; to
desire for them gentleness (rifq); to extend to them pity (hanaan) and kindness (lutf),
regardless if they be believer, disbeliever, righteous, wicked, human, jinn, animal,
vegetation, rock or mineral. For this reason, every day I have necessitated on myself a
universal supplication (‘iltazamtu fee nafsiy ad-da`awat ‘l-`aama) for good for the whole
of creation by saying: ‘O Allah be merciful to the whole of Your creation and suffice
them where they are unable.’ I say this three times each day, intending by that to perform
this all embracing covenant to ward off, where I am able, and the enactment of the
destructive decrees upon them.” This kind of solemn covenant is among the special
responsibilities of the compassionate Awliyya who are the locus of the manifestation of
the station of the mercy of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, when He `izza wa
jalla says: “We have not sent you except as a mercy to all the worlds.” This refers ro the
protected friends, those who have inherited from him from among the compassionate
ones. A poet said:
“Be compassionate, O brother, to the servants of Allah, all of them
And look upon them with the eye of genuine affection and sympathy
Show respect and honor to the elders among them and be merciful to their young
And be a shephard to all of creation with the same contenance of their Creator.”
The meaning of his words: “…endeavoring to take care of the welfare of all”;
is that he upon him be blessings and peace used to encourage the people, or to motivate
them to expend their energies in taking care of the welfare of the people and all creatures,
by means of their intercession on their behalf, their assistance to them, their fulfilling
their needs, their clarifying to them what is best for them in their worldly and religious
affairs, and eradicating all of their difficulties. For, striving in the welfare of the whole
creation of Allah is from the signs of love of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and it is among
the marks of the Awliyya of Allah, and finally it is a part of the obligatory responsibilities
of the rulers of the Muslims and their governments.
The meaning of his words: “…bringing about reconciliation between people”;
is that he upon him be blessings and peace used to encourage the people or motivate them
to judge between people with equity by warding off oppressors and adjudicating into
what occurs between two disputing litigants. Allah ta`ala says: “…and ameliorate what
occurs between you.” That is to say, in order to ward off the powerful from the weak, and
to adjudicate between them with justice and impartiality. Allah ta`ala says: “So therefore
ameliorate between your brothers”; which means between your fellow Muslim brothers,
when there occurs between them fighting (qitaal) or disputes (‘ikhtilaaf). It has been
related by al-Haakim and Abu Ya`ala on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Fear Allah and ameliorate what is between
yourselves. Indeed Allah will ameliorate between the Muslims on the Day of Judgment.”
The most decisive evidence (ad-daleel ‘l-qaati`i) that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
used to urge the people to fulfill the needs of the Muslims, to cause happiness to enter
their hearts, to have sympathy for all of Allah’s creatures, to endeavor in all of their
affairs, and to ameliorate between them is what was related by Ibn Abi ad-Dunya and at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to the
people. The most beloved of actions to Allah `izza wa jalla is the happiness that one
brings to a Muslim; removing distress from him; paying off his debts; or banishing
hunger from him. That I go with my brother Muslim in order to fulfill his need is more
beloved to me than spending the nights for a full month in solitude in this masjid of mine.
For, whoever restrains his anger, Allah will conceal his faults. Whoever controls his
wrath, even when he has the right to carry it out, Allah will fill his heart with contentment
on the Day of Judgment. Whoever goes with his brother Muslim in order to fulfill a need
of his until it has been accomplished, Allah ta`ala will establish his feet firm on a Day
when feet will slip. For, indeed evil character spoils righteous actions the way vinegar
spoils honey.”
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Among the true signs of love for the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is showing sympathetic compassion for his Umma, giving them sincere
counsel, endeavoring in their welfare, and lifting from them all dangers and harm; just as
the Messenger, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was: ‘…with the believers kind and merciful’.” It is thus,
obligatory for us to imitate and follow him in that, and to behave in accordance with his
noble character traits; as Shaykh Shihab’d-Deen al-Khufaaji said in his Naseem’r-Riyaad.
The meaning of his words: “…and acceptance of the excuses of those who
proffered excuses whether their excuses were genuine or bogus”; is that he upon him
be blessings and peace used to encourage the people or motivate them to accept the
excuses from those who gave excuses, regardless if their excuses were sound (saheeh) or
false (baatil). This is because this noble behavior is a part of covering the faults of the
people, forbearance, pardoning, kind, merciful, lenient and it is the perfection of
manliness.
Qadi `Iyad related in his as-Shifa on the authority of Jareer ibn Abdallah that he
once described our master Muhammad, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with the following words: “…and
he used to accept the excuses of those who offers excuses.” That is to say, that he would
accept everyone who gave him an excuse regardless if that excuse was true (haqeeqa) or
not; and regardless if it was in his best interest to accept his excuse or not. For, the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬accepted the excuses of those who wanted to stay
behind in the battle of Tabuk, when some of them said to him: “Give me permission and
do not tempt us with the women.” Thus, Allah ta`ala revealed His words about them:
“And among them are those who say: ‘Give us permission, and do not tempt us.” Thus,
the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬accepted their excuses, and simply consigned what was
concealed in their souls to Allah ta`ala. Similarly, he, upon him be peace accepted the
excuse of Haatib ibn Abi Balta`a when he wrote a letter to the people of Mecca informing
them of the way that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬would take in order to
conquer Mecca. There was also the acceptance of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
of the many excuses of the hypocrites, even their denial of Allah ta`ala; as Shaykh
Shihab’d-Deen al-Khufaaji explicitly stated in his Naseem’r-Riyaad.
All of these praiseworthy character traits and noble courtesies are from the portion
of prophethood. They are from the innate character of our Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬which
he behaved with and encouraged humanity to act upon, in order to perfect noble character
in them. The nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said about the Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef:
“Indeed, prophethood exceeds the sun in transcendence
Rather, it transcends in rank what no part of creation as attained
While the Prophets transcend in nobility every exceptional thing
He (Muhammad) transcends the Prophets in physical and character traits
For none of them ever attained his level of knowledge nor traits of nobility.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people…”;
that is to say, he used to order his Companions and Umma with a command that was
legally highly recommended (‘amran mustahiban) and not a command that was legally
obligatory (laa waajib). He commanded them: “…to visit brothers…”; meaning friends,
acquaintances and close relatives who were loved for the sake of Allah. The Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded the people to visit one another purely and sincerely for the sake of
Allah; not in order to gain from the one visited (mazuur) any recompense or thanks.
Rather, they were ordered to visit one another out of love for Allah. For, the expression
‘ziyaara’ (a visit) is taking from the expression ‘zawar’ (inclination) and means ‘mayl’
(predilection/ tendency), like when you say: ‘zaar fulaan fulaanan’ (So-and-so is fond of
so-and-so); where the expression means ‘to be partial towards him’ (mayl ‘ilayhi), or ‘to
love him’ (yuhibbahu). It has been related by Malik with a sound chain of authority going
back to the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬that he said: “Allah ta`ala says: ‘My love
is obligatory for those who love each other for My sake; who sit with one another for My
sake; who visit one another for My sake and who expend themselves freely on one
another for My sake’.”
There have been transmitted many prophetic traditions regarding the merits of
visiting brothers for the sake of Allah. Among them is what was related by Abu Nu`aym
in his al-Hilliya on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Visit one another for the sake of Allah. Indeed the one who visits someone for
the sake of Allah is escorted by seven thousand Angels.” It has been related by at-
Tabaraani in his al-Awsat on the authority of Abu Razeen al-`Aqili that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “O Abu Razeen, indeed when a Muslim visits his brother
Muslim, he is escorted by seventy thousand Angels who pray for him, saying: ‘O Allah
just as he has established a relationship for Your sake, make a relationship with him’.”
That is to say, befriend him and make him Your intimate acquaintance, Your close
associate and Your protected friend.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever visits an ill person, or calls upon his
brother for the sake of Allah, a caller calls out: ‘You have been cured, your passage has
been made pleasant and you have prepared a home for yourself in the Garden’.” It has
been related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Safwaan ibn `Asaakir that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Whoever visits his brother believer, actually plunges
into one of the meadows of the Garden until he returns to his home.”
It has been related by Imam Ahmad, Muslim and al-Bukhari in his al-Adab on the
authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Once a man
visited a brother of his in a distant village, then Allah assigned an Angel to him and met
him on his way, and said: ‘Where are you headed?’ He said: ‘I am visiting a brother of
mine in that village.’ The Angel said to him: ‘Does he have some favor for you from
which you can profit?’ He said: ‘No, it’s just that I love him for the sake of Allah.’ The
Angel then said: ‘I am a messenger of Allah to you announcing that Allah loves you just
as you have shown your love for him for His sake’.”
There are correct courtesies (adab) in visiting brothers. Among them is that the
one visiting must sit wherever the host (mudeef) invites him to sit, and he must guard his
eyes from looking at the host’s womenfolk (wa yahfadhu `aynayhi min hurmatihi). It has
been related by ad-Daylami in his Musnad’l-Firdaws on the authority of Ibn Umar that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “When one of you visits his brother,
he should then sit with him and not stand to leave without first asking his permission.”
Among the courtesies of the visitor (adab’z-zaa’ir) is that if he happens to be fasting a
superogatory fast (saa’iman taw`iyyan), he should break his fast (yaftur). It has been
related by ad-Daylami on the authority of Salman al-Farsi that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “There is no visitor fasting who visits his brother, and then as a
result breaks his fast, except that Allah ta`ala records that he fasted that day.” Among the
courtesies of the visitor (adab’z-zaa’ir) is that he must supplicate for his brother. Shaykh
Muhammad ibn `Anaan, may Allah be merciful to him once said: “It has reached us on
the authority of Imam Ahmad that when one of the early ancestors (salaf) used to gather
with one of their brothers, they would not depart except after reciting the Qur’anic
chapter: ‘By the time, surely mankind is at a lost…’; to the end of the chapter. It is thus
necessary to be assiduous in performing that.”
The meaning of his words: “…and the righteous”; is that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬used to command his Companions and Umma to visit the righteous among the living
Awliyya of Allah, and right acting scholars (`ulama’ `aamileen) in order to benefit from
their knowledge, gnosis of Allah, correct courtesies, character and spiritual states. He
ordered them to visit those who were deceased among them in order to gain blessings
from their baraka. Shaykh Abd’l-Haleem ibn Muslih, may Allah be merciful to him said:
“No one departs in order to visit a scholar or a righteous person in order to benefit from
their knowledge or learn from their correct courtesies, except that he returns with benefits
far above what he hoped for.” It has been related by ar-Raaf`iy on the authority of Buhz
ibn Hakeem on the authority of his father, on the authority of his grandfather, Mu`awiyya
ibn Jayda that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever sits facing the
scholars has actually sat facing me. Whoever visits the scholars has actually visited me.
Whoever sits with a scholar, has actually sat with me. Whoever sits with me, it is as
though he sat with my Lord.”
In visiting the righteous and the scholars there are correct courtesies. Among them
is what the author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him
said in his Diya’l-Qawaa`id: “It is that the one making the visitation that he discard any
sense of possessing knowledge; and in all affairs indicated to him he should defer to the
knowledge of the one he is visiting. He should consider that their knowledge is more
perfect and complete than his own. He should behave as if he is in need of them and their
knowledge, even when he is actually higher than them in the outward. Along with this is
that he should diminish his lower soul, and prepare himself for the acceptance of
everything which comes from him by listening attentively with his entire being. He
should manifest his need for everything that he possesses, whether it be insignificant or
momentous. This should be demonstrated sometimes by his asking and questioning him
and sometimes by his making hints and indirect references. When the waliy he is visiting
speaks words which are average and conventional, he should engage him and endeavor to
preserve what he says. When he speaks on the Divine realities and religious sciences, he
should make his soul present and attentive and avoid talking. If he must speak, then he
should do as little as possible in that regard. It is highly recommended for the one visiting
the waliy to seek for his supplication, even when the one seeking it is seemingly
outwardly better than the one from whom the supplication is being sought. This is
because the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said to Umar ibn al-Khataab, may Allah be
pleased with him, when he sought permission from him to make the lesser pilgrimage:
‘Do not forget us, O my brother in your supplications.’ And in another narration he said:
‘Include us O brother in your supplications’.”
The Knower of Allah, Shaykh Abd’l-Wahaab as-Sha`rani said in his al-`Uhuud’l-
Muhammadiyya: “It has reached us from the early community (salaf) that when they
would visit a scholar or a righteous person, they would first give some alms (sadaqa),
desiring from that that Allah ta`ala would blind them to ill fortunes of that person being
visited (ya`ameeyahum `an masaawi’iy dhalik ‘l-mazuur). As a result, they would never
depart from him without some benefit. Even when the person was not actually from the
scholars and the righteous, Allah ta`ala would cause wisdom to flow on their tongues due
to the sincerity of the visitor.”
Again the author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, my Allah be merciful to him
said in his Diya’l-Qawaa`id: “One of the righteous once saw the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
in his sleep, and he said to him: ‘O Messenger of Allah I do not want to lose this
encounter with you without having asked you about the most superior of actions?’ The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said to him: ‘The most superior of actions is your sitting with a
waliy from the Awliyya of Allah, to the extent that it takes to milk a sheep.’ The man then
said: ‘Alive or deceased O Messenger of Allah?’ He said: ‘Alive or deceased.’
Muhammad ibn Naasir said in his Ajwiba: ‘This refers to the least amount of time that it
is necessary for the visitor to stay in the presence of a waliy from among the righteous.
However if he increases in the time he stays with them it is better.’ Ahmad Zarruq said:
‘If mercy descends with the mentioning of the Awliyya, then what is your view of the
places in which they have gathered with their Lord after exiting this worldly abode? For
visiting them is highly recommended as long as these visitations are free of forbidden and
reprehensible deeds.’
It is necessary for the one visiting the righteous who are deceased, that he sits at
the head of the waliy facing his face, where his own back is to the qibla. He should then
say: ‘Greetings is to Allah, purification is for Allah, and excellent prayers are for Allah.
Peace upon you O Prophet, and the mercy of Allah and His baraka.’ He should repeat the
sending of salaam upon the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, three, or seven times. He should
then say: ‘Peace be upon us and upon the righteous servants of Allah. Peace be upon you
O waliy of Allah O master so-and-so, and the mercy of Allah and His baraka. I bear
witness that there is no deity except Allah, the One without partner, and I bear witness
that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.’ When the visitor reaches this point in his
words, indeed the waliy will be sitting in his grave ready to take care of the needs of the
visitor. He should then recite what is easiest for him to recite from the Qur’an. He should
then send blessings upon the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and then ask that the reward of all
of this be given over to this waliy of Allah. He should then say: ‘O Allah by the truth of
those whom you gaze upon and Your anger is abated; by the truth of those who are
gathered around Your Throne, by the Awliyya wherever they are, in the east, west, north
or south, by the truth of our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and by the truth of this
waliy of Yours, fulfill my needs.’ He should then recite al-Faatiha three times. This is the
correct courtesy of visiting the deceased from among the righteous.”
Regarding this as well, is the merit of visiting the deceased among parents
(ziyaarat’l-maytat min’l-waalidayn). The Knower of Allah, Shaykh Shihab’d-Deen al-
Khufaaji said in his Naseem’r-Riyaad: “The entire objective of visiting is to be dutiful
and to show honor and respect; like visiting the grave of parents and those who have a
right to be honored and respected. For, indeed the deceased are to be respected and
honored just like the living. Thus, the objective in visiting is in order to be kind to the
deceased and show them mercy. This is also highly recommended (mustahab) based
upon what was transmitted from the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: ‘Indeed the deceased is
treated kindly when he is visited by someone who loved him in the abode of this world’.”
It has been related by Ibn `Adiy in his al-Kaamil on the authority of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq,
may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Whoever visits the graves of his two parents or one of them on Friday and recites the
Qur’anic chapter YaaSeen, he will be forgiven.”
It has been related by Muslim and others on the authority of Abu Hurayra that
once the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬visited the grave of his mother and wept, and all those
around him wept as well. He then said: “I asked permission of my Lord if I could ask for
forgiveness for her, but He did not give me permission. Then I sought permission to visit
her grave and He granted me permission. Therefore, visit the graves, for indeed it is a
reminder to you of death.” In another narration from Ahmad, he said: “Indeed I forbade
you to visit the graves, therefore visit them, for indeed in visiting the graves there is a
moral lesson.” This means that there is admonition from the reminder it brings of death
and what comes after it, as well as baraka that the visitor gains.
In the narration of the same prophetic tradition from Ibn Maja, he upon him be
blessings and peace said: “…for indeed visiting the graves is a part of having austerity in
this world and it reminds you of death.” Al-Haafidh al-Mundhari, may Allah me merciful
to him said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to forbid people visiting graves with a
general prohibition that included women and men. Then he gave permission for the men
to visit graves, and the prohibition remained with regard to women. It is said that this
allowance was a general license for both men and women alike. In this legal issue there
has been extensive debates and discussion among the scholars, and Allah knows best.”
Realize that the best grave which it is highly recommended to visit (some say it is
obligatory) is the tomb of our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. The author, Shaykh
Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him said in conclusion of his work
Diya’l-Hukaam: “It is necessary that every Muslim not let his years pass without making
the pilgrimage to the House of Allah nor visiting the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. Al-Fazaazi said: ‘For when the deen is incomplete, then there is no dunya.’ That is
to say, it is not complete without the hajj and visiting the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
when he finds the ability to do so.” He also said after a little: “In the al-Qawaneen it says:
‘It is necessary for the one performing hajj that he intends to visit al-Medina. He should
enter the mosque of the Prophet and pray his prayers in it. He should give the salaams to
the Prophet and to his two comrades, Abu Bakr and Umar. He should also seek the
intercession of the Prophet with Allah and pray between his grave and the minbar.’ He
then said: ‘Among those things which are necessary for him, is to intend to visit the grave
of Isma'il upon him be peace and his mother who are buried in the Hijr; the grave of
Adam, upon him be peace in the mountain of Abu Qubays, the cave which is mentioned
in the Qur'an in the mountain of Thawr, and the cave in the mountain of Hirra where the
Qur'an was first revealed. He should also visit the graves of those buried in Mecca and al-
Medina from among the Companions, the Tabi`een and the Imams.”
Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa: “Visiting the grave of the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is a Sunna from the sunnan of the Muslims, which is agreed upon
(majmuu` `alayhi). It is a spiritual merit highly sought after (wa fadeela marghuub
feehaa). The judge Abu Ali narrated to us, saying that Abu’l-Fadl ibn Khayruun narrated
to us, saying that al-Hassan ibn Ja`far narrated to us, saying that Abu’l-Hassan Ali ibn
Umar ad-Daraqutni narrated to us, saying that Qadi al-Mahaamili narrated to us, saying
that Muhammad ibn Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam narrated to us, saying that Musa ibn
Hilaal narrated to us on the authority of `Ubaydallah ibn Umar on the authority of Naafi`
on the authority of Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with them that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘Whoever visits my grave, then my intercession is
obligatory for him.’ It has been related on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘Whoever visits me in al-Medina, while
reckoning his own soul, is considered my neighbor; and I will be an intercession for him
on the Day of Judgment.’ In another prophetic tradition he said: ‘Whoever visits me after
I die, it will be as if he visited me when I was alive.’ Malik, however considered it
reprehensible to say: ‘We visited the grave of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.’
There is considerable dispute regarding the meaning of what Malik said. It is said
that what is reprehensible is the cognomen ‘visit’ based upon his saying ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬: ‘Allah curses the women who visit graves.’ However, what refutes that is his
saying: ‘I once forbade you from visiting the graves, therefore visit them’; and his words:
‘Whoever visits my grave…’, where he utilizes the expression ‘visit’ unrestrictedly. Or
he considered it reprehensible to say it due to what is said that the one visiting is naturally
better than the one being visited. However, there is nothing to this opinion, since not
every person who visits another share that description and it cannot be considered a
general legal principle. Abu `Imran, may Allah be merciful to him said: ‘What Malik
considered reprehensible in this is saying: ‘the circumambulation of visitation’ (tawaaf’z-
ziyaara) and ‘we visited the grave of the Prophet, ‫’صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, due to the fact that
people use these same expressions to refer to visiting one another. Thus, what he
considered reprehensible was equating the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with other people
using that particular expression. What is preferable to say in this regard is: ‘We gave the
greetings to the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.’ Another consideration is that visitation is
lawful between people, and it is obligatory to drive the caravans to his grave; where the
meaning of ‘obligation’ (wujuub) here is recommendation (nadab), desirable (targheeb)
and assurance (ta’keed), and not the incumbent obligation (wa laa wujuub fard).’ The
most preponderant opinion with me is that the expression is prohibited and that Malik
considered it reprehensible due to its connection to the grave of the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. For, if the person had said: ‘I visited the Prophet’; then Malik would not have
considered his words reprehensible, based on the words of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫هللا عليه وسلم‬: ‘O Allah do not make my grave into an idol that will be worshipped after
me. For, Allah is severe in His anger against a people who take the graves of their
prophets as masaajid.’ Thus, what angered him is attributing that expression to the actual
grave and also resembling those described in the above prophetic tradition, in order to
prevent the pretext (qat`an li’d-dharee`a) and to cut off the door (hasman li’l-baab) from
this happening; and Allah knows best’.”
Here ends what Qadi `Iyad said in his as-Shifa, and in it is refutation against the
devils among men in these times in our blessed country of Mali who have prevented the
people of Timbuktu from visiting the graves of the righteous and who have destroyed the
tombs of our master, the Shaykh’l-Islam the judge, the jurist Abu’l-Barakaat Mahmud ibn
Umar ibn Muhammad ‘Aqit, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him, and the tomb of the
our master, the bountiful sage, the perfect qutb, the shareef Yahya at-Tadaalisi, may
Allah ta`ala be pleased with him. It says explicitly in the Tarikh’s-Sudan: “Qadi
Mahmud's son, the ascetic waliy, the jurist and preacher Abu Zayd Abd 'r-Rahman ibn 'l-
faqih Mahmud said: ‘It has been instituted as a daily duty upon the people of the region
of Timbuktu to visit the tomb of Sidi Yahya to take from his baraka. Even if the person is
three days travel from it.”
O Allah just as they destroyed the gardens of Your Awliyya in Timbuktu, destroy
their hopes and objectives. O Allah expel them from the city of Timbuktu and from all
the surrounding lands. O Allah breakup their unity and diminish their measure. O Allah
place a circle around them and send punishment upon them. O Allah expel them from the
realm of Your forbearance, spoil any chance of respite for them, manacle their hands,
lock up their hearts and do not let them realize their hopes and objectives. O Allah rend
them a part with every kind of disruption. O Allah give victory to the People of Allah in
Timbuktu with a mighty victory as You gave victory to Your Awliyya, Your prophets and
Your messengers. O Allah give victory to the people of Timbuktu with the victory You
give to those You love against Your enemies. O Allah do not let the enemies get a firm
footing and do not give them authority over the people of Timbuktu due to their sins. O
Allah by means of the assaulting power of Your vanquishing, by means of the speed of
Your response and the succor of Your help, and by means of Your protection which You
give to those who take shelter with Your Qur’anic verses, I ask You O All Hearing, O
Near, O Answerer, O Prompt in answering, O Avenger, O Severe in destroying, O
Anguished in seizing, O One who is not impotent in destroying oppressors or who is not
dismayed in obliterating insurgents from the fractured kingdoms; that You assist and give
victory to the people of Timbuktu against the belligerent disobedient warmongers among
the Muslims. Give them victory and assistance O Allah against the disbelieving armies of
the colonialist from Europe and America; by the sanctity of the burial place of our master
the Shaykh’l-Islam the judge Mahmud ibn Umar ibn Muhammad ‘Aqit; by the sanctity of
the earthly garden of our master the shareef Yahya at-Tadaalisi, by the sanctity of all of
Your Awliyya buried in the precincts of the Sankore masjid, the masjid of our master
Yahya at-Tadaalisi, and the Jenkebere` masjid; and by the sanctity of our master
Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Amen
Included in the issue of visitation (az-ziyaara) is visiting the people of spiritual
bounty from among the governors of the Muslims, with the condition that they are
righteous; to give them sincere counsel, and to assist them in establishing the general
welfare of the Muslims. It is also lawful to visit the virtuous among the governors of the
Muslims in order to have one’s needs fulfilled. Shaykh Abu’s-Su`ud al-Jaarihi said:
“When one of you visits a governor (amir), you should request supplication from him.
For, indeed Allah ta`ala is unwilling to turn away the supplication requested from the
notables in this temporal world. Therefore, my brother, let nothing preempt you from
asking for their supplication.” He also said: “Indeed the request of a governor from his
Lord regarding a worldly matter is more apt to be answered than the supplication of a
virtuous person for the same worldly matter. This is because the concern of a governor in
matters of this world is ensured, unlike that of a virtuous person.” Indeed, with the
governors of the Muslims is an accepted and guaranteed supplication (du`a mustajaaba)
with Allah `izza wa jalla with regard to the worldly affairs of their subjects and society.
Understand this and undertake it!
