SoulAsylum
11-02-06, 10:34 PM
From As-Sunnah Bi-Monthly Newsletter (issue: 18)
Compiled by Shawana A. Aziz References: Primarily based on 'Lashkar-e-Usamah ki Ravaangi' (Urdu) by Shaikh Fazl-e-Ilahi, Love for the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and its Signs (Urdu) by Shaikh Fazl-e-Ilahi, Raheeq al-Makhtoom by Safi-ur-Rahmaan Mubarakpuri, The History of Islam by Akbar Shah Najeedabadi, 'Difference of Opinion amongst the Scholars' by Shaikh Ibn Saleh al-Uthaimeen, Tafseer Ibn Katheer, and others.
Stories of the pious predecessors contain lessons, advices and wisdom for us. The importance of these stories is known from the fact that a large portion of the Qur'aan enumerates stories of pious individuals.
After the Prophets of Allah (alaihimus-salaam), the companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) hold the elevated position of piety and honor. And among the companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), the most pious and honored is, 'the Prophet's Companion of the Cave' Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) - the First Khalifah of Islam, regarding whom Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "There is no one among the people who has been more generous to me with his life and his property than Abu Bakr ibn Abi Quhaafa (radhi allahu anhu) and if I was to take a bosom friend, I would take Abu Bakr as my bosom friend. But, the friendship of Islam is better. Block off every door in this Masjid except the door of Abu Bakr" [Saheeh Al-Bukharee] This article features an exemplary accomplishment of Abu Bakr Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) in the very beginning of his Khilafah (Caliphate) and lessons to be learnt from it.
The Complete Story
It was in Safar, in the eleventh year after Hijrah that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) developed the sickness from which he never recovered. The sickness intensified as days passed by. One day, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) called his companions and addressed them: "Make it a practice to honor and entertain deputations happy with gifts and rewards. Drive the polytheists out of the Arabian Peninsula and dispatch the army of Usamah. Show kindness to the Ansaar and forgive their mistakes…" then he fell unconscious due to pain and passed away four days later.
When the news of Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death spread, apostasy raised its head leading a number of people astray. Dajjals like Musailimah Khadhdhab and Aswad claimed Prophethood and caused a section of people to follow them. The demise of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) gave the enemies of Islam an opportunity to attack al-Medina and implement their wicked plans.
All this disturbed the sincere and pious followers of Islam, who were previously grieved due to the death of the beloved Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) - their leader and guide. The extent of their pain can be known by the statement of Anas (radhi allahu anhu) who said: "I have never seen a day better or brighter than that day on which the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) came to us; and I have never witnessed a day more awful or darker than that one on which the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) died." - Had Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) not instilled courage, determination and firmness in his companions, they would have fallen apart in this alarming situation!
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) was made the first Khalifah (Caliph), and on the third day after Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death, he announced the departure of Usamah's army, as were the commands of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).
Before his death, Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had already dispatched Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) with a large number of brave Sahabah to fight the Romans, however the expedition halted at al-Jurf, a place 5 km outside al-Medina, due to the Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) illness.
In response to the Khalifah's orders, the people gathered at al-Jurf, but they disagreed with him to send a large number of the Sahabah to fight the Romans, whereas al-Medina, the headquarters of the Muslims, was left with no defense. So, they requested Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) to retreat the army but he (Abu Bakr radhi allahu anhu) vehemently rejected their appeal saying, "Even if I was left alone and I knew that wild beasts would snatch me away, I would dispatch the army of Usamah. I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead."
Later, some of the Ansaar who were to accompany Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), approached Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) to request the Khalifah to substitute Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), who was only 17-18 years old, with an elder person who was more experienced to lead the army. Umar (radhi allahu anhu) reached the Ansaar's appeal to Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu), to which he responded negatively and in a fit of anger caught hold of Umar's beard and said: "O Umar! May your mother loose you (an expression of the Arabs to show disapproval) Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has ordered Usamah to lead the army and you are asking me to remove him from this position!"
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) then moved toward al-Jurf in order to dispatch the army. Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) was riding a horse and the Khalifah accompanied him on foot. Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) said to Abu Bakr: 'Either you ride a horse or I will dismount.' Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) replied: "Neither will you dismount the horse, nor will I ride a horse. What have I to loose in walking in the path of Allah! Seven hundred good deeds are written for the Muslim soldier for every step that he takes in the path of Allah, along with it, his rank is raised by seven hundred and seven hundred sins are taken away from him." He then requested Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), 'If you want to help me then leave Umar in al-Medina with me.' Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) acted according to the Khalifah's request and sent Umar (radhi allahu anhu) back to al-Medina.
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) then advised the army with ten thing, he said: "
(1) Do not approach embezzlement (to steal by fraud),
(2) Do not lie,
(3) Do not deceive,
(4) Do not kill children, women or old,
(5) Do not cut fruitful tress,
(6) Do not slaughter camel, cows or goat except for eating,
(7) You will pass by such people who have secluded themselves in places of worship, do not say anything to them and leave them as they are,
(8) You will pass by people, who will serve you different kinds of foods, so say 'Bismillah' when you eat,
(9) You will pass by people who have shaved the central part of their heads with plaits of hair hanging on all four sides of the head kill them with sword,
(10) Protect yourself with the Name of Allah."
Then he turned to Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) and ordered him to carry out the attack in the same fashion as Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had ordered.
Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) marched forth with his army and reached Jordon and Balqa. When the news of Prophet's death and then the news of the huge Muslim army reached the Romans; they exclaimed with surprise: 'How strange is it that their leader is dead and they are approaching to attack our lands Surely, they are very powerful otherwise, they would not dare to attack us!! This huge army is a proof of their enormous power.' Thus, the enemies of Islam deterred (were frightened, prevented) from attacking the Muslims in al-Medina or blocking the army. The Muslim army safely reached its destination, defeated the Romans and returned back after forty days, with immense amount of war spoils.
Lessons from the Departure of Usamah's Army
(a) Circumstances are bound to changes:
The above incident confirms the fact that circumstances are bound to changes and they never always remain the same. The situation before the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) reversed completely after his departure. Before, Islam and Muslims were ascending the ladder of success and people embraced Islam in large numbers, as Allah, the Exalted, mentioned in the Qur'aan: "When comes the Help of Allah, and the conquest (of Makkah), And you see people enter Allah's religion (Islam) in crowds. So glorify the Praises of your Lord, and ask for Forgiveness. Verily, He is the One Who accepts the repentance and forgives." [Soorah an-Nasr (110): 1-3]
In the ninth year of Hijrah, delegations from different areas arrived so frequently to accept Islam that the year was named, 'The Year of Delegations.' At the time of 'Fath al-Makkah' (the Conquest of Makkah), the Muslims numbered ten thousand and a year later in the battle of Tabouk, their number increased to thirty thousand. Now the Arabs looked upon al-Medina with respect, and there remained no choice for them except to submit themselves to the Muslims.
