The Prophet (saws) intimated that after him Abu Bakr would take charge over the Muslim Nation.
Once, after the Prophet (saws) spoke to a female questioner, he told her to come back at a later time. She said, "And if I do not find you," as if she was alluding to his death. He (saws) said, "If you do not find me, then go to Abu Bakr.” [Al-Bukhari] And in fact Abu Bakr did assume the duty of leadership after the Prophet (saws). The Prophet (saws a declaration, making it clear that Abu Bakr was to be the next Khaleefah. However, he refrained from writing it because he knew that his Companions being pleased with Abu Bakr's superiority and merit would choose no one else. The Prophet (saws) said, "Allah and the believers refuse to have anyone other than Abu Bakr.” [Sahih Muslim]
In another narration, the Prophet (saws) said, "And with those two who come after me, Abu Bakr and 'Umar." [Musnad Imaam Ahmad, Ibn Majah, At-Tirmidhi, who ruled it to be authentic[. These words were proven to be true, for Abu Bakr became Khaleefah after the Prophet jig and he was then followed by 'Umar.
The Prophet (saws) Intimated To Us That The Muslims Would Conquer Egypt.
Ibn Ka'ab related from his father that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "When you conquer Egypt, then treat its inhabitants in a good manner." [Muwwatta Imaam Maalik] And in another narration, "Treat its inhabitants in a good manner, for they have the right of security and they are kinsfolk (Hagar, the mother of Ismaa'eel, was from them)." 'Amr ibn Al-'Aas led the Muslim army that conquered Egypt in the year 20 H, during the caliphate of 'Umar ibn Al-Khattaab And Abu Dhar related that the Prophet (saws) said, "Indeed you will conquer a land in which Al-Qeeraat is mentioned (Al-Qeeraat is a portion of a dinar, dirham, and other currencies; the people of Egypt, who used Al-Qeeraat in their transactions, would speak about it often). Treat its inhabitants well, for they have the right of security and they are kinsfolk." [Sahih Muslim]
Once, after the Prophet (saws) spoke to a female questioner, he told her to come back at a later time. She said, "And if I do not find you," as if she was alluding to his death. He (saws) said, "If you do not find me, then go to Abu Bakr.” [Al-Bukhari] And in fact Abu Bakr did assume the duty of leadership after the Prophet (saws). The Prophet (saws a declaration, making it clear that Abu Bakr was to be the next Khaleefah. However, he refrained from writing it because he knew that his Companions being pleased with Abu Bakr's superiority and merit would choose no one else. The Prophet (saws) said, "Allah and the believers refuse to have anyone other than Abu Bakr.” [Sahih Muslim]
In another narration, the Prophet (saws) said, "And with those two who come after me, Abu Bakr and 'Umar." [Musnad Imaam Ahmad, Ibn Majah, At-Tirmidhi, who ruled it to be authentic[. These words were proven to be true, for Abu Bakr became Khaleefah after the Prophet jig and he was then followed by 'Umar.
The Prophet (saws) Intimated To Us That The Muslims Would Conquer Egypt.
Ibn Ka'ab related from his father that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "When you conquer Egypt, then treat its inhabitants in a good manner." [Muwwatta Imaam Maalik] And in another narration, "Treat its inhabitants in a good manner, for they have the right of security and they are kinsfolk (Hagar, the mother of Ismaa'eel, was from them)." 'Amr ibn Al-'Aas led the Muslim army that conquered Egypt in the year 20 H, during the caliphate of 'Umar ibn Al-Khattaab And Abu Dhar related that the Prophet (saws) said, "Indeed you will conquer a land in which Al-Qeeraat is mentioned (Al-Qeeraat is a portion of a dinar, dirham, and other currencies; the people of Egypt, who used Al-Qeeraat in their transactions, would speak about it often). Treat its inhabitants well, for they have the right of security and they are kinsfolk." [Sahih Muslim]
The Prophet (saws) Foretold The End Of The Persian And Roman Empires.
The Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "When Caesar is destroyed, there will be no Caesar after him, and when Kisra (a title designated to the emperor of Persia) is destroyed, there will be no Kisra after him. And by the One Who has my soul in His Hand, you will spend their treasures in the way of Allah." [Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim]
This prophecy was fulfilled, for during the caliphates of Abu Bakr, 'Umar and 'Uthmaan, Caesar (the name of this particular Caesar was Haraql) lost control of countries in Sham (Syria and surrounding regions) and the Arabian Peninsula. His dominion was then limited to the countries of Rome. In Arabic, the application of the word Qaisar (Caesar) was for he who ruled over Rome, Sham, and the Arabian Peninsula. Therefore this Hadeeth contained glad tidings for the inhabitants of Sham; it promised them that, until the Day of Judgment, they would never again be under the rule of Rome. As for Kisra, he lost his entire control of most of his dominion during the caliphate of 'Umar and then he lost everything during the caliphate of 'Uthmaan. According to one narration, "this occurred in the year 32 H - all praise is for Allah and all blessings are from Him. When the Prophet (saws) sent a letter to Kisra, inviting him to Islam, the latter tore it up. The Prophet (saws) supplicated against him, invoking Allah M to completely tear apart his empire, and that is in fact what happened.
The Messenger of Allah (saws) Prophesized 'Umar's Murder.
Shafeeq Ibn Salamah reported that Hudhaifah said, "As we were seated in the company of 'Umar, he said, 'Who among you has memorized the Hadeeth of the Messenger of Allah (saws) regarding the Fitnah (tribulation)?' I said, 'I.' He said, 'Tell it, you are indeed bold.' I said, 'He mentioned the Fitnah of a man in his family, his wealth, his self, his child, and his neighbor - which are all expiated for by prayer, charity, the ordering of good, and the forbidding of evil.' He said, "That is not what I meant; I am referring to (the Fitnah) which will become agitated like the agitation of the sea (i.e. when people will become submersed in discord).' I said, 'O leader of the believers, indeed between it and you is a closed door.' He said, 'Woe unto you! Will the door be opened or will it break?' I said, 'Rather, it will break.' He said, 'Then it will never be closed again.' I said, 'Indeed.' "
Shafeeq Ibn Salamah said, "We said to Hudhaifah, 'It is as if 'Umar knows who that door is?' " Hudhaifah answered, "Yes, I related to him a Hadeeth that was not false (not false because it was spoken by the Prophet (saws), who spoke not from desire, but from revelation)."
Shafeeq later said, "We were afraid to ask Hudhaifah who the door was, so we asked Masrooq to ask." Hudhaifah answered, "Umar." And this is exactly what occurred. After 'Umar was killed in the year 23 H, people became engulfed in trials; 'Umar’s death was what led to the spreading of those trials.
The Prophet (saws) Foretold The Trials That 'Uthmaan Was To Undergo.