The meaning of his words: “…and to honor and respect the visitor”; is that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded his Companions and Umma to respect every visitor
and guest by showing them a cheerful face, pleasant speech, providing meals, and
behaving with every variety of virtuous behavior; as it was explicitly stated in a prophetic
tradition related by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Salman al-Farsi that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The right of the one being visited is to respect and honor
the visitor.” In the narration of Ibn Maja on the authority of Anas that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whenever a visitor comes to you, then honor and respect
him.” It has been related by ad-Daylami in his Musnad’l-Firdaws on the authority of
Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The visitor of his
Muslim brother gets a greater reward than the one being visited.” Shaykh Abd’l-Wahaab
as-Sha`raani once said: “Whenever someone visited my master Muhammad ibn `Anaan
he would not allow them to depart until after presenting them with a meal. If he had no
food to give them, he would present them with water to drink. He would say: ‘You
should try and revive this Sunna because by means of it hearts are made affectionate, the
rites of the way of life are strengthened and the hearts are fortified one with another’.”
I say: a widespread destructive quality which has become prevalent in these times
of ours which people have contrived in the lands of Islam is the complete neglect of
honoring the guest. Rather, people view guests as if they were a liability and an
inconvenience. For, honoring and showing respect to the guest is among the most
superior rites of the religion, and is one of the causative factors for the descent of good
upon the hosts, the removal of his sins, and the increase in his wealth. It has been related
by Abu’s-Shaykh on the authority of Abu‘d-Darda’ that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “The guest comes with wealth and departs with the sins of the people. By
means of him their sins are wiped away.” In a narration on the authority of Abu Qursaafa:
“When Allah desires good for a people, He gives to them a gift of a visitor, who is the
cause for wealth descending upon them, and when he departs, Allah forgives the people
of that household.” When people neglect to honor and respect a guest in their home, and
they harm him in some way, then only constriction of wealth and increase in sin will
descend upon them. When the guest departs all the good of the hosts departs with him
and there then descends upon the people of that household tribulation and affliction;
especially if the host invites him to his place, agrees in some way to help him, and then
abandons him leaving him in narrow circumstances; as we have witnessed with our own
eyes in these times.
 This blameworthy treatment of the guest is a clear sign that Allah ta`ala only
desires harm for the people of that household. Moreover, the guest has an assured and
accepted supplication with Allah ta`ala against that host, even after a long time has
passed. We seek refuge with Allah. The poet, Jarir al-Ma`ariyyu once said:
“Honor your guest and beware of causing him any danger
During evil, even your closest friend cannot be expected to be reliable
The eyes of the people are sleep on their own treasures
While the eyes of those who seek to harm them do not sleep.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He commanded the people”; i.e. his
Companions and his Umma with a command that was legally obligatory according to the
necessities of the divine law (bi ‘amrin waajibin laazimin shar`in) “…to seek proper
permission when entering homes and to act in that with proper courtesy.” That is to
say, that he ordered them to seek permission from the owner of a home in order to enter
it. The expression ‘’ist’idhaan’ (seeking permission to enter) is from the verb
‘ast’adhana’ (to ask consent for something) which means ‘abaaha’ (to ask for allowance
to do something). Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded his
Companions and Umma to always seek permission to enter someone’s home, as a way of
teaching them correct courtesy. He did this following the words of Allah ta`ala: “O you
who believe, do not enter homes which are not your own without first announcing your
presence and giving the greetings of peace to its people. That is best for you so that you
may be mindful.”
The majority of the scholars of the early community (salaf), such as Ibn Abass,
‘Ikrama, ‘Amr ibn Sa`d at-Thaqafi and others held the view that inclusive in the meaning
of His words: ‘without first announcing your presence’ is your seeking permission. Abu
Ayyub al-Ansari said: “The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him said:
‘Announcing your presence means that a person should first speaks out with tasbeeha,
takbeera, tahmeeda and clearings his throat; then he should seek permission to enter from
the people of the household’.” In addition there are the words of Allah ta`ala: “O you who
believe, let those from among you whom your right hands possess and those who have not
yet reached puberty to first seek your permission at three designated times before
entering upon you: before the dawn prayer; at the time you discard your clothing during
the noon heat; and after the evening prayer. These are the three times of privacy for you.
There is no offense on you or them outside of these times, when some of you make your
rounds attending upon others”; and His words: “When your children reach the age of
puberty, they should also seek permission to enter upon you, just as those before them
did.” The meaning of His words: “they should also seek permission to enter upon you,
just as those before them did”; is that they should always ask permission to enter on you
during the three cited times, just as the older children of a man and the mature among his
close relatives have to ask permission.
It has been related by Ibn al-Mundhir, Ibn Abi Hatim and al-Bayhaqi in his as-
Sunnan on the authority of Ibn Abass who said regarding His words: ‘let those from
among you whom your right hands possess and those who have not yet reached puberty
to first seek your permission’: “When a man is alone with his wife after the evening
prayer, then neither his servant or child should enter upon him without permission until
he has prayed the early morning prayer. It is the same when he is alone with his wife
during the noon heat. They have a license to enter upon him without permission at times
between these. This is based upon His words: ‘There is no offense on you or them outside
of these times’ As for those who have reached the age of puberty, under all circumstances
they should not enter upon a man and his wife except with their permission.; based upon
His words: ‘When your children reach the age of puberty, they should also seek
permission to enter upon you, just as those before them did’.”
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬further established the obligation of
seeking permission to enter (wujuub ‘l-‘isti’dhaan) by his words as related in the Saheeh
of al-Bukhari on the authority of Sahl ibn Sa`d who said: “A man once peeped into one of
the rooms of the Prophet, ‫ ;صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and the Prophet had a comb with which he was
scratching his head. He said: ‘Had I known you were peeping, I would have used this to
poke your eyes. Seeking permission was established in order to guard the sight’.” In a
narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Sa`d ibn `Ubaada: “A man once came and
stood at the door of the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬seeking permission at the front of the
door. The Prophet, then said: ‘This is what is incumbent from you, for indeed seeking
permission to enter was established to protect the vision’.” That is to say, in order to
guard the eyes from seeing the womenfolk and privacy of the homes of the people. It has
been related by Abu Dawud with a strong chain of authority from Ibn Abass who said:
“In the past the people did not have screens covering the doors of their homes. Then
Allah ordered the seeking of permission to enter homes.” Ibn Abd’l-Barr said: “I assume
that they sufficed with knocking on the doors in order to seek permission.” In a prophetic
tradition from Abdallah ibn Bisr who said: “Whenever the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬used to come to door of people he would not stand directly facing the door, but
he would either stand at its right or left pillar. This was because doors at that time did not
have screens coverings them.”
In the ar-Risaala of Ibn Abi Zayd it says regarding seeking permission to enter:
“Seeking permission to enter homes is an obligation (al-‘isti’dhaan waajibun). You
should not enter a home in which there is someone until you have first sought permission
three times. If you are giving permission, then enter; if not then return.” Shehu Uthman
ibn Fuduye` said in his Mir’at’t-Tulaab: “The consensus is unanimous (qad in`aqada al-
‘ijmaa`) that whoever neglects seeking permission to enter homes, is disobedient to Allah
and His messenger. We seek refuge with Allah.” The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
ordered his Companions and Umma to seek permission before entering homes with
correct courtesy as a legally binding obligation according to the necessities of the divine
law; in order to teach the people how to guard their sight and how to protect the
inviolable privacy of one another. Allah ta`ala says: “There has come to you a light from
Allah and a Clear Book, by which Allah guides those who follow His pleasure, the Ways
of peace, and to take them out of the darkness into the Light by His permission, and to
guide them to the Straight Path.”
Indeed, the Messenger of Allah is the light which came from Allah in order to
take us out of the darkness into the light, by commanding us regarding the social behavior
of seeking permission, hosting the guest, showing filial kindness towards neighbors, and
other than these from elevated social courtesies and praiseworthy character. Sultan
Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-
Shareefa:
“He is the sun of prophetic guidance that is complete in its wonders
 And the messengers came like a second hemistiche in their rank to him
And when he came, he took precedence in the procession of messengership
And all the miraculous Signs which the noble messengers came with
Indeed, are interconnected with them originating from his primordial light.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way etof right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people”;
i.e., he would order his Companions and his Umma with a command that was highly
recommended not a command of obligation (‘amran mustahban laa waajiban); “…to be
cheerful in demeanor…” This means that he would exhort them to maintain a happy
bearing, to be joyful, to be pleasing and to be agreeable with one another when meeting.
The author of the Taaj’l-`Uruus said: “A man is cheerful in his demeanor when he is
optimistic and outgoing and expansive in his deportment with others.” It has been related
by al-Bayhaqi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬once said: “Indeed Allah loves the person who is simple/easy going (sahl) and stress-
free (taleeq).” That is to say, that Allah ta`ala loves a person who is giving with his hands
and generous in his demeanor and He loves a person who is mellow and tender in his
character.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra as well, that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “None of you should disparage giving
anything of good; and when it cannot be found, he should at least meet his brother with a
happy demeanor.” The expression ‘wajh talaq’ (happy demeanor) is the opposite of
moroseness and despondency (`ubuus); and is a kind of behavior which comprises
happiness and genuine joy. It is the causative factor for genuine joy entering the hearts of
others. There is no doubt that communicating joy to the heart of a Muslim is an excellent
deed as we previously cited in the prophetic tradition of at-Tabaraani on the authority of
Ibn Abass: “The most beloved of actions to Allah, after the performance of the
obligations is causing genuine joy to enter the life of a Muslim.”
Thus, meeting or encountering a Muslim with a cheerful demeanor is among the
traits of true belief (shu`b’l-imaan) as it was related in a prophetic narration: “The most
superior form of belief is to speak to your brother, while you are smiling and easy going.”
That is to say, that the highest level of faith is to speak with your brother with an
optimistic and out-going demeanor. Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with
him once said: “When two Muslims meet one another and are mindful to one another,
Allah ta`ala will forgive them for being the source of happiness to his companion.”
The meaning of his words: “…to speak with pleasant speech”; is that he, upon
him be peace used to command his Companions and Umma to speak leniently to every
human, friend and foe alike; even towards the sinful Muslim who is a renegade from his
religion. Allah ta`ala says: “It is by the mercy of Allah that you are lenient towards them,
for if you were harsh and hard hearted they would flee from around you.”
Shaykh Ali al-Khawaas, may Allah be merciful to him said: “A part of the
prerequisites of a person who invites people to Allah ta`ala is that they must not be harsh
and uncivil towards those who are sinful and renegade. On the contrary, it is incumbent
upon him to be lenient in speech and draw near to their hearts by showing excellence
towards them until they eventually incline to him. Once they have become inclined to
him, it is then that he is able to give them sincere advice.”
 It has been related by al-Bayhaqi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “The true believer is easy-going and
lenient, until it is thought that he is foolish as a result of his leniency.”
Indeed pleasant speech is among the specific qualities required of scholars and
governors; as Umar ibn al-Khataab once said as it was related by Abd’r-Razaaq ibn
Hammam in his al-Jaami`: “It is essential to only give this affair to a man that has four
qualities: [1] leniency without being weak; [2] severity without being brutal; [3] prudence
without being stingy and [4] openhandedness without being wasteful. For, if a single one
of these qualities is lacking, then it will spoil the remaining three.” His son, Abdallah ibn
Umar, may Allah be pleased with both of them said: “True virtue includes: being easy-
going, having a cheerful demeanor and a lenient tongue.” All of these qualities encourage
people to avoid rough and discourteous speech (kalaam’l-jaaf) and crude and indelicate
words (ghaleedh’l-qawl).
The meaning of his words: “…and to shake hands”; is that he, upon him be
peace used to command his Companions and Umma to shake hands (bi’l-musaafaha)
when meeting one another, in order to spread affection among them and in order to
remove rancor and enmity from between them. It has been related by Ibn `Asaakir on the
authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Give
gifts to one another. Show affection for one another. Shake hands with one another; and
this will remove rancor from between you.” In another narration on the authority of
Abdallah ibn Umar: “Shake hands with one another, for indeed the shaking of hands
removes grudges. Give gifts to one another, for indeed the giving of gifts removes rancor
(al-ghilla).”
The custom of shaking hands when meeting is a part of the complete greetings of
Muslims; and it is a confirmed Sunna about which there is unanimous agreement. In this
regard, the shaking of hands is superior to kissing, embracing, hugging and any other
custom of greetings. It has been related by ad-Daylami in his Musnad’l-Firdaws on the
authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The
kissing of the Muslim of his fellow brother, is his shaking hands.” This means that
shaking hands with Muslims when meeting one another is equivalent to what kissing is
with non-Muslims.
In another narration which explicitly explains this meaning on the authority of al-
Hassan ibn Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with both of them, who said: “The
kissing of the hand of a fellow Muslim is shaking his hand.” As for the merits of shaking
hands, I previously cited in a prophetic narration related by Ibn Bilal in his Mukaarim’l-
Akhlaaq on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Indeed a part of the noble character of the Prophets, the champions of truth,
the martyrs and the righteous is having a happy demeanor when visiting one another;
shaking hands and being welcoming when meeting one another.”
Thus, it is highly recommended, as I cited previously, that when meeting one
another to shake hands, praise Allah ta`ala, seek forgiveness for one another, make
supplication for one another, and to give sincere advice to one another. The Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered humanity to be cheerful in demeanor, to maintain pleasant speech and
to shake hands when meeting in order to perfect in them noble character; as he said:
“Indeed Allah sent me to perfect noble character.”
 The blood brother and spiritual guide of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`,
may Allah be merciful to both of them said in poem ad-Daaliyya about his attributes,
upon him be blessings and peace:
“How many straying in darkness have been guided by him?
For his illuminations, reside in the heart of every unifier.
No person has come with the likeness of his character,
Who can encompass the nobilities of Ahmad?
Who can enumerate the amount of his miraculous signs?
Like the grains of sands are the numbers of the miracles of Muhammad.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people”;
i.e. he would command his Companions and Umma with a command that was either
highly recommended (‘amran mustahiban) or a command that was obligatory (‘amran
waajiban), based upon the differences among the early community regarding this (li
ikhtilaaf ‘s-salaf feehi); “…to seek righteous companions…” This means that he upon
him be peace, used to order them to seek out a righteous friend; for a righteous
companion is a companion known for goodness, dutifulness, noble character, scrupulous
piety, knowledge and correct courtesy; as Allah ta`ala says: “These are with those whom
Allah has favored from among the Prophets, the champions of truth, the martyrs and the
righteous. These are excellent friends.” This means that each of these people are the best
of companions or intimate friends.
Imam Qurtubi said in his exegesis that a companion is called a friend due to the
kind treatment he renders in his companionship to him. For, kind treatment means being
lenient and forbearing. Thus, the meaning of the above cited verse is that a person is with
the one he loves; he will be gathered with his beloved; and is indulgent regarding his
desires and wants. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered his Companions and Umma to
seek out righteous associates because the person with whom one sits (jalees) has an
influencing effect (mu’athira) upon either the virtuous state or sinful state of his intimate
friend.
The meaning of his words: “…and to avoid evil companions”; is that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to order his Companions and Umma to stay away from evil
companions (al-‘ibti`aadu `an saahib’s-suu’). This refers to the person whose close
association causes sins to be attached to one. The Messenger of Allah, upon him be
blessings and peace said: “Indeed a person is judged by his intimate friend. Therefore a
person should look carefully at who he befriends.” This means that a person is known by
his intimate friend. If you desire to know a person in truth then you must examine who
are his close friends, intimate associates and companions. For, then you will come to
realize his true reality in truth. Adiy ibn Zayd once said in poetic verse:
“Do not inquire about a person, but look carefully at his close mate
For indeed the close mate naturally imitates the one he is attached to.”
It has been related in another prophetic narration: “A man is upon the religion of
his intimate friend. Therefore, each of you should examine closely who he takes as a
friend.” This means that a human being is judged based upon the customs, path and
personal behavior of his close associate. Therefore, a person should closely regard and be
carefully attentive about the company he chooses to keep. This is because association
(mukhaala) by definition includes fellowship, fraternity and companionship. It has been
related by Muslim on the authority of Abu Musa al-Ash`ari that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Indeed the similitude of the righteous companion and the evil
companion is like the bearer of musk perfume and the one who blows in iron bellows.
With the bearer of musk, he will either give you some, or you will purchase some from
him, or at the very least you will get from him a pleasant fragrance. With the one who
blows in iron bellows, he will either scorch your clothing or at the very least, you will get
from him a foul smell.” This means that the righteous companion brings advantage by
sitting in his company, and the evil companion brings corruption by sitting in his
company.
In the narration of al-Bukhari, he upon him be peace said: “The similitude of the
righteous companion and the evil companion is like the bearer of musk and the carrier of
iron bellows. The bearer of musk will in no way deprive you. Either you will purchase
from him, or at the very least you will attain his fragrance. But the carrier of iron bellows
will either burn your body, scorch your clothing or at the very least, you will attain a foul
odor.” Ibn Hajr said in his al-Fath: “In this prophetic tradition is the prohibition of sitting
in the company of anyone whose company causes you harm either in the religion or the
worldly life.”
It has been related on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib, that he once wrote a letter
to his son, al-Hassan in which he said: “A part of the best portion of a person is his
having a righteous close mate (qareen saalih). Therefore, take the people of goodness as
close mates and you will be among them; and make a clear distinction between you and
the people of evil and you will be distinguished from them.” The knower of Allah,
Shaykh Abd’l-Wahaab as-Sha`raani said in his al-`Uhuud’l-Muhammadiyya: “Being in
solitude (wahda) for an entire day is better than sitting in the company of people; except
when keeping company earmarks for you a path to the Divine Law. Therefore, brother
search out the virtuous and sit in their company. If you are unable to find them, then sit
by yourself.”
It has been related by al-Haakim and al-Bayhaqi that Abu Dharr once said:
“Being in solitude is better than having an evil companion. A virtuous companion is
better than being in solitude. The transmission of goodness is better than being silent.
Silence is better than the transmission of evil.” Umar ibn al-Khataab once said: “Do not
keep company with one who is immoral (faajir) or he will teach you his immorality; and
never expose your secret to him. Take mutual counsel with those who fear Allah `izza wa
jalla.” A part of the excellence of having a righteous companion is that he keeps the
secret of his associates. It is for this reason that the author, may Allah be merciful to him
connected the affair of close associates with what is to follow.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people”;
i.e. he would command his Companions and Umma with a command that was either
highly recommended (‘amran mustahiban) or a command that was obligatory (‘amran
waajiban), based upon the differences among the early community regarding this (li
ikhtilaaf ‘s-salaf feehi) “…to conceal secrets”; that is to say, the preserving of secrets on
behalf of its owner and not exposing it to others. The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
ordered humanity to do this following the words of Allah ta`ala related on the tongue of
Ya`qub, upon him be peace: “O my son, do not relate your dream vision to your brothers,
or they will plot a plot against you, indeed Satan is an avowed enemy of humanity.” It has
been related by al-`Aqili ibn `Adiy and others on the authority of Mu`adh ibn Jabal, Umar
ibn al-Khataab and Ali ibn Abi Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once
said: “Seek assistance in accomplishing your needs through concealment; for indeed,
every possessor of a blessing is envied.” The sage of Allah, Sahl ibn Abdallah, may Allah
ta`ala be merciful to him once said: “The foundation of intelligence is silence. The branch
of intelligence is well being. The inward of intelligence is concealing secrets; and its
outward is following the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.”
Imam al-Ghazali said in his al-Ihya regarding exposing secrets (‘ifshaa’s-sirr): “It
is a matter that is prohibited because of what is in it of causing harm and being reckless
regarding the rights of acquaintances and close friends. The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once
said: ‘When a man utters secretive words to someone and then he spreads it; then these
words are a confidential trust.’ He, upon him be peace also said unrestrictedly: ‘The
conversations between you are a confidential trust.’
Al-Hassan once said: ‘A part of treachery is relating the secret of your brother.’ It
was related that once Mu`awiyya, may Allah be pleased with him, secretly related to al-
Walid ibn `Utba a report. Then al-Walid said to his father: ‘O my father, the Amir’l-
Mu’mineen secretly related an account to me. What is your view regarding the fact that
he has kept from you what he has divulged to others?’ `Utba said: ‘Do not relate it to me,
for whoever conceals his secret, it will be excellence for him; and whoever reveals it,
then it will be excellence held against him.’ Al-Walid then said: ‘O my father, even when
this account can come between a man and his son?’ `Utba said: ‘No! By Allah! My son,
but I desire that you not humiliate your own tongue with the utterances of secrets!’ Al-
Walid then said: ‘I then went back to Mu`awiyya and informed him about that, and he
said to me: ‘O Walid, your father has freed you from the enslavement of errors; for
revealing secrets is treachery’.”
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye `said: “Realize that
concealing secrets is among the praiseworthy traits for all creatures. It is a part of the
essential prerequisites in the rights of governments and it is among the incumbent
obligations for chief ministers, government assemblies and adherents.” He also said:
“Realize that those who can be entrusted with secrets are more severe and harder to find
than those who can be entrusted with wealth, since protecting wealth is far easier than
concealing secrets. Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him and ennoble his
face once said: ‘Your secret is your captive as long as you do not utter it. For, once you
utter it, then you become its captive.’ The mujaddid, Umar ibn Abd’l-`Aziz once said:
‘Hearts are safety boxes, lips are their locks and tongues are their keys. Therefore let
every person protect the keys of his secrets’.” All of this was transmitted in an abridged
form from the Bayaan Wujuub’l-Hijra `Ala’l-`Ibad of Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may
Allah ta`ala be pleased with him.
Also a part of concealing secrets is having an preference for obscurity (raghbatu
fee al-khumuul), disliking being prominent among people (kiraahiyyat ‘d-dhuhuur li’n-
naas), hiding one’s spiritual bounties from them (khifaa’l-fadaa’il), and obscuring one’s
sagehood (wilaaya) , gnosis (ma`aarif) and Divine realities (haqaa’iq) except from those
deserving of them. The knower of Allah, Shaykh Ahmad ibn `Ajiba said in his ‘Iqaadh’l-
Himmam: “Obscurity is the falling of one’s rank with people and the concealing of the
secrets of saintliness. Whenever one’s rank falls with people and the claim of saintliness
is negated, then this is the essence of obscurity.” The knower of Allah, Shaykh Abd’l-
Qaadir ibn Mustafa said in his Salwat’l-Ikhwaan: “Indeed the majority of the masters of
this affair, i.e. the affair of saintliness, build their foundation on secrecy and the
concealing of trust; until Allah manifest them by His command. For, then they become
manifest by the Truth, for the Truth and speak by means of the Truth regarding the
Truth.” Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ennoble his face once said in verse:
“If you are entrusted with secrets, then conceal them
And conceal the faults of your brother when they appear
Do not be worried over the vissitudes of time, for indeed
Men cause the vissitudes of time to flee in fright
And obey your father in everything that he advises
Indeed, the one who obeys his father will never be debilitated.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He prohibited people from sitting in
the roads.” That is to say, that he, upon him be peace forbade the people from sitting in
the street without fulfilling its prerequisites. The expressions ‘turuqaat’ and ‘turuq’ are
both plural for ‘tareeqa’. Its etymology is from the verb ‘taraqa’ (to tread/beat) and
means to pace (saara) and to walk (mashaa); like when you say: ‘taraqtu ‘t-tareeq’ (I
tread the road). He prohibited them from this in order to protect their sight from gazing at
strange women, looking at worldly people with exaltation or envy, or looking at the
common people with disdain. He prohibited them from this in order to protect their
tongues and ears from lying, backbiting, slander, calumny, making mockery and
abandoning mutual greetings. He prohibited them from this in order to protect their hearts
from being engrossed in anything besides the rights of Allah. His prohibiting them from
sitting in the roads was from the excellence of his character because a part of excellent
character is giving sincere advice to humanity and restraining them from all kinds harm.
Allah ta`ala says: “There has come to you a messenger from yourselves, dear to
him is what afflicts you, deeply concerned for you.” This means that what is dear to him
is your suffering hardships and entering the Hell Fires; and he is deeply concerned that
you truly believe and enter the Garden. Allah ta`ala says: “…and he recites to them His
signs, purifies them and teaches them.” Allah ta`ala says: “…so that he can extract those
who believe and do good deeds from the darkness into the Light.”
The meaning of his words: “…except out of necessity”; is that he upon him be
peace prohibited the people from sitting in the roads except out of a necessity established
by the shari`a, or except after sound prerequisites, or except with pleasing and acceptable
courtesy. The meaning of his words: “…and then he required them to give the public
roads its due diligence”; is that if it was a necessity to sit in the roads because of some
need, and if this could not be avoided; then they should perform the rights that are due the
roads: “…such as…”; i.e. among the rights of sitting in the roads is: “…lowering the
gaze.” Here, is an indication of being safe from encountering or being exposed to the
temptations of the eyes such as gazing at women, worldly people and other than these.
Among the rights of sitting in the roads is: “…preventing harm”, through backbiting;
having an evil opinion of others; showing contempt for those passing on the road; making
the road too congested for those passing; showing gratuitous awe of those passing or
fearing them; precluding women and other than them from going out on the roads to
fulfill their responsibilities due to those sitting in the roads ; sitting close to the entrances
of the homes of people resulting in some inconvenience for them or being exposed to
anything of the conditions of the people which they may dislike.
Among the rights of sitting in the roads is: “…returning the greetings of peace”;
in order to show proper respect for those passing and in order to extend the greetings of
peace. The author cited ‘returning the greeting of peace’ to indicate that it is a Sunna for
those passing to first give the greetings of peace to those sitting. Among the rights of
sitting in the roads is: “…commanding the good and forbidding evil”; by behaving in
accordance with everything which has been ordained by the shari`a and ordering the
people to do the same; and by avoiding everything not ordained by the shari`a and
forbidding the people from the same.
