^^Wa iyyakum to you both. May Allaah Subhanahu wa ta'ala guide us and bestow His blessings upon us all. Here’s some more info about the importance of the Day of Arafah and the benefits to be derived from fasting on that day. Fasting on this day is an expiation of sins for two years It was reported from Abu Qutaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was asked about fasting on the Day of ‘Arafaah. He said, “It expiates for the sins of the previous year and of the coming year.” Narrated by Muslim. This (fasting) is mustahabb for those who are not on Hajj. In the case of the one who is on Hajj, it is not Sunnah for him to fast on the Day of ‘Arafaah, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did not fast on this day in ‘Arafaah. It was narrated that he forbade fasting on the Day of ‘Arafaah in ‘Arafaah. It is the day on which Allaah took the covenant from the progeny of Adam It was reported that Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah took the covenant from the loins of Adam in Na’maan, i.e., ‘Arafaah. Hebrought forth from his loins all his offspring and spread them before Him, then He addressed them, and said: ‘Am I not your Lord? They said, ‘Yes, we testify,’ let you should say on the Day of Resurrection: ‘Verily, we have beenunaware of this.’ Or lest you should say: ‘It was only our fathers aforetime who took others as partners in worship along with Allaah, and we were (merely their) descendents after them; will You then destroy us because of the deeds of men who practised Al-Baatil (i.e., ploytheism and committing crimes and sins, invoking and worshipping others besides Allaah)?’ [al-A’raaf 7:172-173 – interpretation of the meaning].” Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani. And there is no greater day than this and no greater covenant than this. It is the day of forgiveness of sins, freedom from the Fire and pride in the people who are there In Saheeh Muslim it was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no day on which Allaah frees more people from the Fire than the Day of ‘Arafaah. He comes close and expresses His pride to the angels, saying, ‘What do these people want?’” It was reported from Ibn ‘Umar that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah expresses His pride to His angels at the time of ‘Ishaa’ on the Day of ‘Arafaah, about the people of ‘Arafaah. He says, ‘Look at My slaves who have come unkempt and dusty.’” Narrated by Ahmad and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani. It is a day by which Allaah swore an oath The Almighty cannot swear by anything except that which is mighty. Yawm ‘Arafaah is the “witnessed day” mentioned in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): “By the witnessing day [Friday] and by the witnessed day [the Day of ‘Arafaah].” [al-Burooj 85:3]. It was reported from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The promised day is the Day of Resurrection, the witnessed day is the Day of ‘Arafaah, and the witnessing day is Friday.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani. It is the “odd” [i.e., odd-numbered, Witr] by which Allaah swore in the aayah (interpretation of the meaning): “And by the even and the odd” [al-Fajr 89:3]. Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “The even is the Day of al-Adhaa [i.e., 10th Dhoo’l-Hijjah] and the odd is the Day of ‘Arafaah [i.e., 9th Dhoo’l-Hijjah] This is also the view of ‘Ikrimah and al-Dahhaak. It is the day on which the religion was perfected and Allaah’s Favour was completed In Al-Saheehayn it was reported from ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allaah be pleased with him) that a Jewish man said to him, “O Ameer al-Mu’mineen, there is an aayah in your Book which you recite; if it had come to us Jews, we would have taken that day as an ‘Eid (festival).” ‘Umar said, “Which aayah?” He said: “This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” [al-Maa’idah 5:3 – interpretation of the meaning]. ‘Umar said, “We know on which day and in which place that was revealed to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). It was when he was standing in ‘Arafaah on a Friday.” It is a day of Eid for the people who are in that place The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Yawm ‘Arafaah (the day of ‘Arafaah), Yawm al-Nahr (the Day of Sacrifice) and Ayyaam al-Tashreeq (the 3 days following Yawm al-Nahr) are Eid (festival) for us, the people of Islam. These are days of eating and drinking.” This was narrated by the authors of al-Sunan. It was reported that ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab said: “It – i.e., the aayah ‘This day I have perfected…’ was revealed on a Friday, the Day of ‘Arafaah, both of which – praise be to Allaah – are Eids for us.”

Even for those not performing the pilgrimage, Hajj, the first ten days of this month are considered very sacred and a time for increased reflection, seeking Allah's forgiveness, doing good and various other forms of worship. Let us all keep these days in mind and benefit from them Inshaa Allaah. Prophet Mohammed (peace and blessings be upon him) has said about the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah: "There are no deeds as excellent as those done in these ten days." They (the companions listening) said, "Not even Jihad?" He, peace be upon him, said, "No, not even Jihad except a man who goes forth endangering his life and wealth and does not return with anything." [Recorded by Imam al-Bukhari] So sacred are the first ten days of Zul Hijjah that Allah swears an oath by them when He says in the Quran: "By the dawn; by the ten nights" [al-Fajr 89:1-2]. Swearing an oath by something indicates its importance and great benefit. Ibn Kathir said that "the ten nights" referred to here are the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, and this opinion was also held by Ibn Abbas, Ibn az-Zubair, Mujahid and others. Ibn Hajar says in Fath al-Bari: "The most apparent reason for the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah being distinguished in excellence is due to the assembly of the greatest acts of worship in this period, i.e. salawat (prayers), siyam (fasting), sadaqah (charity) and the Hajj (pilgrimage). In no other periods do these great deeds combine." What kinds of worship should be performed? While any good deed done for the sake of Allah according to the way He approves will be rewarded immensely during the first ten days, Insha Allah, some of the more specific actions mentioned in the Traditions of the Prophet are fasting and verbal Zikr (remembrance) of Allah. Fasting - the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah In terms of fasting, it is particularly encouraged to fast on the ninth day of Zul-Hijjah, known in Arabic as Yawm Arafah. In 2013, day of Arafah will be on Monday 14th of October Inshaa Allaah. The Prophet SCW used to fast on this day (al Nisai and Abu Dawud). Fasting on this day will expiate a Muslim's sins for two years. In addition to the day of Arafah, its also recommended to fast the eight days at the start of Dhul-Hijjah before the Day of Arafah as the following Hadith indicates: Hunaydah ibn Khaalid narrated upon the authority of his wife who said, "Some of the wives of the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihiwasallam) told me that the Prophet (salallaahu 'alaihiwasallam) used to fast the Day of 'Aashoorah, the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah, and three days out of every month." (Imam Ahmad, An-Nasaaee; Imam Al-Albanee declared it Saheeh) The verbal remembrance of Allah is another meritorious act during these first ten days of Zul Hijjah. The Prophet upon him) encouraged Muslims to recite a lot of Tasbeeh ("Subhan-Allaah"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah") and Takbeer ("Allahu akbar") during this time. The Takbeer may include the words "Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, la ilaha ill-Allah; wa Allahu akbar wa Lillahi’l-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise)," as well as other phrases. Men are encouraged to recite these phrases out loud and women quietly. Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Hurayrah, two of the Prophet's Companions, used to go out in the marketplace during the first ten days of Zul-Hijjah, reciting Takbeer, and the people would recite Takbeer individually when they heard them. Generally, all good deeds are rewarded highly at this blessed time. These actions include praying, reading Quran, making Dua (supplication), giving in charity and being good to our families. Sincere repentance In addition, seeking Allah's forgiveness at this time is also encouraged. This means more than just a verbal expression of sorrow for past misdeeds. It also requires a firm resolution to avoid making the same mistakes in the future by giving up bad habits and behavior while sincerely turning to Allah.Repentance means coming back to Allaah and foregoing all the deeds, open and secret, that He dislikes, out of regret for what has passed, giving it up imme-diately and being determined never to return to it, but to adhere firmly to the Truth by doing what Allaah loves. If a Muslim commits a sin, he must hasten to repent at once, without delay, firstly because he does not know when he will die, and secondly because one evil deed leads to another. Repentance at special times is very important because in most cases people’s thoughts turn towards worship at these times, and they are keen to do good, which leads to them recognizing their sins and feeling regret for the past. Repentance is obligatory at all times, but when the Muslim combines sincere repentance with good deeds during the days of most virtue, this is a sign of success, in sha Allaah. Allaah says: {But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful} [al-Qasas 28:67]. The Muslim should make sure that he does not miss any of these important occasion, because time is passing quickly. Let him prepare himself by doing good deeds which will bring him reward when he is most in need of it, for no matter how much reward he earns, he will find it is less than he needs; the time of departure is at hand, the journey is frightening, delusions are widespread, and the road is long, but Allaah is ever watchful, and to Him will we return and render account. Allaah says: {So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it} [al-Zalzalah 99:7-8].