The Prophet (saws) said that 'Uthmaan Ibn 'Affaan was from the inhabitants of Paradise but that he would first be afflicted by a trial. This happened when he was besieged in his own home. Throughout that trial until its culmination - when he was murdered - he was patient and was hoping for his reward from Allah, and he became a martyr. When we previously discussed the events surrounding 'Uthmaan's murder, we mentioned those Ahaadeeth in which that murder was foretold by the Prophet (saws). Similarly, we mentioned those Ahaadeeth which foretold of the events that took place during the days of Jamal and Siffeen. [From this point forward, when Imam Ibn Katheer says about a Hadeeth or topic that he discussed it earlier, it might be from an earlier section of this volume, but he may be referring to what he wrote in a previous volume of his book on history]. And we seek help from Allah.
The Prophet (saws) Foretold 'Ammaar Ibn Yaasir's Killing.
There are narrations in which the Prophet (saws) said that 'Ammar would be killed. As for the Khawarij, whom ‘Ali Ibn Abi Taalib fought, there are many Ahadeeth related about them, Ahadeeth we have hitherto mentioned - all praise is for Allah and all blessings are from Him. We have also discussed the murder of ‘Ali and the Ahadeeth that foretold it.
The Prophet (saws), Specified That The Period Of The Caliphate Was To Last For Thirty Years After His Death And Then The Era Of Kingdoms Would Begin.
Safeenah reported that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Khilaafah (caliphate) after me will last for thirty years; then there will be kingdom(s)." [Ahmad, Abu Dawood, An-Nisai'e, and At-Tirmidhi, who ruled it to be Hasan]
Those thirty years consisted of the caliphates of Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq, 'Umar Al-Faarooq, 'Uthmaan Ash-Shaheed, and ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib Ash-Shaheed, the full thirty years came to an exact end with the end of Al-Hasan's caliphate, which lasted for six months. As soon as those thirty years ended, which was in the year 40 H, Al-Hasan stepped down, allowing Mu'aawiyah ibn Abi Sufyaan to take his place, and the people pledged allegiance to him. That year was called the Year of the Gathering (because the people came together after having been divided). In an earlier section, we have already discussed this matter in detail.
The Prophet (saws), Gave Tidings Of Al-Hasan Making Peace Between Two Huge Groups Of Muslims.
Abu Bakrah related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say while Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali was beside him on the pulpit, "This son of mine is a leader, and through him, Allah will bring together two huge groups of Muslims." [Al-Bukhari] And of course, that is what happened.
The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Informed Umm Haraam Bint Milhaan That She Would Die In A Naval War.
Umm Haraam bint Milhaan related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) mentioned that his battles in the sea would be of two groups and that Umm Haraam would be from the first group. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] That occurred in the year 27 H, when Mu'aawiyah asked 'Uthmaan permission to attack Qubrus. He gave his permission and so the Muslims traveled by ships until they conquered it by force. In that battle, Umm Haraam died at sea; she was accompanying the army with Mu'aawiyah's wife and her sister, Bint Qurzah. The second naval battle referred to in the Hadeeth took place in the year 52 H, during the rule of Mu'aawiyah.
Mu'aawiyah sent his son, Yazeed, to lead the Muslim army in an attack on Constantinople. Many eminent Companions accompanied Yazeed's army - among them were Abu Ayyoob Al-Ansari and Khaalid ibn Yazeed. Khaalid died there and requested Yazeed ibn Mu'aawiyah to bury him as close as he could to the territory of the enemy. When the time came, Yazeed fulfilled that request.
Umm Haraam related that she heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "As for the first army from my nation that will attack by sea, it has become binding (i.e., binding that they enter Paradise)." Umm Haraam asked, "O Messenger of Allah (saws), am I one of them?" He (saws) said, "Indeed you are one of them." The Messenger of Allah (saws) continued, "The (members of) the first army from my nation to attack the city of Caesar are forgiven." Umm Haraam asked, "Am I one of them, O Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "No." [al-Bukhari]
The Prophet Indicated That The Muslim Army Would Reach India And Sindh.
Al-Hasan related that Abu Hurairah said, "My Khaleel and the truthful one, The Messenger of Allah (saws), said, 'From this Nation there will be an expedition to Sindh and India.' If I reach that time and if I become martyred, then that is fine; and if I return, then I am Abu Hurairah the saved: He will have freed me from the Fire." [Musnad Ahmad] And in another narration Abu Hurairah said, "The Messenger of Allah (saws) promised the invasion of India. If I become martyred, I will be from the best of the martyred; and if I return, I am Abu Hurairah, the saved." [Musnad Ahmad] An-Nasa'ie related it as well from Sayaar ibn Jaabir, who heard it being imputed to Abu Hurairah.
The Muslims attacked India in the year 44 H, during the rule of Mu'aawiyah ibn Abi Sufyaan And King As-Sa'eed Al-Mahmood ibn Shinkinkeer of Ghuznah attacked it and surrounding territories in the year 400 H. He performed many valiant acts while he was there; for example, he destroyed the greatest idol in that land, an idol called Soomanaat; As-Sa'eed took the bracelets and swords hanging on the idol and returned safely and profitably to his homeland. At an earlier time, armies under Bani Umayyah fought the Turks (when Turks are mentioned in this book, the Tatars and their descendants are being referred to) at the extreme borders of Sindh and China. There, they subjugated King Al-Qaal Al-'Aazam after having destroyed his army and appropriated his wealth. In some Ahadeeth, a description of those Turks is given, which we will now briefly discuss.
The Prophet (saws) Said That The Muslims Would Fight The Turks.
Abu Hurairah related that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until you will fight a people whose shoes are made of (braided) hair and until you fight the Turks, who have small eyes, red faces, small and turned up noses, and who have faces that are like the shield (of a combatant)... People are minerals (this means that their roots, backgrounds, and lineages differ). The best of them in (the days of) ignorance is the best of them in Islam. And there will come upon you a time wherein for one of you to see me is more beloved to him than to be given more family and wealth - (than to be given) double what he already has." [Al-Bukhari]
Abu Hurairah also related that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until you fight Khoor and Kirmaan, (two) foreign peoples, whose faces are red, whose noses are wide and flat, whose faces are like shields, and whose shoes are (braided) hair." [Al-Bukhari]
'Amr ibn Tha’lab related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "From the signs of the Hour is for you to fight a people whose faces are wide, as if their faces are shields (of combatants)." [Musnad Ahmad] Bukhari related it as well from Jareer Ibn Haazim. The Companions fought and defeated the Turks; they gained spoils of war and they took women and children as captives.
Here, it is literally indicated that this Hadeeth is a sign of the coming of the Hour (i.e. The Day of Judgment). If the "Signs of the Hour" refers to events that take place shortly before the Hour, then the event referred to in the Hadeeth - i.e. a major battle between the Muslims and the Turks - can take place again. But if "Signs of the Hour" refers to a more general meaning, then an event at any time, and not just events that take place shortly before the Hour, can be from the Signs of the Hour, even if a given event occurs much before the Hour. But still, the event must take place after the time of the Prophet (saws) for it to be considered one of the Signs of the Hour. After having reflected on all of the Ahadeeth that are related about this topic, we feel that the latter of the two possibilities appears to be correct - and you will see this presently Insha'Allah.