Among the rights of sitting in the roads is: “…guiding those who are lost”;
which means giving proper direction to those who have lost their way, giving proper
supervision to the simple-minded and helping to find lost property. Among the rights of
sitting in the roads is: “…giving succor to those aggrieved”; which means giving
assistance to those who have grievances, misfortunes, and dire needs by extending to
them kind words, good deeds or both: “…and…”; finally among the rights of sitting in
the roads is: “…speaking with benevolent speech”; which means having pleasant
speech when conversing with one another; void of backbiting, slander, lying, speech
which diminishes a person’s dignity, or other than these from blameworthy speech.
Included in this also, is their speaking to those passing, such as returning the greetings,
being kind in responding to people, directing others on the road, their guiding people for
their general welfare and the like.
It has been related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Muslim and Abu Dawud on the
authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Beware of
sitting in the roads.” The Companions said: “O Messenger of Allah, it is necessary that
we sit in the roads conversing with one another.” The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Well, if you insist on assembling, then give the road its rights.” They said:
“What are its rights?” He said: “Lowering the gaze, warding off harm, returning the
greetings of peace, commanding the good and forbidding indecency.”
In the narration of Muslim on the authority of Abu Talha who said: “We used to
sit in the open spaces in front of the houses conversing with one another, when once the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬came and said: ‘What is with you, that you are
sitting in the open roads? You should avoid sitting in the open roads.’ We then said:
‘Indeed our sitting causes no harm. We only sit reminding one another and conversing
with one another.’ He said: ‘If you cannot avoid it, then you should give the roads its
rights, such as lowering the gaze, returning the greetings and speaking with agreeable
speech’.” These two prophetic traditions give evidence that he, upon him be peace
disliked people sitting in the roads without a valid reason.
The Prophet, prohibited his Companions and his Umma from sitting in the open
roads without necessity and commanded them to give the open roads their rights by
behaving with praiseworthy character; because he was sent in order to guide those who
would follow the pleasure of Allah and in order to extract them out of the darkness into
the light. The author, the professor, may Allah be merciful to him said in praise of the
Prophet in his ad-Daaliyya poem:
“He is the time-honoured promise from Allah to Ibrahim the bosom friend
Muhammad, the most Beloved of the Lord of all the worlds
Refuge is taken by him, destruction averted, he is the source of generosity
The light of true guidance, beautiful, and noble of ancestry
The homeland of orphans and the oppressed; and their sheltering patron
The ocean of generosity, quenching the burning thirst of the thirsty.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He prohibited two people speaking
intimately excluding a third person…” This means that he upon him be blessings and
peace forbade two people from speaking confidentially and secretly in the presence of a
third person. The meaning of the expression ‘najwaa’ (secret conversation) is passing a
secret between two people. Allah ta`ala says: “There is no good in much of their secret
converse.” That is to say, there is no benefit in their speech which they hold secretly
amongst themselves.
The meaning of his words: “…due to the fact that this would cause the latter to
be dismayed.”; that is to say, speaking secretly two excluding a third will cause sadness
to enter the third person due to the secret counsel. This is because he assumes that the
speech is harmful to him; or that he is not deserving to to share in their speech. And other
than these from the whispering of Satan and the inner notions of the soul. Ibn Hajr said:
“He said ‘it will cause the other dismay he may misconstrue that the cause of the private
discourse is due to their evil opinion concerning him; or that they could be making some
intrigue against him.”
It has been related by Muslim on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “If there are three people, then two of
them should not speak secretly to one another excluding the third person.” In another
narration he upon him be peace added: “…until they intermix with other people, or this
will cause him to be dismayed.” In the narration of al-Bukhari he said: “If there are three
people, two of them should not speak privately excluding the third.” In another narration:
“If you are three people, then two of you should not speak secretly to one another
excluding the other, until you intermix mong other people, in order not to cause him
dismay.”
The meaning of his words: “In this regard, Ibn Umar…”; that is to say, that the
original narrator of these prophetic traditions was Abdallah ibn Umar ibn al-Khataab,
may Allah ta`ala be pleased with both of them, as it was cited in the narration by Sufyan
at-Thawri in his Jaami` on the authority of Abdallah ibn Dinar who said: “Whenever Ibn
Umar wanted to speak privately to someone and there were two people present he would
call a third over, and then speak to the one he wanted to privately.” In the narration of
Naafi`: “Whenever Ibn Umar wanted to speak privately to someone and there were three,
he would invite a fourth person.”
This is the meaning of his words: “…whenever there were two people with
him, and a third person came in order to seek council from him; he would say to the
two people: “Hold on for a bit.” This means that he would wait for a little until a fourth
person came. He did this following the command of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. The meaning of his words: “And when he was with one person who desired
advice he would seek out a second person in order to take council with the one who
entered upon him”; can be extracted from what was related on the authority of ‘Ash’hab
on the authority of Malik ibn Anas who said: “Three people should not speak
confidentially where one of them is excluded and neither should ten people do the same,
because it has been prohibited to leave one person out of a conversation.”
Indeed this is a part of excellent courtesy in order to prevent animosity and
alienation between people; as the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “…due to the
fact that this would cause the latter to be dismayed”; or as he said in another narration:
“…in order for him not to be troubled.” From these prophetic narrations we know that
causing sadness and emotional depression of a Muslim is an immense sin. Thus, the
Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace prohibited us from this out
of sympathy for us and as a mercy upon us. For, most dear to him are the things that
could harm us in this life and the hereafter. All of this was a part of the excellence of his
courtesy and comportment with people, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He, upon him be peace, used to
prohibit standing for a person who entered an assembly.” This means that he upon
him be blessings and peace forbade people in an assembly from standing out of
veneration or exaltation for a person who entered upon them. “He said…”; that is to say,
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said this in order to explain and elucidate the
prohibition of standing for one who entered; as it was related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud,
Ibn Maja and Ibn Jareer on the authority of Abu Amaama ibn Hunayf ibn Sahl al-Baahili
who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once came out to us leaning upon his
walking stick. We all then stood up for him, and he said: ‘Do not stand the way the
foreigners stand…” This means: do not stand out of veneration or exaltation for me, and
do not stand out of veneration for one another, as the foreigners from the people of Rome,
the Persians and others who stand in order to venerate and exalt their leaders.
The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “…in exalting one another”; is
that showing-off and exaltation were the original causes for foreigners standing for one
another. Consequently, the Messenger of Allah forbade this, but did not prohibit standing
in and of itself. There have been many prophetic traditions transmitted regarding the
lawfulness of standing for others out of respect to them. Among this genre is what was
related by al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri who said:
“The people of the Quraydha decided to surrender to the judgment of Sa`d ibn Mu`adh
regarding them. So the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬sent for him. When he came, the Prophet
said: ‘Stand for your leader’.” Among this type as well, is what was related by Abu
Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nisaai’ and others on the authority of A`isha who said: “I have
not seen anyone who most resembled the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in
demeanor, manner and conduct than Fatima. Whenever she would enter upon him, he
would stand for her, take her hand and kiss it, and then have her sit in his place.
Similarly, when he would enter upon her, she would stand for him, take his hand, kiss it
and have him sit in her place.”
Regarding this, as well, is what Imam an-Nawwawi said in his al-Adhkaar: “As
far as showing respect to those who enter by standing for them; we accept this to be
highly recommended, especially for those who possess apparent virtue, such as
knowledge, uprightness, nobility, saintliness or the like. Standing in this case is out of
dutifulness, honor and respect; and not showing-off and exaltation. It was in this manner
that the early and latter generations continued to adhere to.”
 Our spiritual master, Shaykh Abu’l-Hudaa Muhammad al-Ya`qoubi adheres to
this judgment in order to instruct the students and the new Muslim about the courtesies of
the mureeds and spiritual disciples with their shaykhs. However, Shaykh ibn al-Haaj said
in his al-Madkhal regarding the judgment behind the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordering
the people to stand for Sa`d ibn Mu`adh: “Indeed there is some dispute (an-nizaa`)
regarding the command to stand for another. In this particular case they were ordered to
stand in order to help him descend from his riding beast due to a sickness he was
suffering; as it has been related in some prophetic narrations”; such as the narration of
Ahmad on the authority of A`isha where the Prophet, explicitly said: “Stand up for your
leader, and help him dismount.” This prophetic tradition was further corroborated by
what at-Tuurabshati said: “The meaning of his words: ‘Stand up for your leader’
(quumuu ‘ilaa sayyidkum) is to stand in order to assist him to descend from his riding
beast. If he intended by his words exaltation or veneration (ta`dheeman), he would have
said: ‘Stand on behalf of your leader’ (quumuu li sayyidikum). That is to say, stand up in
order to exalt your leader (li ta`dheem sayyidikum), or stand up out of exaltation of your
leader (ta`dheeman li sayyidum).”
Ibn al-Haaj said regarding the possible reason for the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬regularly standing up for Fatima and her standing for him: “It is probable that his
standing for her was in order to have her sit in his place, out of respect for her; and not
from the viewpoint of the idolizing standing which is in dispute here; especially since the
narrow confinement of his home and the few cushions in it was well known. Thus,
perhaps what was meant that his sitting her in his place necessitated him standing.”
Further, Ibn Hajr explained that a man standing in order to assist an ill person from their
ride, to meet and greet the arrival of a traveler, to congratulate a person who has obtained
some blessing, or in order to make the assembly wider; is all lawful by unanimous
consensus.
It was on this legal perspective that the brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye`, may Allah be pleased with him adhered to as he said in his Bayaan ‘l-Bid`a ‘s-
Shaytaaniyya: “Among the innovations of giving greetings, is the standing which some of
us customarily make for others in the assemblies and gatherings when giving the
greetings. This is a reprehensible innovation (bid`at makruuha). It is said that it is a
lawful innovation. The correct view is that it is reprehensible. An example of this
reprehensible standing is standing for recitation of the scripture. This is also a
reprehensible innovation.”
Likewise, the author, Shaykh Abdullahi held to this legal view since he brought an
additional proof by citing a prophetic tradition related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, at-
Tirmidhi and Ibn Jareer on the authority of Abu Majliz who said: “A man once stood for
Mu`awiyya, may Allah be pleased with him.” Now, in this narration, there was no
mention of the name of the man who stood, but in the narration related by at-Tirmidhi he
said: “Mu`awiyya once came out to the people, and Abdallah ibn az-Zubayr and Ibn
Safwaan stood up when they saw him.”
However, in the narration of Abu Dawud and others it gives clear evidence that
Abdallah ibn az-Zubayr did not stand, but it was only Safwaan who stood. This was
further corroborated by Sufyaan at-Thawri who said: “It is unanimously agreed that Ibn
az-Zubayr did not stand.” The meaning of his words: “…and he then ordered him to sit
down”; is that Mu`awiyya ordered Ibn Safwaan to sit down. In another narration he said:
“You two have a seat”; which means that he ordered Ibn a-Zubayr and Ibn Safwaan to
have a seat. However the soundest view is the first: “…and then said: ‘I once heard the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬say: ‘Whoever likes…”; that is to say, whoever
desires that it be a requirement to stand for him in ranks by way of arrogance, solicitude,
vanity and the like from the forms of exaltation. In another narration he said: “Whoever is
gratified…”; meaning whoever delights and is made happy for: “…people to treat
him…”; i.e. formally establish for him or to typify a manner for him: “…such that they
stand for him…”, out of aggrandizement of him.
In another narration he said: “…that men stand for him…”; meaning that they
stop immobilized before him standing in order to exalt and venerate him, like their
saying: ‘He presented himself before him standing erect’; meaning he stood up erect and
formal before him. The meaning of his words: “…has then prepared”; is that he has
made ready: “…a place for himself in the Fire.” This means that his final destiny and
ultimate stake will be in the Fires of Hell. He used the imperative expression (al-‘amr) in
order to indicate choice (khiyar) as if to say: ‘Whoever enjoys that, then it is obligatory
for him to descend to a designated place in the Fire.’ This prophetic tradition is
unequivocal regarding the prohibition (tahreem) and reprehensibility (kiraahiyya) of
standing for others with the condition (bi shart) that it be done for showing-off (ar-
riyaa’) and exaltation (‘i`dhaam).
Imam al-`Ayni said in his commentary upon the Saheeh of al-Bukhari on the
authority Abu’l-Waleed ibn Rushd: “Standing for people is in four perspectives: first is
the standing which is unlawful (mah’dhuur) and it occurs to someone who arrogantly
desires others to stand for him being haughty over those standing. The second is the
standing which is reprehensible (makruuh) and occurs to someone who is not necessarily
arrogant and vainglorious over those standing, but it is feared that these blameworthy
traits will enter him as a result of that; along with the fact that it resembles domineering
people. The third is the standing which is permissible (jaa’iz) and occurs by way of
dutifulness (birr) and respect (‘ikraam) to someone who does not actually want people to
stand, and is safe from resembling domineering people. The fourth is the standing which
is highly recommended (manduub) and it is standing for someone out of joy of their
arrival from a journey to give them the greetings of peace, or standing for someone who
experienced some blessing and he stands to congratulate him for what he obtained, or
standing for someone who suffered some affliction and he stands in order to console him
because of it.” Imam al-Ghazali said: “Standing for the purpose of exaltation and
aggrandizement is reprehensible, while standing for the purpose of being dutiful and
showing respect is not reprehensible.”
Our beloved Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prevented people from standing for others in
order to impress upon them the need to avoid all behavior which induces arrogance,
conceit, showing-off and self-agrandizement. He also prohibited people from conversing
in such a manner as to exclude others present, in order not to offend and alienate people.
All of this is from his responsibility as a Prophet to bring humanity out of the darkness of
blameworthy destructive character into the light of noble, praiseworthy redemptive
character. The author, Shaykh Abdullahi Ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him, said
about the Messenger of Allah, in his poem ad-Daaliyya:
“What is in him of patience, exonerating others and mercy
And courage and cheerfulness for the sake of dignity
He is good humored, bashful and constantly smiling
With teeth like studded white pearls well strung
There is none more eloquent in Arabic, among Arabs
Or non-Arabs like the son of the father of eloquence, Ahmad.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬forbade…” That is to say, that he forbade his Companions and Umma with a ban
that was reprehensible (manhiyan makruuhan) or prohibited (tahreeman): “…a man
standing in order for another to sit in his place.” This means that he upon him be
blessings and peace prohibited his Companions and Umma from ordering a person sitting
in a place to stand so that he or another can sit in his place. Regarding this, the jurists
differ whether this prohibition was a forbidden ban (naahiya’t-tahreem) or a
reprehensible ban (naahiya’l-kiraaha). Ibn al-Mundhir transmitted from the majority of
the jurists that it was reprehensible; while Imam an-Nawwawi authoritatively asserted
that it was forbidden. The dispute regarding this judgment is dependent upon whether this
action is done during a normal assembly or gathering, or if it is done during the Friday
prayer before the sermon or during it.
For this reason the author followed this by citing the prophetic tradition saying:
“He said…”; that is to say, that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said as it was
related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Ibn Maja, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi and others on the
authorities of Salman al-Farsi, Abu Dharr, al-Arqam and Abdallah ibn `Amr, may Allah
ta`ala be pleased with them: “It is not lawful for a man to separate two men sitting
except with their permission.” The meaning of this prophetic tradition is that it is not
lawful for a man to ‘bring separation’ (yufarriqa – where the letter ‘raa’ is inflected with
shadda) between two people in an assembly or gathering, by sitting between them except
with their explicit permission; as some of the scholars interpolated it. The reason for this
is that it is likely that between the two people there is some brotherly love, affection,
abiding confidence and trust. Thus, separating them by sitting between them can be a
nuisance for them. Therefore, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬forbade that in
order to instruct his Companions and Umma regarding the most appropriate behavior to
have in their assemblies and gatherings, and in order to protect their honor and dignity.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He once said…”; as it was related by
Ahmad, al-Khateeb, and Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of `Amr ibn Shu`ayb on the
authority of his father, Shu`ayb ibn Muhammad on the authority of his grandfather, `Amr
ibn al-`Aas; as it was also related by Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Hurayra; as it
was also related by al-Haakim on the authority of Ibn Abass; and as it was related by
Abd’r-Razaaq ibn Hammam on the authority of Taawus and `Ikrama: “…to someone he
saw standing in the heat of the sun…” The author, may Allah be merciful to him did
not mention the name of the man standing in the sun due to the differences among the
jurists regarding him. However, in the narration of `Ikrama it was Abu ‘Isra’il. He said
that once the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬was giving a sermon and he saw a man standing.
He said: “What is the affair of that man?” They said: “That is Abu ‘Isra’il. He made a
solemn oath that he would stand all day in the sun fasting and not speak.” He said: “He
should sit down, find some shade, speak, but he should complete his fast.”
 In the narration of `Amr ibn al-`Aas he said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬was once giving a sermon and he saw a man standing in the sun and said: ‘What is
your affair?’ The man said: ‘I took a solemn oath that I would remain standing in the sun
until it set’.” He said: “That is not an oath. Indeed, an oath is what is made for the
countenance of Allah.”
In the narration of Taawus he said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once passed by
Abu ‘Isra’il who was standing in the sun and he asked about him. They said: ‘He took a
solemn oath to stand in the sun, fast and not speak.’ The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
‘Continue with your fast, remember Allah, and sit underneath the shade’.” In the
narration of Ibn al-Musayyib who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬passed by a man
standing in the sun and asked about him.” He said: “He is carrying out some pious
endeavor.” Then the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Remember Allah.”
In another narration the man standing in the sun was Abu Haazim, may Allah
ta`ala be pleased with him, as it was cited by al-Haakim and others on the authority of
Abu Haazim himself who said: “The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once saw me standing in
the sun and said: ‘Transfer to the shade. It is blessed’.” The meaning of this statement is:
Transfer from underneath the sun to the shade, for the shade is blessed. What is meant
here by ‘blessed’ is that it has much baraka, good and benefit as opposed to sitting in the
sun which is opposite that. This is because sitting directly underneath the sun has little
baraka, has much detriment, is extremely harmful to the body and has no benefit. It is for
this reason the author, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him transmitted the prophetic
narration that standing and sitting directly beneath the sun it is ‘the terrace of the devil’
(maq`ad’s-shaytaan).
Subsequently, the author, Shaykh Abdullahi Ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful
transmitted his words, upon him be peace: “Move to the shade, for indeed standing
underneath the sun is the terrace of the devil.” This means that sitting directly under
the sun is the place of repose of the devil, far from the mercy of Allah and His baraka. In
another narration he said: “None of you should sit between the sunlight and the shade
because it is the terrace of the devil”; because his terrace is a place far from the mercy of
Allah ta`ala. The focal point of the prohibition (mahal’n-nahyi) here is remaining
continuously underneath the sun and making this a customary practice where the sun has
adverse effects upon the body and the spirit. It is well known among the scholars of
medicine that remaining a long time underneath the sun provokes latent skin disease,
such as cancer and other infections beneath the skin.
There has been related countless traditions regarding the prohibition of sitting
underneath the sun and sitting between the sunlight and the shade. In a narration of al-
Haakim on the authority of Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Beware of sitting in the sun because it causes the deterioration of clothing, bad breath
and latten sicknesses.”
It has been related by Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “If one of you is directly in the sunlight, and
the shade shrinks from him, where part of his body is under the shade and part is under
the sun; he should stand and move.” This means that when one of you are underneath the
shadow as it was stated explicitly in some of the prophetic narrations. When the shade is
lifted or moves from him, and part of his body is in the shade and part in the sun; he
should transfer to the shade. This is recommended advice because sitting between the
shade and the sun is harmful to the body. When a person sits in that place, it will cause an
imbalance in his humors due to the opposing effects that the shade and sun has on his
body; as Imam al-Minowi explained.
It has been related in the Musnad of Ibn Abi Shayba on the authority of Abdallah
ibn Umar who said: “Sitting between the shade and the sun is the terrace of the devil”;
which means that his place of sitting is far from the mercy of Allah ta`ala, like the affair
of the devil who is far from His mercy. In the same collection on the authority of Qatada
who said: “The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prohibited a man sitting between the
shade and the sun.” In it as well on the authority of Abu Hurayra who said: “The edge of
the shade is the terrace of the devil.” In a narration on the authority of Sa`id ibn al-
Musayyib who said: “The edge of the shade is the repose of the devil.” In another
narration on the authority of `Ubayd ibn `Umayr who said: “The boundaries between the
shade and the sun are the terraces of the devil.” In a narration on the authority of `Ikrama
who said regarding a person sitting between the shade and the sun: “That is the terrace of
the devil.”
Abu Nu`aym and others narrated on the authority of Naafi` who said: “Umar ibn
al-Khataab used to say: ‘Do not stand long under the sun, for it will alter the color of the
skin, deteriorate the clothing and prompt latent diseases.” It has been related in the an-
Nihaaya on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with him that
once he saw a man sitting directly underneath the sun. He prohibited him sitting in that
place saying: “Rise from that place! It is an oven!” This means that it will alter the smell
of the mouth and dehydrate the natural humors, which is called the locus of halitosis.
Likewise it related in the an-Nihaaya on the authority of Ali, may Allah ennoble his face
as well, that he once saw a man under the sun and said: “Rise from that place! It is the
diminishing of the seminal fluid (majfara).” This means that it will cause the dissipation
of the conjugal appetites. It is clear in these narrations that the focal point of the
prohibition in sitting in the sun or sitting between the sun and the shade is the danger
which it causes to the body and the spirit, and Allah knows best.
In all the above, the Messenger of Allah ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬prevented his
Companions, his Umma and humanity all together from sitting underneath the sun or
sitting between the the direct sun and the shade, in order to protect them from what could
harm them in this world’s life and the Next. This is as Allah ta`ala says: “There has come
to you a Messenger from among yourselves who grieves over what hurts you, deeply
concerned for you and to the believers he is kind and merciful.” For, the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬came to us with astounding miracles and dazzling signs for our
faith and Hereafter. He came with sympathy, compassion and kindness for us in our
worldly affairs; and it is severly difficult to the Messenger of Allah ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬those
things that cause us harm from what we encounter of disbelief, polytheism, lack of
obedience and compliance with the commands of Allah and His prohibitions; and from
what is harmful of afflictions, sickness, tribulations and other than these which cause us
harm in our worldly life. For, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is deeply
concerned for us regarding our faith, and the correcting of all our affairs. This is because
he is with us and to us affectionate, sympathetic, kind and merciful.
The nephew of the author, Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said about the Prophet ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareef:
“The refuge of the fearful is the finality of his domain
 He is the destination whose enclosure is ample for the visitor
An unhealthy situation is not displaced except with the respite that he brings
How many have been cured of disease just by his touching;
And how many minds have been set free from the chains of insanity.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command the people…”;
that is to say, he upon him be peace used to order his Companions and Umma with an
obligatory injunction (‘amran waajiban): “…to show honor and respect to those who
possessed white hair…” This means that he would command them to show respect to
anyone who possessed grey or hoary hair (dhari’a), whether it was a little or a lot. The
etymology of the expression ‘shayba’ (white) is from the verb ‘shaaba’ (to whiten),
‘yasheebu’ (whitening) and ‘shayban’ (whitened). Thus, the expression ‘dhu’s-shayba’
(the possessor of white hair) is a figurative expression for advanced age; which means
that the person has entered into the margins of old age. Allah ta`ala says: “Allah is the
one who created you from weakness. Then He produced strength after this weakness.
Then He produced after this strength weakness and old age. He creates what He wills
and He is the Knowing the All Powerful.” Thus, the meaning of ‘shayba’ is being
advanced in age and reaching the prime of life (haram).
It has been related by Ibn an-Najaar on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Indeed Allah is ashamed from the
possessor of white hair, when he is one who is fixed in adherence to the Sunna, that he
would ask of Him and He not give him.” This is due to the honor and respect which Allah
ta`ala has for the possessor of white hair; then our respect for him should be more
appropriate.
The meaning of his words: “…the bearers of the Qur’an…”; is that he upon him
be peace used to command his Companions and Umma with an obligatory injunction to
show honor and respect to the one who has memorized the Qur’an and the sciences. The
etymology of the expression ‘haamil’ (the bearer/holder) is from the verb ‘hamala’ (to
carry/to hold); i.e. ‘he carried the thing’ (hamala ‘s-shay’), ‘he holds it’ (yahmaluhu),
‘supportively’ (hamlan), thus ‘it is conveyed’ (mahmuul). Allah ta`ala says: “And those
who disbelieve said to those who believe, follow our way, and we shall bear the burden
(wa’l-nahmil) of your errors. However, they will not be able bear (bi haamileena)
anything of their errors. They are nothing but liars.” It has been related in a prophetic
tradition: “We used to bear it upon our backs.” Thus, the bearer of the Qur’an and
knowledge is someone who has memorized the Qur’an and the sciences in their breasts
and acts in accordance with it.
The meaning of his words: “…and the equitable possessors of authority”; is
that he upon him be peace used to command his Companions and Umma with an
obligatory injunction to honor and respect the main leader who is equitable (al-‘imaam’l-
`aadhem’l-qist), the regional governor (al-‘amir), administrator (waaliy) and the
righteous among his civil servants, with the prerequisite that they are just and equitable
(muqsiteen). For, one honors Allah ta`ala by honoring them, because they are the
representatives of Allah in His earth as it was corroborated in the prophetic tradition:
“The ruler is the shade of Allah in His earth.”