Then a time comes when circumstances suddenly change and al-Medina becomes the target of all Arab tribes, who seek to diminish every sign of Islam. "He (Allah) does what He intends (or wills)." [Soorah al-Buruj (85): 16] and: "He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned." [Soorah al-Ambiya (21): 23]
"Neither do joys sustain always nor do hardships, sometimes people are granted pleasure and their enemies are surrounded with hardships, and at times, the situations are reversed. One thing does not remain the same always and neither do its effects have eternity." [See Tafseer at-Tabaree (4: 218)]
It is obligatory on the Muslim to become patient if faced with hardships and adversities, he should always remember that Allah's Help is linked with patience and it is not from the characteristics of a Mumin (believer) to despair from the Mercy of Allah. Allah says: "Surely, Allah's Mercy is (ever) near the good-doers." [Soorah al-A'raf (7): 56]
A Muslim should always remember that no matter how intense is the hardship, it is the Sunnah of Allah that, "…Verily, with the hardship, there is relief. [Soorah ash-Sharh (94): 5-6]
So, it is required from the Muslim to stand firm against evil and disbelief in all circumstances, as Allah orders in the Qur'aan: "So stand you firm and straight (on the religion of Islamic Monotheism) as you are commanded and those who turn in repentance with you and transgress not (Allah's legal limits). Verily, He is All-Seer of what you do." [Soorah Hud (11): 112]
(b) Hardships do not cease the believer from implementing the Orders of Allah
The death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was a very tragic event for the Sahabah, especially for Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) because he was the closest to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) among men. Narrated Amr bin al-Aas (radhi allahu anhu), "…I came to him (the Prophet) and said, "Who is the most beloved person to you?" He said, "Aa'isha." I asked, "Among the men?" He said, "Her father (i.e. Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq)." [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) could not control his emotions even when he had the feeling that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) will soon depart from the world. When Allah revealed the verse, "This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you and chosen for you Islam as your religion." [Soorah (5): 3] The Companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) showed joy on the revelation of this verse but Abu Bakr was saddened and cried. He understood that this verse indicates the separation from Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), since Prophethood will no longer be required after the perfection of the religion.
Abu Bakr was so intensely grieved upon the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) that whenever somebody died he would say, 'Remember the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), by this your hardship will decrease and Allah will reward you."
But, did the greatest hardship cease Abu Bakr from implementing the orders of Allah? Did it even make him negligent of Allah's Commands? No, rather just three days after the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Abu Bakr ordered Usamah's army to proceed towards their objective.
And the hardship was not only that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) passed away but also that a group of people had become apostates and it was feared that the Jews and the apostates would attack al-Medina.
This situation and the danger to al-Medina was known to Abu Bakr, yet he was committed to put into practice the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). And in these circumstances, he (radhi allahu anhu) made a statement that has been inscribed in the history of Islam. He said: "Even if I was left alone and I knew that wild beasts would snatch me away, I would dispatch the army of Usamah. I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead."
These statements of Abu Bakr are of no surprise because he was trained by the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) - in such a way that in every situation of difficulty and ease, he would work for the growth and strengthening of Islam.
Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not find it sufficient to merely give advices but he presented before the Sahabah excellent examples. Even on his death-bed, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not stop warning his Ummah from the evil of shirk, Aa'ishah (radhi allahu anha) narrates, 'When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was about to breathe his last, he drew his sheet upon his face and when he felt uneasy, he uncovered his face and said in this very state, "May Allah's curse be upon the Jews and Christians for taking the graves of their Prophets as places of worship" [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) always stood firm on the lessons which he received from Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and we find that he always strived to spread the Religion of Islam. And on his deathbed, Abu Bakr advised Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu): "Umar! Listen to what I say and then implement it. I think I will die today and it was Monday if I die (in daytime) then you dispatch the people (for war) before the evening arrives. And if I die in the night, then you dispatch the people before morning. Nothing should stop you from implementing the Orders of Allah. You saw what I did after the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), even though people were surrounded by such hardships that there is no example of it. By Allah! If I had delayed in implementing the orders of the Prophet or I had shown weakness then we would have been disgraced and (Allah) would have punished us and then al-Medina would have been destroyed."
Subhan Allah! How immense was his desire to follow the teachings of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-salaam)!!
Like Abu Bakr, Umar (radhi allahu anhu) did not delay in implementing the Commands of Allah. Soon after the death of Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq, Umar (radhi allahu anhu) dispatched the army before the Fajr Salaat. Without doubt, the death of Abu Bakr was a depressing time for the Ummah but this did not stop Umar (radhi allahu anhu) from fulfilling his obligations.
(c) Dawah cannot be stopped
These incidents also prove that Dawah (calling people towards Islam) is not limited to certain individuals but it should be carried out by every Muslim who has the means to do so. Allah, the Exalted, revealed Islam so that it may prevail over all the other religions. Allah says in Soorah at-Tawbah (9): 33: "It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islam) to make it superior over all religions even though the Mushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, etc.) hate it."
Allah has decided that a group of Muslims will always persist in spreading the Religion of Allah. Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) reports in his Saheeh from Jabir (radhi allahu anhu) that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) say: "A group of people from my Ummah will continue to fight in defense of truth and remain triumphant until the Day of Judgment." [Saheeh Muslim]
By dispatching the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) proved with words and action that the Muslims have never abandoned Dawah, nor will they ever stop calling people to the Religion of Truth.