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Brothers and Sisters, Inshaa Allaah this will be my last post on this topic. I hope those who have read the posted incidents from the lives of the Sahabah (R.A) have found them beneficial. As a quick reminder, the aim of this thread was to discuss the lives of the Sahabah (R.A.) with an emphasis on the qualities they possessed as a group and as individuals. Although there were some references relating to their impressive triumph over the ancient empires of their time in a short period of time, this was not the aim behind this thread. The objective was for us to ponder over the various incidents about the noble lives of the Sahabah (R.A.) which were posted and draw lessons from them for our own lives Inshaa Allaah. You'll find every possible noble trait and virtue in the lives of the Sahabah (R.A.). If you desire to be of those who persistently repent to Allah SWT, then there is an example for you in the life of ‘Abdullah Ibn `Umar; if you believe seeking the truth for its own sake is honorable, then you'll be amazed by Salmaan Al-Faarisy and his quest in seeking the truth; and if avoiding hypocrisy is your aim, derive lessons from the life of Hudhaifah Ibn Al-Yammaan. The Sahabah (R.A) were an embodiment of righteousness and greatness. Some of the incidents of their lives and traits we covered (all of which contain lessons for us) in this thread included: - Their Iman, loyalty to Allaah SWT and his Messenger SCW - Quality of their Salaah - Fervour for knowledge - Gratitude, Kindness and Generosity - Sympathy and Self-sacrifice - Humility, foresight, understanding of leadership and wisdom - Abstinence, hardships they faced among other matters... As stated from the outset, learning about the lives of the Sahabah (R.A.) and following their example allows us to refine our character, increase in virtue, and perfect our Iman. This is because their teacher and example was none other than our beloved Rasulullah SCW. I’ll conclude by requoting the Hadith from Rasulullah SCW we started off with and what Abdullah bin Mas’ood (R.A.) had to say about the Sahabah (R.A.). It is related from 'Abdullah that the Prophet may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "The best of people are my generation and then those who follow them and then those who follow them. Then there will come people whose testimony will precede their oaths and whose oaths will precede their testimony." (Sahih Bukhari) Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (R.A) said, "Whoever wishes to follow anyone should follow the companions of Muhammad because from amongst the entire Ummah, their hearts are most righteous, their knowledge is deepest, they are the least pretentious, they are most unswerving in example and their (religious) condition is best. Allaah had selected them to be the companions of His Nabi SCW and to establish His Deen. You should therefore acknowledge their worth and follow in their footsteps because they had been fixed on upright guidance."( Ibn Abdul Birr in his Jaami (Vol.2 Pg.97). May Allah Subḥānahu wa ta'āla grant us the tawfiq to follow in the footsteps of our beloved Prophet SCW and his Companions. Allahumma salli ‘ala sayyidina Muhammad wa ‘ala aalihi wa sahbihi wa sallimu tasleema. Allahumma ameen.

As we enter the final days of the blessed month of Ramadhan, we can all appreciate the feeling of thirst and hunger which come with fasting. This is more apparent for those in hotter climates and longer fasting periods. With this in mind, we should reflect upon the intense thirst and hunger which the Sahabah experienced due to the immense sacrifices they made for the propagation of the Deen. The Intense Thirst that the Sahabah RA Suffered During the Expedition to Tabook Abdullaah bin Abbaas (RA) narrates that Umar (RA) was once asked to give an account of "The Hour of Difficulty" (the expedition to Tabook). Umar (RA) said, 'When we left for Tabook, the heat was intense and when we stopped over at a place, we were so thirsty that we thought our necks would fall off (that we would die). In fact, when any of us went out in search of his mount, he really thought that he would die by the time he returned. The situation was so severe that when one of us slaughtered a camel, he would extract the liquids from its entrails to drink and then rub the remainder on his stomach (so that the coolness could penetrate his stomach)." Abu Bakr (RA) then said, 'O Rasulullaah SCW, Allaah is always good to you so make du'aa to Allaah on our behalf.' 'Do you really want me to do so?' asked Rasulullaah SCW. 'Please do,' entreated Abu Bakr (RA). Rasulullaah SCW then raised his hands to the heavens (to make du'aa) and had not yet dropped his hands when clouds started gathering in the sky. First a drizzle fell and then the rains came pouring down. The Sahaba (RA) filled whatever containers they had and when we left the place, we discovered that the rain had not fallen further than the area where the army was camped." (Tafseer Ibn katheer (Vol.2 Pg.396). Abu Ubaydah RA and his Companions Experience Severe Hunger on a Journey Jaabir (RA) says, "Rasulullaah appointed Abu Ubaydah (RA) as our commander and sent us to intercept a caravan of the Quraysh. Unable to find anything else, we took a bag of dates with us for our provisions. From there, Abu Ubaydah (RA) used to give us each a single date." The narrator asked Jaabir (RA), "What would you do with just a single date?" He replied, "We would suck on it as a child suckles and then drink water. This would meet our requirements for the day until the night. We also used our staffs to bring leaves down from the trees, which we soaked in water to eat." (Bayhaqi as quoted in A1 Bidaaya wan Nihaaya (Vo1.4 Pg.276) A narration of Imaam Maalik states that a student of Jaabir (RA) asked him, "Of what use was the one date?" He replied, "When all the dates were