There have been many prophetic traditions transmitted regarding the obligation of
honoring and respecting the above-mentioned people. By showing honor and respect o
them one exalts the majesty of Allah ta`ala as it was related by Abu Dawud on the
authority of Abu Musa al-‘Ash`ari that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said:
“A part of showing majesty to Allah is honoring the Muslim who possesses white hair,
the bearer of Qur’an who does not use it to beg nor is he discourteous; and showing
respect to the equitable possessor of authority.” In a narration of Ibn ad-Darees on the
authority of Abu Hurayra: “A part of exalting the majesty of Allah `izza wa jalla is
showing respect to the possessor of white hair in Islam. A part of exalting the majesty of
Allah is respecting the equitable leader.” In the narration of Abd’r-Razaaq on the
authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah: “A part of honoring the majesty of Allah is showing
honor to the Muslim who possesses white hair, the just leader, and the bearer of the
Qur’an who does not use it to beg nor is he discourteous.” It has been related by as-
Shaashi on the authority of Abu Amama: “Three things are from venerating the majesty
of Allah: showing respect to the possessor of white hair in Islam; the one who carries the
Book of Allah in his heart; and the one who bears knowledge, whether he be young or
old.”
The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded us to venerate the elder, the equitable
rulers, and the right acting scholars; and to establish the obligations of their rights as well
as leave the responsibility of their affairs to Allah. For whoever infringes any of the
obligations of their rights such as respect, honor and esteem has acted treacherously with
Allah and His messenger. They are the representatives of Allah and His messenger, the
carriers of their lawful injunctions and their servants.
It is for this reason that the author, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him appended
what: “He said…”; i.e. the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬as it was related by al-Bukhari in his
al-Adab and Abu Dawud on the authority of `Amr ibn al-`Aas: “Whoever does not show
compassion for our young…”; this means that whoever is not among the people of
compassion when it comes to our infants. The meaning of his words, upon him peace
“…and does not venerate and respect our elderly…”; where the expression ‘yuwaqqir’
(to venerate) is from ‘tawqeer’ (reverence/esteem); is that he does not show high regard
and esteem for the elderly among us. In another narration he said: “…and does not
recognize the rights of our notables”; which means that he does not recognize the nobility
of our notables in terms of their years and knowledge, because notability (kubraa)
embraces the youth due to his knowledge and the Shaykh due to his years. The meaning
of his words, upon him be peace: “…then he is not from among us”; which is that he is
not upon our spiritual path (tareeq) nor is he behaving in accordance with our conduct
(hadyi). Or it means that he is not upon the perfection of our religion (deen kaamil). Or it
means that he is not upon our customs (sunna). Or it means that he is not upon our
courtesies. For, the phrase ‘he is not from among us’ is tantamount to exempting the
person from a group; and is not meant to disengage him from the religion.
On the other hand, the benefit of utilizing this incomparable phrase is as a
deterent from falling into actions or behavior like that; similar to when a man says to his
son when reproaching him ‘I am not from you and you are not from me’; which means
that you are not following my path; as Ibn Hajr elaborated. Or it means that he is not
upon our perfected way of life; and means that he has abandoned a branch from the
branches of the religion; even though he may be within it originally. This was asserted by
Ibn al-`Arabi.
 In a narration of at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “He is not from us who does not show
compassion to our young and does not respect our elderly.” In the narration of Ahmad on
the authority of Ibn `Amr that he upon him be peace said: “He is not from us who does
not show compassion to our young and does not recognize the nobility of our elderly.” In
the narration of Ahmad as well, on the authority of Ibn Abass, that he upon him be peace
said: “He is not from us who does not show compassion to our young, show esteem to
our elderly, and command the good and forbid indecency.” From Imam Ahmad’s
narration as well, on the authority of `Ubada ibn as-Saamit, that he upon him be peace
said: “He is not from us, who does not venerate our elderly, show compassion to our
young and recognize the rights due to our scholars.”
In a narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Damra that he upon him be
peace said: “He is not from us who does not show compassion to our young and does not
recognize the rights of our elderly. He is not from us who deceives us. A believer is not a
true believer until he loves for the believer what he loves for himself.” In another of his
narrations on the authority of Abu Umama, he upon him be peace said: “Blessings is in
our elderly. Whoever does not show compassion to our young and does not venerate our
elderly is not from us.” It has been related by Abu Haatim on the authority of Anas ibn
Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When Allah desires good for
the people of a household, He gives them comprehension of the religion; their young
show respect for their elderly; He provides them with gentleness in their livelihood; and
clear objectives in their expenditures; and He lets them see their own faults and makes
them repent from them. However, when Allah desires other than that for them, He leaves
them abandoned.”
The bottom line is that each of these prophetic narrations underline the
importance the Messenger of Allah placed upon venerating the elders among the
Muslims, respecting their leaders, honoring those among them who have memorized the
Book of Allah, and being compassionate to the young. The duty of ordering his
Companions and his Umma to adhere to these virtuous character traits is a part of his
prophetic responsibility to “take people out of the darkness into the light.” The author, the
professor Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may the mercy of Allah ta`ala be upon him said in his
Daaliyya in praise of the Prophet, upon him be peace:
“All from noble qualities and etiquettes which will strengthen
The refuge of this most perfected of beings on the day of the Divine Promise
What is in him of patience, exonerating others and mercy
And courage and cheerfulness for the sake of dignity
He is good humored, bashful and constantly smiling
With teeth like studded white pearls well strung
There is none more eloquent in Arabic, among Arabs
Or non-Arabs like the son of the father of eloquence, Ahmad.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He also said”; that is to say that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said it, as it was related by Ibn `Asaakir on the
authority of Ibn Abass: “Whoever takes hold of the saddle of a man…”. This means
that whoever takes hold of the saddlebag of the camel upon which a man is riding, and
walks alongside him as he rides, out of humility or respect.
 The concept of taking hold of the saddle of a rider is an idiomatic expression for
humility (tawaadu`u), submissiveness (dhillu), service (khidma), and dependence
(i`timaad). Thus, taking hold of the saddle of a man is a sign of adherence to him (at-
tamassak bihi), having a strong bond with him (yata`allaq bihi), holding to him
(‘amsakahu) and following his words, deeds and not contradicting him (ittiba`a qawlahu
wa fi`lahu wa laa takhaalifahu). This is the essence of the warrior and the Way of the
swordsman. It is the custom of the courtesies and disciplines between subordinates and
their officers in the military; and between the disciple and his teacher. It was the normal
custom of my spiritual master Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam Kari`angha, when
we had completed our lessons, to stand and ride his donkey to the central masjid of
Maiurno to lead the people in the dhuhr prayer. At those times, I would take hold of the
saddle cloth of his donkey and respectfully trot alongside him, elated and at ease.
In the narration of at-Tabaraani he said: “Whoever holds to the saddle of his
fellow Muslim brother…”; meaning that whoever holds to the saddlebag of his Muslim
brother and walks alongside with him, out of respect to him due to his relationship with
Allah and what he possesses of knowledge, mercy and spiritual bounty. Again, Ibn
`Asaakir transmitted on the authority of `Amaar ibn Abi `Amaar that one day Zayd ibn
Thaabit was riding his mount; and then Ibn Abass came took hold of his saddle. He said
to him: “Stop that! O cousin of the Messenger of Allah!” He responded: “Likewise have
we been ordered to behave with our scholars and elders.” Zayd then said: “Show me your
hand.” He then extended his hand, and Zayd kissed it and then said: “Likewise have we
been ordered to behave with the family of the household of our Prophet.”
Thus, Ibn Abass took hold of the saddle of Zayd ibn Thaabit as a sign of
dutifulness (birr), honor (‘ikraam) and respect (ihtiraam) towards him, due to his faith,
fearful awareness, nearness to our Prophet, attachment to his Sunna, and the vastness of
his knowledge. The same example was unequivocally stated in a tradition from the
narrations of Ibn ‘n-Najaar on the authority of Ibn Abass that he once took hold of the
saddle of Zayd ibn Thaabit and said: “Indeed we have been ordered to take hold of the
saddles of our teachers and the masters of our tongues.” This means that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered us to show humility to the right acting scholars and the
scholars of the languages of the people.
The waliy of Allah Ahmad ibn Abi’l-Hawaariy, may Allah ta`ala be pleased with
him related that once a man from the Banu Hashim came to Abdallah ibn al-Mubaarak in
order to listen to prophetic narrations from him. However, he refused to narrate prophetic
traditions to him. The shareef then said to his young retainer: “Stand, for indeed Abu
Abd’r-Rahman does not consider narrating prophetic traditions to us.” So, when they
stood to mount their horses, Ibn al-Mubaarak came and took hold of their saddles. The
shareef then said: “O Abu Abd’r-Rahman, you will do this?! And you will not even
consider narrating prophetic traditions to us?!” Ibn al-Mubaarak said: “I humiliate my
body to you, but I will not humiliate the prophetic tradition to you.” This means that I
will humble my body to you by taking hold of your saddlebags; acknowledging and
honoring your relationship with our Prophet, upon him be blessings and peace. All the
above provides evidence that the phrase ‘taking hold of the saddle’ or ‘holding to the
saddle’ is a figure of speech signifying humility (tawaadu`u), submissiveness (tadhallul),
veneration (‘ikraam) and reliance (i`timaad).
 The meaning of his words: “…not hoping anything from him”; is that he shows
humility to his brother or to any person purely for the sake of Allah; not harboring desire
for anything from the affairs of this world, such as wealth, position or anything else
beside that. The meaning of his words: “or fearing him”; is that he does not show
humility to someone out of dismay, apprehension or fear of them. But rather he shows
humility to him out of respect; recognition of his station with Allah ta`ala, and his pre-
eminence with His creatures; seeking by that the Pleasure of Allah and His forgiveness. It
follows that this is the meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “…will be forgiven.”
That is to say, that he will be forgiven of his small sins by reason of his humility to the
People of Allah, knowledge, moral and ethical pre-eminence.
The apparent meaning of he will be forgiven is inclusive of both small and major
sins; as Ibn al-Mundhir asserted. However, Imam an-Nawwawi said: “It is well known
that this statement is specific for small sins.” This was also the assertion of Imam’l-
Haramayn. Qadi `Iyad attributed the following view to the people of the Sunna, where
one of them said: “It is allowable that his major sins will be lightened if he does not have
minor sins”; as Ibn Hajr mentioned in his al-Fath.
It is also conceivable that the meaning of his words: “he will be forgiven” is that
he will be elevated (rufi`a), as it was related in a prophetic tradition of al-Bizaar on the
authority of Talha: “Whoever shows humility for the sake of Allah, Allah will elevate
him”; which means that He will forgive him. It has been related by Abu ad-Dunya in his
Dhimm’l-Ghaddab on the authority of Muhammad ibn `Umayr al-`Abdi that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Humility only increases the servant in
elevation. So, be humble and Allah will elevate you. Pardoning others only increases a
person in honor. So, pardon others and Allah will honor you. Giving alms only increases
wealth in abundance. So, give alms and Allah `izza wa jalla will show His compassion to
you.”
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “O people, the most superior of
humanity is the servant who is humble in spite of his high status, the one who is austere
in spite of his wealth, the one who is impartial in spite of his capacity, and the one who is
tolerant in spite of his strength.” Imam Ibn al-Mu`tazz once said: “The scholars that are
the severest in humility are those who are the most extensive in knowledge; in the same
way that a low land is the region with the most water.” For, the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered his companions and his Umma to show humility to others as a way of
elevating their ranks with Allah ta`ala and as a means of attaining His forgiveness.
Shaykh Ahmad ibn Muhammad al-Waasiti, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in
poetic verse:
“How often does the ignorant one who is humble
Have his ignorance concealed by humility?
And how often does the one distinguished in his knowledge
Have his spiritual merit decimated by arrogance?
So, abandon arrogance as long as you live
And do not keep company with its people
For, pride is an immense sin for the chilvarous
Because it always corrupts his good deeds.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command people…”;
that is to say, that he used to order his Companions and Umma with an incumbent
injunction (‘amran waajiban) and a collective obligation (wa fardan kifaayatan). It is
said that it was an individual obligation (fardan`ayniyan) as some of the jurists extracted
it from many following prophetic traditions.
The meaning of his words: “…to request blessings for the one who sneezes”; is
to make supplication for mercy, baraka, and constancy in obedience to Allah for the one
who sneezes. Every person that makes supplication for good and baraka to befall
someone else is referred to as ‘requesting blessings for him’ (mushmmit lahu); with the
letter sheen dotted and the letter meem inflected with shadda. Its etymology is from the
expression ‘tashmeet’ (blessing), which means to say: ‘May Allah be merciful to you’
(yarhamuka Allah); meaning ‘may Allah make that the cause for the persistence of safety
for you’. In the tradition regarding the marriage of Fatima with Ali, may Allah ta`ala be
pleased with both of them: “The Prophet came to them, supplicated for them, asked for
blessings to befall them (shammata `alayhimaa); and then left.” Thus, what is meant by
him asking for blessings to befall them is that he asked Allah ta`ala that He would make
them far from misfortune (shimaata) and bring them near (wa yujannabhimaa) to what
will be the cause of blessings befalling them (maa yushammit bi `alayhimaa).
The meaning of his words: “…three times…”; is that he, upon him be peace,
used to command the people when someone sneezed three times to then ask for blessings
for them three times. The meaning of his words: “…then if he sneezes again”; where the
letter taa is inflected with kasra, as it is cited in the al-Qaamuus; is that if the person
sneezes again after the third time; or if he sneezes in addition to the third time: “…to
consider that he has a cold.” This means that the one sneezing has been infected with a
common cold (zukaam), and therefore there is no need to ask for blessings for him after
the third sneeze. It has been related by Ibn Maja on the authority of Salma ibn al-‘Akwa`
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “The one who sneezes should be
blessed three times. If he sneezes in addition to that, then he has a common cold.” In the
narration of Ibn as-Sunni on the authority of Abu Hurayra, he upon him be peace said:
“The one who sneezes should be blessed when he sneezes three times. If he sneezes
again, then it is a common cold.”
As for the transmissions which give evidence for it being highly recommended to
ask for blessings for the one who sneezes, is in what was related by at-Tirmidhi on the
authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “A
Muslim has a right upon another Muslim in six good things: to give him the greetings of
peace when he meets him; to answer his invitation when he invites him; to ask blessings
for him when he sneezes; to visit him when he is sick; to follow his funeral procession
when he dies; and to love for him what he loves for himself.”
As for the prophetic transmissions which give evidence of the obligation of
blessing the one who sneezes, is in what was related by al-Bukhari and Muslim on the
authority of Abu Hurayra, that he, upon him be peace said: “The rights of a Muslim upon
a Muslim are five things: returning the greetings of peace; visiting the sick; following
funeral processions; answering invitations and asking for blessings for the one who
sneezes.” In the narration of Muslim, he upon him be peace said: “A Muslim has five
things that are obligatory upon his brother: returning greetings of peace; asking blessings
for the one who sneezes; answering invitations; visiting the sick and following funeral
processions.” In the narration of al-Haakim: “Among the rights of a Muslim upon another
Muslim are five: being present at funerals; answering invitations; returning greetings;
visiting the sick and asking for blessings for the one who sneezes if he remembers Allah
`izza wa jalla.”
However, when the one who sneezes does not praise Allah when he sneezes then
no one should ask for blessings for him (fa laa yashtammithu ‘ahadun); as it was related
by Muslim and others on the authority of Abu Musa al-‘Ash`ari who said that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When one of you sneezes, he should praise
Allah. Then others should ask for blessings for him. However, if he does not praise Allah,
then you should not ask for blessings for him.” It has been transmitted by Anas ibn Malik
that two men once sneezed while with the Messenger of Allah, may bless him and grant
him peace. He blessed one of them, but did not bless the other. It was said: “O Messenger
of Allah, you blessed that one but you did not bless that one.” He said: “Indeed that one
praised Allah, and that one did not praise Allah.” These two prophetic traditions are clear
regarding the ban of asking for blessings for a person who sneezes and does not praise
Allah. It is for this reason that some of the jurists consider it reprehensible to ask for
blessings for a person who sneezes and does not praise Allah. Likewise, if a person did
praise Allah when he sneezed but no one heard him, then blessings should not be asked
for him.
It was related that once Ibn Umar heard a man sneeze and he said to him: “May
Allah be merciful to you if you praised Allah.” The jurists differ regarding what a person
who sneezes should say when he sneezes. A cadre of jurists maintains that he should not
say anything in addition to ‘all praises are due to Allah’ (al-hamdu lillah), as it was
related by Ibn Jareer on the authority of Mu`awiyya ibn al-Hakam who said: “I presented
myself to the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and learned many matters in Islam. Among the
matters which I learnt is that you must praise Allah when you sneeze; and when the one
who sneezes praises Allah, it should be said to him: ‘May Allah be merciful to you’.” In
the narration of al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Hurayra the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: “When one of you sneezes, he should say: ‘All praises are due to Allah’; and his
brother or companion should say to him: ‘May Allah be merciful to you.’ When his
brother says: ‘May Allah be merciful to you’; he should say in response: ‘May Allah
guide you and correct your heart’.” In this is proof for what Ibn Bataal maintained: “The
majority of the jurists hold the view that the one who sneezes should say in answer to the
one who ask blessings for him: ‘May Allah guide you and correct your heart’ (yahdeekum
Allah wa yuslih baalakum).”
However, Imam an-Nawwawi held the view that the best that the one who sneezes
should say when he sneezes is: ‘All praises are due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds’ (al-
hamdulillahi rabb’l-`aalameen); as it was corroborated in the prophetic tradition of al-
Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Saalim ibn `Ubayd that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When one of you sneezes, he should say: ‘All praises are due to
Allah, the Lord of the worlds.’ It should then be said to him in response: ‘May Allah be
merciful to you.’ Then he should say: ‘May Allah forgive us and you’.” In this is the
evidence for the jurists of Kufa that the most superior statement that the one who sneezes
should say in response to the one who ask blessings for him is: ‘May Allah forgive us and
you’ (yaghfir Allahu lanaa wa lakum).
Some of the jurists hold the view that the most superior statement that the one
who sneezes should say when he sneezes is: ‘All praises are due to Allah in every
circumstance’ (al-hamdulillahi `alaa kulli haalin); as it was related in a prophetic
tradition of at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib, that he upon him be peace
said: “When one of you sneezes, he should say: ‘All praises are due to Allah in every
circumstance.’ The one who responds to him should say: ‘May Allah be merciful to you’;
and he should then say: ‘May Allah guide you and correct your heart’.” In this is
evidence for some of the jurists who maintain that the appropriate response of the one
who sneezes to someone who blesses him is: ‘May Allah guide you and correct your
heart’ (yahdeekum Allah wa yuslih baalakum).
Both Malik and as-Shafi` held the view that a person has a choice between saying:
‘May Allah forgive us and you’ (yaghfir Allahu lanaa wa lakum); and ‘May Allah guide
you and correct your heart’ (yahdeekum Allah wa yuslih baalakum). While some of the
people of knowledge hold the view that it is lawful to join to two expressions together.
Some of the scholars hold the view that it is permissible after sneezing for a person to
have a choice in saying: ‘All praises are due to Allah the Lord of the worlds’, ‘All praises
are due to Allah in every circumstance’; or in joining the two expressions together; as it
was related by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nisaai’ and others on the authority
of Saalim ibn `Ubayd that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “When one of
you sneezes, he should say: ‘All praises are due to Allah the Lord of the worlds’; or ‘All
praises are due to Allah in every circumstance.’ And the one who responds to him should
say: ‘May Allah be merciful to you.’ He should then say to him: ‘May Allah forgive us
and you’.”
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered us to praise Allah when sneezing
because by it belief is enhanced and increased. It has been related on the authority of
`Ataa’ that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever sneezes three times, then true
belief becomes firmly established in his heart.” This means that his faith is augmented
with faith due to his praise of Allah ta`ala and his exaltation of Him.
The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered us to bless the one who sneezes
because in that is spiritual favor and a medicinal cure. It has been related by ad-Daylami
and al-Haakim in his Taarikh on the authority of Ibn Umar that the Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “The one who sneezes should began with praising Allah, for that is a cure from
every sickness as well as from waist pain.” In the narration of Ibn `Asaakir on the
authority of Ibn Abass, that he upon him be peace said: “Whoever anticipates the one
who sneezes with praise of Allah, Allah will preserve him from waist pain; and he will
not experience reprehensible things until he leaves this world’s life.” In another narration,
he upon him be peace said: “Whoever anticipates the one who sneezes with praising
Allah, he will be protected from back pain, earache, and stomach aches.”
The above is proof for those who say that it is lawful to bless the one who sneezes
and does not praise Allah ta`ala. Qadi `Iyad said: “One of our teachers once said that the
one who sneezes was ordered to praise Allah because of the blessings and advantages that
he obtains from expelling the congested acerbic vapors from the nasal passage to the
brain.” Imam as-Samraqandi said in his Bustan’l-`Aarifeen: “It is highly recommended
for the one who sneezes to suppress the sound of the sneeze, but to raise his voice with
praise so that the people can hear him, because giving blessings is obligatory for them
once they hear the praises of Allah.”
The people of knowledge differ regarding what the one who sneezes says during
prayer. Some of the scholars of the Taabi`uun said: “If a man sneezes while he is
performing a prescribed prayer, he should praise Allah to himself and should not extend
his expressions beyond that.” Some of the Companions held the view that it is lawful to
extend one’s expressions in praising Allah even if he is in the prayer, as it was related by
an-Nisaai’ on the authority of Rifaa`at ibn Raafi` who said: “I once prayed behind the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and I sneezed. I then said: ‘All praises are due to Allah with
abundant excellent and blessed praises in it and blessings upon it, as our Lord loves and
is pleased with.’ When the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬completed the prayer and
stood to leave, he said: ‘Who was it that spoke during the prayer?’ No one spoke up. He
then said a second time: ‘Who was it that spoke during the prayer?’ Rifaa`at ibn Raafi`
ibn `Afraa’ said: ‘It was me O Messenger of Allah.’ He said: ‘How did you say it again?’
He said: ‘I said: All praises are due to Allah with abundant excellent and blessed praises
in it and blessings upon it, as our Lord loves and is pleased with.’ The Prophet, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬then said: ‘By the One in whose Hand is my soul, thirty something Angels were
hurrying to see which of them would be the first to ascend to heavens with that’.”
These prophetic traditions are indications of the innate relationship between the
genesis of humanity and giving praise of Allah, because the beginning of the affair of
humanity originated with giving praise to Allah ta`ala. It was related in an extensive
prophetic tradition from at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “When Allah created Adam and blew the spirit into
him, he sneezed and said: ‘All praises are due to Allah!’ Then his Lord said to him: ‘May
Allah be merciful to you O Adam’.”
The scholars are unanimous that it is reprehensible for the person sitting to relieve
himself to praise Allah ta`ala when he sneezes, and to bless someone else whom he hears
sneeze. This is because it is not lawful to do remembrance of Allah ta`ala with any kind
of remembrance while relieving oneself, and Allah ta`ala knows best.
The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace ordered his
Companions and Umma to praise Allah when sneezing, and to ask for mercy for the one
who sneezes when he praises Him because of what it is this of blessings, baraka, mercy,
guidance, correction, forgivenenss, the increase of faith, physical cures, protection, and
bodily advantage. For, it is the right of our master, the Messenger of Allah, may Allah
bless him and grant him peace, that he order or command everything which is of benefit
in this world’s life and the Hereafter and to forbid us everything which is harmful in this
world’s life and the Hereafter; as Allah ta`ala says: “There has come to you a Messenger
from among yourselves, dear to him is what afflicts you, deeply concerned for you and
who is to the believers kind and merciful.” The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him
and grant him peace once said: “I have not neglected anything which will draw you near
Paradise, except I have informed you of it. I have not neglected anything which will
make you far from the Fire, except that I have informed you of it.” This is due to his
sympathy and compassion for humanity and all of creation.
The brother of the author and his spiritual guide, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may
Allah be merciful to both of them, said about the Prophet in praise of him in poetic verses
beginning and ending in the letter “daal”:
“Humanity has accepted in truth that Ahmad is their master
He is the guide for creatures, the like of him cannot be found
The remedy when I have no cure, then the solution is Ahmad
Leave me alone to call out in the night: “O Muhammad!”
I am bewildered and in my heart is ardent passion burning with zeal.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command people...”; i.e.
he upon him be peace ordered his Companions and Umma with a command that was
highly recommended (‘amran mustahibban): “…to have mutual love for one another
for the sake of Allah...”. This means to love one another in the Way of Allah and not
because of wealth (‘amwaal), kinship (‘arhaam), or any other worldly reasons (‘asbaab
dunyawiy). The expression ‘tahaabuu’ (mutual love) is said to be conjugated on the root
‘tafaa`ulin’ (to act mutually or interactively), where each individual loves his friend and
they thus have mutal love for one another. Those who share mutual love are those whom
Allah ta`ala describes as: “He, Allah, loves them” and “they love Him”. This means that
Allah ta`ala places love in their hearts between themelves.
It has been related in a prophetic tradition transmtted by at-Tirmidhi on the
authority of Abu Hurayra that he upon him be peace said: “When Allah `izza wa jalla
loves a servant He calls Jibril and says: ‘Indeed I love so-and-so, therefore love him.’
Then this call is given in heaven, and then He causes this love to descend to the people of
the earth. It is for this reason Allah ta`ala says: ‘Indeed those who believe and do good
deeds, the Compassionate will place love for them.’ When Alah hates a servant, He calls
Jibril and says: ‘Indeed I hate so-and-so’; and a call is made in the heavens, and then
hatred for him descends upon the earth.”