The same spirit and enthusiasm of spreading the religion of Allah was found in all the Companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). In the battle of Uhud, when confusion took place among the Muslims and a rumor spread that Allah's Messenger had been killed. Some of the Companions sat down adversely affected by this terrible news. They had given up. Anas Ibn an-Nadr (radhi allahu anhu), came to them and spoke to them: 'What has made you sit down?' They replied: 'The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has been killed.' He said: 'then what are you doing with your lives after him? Rise, fight and die for what the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) died for.' Then he advanced and met Sad ibn Mu'adh (radhi allahu anhu) and said: 'O Sa'd Ibn Mu'adh! By the Lord of an-Nadhr, Paradise; I smell its scent coming from this side of Uhud.' The narrator relates: 'We found more than eighty wounds from swords and arrows on his (Anas Ibn an-Nadr's) body. We found him dead and his body was mutilated so badly that no one except his sister could recognize him by his fingers…' [See Saheeh al-Bukharee]
(d) The Obligation, Rewards and Benefits of following the Sunnah
One of the fundamental lessons from the act of Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) is that following the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is obligatory on the Muslims also in times of hardships and difficulties as Allah says in the Qur'aan: "Whatsoever the Messenger gives you take it and whatsoever he forbid refrain from it." [Soorah al-Hashr (59): 7]
It is reported in Saheeh al-Bukharee from Ubadah Ibn Samit (radhi allahu anhu) that he said: "We gave oath to Allah's Messenger that whether heart agrees or disagrees we will obey your orders in every situation." Another narration mentions: "…in times of grief and pleasure and also when he (Allah's Messenger sallallahu alihi wa-sallam) prefers somebody else other than us." [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
It is equally obligatory to hasten in implementing the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) just as Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) dispatched Usamah's army on the third day after the Prophet's death. A number of examples can be found in the Seerah (biographies) of the Prophet's Companions (radhi allahu anhu) that they rushed towards following Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).
Imam al-Bukharee (rahimahullah) relates from al-Baraa (radhi allahu anhu) that he said: "When Allah's Messenger arrived in al-Madeenah, he prayed in the direction of Bayt al-Maqdis (in Jerusalem) for sixteen or seventeen months, although he wished to face the Ka'bah. Allah, the Most High, revealed: "We have seen the turning of your face towards the sky. Surely, we will turn you to the direction of the Qiblah, which will please you." [Soorah al-Baqarah (2): 144] So, he was directed to face the Ka'bah. A man prayed al-Asr with him, and then left and came upon a group of Ansaar and said: 'I bear witness that I prayed with the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and that he has been instructed to face the Ka'bah. So they turned to face the Ka'bah while they were in Ruku during the Asr prayer." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] So, the Sahabah did not even wait to raise their heads from the ruku and hastened to turn to where Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had turned towards.
Another example can be taken from the narration of Anas Ibn Malik (radhi allahu anhu) who said that a man came to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and said: 'the donkeys have been (slaughtered and) eaten.' He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not reply. Another man came to him and said, the donkeys have been (slaughtered and) eaten. He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not reply. A third man came and said, the donkeys have been disposed of. On that, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered a caller to announce to the people: "Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) forbid you to eat the meat of domestic donkeys." So the pots were overturned while the meat was still boiling in them. [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Not only the men among the Sahabah were devoted to hasten in following the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); even the women were very keen about following the beloved Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). Aboo Usayd al-Ansaree (radhi allahu anhu) said that he heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) while he was outside the Masjid (mosque). The men mixed with the women in the street, and so the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "Draw back for you (women) must not walk in the middle of the road; keep to the sides of the road.' Then the women walked so close to the walls that their garments rubbed against them. [Saheeh Sunan Aboo Dawood (3/989)]
Let us judge ourselves, are we like the men and women at the time of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), who followed each and every order of Allah's Messenger with haste? Why aren't we too following our beloved Messenger with all that he came with rather than following the disbelievers in dress, customs and traditions. How very often it is almost impossible to distinguish the Muslims from the disbelievers because of similarity in outward appearances!
We should be aware that our honor and success lies only in following the Sunnah of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). If we stray away from his path, we will be disgraced and humiliated in this life and the Hereafter. When Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) decided to dispatch the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), the Muslims were surrounded with all sorts of difficulties and they disagreed on the issue. However, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq giving no consideration to the disagreement ordered Usamah to lead his army towards Rome and all the people obeyed the orders of the Khalifah. So, when the people acted in accordance to the Commands of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Allah, the Exalted, blessed them with victory and huge amount of war spoils. He also caused the enemies of Islam to fear the Muslims and thus security and peace prevailed in al-Medina.
There is no surprise about the honor and success that reached the Muslims due to the dispatching of Usamah's army in accordance with the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) because it is the Sunnah of Allah, the Exalted that He supports and exalts those who obey His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). He says in the Qur'aan: "And obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy." [Soorah aali-Imran (3): 132] "And perform As-Salaat and give az-Zakaat and obey the Messenger that you may receive mercy." [Soorah an-Nur (24): 56]
Similarly, Allah also made it clear that those who do not follow the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have incurred the Wrath of Allah. He says in the Qur'aan: "And let those who oppose the Messenger's command (i.e. his Sunnah - legal ways, orders, acts of worship, statement, etc.) beware, lest some Fitnah (disbelief, trials, afflictions, earthquakes, killing, overpowered by a tyrant, etc.) befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them." [Soorah an-Nur (24): 63]
Thus, whosoever obeys the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) will achieve success and victory and whosoever disobeys him has chosen a way to disgrace and humiliation. Today, if Muslims are facing hardships and oppression from the Kuffar and have lost their security and peace - No doubt this is the result of our failure to implement the religion with which Allah sent His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)!
(e) No one is 'Masoom' (free form mistakes) except Allah's Messenger
The Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) made a mistake when they disagreed with Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) concerning dispatching the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu). This shows that no one is free from errors because nobody speaks or acts with revelation from Allah, except the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). Allah says in the Qur'aan: "He (Muhammad sallallahu alihi wa-sallam) does not speak of his desire. It is only a revelation sent down to him." [Soorah an-Najm (53): 3-4] therefore no one is 'Masoom' (free form mistakes) except Allah's Messenger.
Therefore we are not ordered to obey anybody other than the Prophet. Allah says: "We sent no Messenger, but to be obeyed by Allah's Leave." [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 64] and: "Whatsoever the Messenger gives you take it and whatsoever he forbids refrain from it." [Soorah al-Hashr (59): 7]
Allah also explains that if people obey persons other than the Prophet (sallallahu alahi wa-sallam); it would result in their own destruction. He said: "And know that among you there is the Messenger of Allah. If he were to obey you (i.e. follow your opinions and desires) in much of the matter, you would surely be in trouble." [Soorah al-Hujurat (49): 7]
Thus, even when Allah ordered us to obey our leaders; he made it a condition that the leader is righteous and his orders do not transgress the limits set up by Allah. Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has extensively explained this issue in his Ahaadeeth. Once, the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) sent some people under the leadership of a man from the Ansaar and ordered the soldiers to obey him. He (i.e. the leader) became angry and said, "Didn't the Prophet order you to obey me!" They replied, "Yes." He said, "Collect fire-wood for me." So they collected it. He said, "Make a fire." When they made it, he said, "Enter it (i.e. the fire)." So they intended to do that and started holding each other and saying, "We run towards the Prophet from the fire." They kept on saying that till the fire was extinguished… When that news reached the Prophet, he said, "If they had entered it (i.e. the fire), they would not have come out of it till the Day of Resurrection. Obedience (to somebody) is required when he enjoins what is good." [Saheeh al-Bukharee v. 5, no. 629]
(f) Difference of Opinion among righteous Muslims
The story of Usamah's departure also shows that difference in opinion is possible even amongst righteous people, just like the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhum) disagreed. Disagreements are sure to exist because, Allah says: "…and man was created weak." Man is weak in his knowledge and understanding. As a result, he will surely make mistakes. Moreover, disagreements occurred among the Sahabah even in the time of Allah's Messenger.
