📖Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2347
Abu Umamah narrated that the Prophet (s.a.w) said: “Indeed the best of my friends to me is the one of meager conditions, whose share is in Salat, worshipping his Lord well and obeying him (even) in private. He is obscure among the people such that the fingers are not pointed towards him. His provisions are only what is sufficient and he is patient with that.” Then he tapped with his fingers and said: “His death comes quickly, his mourners are few, and his inheritance is little.”With this (the above), chain it is narrated that the Prophet (s.a.w) said: “My Lord presented to me, that He would make the valley of Makkah into gold for me, I said: ‘No O Lord! But being filled for a day and hungry for a day”-or he said: “three days” or something like that- “So when I am hungry, I would beseech You and remember You, and when I am full I would be grateful to You and praise You.”
From this hadith, we can learn several lessons:
- The value of a humble and pious friend: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) states that the best friend to him is someone of modest means, who is devout in their worship and obedient to Allah even in private. This highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who prioritize their spiritual connection with God.
- Contentment with little: The hadith mentions that the person of meager conditions is satisfied with what is sufficient for them. This teaches us the virtue of being content with what we have and not constantly desiring more wealth or possessions.
- Obscurity and humility: The individual described in the hadith remains obscure among people, and their modesty prevents them from seeking attention or recognition. This emphasizes the importance of humility and avoiding ostentation in our actions and deeds.
- Patience in the face of hardships: The person described in the hadith is patient despite their limited provisions. This encourages us to cultivate patience and perseverance during times of difficulty or scarcity.
- The transient nature of life: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) indicates that such individuals may have a shorter lifespan, fewer mourners at their funeral, and minimal inheritance. This serves as a reminder of the impermanence of worldly life and the importance of focusing on the eternal life to come.
- Balance and moderation: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declines the offer of having the valley of Makkah turned into gold, preferring to experience periods of hunger and need. This teaches us the value of balance and moderation in our desires and material possessions. It is a reminder to be grateful in times of abundance and to remember and seek God during times of hardship.
Overall, this hadith encourages us to prioritize our spiritual connection with Allah, be content with what we have, remain humble and patient, and seek a balanced and moderate approach in our lives.