He, upon him be blessings and peace aso said as it was related by Abu Ya`ala and
Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Abu Hurayra: “Give gifts and you will gain mutual
love”; which means some of you should give gifts to others and you will have mutual
love emerge between you as aresult. By means of giving gifts some of you will love one
another. Love for the sake of Allah is among the innate traits of the Awliyya whose belief
has been perfected. It has been related by Ibn Jareer on the authority of Abu Musa al-
‘Ash`ari that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “There is coming a people
who will be the least of humanity and from diverse ethnicities, without any ties of kinship
between one another. Yet, they will have mutual love for the sake of Allah, and have
mutual spiritual purification and lucidity for the sake of Allah. Allah will establish for
them lecterns made of light on the Day of Judgment and sit them upon them. They will
not be stricken with terror when the people will be stricken with terror. They are the
Awliyya of Allah who have no fear or grief.”
In a narration of Ibn Abi’d-Dunya in his Kitaab’l-Ikhwaan on the authority of
Abu Hurayra, he upon him be peace said: “Indeed among the slaves of Allah are servants
who are not prophets, and yet the Prophets and the martyrs will envy them. They will
love one another with the spirit of Allah `izza wa jalla without links connecting them by
wealth or kinship. Their faces will be luminous and they will be upon lecterns made of
light. They will not fear when the rest of the people will be fearful, nor will they be
saddened when the rest of humanity will be saddened.” He then recited: “Indeed the
Awliyya of Allah there is no fear on them nor do they grieve.”
It has been related by Ahmad, Muslim, Abu Dawud , at-Tirmidhi and Ibn Maja on
the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “By
the One in whose Hand is my soul, you will not enter the Garden until you truly believe.
You will not truly believe until you have mutual love for one another. Shall I not guide
you to an affair that if you were to do it, it would cause mutul love between you? It is
spreading peace between you.” This means spreading the greetings (tahiyya) between
Muslims; or it means spreading safety (sullam), trust (‘amaan), love (muwadda) and
harmony (sulh) amongst humanity. Imam an-Nawwawi said regarding the meaning of his
words, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “…You will not truly believe until you have mutual love for one
another…”; “This means that your faith will not be perfected, nor will your
circumstances in belief be corrected except with mutual love for one another.” Thus, love
(mahabba) is the causative factor for the perfection of belief, and enmity between
Muslims is the causative factor for the imperfection of belief.
It has been related by at-Tabaraani in his al-Awsat on the authority of Ali ibn Abi
Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “The head of intelligence,
after sound faith in Allah, is causing genuine love to occur between humanity.” This
means that actually manifestating love between people (‘idhhar’l-hubb bayna’n-naas). It
has been related by Abu Dawud on the authority of Samra ibn Jundub who said: “The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered us to always answer the leaders, to have mutual love for
one another, and to give the greetings of peace to one another.”
The meaning of his words: “…to have affection for one another for the sake of
Allah...”; is that he, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded people to have mutual affection for one
another purely in the Way of Allah devoid of worldly reasons. The etymology of the
expression ‘tawaadadu’ (mutual affection) is from the verb ‘tawaddadu’ (engratiating
oneself to someone), meaning showing mutual love (tahabbabu); or intentionally trying
to get someone’s affections (ajtalib wuddahu). It is taken from the conjugation
‘tafaa`alu’ (to act interactively) of the expression ‘widaad’ (sincere affection/cordiality).
Thus, those who have mutual affection are those who seek to curry one another’s
affections purely for the sake of Allah; i.e. to love one another for His sake. Allah ta`ala
says: “Indeed those who believe and do good deeds, the Compassionate will place
affection for them.” Al-Fara’ said that some of the scholars of exegesis said: “This means
that Allah will place affection for them in the breast of the believers.” Or it means that
affection in this world’s life will be placed for them; or that love will be placed in
humanity for them in this world’s life.
This is because mutual love for the sake of Allah and mutual affection
demonstrated in good deeds is what disrupts the plots of Satan, as it was related by ad-
Daylami on the authority of Ibn Umar. It was related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan
on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The
head of intelligence after faith in Allah is inducing genuine mutual affection among
humanity.” In a narration from Ali ibn Abi Talib, he upon him be peace said: “The head
of intelligence after the religion is inducing genuine mutual affection for humanity and
procuring good for every righteous person and sinful person.” In the narration of as-
Shirazi in his al-‘Alqaab on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah,
may Alah bess him and grant him peace said: “The head of intelligence after sound faith
in Allah is inducing genuine affection for humanity. The people of mutual affection in
this world will have ranks in the Garden. Whoever has ranks in the Garden, will be in the
Garden.” In the narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Abu Hurayra, he upon him
be peace said: “The most superior action after sound faith is inducing genuine mutual
affection to humanity.” In his narrations as well from his Mukaarim’l-Akhlaaq on the
authority of Ibn Umar that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Inducing
genuine mutual affection towards humanity is half of intelligence.”
 The meaning of his words: “…to give mutual assistance to one another...”; is
that he upon him be peace commanded the people to provide mutual assistance between
them (ta`aaduda baynahum). Mutual assistance is from the root verb ‘`adada’ (to give a
hand), or to help (‘a`ana). Ibn Mundhir said: “It is said that it means power (quwwa)
because a human is empowered by the support of his limbs (yuqawwi bi `adadihi), thus
power is actually named with the cognomen ‘limbs’ (`adadun).” Allah ta`ala says
regarding the strengthening of our master Musa with his brother, Harun, upon them be
peace: “We will strengthen your limbs by means of your brother”; which means that We
will assist you (sanu`eenuka) by means of your brother; or We will fortify you
(sanushidduka) by means of him. This is expressed by way of metaphor because Allah
ta`ala does not require assistance from anyone, since: “He is the Independenty Rich and
Praiseworthy.” Thus, the meaning of mutual support is the assistance that people give to
one another, and the mutual help provided to one another. The ‘limbs’ of a man are his
helpers and supporters. Allah ta`ala says: “…and nor do I choose those who are astray as
helpers (`adadan)”; which means that I do take those who are astray as supports. One
says: ‘Fulaanun `adadun fulaanan’ (So-and-so is the support of so-and-so); i.e. he is his
helper (yu`eenahu). It has been related in a prophetic tradition of Ahmad that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said during a military campaign: “O Allah You
are my Patron (`adadiy); You are my Helper. By means of You I am empowered. By
means of You I am supported. By means of You I fight.” For, the meaning of “You are
my Patron” is that You are my Helper, which means the most perfect kind of help and its
most maximum manifestation; as it summarized from the Daleel al-Faaliheen of Shaykh
Muhammad ibn `Alaan as-Sadeeqi.
The meaning of his words: “…to cooperate with one another...”; is that he, upon
him be peace commanded people to combine forces with one another (at-tasaa`idu
baynahum). Thus, this expression is actually near in meaning to mutual assistance
(ta`adadu). The etymology of ‘tasaa`idu’ (cooperation) is from the verb ‘sa`ada’ (to
help), ‘musaa`ida’ (assistance), and ‘si`aad’ (indispensable); which means providing
support (‘a`aanahu). Metaphorically we say that the supporters of a person are his bodily
limbs; and that the supporters of a bird are its wings; because it relies upon them in flight.
Allah ta`ala says: “…as for those whom He supports (su`iduu)…”; which means those
whom Allah helps, assists, and give success. It is clear that the two expressions
‘ta`adadu’ and ‘tasaa`idu’ have one meaning; which is giving mutual assistance and
cooperation (ta`aawunu). Thus, the two phrases are recurent in order to strengthen and
make the meaning more eloquent; since every supporter is in fact an assistant; and every
assistant is in fact a supporter.The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded us to
cooperate in assisting one another in many prophetic traditions following the example of
the words of Allah `izza wa jalla: “…and assists one another in righteousness and fearful
awareness, and do not assists one another in sin and enmity.”
Imam al-Qurtubi said: “This verse is a command to the whole of creation to
cooperate with one another in righteousness and fearful awareness; where it means to
give mutual assistance to one another. It is encouragement for them to act upon what
Allah ta`ala ordered them; to desists from what He prohibited them; and disengage
themselves from it. This is consistent with what was related from the Prophet, may Allah
bess him and grant him peace when he said: ‘The one who guides to what is good as like
the one who does it.’ Subsequently, it says that the one who guides to what is evil is like
the one who does evil.”
It has been related by al-Khateeb on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever relieves a worldly difficulty from his
brother believer, Allah will relieve seventy difficulties from him on the Day of Judgment.
Allah remains in the assistant of the servant as long as the servant is in the assistance of
his brother. Whoever covers his Muslim brother in this world, Allah will cover him on
the Day of Judgment.”
Then a man said: “O Messenger of Allah! Who are the people of the Garden?” He
said: “Every lenient person who is easy going and uncomplicated.” In a narration from
Ibn an-Najaar on the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib, he upon him be peace said:
“Whoever moves in the assistanace of his Muslim brother and brings some advantage to
him; will have the recompense of the one who struggles in the Way of Allah `izza wa
jalla.” In another narration he, upon him be peace said: “Assist your brother whether he
be an oppressor or oppressed.” It was said: “O Messenger of Allah, I understand assisting
him when he is oppressed, but how can I assist him when he is an oppressor?” He said:
“By returning him back to the truth. That is the way you help him.”
The meaning of the words of Shaykh Abdullahi Dan Fodio: “…and to intercede
on behalf of one another”; is that he, upon him be peace commanded the people to be
intercessors on behalf of each another. Allah ta`ala says: “Whoever intercedes with an
excellent intercession will have a portion of it. Whoever intercedes with an evil
intercession will have a liability from it.” Ibn Mandhur said: “The meaning of
intercession is originaly the mediating speech that a person makes to a ruler regarding the
needs of someone else.” It has been related by al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of
Abu Musa al-‘Ash`ari who said that once a beggar, or someone desiring the fulfillment of
a need came to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace and he
said to his Companions: “Intercede on his behalf and you will be recompensed; for Allah
will fulfill whatever he wants upon the tongue of His prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.”
The meaning of this prophetic tradition according to Ibn Hajr is: ‘Intercede by
obtaining for yourselves absolute recompense, whether you are actually able to fulfill the
person’s needs or not.’ At-Taybi said regarding the meaning of the above prophetic
tradition: “Whenever a person in need presents a need of his to me, endeavor to intercede
for him on my behalf. When you intercede, you will attain recompense regardless if your
intercession is accepted from them or not. Thus, Allah causes to be fulfilled upon the
tongue of His prophet, whatever He wills from the necessities of fulfilling needs or its
absence. This means whether he is able to fulfill his needs or not. This is by the power of
Allah ta`ala and His decree.”
It has been related by Ibn Maja on the authority of Ruhmin as-Samaa`iy that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The the most superior manner of intercession
is that you intercede between two people regarding matrimony.” This means, that you
intercede between a man and woman by being an intermediate between them and a
causative factor for each of them desiring to remain with one another; as summarized
from Shaykh Muhammad al-Minowi in his Fayd ‘l-Qadeer.
In the narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Samra it is related that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The best form of charity is that of the tongue.”
It was said: “O Messenger of Allah what is the charity of the tongue?” He said: “It is the
intercession you make in order to free a person enslaved; in order to protect blood frm
being unjustly shed; in order to cause good to persists; for the generosity you show to
your brother, and in order to ward off hateful and disliked things from him.” For indeed,
showing mutual affection (tahabbabu), providing mutual assistance (tasaa`idu),
cooperating in joint endeavors (ta`aaduda) and giving intercession (shafa`at) for others
are among the qualities of the perfected awliyya who behave in accordance with all the
Muhammadan character traits and virtues. Each of these noble virtues are subsumed in
the words of the author, Shaykh Abdullahi Dan Fodio, may Allah ta`ala be merciful him
when he said in his Manan’l-Manaan in poetic verse:
“By safeguarding oaths and likewise preserving chastity
By relationships through marriage is also known to be among the traits of belief.
It is our accomplishing the rights of those whom we must support
And our being dutiful to parents is what is demanded of us.
By the performing our acts of atonement and the educating
Of our children by this we are given elevated stations.
Obeying custodians and connecting with the nearest of kin
By taking pains in doing these you will attain mercy.
And by being compassionate to servants, and additionally, standing
On the side of justice in government and our returning the greetings of peace.
Our obedience to those who possess the authority
And likewise, our showing respect and honor towards our neighbors.
Including in these is bringing about reconcialiation between people
And behaving towards all people like a helping brother.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to disparage…”; that is to
say, he would find fault with (ya`uubu) or he considered it abhorrent (yashjubu). The
expression ‘yadhummu’ is taken from the verb ‘dhammahu’ (‘He disparaged it’); like
when you say ‘yadhummuhu dhamman’ (‘He disparaged it reproachfully); thus the thing
becomes blameworthy (madhmuum), which is the opposite of praiseworthy (naqeed’l-
madh). It means to criticize a thing based upon its offensiveness (al-lawm fee al-‘isaa’at).
The meaning of his words: “…the two faced person…” where the expression ‘dhawee’
is in the accusative case (mansuub) and is the plural of the word ‘dhu’ (the owner);
meaning the companion of two false faces; the one: “…who goes to this people with one
face and to that people with another face” The jurist Ibn al-`Arabi said: “The
expression ‘face’ (wajh) in the context of this prophetic tradition means ‘objective’
(qasd).” His reason for disparaging the two-faced individual is because by outward
judgment it constitutes pure hypocrisy (nifaaq mahad), lying (kidhab), deceit (khidaa`)
and plotting to be exposed to the secrets of each group. He is the one who goes to each
group with what pleases them, regardless if either of the groups is good or evil. This sort
of behavior is forbidden dissimulation (mudaahina muharrima) because it is the cause of
corruption and division prevailing among the people. This is the precise state of the
hypocrite (munaafiq) who: ‘straddles the fence, neither with these nor with those’;
completely confused in his religion; neither manifesting pure polytheism nor pure belief.
Ibn al-Bataal said: “Being two faced is called deceitful dissimulation (mudaahin)
because he manifests to the people of evil that he is pleased with them. He encounters
them with a face joyous with desire and friendship. Similarly, he manifests to the people
of truth that he is content with them. This behavior is simply a riding beast that he rides
so that each faction becomes pleased with him. In this regard he shows each of the
factions that he is among them.”
The culpability of being two faced has been transmitted in many prophetic
traditions. Among these is what was related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu
Hurayra that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “You will find that the most evil of people
with Allah on the Day of Judgment to be the two faced individual who went to those
people with a face, and then to those people with another face.” In the narration of Abu
Dawud, he upon him be peace said: “Among the evilest of people is the two-faced
individual who goes to these people with a face, and to those people with another face.”
The meaning of the expressions ‘sharr’n-naas’ (the evil of the people) and ‘sharaar’n-
naas’ (the most evil of the people) on the Day of Judgment is the most malevolent of
them in circumstances (‘aswaahum haalan) or the most severe of them in punishment
(‘ashaddahum ‘adhaaban) because the hypocrite will be in the most heinous
circumstances in the Fire; as Allah ta1ala says: “Indeed the hypocrites will be in the
lowest stratum of the Fire and you will not find a helper for them.” This is because the
hypocrite will neither be among the disbelievers or the believers. Rather, they will be
among the lowest stations in Jahannam, even below that of Iblees in the Sa`ir.
It has been related in a narration of al-‘Isma`ili on the authority of al-`Amish that
he upon him be peace described the two faced individual as: “…the one who goes to
those people with the words of these people and to these people with the words of those
people.” This means that he circulates among them with slander (nameema) in order to
sow corruption between two groups. Thus, his actions are connected to the spreading of
falsehood and lies. The reason that the two-faced individual is the most evil of people is
because the foundation of their characters is circulating in the earth with corruption,
especially when the objective of their words is not to bring about reconciliation between
people.
Imam an-Nawwawi said: “As for the one whose objective in going to two
different groups is to bring about reconciliation (islaah); then this is praiseworthy.” Other
jurists have said that the distinction between them is that the blameworthy is the one who
embellishes actions for one group and makes the same actions repulsive to another group;
and he depicts each of the groups as nefarious to the other. The praiseworthy is the one
who goes to each of the groups with words which has in them reconciliation regarding
the other; where he proffers excuses to each of the groups on behalf of the other. He,
thus, transmits what is possible for him to transmit of the commendable behavior of each
group while intentionally concealing their repulsive traits. In this regard he ends up
strengthening the relationship between these divided groups. As for the blameworthy in
this, it is the foundation of hypocrisy (‘asl’n-nifaaq) because he goes to one people in one
state and to another people in its opposite state. The believer is not like this because his
state regarding the truth is singular, since he is always attentively aware of his Exalted
Creator, who is with him with His knowledge wherever he is; as Imam al-Minowi said in
an abridged fashion.
Therefore, avoiding the evils of the two-faced person is a part of true sincerity
(ikhlaas); and sincerity is the head of the all praiseworthy and redemptive character traits.
Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah ennoble his face, once said in poetic verse:
“Be responsible for the rights of the friend when he comes
 Make the righteousness of sincerity be an obligatory virtue from you
Be preserving of the rights of parents and totally helpful
To your neighbor: the possessor of fearful awareness and the people of nearness.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command people…”; i.e.
he used to order his Companions and Umma with a command which is legally highly
recommended (‘amran mustahibban): “…to make regular calls upon the sick and
infirm…” This is because visiting the ill (`iyaadat’l-mareed) is a confirmed Sunna, as we
mentioned previously, due to what is in it of bringing solace to others (tasliyya) and
establishing affections between the hearts of people (ta’leef’l-quluub). I also mentioned
that the scholars differ regarding the legal judgment of visiting the sick. It is said that it is
a collective obligation (fard kifaaya). It is also said that it is an individual obligation
(fard’l-`ayn). It is also said that it is lawful to visit a protected religious minority
(dhimmi), when it is hoped that he will become Muslim, or when it embraces the social
welfare of everyone.
As for the establishment of visiting the sick in revelation, Allah ta`ala says
regarding the day of Friday (yawm’l-jum`a): “…when you have completed the prayer,
then disperse in the earth seeking the bounties of Allah, and remember Allah with much
remembrance, so that you can be successful.” Ibn Abass gave the exegesis of these words
by his saying: “In this verse they are not being commanded to seek after anything of this
world’s life. The bounties being commanded to seek after are: calling upon the sick
(`iyaadat’’l-mareed); attending funerals (huduur’l-janaa’iz); and visiting brothers
(ziyaarat’l-‘akh) for the sake of Allah ta`ala.” It is for this reason that it has become a
custom for the people in the lands of Islam on Fridays to call upon the sick, to visit the
graves of parents, to sit in the assemblies of knowledge and its people and to sit in the
circles of remembrance of Allah and its people.
It has been related by at-Tabaraani in his al-Awsat on the authority of Anas ibn
Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Visit the sick and infirm
and request them to make supplication for you, since the supplication of the sick is
answered and his sins are forgiven.” In the narration of Ahmad on the authority of Abu
Sa`id al-Khudri that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Visit the sick and accompany
funeral processions. This will remind you of the Hereafter.” In the narration of ad-
Daylami on the authority of Anas ibn Malik: “Visit the sick and answer invitations. In
visiting the sick you should do it on alternative days except when the person’s malady
completely overcomes them. Then they should not be visited. Visitation should
customarily be done after three days. The best visitation is that one in which the visiting
time is the least.” From this we know that a part of the courtesies of visiting the sick is
not prolonging the sitting until the sick person becomes distressed or it causes difficulties
for his family.
It has been related by al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Musa al-‘Ash`ari that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Manumit captives (meaning those
enslaved), feed the hungry and visit the sick.” It is a legal right for every sick person to be
visited, regardless if he is a freeman, a noble servant, a weak Muslim or disbeliever; as
Imam al-Qaari said in his Jam`u’l-Wasaa’il. Ibn Hajr said: “Connected to visiting the sick
is being amenable towards him, showing concern for his circumstance and being kind
towards him. Perhaps this custom can be the cause of his recovery and the reviving of his
strength.” Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬commanded his Companions
and Umma to visit the sick and infirm due to what is in it of spiritual bounty and the
mercy which it brings in this life and the Hereafter.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever calls upon a sick person or visits his
brother in Allah, a caller will call out to him: ‘You have performed well. You have
sought after your well being and have prepared a place for yourself in the Garden’.” This
prophetic tradition means that whoever calls upon a sick person for the sake of Allah,
while reckoning with his own soul and not for any worldly matter; or visits a fellow
Muslim brother in the religion; an Angel will call out to him and make supplication for
excellent well being in this life and the Hereafter. It will request from Allah that He make
his manner and behavior for him a path to the Garden, by removing from him demeaning
character and adorning him with noble character. Allah ta`ala will make an immense
station in the Garden for him due to his behavior.
In the narration of al-Bukhari on the authority of Jaabir ibn Abdallah that he upon
him be blessings and peace said: “Whoever calls upon a sick person will be designated
with divine mercy, until when he sits with him, he actually abides in it.” This means that
he will be granted with mercy in this life and the Hereafter, baraka and a firm station
with Allah ta`ala. It has been related by Muslim and others on the authority of Thawbaan
that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Indeed a Muslim when he visits his fellow
Muslim brother will continue to abide in the fruits of the Garden.” This means that he
will abide in the meadows of the Garden, its advantages and fruits. Or it means that he
will continue on the path to the Garden, or on the path which leads to it.
The meaning of his words: “…and forbade them…”; is that the Prophet, upon
him be peace, prohibited his Companions and Umma “…from alienating themselves
from one another”; that is to say, that he forbade them from severing mutual ties with
one another (taqaatu`u). The word ‘tahaajaru’ (severance) is from the verbal expression
‘hajarahu’ (‘he parted company with him’), ‘yahjruhu hijraanan’ (‘he abandoned him
cutting him off completely’); thus the two people became alienated from one another
(yatahaajiraan). It means some people completely cutting off ties from others; and is the
opposite of maintaining relationship and contact (wa huwa diddu’l-wasl wa’s-silla).
Aptly, there has been innumerous prophetic traditions narrated prohibiting the severance
of ties; as we will demonstrate.
The meaning of his words: “…and from having mutual enmity towards one
another…”; is that the Prophet, upon him be peace, forbade his Companions and Umma
from the severance of ties (taqaatu`u), becoming estranged (tasaarima), from alienation
(hijraan) and antagonism (mu`aadaat). The expressions ‘tahaajaru’ (severance) and
mutual enmity (tadaabiru) are synonyms sharing the same meaning because each implies
a person turning their backs on someone. The distinction between them, however, is that
‘severance’ (tahaajaru) also infers ‘hujr’ which means addressing the one being severed
with obscene language (kalaam qabeeh). Allah ta`ala says: “Do not drive away those who
call upon their Lord in the mornings and evenings seeking His countenance. You are not
responsible in any manner for reckoning with them, nor or they responsible in any
manner for reckoning with you. If you were to drive them away, then you would be
among the unjust.”
 It has been related by Muslim on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger
of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The actions of people are presented twice each week, on
Monday and Thursday. Every believing servant is forgiven except the servant who has a
grudge with his brother. It is said: ‘Leave forgiving these two until they reconcile’.” In
the narration of at-Tabaraani on the authority of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari that the Prophet,
may Allah bless him and grant said: “No Monday or Thursday comes without Allah
elevating good deeds except two who have become estranged from one another.”
In the narration of Ibn an-Najaar on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Do not alienate one another. Do not envy one another. Do
not hate one another. Rather, be brothers of one another as servants of Allah. It is not
lawful for a Muslim to alienate himself from his brother more than three days.” In
another narration of Ibn Abass: “Alienation is not lawful for more than three days.” It has
been related in the prophetic tradition of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Do not hate one another. Do not alienate one another. Do not
compete with one another. Rather, be brothers of one another as servants of Allah.” In
another narration, he upon him be peace said: “Do not envy one another. Do not undercut
each other in business. Do not hate one another. Do not alienate one another.”
Imam Ibn Hajr said in his Fat’h al-Mubeen: “This is a prophetic tradition which
contains ennumerous advantages. It is an indication of the majestic character to the
beginner and the one who has attained the goal. Rather, this prophetic tradition contains
the essence of hope in its meanings and the purest comprehension in its implications.
This prophetic tradition comprises all of the legal rules of Islam which have been
recorded or understood; and it also embraces every kind of virtuous courtesy, either
potentially or realized.” In the above cited prophetic tradition is clear prohibition against
mutual envy, cheating, mutual hatred and alienation. For, the Messenger of Allah, may
Allah bless him and grant him peace, prohibited us from these traits in order to perfect in
us noble character as a means of extracting us out of darkness into the Light by the
permission of his Lord, the Forgiving the Merciful. For, he, upon him be blessings and
peace, is the caller to Allah, the One; as Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said of him in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareefa:
“He is the caller to Allah, the guide whose words lead in the right Way
And regarding the one who answers him, O friend, he is joyful
In commanding good and forbidding evil, all from him is pure guidance
For, our Prophet, the one who commands and forbids, there is no one
More virtuous than him in saying: ‘No’ and ‘Yes’.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to prohibit people…”; that
is to say that he forbade his Companions and Umma: “…from showing contempt
towards people…”; which means he forbade degrading them (mutahaanihim) and
ridiculing them (izdiraa’ihim). The expression ‘ihtiqaar’ (contempt) is from the verb
‘haqara’ (‘to denigrate’); and ‘yahqaru hiqran’ (‘he denigrated him disparagingly).; i.e.
he belittled him (istisgharahu) and humiliated him (istidhillahu). Thus, the Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬forbade denigrating people from any direction because it is among the most
blameworthy traits which are forbidden to behave with. Allah ta`ala says: “Indeed He
does not love the arrogant.” This means that Allah ta`ala does not love those who believe
that they are innately superior to others.