When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) returned from the battle of al-Ahzaab and took off his amour, Jibreel (alaihi as-salaam) came to him and said: 'We (i.e. angels) have not yet put down our weapons, so set out for Banee Quraydah.' The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered his Companions to leave for battle and said: "None of you should pray (Salaat of) Asr, except at Banee Quraydah." [Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim]
The Companions understood this command differently; some thought that the Messenger of Allah's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) intention was for them to make haste in setting off so that when the time of Asr prayer arrived, they would already be at Banee Quraydah. Consequently, when the time of Asr prayer set in and they were in fact still on their way, they prayed and did not delay it out of its prescribed time. The other Companions understood the Messenger of Allah's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) order to mean that they should not pray Asr until they reach Banee Quraydah. Hence, they delayed their prayer until they reached Banee Quraydah and therefore they prayed after its time. When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was informed about the incident he did not accuse any of them!
So, disagreements are not evil in themselves, but the malice and hatred among the people against the person/group that holds a different view is evil. And what is more dangerous is stubbornness even after acknowledging ones mistake and not accepting the truth!
It is worth mentioning here that the Hadeeth often mentioned concerning disagreements, 'The disagreement among my Ummah is Mercy' is a fabricated Hadeeth and should not be circulated.
(g) Referring to the Qur'aan and the Sunnah when disagreements occur
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) solved the disagreement among the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) by referring to the orders of Allah's Messenger. He proved with his action that regardless of the gravity of situation, the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) should be carried out. He rejected all the appeals of the Sahabah to retreat the army or substitute Usamah by saying, "…I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead…" In doing so, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq implemented the Orders of Allah, the Exalted: "O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), if you believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment. That is better and more suitable for final determination." [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 59]
Similarly, whenever a disagreement occurred among the Salaf as-Saliheen, they would refer it back to the Qur'aan and the Sunnah. It is reported in Saheeh al-Bukharee that when the Khalifah, Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) was traveling to Sham; on the way, he was informed that plague had broken out in Sham. So, he stopped and sought counsel from the Companions. He counseled both; the Muhajiroon and the Ansaar and they differed on the issue which resulted in two opinions; the correct one being that they should not travel to Sham but return to al-Medina. During this consultation, Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Auf (radhi allahu anhu) who had not been initially present came and remarked: 'I have with me some knowledge on this matter. I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) say: "If you hear of it (i.e. plague) being in a land, do not go there and if it breaks out in a land which you are in, do not leave in flee of it." So, they returned back.
(h) Submitting oneself to the Truth, when it is discovered
Disagreement took place among the Sahabah concerning the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) but it was soon resolved when Abu Bakr made clear to them that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had ordered the army to fight the Romans and that no person has the right to change the orders of the Prophet. There was no one after that who disagreed with the Khalifah and all approved of his decision because they were well-aware that: "It is not for believing, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whosoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in a plain error." [Soorah al-Ahzab (33): 36]
(i) Majority opinion that opposes the Commands of Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have no significance or authority.
"Fear not the path of truth for the lack of people walking on it."
People try to prove their stance by presenting "majority" as the proof of them being on the truth, however in Islam, majority is not the criterion. When Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) declared the dispatch of Usamah's army, majority of the Sahabah disagreed with him. And those who disagreed with Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq were not common people, they were the Ansaar Sahabah, regarding whom Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "If the people took their way through a valley, and the Ansaar took their way through a mountain pass, surely, I would take the Ansaar's mountain pass." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] and in another narration: "If there had been no Hijrah; I would have been from the Ansaar." [Saheeh al-Bukharee,] and yet in another narration, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) declared love for the Ansaar a sign of Eemaan, he said: "None loves the Ansaar but a believer, and none hates them but a hypocrite. So Allah will love him who loves them, and He will hate him who hates them." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] But the opinion of the Ansaar, their elevated status, and majority did not achieve authority because it was against the orders of Allah's Messenger.
Thus, majority has no significance. This was also proved at the time of Prophet's death; majority of the Sahabah among which was Umar Ibn Kattab (radhi allahu anhu) were of the opinion that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not die, and the rest believed that he was dead, amongst whom was Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq.
Umar (radhi allahu anhu) upon hearing the news of Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death; unsheathed his sword and said: "...The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not die, but he went to his Lord in the same way as Moosa did… He will come back and he will cut off the hands and legs of those who claim his death."
Abu Bakr went directly to the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), uncovered his face, tended down, kissed him and cried. Then he said: "I sacrifice my father and mother for your sake. Allah, verily, will not cause you to die twice. You have just experienced the death that Allah had ordained." He then came out and declared to the people: "He who worships Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is dead now. But he who worships Allah, He is Ever Living and He never dies. Allah says: "Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is not more than a Messenger and indeed (many) Messengers have passed away before him. If he dies or is killed, will you then turn back on your heels (as disbelievers)? And he who turns back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah, and Allah will give reward to those who are grateful." [Soorah aali-Imran (3): 144]
Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) said: "By Allah as soon as I heard Abu Bakr say it, I fell down to the ground. I felt as if my legs had been unable to carry me so I collapsed when I heard him say it. Only then did I realize that Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had really died."
So, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq did not consider the view point of the majority but accepted the Aqeedah of the Qur'aan and the Sunnah.
Hafidh Ibn Hajr writes commenting on this incident: "This proves that in Ijtihainority can be right and the majority can be wrong. Always the majority cannot be given the precedence.' [Fathul-Baree] And Imam an-Nawawi says: "If the Sunnah is established then it can not be left even if some, majority or all people have left it." [Sharah an-Nawawi 8/56]
Similarly (after the death of the Prophet) when a group of Muslims refused to pay Zakaat to the Khalifah, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) declared war against them. In this issue also, majority of the Sahabah disagreed with him concerning fighting them, and they were wrong!