finished, we missed even that one date." Some Sahabah RA Collapse in Salaah because of extreme Hunger and Weakness Fudhaala bin Ubayd (RA) narrates that when Rasulullaah SCW used to lead the salaah, many men used to collapse in the salaah because of starvation. They were the men of Suffa. (Seeing them) Some Bedouins would comment that they were insane. After completing the salaah, Rasulullaah would turn to them and say, "If you knew what Allaah has for you as reward for your suffering, you would wish that your hunger and poverty should increase." (Tirmidhi) The Extreme Hunger that Abu Hurayra RA Suffered Abdullaah bin Shaqeeq narrates that he stayed in the company of Abu Hurayra (RA) for a year in Madinah. One day, they were near the room of A'isha (RA), when Abu Hurayra said to him, "I saw the time when we had nothing to wear besides coarse cloths and days would pass when we would not have anything to eat that could keep our backs straight. Eventually, we had to tie stones to our stomachs and then wrap our clothes around so that we could keep our backs straight. (Ahmad as quoted in Targheeb wat Tarheeb (Vo1.5 Pg.177)

Abu Dhar Al-Ghifaariy Abu Dhar Al-Ghifaariy's story - even before he knew of Rasulullah’s SCW message – is one of the most noble endeavors in search of the Truth. His ardent search of the Truth led him to travel to Mecca as soon as he heard of Nabi Muhammad’s call to Islam. He converted instantly upon meeting Rasulullah SCW and hearing him speak about the Deen he was proclaiming. Despite the present dangers from the Quraysh, he immediately rose to declare his new faith in front of the Ka’bah. The following are a couple of short narrations regarding his early conversion to Islam. I would encourage you to read a more detailed account of his life – which is full of lessons for all of us. He is specially remembered as an outspoken and prominent critic of the improper use of public funds and the hoarders of wealth in general. Rasulullah SCW would later say about him: ‘Neither has the sky shaded one more truthful and honest than Abu Dhar nor has the earth had anyone walk over it like him’ (Tirmidhi) . Abu Dharr (RA) Dispatches His Brother when he Hears about the Nabuwaat of Rasulullaah SCW Abdullaah bin Abbaas (RA) narrates that when Abu Dharr (RA) heard that Rasulullaah was sent as a Rasul, he said to his brother, "Ride to that valley (of Makkah) and find out for me about the man who claims that he is a Rasul and that revelation comes to him from the heavens. Hear what he has to say and then report back to me." His brother arrived in Makkah, heard what Rasulullaah w said and then reported back to Abu Dharr (RA) saying, "I saw him teaching sterling character and reciting words that are not poetry." Abu Dharr (RA) said, "Your report has not informed me what I needed to know." Abu Dharr (RA) Arrives in Makkah, Accepts Islaam and is then made to Suffer for the sake of Allaah Abu Dharr (RA) took some provisions and a filled waterbag along with him and rode off to Makkah. When he entered the Masjidul Haraam, he searched for Rasulullaah SCW but did not recognise him. He did not want to ask anyone about Rasulullaah either and when night fell, he lay down to sleep. Ali (RA) saw him and realised that he was a stranger. Ali (RA) offered to be his host for the night and Abu Dharr (RA) went with Ali (RA) with either person asked the other any questions until morning. Abu Dharr (RA) took his waterbag and provisions along with him to the Masjidul Haraam and spent the day there. However, when evening arrived, he had not yet seen Rasulullaah SCW. He had returned to the place where he intended to lie down when Hadhra Ali (RA) passed by and said, "Has the man not yet found his destination?" Ali (RA) then helped him up and took him home without any of them exchanging questions. When things turned out the same on the third day and Abu Dharr (RA) again stayed with Ali (RA), Ali (RA) asked, "Will you not tell me what brings you here?" .Abu Dharr (RA) replied, "I shall inform you if you give me your word that you would give me proper direction." When Ali (RA) agreed, Abu Dharr (RA) informed him. Ali (RA) said, "It is true that he is the Rasul of Allaah. Follow me closely tomorrow morning. If I see anything that may jeopardise your safety, I shall stop I shall stop with the pretence of needing to relieve myself (but you should proceed). When I continue walking, you should follow me once more and enter the place I enter. Abu Dharr (RA) did this and followed in the footsteps of Ali until Ali (RA) came to Rasulullaah and Abu Dharr (RA) entered with him. Abu Dharr (RA) listened to Rasulullaah SCW and accepted Islaam on the spot. Rasulullaah said to him, "Return to your people and convey the message to them until I send further instructions." .Abu Dharr (RA) said, "I swear by the Being Who controls my life that I shall shout it aloud amongst them all!" He then proceeded to the Masjidul Haraam where he called out at the top of his voice: "I testify that there is none worthy of worship but Allaah and that Muhammad is Allaah's Rasul." The Mushrikeen then beat him to the ground. Abbaas (RA) arrived and threw himself over Abu Dharr (RA) (to shield him) saying 'Fools! Don't you realise that he belongs to the Ghifaar tribe and that your traders have to pass them on the route they use to Shaam?!" In this manner, Abbaas (RA) saved him. The following day, Abu Dharr (RA) repeated himself and the Mushrikeen again assaulted him and Abbaas (RA) had to throw himself over him (to save him). - Bukhari (Vol.1 Pg.544). Abu Dharr (RA) narrates further, "The following day I returned and repeated what I had said the previous day. The people again called out 'Grab that heretic' and they did what they had done the previous day. Abbaas (RA) found me there and threw himself over me and again told the people what he had told them the previous day. - Bukhari (vol.1 Pg.500).