The Prophet (saws) Intimated That Some Children Would Take Positions Of Authority Over The Muslims, And He Pointed Out That That will Lead To Evil And Corruption.
Abu Hurairah related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "The ruin of my nation will be at the hands of children (or young men)." [Musnad Ahmad] Marwaan said, "I used to go with my father to Bani Marwaan after they were made to rule; they would pledge allegiance to young boys and some who were pledged allegiance to were still in their safety rope (something specific to children to keep them from straying). I said, 'Perhaps these companions of yours are those about whom Abu Hurairah said: Indeed, these kings resemble one another.'"
Other prophesies are in the Hadeeth we mentioned about the "Liar" and the "Destroyer" from Thaqeef; the "Liar" was Mukhtaar ibn Abee 'Ubaid, who appeared in Koofah during the days of 'Abdullah ibn Az-Zubair. And the "Destroyer" was Al-Hajjaaj ibn Yousuf Ath-Thaqafi, the one who killed 'Abdullah ibn Az-Zubair. In another Hadeeth the Prophet (saws) prophesized the black flags, which Banu Al-'Abbaas came with when they wrenched control of the Muslim Nation from the hands of Banu Umayyah. This occurred in the year 302 H. The last ruler of Banu Umayyah was Mirwaan ibn Muhammad ibn Mirwaan ibn Al-Hakam ibn Abul-'Aas, known as Mirwaan AI-Himaar (literally, meaning donkey; he was called this because he would sweat profusely as he tirelessly fought those who opposed his rule) and Mirwaan Al-Ja'di (his teacher was Ja'ad ibn Dirham Al-Mo'tazili). Abu Al-'Abbaas 'Abdullah ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Ali ibn 'Abdullah ibn Al-'Abbaas ibn 'Abdul-Muttallib was the first ruler of Banu Al-'Abbaas.
Abu 'Ubaidah ibn Al-Jarraah and Mu'aadh ibn Jabal related that the Prophet (saws) said, "Indeed Allah M has commenced this matter upon Prophethood and mercy; it will become Khilaafah and mercy; it will become honor and sanctity; it will become kingdoms, great oppression, and corruption in the nation - people will deem (unlawful) private parts, alcohol, and silk to be lawful. They will be supported upon that and they will be given provision continuously until they meet Allah." [Abu Dawood]
Abu Hurairah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Prophets will be followed by the Khaleefahs, who will apply Allah's Book and who will be just with Allah's slaves. The Khaleefahs will be followed by kings, who will take their revenge, kill men, and choose wealth (for themselves). (At that time) one can change (evil) with his hand, with his tongue, and with his heart; and there is no Iman beyond that." [Al-Baihaqi]
Abu Hurairah also reported that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Children of Israel were led by Prophets; each time a Prophet died, he was replaced by a Prophet. And there is no Prophet after me, though there will be many Khaleefahs." The Companions asked, "And what do you command us to do, O Messenger of Allah?" He (Peace be upon him) said, "Honor the earliest pledges of allegiance and give them (i.e. the rulers) their rights. For indeed, Allah will ask them about what He made them rule over." [Al-Bukhari]
'Abdullah ibn Mas'ood related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "There was no Prophet who did not have companions who were his supporters - who were guided by his guidance and who followed his way (Sunnah). After them come ensuing generations, who say that which they do not do and who do that which they forbid." [Sahih Muslim]
The Prophet m Informed Us Of Twelve Khaleefahs From The Quraish Who Rule Over The Muslim Nation.
Jaabir ibn Samarah related that the Prophet (saws) said, "There will be twelve Khaleefahs who will all be from the Quraish." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] In another narration, Jaabir ibn Samarah reported that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "The affair of this nation will continue to remain upright and it will continue to be victorious over its enemy until it goes through twelve Khaleefahs, all of whom are from the Quraish." The Companions asked, "Then what will happen?" He (saws) said, "Then there will be Faraj (holes and gaps through which seep factors that lead to division and weakness in the ranks and in souls)." [Abu Dawood]
The twelve referred to in the Hadeeth are not the same twelve that the Raafidah falsely consider to be infallible Imams. Most of the twelve they mention never even had any position of authority over the Muslims, not even over a region or territory of Muslim land.
Among the twelve Imams that the Raafidhah mention, only ‘Ali and his son Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ruled over the Muslims.
The Khaleefahs Of The Quraish Referred To In The Hadeeth Are Not The Twelve Leaders Who Followed In Sequence After The Prophet's Death.
The twelve leaders of the Muslims who followed one another after the death of the Prophet (saws) - among whom were the leaders of Banu Umayyah - are not the twelve Khaleefahs that are referred to in the above-mentioned Hadeeth. In the Hadeeth of Safeenah, the Prophet (saws) said, "The caliphate after me will be for thirty years." He (saws) also said that kingdoms would follow that period, which means that the rulers of Banu Umayyah cannot be considered to be from the twelve Khaleefahs of the Quraish. Nonetheless, among those twelve Imams are Abu Bakr 'Umar , 'Uthmaan ‘Ali and his son, Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali. The majority of scholars maintain that 'Umar Ibn 'Abdul-' Azeez is also one of the aforesaid twelve Khaleefahs - and all praise is for Allah. Among them were also some from Banu Al-'Abbaas. The rest of them will come in the future, one of them being the Mahdi that is spoken of in some Ahadeeth. We seek help from Allah and we wholly depend upon Him.
Narrations Mentioning Signs Related To The Year 200 And Narrations Indicating That The Best Of Muslims After The Year 200 Are Those Who Have Neither Wealth Nor Children.
Ibn Qataadah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Signs are after (the year) 200 (H)." [Ibn Maajah] Ibn Maajah then related it through two other chains from Anas but none of them are authentic. If we suppose that it is an authentic Hadeeth, it is referring to the Trial that resulted from some people saying that the Qur'an is created and to the Trial that Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal and his companions from the Imams of Hadeeth endured. Rawaad ibn AI-Jaraah, whose narrations are Munkar, relates the following narration: "The best of you after the year 200 is he who will have a light load on his back." The companions asked what that meant, and he answered, "He who has neither family nor children." This is Munkar (one of the categories of the Da'eef Hadeeth).
The Best Generation Is the Generation of the Messenger (saws), Then Those Who Came Next, Then Those Who Came Next, and Thereafter Corruption Will Spread.
‘Imraan ibn Husain reported that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The best of my nation are those of this generation, then those that followed them." ‘Imraan said, "I do not know whether he mentioned two generations after his generation or three." The Hadeeth continues, "Then there will come after you a people who will give their testimony without being asked (scholars have said that this is referring to a person who gives testimony without being asked to give it on behalf of another who has knowledge of the fact that he is a witness; other scholars say that this is referring to one who puts himself forward as a witness but is not worthy of giving testimony), who will be treacherous and cannot be trusted, and who will make a binding oath (Nadhr) to do something but then will not honor that oath; and fatness will become prevalent among them." [Bukhari and Muslim, and this wording is that of Bukhari]
The Messenger (saws) Did Not Specify When This World Will Come To An End And It Is Not Authentically Related From Him That Prior To The Day Of Judgment He Will Remain In His Grave For 1000 Years.