Compiled by Shawana A. Aziz References: Primarily based on 'Lashkar-e-Usamah ki Ravaangi' (Urdu) by Shaikh Fazl-e-Ilahi, Love for the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and its Signs (Urdu) by Shaikh Fazl-e-Ilahi, Raheeq al-Makhtoom by Safi-ur-Rahmaan Mubarakpuri, The History of Islam by Akbar Shah Najeedabadi, 'Difference of Opinion amongst the Scholars' by Shaikh Ibn Saleh al-Uthaimeen, Tafseer Ibn Katheer, and others.
Stories of the pious predecessors contain lessons, advices and wisdom for us. The importance of these stories is known from the fact that a large portion of the Qur'aan enumerates stories of pious individuals.
After the Prophets of Allah (alaihimus-salaam), the companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) hold the elevated position of piety and honor. And among the companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), the most pious and honored is, 'the Prophet's Companion of the Cave' Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) - the First Khalifah of Islam, regarding whom Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "There is no one among the people who has been more generous to me with his life and his property than Abu Bakr ibn Abi Quhaafa (radhi allahu anhu) and if I was to take a bosom friend, I would take Abu Bakr as my bosom friend. But, the friendship of Islam is better. Block off every door in this Masjid except the door of Abu Bakr" [Saheeh Al-Bukharee] This article features an exemplary accomplishment of Abu Bakr Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) in the very beginning of his Khilafah (Caliphate) and lessons to be learnt from it.
The Complete Story
It was in Safar, in the eleventh year after Hijrah that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) developed the sickness from which he never recovered. The sickness intensified as days passed by. One day, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) called his companions and addressed them: "Make it a practice to honor and entertain deputations happy with gifts and rewards. Drive the polytheists out of the Arabian Peninsula and dispatch the army of Usamah. Show kindness to the Ansaar and forgive their mistakes…" then he fell unconscious due to pain and passed away four days later.
When the news of Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death spread, apostasy raised its head leading a number of people astray. Dajjals like Musailimah Khadhdhab and Aswad claimed Prophethood and caused a section of people to follow them. The demise of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) gave the enemies of Islam an opportunity to attack al-Medina and implement their wicked plans.
All this disturbed the sincere and pious followers of Islam, who were previously grieved due to the death of the beloved Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) - their leader and guide. The extent of their pain can be known by the statement of Anas (radhi allahu anhu) who said: "I have never seen a day better or brighter than that day on which the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) came to us; and I have never witnessed a day more awful or darker than that one on which the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) died." - Had Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) not instilled courage, determination and firmness in his companions, they would have fallen apart in this alarming situation!
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) was made the first Khalifah (Caliph), and on the third day after Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death, he announced the departure of Usamah's army, as were the commands of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).
Before his death, Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had already dispatched Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) with a large number of brave Sahabah to fight the Romans, however the expedition halted at al-Jurf, a place 5 km outside al-Medina, due to the Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) illness.
In response to the Khalifah's orders, the people gathered at al-Jurf, but they disagreed with him to send a large number of the Sahabah to fight the Romans, whereas al-Medina, the headquarters of the Muslims, was left with no defense. So, they requested Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) to retreat the army but he (Abu Bakr radhi allahu anhu) vehemently rejected their appeal saying, "Even if I was left alone and I knew that wild beasts would snatch me away, I would dispatch the army of Usamah. I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead."
Later, some of the Ansaar who were to accompany Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), approached Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) to request the Khalifah to substitute Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), who was only 17-18 years old, with an elder person who was more experienced to lead the army. Umar (radhi allahu anhu) reached the Ansaar's appeal to Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu), to which he responded negatively and in a fit of anger caught hold of Umar's beard and said: "O Umar! May your mother loose you (an expression of the Arabs to show disapproval) Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has ordered Usamah to lead the army and you are asking me to remove him from this position!"
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) then moved toward al-Jurf in order to dispatch the army. Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) was riding a horse and the Khalifah accompanied him on foot. Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) said to Abu Bakr: 'Either you ride a horse or I will dismount.' Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) replied: "Neither will you dismount the horse, nor will I ride a horse. What have I to loose in walking in the path of Allah! Seven hundred good deeds are written for the Muslim soldier for every step that he takes in the path of Allah, along with it, his rank is raised by seven hundred and seven hundred sins are taken away from him." He then requested Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), 'If you want to help me then leave Umar in al-Medina with me.' Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) acted according to the Khalifah's request and sent Umar (radhi allahu anhu) back to al-Medina.
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) then advised the army with ten thing, he said: "
(1) Do not approach embezzlement (to steal by fraud),
(2) Do not lie,
(3) Do not deceive,
(4) Do not kill children, women or old,
(5) Do not cut fruitful tress,
(6) Do not slaughter camel, cows or goat except for eating,
(7) You will pass by such people who have secluded themselves in places of worship, do not say anything to them and leave them as they are,
(8) You will pass by people, who will serve you different kinds of foods, so say 'Bismillah' when you eat,
(9) You will pass by people who have shaved the central part of their heads with plaits of hair hanging on all four sides of the head kill them with sword,
(10) Protect yourself with the Name of Allah."
Then he turned to Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) and ordered him to carry out the attack in the same fashion as Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had ordered.
Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) marched forth with his army and reached Jordon and Balqa. When the news of Prophet's death and then the news of the huge Muslim army reached the Romans; they exclaimed with surprise: 'How strange is it that their leader is dead and they are approaching to attack our lands Surely, they are very powerful otherwise, they would not dare to attack us!! This huge army is a proof of their enormous power.' Thus, the enemies of Islam deterred (were frightened, prevented) from attacking the Muslims in al-Medina or blocking the army. The Muslim army safely reached its destination, defeated the Romans and returned back after forty days, with immense amount of war spoils.
Lessons from the Departure of Usamah's Army
(a) Circumstances are bound to changes:
The above incident confirms the fact that circumstances are bound to changes and they never always remain the same. The situation before the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) reversed completely after his departure. Before, Islam and Muslims were ascending the ladder of success and people embraced Islam in large numbers, as Allah, the Exalted, mentioned in the Qur'aan: "When comes the Help of Allah, and the conquest (of Makkah), And you see people enter Allah's religion (Islam) in crowds. So glorify the Praises of your Lord, and ask for Forgiveness. Verily, He is the One Who accepts the repentance and forgives." [Soorah an-Nasr (110): 1-3]
In the ninth year of Hijrah, delegations from different areas arrived so frequently to accept Islam that the year was named, 'The Year of Delegations.' At the time of 'Fath al-Makkah' (the Conquest of Makkah), the Muslims numbered ten thousand and a year later in the battle of Tabouk, their number increased to thirty thousand. Now the Arabs looked upon al-Medina with respect, and there remained no choice for them except to submit themselves to the Muslims.