The Hijrah (Migration) of the Sahabah These incidents highlight how the Sahabah (RA) left their beloved homeland of Makkah, an act which was extremely difficult for them. The incidents also highlight how making Hijrah was more beloved to them than the world and all its pleasures and that they gave preference to the Deen above mundane pleasures. Their Hijrah did not only take them to Madinah but they travelled from place to place seeking the freedom to practice and protect the Deen which they valued more than anything else in this world. The First Person to Migrate from Makkah to Madinah Baraa bin Aazib (RA) said, "The first from amongst the Muhaajireen to come to us was Mus'ab bin Umayr (RA) who belonged to the Banu Abdid Daar tribe. Then came Ibn Ummu Maktoom (RA) who was a blind man belonging to the Banu Fihr tribe. Thereafter, Umar bin Khattaab arrived with twenty mounted men. When we asked him what had happened to Rasulullaah SCW, he said that Rasulullaah SCW was coming after him. Rasulullaah SCW and Abu Bakr (RA) arrived afterwards. By the time Rasulullaah SCW arrived, I had already learnt several Surahs from the Mufassal Surahs." (Bukhari) The Hijrah of Uthmaan Bin Affaan Qataadah (RA) says, "I heard Nadhar bin Anas say that he heard Abu Hamza viz. Anas (RA) say, ' Uthmaan (RA), left for Abyssinia with his wife Ruqayya (RA) who was the daughter of Rasulullaah SCW. News about them was slow in reaching Rasulullaah SCW until a woman from the Quraysh came to him and said, '0 Muhammad! I have seen your son-in-law with his wife.' 'How were they?' asked Rasulullaah SCW. She said, 'I saw him mount his wife on a very weak donkey as he drove it along from the rear.' Rasulullaah SCW commented, 'May Allaah go with them. Uthmaan is the first person to migrate (with his family) after Lut Alaihisalam.'"(Bayhaqi, as quoted in Al Bidaaya wan Nihaaya (Vo1.3 Pg.66). The Virtues of those Sahabah RA who Migrated to Abyssinia and then to Madinah Khaalid bin Sa'eed bin Al Aas (RA) and his brother Amr (RA) were amongst those who migrated to Abyssinia. He narrates that it was a year after the Battle of Badr that they returned from Abyssinia and Rasulullaah SCW met them when they arrived. Because they were sad that they were unable to be participate in the Battle of Badr, Rasulullaah SCW said to them, "Why should you be sad? Whereas other people have undertaken only one Hijrah, you have undertaken two. You made Hijrah when you went to the king of Abyssinia and after returning from him, you made Hijrah to me." (Ibn Asaakir) Suhayb (RA) Arrives in Quba Where Rasulullaah Gives him the Glad Tidings of a Verse of the Qur'aan that Allaah had Revealed about him Suhayb (RA) narrates that when he decided to migrate from Makkah to Rasululaah SCW, the Quraysh said to him, "0 Suhayb! When you came to us, you had no wealth. You are now leaving as a wealthy man. By Allaah! We can never allow this!" Suhayb (RA) proposed to them, 'Will you let me go if I give you all my wealth?" When they agreed, he gave his wealth to them and they let him go. By the time Suhayb (RA) reached Madinah, Rasulullaah was already aware of the incident and said, "You've earned a grand profit, O Suhayb! You've earned a grand profit, 0 Suhayb!" (Ibn Katheer in his Tafseer (Vol.1 Pg.247) Anas (RA) has narrated a similar report with the addition that it was on that occasion that Allaah revealed the following verse of the Qur'aan: From mankind is he who would sell himself seeking Allaah's pleasure and Allaah is Most Compassionate towards His bondsmen. {Surah Baqarah, verse 207) The Hijrah of Abdullaah bin Umar Muhammad bin Zaid narrates that whenever Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) passed by his house (in Makkah) from which he migrated, he would close his eyes and would not even look at it or stop there. Another narration states that whenever Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) spoke about Rasulullaah SCW, he would cry and whenever he passed his house (in Makkah), he would close his eyes. (Bayhaqi)

Imaan (Belief) In Allaah SWT and His Attributes A Sahabi Recites Surah Ikhlaas in Abundance Aa'isha (RA) narrates that a Sahabi whom Rasulullaah SCW dispatched as commander of an expedition used to lead his companions in Salaah but would always conclude (the Rakaah) by reciting Surah Ikhlaas. When they returned and reported this to Rasulullaah SCW, he told them to ask him why he did this. When they asked him, he replied, "(I recite it so often) Because it discusses the attributes of Ar Rahmaan. I therefore love to recite it." Rasulullaah then told the Sahabah, "Inform him that Allaah loves him as well." (Bayhaqi in his Asmaa was Sifaat (Pg.208), as quoted by Bukhaari and Muslim as well) The Narration of Hadhrat Aa'isha RA concerning the Lady who Debated Aa'isha RA said, "All praise belongs to Allaah Who hears everything. The Mujaadalah (the lady who debated) came to speak with Rasulullaah SCW and although I was in the corner of the room, I heard nothing. Allaah then revealed the verse: Certainly has Allah heard the speech of the one who argues with you, [O Muhammad], concerning her husband and directs her complaint to Allah . And Allah hears your dialogue; indeed, Allah is Hearing and Seeing. (Surah Mujadila, verse 1) Aa'isha RA said, "Blessed is that Allaah Whose hearing captures everything. As I was listening to Khowla bint Tha'laba complain to Rasulullaah SCW about her husband, there were words that I could not hear. '0 Rasulullaah she said, 'He has consumed my wealth, finished my youth and my womb has even borne him children. Eventually, when I have grown old and I can no longer bear children, he has practiced Zihaar (a form of divorce during the time) with me’. She then prayed, '0 Allaah! To You do I place my complaint.' She had not yet stood up when Jibra'eel Alaihissalam arrived with the verse: Certainly has Allah heard the speech of the one who argues with you, [O Muhammad], concerning her husband and directs her complaint to Allah . And Allah hears your dialogue; indeed, Allah is Hearing and Seeing. (Surah Mujadila, verse 1) Her husband was Aws bin Saamit (Ibn Abi Haatim, as quoted in the Tafseer of Ibn Katheer (Vo1.4 Pg.318).

Tawakkul (Trust in Allaah) of the Sahabah RA These narrations relate the complete trust and reliance the Sahabah had in Allaah SWT. Tawakkul is such an importance concept in Islam which we should all strive to achieve. As Allaah SWT says: ‘And upon Allah let those who would rely [indeed] rely’(Surah Ibrahim, verse 12). The Tawakkul of Ameerul Mu'mineen Ali Ibn Abi Talib (RA) Yahya bin Murrah narrates, "When Ali (RA) used to go to the Masjid at night to perform Nafl salaah, we would also go with him to guard him. After completing his salaah, he would ask us, 'What are you sitting here for?' When we informed him that we were there to guard him, he asked, 'Is it against the inhabitants of the heavens that you are guarding me or against the inhabitants of the earth?' 'Only from the inhabitants of the earth,' we submitted. He then said, 'Nothing happens on earth until it is decided in the heavens. There are two angels assigned to every person who protect and guard him. However, when a predestined matter arrives, they leave him to it. I therefore have a fortified shield from Allaah which will leave me only when death arrives. No person can taste the sweetness of Imaan until he is convinced that whatever (difficulty) afflicts him would never have passed him by and whatever (good) passes him by would never have come to him in the first place. (Abu Dawood and Ibn Asaakir) The Tawakkul of Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) Abu Dhabiyya reports that when Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) was on his deathbed, Uthmaan bin Afaan (RA) visited him. ''What is the problem?" Uthmaan (RA) asked. "My problem is my sins," Abdullah bin Mas'ood (RA) replied. Uthmaan (RA) asked further, "What do you wish for?" Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) replied, "For the mercy of my Rabb." Uthmaan (RA) then asked, "Should I not have a physician see you?" (Referring to the fact that Allaah Is the greatest of curers,) Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) said, "It was the physician (Allaah) Who gave me the illness." Uthmaan (RA) further asked, "Should I then not have an allowance fixed." "I have no need for an allowance," Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) assured him. "But it would belong to your daughters after your demise," Uthmaan (RA) explained. "Do you fear that my daughters would suffer poverty after my death?" Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) asked in surprise. He then continued, "I have instructed my daughters to recite Surah waaqi'ah every night because I have heard Rasulullaah SCW say that poverty shall never ever afflict the person who recites Surah waaqi'ah every night. (Ibn Asaakir, as quoted in the Tafseer of lbn Katheer (VolA Pg.281).

