Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4474-4572

Volume 6- Book 65 Prophetic Commentary on the Qur’an (Tafseer of the Prophet (pbuh)

Surat al-Fatiha (The Opening)

1. What has been said about Fãtihat al-Kitab (i.e., the Opening of the Book)

It is also called Umm-ul-Kitab (the Mother of the Book) because it is the first Surah written in the copies of the Qur’an, and the first Surah recited in the prayer.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4474

Narrated Abu Sa‘id bin Al-Mu‘alla:
While I was praying in the mosque, Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) called me, but I did not respond. Later I said, “O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! I was praying.” He said, “Didn’t Allah say: Give your response to Allah and to His Messenger when he calls you (8:24)?” He then said, “I will teach you a Surah which is the greatest Surah in the Qur’an before you leave the mosque.” Then he held my hand, and when he intended to leave, I said to him, “Didn’t you say that you would teach me a Surah which is the greatest in the Qur’an?” He said, “Al-Hamdu lillahi Rabbi-l-‘alamin (All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds). It is the Sab‘a al-Mathani (seven oft-repeated verses) and the Grand Qur’an which has been given to me.”

2–Not the way of those who earned Your Anger, nor of those who went astray” (1:7)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4475

Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “When the Imam says: Ghair-il-Maghdubi ‘alaihim wa la-dallin (not the way of those who earn Your Anger, nor the way of those who went astray), then you must say Ameen. If one’s utterance of Ameen coincides with that of the angels, his past sins will be forgiven.”

Surat al-Baqarah (The Cow)

1-The Statement of Allah: “And He taught Adam all the names” (2:31)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4476

Narrated Anas:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “On the Day of Resurrection, the believers will assemble and say, ‘Let us ask someone to intercede for us with our Lord.’ They will go to Adam and say, ‘You are the father of mankind. Allah created you with His own Hands, ordered the angels to prostrate to you, and taught you the names of all things. Intercede for us with your Lord so that He may relieve us from this place.’ Adam will say, ‘I am not fit for this,’ and he will recall his sin and feel ashamed. He will tell them to go to Noah, the first messenger sent to the people of the earth.

They will go to Noah, who will say, ‘I am not fit for this,’ and recall his supplication about something of which he had no knowledge, and he will feel ashamed. He will direct them to Abraham, the Friend of the Merciful. Abraham will say, ‘I am not fit for this. Go to Moses, a servant to whom Allah spoke and gave the Torah.’ They will go to him, but he will mention his killing of a man and feel ashamed before his Lord, and he will tell them to go to Jesus, the servant and messenger of Allah, His word and a spirit from Him.

Jesus will say, ‘I am not fit for this. Go to Muhammad (peace be upon him), a servant whose past and future sins were forgiven.’ They will come to me, and I will go forward to seek permission from my Lord, and I will be granted permission. When I see my Lord, I will fall in prostration. He will let me remain as long as He wills, then it will be said: ‘Raise your head. Ask and you will be granted. Speak and you will be heard. Intercede and your intercession will be accepted.’

I will raise my head and praise Allah with words He will teach me, then I will intercede. A limit will be set for me, and I will admit them into Paradise. Then I will return and repeat the same, and another group will be admitted into Paradise. This will happen a third time, and then a fourth. I will say, ‘None remains in Hell except those whom the Qur’an has bound in it and upon whom eternity has been decreed.’” Abu Abdullah (al-Bukhari) said: “Those whom the Qur’an has bound in Hell” refers to Allah’s statement: They will dwell therein forever (16:29).

3-The Statement of Allah “…Then do not set up rivals unto Allah (in worship) while you know (that He Alone has the right to be worshipped)…” (V.2:22)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4477

Narrated Abdullah:
I asked the Prophet (peace be upon him), “What is the greatest sin in the sight of Allah?” He said, “That you set up a rival unto Allah while He alone created you.” I said, “That is indeed a great sin.” I asked, “What is next?” He said, “That you kill your child for fear that he may share your food with you.” I asked, “What is next?” He said, “That you commit illegal sexual intercourse with your neighbor’s wife.”

4-“And We shaded you with clouds and sent down on you manna and quails…” (2:57)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4478

Mujahid said: Al-Manna is a kind of sweet gum, and As-Salwa is a type of bird (quail).

Narrated Sa‘id bin Zaid:
Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “The Kam’a (a kind of edible fungus) is like the manna (in that it comes without effort), and its water is a cure for eye disease.”

5-“And when We said: Enter this town and eat bountifully therein…” (2:58)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4479

Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “It was said to the Children of Israel: ‘Enter the gate (of the town) prostrating and say Hittatun (i.e. O Allah forgive our sins).’ But they entered dragging themselves on their buttocks and changed what they were commanded. They said instead: Hittatun – a grain in a hair.”