Then a time comes when circumstances suddenly change and al-Medina becomes the target of all Arab tribes, who seek to diminish every sign of Islam. "He (Allah) does what He intends (or wills)." [Soorah al-Buruj (85): 16] and: "He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned." [Soorah al-Ambiya (21): 23]
"Neither do joys sustain always nor do hardships, sometimes people are granted pleasure and their enemies are surrounded with hardships, and at times, the situations are reversed. One thing does not remain the same always and neither do its effects have eternity." [See Tafseer at-Tabaree (4: 218)]
It is obligatory on the Muslim to become patient if faced with hardships and adversities, he should always remember that Allah's Help is linked with patience and it is not from the characteristics of a Mumin (believer) to despair from the Mercy of Allah. Allah says: "Surely, Allah's Mercy is (ever) near the good-doers." [Soorah al-A'raf (7): 56]
A Muslim should always remember that no matter how intense is the hardship, it is the Sunnah of Allah that, "…Verily, with the hardship, there is relief. [Soorah ash-Sharh (94): 5-6]
So, it is required from the Muslim to stand firm against evil and disbelief in all circumstances, as Allah orders in the Qur'aan: "So stand you firm and straight (on the religion of Islamic Monotheism) as you are commanded and those who turn in repentance with you and transgress not (Allah's legal limits). Verily, He is All-Seer of what you do." [Soorah Hud (11): 112]
(b) Hardships do not cease the believer from implementing the Orders of Allah
The death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was a very tragic event for the Sahabah, especially for Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) because he was the closest to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) among men. Narrated Amr bin al-Aas (radhi allahu anhu), "…I came to him (the Prophet) and said, "Who is the most beloved person to you?" He said, "Aa'isha." I asked, "Among the men?" He said, "Her father (i.e. Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq)." [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) could not control his emotions even when he had the feeling that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) will soon depart from the world. When Allah revealed the verse, "This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you and chosen for you Islam as your religion." [Soorah (5): 3] The Companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) showed joy on the revelation of this verse but Abu Bakr was saddened and cried. He understood that this verse indicates the separation from Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), since Prophethood will no longer be required after the perfection of the religion.
Abu Bakr was so intensely grieved upon the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) that whenever somebody died he would say, 'Remember the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), by this your hardship will decrease and Allah will reward you."
But, did the greatest hardship cease Abu Bakr from implementing the orders of Allah? Did it even make him negligent of Allah's Commands? No, rather just three days after the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Abu Bakr ordered Usamah's army to proceed towards their objective.
And the hardship was not only that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) passed away but also that a group of people had become apostates and it was feared that the Jews and the apostates would attack al-Medina.
This situation and the danger to al-Medina was known to Abu Bakr, yet he was committed to put into practice the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). And in these circumstances, he (radhi allahu anhu) made a statement that has been inscribed in the history of Islam. He said: "Even if I was left alone and I knew that wild beasts would snatch me away, I would dispatch the army of Usamah. I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead."
These statements of Abu Bakr are of no surprise because he was trained by the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) - in such a way that in every situation of difficulty and ease, he would work for the growth and strengthening of Islam.
Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not find it sufficient to merely give advices but he presented before the Sahabah excellent examples. Even on his death-bed, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not stop warning his Ummah from the evil of shirk, Aa'ishah (radhi allahu anha) narrates, 'When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was about to breathe his last, he drew his sheet upon his face and when he felt uneasy, he uncovered his face and said in this very state, "May Allah's curse be upon the Jews and Christians for taking the graves of their Prophets as places of worship" [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) always stood firm on the lessons which he received from Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and we find that he always strived to spread the Religion of Islam. And on his deathbed, Abu Bakr advised Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu): "Umar! Listen to what I say and then implement it. I think I will die today and it was Monday if I die (in daytime) then you dispatch the people (for war) before the evening arrives. And if I die in the night, then you dispatch the people before morning. Nothing should stop you from implementing the Orders of Allah. You saw what I did after the death of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), even though people were surrounded by such hardships that there is no example of it. By Allah! If I had delayed in implementing the orders of the Prophet or I had shown weakness then we would have been disgraced and (Allah) would have punished us and then al-Medina would have been destroyed."
Subhan Allah! How immense was his desire to follow the teachings of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-salaam)!!
Like Abu Bakr, Umar (radhi allahu anhu) did not delay in implementing the Commands of Allah. Soon after the death of Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq, Umar (radhi allahu anhu) dispatched the army before the Fajr Salaat. Without doubt, the death of Abu Bakr was a depressing time for the Ummah but this did not stop Umar (radhi allahu anhu) from fulfilling his obligations.
(c) Dawah cannot be stopped
These incidents also prove that Dawah (calling people towards Islam) is not limited to certain individuals but it should be carried out by every Muslim who has the means to do so. Allah, the Exalted, revealed Islam so that it may prevail over all the other religions. Allah says in Soorah at-Tawbah (9): 33: "It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islam) to make it superior over all religions even though the Mushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, etc.) hate it."
Allah has decided that a group of Muslims will always persist in spreading the Religion of Allah. Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) reports in his Saheeh from Jabir (radhi allahu anhu) that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) say: "A group of people from my Ummah will continue to fight in defense of truth and remain triumphant until the Day of Judgment." [Saheeh Muslim]
By dispatching the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) proved with words and action that the Muslims have never abandoned Dawah, nor will they ever stop calling people to the Religion of Truth.
The same spirit and enthusiasm of spreading the religion of Allah was found in all the Companions of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). In the battle of Uhud, when confusion took place among the Muslims and a rumor spread that Allah's Messenger had been killed. Some of the Companions sat down adversely affected by this terrible news. They had given up. Anas Ibn an-Nadr (radhi allahu anhu), came to them and spoke to them: 'What has made you sit down?' They replied: 'The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has been killed.' He said: 'then what are you doing with your lives after him? Rise, fight and die for what the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) died for.' Then he advanced and met Sad ibn Mu'adh (radhi allahu anhu) and said: 'O Sa'd Ibn Mu'adh! By the Lord of an-Nadhr, Paradise; I smell its scent coming from this side of Uhud.' The narrator relates: 'We found more than eighty wounds from swords and arrows on his (Anas Ibn an-Nadr's) body. We found him dead and his body was mutilated so badly that no one except his sister could recognize him by his fingers…' [See Saheeh al-Bukharee]
(d) The Obligation, Rewards and Benefits of following the Sunnah
One of the fundamental lessons from the act of Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) is that following the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is obligatory on the Muslims also in times of hardships and difficulties as Allah says in the Qur'aan: "Whatsoever the Messenger gives you take it and whatsoever he forbid refrain from it." [Soorah al-Hashr (59): 7]
It is reported in Saheeh al-Bukharee from Ubadah Ibn Samit (radhi allahu anhu) that he said: "We gave oath to Allah's Messenger that whether heart agrees or disagrees we will obey your orders in every situation." Another narration mentions: "…in times of grief and pleasure and also when he (Allah's Messenger sallallahu alihi wa-sallam) prefers somebody else other than us." [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
It is equally obligatory to hasten in implementing the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) just as Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) dispatched Usamah's army on the third day after the Prophet's death. A number of examples can be found in the Seerah (biographies) of the Prophet's Companions (radhi allahu anhu) that they rushed towards following Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).