The Weeping of the Sahabah These narrations relate instances of the Sahabah weeping when in Salat; in recitation of Qur’an as well as when contemplating matters of the Aakhira. This is in stark contrast to our hardened hearts. The hearts of the Sahabah were as described in the following verse of Surah Al-Anfal. The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts become fearful, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord they rely {Surah Al-Anfal, verse 2). The Weeping of Umar (RA) Hasan bin Muhammad bin Ali bin Abi Taalib (RA) states that during the Friday sermon, Umar (RA) used to recite the Surah Takweer until he reached the verse: A soul will [then] know what it has brought [with it]. {Surah Takweer, verse 14} At this point, his voice would stop (because of his excessive weeping). Ubayd bin umayr (RA) reports that Umar (RA) once led them in the Fajr salaah and started reciting Surah Yusuf. However, he started weeping and had to stop when he reached the verse: (Referring to Ya'qoob AS, Allaah says): And he turned away from them and said, "Oh, my sorrow over Joseph," and his eyes became white from grief, for he was [of that] a suppressor. {Surah Yusuf, verse 84} Abdullah bin Shaddaad bin Haad narrates that even while standing in the last rows of the congregation he could hear the sobbing of Umar (RA) during the Fajr salaah. Umar (RA) was reciting Surah Yusuf and (because of his excessive weeping, he had to stop when he) reached the verse: He said, "I only complain of my suffering and my grief to Allah, and I know from Allah that which you do not know.{Surah Yusuf, verse 86} The Weeping of Mu'aadh (RA) Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) narrates that Umar (RA) once passed by Mu'aadh bin Jabal (RA) who was weeping. 'What makes you weep?" Umar (RA) enquired. Mu'aadh (RA) replied, A Hadith that I heard from Rasululaah SCW (which states that); 'Indeed the tiniest amount of ostentation is tantamount to Shirk and the people most beloved to Allaah are those with Taqwa who are anonymous. They are those who will not be missed if they are not there and will not be recognised when they are present. These people are the torchbearers of guidance and the beacons of knowledge." The Weeping of Abdullaah bin Umar Naafi reports that there was not a single occasion when Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) did not weep when reciting the following verses of Surah Baqarah: Whether you show what is within yourselves or conceal it, Allah will bring you to account for it. Then He will forgive whom He wills and punish whom He wills, and Allah is over all things competent. {Surah Baqarah, verse 284} He would then say, ''Verily, this accountability is a grave matter. Naafi also reports that Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) would cry uncontrollably whenever he recited the verse: Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah and what has come down of the truth? {Surah Hadeed, verse 16} The Weeping of Abdullaah bin Abbaas RA Abdullaah bin Abu Mulaykah says, "I accompanied Abdullaah bin Abbaas ~ from Makkah to Madinah and wherever he set up camp,he stood in salaah for half the night." When Ayyoob asked him what Abdullaah bin Abbaas' recitation of the Qur'aan was like, he replied, "He once cried painfully as he continuously recited the following verse with slow intonation; And the intoxication of death will bring the truth; that is what you were trying to avoid.{Surah Qaaf, verse 19} Abu Rajaa (RA) says, ''The lines on the face of Abdullaah bin Abbaas (RA) where his tears ran resembled two old shoe straps." The Weeping of Abu Hurayrah (RA) Muslim bin Bishr reports that when Abu Hurayrah (RA) was weeping during his illness (before his death), someone asked him what it was that made him weep. He replied, "Take note that it is not for this world of yours that I am weeping. I am weeping because of the long journey ahead and the deficiency of my provisions. I have now climbed a rise that leads down either to ]annah or to Jahannam and I know not towards which of the two I shall be heading."

The Gratitude of the Sahabah How grateful are we for the Bounties Allaah SWT has blessed us with? The Sahabah RA were grateful to Allaah for every bounty. They didn't categorize bounties into great/small. Every bounty from Allaah SWT was great in their eyes. The Gratitude Umar (RA) Showed to Allaah for Elevating his Status Sulaymaan bin Yasaar narrates that when Umar (RA) once passed by a place called Dajnaan, he said, "I once saw myself grazing animals in this place for (my father) Khattaab. By Allaah! As far as I know, he was a stern and harsh man. (By the grace of Allaah) I then became the guide of the Ummah of Muhammad SCW.He then recited the following couplets (which mean): "There is nothing in the things you see besides superficial enjoyment While wealth and children are temporary, all that shall remain is Allaah" The Statement of Umar (RA) Concerning a Leper Ikramah (RA) reports that Umar (RA) once passed by a leper who was also blind, deaf and dumb. Addressing the people with him, Umar (RA) asked, "Do you see any of Allaah's bounties in this man?" When the people replied that they saw none, Umar (RA) said, "Why not? Do you not see that he is able to urinate with ease without the urine holding back or coming out with difficulty? This is an extremely great bounty from Allaah." Umar’s Letter to Abu Moosa Ash'ari and his Statement Concerning People who are Grateful Hasan Basri narrates that Umar (RA) wrote the following letter to Abu Moosa Ash'ari (RA): "Be content with the sustenance Allaah provides for you in this world because Allaah gives more sustenance to some of His servants and less to others to test all of them. He tests those whom He has given plenty to see whether they are grateful. His gratitude to Allaah fulfils the duty he owes to Allaah for the sustenance and bounties Allaah has blessed him with." Umar (RA) once said, "The grateful ones always received more from Allaah so seek more from Allaah. This is because Allaah says: And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; The Statement of Ali (RA) Concerning Bounties and Gratitude Ali (RA) once said, "Every bounty should be followed by gratitude and gratitude is followed by an increase (in the bounty). Gratitude and an increase in bounties are directly proportional to each other. Therefore, Allaah will never stop increasing the bounties on His servant until the servant stops being grateful (in which case they stop)." The Statements of Abu Dardaa (RA), Aa'isha (RA) and Asmaa (RA) Concerning Gratitude Abu Dardaa (RA) said, 'When a night or a day passes without people seeing me suffer any difficulty, I see this as an extremely great bounty from Allaah." Another narration quotes him as saying; ''The person who sees Allaah's bounties only in food and drink has a limited understanding and has his punishment ever present." Aa'isha (RA) once said, "Gratitude is binding on the person who drinks even plain water that enters his body without difficulty and then exits without difficulty." When (her son) Abdullaah bin zubayr (RA) was martyred, Asmaa bint Abu Bakr (RA) happened to lose something that Rasulullaah SCW gave her and which she kept in a bag. When she finally found it after some searching, she fell into Sajdah (in gratitude to Allaah).