 It is for this reason that showing contempt towards people or elevating oneself
over other Muslims, even over captives and other oppressed people has been prohibited
by many prophetic traditions. Among these is what the author related from the Prophet:
“…by saying…”; that is to say, by the saying of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
as it was related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the authority of `Uqba ibn
`Aamir: “Not one of you is superior to another except by means of religion.” This
means that no single person among humanity is over another human by any priority right
(meeza), innate goodness (hassana) or merit (fadeela), except by his superiority in
religion. That is to say, that it is Islam which grants him pre-eminence. Inferred in this
prophetic tradition is the command to show kindness towards the weak and oppressed
(al-‘amr bi’l-lutf bi’d-du`afa) and to lower the wing of mercy towards them. In it also is
the prohibition of showing contempt towards people and elevating oneself over them.
The meaning of his words: “He used to also say…”; is that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬also used to say, as a corroboration (ta’yeedan) and verification
(ithbaatan) of the previous prophetic tradition; as it was related by Ahmad on the
authority of Abu Dharr in a divergent phrasing: “You are not superior to the red nor
the black, except by your superiority over them by fearful awareness of Allah. Allah
says: ‘The most noble of you with Allah is the one who is most fearfully aware’.” I
have not discovered this particular wording of the prophetic tradition in any of the books
of traditions. As for the wording of the Abu Dharr of this prophetic tradition which I
found, he upon him be peace said: “Consider this, that you are not better than any red or
black person, except if you are superior to them by fearful awareness of Allah.” This
means that you should reflect upon what I say, which is that you are not better than
anyone among humanity, be they white or black except if you are superior to them by
religion and Islam. This is because the pivot of superiority (midaar’l-fadeela) among the
children of Adam revolves around fearful awareness (taqwaa).
The people of Qur’anic exegesis differ regarding the causative factor (sabab’n-
nuzuul) behind the descent of this verse. Az-Zuhri said that this verse was revealed
regarding the Banu Bayaada when they said to the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬:
“Will you marry our daughters to our freedmen?!” Then Allah ta`ala revealed: “O
mankind We have created you from a single male and female, and We made you into
nations and ethnicities so that you may know one another and that the most noble of you
with Allah is the one most fearfully aware.” It is said that this verse was revealed
regarding Thaabit ibn Qays when he said to a man who failed to make room for him in
one of the assemblies: “O son of so-and-so!” Then the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Who is the one who mentioned ‘so-and-so’?” Thaabit said: “It was me O Messenger of
Allah.” The Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬then said: “Look closely at the faces of the people.”
He then looked at them. He then said: “What do you see?” He said: “I see whites, blacks
and reds.” He said: “Then indeed, you are not superior to any of them except by means of
fearful awareness.” It was then that this particular verse was revealed. It is said that it was
revealed regarding some people who became angry as a result of the spiritual master Bilal
ibn Rabaah climbing atop the Ka`ba on the day of the conquest of Mecca in order to call
humanity to Allah ‘izza wa jalla. It is said that there were other causative factors for the
descent of this verse.
The bottom line is that the words of Allah ta`ala: “…the most noble of you with
Allah is the one most fearfully aware”, is a pre-emption of the people from boasting over
their lineage (tafaakhir bi’ll-‘ansaab), hoarding of wealth (takaathur bi’l-amwaal), and
humiliating the poor and destitute (izdiraa’a bi’l-fuqaraa’ wa’l-masaakeen). The
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Whoever desires to be the most noble of
mankind, then let him have fearful awarness of Allah.” Mujaahid said regarding the
meaning of the above Qur’anic verse: “The most noble of humanity with their Lord are
those who are most rigorous in their fearful awarness of Him by performing His
obligations and avoding His disobedience. You are not greater than the people by your
house or by the great number of your relatives.” In the narration of al-Bayhaqi going back
to the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬who said during the Farewell Pilgrimage: “O
mankind, indeed your Lord is One and your father is one. There is no innate superiority
to the Arab over the non-Arab; or to the non-Arab over the Arab or to the red over the
black or to the black over the red; except by means of fearful awareness: ‘The most noble
of you with Allah is the one most fearfully aware’.”
Thus, it is obligatory upon us not to denigrate a Muslim, be he virtuous or sinful;
regardless of what level of sin he reaches, because of our ignorance of the ultimate
circumstances of his final ending. Therefore, when we command and prohibit others, it is
essential that we do so with compassion and mercy without seeking to belittle and
scrutinize people. Essentially, the affair is just as the brother of the author, Shehu Uthman
ibn Fuduye` said in his Ihya’s-Sunna: “It is not lawful for you from any perspective to
hate the sinful from the people of Laa ilaha illa Allah, not to speak of hating the
righteous among them. Rather, you should hate their sins and love them for their Islam,
since their sins do not remove them from the sphere of Laa ilaha illa Allah. This is
because they possess a general protective friendship from Allah. Thus, they are the
awliyya of Allah, and if they were to err or come with errors as massive as the earth; and
they had not associated partners with Allah; then Allah would encounter them with its
likeness in forgivenss. The one who has his friendship with God firmly established for
him, it is then sacrosanct to make war with him. Whoever attempts war with him has
attempted to make war with God. Whoever attempts war with God, then He has already
mentioned what his recompense will be in this world and the Hereafter. Whoever has not
been exposed by Allah as His enemy; then by Allah, do not take him as an enemy. The
least of your states when you are ignorant of a man’s circumstances is to be thoughtful
and cautious regarding his affair.”
Perhaps a sinful person or reprobate is in a better circumstance than ours.
Therefore, how can we denigrate a person, when our own circumstances and status is
more immoral and malevolent than his? It is for this reason that the Messenger of Allah,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “The best action and there is no action superior to it, is having a
good opinion of Allah and having a good opinion of His servants.” It has been related by
Muslim and others on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “The Muslim is the brother to a Muslim. He should not oppress him,
abandon him or denigrate him. Genuine fearful awareness is here. Genuine fearful
awareness is here. Genuine fearful awareness is here.” He said it three times and each
time he pointed to his breast. He then said: “Enough as a sign that a person has attained
evil is his denigration of his brother Muslim. The blood, honor and wealth of every
Muslim with regard to every other Muslim are sacrosanct.” This means that it is not
lawful to denounce him, belittle him, humiliate him, consider him insignificant, or show
contempt for him in any manner. Allah ta`ala says: “Let not one people look down on
another people perchance they may be better than they.” Shaykh Mulay at-Tihami ibn
Sayyid Muhammad ibn Abdallah as-Shareef, may Allah be merciful to him said in poetic
verse:
“When one is belittled disparingly, perhaps he is a person of high esteem
Though he looks like a denigrated person to the ignorant onlooker
For even the immense stars sitting in the height of their stations
Seem as if they are minute, when in reality they are not small at all.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to prohibit people…”; that
is to say that forbad his Companions, Umma and all of mankind: “…from having envy
for someone”; because envy is among the destructive traits which are forbidden to
behave with. The etymology of the expression ‘hasad’ (envy) is from the verb
‘hasadahu’ (to envy) and ‘yahsudahu hasdan’ (he envied him invidiously), when a
person wishes that a blessing and favor leave another or he wishes that blessings be
completely stripped from him. Allah ta`ala says: “Will they envy the people for what
Allah has provide for them from His bounty?”
His words, may He be exalted: “Will they envy the people…”; means i.e. will they
envy the Prophet Muhammad, ‫ ;صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬or he and his Companions; or the Arabs or
all people in general. This is because whoever envies the Prophet due to his prophethood,
it is as though he envies all mankind. This is the most malevolent kind of depravity. The
meaning of the words of Allah ta`ala: “…for what Allah has provide for them from His
bounty”; i.e. from prophethood, multiple women, victory, persistence, and the
predominating honor granted day after day; or it means for placing the promised prophet
among them. Thus, it means that they hoped that these blessings would be removed from
them. Allah ta`ala says: “Do not covet the favors which Allah has given to some of you
over others.” This means that you should not envy them for that. It has been related by
Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said:
“Beware of envy because envy devours good deeds the way a fire devours dry wood.”
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his Umdat’l-
Bayaan: “The reality of envy is wanting blessings to depart from the one who has
received it. There are four levels of envy: [1] He wants the blessings to leave the one
who has received it and does not want the blessing to return to him. [2] He wants the
blessing to leave him and he desires the very same blessing for himself in the same way
he desires a fine house, a beautiful woman, or a lofty, wide zawiyya which someone else
has obtained. [3] He does not desire the blessings itself, but he desires its like for
himself. If he cannot have its like, he then desires it to leave the person who has it so that
the contrast between them is not so apparent. [4] He desires its like for himself. If he
cannot obtain it, he nevertheless does not want it to depart from the person who has it.
This last level of envy is excused if it is about a blessing of this world, and it is highly
recommended if it is about a blessing from the deen.”
The author, Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in
his Diya `Uluum’d-Deen: “Envy is one of the branches of malice (hiqd) whose branches
are enumerous. It is the dislike of blessings and the desire that blessings be removed from
the one who has received them. Its causes are: [1] enmity; [2] self aggrandizement; [3]
arrogance; [4] conceit; [5] fear of the forfeiting of one’s objectives; [6] love of leadership
and its trappings. It entails the disliking of blessings befalling others so that they cannot
arrogate themselves over him due to these blessings. This is what is meant by self
aggrandizement. Or it ensues from the fear that through the blessings people may attain
they will be enabled to compete with him for his interest. It is for this reason that envy
becomes affixed between similar people, close friends, brothers, and close relatives, since
the causes of envy is strengthened between them due to their mutual desire for the same
interests. Consequently, when one of them is left behind by his companion in some
mutually aimed for objective, he avoids him, dislikes him and envy towards him becomes
firmly established in his heart. He then desires to denigrate him, act arrogantly towards
him and he hates that the blessings which would afford him to reach his objectives be
realized. The cure for envy is to recognize that it is harmful to him in his religion and
worldly life. Envy does not in any way harm the one who is envied, either in his worldly
life or religion. On the contrary the person who is envied benefits in his worldly and
religious life due to being envied. Once you realize this, you are able to abandon envy all
together and behave with the person who is envied in an opposite manner from which
envy induces you to behave; such as praising him, being humble towards him, and
proffering excuses for him. It is necessary for him then, to make his heart decent and
there ensues from the heart the kind of attitude which completely prevents envy. In
addition, he should beware of the words of Satan: ‘If you were to be humble towards him,
it would cause you to be impotent and hypocritical and that is nothing but humiliation
and degradation.’ This is a lie from Satan. On the contrary acting amiably towards others
is what breaks the enmity between people. It returns the heart towards genuine affection,
and you can be relieved from the sickness of envy and the affliction of mutual rancor.
This is the cure for envy and it is an extremely beneficial medicine, but it is bitter. May
Allah make the medicine easy for us by means of His benevolence and munificence.”
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` as well, mentioned in his `Umdat’l-Bayaan regarding
the cure for the sickness of envy: “…the cure is divided into two segments: a knowledge-
cure and an action-cure. As for the knowledge-cure, it is that he truly realizes that envy is
harmful to him, both in his deen and in this world. There is no harm for the one who is
envied, either in this world or in his deen. On the contrary, the envied person profits
from the envier’s envy in the deen and in this world. When he recognizes this with his
inner eye - that he is only an enemy to himself and a friend to his enemy - then he will
inevitably part company with envy. This is the knowledge-cure. As for the action-cure is
concerned, he must make himself do the opposite of what envy calls him to do. If it
incites him to slander and defamation, he must entrust his tongue with praising and
commending the one envied. If it makes him arrogant, he must humble himself. If it
provokes him to withhold blessings, he must make himself increase blessings. This is the
action-cure.”
Thus, the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace
prohibited us from envy because it is harmful to us in this life and the Hereafter. Shaykh
al-Khadim Ahmadu Bamba al-Baka’iy, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in his
Masaalik al-Janaan:
“For the envious will never be able to benefit
From the blessings given to his contemporaries by mimicking
And nothing will make him happy throughout time
Other than the envied person’s immediate destruction
May Allah protect us from the envy of the envious
 And from every hater and everyone possessed by ingratitude.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that: “He used to command people…”; i.e.
he ordered his Companions and Umma with an obligatory command: “…to have natural
humility towards a believer…”; because humility is among the redemptive traits which
are incumbent to behave with as the authored cited previously that the Messenger of
Allah, upon him be peace was the most diligent of people in humility. The expression
‘tawaadu`u’ with the letter daad inflected with damma means to openly demonstrate
humbleness (idhhar annahu wadee`u) towards others. Thus humility means self-
abasement (tadhallul) where the humility of a man is his being humble and submissive
(dhillahu) towards others. Thus, it is the opposite of arrogance (takabbir). Allah ta`ala
says: “I will turn away from My signs”; i.e. I will them turn away from comprehenmding
(fahim) and believing (tasdeeq) in My signs; or it means I will turn them away from
being attentive (tadabbir) of My signs: “…those who are arrogant in the earth without
right.” This is because the only one who has the right to arrogance (kibriyaa’) is Allah.
The ‘signs’ referred to in this verse is the revealed book (kitaab manzil); or it refers to the
evidences which prove His Oneness and gnosis. Thus His turning them away from them
(sarfuhum `anhaa) is punishment for their arrogance; or what is meant by this is His
turning them away from being able to invalidate them (ibtaalihaa) and make strenuous
effort in judgment (ijtahiduu); like the strenuous effort made by Pharoah in trying to
invalidate the miracles of Musa. Thus, this verse is a divine promise to the Banu Isra’il
that they will attain divine assistance against everyone who attempts to invalidate the true
religion. Or the verse means: ‘I will turn them away from having direct gnosis (ma`arifa)
of Me and from being spiritually unveiled (mukaashifa) to My reality.
It has been related by Ibn Maja and others on the authority of Abu Musa al-
‘Ash`ari that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Whoever shows
humility to Allah in one rank, Allah will elevate him a rank until He eventually places
him among the most exalted assemblies (`iliyyeen). Whoever shows arrogance towards
Allah in one rank, Allah will debase him a rank until He eventually places him among the
lowest of the low.”
The author, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in his Diya’ Uluum’d-Deen:
“Humilty to Allah and the rest of creation through deeds is to be always persistant in
showing the traits of humbleness. Humility is in three degrees: [1] that which is the
praiseworthy golden mean (`adl mahmuud); [2] that which is inexcessive (ifraat) which is
arrogance (takabbir); and [3] that which is excessive (tafreet) which is abject humiliation
(mudhilla). The latter two are blameworthy (madhmuumaan). Thus, whoever seeks to
take precedence over others like himself is an arrogant person; and whoever seeks to
place himself behind others like himself is truly humble. Whoever shows humility
towards those who are innately lower than them, like a scholar whom a business man
visits and the scholar stands for him and sits him with honor in his assembly; then this
scholar has humiliated himself. However, if the business man were to do the same to the
scholar, then he would be showing genuine humility. A person who is genuinely humble,
it is incumbent upon him to give every possessor of a right his due rights. Thus the
humility which is due a business man is being joyful with him, expressing gentleness in
speech and not seeing himself as if he were better than him.”
 It has been related by al-Kharaa’ti in his Mukaarim’l-Akhlaaq on the authority of
Ibn Abass that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “When a servant is
humble, Allah will elevate him to the seventh heaven.” This means that Allah will raise
him to the highest spiritual ranks in this world’s life and grant him the most exalted
spiritual unveilings in this life and the Hereafter. Thus, whoever shows humility for the
sake of Allah ta`ala, He will elevate him due to the extent of his humility until he
eventually becomes a spiritual master in the sight of Allah ta`ala. It is for this reason that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said as it was related by Abu Nu`aym on the
authority of Anas ibn Malik: “The master of the people is their servant.” Thus, he
becomes their spiritual master due to his behaving with them with the courtesies of a
parent towards its child. For, the parent is the foremost master after the mastership of the
Lord of majesty. The humbleness that a parent shows to its offspring, or the humbleness
that a chieftain shows to those under his charge is called lowering the wing of humility
(layyin’l-jaanib). It is for this reason that the author, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him
specified mentioning humility with the prerequisite of it being shown solely towards
believers. This is because it is not lawful to show humility towards those who are
arrogant among the sinful, the disbelievers and the people of whims among the heretical
innovators.
This was explicitly clarified by the blood brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` in his Bayaan Wujuub’l-Hijra `Ala’l-`Ibaad where he said: “Realize that the
concept of ‘lowering the wing of humility’ (layyin’l-jaanib) which is known as humility
(tawaadu`u) is divided into three divisions: [1] that which is obligatory (waajib), like
showing humility to Allah, His messenger, a Muslim governor, a scholar and to parents;
[2] that which is forbidden (haraam), like showing humility to the people of oppression
(ahl’d-dhullum), disbelievers, (and in some manuscripts he added) the sinful, because
showing humility to these is an humiliation in which there is no honor (ad-dhillu laa
`izzun ma`ahu) and a lowering in which there is no elevation with it (al-khissa allaty laa
rif`atan ma`ahu). And finally, [3] that which is commendable (manduub), like showing
humility to the servants of Allah, other than those mentioned.”
These words by the Shehu are invaluable in these times of ours where we openly
witness those associated with knowledge and fearful awarness of Allah, befriending the
rulers of the disbelievers, oppressors and wealthy, being desirous for rank, position and
wealth. You see them having enmity towards the believers, the oppressed and the poor
with disdain. This is an immense injustice because by their actions they place a thing in
other than its rightful place. They act contrary to the traits of the true believers as Allah
ta`ala describes them: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, and those with him are
severe against the disbelievers and compassionate with one another.” The venial
scholars, in contrast, are severe against the believers and compassionate towards the
disbelievers by assisting them against the believers. They name their error ‘a social
contract’ (mu`aahida), ‘an armistice’ (muhaadina) and ‘a truce’ (sulhi); and make
domestic colonization (ad-dujaana) lawful and the autonomy of Muslims forbidden.
The Chief Justice of Yola, Modibo Abdullahi ibn Muhammad Bellel al-Yoli at-
Turudi said in his Risaala wa Naseeha: “Al-Ubbay` said in his commentary upon Saheeh
of Muslim: ‘Some of the benefits of the brilliant treaty that occurred at al-Hudaybiya was
the conquering of Mecca and the making of its people Muslim. For the people entered
into the religion in large numbers because of it. For when the treaty occurred, some of the
people began to fraternize with one another. And some of the people of Mecca visited the
Prophet, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, and entered Medina. The Muslims, in turn, went to Mecca
and the people heard from them of the reputation of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫وسلم‬. As a result, they came to know, in detail, about some of his apparent miracles, the
signs of his prophethood, and the perfection of his character. They also witnessed some
of this themselves and their hearts became full with faith (al-Iman) and they believed. So
what can be greater than this benefit; which are the growth of Islam by strength and in
number and the subsiding of disbelief and its decline until, eventually, falsehood
perishes?’ However, if the terms of truce (al-muhadinah) results in the opposite of the
above, then no one among the scholars said that it was permitted. Like the terms of truce
with the Christians in these times. This is because their offer of terms of truce will only
amount to promote the diminishing of al-Islam and its people; which is the necessary
result of the Christian Europeans entering among the people of Islam. This will result in
the Muslims being stamped with their destructive characteristics and blameworthy
customs and the Muslims will eventually imitate the Europeans illicit way of life. This
will go on until the weak hearted ones among the Muslims grow fond of their customs
and become laden with corruption. Eventually, the youth will mature molded in the
pattern of the European way of life. The women and children will become fascinated by
them and began to dress themselves with their adornment until when the amply honored
Sunna of the Prophet perishes and pitch black innovation (bid`a) is revived. This state of
affairs will continue until their European way of life prevails and spreads. Thus, the
Muslims become humiliated because of their entering under the domination of the
Christians. ‘Indeed, we belong to Allah and to Him is our final return’.”
Thus, showing humility in this circumstance is blameworthy. Rather, it is the
causative factor for every kind of disintegration (khusr), affliction (balaa’) and
destructive tendency (kheem muhlik). It is the key to every kind of misfortune (niqma)
and severe punishment (`adhaab ‘aleem); as our master the learned Ahmad Baba ibn
Ahmad at-Tinbukti, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him explained with the best
elucidation in his Jalib’n-Ni`ma wa Daf`u’n-Niqma Bi Mujaaniba’l-Wulaat’d-Dhulama
extracted from the verses of the Mighty Book, the pure Sunna, from what was transmitted
by the righteous ancestors and the teachings of the experienced wisemen.
In its introduction Shaykh Ahmadu Baba said: “I have collected in this extract
what has been made easy by the help of Allah and His power what has been transmitted
regarding avoiding being in close association with oppressors and keeping their company,
avoiding chasing after them and seeking their protective friendship; desiring by means of
that the transcedent rubble of this world’s life and its low despicable pleasures.” Whoever
desires to know the reality of the circumstances of those venial scholars in these times
that humiliate themselves to the oppressors and disbelieving rulers and have taken them
as protecting friends should resort back to that work.
For, being humble to the disbeliever, the corrupt and rhe sinful is injustice
because it is placing a thing in other than its rightful place. While being arrogant towards
the believer, be they noble or plebian, is an immense sin and the key to every kind of evil.
It is for this reason that the Messenger of Allah, ordered us to be humble towards the
believers. Allah ta`ala says: “…and lower your wing of humility to the belivers”; which
means to show humility towards them. The chosen Prophet, upon him be peace said: “No
one shows humility for the sake of Allah except that Allah elevates him.” Shaykh Abu
`Isa, Musa ibn Ali ibn Musa al-Khatli, may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him said in poetic
verse:
“Be humble and you will be like the star beholding to the onlooker
Reflected on the low surface of water; yet, in reality, it is highly elevated
And do not be like smoke which rises and elevates itself
Into the high hierarchies of the air; yet, in reality, it is low in estimation.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…guiding those who are blind…”; that is to say,
those who are sensory blind and those who are blind mentally. For, the expression ‘qawd’
(guiding) is from the verb ‘qaada’ (he led by means of a halter), hence: ‘yaquudu
qawdan’ (he steered him tractably); he is therefore a ‘qiyaada’ (a natural leader/skilled
commander). The expression ‘`umyaan’ (those who are blind) is plural for ‘`amiyy’ (the
blind), meaning those who have been deprived of sight (faaqid’l-basr). Thus, the author
meant that the Messenger of Allah, upon him be blessings and peace commanded his
Companions, his Umma and all of humanity to always guide those who are blind and
offer them all assistance. Or it means to walk with the blind in order to help them avoid
anything that could harm them.
It has been related by ad-Daylami on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Whoever walks with the blind, allowing him
to lean on him and directs him correctly, he will have with God for every cubit in every
mile the reward of manumitting the enslaved. So, when you guide the blind, let his left
hand take hold of your right arm. This behavior is a kind of charity.” This means that
guiding the blind in the manner described is a kind of alms of the bodily limbs
(sadaqat’l-jawaarih). It says in a prophetic tradition related by ad-Daylami and at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Wahshi ibn Harb al-Habashi: “Guide the blind”; because
for the one who has no wealth doing so is like giving alms.
It has been related in an extensive prophetic tradition related by Ahmad, an-
Nisaai’ and others on the authority of Abu Dharr that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “On every soul in each day that the sun rises, there is an act of charity
demanded of him against his own soul.” I then said: “O Messenger of Allah, from where
can I give charity, when we have no wealth?” He said: “This is because among the many
gates of charity are: chanting Allahu akbar (God is greatest); subhaana Allah; (Glory to
God); al-hamdulillahi (all praises are due to God); laa ilaha illa Allah (there is no deity
except God); astaghfir Allaha” (I seek the forgiveness of God); the commanding of good;
the prohibiting of evil; the removing of harmful thorns, bones and stones from the path of
the people; and the guiding of the blind.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…showing love for the poor and destitute; to
accustom themselves to sitting in their assemblies…” as it was related by al-Haakim in
his al-Mustadrak on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا‬
‫ عليه وسلم‬said: “Love the poor and sit in their company.” In the narration of ad-Daylami on
the authority of Anas ibn Malik, he upon him be peace said: “Sitting in the company of
the poor is a part of humilty. It is from the most superior kind of jihad.” In the narration
of Ibn Bilal on the authority of Abdallah ibn Umar, that he upon him be peace said: “For
everything there is a key, and the key to the Garden is having genuine love for the
destitute and the poor.” Thus, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered us to love
the poor and destitute because they are the majority of the people of the Garden; they are
the close friends of Allah, and the people of His pleasure; as it was transmitted in many
prophetic traditions.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…expending finances in benevolent causes…”;
that is to say, in the Way of Allah following the words of Allah ta`ala: “Expend in the
Way of Allah, and do not allow your own hands to lead you to destruction”; and by His
words: “Expend from what We have provided for you before before death comes to one of
you”; and by His words: “O you who believe, expend from the goodly wealth that you
have earned, and from what We have taken from the earth.”
For, the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬ordered Muslims in many prophetic
traditions to expend their wealth in the Way of Allah and in excellent endeavors. Among
them is what was narrated by at-Tabaraani on the authority of Asma’ bint Abu Bakr that
the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Give donations, expend wealth and
grant small gifts. Do not reckon other people’s faults or you will be reckoned. Do not tie
the knot of discord or it wil be tied against you.”