Imam al-Bukharee (rahimahullah) relates from al-Baraa (radhi allahu anhu) that he said: "When Allah's Messenger arrived in al-Madeenah, he prayed in the direction of Bayt al-Maqdis (in Jerusalem) for sixteen or seventeen months, although he wished to face the Ka'bah. Allah, the Most High, revealed: "We have seen the turning of your face towards the sky. Surely, we will turn you to the direction of the Qiblah, which will please you." [Soorah al-Baqarah (2): 144] So, he was directed to face the Ka'bah. A man prayed al-Asr with him, and then left and came upon a group of Ansaar and said: 'I bear witness that I prayed with the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and that he has been instructed to face the Ka'bah. So they turned to face the Ka'bah while they were in Ruku during the Asr prayer." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] So, the Sahabah did not even wait to raise their heads from the ruku and hastened to turn to where Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had turned towards.
Another example can be taken from the narration of Anas Ibn Malik (radhi allahu anhu) who said that a man came to Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) and said: 'the donkeys have been (slaughtered and) eaten.' He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not reply. Another man came to him and said, the donkeys have been (slaughtered and) eaten. He (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not reply. A third man came and said, the donkeys have been disposed of. On that, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered a caller to announce to the people: "Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) forbid you to eat the meat of domestic donkeys." So the pots were overturned while the meat was still boiling in them. [Saheeh al-Bukharee]
Not only the men among the Sahabah were devoted to hasten in following the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); even the women were very keen about following the beloved Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). Aboo Usayd al-Ansaree (radhi allahu anhu) said that he heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) while he was outside the Masjid (mosque). The men mixed with the women in the street, and so the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "Draw back for you (women) must not walk in the middle of the road; keep to the sides of the road.' Then the women walked so close to the walls that their garments rubbed against them. [Saheeh Sunan Aboo Dawood (3/989)]
Let us judge ourselves, are we like the men and women at the time of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), who followed each and every order of Allah's Messenger with haste? Why aren't we too following our beloved Messenger with all that he came with rather than following the disbelievers in dress, customs and traditions. How very often it is almost impossible to distinguish the Muslims from the disbelievers because of similarity in outward appearances!
We should be aware that our honor and success lies only in following the Sunnah of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). If we stray away from his path, we will be disgraced and humiliated in this life and the Hereafter. When Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) decided to dispatch the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu), the Muslims were surrounded with all sorts of difficulties and they disagreed on the issue. However, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq giving no consideration to the disagreement ordered Usamah to lead his army towards Rome and all the people obeyed the orders of the Khalifah. So, when the people acted in accordance to the Commands of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Allah, the Exalted, blessed them with victory and huge amount of war spoils. He also caused the enemies of Islam to fear the Muslims and thus security and peace prevailed in al-Medina.
There is no surprise about the honor and success that reached the Muslims due to the dispatching of Usamah's army in accordance with the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) because it is the Sunnah of Allah, the Exalted that He supports and exalts those who obey His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). He says in the Qur'aan: "And obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy." [Soorah aali-Imran (3): 132] "And perform As-Salaat and give az-Zakaat and obey the Messenger that you may receive mercy." [Soorah an-Nur (24): 56]
Similarly, Allah also made it clear that those who do not follow the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have incurred the Wrath of Allah. He says in the Qur'aan: "And let those who oppose the Messenger's command (i.e. his Sunnah - legal ways, orders, acts of worship, statement, etc.) beware, lest some Fitnah (disbelief, trials, afflictions, earthquakes, killing, overpowered by a tyrant, etc.) befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them." [Soorah an-Nur (24): 63]
Thus, whosoever obeys the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) will achieve success and victory and whosoever disobeys him has chosen a way to disgrace and humiliation. Today, if Muslims are facing hardships and oppression from the Kuffar and have lost their security and peace - No doubt this is the result of our failure to implement the religion with which Allah sent His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam)!
(e) No one is 'Masoom' (free form mistakes) except Allah's Messenger
The Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) made a mistake when they disagreed with Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) concerning dispatching the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu). This shows that no one is free from errors because nobody speaks or acts with revelation from Allah, except the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam). Allah says in the Qur'aan: "He (Muhammad sallallahu alihi wa-sallam) does not speak of his desire. It is only a revelation sent down to him." [Soorah an-Najm (53): 3-4] therefore no one is 'Masoom' (free form mistakes) except Allah's Messenger.
Therefore we are not ordered to obey anybody other than the Prophet. Allah says: "We sent no Messenger, but to be obeyed by Allah's Leave." [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 64] and: "Whatsoever the Messenger gives you take it and whatsoever he forbids refrain from it." [Soorah al-Hashr (59): 7]
Allah also explains that if people obey persons other than the Prophet (sallallahu alahi wa-sallam); it would result in their own destruction. He said: "And know that among you there is the Messenger of Allah. If he were to obey you (i.e. follow your opinions and desires) in much of the matter, you would surely be in trouble." [Soorah al-Hujurat (49): 7]
Thus, even when Allah ordered us to obey our leaders; he made it a condition that the leader is righteous and his orders do not transgress the limits set up by Allah. Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) has extensively explained this issue in his Ahaadeeth. Once, the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) sent some people under the leadership of a man from the Ansaar and ordered the soldiers to obey him. He (i.e. the leader) became angry and said, "Didn't the Prophet order you to obey me!" They replied, "Yes." He said, "Collect fire-wood for me." So they collected it. He said, "Make a fire." When they made it, he said, "Enter it (i.e. the fire)." So they intended to do that and started holding each other and saying, "We run towards the Prophet from the fire." They kept on saying that till the fire was extinguished… When that news reached the Prophet, he said, "If they had entered it (i.e. the fire), they would not have come out of it till the Day of Resurrection. Obedience (to somebody) is required when he enjoins what is good." [Saheeh al-Bukharee v. 5, no. 629]
(f) Difference of Opinion among righteous Muslims
The story of Usamah's departure also shows that difference in opinion is possible even amongst righteous people, just like the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhum) disagreed. Disagreements are sure to exist because, Allah says: "…and man was created weak." Man is weak in his knowledge and understanding. As a result, he will surely make mistakes. Moreover, disagreements occurred among the Sahabah even in the time of Allah's Messenger.