What is related from many commoners regarding the Prophet (saws), not remaining under the Earth for 1000 years has no basis; this notion is not related in any trusted book of Hadeeth, and we have not heard it in lengthy compilations or summarized ones. Also, it is not established in any Hadeeth from the Prophet (saws) that he specified when the Hour will arrive; all that he mentioned is the signs which indicate that the Hour is near at hand, and we will mention them, Insha'Allah.
The Narration That Speaks About A Fire In The Land Of Hijaaz Which Will Illuminate Camels in Busrah, in the Land of Sham.
Abu Hurairah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until there appears a fire from the land of Hijaaz that will illuminate the necks of camels in Busra (Busra is in the land of Sham: Syria and surrounding regions)." [Al-Bukhari] And Muslim related it through ibn Shihaab.
The Appearance Of A Fire In Madeenah That Continued To Rage For An Entire Month In The Year 654 H.
Shaikh Shihaabud-Deen Abu Shaamah, Shaikh of the Hadeeth scholars and historians during his era, mentioned that on Friday, the 5th of Jumaadah Al-Aakhirah, 654 H, there appeared a fire in lands near Madinah An-Nabawiyyah, in some of its surrounding valleys. It extended for four leagues lengthwise and four miles width-wise. Rocks would pour out until they remained like lead or molten tin, and then they became like black coals. By dint of the fire's light, people were able to travel to Teemaa. The fire remained ablaze for an entire month. The inhabitants of Madinah related this incident and some among them composed verses of poetry about it. Qaadi Al-Qudaat, Sadrud-Deen ‘Ali ibn Al-Qaasim Al-Hanafi, said that a Bedouin once told his father that on that night (i.e. the night of the fire), he was in Busrah and that the people there saw the necks of camels from the light of that fire, which was ablaze in the land of Hijaaz.
Narrations From The Prophet (saws) That Speak About The Unseen Future.
In a narration related by Tlyaan ibn Ahmad Al-Bakri, Abu Zaid Al-Ansari said, "The Prophet (saws) led us in the morning prayer, after which he climbed the pulpit and addressed us until Zhuhr. He (saws) descended, prayed 'Asr, and then climbed the pulpit again, speaking to us until the setting of the sun. He spoke to us about what was and what will be; he informed us (thereof) and made us memorize (that information)." [Musnad Ahmad]
The Prophet (saws) Gave News About Events From The Past And The Future, Covering The Span Of Time Until The Coming Of The Hour (i.e. The End Of This World).
'Umar ibn Al-Khattaab said, "Once, the Prophet (saws) stood before us and informed us about the beginning of the creation (and he spoke of what will occur) until the inhabitants of Paradise enter their final abodes and the people of the Hellfire enter their final abodes. Some memorized (that information) while others have forgotten it." [Al-Bukhari] Bukhari narrated this Hadeeth as an attachment and not as a part of his compilation, using phrases indicating that he was not sure about the chain.
Hudhaifah said, "The Messenger of Allah once rose, standing before us. He mentioned everything that was to occur from the time he stood there until the time of the Hour. Some memorized it while others forgot it... and something will happen (from what the Prophet (saws) mentioned) and I will recall it as a man recalls the face of another man who was absent for a while; then when he sees that face again, he recognizes it."
Hudhaifah Witnessed Some Of The Events That The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Prophesized About.
Abu Nusrah related that Abu Sa'eed said, "One day, after the Messenger of Allah (saws) led us in the 'Asr prayer, he stood and addressed us until the sun set. He spoke of everything that was to occur until the Day of Resurrection; some memorized his words while others forgot them. Among the things he said was, 'O people, indeed this world is green (i.e., it has in it beauty, greenery, etc.) and sweet, and indeed Allah has made you to dwell herein for succeeding generations, and He is seeing how you act. So take your precaution from this world and take your precaution from women.' He later on said, 'The time is indeed near when the sun will set. What remains of this world when compared to what is past is like what remains of this day of yours compared to the part of it that is gone.'" [Musnad Ahmad]
‘Ali ibn Zaid ibn Hadjaan, one of the narrators of this Hadeeth, has strange and Munkar narrations; nonetheless, this Hadeeth is supported by similar narrations. At any rate, no one knows exactly when this world will come to an end except for Allah.
There Is No Basis For Israelite Narrations That Specify How Long The World Will Remain.
Similarly, none knows how many years have gone by for human beings in the past except for Allah. Scholars have repudiated narrations found in the writings of the People of the Book which specify that period — with a number that is in the hundreds of thousands. (Christian and Jewish religious) scholars are worthy of such mistakes.
In another narration it is related that, "The world is one week from the weeks of the Hereafter (scholars have differed in their understanding of this narration; because a day in the Hereafter is 1000 years of this world, week is understood to mean 7000 years)."
However, the chain of this narration is weak; similarly all narrations that specify the exact time of the Day of Resurrection are weak, with chains that are not acceptable. Allah said:
"They ask you (O Muhammmad about the Hour - when will be its appointed time? You have no knowledge to say anything about it, to your Lord belongs (the knowledge of) the term thereof? You (O Muhammad are only a warner for those who fear it. The day they see it, (it will be) as if they had not tarried (in this world) except an afternoon or a morning." [79:42-46]
And Allah said:
"They ask you about the Hour (Day of Resurrection); "When will be its appointed time?" Say: "The knowledge thereof is with my Lord (Alone). None can reveal its time but He. Heavy is its burden through the heavens and the earth. It shall not come upon you except all of a sudden." They ask you as if you have a good knowledge of it. Say: "The knowledge thereof is with Allah (Alone) but most of mankind know not." [7:187]
"The Hour has drawn near, and the moon has been cleft asunder (the people of Makkah requested Prophet Muhammad to show them a miracle, so he showed them the splitting of the moon)." [54:1]
The Nearness Of The Hour.
It is related in a narration, "(So near is it at hand) that it has almost preceded me." This indicates its proximity in relation to the time that has gone by in this world. Allah says:
"Draws near for mankind their reckoning, while they turn away in heedlessness." [21:1]
"The Event (the Hour or the punishment of disbelievers and polytheists or the Islamic laws or commandments), ordained by Allah will come to pass, so seek not to hasten it. Glorified and Exalted is He above all that they associate as partners with Him." [16:1]
"Those who believe not therein seek to hasten it, while those who believe are fearful of it, and know that it is the very truth. Verily, those who dispute concerning the Hour are certainly in error far away." [42:18]
On The Day Of Resurrection, The Muslim Will Be Resurrected With Those Whom He Loves.