The meaning of the words of the author, may Allah be merciful to him: “…in
benevolent causes” (fee wujuuh’l-khayr) is to expend wealth in the Way of Allah in order
to elevate the Word of Allah in the earth; either in the directions of military struggle, or in
order to correct the religious and worldly affairs of the people; like their places of
worship, their roads, their market places, their water supply and other than these from
those things which are essential in establishing their religion and worldly affairs.
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…feeding meals to others…”; because this is a
part of the best Islam as it was related by Ahmad, al-Bukhari, Abu Dawud, an-Nisaai’
and others on the authority of Abdallah ibn `Amr who said: “Once a man asked the
Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Which Islam is better?” He said: “Your feeding
food to others, and giving the greetings of peace to those you know and to those you do
not know.” The feeding of food to others is considered to be the best Islam for what is in
it of fulfilling the needs of the poor and destitute, as well as honoring the guests. He also
said in a prophetic tradition transmitted by Ahmad and Abu Dawud on the authority of
Abu Sa`id al-Khudri: “Whatever Muslim feeds food to another Muslim who is hungry,
Allah will feed him on the Day of Judgment from the fruits of the Garden.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…giving drink to those who need it…”; because it
is considered the most superior form of charity (afdal’s-sadaqa) as it was related in many
prophetic traditions. Among them being what was transmitted by an-Nisaai’ on the
authority of Sa`d ibn `Ubaada who said: “I once said: ‘O Messenger of Allah, my mother
has died, can I then give charity in her name’?” He said: “Yes.” I then said: “Which form
of charity is the most superior?” He said: “Giving water to drink.” In the narration of Abu
Dawud on the authority of Sa`d as well, who asked: “Which form of charity is the most
remarkable to you?” He upon him be peace said: “Water.” This means that giving water
to drink is the most remarkable manner of alms giving. In the narration of Ahmad and
others on the authority of Ibn Abass, he upon him be peace said: “The most superior form
of charity is giving water to drink.” He also said in a prophetic tradition related by
Ahmad and Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Sa`id al-Khudri: “Whichever Muslim
gives drink to another Muslim who is thirsty, Allah ta`ala will give him to drink on the
Day of Judgment from the exquisite wine of Paradise.”
In a prophetic tradition considered disavowed (munkar) by way of al-Khateeb on
the authority of Anas ibn Malik, he upon him be peace is alleged to have said: “Whoever
gives water to drink in a place where water is available will have for each person who
drinks, be they virtuous or sinful, ten good deeds written for him, he will be elevated ten
spiritual ranks, and he will have ten sins removed from him. If a thirsty person drinks
from him, it will be as if he manumitted a person from enslavement. If a thirsty person
who was close to death drinks from him, it will be as if he manumitted sixty souls from
enslavement. Whoever gives water to drink in a place where water is unavailable, it will
be as if he had given life to all humanity.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…being grateful for acts of kindness even if it is
something insignificant, and sufficing for it…”; that is to say being grateful to the doer
of acts of excellence and kindness (as-shukr `ala faa`il’l-ma`ruuf wa’l-khayr), regardless
whether his actions or act of benevolence is small and insignificant. Sufficing for acts of
kindness is a form of showing gratitude for it. Showing gratitude to people for their
kindness is a part of showing gratitude to Allah because they are the means by which a
blessing from Allah was able to reach him.
It has been related by Ahmad on the authority of al-‘Ash`ath ibn Qays and at-
Tabaraani on the authority of Abdallah ibn Mas`ud, both who said that the Messenger of
Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said; “The most grateful of people to Allah, are those who are most
grateful to people.” This also means their being grateful towards parents, teachers and
every person who is a causative factor for good reaching him. Ibn `Ata’illah said in his
al-Hikam: “Whoever is not grateful for blessings has guaranteed that it will be forfeited.
Whoever is grateful for them has tied them down by their cord.”
It has been related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the authority of an-
Nu`maan ibn Bashir that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Speaking about
the blessings of Allah is a form of gratitude, while abandoning speaking about it is a form
of denial of blessings. Whoever is not grateful for little blessings will not be grateful for
immense blessings. Whoever is not grateful to people is not grateful to Allah. In the
jama`at there is baraka, while in disunity there is punishment.” In a narration of al-
Khateeb and Ibn `Asaakir on the authority of Ibn Abass, he upon him be peace said:
“Whoever is not thankful to people is not thankful to Allah `izza wa jalla. Whoever is not
thankful for little blessings will not be thankful for immense blessings.” This means that
small insignificant blessings become immense blessings by means of showing gratitude
for them. Allah ta`ala says: “If you are grateful, We will increase you.” It has been related
in a narration of Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Hurayra that he upon him be peace
said: “He is not thankful to Allah who does not show his thanks to people.” In the
narration of at-Tirmidhi, he upon him be peace said: “Whoever does not thank people is
not thankful to Allah.”
Al-Khattabi said: “The interpolation of this prophetic tradition is in two
perspectives. The first is that whoever has as his nature and custom to denie the blessings
people give him, and he avoids showing gratituide for their acts of kindness to him, then
it is also his custom to denie the blessings of Allah ta`ala and he abandons showing
gratitude to Allah. The second perspective is that Allah subhaanahu does not accept the
gratitude of the servant for His generosity towards him, if the servant does not show
gratitude to people, and denies their acts of kindness” One of the awliyya once said:
“Gratitude (shukr) is in three perspectives: [1] the gratitude of the heart, which comprise
of first recognizing that all blessings are from Allah ta`ala; [2] the gratitude of the tongue,
which comprise extolling Allah, much praise of Allah and commendation of Him. Also, a
part of the gratitude of the tongue is being thankful for the medium by commending them
and making supplication for them; [3] the gratitude of the remainder of the limbs by
following the commands of Allah, and avoiding His prohibitions.”
Among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be peace in guiding
creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his Companions, his
Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…having austerity from this world’s life…”;
because by means of austerity a person is able to attain the love of Allah and the love of
humanity. It has been related by Ibn Maja on the authority of Sahl ibn Sa`d that the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “Be austere in this world’s life and Allah
will love you. Be austere in what is in the possession of the people and people will love
you.” By means of austerity the heart becomes tranquil (istiraah’l-qalb) from everything
besides Allah ta`ala. It has been related by al-Bayhaqi in his Shu`b’l-Imaan on the
authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said:
“Austerity in this world’s life brings rest to the heart and the body; while being desirous
for this world’s life exhausts the heart and the body.”
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his `Umdat’l-
Bayaan: “The reality of austerity (zuhd) in this world is avoiding the forbidden (haraam),
the dubious (shubhat) and the superfluous in permitted things (al-fuduul min 'l-halaal)
out of desire for the blessings of the Hereafter and its exalted ranks. That which will
assists you in that is to remember the temporal nature of this world and that it is the
enemy of Allah and you are His lover. Whoever loves someone hates his enemy.”
However, one should beware of being austere with the bodily limbs while being
desirous of the world with the heart. The author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` said in
his Diya `Uluum’d-Deen: “Among humanity are those who are austere from wealth, fine
clothing, luxuriant food, and is content with little of it; while at the same time they are
covetous for leadership and worldly rank. They have thus abandoned the least of the two
contemptible things and opened the door to the most immense of the two destructive
things. Taking wealth is nearer to safety than taking rank.”
“And” finally among the character traits of the chosen one, upon him be
peace in guiding creation to the Way of right consciousness is that he commanded his
Companions, his Umma, but rather all of mankind in: “…removing harmful things
from the roads of the Muslims…”; that is to say, removing anything which can cause
harm to people from the roads like stones, clumps of earth, thorns and its like. It has been
related by al-Bukhari in his al-‘Adab’l-Mufrad on the authority of Abu Barza al-Aslami
that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: “Remove harm from the roads, for
indeed it is a form of charity.” This means that a person is able to give alms by means of
that and he attains the recompense from Allah of a person who has given in charity.
It has been related by at-Tirmidhi on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said: “There was once a man walking in the street, who
came upon a sharp thorn that he moved from the road. Allah then showed His gratitude to
him for that by forgiving him.” This means that Allah ta`ala was pleased with his deed of
removing harm from the road. He thus accepted this good deed from him. In a prophetic
tradition related by Muslim on the authority of Abu Dharr, that he upon him be peace
said: “I was shown the good deeds and evil deeds of my Umma, and I saw that the best of
their good deeds was removing harmful things from the roads.” Shaykh Abdullahi ibn
Fuduye` cited this in the end because it is considered the least trait of true faith (adnaa
shu`b’l-imaan), as it will be mentioned in the forthcoming prophetic tradition.
For, the Messenger of Allah, upon him be peace ordered his Companions, his
Umma and all humanity to have natural humility towards a believer, guiding those who
are blind showing love for the poor and destitute; to accustom themselves to sitting in
their assemblies expending finances in benevolent causes feeding meals to others giving
drink to those who need it being grateful for acts of kindness, and sufficing for it having
austerity from this world’s life and removing harmful things from the roads of the
Muslims; because all of these traits are from the aspects of faith (shu`b ‘l-imaan); where
the meaning of faith (imaan) is acceptance of what the Messenger of Allah, may Allah
bless him and grant him peace came with out of necessity. The expression ‘shu`b’ (traits)
means the branches (furuu`) of faith. It is the plural of ‘shu`ba’ inflected with damma and
means the utmost end of the branches of the tree; or it is what is most immense or
greatest about a thing from the perspective of its apex and summit.
The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, ordered to
follow the branches of faith in order to take humanity, by the permission of Allah, from
the darkness of disbelief into the light of true faith. Allah ta`ala says: “There has come
from Allah a light and a Clear Book. Allah guides by him those who follow His pleasure,
the paths of peace; and he takes them out of darkness into the Light by His permission,
and guides them to the Straight Path.” Sultan Muhammad Bello ibn Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said in his Takhmees al-Burda as-Shareefa
“To the Prophet belong the instrumentality in truth; and he is its master
While the Prophets function as the convoy of his instrumentality
From him is taken the customs and illumination is its consequence
For, indeed, he is the sun of virtue and they are its stars
That manifests its light to humanity in darkness.”
The author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye`, may Allah be merciful to him said:
“He used to say regarding that…”; i.e. the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬used to
say as it was related by al-Bukhari, Muslim, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmidhi, an-Nisaai’, Ibn
Maja and others on the authority of Abu Hurarya: “True belief has seventy something
branches. The least of them is removing something harmful from the road, and the
highest of them is saying: ‘There is no deity except Allah, Muhammad is the
Messenger of Allah.” The author cited this prophetic tradition in order to prove that he
upon him be blessings and peace used to command humanity to remove harmful things
from the roads of the Muslims; as well as to clarify that the objective and pivot of this
book is to enumerate the traits of true faith, which are all the character traits of
prophethood.
In the narration related by al-Bukhari, he upon him be peace said: “True faith is
sixty something…”; where the expression ‘bid`un’ (something) means from one to nine.
It is said that it means from three to nine. It is said that it means from three to five. It is
said that it means from one to four. It is said that it means from four to nine. It is said that
it means seven. In the narration of Muslim on the authority of Suhayl he cited:
“…seventy something or sixty something”; indicating doubt on the part of Suhayl who
narrated the prophetic tradition. However, the soundest opinion is what the traditionist
Imam Abu Haatim ibn Hibban said that the number of the traits of faith are seventy-nine.
He said: “What is intended by the Prophet, may Allah bless him and granbt him peace in
making the traits of faith this particular number is that its amount is what is established in
the Book and the Sunna.” In the narration of at-Tirmidhi, the expression ‘baab’
(topics/issues) is substituted for the expression ‘shu`b’ (traits); which means qualities
(khasla) or parts (juz’). However, both expressions are one since they both mean ‘a
portion of a thing’ (qit`at min as-shay’).
The meaning of his words, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “…the least of them” (adnaa’haa) is
the nearest of them in station and the easiest of them in ability and rank. Its etymology is
from the word ‘dunwi’ (close) which means something near at hand or easily accessible
(qareeb). It is thus the opposite of something far or remote (bu`d). In the narration of an-
Nisaai’, he said: “…its lowest level” (awda`uhaa); which means that removing harmful
things from the road is the nearest of the traits of faith to perform and the easiest of them
to schieve. What is not intended by the use of the expression “…the least of them”
(adnaa’haa) is the least (aqalla) in the since of insignificance or denigration (haqeer)
because that which is small in the eyes of the people can be immense in the eyes of Allah
ta`ala. Allah ta`ala says: “You reckon it to be insignificant, but with Allah it is immense.”
It is in this light that ad-Daylami, Ibn ‘n-Najaar and Ibn Shaaheen transmitted on
the authority of Ali ibn Abi Talib that the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said:
“O Ali! Give the large eyed virgins of Paradise their dowry and wedding price!” I said:
“O Messenger of Allah, what is the dowry for the large eyed virgins of Paradise and what
is their wedding price?” He said: “Removing harm from the roads and extracting rubbish
from the mosque. That is the dowry of the large eyed virgins of Paradise, O Ali.”
Examine, dear reader, how the little good one does in removing harm from the roads
achieves for the servant abundant reward.
The meaning of ‘removing harmful things’ (‘imaatat’l-‘adhaa) is eliminating it
(‘izaalatahu), negating it (tanheetahu) and putting it far off (‘ib`aadahu). In the narration
of Muslim on the authority of Abu Baraza, he upon him be peace said: “…isolating
harmful things from the road of the Muslims.” Harmful things include everything which
could conceivably harm the people on their roads, such as stones upon which people can
stumble, sharp thorns, clumps of earth and dust from dust storms, defecation,
decomposing animals and the like.
The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “…the highest of them”
(‘arfa`uhaa) is the most superior of them, for indeed the words of the two testimonies is
the most superior and highest of the traits of faith as it was transmitted in the narration of
Muslim. In another narration of his, he upon him be peace said: “…the most superior of
them…” in place of “…the highest of them…” The meaning of his words, upon him be
peace: “…is saying: There is no deity except Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of
Allah”; is that the most elevated of the traits of faith is the verbal pronouncement of the
two testimonies of faith. I have not found these exact wordings in any of the sound
collections of prophetic traditions. The majority of the narrations restrict the wording to:
“…is saying: There is no deity except Allah”, only, leaving out the mentioning of
messengership. However, it is what is intended, like when you say: “I have read the al-
Hamd”; when you mean by that the entire chapter of al-Faatiha. Qadi ‘Iyad said: “The
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬informs us that the testimony of faith is the most superior portion
of the Divine Unity which is incumbent upon everyone. And that nothing from the
remaining traits of faith are valid except after the verification of this testimony. The least
of these traits is what dangers befall the Muslims by removing harmful things from their
roads. The remaining traits of faith which lie between these two paths are enumerous. If
the mujtahid were to take upon himself to achieve all of them through the strength of his
supposition and the rigor of his research, it would be possible. In fact, some of the
foregoing scholars did exactly that. Legally, it was this difficulty which the Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬intended when limiting it to mentioning the least and highest of the traits of
faith. Then, he upon him be peace, did not necessitate knowing all of these traits in detail,
nor does ignorance of them constitute a breech of sound faith; since the foundations of
faith (‘usuul’l-imaan) and their branches are well known and verified. Thus, genuine faith
being based upon that number is generally obligatory to believe in.”
The meaning of his words, upon him be peace: “…There is no deity except
Allah…” is there is no Creator, there is no Provider, and there is no Worshipped except
Him, the One who has no partner. The meaning of his words, upon him be peace:
“…Muhammad is the messenger of Allah”; is that he upon him be blessings and peace is
the slave of Allah and His messenger. As for his saying that the words of the two
testimonies is the highest of the traits of faith, there has been transmitted many prophetic
traditions regarding the superiority and bounty of these words. It has been related by al-
Bukhari on the authority of `Utbaan ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬said: “Indeed Allah has forbidden the Fire (meaning the Eternal Fire) from touching
the one who says: There is no deity except Allah, seeking by means of that the
Countenance of Allah.” This means that there is nothing in the heavens and earth which
is more important to Allah ta`ala than these noble words, i.e. the testimony of Divine
Unity. It is for this reason that these words have been made incumbent upon every person
at the beginning of his/her Islam, and at the approach of death. The words of the
testimony of Divine Unity is highly recommended for the common people and the
spiritually elite to recite throughout the lifetime in order to omit their sins, elevate their
spiritual ranks with Allah, and illuminate their hearts with His direct experiential gnosis.
The words of the testimony are what elevate the servants with their Lord on the Day of
Judgment.
It has ben related in a narration related on the authority of Anas ibn Malik that the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬once said to Mu`adh while Mu`adh was riding on the back of the
camel of the Messenger of Allah: “O Mu`adh ibn Jabal!” He responded three times: “At
your service O Messenger of Allah, and at your happiness.” He, the Messenger of Allah,
then said: “There is no one who testifies that there is no deity except Allah and that
Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, truthfully from his heart except that Allah forbids
him from the Fire.” This means that he is forbidden from being in the Fire eternally.
 In this prophetic tradition is caution against the testimony of the hypocrite which
emerges from his tongue without sincerity or true belief in his breast. The meaning of his
words, upon him be blessings and peace: “…from his heart…” is from the truthfulness of
his heart (min tasdeeq qalbihi). It is also conceivable that this expression is connected to
the word: ‘saadiqan’ (truthfully), which means that he testifies verbally while being
truthful and sincere in his heart. It is also conceivable that this expression is connected to
the word: “yashhadu” (testifies), which means that he testifies with his heart. However,
the first opinion is the foremost one. The meaning of his words, upon him be peace:
“…except that Allah forbids him from the Fire”; is decisive evidence with the people of
the Sunna that a cadre of the disobedient believers will be punished in Hell, then they will
be taken out of the Fire by means of the intercession (shafaa`a). It is for this reason that
the Prophet, or the narrators explained this statement with the additional words: “…that is
the Eternal Fire.”
The teachers of the science of spiritual purification (shuyuukh mutasawifuun) are
agreed that the saying of Laa ilaha illa Allah is the most superior of the paths to Allah
ta`ala and His direct experiential gnosis. The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn
Fuduye` said in his Silaasil’d-Dhahabiyya: “Realize that the foundation of initiative
instructions (talqeen) in this kalimat in the way in which we have indicated is in
accordance with what has been related by at-Tabaraani, al-Bazaari and others that the
Messenger of Allah ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, instructed (laqqana) his Companions in the kalimat
of Laa ilaha illa Allah, both in a group (jamaa`at) and individually (furaaday). As for
the instruction of the Companions in a group, Shadaad ibn Aws, may Allah be pleased
with him said: ‘We were once with the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬when he said: ‘Are there
any strangers among you?’ He meant by that the People of the Book. We then answered:
‘No O Messenger of Allah.’ He then ordered us to lock the door. He then said: ‘Raise
your hands and say - Laa ilaha illa Allah.’ We then raised our hands and said: ‘Laa
ilaha illa Allah’, for some time. Then the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘O
Allah, You sent me with this kalimat. You ordered me to adhere to it and You promised
me Paradise because of it. You do not go against Your promise.’ He, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬,
then said: ‘Will you all not rejoice! For Allah has forgiven you’.”
As for his instruction, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬, to his Companions individually, Ali ibn
Abi Taalib, may Allah be pleased with him said: ‘I once asked the Messenger of Allah,
may Allah bless him and grant him peace a question. I said: ‘O Messenger of Allah!
Guide me to the nearest path to Allah, the easiest path to His slaves and the best path with
Allah ta`ala?’ The Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘O Ali! It is a must that you
always be in the remembrance of Allah `azza wa jalla, secretly and openly (silently and
aloud).’ Ali, may Allah be pleased with him then said: ‘All the people do remembrance
of Allah. However, I want you to designate something specifically for me.’ Then the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘Pay attention Ali! The best of what I have said
and the Prophets before me is Laa ilaha illa Allah. If the seven heavens and the seven
earths were placed upon the scales and Laa ilaha illa Allah were placed upon the scales,
then the Laa ilaha illa Allah would outweigh them.’ Then the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬said: ‘O Ali! the Hour will not be established as long as there is someone upon
the earth who says Laa ilaha illa Allah!’ Ali, may Allah be pleased with him then said:
‘What is the methodology of saying it, O Messenger of Allah?' He, may Allah bless him
and grant hm peace said: ‘Close your eyes and listen to me say Laa ilaha illa Allah three
times. Then you say three times Laa ilaha illa Allah while I listen to you.' Then the
Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬raised his voice and said while his eyes were closed -
Laa ilaha illa Allah three times while Ali listened. Then Ali, may Allah be pleased with
him said while his eyes were closed - Laa ilaha illa Allah three times, while the Prophet,
‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬listened’. This is the foundation of the chain of authority of the People in
the initiative instructions of the kalimat 's-shahaada.” It is for this reason that the
meaning of his words, upon him be blessings and peace, that the statement of Laa ilaha
illa Allah Muhammadur rasuulullah is the highest and most superior of the traits of
faith, is that it is the easiest and most accessible Path to Allah ta`ala and His direct gnosis.
As for our chain of authority (sanad) regarding the instruction and initiation in
this noble word based upon the above-mentioned path; it is that Ali ibn Abi Talib, may
Allah ta`ala be pleased with him instructed al-Hassan 'l-Basri. Al-Hassan 'l-Basri
instructed Habib al-`Ajami. Habib al-`Ajami instructed Dawuud 't-Taa'i. Dawuud at-
Taa’I instructed Ma`ruuf 'l-Karkhi. Ma`ruuf al-Karkhi instructed Sariyya 's-Saqti.
Saariyya 's-Saqti instructed Abu 'l-Qaasim 'l-Junayd 'l-Baghdadi, who was the Imam
of the circle of the Sufis. To him has been attributed the majority of their chains of
authority (asaaneed).
Al-Junayd al-Baghdadi instructed Abu Bakr as-Shibli. Abu Bakr as-Shibli
instructed Abd’r-Rahman at-Tamimi. Abd’r-Rahman at-Tamimi instructed Abu’l-
Faraj at-Tartusi. Abu’l-Faraj at-Tartusi instructed Abu’l-Hassan al-Hakaari. Abu’l-
Hassan al-Hakaari instructed Abu Sa`id al-Mubarak al-Muhrami. Abu Sa`id al-
Mubarak al-Muhrami instructed the sultan of the awliyya, Muhy’d-Deen Abd’l-Qaadir
al-Jaylani.
Our spiritual master, Muhy’d-Deen Abd’l-Qaadir al-Jaylani instructed his son
Shaykh Abd’r-Razaaq. Shaykh Abd’r-Razaaq instructed his son Shaykh Ahmad.
Shaykh Ahmad instructed his son Shaykh Ali. Shaykh Ali instructed his son Shaykh
Rajab. Shaykh Rajab instructed his son Shaykh Ali. Shaykh Ali instructed his son
Shaykh Muhammad. Shaykh Muhammad instructed his son Shaykh Faraj Allah.
Shaykh Faraj Allah instructed his son Shaykh Mahmud. Shaykh Mahmud instructed his
son Shaykh Abd’r-Razaaq. Shaykh Abd’r-Razaaq instructed his son Shaykh Abd’l-
Qaadir. Shaykh Abd’l-Qaadir instructed his son Shaykh Faraj Allah. Shaykh Faraj
Allah instructed his son Shaykh Ali.
Shaykh Ali ibn Faraj Allah instructed his brother Shaykh Faydullah. Shaykh
Faydullah instructed his nephew Shaykh Mahmud ibn Ali, Shaykh Mahmud ibn Ali
instructed his brother Shaykh al-Hajj Ali ibn Ali. Shaykh al-Haj Ali ibn Ali instructed
his cousin Shaykh Abd’r-Rahman ibn Faydullah. Shaykh Abd’r-Rahman ibn Faydullah
instructed Shaykh Ali al-Hajj al-Maghribi. He in turn instructed the light of the age, the
renewer of the religion, the Imam of the awliyya, the Sword of Truth, our master Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah engulf him in His mercy.
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` in turn instructed the Imam and Khateeb Shaykh Ali
ibn Abu Bakr. He in turn instructed Shaykh Musa al-Muhaajir Mallami. He in turn
instructed Shaykh Adam Kari`angha ibn Muhammad Tukur. He in turn instructed his
son, the Khateeb and jurist, my support, my lamp, my spiritual coach and spiritual
master, Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin ibn Adam Kari`angha ibn Muhammad Tukur.
My spiritual master, Shaykh Muhammad al-Amin, may Allah sanctify his secret
and benefit us by means of his baraka, in turn instructed and initiated me in the noble
words of: Laa ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah in accordance with the Path
of Spiritual Purification, in the forenoon of Sunday, the 3rd of Rabi`’l-Akhir in the year
1406 A.H. (December 15, 1985 C.E.); in the town of Maiurno, in the Sennar province of
the Republic of Sudan.
O Allah I ask You by means of the baraka of every waliy in this blessed chain of
authority that You manifest upon our outward the authority of Laa ilaha illa Allah
Muhammadur Rasuulullah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Give realization to our inward by means of
the realities of Laa ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Drown
our outward in You by means of the encompassing nature of Laa ilaha illa Allah
Muhammadur Rasuulullah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. Protect us, O Allah, by means of You in
the matrixes of Your existence through direct witnessing of You until we only witness
Your actions and attributes, by means of Your countenance, the Essence of the Truth of
Laa ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
O Allah by the truth of Laa ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah, send
blessings upon our master Muhammad, the one whose light preceded creation, whose
appearance was a mercy to all the worlds, to the number of those who have passed from
Your creation, and to the number of those who remain, to the number of those who attain
spiritual joy among them, to the number of those who are spiritually wretched among
them; with blessings which completely inundates enumeration and completely
encompasses computation; with blessings that have no ending to them, no termination to
them, and no cessation; with blessings with which we attain Your pleasure; with
blessings which are eternal with Your Eternity, continuous with Your Continuity until the
Day of Judgment; and upon his family and Companions and give them much peace in the
same manner and all praises are due to Allah for that by the omnipotent power of Laa
ilaha illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah.