The humility of the Sahabah The humility of the Sahabah was unparalleled. Here are just a few examples of their humility. Ali (RA) said: "Three Factors form the Core of Humility" Ali (RA) once said, "Three factors form the core of humility: “That one is first to greet whoever one meets, that one is content with an inferior position in a gathering rather than one of superiority and that one dislikes ostentation and boastfulness." Umar (RA) Ridicules Himself in his Sermon Umar Makhzoomi reports that Urnar bin Khattaab (RA) once made an announcement for the people to gather in the Masjid. The people got together and when a large number had gathered, Umar (RA) mounted the pulpit. After duly praising Allaah and sending salutations on Rasulullaah SCW, he said, "0 people! I have seen the time when I used to graze animals for my maternal aunts from the Banu Makhzoom tribe. (As wages) They would then give me a handful of dates and raisins. I would then spend the entire day doing this and what days they were?!" When Umar (RA) descended from the pulpit, Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf (RA) said, "0 Ameerul Mu'mineen! All you have done is ridicule yourself." Shame on you, 0 Ibn Auf!" Umar (RA) exclaimed, ''When I was alone by myself, the thought came to mind that since I am the Ameerul Mu'mineen, there must be none better than me. (By doing what I did) I wanted to remind myself who I used to be." Another narration states that Umar (RA) added, "0 people! I have seen the time when I had no source of livelihood apart from a few handfuls of raisins that my aunts from the Banu Makhzoom tribe would give me for bringing water for them." This narration ends with the words, "I found some pride in myself and therefore wished to humble myself (by telling the people what I did)." Umar (RA) rides a camel on his journey to Shaam Aslam reports that when Umar (RA) arrived in Shaam riding a camel, the people started talking amongst themselves (that he should have rather chosen a good horse for the journey). To this, Umar (RA) remarked, "Their gazes are on the conveyances of people (the Kuffaar) who have no portion (in the Aakhirah). They had rather look to the conveyances used by Rasulullaah SCW and the Muslims." Umar (RA) Teaches Women how to make Flour Hishaam narrates that he once saw Umar (RA) pass by a woman who was busy making Aseedah (a paste made from flour and clarified butter). "That is not how Aseedah is made," said Umar (RA). He then took a wooden spoon and showed her how to make it saying, "This is how it is done." Hishaam bin Khaalid says that he heard Umar bin Khattaab (RA) say (as he taught some women to make Aseedah), ''You should never add the flour until the water is hot. When the water gets hot, you should then add the flour gradually as you stir with a spoon because it will then mix well without forming lumps." Umar (RA) and Uthmaan (RA) allow People to Ride with them on their Animals The grandfather of Maalik say that he saw Umar (RA) and uthmaan (RA) when they arrived from Makkah and camped at a place called Mu'arras (Dhul Hulayfah). when the party rode again to enter Madinah, everyone of them took a youngster to ride with him. In this manner, they entered Madinah. Even Umar (RA) and Uthmaan (RA) had someone riding with them. One of the narrator's students asked, "Did they do this because of humility?" The reply was, "Certainly. In addition to this, they also wished to benefit others (so that the person need not walk) and did not want to be like other rulers (who feel it below their dignity to allow a commoner to ride with them)." The narrator then proceeded to criticise the new trend (of rulers) to make youngsters walk behind them as they rode. The Humility of Uthmaan Hasan says, "I saw Uthmaan (RA) sleeping in the Masjid covered in a shawl. Although he was then the Ameerul Mu'mineen, there was none around him." The Humility of Ameerul Mu'mineen Ali (RA) Zaadhaan reports that even as Ameerul Mu'mineen, Ali (RA) used to walk alone in the marketplace where he would guide lost people, announce lost items and assist the weak. When passing by traders and grocers, he would open the Qur'aan and recite to them: That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous {Surah Qasas, verse 83} He would then say, "This verse was revealed with reference to rulers and people with authority over others who (despite their positions, they) exercise justice and are humble”. The Humility of Salmaan Faarsi Thaabit reports that Salmaan (RA) was the governor of Madaa'in when a man arrived from Shaam carrying figs. Because Salmaan (RA) was wearing his simple lower garment and shawl, the man (not recognising Salmaan (RA) and thinking him to be a common labourer) called to him saying, "Come and carry this!" Salmaan (RA) obliged and when the people saw him and recognised who he was, they exclaimed, "This is the governor!" When the man pleaded that he did not recognise Salmaan (RA) (and wished to take the load back), Salmaan (RA) said to him, "Leave it until I reach your destination," The Humility of Abdullaah bin Salaam Abdullaah bin Salaam (RA) was once passing through the marketplace carrying a bundle of wood when someone said to him, "What makes you do this when Allaah has freed you from it (you can always get someone else to do it for you)?" Abdullaah bin Salaam (RA) replied, "I wish to ward off pride because I have heard Rasulullaah SCW say, 'The person in whose heart is an iota of pride will not enter Jannah."