A Bedouin once asked the Messenger of Allah (saws) about the Hour, and he (saws) said, "Indeed it is happening (i.e. it will certainly come to pass), and what preparation have you made for it?" The man said, "By Allah, O Messenger of Allah, I have not prepared much in terms of prayer or action, but I do indeed love Allah and His Messenger." The Prophet (saws) said, "You are with those whom you loved." [Sahih Muslim] The Muslims never became as happy about something as they became with this Hadeeth.
Whoever Dies, Then His Hour Has Arrived.
In some narrations it is related that when the Prophet saws) was asked about the hour, he turned to a young boy and said, "He will not reach old-age until the Hour of all of you comes to you." [Sahih Muslim]
This means that their generation will become extinct and they will all have entered into the world of the Hereafter: whoever dies has in effect entered into the Hereafter. Some people say, "Whoever dies, then for him his Day of Resurrection has arrived." This statement, based on the understanding we have just indicated, is correct. However, some disbelievers might use this statement, intending falsehood by it. As for the greater Hour, when the first and last will be gathered on one plane, the timing thereof is something that Allah alone knows.
The Keys To The Unseen Are Five: None Knows Them Save Allah.
In an authentic Hadeeth the Prophet (saws) said that there are five matters regarding which none has knowledge save Allah. The Prophet (saws) then recited:
"Verily, Allah! With Him (Alone) is the knowledge of the Hour, He sends down the rain, and knows that which is in the wombs. No person knows what he will earn tomorrow, and no person knows in what land he will die. Verily, Allah is All-Knower, All-Aware (of things)." [31:34]
The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Did Not Know The Time Of The Hour
When Jibreel it came in the form of a Bedouin and asked the Prophet (saws) about Islam, then Iman, and then Ihsaan, the Prophet (saws) answered him. But when Jibreel asked about the Hour, the Prophet (saws) said, "The one who is questioned does not have more knowledge about it than the questioner."
The Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "When Caesar is destroyed, there will be no Caesar after him, and when Kisra (a title designated to the emperor of Persia) is destroyed, there will be no Kisra after him. And by the One Who has my soul in His Hand, you will spend their treasures in the way of Allah." [Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim]
This prophecy was fulfilled, for during the caliphates of Abu Bakr, 'Umar and 'Uthmaan, Caesar (the name of this particular Caesar was Haraql) lost control of countries in Sham (Syria and surrounding regions) and the Arabian Peninsula. His dominion was then limited to the countries of Rome. In Arabic, the application of the word Qaisar (Caesar) was for he who ruled over Rome, Sham, and the Arabian Peninsula. Therefore this Hadeeth contained glad tidings for the inhabitants of Sham; it promised them that, until the Day of Judgment, they would never again be under the rule of Rome. As for Kisra, he lost his entire control of most of his dominion during the caliphate of 'Umar and then he lost everything during the caliphate of 'Uthmaan. According to one narration, "this occurred in the year 32 H - all praise is for Allah and all blessings are from Him. When the Prophet (saws) sent a letter to Kisra, inviting him to Islam, the latter tore it up. The Prophet (saws) supplicated against him, invoking Allah M to completely tear apart his empire, and that is in fact what happened.
The Messenger of Allah (saws) Prophesized 'Umar's Murder.
Shafeeq Ibn Salamah reported that Hudhaifah said, "As we were seated in the company of 'Umar, he said, 'Who among you has memorized the Hadeeth of the Messenger of Allah (saws) regarding the Fitnah (tribulation)?' I said, 'I.' He said, 'Tell it, you are indeed bold.' I said, 'He mentioned the Fitnah of a man in his family, his wealth, his self, his child, and his neighbor - which are all expiated for by prayer, charity, the ordering of good, and the forbidding of evil.' He said, "That is not what I meant; I am referring to (the Fitnah) which will become agitated like the agitation of the sea (i.e. when people will become submersed in discord).' I said, 'O leader of the believers, indeed between it and you is a closed door.' He said, 'Woe unto you! Will the door be opened or will it break?' I said, 'Rather, it will break.' He said, 'Then it will never be closed again.' I said, 'Indeed.' "
Shafeeq Ibn Salamah said, "We said to Hudhaifah, 'It is as if 'Umar knows who that door is?' " Hudhaifah answered, "Yes, I related to him a Hadeeth that was not false (not false because it was spoken by the Prophet (saws), who spoke not from desire, but from revelation)."
Shafeeq later said, "We were afraid to ask Hudhaifah who the door was, so we asked Masrooq to ask." Hudhaifah answered, "Umar." And this is exactly what occurred. After 'Umar was killed in the year 23 H, people became engulfed in trials; 'Umar’s death was what led to the spreading of those trials.
The Prophet (saws) Foretold The Trials That 'Uthmaan Was To Undergo.
The Prophet (saws) said that 'Uthmaan Ibn 'Affaan was from the inhabitants of Paradise but that he would first be afflicted by a trial. This happened when he was besieged in his own home. Throughout that trial until its culmination - when he was murdered - he was patient and was hoping for his reward from Allah, and he became a martyr. When we previously discussed the events surrounding 'Uthmaan's murder, we mentioned those Ahaadeeth in which that murder was foretold by the Prophet (saws). Similarly, we mentioned those Ahaadeeth which foretold of the events that took place during the days of Jamal and Siffeen. [From this point forward, when Imam Ibn Katheer says about a Hadeeth or topic that he discussed it earlier, it might be from an earlier section of this volume, but he may be referring to what he wrote in a previous volume of his book on history]. And we seek help from Allah.
The Prophet (saws) Foretold 'Ammaar Ibn Yaasir's Killing.
There are narrations in which the Prophet (saws) said that 'Ammar would be killed. As for the Khawarij, whom ‘Ali Ibn Abi Taalib fought, there are many Ahadeeth related about them, Ahadeeth we have hitherto mentioned - all praise is for Allah and all blessings are from Him. We have also discussed the murder of ‘Ali and the Ahadeeth that foretold it.
The Prophet (saws), Specified That The Period Of The Caliphate Was To Last For Thirty Years After His Death And Then The Era Of Kingdoms Would Begin.
Safeenah reported that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Khilaafah (caliphate) after me will last for thirty years; then there will be kingdom(s)." [Ahmad, Abu Dawood, An-Nisai'e, and At-Tirmidhi, who ruled it to be Hasan]
Those thirty years consisted of the caliphates of Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq, 'Umar Al-Faarooq, 'Uthmaan Ash-Shaheed, and ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib Ash-Shaheed, the full thirty years came to an exact end with the end of Al-Hasan's caliphate, which lasted for six months. As soon as those thirty years ended, which was in the year 40 H, Al-Hasan stepped down, allowing Mu'aawiyah ibn Abi Sufyaan to take his place, and the people pledged allegiance to him. That year was called the Year of the Gathering (because the people came together after having been divided). In an earlier section, we have already discussed this matter in detail.
The Prophet (saws), Gave Tidings Of Al-Hasan Making Peace Between Two Huge Groups Of Muslims.