I say, and success is with GOD in all that I say
The saying of LAA ILAHA ILLA ALLAH is the best that I can say
I say it with chains of authority to the Prophet Messenger
The true guide by means of his sayings to the Ultimate Goal
O LORD of all that I say, make it the last thing that I say.
It is regarding this, the author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` added his accepted
supplication (du`a mustajaaba) when he said may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him: “May
Allah provide us with dying upon those words…”; i.e., upon the words of Laa ilaha
illa Allah Muhammadur Rasuulullah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. For, this prayer is an accepted
supplication; and means: “O GOD provide us with dying upon the words of LAA ILAHA
ILLAH MUHAMMAD RASUULULLAHI, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.”
This principle is extracted from the prophetic tradition of Mu`adh ibn Jabal, that he upon
him be peace said: “Whoever has as his last words: Laa ilaha illa Allah will enter the
Garden.” In another narration, he upon him be peace said: “Whoever encounters Allah
and he has not associated any partners with Him will enter the Garden.” In another
narration, he upon him be peace said: “Whoever dies and he knows that there is no deity
except Allah will enter the Garden”; and other than these from the comprehensive speech
of our master Muhammad, regarding the rewards of the words of the shahaada, its
bounties and secrets.
The meaning of his words may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him: “…and make
it easy for us to act in accordance with all of these branches…”; that is to say, may He
make it easy for us to follow the Messenger of Allah, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in all of the traits of
faith (shu`b’l-imaan); the least of them and the most superior of them. I have enumerated
the number of the character traits of the Prophet which have been listed in this book, and
have found their number to be seventy-nine characteristics, which are in accordance with
the saying of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬: “Faith is seventy something traits”;
meaning seventy-nine as some of the scholars have interpolated it.
Realize that the Path to Allah `izza wa jalla is constructed upon adherence to the
character traits of the Chosen One, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬and nothing else. It is not possible for
a person to arrive at direct gnosis of Allah ta`ala without outwardly and inwardly
following the Sunna of His prophet.
Our master Shaykh Muhy’d-Deen Abd’l-Qaadir al-Jaylani said in his Fath’r-
Rabbaani: “The foundation of uprightness is in following the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in
his words and deeds. By purifying the heart, a person will come to see the Prophet, ‫صلى‬
‫ هللا عليه وسلم‬in his sleep. And he will command him to do things and forbid him from other
things…He will eventually come to be with the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬with regard to
his inward. Thus, his heart will become trained and disciplined with the Prophet and in
his presence, upon him be blessings and peace. He will place his hand in his hand and the
Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬will be his indication regarding Allah, and the gatekeeper to the
Presence of Allah.”
This is the meaning of the words of the author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` in
the beginning of the book: “Whoever emulates him in these traits will become spiritually
lucid”; that is to say, he will become spiritually lucid in his soul, intellect, heart, spirit and
innermost secret until he comes to see the Prophet, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬in his sleep.
It is in accordance with this meaning that Imam at-Tirmidhi transmitted a
prophetic tradition in his as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya where he said: “Abdallah ibn
Abu Ziyaad related to us, saying that Ya`qub ibn Ibrahim ibn Sa`d related to us, saying
that his nephew Ibn Shihaab az-Zuhri related to us on the authority of his uncle, who said
that Abu Salama said that Abu Qatada said that the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
said: ‘Whoever sees me, meaning in his sleep, has seen the truth’.”
The meaning of the words of the author: “…and make it easy for us to act in
accordance with all of these branches…”; is that he asked his Lord that He enters sound
faith in all of his actions by the easiest of the Paths, and that He gathers all of his actions
under the banner of sound faith by the most facilitating manner, until his faith becomes
evidence for his actions, and his actions become evidence for his faith. And that he
become as Allah ta`ala says: “among those who believe and do righteous deeds”; which
means those who know Allah ta`ala and act upon their knowledge; thus becoming one of
the proofs of God (hujjat Allah) for His creation and a sign from among the signs of God
(‘ayaat Allah) in creation.
The meaning of his words may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him: “…by the
rank of His noble Messenger, Muhammad, ‫ ;”…صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is that he asks Allah
by the rank of our master Muhammad with Allah ta`ala, his spiritual station and his honor
with Him. There is no doubt that the rank of our master Muhammad with Allah ta`ala is
immense, as Qadi ‘Iyad said in his as-Shifa Bi Ta`reef Huquuq al-Mustafa: “Abu
Muhammad Mekki and Abu’l-Layth as-Samraqandi and others transmitted that at the
disobedience of Adam, he said: ‘O Allah by the truth of Muhammad, forgive me of my
mistake…’ In another narration, he said: ‘…and accept my repentance’. Allah then said
to him: ‘From where did you learn of Muhammad!?’ He said: ‘I saw written in every
place in the Garden: Laa ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur Rasuulullah’. In another
narration he said: ‘…Muhammad is My servant and messenger; and I knew that he had to
be the most noble of Your creatures to You.’ Thus, Allah ta`ala relented towards Adam
and forgave him. These words of Adam are an interpolation of His words: ‘Then Adam
encountered from his Lord words, and He relented towards him, for He is the Relenting
the Merciful.’ In another narration he said: ‘Adam then said: ‘When You created me I
raised my head to the Your Throne and saw written upon it: Laa ilaha illa Allah,
Muhammadur Rasuulullah. Thus, I knew that there was no one who was more
immense in stature with You than one whose name was placed with Your Name.’ Thus,
Allah revealed to him: ‘By My might and majesty, he, Muhammad, is the last of the
Prophets from your descendents, and if it were not for him, I would not have created
you’.”
There has emerged a tribulation from the people who claim in their ignorance and
error that there is no ‘rank’ (jaah) to anything except Allah, the Lord of the worlds; and
that there is no ‘rank’ at all to our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. We say to them
that all ‘rank’ belongs to Allah, the Lord of the worlds, and He prefers with His rank
whomever He wills from His servants. Whomever Allah has preferred by granting him
rank with Him, then he has rank (jaah), honor (`izza), station (makaana) and nearness
(qurba) with Allah. There is nothing which has been honored with rank more than what
Allah preferred for our master Muhammad, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬.
Allah ta`ala says: “Indeed you are upon an immense character.” Thus, Allah
established between Himself and His creation, a created being from their own genus, and
dressed him with His attributes: ‘kindness’ and ‘mercy’; sent him as a prophet, messenger
and mercy to all the worlds; and preferred him with honor, rank, station, intermediacy
with Him; mentioned his name upon him be peace along with His Name `izza wa jalla;
made obedience to him upon him be peace like obedience to Him `izza wa jalla; made
annihilation into his Sunna the same as annihilation in the gnosis of His Divine Actions,
Names and Essence `izza wa jalla. For, whoever does not recognize the rank (jaah) of the
Prophet with Allah ta`ala, he will never truly surrender to his Sunna; he will never behave
in accordance with his character traits; and his heart will never be illuminated with the
Lights of the gnosis of his Lord.
For, our master Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace is the
intermediary means to knowledge of Allah `izza wa jalla. Therefore, do not turn your
faces from him, nor from his Sunna or his noble character. On the contrary, you should
direct yourself to him, seek his intercession and follow him. Then, he will intercede for
you with Allah. Allah ta`ala says: “When they act unjustly to themselves, and come to
you; they should seek forgiveness of Allah; and the Messenger will seek forgiveness for
them; they will find Allah Relenting and Merciful.” They will find Him, `izza wa jalla
relenting to them by means of the rank of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him
peace; and they will find Him, `izza wa jalla merciful to them in their knowledge of Him,
by means of the intermediacy of the Prophet, upon him be the best blessing and most
perfect peace.
The bottom line is that there is no guide to the Path of gnosis and direct
knowledge of Allah ta`ala than in following the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him
and grant him peace. For, whoever makes his soul adhere to the courtesies of the Sunna
and his noble character, Allah will illuminate his heart with the lights of direct gnosis of
Allah. For there is no path more noble than in following the Messenger of Allah, may
Allah bless him and grant him peace in his commands, his deeds, his words and
character. It is for this reason that the author, the Professor, asked his Lord by the rank of
the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace to provide him with the most
elevated of the traits of faith, which is direct gnosis of the words Laa ilaha illa Allah;
dying on these words; and following the remainder of the traits of faith, which are
nothing more than the character traits of the Chosen Prophet, upon him be blessings and
peace.
We understand from all this, that the methodology of the author, the Professor,
may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him; rather, the methodology of all the followers of
Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` in the Path to Allah and His direct gnosis is constructed upon
following the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace in his
commands, deeds, words and character until one reaches what he reached; which is direct
knowledge and His gnosis in the way He should be known. The Knower of Allah, and
best of the disciples of Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, his blessed son, Shaykh Muhammad
Sanbu ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ennoble his secret said about that in
poetic verse:
“O one who desires brotherhood, love and good advice
Listen to my words, for I have attained victory over all lower aspirations
I took a covenant with my Lord to follow Muhammad
In every affair with pure sincerity out of genuine love for him
For I have been guided by his light in performing
Commands, avoiding prohibitions and dubious deeds
As well as austerity in this lower world, because it
Is pure deception, and preoccupation from the Hereafter
And openhandedness, abundant tolerance along with contentment
Being cheerful for the sake of the Lord, and excellent companionship
Humility, nobility and courageousness
And visiting the sick as if these were second nature
Love for the destitute and love for orphans
Behaving excellently towards property without showing irritation
Purifying of the inner secrets, and constant remembrance
It was love for the master (Muhammad) which withdrew me from mishaps
As a result, I reached the Divine Presence by means of his light
Until I walked in the shade of intimate friendship and love
I have been guided by his light in all my supplications
To Allah, following in that the Path of the spiritually elite.
And by joining together the spiritual reality and the divine law
And concealing Divine Secrets from the common people
By avoiding everyone who conflicted with the illuminated Sunna
And every follower of the path of heretical innovation
And by avoiding scholars and government rulers
And the austere, if they acted treacherously by having love of leadership
If in this regard I were to command them
I would command those people in truth to make repentance
 Whoever does not repent from it, then we will depose them
Swiftly, and their blessings will be completely altered
For, I saw with the light of my secret that I was
Completely realized with Muhammad in my outward form
And I saw with the light of my secret that I was
Inwardly, the Mahdi, and Allah is the One who made this evidence clear
This is the reality, and in that I can care less about those
Who object without sound knowledge to the path of the Companions.”
Thus, Shaykh Muhammad Sanbu ibn Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` reached this
immense station of spiritual pole by means of his taken a solemn covenant to [1] follow
the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace; [2] imitate him in the
illumination of his character and [3] in his sincerity of intense love for him. For, by
following the character traits of the Chosen Prophet, upon him be peace, the illuminations
of direct gnosis of Allah emerged in his heart until he attained by means of the Prophetic
light, the Most Perfect Goal in the gnosis of his Lord.
The meaning of the words of Shaykh Abdullahi Dan Fodio: may Allah ta`ala
be merciful to him: “For, the character traits of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬are countless…”; is that the character traits of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه‬
‫ وسلم‬are very many and innumerous. It is said that they are more than two hundred, like
the number of his names, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬. It is said that they number three hundred and
sixty character traits. Other numbers are given as well.
I say, that the character traits of the Messenger of Allah, upon him be blessings
and peace are like the number of the stars in the heavens; or like the number of the grains
of sand in the desert; or like the number of the waves of the oceans; or like the number of
the moments in time. Upon him be the best blessings and most perfect peace as long as
the grateful show their gratitude for the causes of gratitude.
The brother of the author, Shehu Uthman ibn Fuduye` said in his poem rhyming
in the letter daal:
“No person has come with the likeness of his character,
Who can encompass the nobilities of Ahmad?
Who can enumerate the amount of his miraculous signs?
Like the grains of sands are the numbers of the miracles of Muhammad.”
He also said in the same poem:
“O you who attempt to enumerate the remarkable feats of Muhammad
You there, are you able to measure the foams of the sea?
Who can count the numbers of the sands in the empty desert?
In this way the many miracles of Muhammad has superceded
Glory be to the One who has given him as a gift the greatest of favors
Who is able to enumerate and count the praises of Muhammad?”
The author, the Professor Abdulahi ibn Fuduye` said in his poem ad-Daaliyya
regarding the abundance of the character traits of the Chosen Prophet:
“Fulfillment is inconcievable when it comes to fulfilling his due rights in praise
Who is there that can trully fulfill the praises of that spiritual master?
For, he is far beyond the praises of the composers who write
Upon the pages or beyond the objectives of any poem.”
 The reality is that the character traits of the Messenger of Allah, ‫صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬
are innumerous due to their abundance, however their fundamental traits are these
seventy something traits that the author cited in this blessed book.
The meaning of his words may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him: “Whoever
desires to know and act upon them should frequently peruse the books of the
prophetic traditions and biographies of the Messenger.” This means that whoever
wishes to know and follow the character traits of the Chosen One, then they must persuse
extensively in the books of prophetic traditions and the books of prophetic biographies,
such as the al-Ihsaan Fee Fadeelat ‘Alaam Shu`b al-Imaan of Shaykh Abu Muhammad
Abdallah al-Bustaami, the Shu`b al-Imaan of Shaykh Abu Abdallah Husayn ibn al-
Hassan al-Hulaymi, the Turjumaan Shu`b al-Imaan of the Mujaddid Siraj’d-Deen Umar
ibn Raslaan al-Bilqeeni, the as-Seera’n-Nabawiyya of Shaykh Abu Muhammad Abd’l-
Maalik ibn Hisham, the al-Jaami` al-Musanif Fee Shu`b al-Imaan of the one renown in
this discipline Shaykh Abu Bakr Ahmad ibn Husayn al-Bayhaqi, the Tanbeeh’l-Wusnaan
Ila Shu`b al-Imaan of Shaykh Zayn’d-Deen Umar ibn Ahmad as-Shamaa’ al-Halbi, the
ad-Durra al-Madiyya Fee as-Seera an-Nabawiyya of Shaykh Taqi’d-Deen Abd’l-Ghani
al-Maqdasi, the al-Kawaakib ad-Duriyya Fee as-Seera an-Nabawiyya of Shaykh Badr’d-
Deen Muhammad ibn Ahmad ad-Damashqi, the Seera Ibn ‘Ishaq of Imam Muhammad
ibn ‘Ishaq, the Subul ‘r-Rashaad of Shaykh Muhammad ibn Yusef ad-Damashqi, the ar-
Risaala al-Kamaaliyya Fee as-Seera’n-Nabawiyya of Shaykh Ali ibn Abi al-Hazim al-
Qurayshi, the ad-Dhakheera Fee Mukhtasar as-Seera of Shaykh Burhan’d-Deen Ibrahim
ibn Muhammad, the ad-Durar as-Saniyya Fee Nadhm as-Seera an-Nabawiyya of Shaykh
Zayn’d-Deen Abd’r-Rahim ibn Husayn al-`Iraqi, the al-Anwaar Fee Shimaa’il an-Nabiy
al-Mukhtar of Shaykh Muhy’s-Sunna al-Husayn ibn Mas`ud al-Baghawi, the al-
Muwaahib al-Laduniyya Bi al-Manhi al-Muhammadiyya of Shaykh Ahmad ibn
Muhammad al-Qastalaani, the as-Shimaa’il as-Shareefa of the Mujaddid Abd’r-Rahman
as-Suyuti, the as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya wa’l-Khasaa’il al-Mustafawiyya of the
traditionist, the Imam Shaykh Abu `Isa Muhammad ibn Suura at-Tirmidhi, and the as-
Shifa bi Ta`reef Huquuq al-Mustafa of the traditionist, Imam and Qadi Abu’l-Fadl `Iyad
ibn Musa; may Allah ta`ala be pleased with all of them.
The best of these are this as-Shifa bi Ta`reef Huquuq al-Mustafa of Qadi `Iyad,
and the as-Shimaa’il al-Muhammadiyya of Imam at-Tirmidhi. For, this work the
Akhlaaq al-Mustafa is a concise abridgment and exact quintessence of the as-Shifa of
Qadi `Iyad and the as-Shimaa’il of at-Tirmidhi. It is for this reason that the author, may
Allah be merciful to him said: “However, in what we have cited here is sufficient for
the one whom Allah has given success in acting in accordance with it.” This means
that what Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` transmitted in his book, the Akhlaaq al-
Mustafa is enough for the one who wishes to behave in accordance with the
praiseworthy Muhammadan character traits and who desires to follow his beneficial
qualities.
There can be no success except with Allah the Mighty the Praiseworthy, since all
good is in His Hand, the Generous the Benefactor and Possessor of Majesty and
Generosity. For, success in following the Sunna of the Prophet and in behaving with his
character, ‫ صلى هللا عليه وسلم‬is a blessing, mercy, favor and honor from Allah ta`ala alone.
There is no power or might to creation except with Allah the Exalted the Immense. There
is no success except by means of Him, glory be to Him, the Mighty the Wise. It is for this
reason that the author asked his Lord: “May Allah make that easy for us by means of
His favor and generosity.” This means may Allah facilitate us to follow the sublime
Sunna of the Prophet, and make it easy for us to behave in accordance with his
praiseworthy characteristics. This cannot be accomplished with any strength or ability
from us, but rather, success in that is from the generosity, favor and bounty of Allah
ta`ala – Amen.
The meaning of his words may Allah ta`ala be merciful to him: “The author
ends by saying”; that is to say the author himself, the Professor and most erudite of the
lands of the Blacks, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` Muhammad ibn Uthman ibn Saalih
al-Fulani al-Maliki al-Qaadiri said: “…that Allah made it easy for me to begin the
completion of this book on Sunday during the forenoon, the result being that this
text as you see it, was made easy to put together just before dhuhr, of the same day”;
that it was Allah ta`ala who made it easy for him to put this book together during the time
of forenoon, and he completed it before the time of the dhuhr prayer on a Sunday. He did
not mention in which month or year he completed it. It is regarding this that the scholars
of Sokoto and Gwandu differ. Some of them say that he completed this work in the
month of Rajab in the year 1222 A.H., (1807 C.E.) when he relocated with Shehu
Uthman from Sabon Guri to Gwandu. It is said that he composed it when he was in
Sifawa in the year 1225 A.H. (1810 C.E.). It is said that he authored this work after he
removed himself from governing Gwandu in the year 1240 A.H. (1825 C.E.). There are
other dates about which scholars assert that he composed this work, and Allah knows best
about the soundness of these assertions.
What is known is that he began it at the time of the forenoon, and completed it
just before the dhuhr prayer on a Sunday. I say: and success in that is from Allah, that the
time in which he composed the Akhlaaq al-Mustafa according to my own reckoning
was during the days of Bodinga, or some time just immediately after it. This was the time
that Shaykh Abdullahi experienced his most immense spirituial unveiling and insights.
This spiritual period ocuured during the eight months just after the death of Shehu
Uthman ibn Fuduye`, may Allah ta`ala engulf both of them in His mercy – Amen. I also
assert that the author, may Allah be merciful to him composed this blessed text between
the time of the forenoon and dhuhr prayer, as a miracle from Allah ta`ala.
The meaning of his words: “Finally, it is completed with the permission of
Allah”; is that he completed the book Akhlaaq al-Mustafa with the permission of Allah
ta`ala, which means with the knowledge of Allah ta`ala, His guidance, command, bounty,
power, assistance, and success. This is because the concept of ‘’idhn’
(permission/sanction) in the language of the Arabs embraces all of these meanings and
perspectives. Allah ta`ala says: “It is not possible for the Messenger to come with a sign
except with the permission of Allah”; meaning by that except with His knowledge. Allah
ta`ala says: “It is not possible for us to bring you an authoritative proof except with the
permission of Allah”; meaning by that except with His guidance. Allah ta`ala says:
“Indeed He revealed it to your heart with the permission of Allah”; meaning by that with
His command. Allah ta`ala says: “He is not afflicted with an affliction except with the
permission of Allah”; meaning by that except with the decree of Allah. Allah ta`ala says:
“If there are a thousand among you, you will conquer two thousand with the permission
of Allah”; meaning by that with his power. Allah ta`ala says: “How many times has a
small contingent defeated an immense contingent by the permission of Allah?”; meaning
by that by His assistance. Allah ta`ala says: “Among them are those who are the foremost
in excellence, by the permission of Allah”; meaning by that by His success.
Thus, the author, may Allah be merciful to him stated: “…it is completed with the
permission of Allah”; giving recognition of his impotence and lack of ability from every
perspective in his essence and non-essential qualities. Allah ta`ala says: “You do not will
except that Allah, the Lord of the world, wills it.” Allah ta`ala says: “Allah has created
you and your actions.” Thus, the very inspiration for the author composing this blessed
book, his objective in arranging it, and his success in completing it, was a miracle and
blessing from Allah tabaaruk wa ta`ala. It is for this reason the author, may Allah be
merciful to him said: “All praises are due to Allah for that”; which means all praises
are due to Allah, and gratitude to Him for what Allah ta`ala facilitated for him in putting
this book together, and in completing it in a short time. It is as if the author said: “All
praises are due to Allah, for guiding us to this, and we would not have been guided to it
had not Allah guided us.” And it was as he said.
The meaning of his words: “O Allah forgive me and my parents – Amen”; is
O Allah make this book a causative factor for attaining Your forgiveness, for me and my
parents; following the words of Allah ta`ala on the tongue of our master Ibrahim, upon
him be peace who said: “Our Lord forgive me, my parents and the believers on the Day
of Reckoning”; and His words: “Lord forgive me and my parents, and be merciful to
them, and content with them, with a contentment with which they are content with me. O
Lord be merciful to them just as they were merciful to me when I was young”; and other
than these from the Qur’anic verses regarding the spiritual bounties of being virtous
towards parents; which is among the most immense of the Muhammadan praiseworthy
character traits.
Here, I have completed this commentary which I named Nayl as-Safa’ wa Ijlaa’
ad-Dujaa Fee Sharh `Ala Akhlaaq al-Mustafa (The Attainment of Spiritual Clarity and
the Removal of Spiritual Darkness Regarding the Commentary Upon the Character Traits
of the Chosen One) with praises to Allah, and the best of His help and success on
Thursday, the 22nd of the month of Shawwal in the year 1434 A.H. (August 28, 2013
C.E.), in the port city of Cotonou, Benin in western Africa.3
I completed it a second time with correction, editing and additional information
with praises to Allah, and the best of His help and success after the `asr prayer on
Tuesday, the 22nd of the month of Allah, Dhu’l-Hijja in the yearh 1441 A.H. (August 11,
2020 C.E.), in the city of Bamako, Mali in western Africa. 4
I composed this commentary in order to clarify for my children specifically, and
for whomever Allah ta`ala wills from loved ones, and believers in general, that the
foundation of the Path to Allah and His gnosis is constructed upon following the
praiseworthy character traits of our master Muhammad, and behaving with these kind
qualities. I ask Allah with the same supplication that the author, Shaykh Abdullahi ibn
Fuduye` asked Allah in the last of his litanies and remembrances of Allah where he said:

3
Al-hamdulillahi wa shukru lillah! I was able to complete the English translation of this text on Sunday
morning before the fajr prayer, on the 16th of Dhu’l-Hijjah, 1434 A.H. (October 20, 2013 C.E.) under
severe constrictions. Wa shukru lillah wa’l-hamdulillah.
4
Al-hamdulillahi wa shukru lillah! I was able to complete the English translation of this text on Tuesday,
evening after `isha prayer, on 22nd of Dhu’l-Hijjah, 1441 A.H. (August 11, 2020 C.E.). Wa shukru lillah
wa’l-hamdulillah.
“I ask You O Allah by the truth of there is no deity except You, the Affectionate the
Benefactor the Possessor of majesty and generosity; and by Your greatest immense Name
that when You are supplicated by it You answer, and when You are asked by means of it,
You give; by the Name with which You render humiliated the great ones, kings, august
ones, and lofty ones. I ask You not to subjugate us to oppressive tyrants, recalcitrant
devils, envious humans, nor the oppressed from Your creatures, or those who are strong.
O Allah send blessings upon our master and chief Muhammad, and upon the
family of our master Muhammad, with blessings that redeem us from all misfortunes and
adversities; which fulfills all our needs; which purifies us from every evil; which elevates
us with You to the highest ranks; and which allows use to reach our furthest goals in all
goodly things in this life and after death. ‘All praises are due to Allah the Lord of the
worlds.”
O Allah be content with the spirit of the author, `Izz’d-Deen Abu Muhammad
Abdullahi ibn Fuduye` Muhammad ibn Uthman. Illuminate his grave in Gwandu with
lights and fragrances. Be merciful to all his descendents and vicegerents in Nigeria and
the Sudan. Be content with the spirit of his teacher and brother, Shehu Uthman, the
reformer of the religion and light of the age. Forgive and be merciful to his descendants
and jama`at, to the Sultan and to everyone who follows him, wherever they are. O Allah
send blessings upon our master Muhammad, the possessor of the Furqaan, to the extent
of all those who remember him and forget him from among men and djinn, and upon his
family, Companions, and all those who follow them in spiritual excellence. Here ends the
text and with its ending I end my commentary with praise to Allah and the best of His
assistance: ‘All praises are due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds’; and may Allah send
blessings upon our master Muhammad, the Chosen Generous Prophet.
 SANKORE'

Institute of Islamic-African Studies International