In the preceding post, one of the Sahabi whose character Rasulullah SCW praised is Abu 'Ubaydah Ibn Al-Jarraah. Let us learn more about the attributes of his noble character and why Rasulallah SCW gave him the title 'The Trustworthy of This Nation' The following is taken from the book titled 'Men Around The Messenger' which is available here - http://www.kalamullah.com/books.html ABU `UBAIDAH IBN AL-JARRAAH - The Trustworthy of This Nation Who was the man whose right hand the Prophet (PBUH) held and said, `In every nation there exists a man worthy of all trust and the trustworthy of this nation is Abu `Ubaidah lbn Al- Jarraah." Who was the man whom the Prophet sent with reinforcements to `Amr Ibn Al-'Aas in the Dhaat As-Salaasil Expedition and made commander of the army that included `Umar and Abu Bakr? Who was this Companion who was the first to be called the Commander of the Commanders? Who was that tall, slim man with gaunt face? Who was that strong, trustworthy man about whom `Umar lbn Al Khattaab said on his deathbed, "If Abu `Ubaidah Ibn Al-Jarraah were alive, I would have entrusted him with the caliphate, and if Allah asked me about him, I would say, I assigned the caliphate to the trustworthy of Allah and His Prophet, Abu `Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarraah. He embraced Islam at the hands of Abu Bakr As-Siddiiq at the dawn of Islam, even before the Prophet walked into Daar Al-Arqam. He emigrated to Abyssinia during the second emigration, then returned to stand by the Prophet at Badr, Uhud, and the rest of the great battles. Even after the Prophet's death, he continued to be strong and trustworthy in his striving during the caliphates of Abu Bakr and the Commander of the Faithful `Umar. He renounced the world and endured its hardships. He pursued his Islam with an admirable asceticism, piety, firmness, and trustworthiness. When Abu `Ubaidah took the oath of allegiance to the Messenger and dedicated his life in the way of Allah, he knew exactly what those words "in the way of Allah" meant. When Abu `Ubaidah fulfilled his pledge as other Companions did, the Prophet saw in his conscientiousness and life style that which made him worthy of the epithet he had given him, namely, "The Trustworthy of This Nation" Abu `Ubaidah's trustworthiness towards his responsibilities was one of his most outstanding traits. For instance, in the Battle of Uhud, he realized from the way the battle was conducted that the disbelievers' first priority was to kill the great Messenger (PBUH). To them, achieving victory was of secondary importance compared to killing the Prophet. Therefore, he decided to stay very close to where he was. Abu Ubaidah thrust his sword into the army of paganism that craved to put out the light of Allah once and for all. Whenever the fierce fight led him far away from the Prophet, he fought ferociously while his eyes were fixed on where the Prophet stood, watching him with great concern. Whenever Abu `Ubaidah saw a potential danger approaching the Prophet, he jumped swiftly to send the enemies of Allah on their heels before they could injure the Prophet. Finally, he managed to disperse them and darted towards the Messenger, who was wiping the noble blood that ran down his face with his right hand, then exclaimed, `How can they succeed after they tinged with blood the face of their Prophet who invites them to the way of Allah?" When Abu `Ubaidah saw the two rings of the Prophet's chain mail that had pierced his cheeks, he rushed and held the first one with his front teeth and pulled it out. Yet as it fell, it took out his upper front teeth as well, and the same thing happened to the lower front teeth when he pulled out the second ring. When the Prophet (PBUH) appointed him as a commander in Al-Khabat Expedition, he had no supplies except for a knapsack full of dates. Notwithstanding the difficult mission and long distance, Abu `Ubaidah withstood this against all odds with tremendous self-denial and joy. He and his soldiers marched for miles with nothing to eat but a few dates daily until they ran out of dates and had to pick up withered leaves with their bows and crush and swallow them with water. Hence, the expedition was called Al-Khabat (i.e. The Struggle). They proceeded regardless of the danger and the risks. They did not worry about starvation or deprivation. The only thing that mattered to them was to accomplish their glorious mission under the leadership of their strong and trustworthy commander. The Prophet (PBUH) loved this trustworthy one of his nation so much that he gave him preference over everyone else. For instance, when the Najraan delegation arrived from Yemen after they had embraced Islam, they asked the Prophet to send someone to them to teach them the Qur'aan, the Sunnah, and Islam. The Prophet told them, "I will send you a trustworthy man, a very trustworthy man. When the Companions heard this praise, every one of them prayed that the Prophet meant him with this praise and sincere recommendation. `Umar Ibn Al-Khattaab (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated thus. I have never craved command in my life except on that day, in hope that I would be the man whom the Prophet held in such high esteem. Therefore, I went in intense heat to perform my Dhuhr prayer. When the Prophet finished leading the prayer, he looked to his right, then to his left. I stood on my toes to draw his attention to me, yet he kept on looking round until he saw Abu `Ubaidah Ibn Al-Jarraah and ordered him, "Go with them and judge in fruth between them in the matters in which they dispute." Afterwards, Abu `Ubaidah traveled with them. When Khaalid Ibn Al-Wallid was the commander of the Muslim armies in one of the great decisive battles, the first action of `Umar Ibn Al-Khattaab, the new caliph at the time, was to dismiss Khaalid and assign Abu Ubaidah in his place. When Abu `Ubaidah received the message from `Umar he decided to conceal its purport. He pleaded with the messenger to keep it a secret with great admirable asceticism, intelligence, and fidelity. When Khaalid achieved his great victory, and only then, did Abu `Ubaidah relay to him the message with extraordinary politeness. On reading the Khaalid asked him, `May Allah bestow His mercy on you, Abu `Ubaidah. What made you keep that message from me?" The Trustworthy of the Nation answered, "I was afraid lest it should cause any confusion that might affect the army's morale. We do not crave life or its splendor. We are brothers before Allah." Thus, Abu `Ubaidah was assigned as the commander-in -chief in Syria. His army was the mightiest and best equipped among the Muslim armies. You could hardly distinguish him from the rank and file of the army. He was always unassuming. When he heard that the people of Syria were infatuated by him and by his new rank, he asked them to assemble, then addressed them saying, "Fellow men, I'm a Muslim from the Quraish tribe. I will follow any of you like his shadow regardless of the color of his skin, if he is more pious and righteous than me." May Allah greet you, Abu `Ubaidah. May Allah bless the religion that refined you and the Prophet who instructed you. He said that he was a Muslim from the Quraish. His religion was Islam and his tribe was Quraish. For him, this sufficed as an identification. His being the commander -in-chief, the leader of the greatest Muslim army in number, equipment, and victory and the obeyed and respected ruler of Syria were not privileges in themselves. He was not ensnared by the web of conceit or haughtiness. As a matter of fact, all these titles and high positions were the means to a sublime ultimate end. One day, the Commander of the Faithful visited Syria and asked those who were at his reception, "Where is my brother?" They asked, "Who do you mean?" He answered, "Abu `Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarraah." Soon Abu `Ubaidah arrived and hugged Umar, then he invited him over to his house, where he had no furniture. In fact, he had nothing but a sword, a shield, and a saddlebag. `Umar asked him, smiling, "Why don't you furnish your house as people do?" Abu `Ubaidah readily answered, "O Commander of the Faithful, as you see, I have a room to sleep in and that is enough for me." One day as the Commander of the Faithful Umar "Al-Faruuq" was conducting the affairs of the vast Muslim world, he received the sad news of Abu `Ubaidah's death. He tried to control himself, but his sadness got the better of him and his tears flowed. He asked Allah to bestow His mercy on his brother. He recalled his memories with Abu `Ubaidah (May Allah be pleased with him) with patience and tenderness. He exclaimed, "If I were to make a wish, I would have wished a house full of men just like Abu `Ubaidah." The Trustworthy of This Nation died in the land which he had purified from the paganism of the Persians and the oppression of the Romans. Today in Jordan lie his noble remains which once were full of life, goodness, and satisfaction. It does not matter if you know where he is buried or not, for if you want to find his grave, you will need no guide; the fragrance of his remains will lead you to it.