Abu Bakrah related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say while Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali was beside him on the pulpit, "This son of mine is a leader, and through him, Allah will bring together two huge groups of Muslims." [Al-Bukhari] And of course, that is what happened.
The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Informed Umm Haraam Bint Milhaan That She Would Die In A Naval War.
Umm Haraam bint Milhaan related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) mentioned that his battles in the sea would be of two groups and that Umm Haraam would be from the first group. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] That occurred in the year 27 H, when Mu'aawiyah asked 'Uthmaan permission to attack Qubrus. He gave his permission and so the Muslims traveled by ships until they conquered it by force. In that battle, Umm Haraam died at sea; she was accompanying the army with Mu'aawiyah's wife and her sister, Bint Qurzah. The second naval battle referred to in the Hadeeth took place in the year 52 H, during the rule of Mu'aawiyah.
Mu'aawiyah sent his son, Yazeed, to lead the Muslim army in an attack on Constantinople. Many eminent Companions accompanied Yazeed's army - among them were Abu Ayyoob Al-Ansari and Khaalid ibn Yazeed. Khaalid died there and requested Yazeed ibn Mu'aawiyah to bury him as close as he could to the territory of the enemy. When the time came, Yazeed fulfilled that request.
Umm Haraam related that she heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "As for the first army from my nation that will attack by sea, it has become binding (i.e., binding that they enter Paradise)." Umm Haraam asked, "O Messenger of Allah (saws), am I one of them?" He (saws) said, "Indeed you are one of them." The Messenger of Allah (saws) continued, "The (members of) the first army from my nation to attack the city of Caesar are forgiven." Umm Haraam asked, "Am I one of them, O Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "No." [al-Bukhari]
The Prophet Indicated That The Muslim Army Would Reach India And Sindh.
Al-Hasan related that Abu Hurairah said, "My Khaleel and the truthful one, The Messenger of Allah (saws), said, 'From this Nation there will be an expedition to Sindh and India.' If I reach that time and if I become martyred, then that is fine; and if I return, then I am Abu Hurairah the saved: He will have freed me from the Fire." [Musnad Ahmad] And in another narration Abu Hurairah said, "The Messenger of Allah (saws) promised the invasion of India. If I become martyred, I will be from the best of the martyred; and if I return, I am Abu Hurairah, the saved." [Musnad Ahmad] An-Nasa'ie related it as well from Sayaar ibn Jaabir, who heard it being imputed to Abu Hurairah.
The Muslims attacked India in the year 44 H, during the rule of Mu'aawiyah ibn Abi Sufyaan And King As-Sa'eed Al-Mahmood ibn Shinkinkeer of Ghuznah attacked it and surrounding territories in the year 400 H. He performed many valiant acts while he was there; for example, he destroyed the greatest idol in that land, an idol called Soomanaat; As-Sa'eed took the bracelets and swords hanging on the idol and returned safely and profitably to his homeland. At an earlier time, armies under Bani Umayyah fought the Turks (when Turks are mentioned in this book, the Tatars and their descendants are being referred to) at the extreme borders of Sindh and China. There, they subjugated King Al-Qaal Al-'Aazam after having destroyed his army and appropriated his wealth. In some Ahadeeth, a description of those Turks is given, which we will now briefly discuss.
The Prophet (saws) Said That The Muslims Would Fight The Turks.
Abu Hurairah related that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until you will fight a people whose shoes are made of (braided) hair and until you fight the Turks, who have small eyes, red faces, small and turned up noses, and who have faces that are like the shield (of a combatant)... People are minerals (this means that their roots, backgrounds, and lineages differ). The best of them in (the days of) ignorance is the best of them in Islam. And there will come upon you a time wherein for one of you to see me is more beloved to him than to be given more family and wealth - (than to be given) double what he already has." [Al-Bukhari]
Abu Hurairah also related that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until you fight Khoor and Kirmaan, (two) foreign peoples, whose faces are red, whose noses are wide and flat, whose faces are like shields, and whose shoes are (braided) hair." [Al-Bukhari]
'Amr ibn Tha’lab related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "From the signs of the Hour is for you to fight a people whose faces are wide, as if their faces are shields (of combatants)." [Musnad Ahmad] Bukhari related it as well from Jareer Ibn Haazim. The Companions fought and defeated the Turks; they gained spoils of war and they took women and children as captives.
Here, it is literally indicated that this Hadeeth is a sign of the coming of the Hour (i.e. The Day of Judgment). If the "Signs of the Hour" refers to events that take place shortly before the Hour, then the event referred to in the Hadeeth - i.e. a major battle between the Muslims and the Turks - can take place again. But if "Signs of the Hour" refers to a more general meaning, then an event at any time, and not just events that take place shortly before the Hour, can be from the Signs of the Hour, even if a given event occurs much before the Hour. But still, the event must take place after the time of the Prophet (saws) for it to be considered one of the Signs of the Hour. After having reflected on all of the Ahadeeth that are related about this topic, we feel that the latter of the two possibilities appears to be correct - and you will see this presently Insha'Allah.
The Prophet (saws) Intimated That Some Children Would Take Positions Of Authority Over The Muslims, And He Pointed Out That That will Lead To Evil And Corruption.
Abu Hurairah related that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "The ruin of my nation will be at the hands of children (or young men)." [Musnad Ahmad] Marwaan said, "I used to go with my father to Bani Marwaan after they were made to rule; they would pledge allegiance to young boys and some who were pledged allegiance to were still in their safety rope (something specific to children to keep them from straying). I said, 'Perhaps these companions of yours are those about whom Abu Hurairah said: Indeed, these kings resemble one another.'"
Other prophesies are in the Hadeeth we mentioned about the "Liar" and the "Destroyer" from Thaqeef; the "Liar" was Mukhtaar ibn Abee 'Ubaid, who appeared in Koofah during the days of 'Abdullah ibn Az-Zubair. And the "Destroyer" was Al-Hajjaaj ibn Yousuf Ath-Thaqafi, the one who killed 'Abdullah ibn Az-Zubair. In another Hadeeth the Prophet (saws) prophesized the black flags, which Banu Al-'Abbaas came with when they wrenched control of the Muslim Nation from the hands of Banu Umayyah. This occurred in the year 302 H. The last ruler of Banu Umayyah was Mirwaan ibn Muhammad ibn Mirwaan ibn Al-Hakam ibn Abul-'Aas, known as Mirwaan AI-Himaar (literally, meaning donkey; he was called this because he would sweat profusely as he tirelessly fought those who opposed his rule) and Mirwaan Al-Ja'di (his teacher was Ja'ad ibn Dirham Al-Mo'tazili). Abu Al-'Abbaas 'Abdullah ibn Muhammad ibn ‘Ali ibn 'Abdullah ibn Al-'Abbaas ibn 'Abdul-Muttallib was the first ruler of Banu Al-'Abbaas.