When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) returned from the battle of al-Ahzaab and took off his amour, Jibreel (alaihi as-salaam) came to him and said: 'We (i.e. angels) have not yet put down our weapons, so set out for Banee Quraydah.' The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered his Companions to leave for battle and said: "None of you should pray (Salaat of) Asr, except at Banee Quraydah." [Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim]
The Companions understood this command differently; some thought that the Messenger of Allah's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) intention was for them to make haste in setting off so that when the time of Asr prayer arrived, they would already be at Banee Quraydah. Consequently, when the time of Asr prayer set in and they were in fact still on their way, they prayed and did not delay it out of its prescribed time. The other Companions understood the Messenger of Allah's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) order to mean that they should not pray Asr until they reach Banee Quraydah. Hence, they delayed their prayer until they reached Banee Quraydah and therefore they prayed after its time. When the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) was informed about the incident he did not accuse any of them!
So, disagreements are not evil in themselves, but the malice and hatred among the people against the person/group that holds a different view is evil. And what is more dangerous is stubbornness even after acknowledging ones mistake and not accepting the truth!
It is worth mentioning here that the Hadeeth often mentioned concerning disagreements, 'The disagreement among my Ummah is Mercy' is a fabricated Hadeeth and should not be circulated.
(g) Referring to the Qur'aan and the Sunnah when disagreements occur
Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) solved the disagreement among the Sahabah (radhi allahu anhu) by referring to the orders of Allah's Messenger. He proved with his action that regardless of the gravity of situation, the orders of Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) should be carried out. He rejected all the appeals of the Sahabah to retreat the army or substitute Usamah by saying, "…I would not hold back at any cost what the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) ordered to go ahead…" In doing so, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq implemented the Orders of Allah, the Exalted: "O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority. (And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), if you believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment. That is better and more suitable for final determination." [Soorah an-Nisa (4): 59]
Similarly, whenever a disagreement occurred among the Salaf as-Saliheen, they would refer it back to the Qur'aan and the Sunnah. It is reported in Saheeh al-Bukharee that when the Khalifah, Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) was traveling to Sham; on the way, he was informed that plague had broken out in Sham. So, he stopped and sought counsel from the Companions. He counseled both; the Muhajiroon and the Ansaar and they differed on the issue which resulted in two opinions; the correct one being that they should not travel to Sham but return to al-Medina. During this consultation, Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Auf (radhi allahu anhu) who had not been initially present came and remarked: 'I have with me some knowledge on this matter. I heard the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) say: "If you hear of it (i.e. plague) being in a land, do not go there and if it breaks out in a land which you are in, do not leave in flee of it." So, they returned back.
(h) Submitting oneself to the Truth, when it is discovered
Disagreement took place among the Sahabah concerning the army of Usamah (radhi allahu anhu) but it was soon resolved when Abu Bakr made clear to them that Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had ordered the army to fight the Romans and that no person has the right to change the orders of the Prophet. There was no one after that who disagreed with the Khalifah and all approved of his decision because they were well-aware that: "It is not for believing, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision. And whosoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger, he has indeed strayed in a plain error." [Soorah al-Ahzab (33): 36]
(i) Majority opinion that opposes the Commands of Allah and His Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) have no significance or authority.
"Fear not the path of truth for the lack of people walking on it."
People try to prove their stance by presenting "majority" as the proof of them being on the truth, however in Islam, majority is not the criterion. When Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) declared the dispatch of Usamah's army, majority of the Sahabah disagreed with him. And those who disagreed with Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq were not common people, they were the Ansaar Sahabah, regarding whom Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: "If the people took their way through a valley, and the Ansaar took their way through a mountain pass, surely, I would take the Ansaar's mountain pass." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] and in another narration: "If there had been no Hijrah; I would have been from the Ansaar." [Saheeh al-Bukharee,] and yet in another narration, he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) declared love for the Ansaar a sign of Eemaan, he said: "None loves the Ansaar but a believer, and none hates them but a hypocrite. So Allah will love him who loves them, and He will hate him who hates them." [Saheeh al-Bukharee] But the opinion of the Ansaar, their elevated status, and majority did not achieve authority because it was against the orders of Allah's Messenger.
Thus, majority has no significance. This was also proved at the time of Prophet's death; majority of the Sahabah among which was Umar Ibn Kattab (radhi allahu anhu) were of the opinion that the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not die, and the rest believed that he was dead, amongst whom was Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq.
Umar (radhi allahu anhu) upon hearing the news of Prophet's (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) death; unsheathed his sword and said: "...The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) did not die, but he went to his Lord in the same way as Moosa did… He will come back and he will cut off the hands and legs of those who claim his death."
Abu Bakr went directly to the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), uncovered his face, tended down, kissed him and cried. Then he said: "I sacrifice my father and mother for your sake. Allah, verily, will not cause you to die twice. You have just experienced the death that Allah had ordained." He then came out and declared to the people: "He who worships Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is dead now. But he who worships Allah, He is Ever Living and He never dies. Allah says: "Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) is not more than a Messenger and indeed (many) Messengers have passed away before him. If he dies or is killed, will you then turn back on your heels (as disbelievers)? And he who turns back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah, and Allah will give reward to those who are grateful." [Soorah aali-Imran (3): 144]
Umar Ibn Khattab (radhi allahu anhu) said: "By Allah as soon as I heard Abu Bakr say it, I fell down to the ground. I felt as if my legs had been unable to carry me so I collapsed when I heard him say it. Only then did I realize that Muhammad (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) had really died."
So, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq did not consider the view point of the majority but accepted the Aqeedah of the Qur'aan and the Sunnah.
Hafidh Ibn Hajr writes commenting on this incident: "This proves that in Ijtihainority can be right and the majority can be wrong. Always the majority cannot be given the precedence.' [Fathul-Baree] And Imam an-Nawawi says: "If the Sunnah is established then it can not be left even if some, majority or all people have left it." [Sharah an-Nawawi 8/56]
Similarly (after the death of the Prophet) when a group of Muslims refused to pay Zakaat to the Khalifah, Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (radhi allahu anhu) declared war against them. In this issue also, majority of the Sahabah disagreed with him concerning fighting them, and they were wrong!