(Sayyiduna Abu Zarr [radhiyallahu ‘anhu] – Part Four)

Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) held a very special position in the eyes of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). This deep bond becomes evident when one studies the events and incidents of his life. On one occasion, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) addressed him saying, “Indeed I love for you that which I love for myself.” (Saheeh Muslim #4720) This statement alone reflects the depth of affection Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) bore for him.

Furthermore, whenever Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was present, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would keep him near, and when he was absent, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would look for him. (Tabraani – Majma‘uz Zawaa-id #15793)

The Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) bore witness to the lofty status that Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) enjoyed in the sight of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Abud Dardaa (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) once said, “If Abu Zarr were to cut off one of my limbs, I would not be upset with him, because of what I heard Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) say regarding him.” (Al-Istee‘aab vol. 1, pg. 324)

Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was among the very first people to accept Islam. According to some narrations, he was the fourth or fifth person to accept Islam. (Al-Istee‘aab vol. 1, pg. 321) Even before the advent of Islam, he had never worshipped idols and firmly believed in one deity. (Siyaru Aa’laamin Nubalaa vol. 2, pg. 55)

Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was very eager to acquire the knowledge of Deen. Hence, he would frequently enquire from Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and acquired extensive knowledge from him.

Once, when Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was asked about Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), he said, “He attained such knowledge that others were unable to attain. He was eager and desirous – eager for his Deen and desirous of knowledge. He would ask many questions – sometimes (the answers) would be given, and sometimes withheld. Indeed, his container (of knowledge) was filled to its brim.” (Tabaqaat Ibni Sa’d vol. 2, pg. 354)

Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) himself once said, “Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) left us in a condition that no bird flaps its wings in the sky (i.e. not a moment goes by) except we remember some knowledge from him.” (Musnad Ahmad #21439)

Lessons:

1. To be beloved to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) is among the greatest honours a person can attain. It is a reflection of his sincerity, humility, steadfastness, and complete devotion to Allah Ta‘ala. Every believer can strive to attain the love of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) by performing righteous actions, upholding upright character and consistently embodying the sunnah in all aspects of life.

2. Acquiring adequate knowledge of Deen is an obligation upon every believer, for it enables one to worship Allah Ta‘ala correctly and live in accordance with His commands. This duty does not end with age or position, but continues throughout life. Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) embodied this perfectly — despite being among the earliest Muslims and among the closest to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), he remained eager to learn more.