Abu 'Ubaidah ibn Al-Jarraah and Mu'aadh ibn Jabal related that the Prophet (saws) said, "Indeed Allah M has commenced this matter upon Prophethood and mercy; it will become Khilaafah and mercy; it will become honor and sanctity; it will become kingdoms, great oppression, and corruption in the nation - people will deem (unlawful) private parts, alcohol, and silk to be lawful. They will be supported upon that and they will be given provision continuously until they meet Allah." [Abu Dawood]
Abu Hurairah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Prophets will be followed by the Khaleefahs, who will apply Allah's Book and who will be just with Allah's slaves. The Khaleefahs will be followed by kings, who will take their revenge, kill men, and choose wealth (for themselves). (At that time) one can change (evil) with his hand, with his tongue, and with his heart; and there is no Iman beyond that." [Al-Baihaqi]
Abu Hurairah also reported that the Prophet (saws) said, "The Children of Israel were led by Prophets; each time a Prophet died, he was replaced by a Prophet. And there is no Prophet after me, though there will be many Khaleefahs." The Companions asked, "And what do you command us to do, O Messenger of Allah?" He (Peace be upon him) said, "Honor the earliest pledges of allegiance and give them (i.e. the rulers) their rights. For indeed, Allah will ask them about what He made them rule over." [Al-Bukhari]
'Abdullah ibn Mas'ood related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "There was no Prophet who did not have companions who were his supporters - who were guided by his guidance and who followed his way (Sunnah). After them come ensuing generations, who say that which they do not do and who do that which they forbid." [Sahih Muslim]
The Prophet m Informed Us Of Twelve Khaleefahs From The Quraish Who Rule Over The Muslim Nation.
Jaabir ibn Samarah related that the Prophet (saws) said, "There will be twelve Khaleefahs who will all be from the Quraish." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] In another narration, Jaabir ibn Samarah reported that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saws) say, "The affair of this nation will continue to remain upright and it will continue to be victorious over its enemy until it goes through twelve Khaleefahs, all of whom are from the Quraish." The Companions asked, "Then what will happen?" He (saws) said, "Then there will be Faraj (holes and gaps through which seep factors that lead to division and weakness in the ranks and in souls)." [Abu Dawood]
The twelve referred to in the Hadeeth are not the same twelve that the Raafidah falsely consider to be infallible Imams. Most of the twelve they mention never even had any position of authority over the Muslims, not even over a region or territory of Muslim land.
Among the twelve Imams that the Raafidhah mention, only ‘Ali and his son Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali ruled over the Muslims.
The Khaleefahs Of The Quraish Referred To In The Hadeeth Are Not The Twelve Leaders Who Followed In Sequence After The Prophet's Death.
The twelve leaders of the Muslims who followed one another after the death of the Prophet (saws) - among whom were the leaders of Banu Umayyah - are not the twelve Khaleefahs that are referred to in the above-mentioned Hadeeth. In the Hadeeth of Safeenah, the Prophet (saws) said, "The caliphate after me will be for thirty years." He (saws) also said that kingdoms would follow that period, which means that the rulers of Banu Umayyah cannot be considered to be from the twelve Khaleefahs of the Quraish. Nonetheless, among those twelve Imams are Abu Bakr 'Umar , 'Uthmaan ‘Ali and his son, Al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali. The majority of scholars maintain that 'Umar Ibn 'Abdul-' Azeez is also one of the aforesaid twelve Khaleefahs - and all praise is for Allah. Among them were also some from Banu Al-'Abbaas. The rest of them will come in the future, one of them being the Mahdi that is spoken of in some Ahadeeth. We seek help from Allah and we wholly depend upon Him.
Narrations Mentioning Signs Related To The Year 200 And Narrations Indicating That The Best Of Muslims After The Year 200 Are Those Who Have Neither Wealth Nor Children.
Ibn Qataadah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Signs are after (the year) 200 (H)." [Ibn Maajah] Ibn Maajah then related it through two other chains from Anas but none of them are authentic. If we suppose that it is an authentic Hadeeth, it is referring to the Trial that resulted from some people saying that the Qur'an is created and to the Trial that Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal and his companions from the Imams of Hadeeth endured. Rawaad ibn AI-Jaraah, whose narrations are Munkar, relates the following narration: "The best of you after the year 200 is he who will have a light load on his back." The companions asked what that meant, and he answered, "He who has neither family nor children." This is Munkar (one of the categories of the Da'eef Hadeeth).
The Best Generation Is the Generation of the Messenger (saws), Then Those Who Came Next, Then Those Who Came Next, and Thereafter Corruption Will Spread.
‘Imraan ibn Husain reported that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The best of my nation are those of this generation, then those that followed them." ‘Imraan said, "I do not know whether he mentioned two generations after his generation or three." The Hadeeth continues, "Then there will come after you a people who will give their testimony without being asked (scholars have said that this is referring to a person who gives testimony without being asked to give it on behalf of another who has knowledge of the fact that he is a witness; other scholars say that this is referring to one who puts himself forward as a witness but is not worthy of giving testimony), who will be treacherous and cannot be trusted, and who will make a binding oath (Nadhr) to do something but then will not honor that oath; and fatness will become prevalent among them." [Bukhari and Muslim, and this wording is that of Bukhari]
The Messenger (saws) Did Not Specify When This World Will Come To An End And It Is Not Authentically Related From Him That Prior To The Day Of Judgment He Will Remain In His Grave For 1000 Years.
What is related from many commoners regarding the Prophet (saws), not remaining under the Earth for 1000 years has no basis; this notion is not related in any trusted book of Hadeeth, and we have not heard it in lengthy compilations or summarized ones. Also, it is not established in any Hadeeth from the Prophet (saws) that he specified when the Hour will arrive; all that he mentioned is the signs which indicate that the Hour is near at hand, and we will mention them, Insha'Allah.
The Narration That Speaks About A Fire In The Land Of Hijaaz Which Will Illuminate Camels in Busrah, in the Land of Sham.
Abu Hurairah related that the Messenger of Allah (saws) said, "The Hour will not arrive until there appears a fire from the land of Hijaaz that will illuminate the necks of camels in Busra (Busra is in the land of Sham: Syria and surrounding regions)." [Al-Bukhari] And Muslim related it through ibn Shihaab.
The Appearance Of A Fire In Madeenah That Continued To Rage For An Entire Month In The Year 654 H.
Shaikh Shihaabud-Deen Abu Shaamah, Shaikh of the Hadeeth scholars and historians during his era, mentioned that on Friday, the 5th of Jumaadah Al-Aakhirah, 654 H, there appeared a fire in lands near Madinah An-Nabawiyyah, in some of its surrounding valleys. It extended for four leagues lengthwise and four miles width-wise. Rocks would pour out until they remained like lead or molten tin, and then they became like black coals. By dint of the fire's light, people were able to travel to Teemaa. The fire remained ablaze for an entire month. The inhabitants of Madinah related this incident and some among them composed verses of poetry about it. Qaadi Al-Qudaat, Sadrud-Deen ‘Ali ibn Al-Qaasim Al-Hanafi, said that a Bedouin once told his father that on that night (i.e. the night of the fire), he was in Busrah and that the people there saw the necks of camels from the light of that fire, which was ablaze in the land of Hijaaz.