The noble traits of the Sahabah are so myriad and wondrous. The following narrations relate how the Sahabah RA respected, admired and honoured one another. The most illustrious of them practiced such modesty in front of his fellow Sahabah that they would diminish their own unique traits and instead chose to praise their companions. Rasulullah SCW also praised the Sahabah (RA) and testified to their noble traits. May we all follow in their noble examples and strive to improve our own character. Rasulullaah SCW Testifies to the Excellent Character of Abu Ubaydah (RA) Hasan reports that Rasulullaah SCW once said, "If I chose to do so, I could take each of my companions to task for aspects of their character except for Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah" (RA). Rasulullaah SCW says that the Character of Uthmaan (RA) is Closest to his Own Abdur Rahmaan bin Uthmaan Qurashi narrates that RasululIaah SCW once visited his daughter as she was washing the head of (her husband) Uthmaan (RA). Addressing her, Rasulullaah SCW said, "Beloved daughter! Treat Abu Abdullaah (Uthmaan RA) well because from all my companions, his character is closest to my own." Rasulullaah SCW's Comments about the Character of Ja'far (RA), Zaid (RA), Ali (RA) and Abdullaah bin J a ‘f (RA) Ali (RA) narrates, "Ja'far (RA), Zaid (RA)and I once came to Rasulullaah SCW. Rasulullaah SCW said to Zaid (RA), 'You are our brother and friend.' Zaid (RA) sKipped with joy. Rasulullaah SCW then said to Ja'far (RA), 'You resemble me both in looks and in personality'. Ja'far (RA) then skipped about even more than Zaid (RA). Thereafter, Rasulullaah SCW said to me, 'You are from me and I from you.' I therefore skipped about more than Zaid (RA) and Ja'far (RA). Usaamah bin Zaid (RA) reports that Rasulullaah SCW once said to Ja'far (RA), "Your personality is like mine and your physical appearance also resembles my own. You are therefore from me. And you, 0 Ali. You are also from me and the father of my grandsons." The Statement of Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) Regarding, Uthmaan (RA) and Abu Ubaydah (RA) Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) says, "There are three men from the Quraysh who are the most handsome, have the best character and have the most resolute sense of modesty. when they speak to you, they can never be lying and when you speak to them, they will never regard you as a liar. They are Abu Bakr Siddeeq (RA), Uthmaan bin Affaan (RA) and Abu Ubaydah bin Jarraah (RA). Another narration states that Abdullaah bin Umar (RA) said, "There are three men from the Quraysh who are the most handsome, have the best character and have the strongest sense of modesty. They are Abu Bakr (RA), Uthmaan (RA) and Abu Ubaydah (RA). The Excellent Character of Mus'ab (RA) and Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) Aamir bin Rabee'ah (RA) says, " Mus'ab bin Umayr (RA) was a friend of mine from the time he accepted Islaam up to the time that he was martyred at Uhud. May Allaah shower His mercy on him. He accompanied us on both migrations to Abyssinia and was my travelling companion. I must say that I have never seen a person with better character than him nor one who had fewer differences with people than he." Habba bin Juwayn reports that they were once with Ali (RA) when they started to mention some of the statements of Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA) praising him, someone said (to Ali), "0 Ameerul Mu'mineen we have never seen a man with better character, nor anyone who teaches as compassionately. nor anyone who is better company nor anyone more pious than Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (RA)." Ali (RA) asked, "I ask you to say in the name of Allaah whether this is the truth in your hearts." When they expressed that it was, Ali (RA) remarked, "0 Allaahl I make You the Witness that my opinion of him ( Abdullaah bin Mas'ood ) is as these people have expressed or even better." Another narration states that in praise for Abdul1aah bin Maslood (RA), the person even added, "He reads the Qur'aan, regarding what it makes lawful as lawful and what it forbids as forbidden. He has a deep understanding of the Deen and has immense knowledge of the Sunnah."

The Sahabah (ra) Visit each Other Anas (ra) reports that Rasulullaah SCW used to forge a bond of brotherhood between every two Sahabah. (The bond became so strong that) the night would seem extremely long for each one of the two until he had met his brother. They would show great love and affection to each other when they did meet and would ask each other what he had done since they last met. As for the others (between whom no bonds were formed), not even three days would pass any of them without him getting to know what had happened to his brother. A narration states that when the companions of Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (ra) came to see him, he said, "Do you people sit in each other's company?" "That we do not omit," they replied. "Do you still visit each other?" he enquired further. "Certainly, 0 Abu Abdur Rahmaan," they replied, "When one of us does not see his brother, he would go walking to the end of Kufa to meet him." Abdullaah bin Mas'ood (ra) then remarked, "You people will certainly remain in good stead as long as you keep doing this." Ummu Dardaa (ra) says that Salmaan (ra) once came walking all the way from Madaa'in to visit them (her husband Abu Dardaa (ra) in Shaam. He was then wearing a short shawl that just covered his knees. Fulfilling the Need of a Muslim Ali (ra) once said. "I cannot say which of the two favours of Allaah to me are greater. Whether it is a man coming to me with the sincere belief that I am able to fulfil his need or whether it is the favour of Allaah fulfilling his need or at least alleviating some of it at my hand. Fulfilling the need of a Muslim is something I love more than the earth full of gold and silver." Walking to Fulfil the Needs of a Muslim: Abdullaah bin Abbaas (ra) Leaves His I'tikaaf to Fulfil a Need of a Muslim Abdullaah bin Abbaas (ra) was once observing I'tikaaf in the Masjid of Rasulullaah SCW when a man came to him. After the man had greeted with Salaam and sat down, Abdullah bin Abbaas (ra) said, "It seems that you are extremely concerned about something?" "That is true, 0 cousin of Rasulullaah SCW the man replied, "I am indebted to someone and I swear by the honour of the occupant of this grave (Rasulullaah SCW) that I am unable to settle it." "Should I speak to him on your behalf?" Abdullaah bin Abbaas (ra) offered. "if you please," the man replied. Abdullaah bin Abbaas (ra) then put on his shoes and left the Masjid. The man called out, "Have you forgotten what you were engaged in (your I'tikaaf)?" "NO," Abdullaah bin Abbaas (ra) replied, "It is something that I heard from the occupant of this grave and it was not a long time ago." His eyes then welled with tears as he continued, "I heard him say, 'Whoever walks to fulfil the need of a Muslim and applies himself in this regard, it will be better for him than ten years of I'tikaaf. As for the one who spends a single day in I'tikaaf for the pleasure of Allaah, Allaah will place between him and the fire of Jahannam three trenches larger than the distance between the heavens and the earth."