Narrations From The Prophet (saws) That Speak About The Unseen Future.
In a narration related by Tlyaan ibn Ahmad Al-Bakri, Abu Zaid Al-Ansari said, "The Prophet (saws) led us in the morning prayer, after which he climbed the pulpit and addressed us until Zhuhr. He (saws) descended, prayed 'Asr, and then climbed the pulpit again, speaking to us until the setting of the sun. He spoke to us about what was and what will be; he informed us (thereof) and made us memorize (that information)." [Musnad Ahmad]
The Prophet (saws) Gave News About Events From The Past And The Future, Covering The Span Of Time Until The Coming Of The Hour (i.e. The End Of This World).
'Umar ibn Al-Khattaab said, "Once, the Prophet (saws) stood before us and informed us about the beginning of the creation (and he spoke of what will occur) until the inhabitants of Paradise enter their final abodes and the people of the Hellfire enter their final abodes. Some memorized (that information) while others have forgotten it." [Al-Bukhari] Bukhari narrated this Hadeeth as an attachment and not as a part of his compilation, using phrases indicating that he was not sure about the chain.
Hudhaifah said, "The Messenger of Allah once rose, standing before us. He mentioned everything that was to occur from the time he stood there until the time of the Hour. Some memorized it while others forgot it... and something will happen (from what the Prophet (saws) mentioned) and I will recall it as a man recalls the face of another man who was absent for a while; then when he sees that face again, he recognizes it."
Hudhaifah Witnessed Some Of The Events That The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Prophesized About.
Abu Nusrah related that Abu Sa'eed said, "One day, after the Messenger of Allah (saws) led us in the 'Asr prayer, he stood and addressed us until the sun set. He spoke of everything that was to occur until the Day of Resurrection; some memorized his words while others forgot them. Among the things he said was, 'O people, indeed this world is green (i.e., it has in it beauty, greenery, etc.) and sweet, and indeed Allah has made you to dwell herein for succeeding generations, and He is seeing how you act. So take your precaution from this world and take your precaution from women.' He later on said, 'The time is indeed near when the sun will set. What remains of this world when compared to what is past is like what remains of this day of yours compared to the part of it that is gone.'" [Musnad Ahmad]
‘Ali ibn Zaid ibn Hadjaan, one of the narrators of this Hadeeth, has strange and Munkar narrations; nonetheless, this Hadeeth is supported by similar narrations. At any rate, no one knows exactly when this world will come to an end except for Allah.
There Is No Basis For Israelite Narrations That Specify How Long The World Will Remain.
Similarly, none knows how many years have gone by for human beings in the past except for Allah. Scholars have repudiated narrations found in the writings of the People of the Book which specify that period — with a number that is in the hundreds of thousands. (Christian and Jewish religious) scholars are worthy of such mistakes.
In another narration it is related that, "The world is one week from the weeks of the Hereafter (scholars have differed in their understanding of this narration; because a day in the Hereafter is 1000 years of this world, week is understood to mean 7000 years)."
However, the chain of this narration is weak; similarly all narrations that specify the exact time of the Day of Resurrection are weak, with chains that are not acceptable. Allah said:
"They ask you (O Muhammmad about the Hour - when will be its appointed time? You have no knowledge to say anything about it, to your Lord belongs (the knowledge of) the term thereof? You (O Muhammad are only a warner for those who fear it. The day they see it, (it will be) as if they had not tarried (in this world) except an afternoon or a morning." [79:42-46]
And Allah said:
"They ask you about the Hour (Day of Resurrection); "When will be its appointed time?" Say: "The knowledge thereof is with my Lord (Alone). None can reveal its time but He. Heavy is its burden through the heavens and the earth. It shall not come upon you except all of a sudden." They ask you as if you have a good knowledge of it. Say: "The knowledge thereof is with Allah (Alone) but most of mankind know not." [7:187]
"The Hour has drawn near, and the moon has been cleft asunder (the people of Makkah requested Prophet Muhammad to show them a miracle, so he showed them the splitting of the moon)." [54:1]
The Nearness Of The Hour.
It is related in a narration, "(So near is it at hand) that it has almost preceded me." This indicates its proximity in relation to the time that has gone by in this world. Allah says:
"Draws near for mankind their reckoning, while they turn away in heedlessness." [21:1]
"The Event (the Hour or the punishment of disbelievers and polytheists or the Islamic laws or commandments), ordained by Allah will come to pass, so seek not to hasten it. Glorified and Exalted is He above all that they associate as partners with Him." [16:1]
"Those who believe not therein seek to hasten it, while those who believe are fearful of it, and know that it is the very truth. Verily, those who dispute concerning the Hour are certainly in error far away." [42:18]
On The Day Of Resurrection, The Muslim Will Be Resurrected With Those Whom He Loves.
A Bedouin once asked the Messenger of Allah (saws) about the Hour, and he (saws) said, "Indeed it is happening (i.e. it will certainly come to pass), and what preparation have you made for it?" The man said, "By Allah, O Messenger of Allah, I have not prepared much in terms of prayer or action, but I do indeed love Allah and His Messenger." The Prophet (saws) said, "You are with those whom you loved." [Sahih Muslim] The Muslims never became as happy about something as they became with this Hadeeth.
Whoever Dies, Then His Hour Has Arrived.
In some narrations it is related that when the Prophet saws) was asked about the hour, he turned to a young boy and said, "He will not reach old-age until the Hour of all of you comes to you." [Sahih Muslim]
This means that their generation will become extinct and they will all have entered into the world of the Hereafter: whoever dies has in effect entered into the Hereafter. Some people say, "Whoever dies, then for him his Day of Resurrection has arrived." This statement, based on the understanding we have just indicated, is correct. However, some disbelievers might use this statement, intending falsehood by it. As for the greater Hour, when the first and last will be gathered on one plane, the timing thereof is something that Allah alone knows.
The Keys To The Unseen Are Five: None Knows Them Save Allah.
In an authentic Hadeeth the Prophet (saws) said that there are five matters regarding which none has knowledge save Allah. The Prophet (saws) then recited:
"Verily, Allah! With Him (Alone) is the knowledge of the Hour, He sends down the rain, and knows that which is in the wombs. No person knows what he will earn tomorrow, and no person knows in what land he will die. Verily, Allah is All-Knower, All-Aware (of things)." [31:34]
The Messenger Of Allah (saws) Did Not Know The Time Of The Hour
When Jibreel it came in the form of a Bedouin and asked the Prophet (saws) about Islam, then Iman, and then Ihsaan, the Prophet (saws) answered him. But when Jibreel asked about the Hour, the Prophet (saws) said, "The one who is questioned does not have more knowledge about it than the questioner."
[Imam Ibn Katheer's "Book of The End - Great Trials and Tribulations"]
No comments:
Post a Comment