–6-“Whoever is an enemy to Jibril (Gabriel)…” (2:97)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4480

Narrated Anas:
Abdullah bin Salam heard the news of the arrival of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) in Medina while he was in his orchard. He came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and said, “I will ask you three things which none but a prophet can know. What is the first sign of the Hour? What will be the first meal for the people of Paradise? What causes a child to resemble his father or mother?”

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Gabriel has just informed me.” Abdullah said, “Gabriel?” He replied, “Yes.” Abdullah said, “He is the enemy of the Jews among the angels.” Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) recited: Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel—for he has brought the Qur’an down to your heart by Allah’s permission… (2:97).

He added, “The first sign of the Hour will be a fire that gathers people from east to west. The first meal of the people of Paradise will be the extra lobe of a fish’s liver. As for resemblance, if the man’s discharge precedes the woman’s, the child will resemble the father. If the woman’s discharge precedes the man’s, the child will resemble the mother.”

Abdullah said, “I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and that you are the Messenger of Allah. The Jews are liars, and if they know I have embraced Islam, they will accuse me of lying.”

Later, some Jews came, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked them, “What is Abdullah bin Salam’s status among you?” They said, “He is the best of us, the son of the best of us, our leader and the son of our leader.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “What if Abdullah embraces Islam?” They said, “May Allah protect him from this!” Then Abdullah came out and declared, “I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” The Jews said, “He is the worst of us, the son of the worst of us,” and they criticized him. Abdullah said, “O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! This is what I was afraid of.”

(7) His Statement: “Whatever a Verse (revelation) do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, We bring a better one or similar to it…” (V.2:106)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4481

Narrated Ibn Abbas: Umar said, “Our best Qur’an reciter is Ubai and our best judge is Ali. And in spite of this, we leave some of the statements of Ubai because Ubai says, ‘I do not leave anything that I have heard from Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him).’ But Allah has said: ‘Whatever verse do We abrogate or cause to be forgotten, We bring a better one or similar to it.’ (2:106)”

(8) “And they (pagans, Jews and Christians) say: ‘Allah has begotten a son (children or offspring).’ Glory is to Him… (V.2:116)”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4482

Narrated Ibn Abbas: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Allah said: ‘The son of Adam tells a lie against Me though he has no right to do so, and he abuses Me though he has no right to do so. As for his telling a lie against Me, it is that he claims that I cannot recreate him as I created him before. And as for his abusing Me, it is his statement that I have offspring. No! Glorified be Me! I am far from taking a wife or offspring.'”

(9) “…And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (Abraham) as a place of prayer…” (V.2:125)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4483

Narrated Anas: Umar said, “I agreed with Allah in three things—or my Lord agreed with me in three things. I said, ‘O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! Would that you took the station of Abraham as a place of prayer.’ I also said, ‘O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! Good and bad persons visit you. Would that you ordered the Mothers of the Believers to cover themselves with veils.’ So the Divine Verses of Hijab (veiling) were revealed. I came to know that the Prophet (peace be upon him) had blamed some of his wives, so I entered upon them and said, ‘You should either stop (troubling the Prophet) or else Allah will give His Messenger better wives than you.’ When I came to one of his wives, she said to me, ‘O Umar! Does Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) not have what he could advise his wives with, that you try to advise them?’ Then Allah revealed: ‘It may be, if he divorced you, his Lord will give him instead of you wives better than you, Muslims (who submit to Allah)…’ (66:5)”

(10) “And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) and (his son) Isma’il (Ishmael) were raising the foundations of the House (Ka’bah at Makkah)…” (V.2:127)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4484

Narrated Aisha: Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Don’t you see that when your people built the Ka’bah, they did not build it on all of Abraham’s foundations?” I said, “O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! Why don’t you rebuild it on Abraham’s foundations?” He said, “Were your people not so close to the period of Heathenism, I would do so.” Abdullah bin Umar said: “Aisha had surely heard Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) saying that, for I do not think that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) left touching the two corners of the Ka’bah facing Al-Hijr except because the Ka’bah was not built on all Abraham’s foundations.”

(11) “Say (O Muslims), We believe in Allah and that which has been sent down to us…” (V.2:136)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4485

Narrated Abu Huraira: The people of the Scripture (Jews) used to recite the Torah in Hebrew and explain it in Arabic to the Muslims. On that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Do not believe the people of the Scripture or disbelieve them, but say: ‘We believe in Allah and what is revealed to us.’ (2:136)”

(12) The Statement of Allah: “The fools (pagans, hypocrites and Jews) among the people will say, ‘What has turned them (Muslims) from their Qiblah [Salat (prayer) direction towards Jerusalem]…” (V.2:142)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4486

Narrated Al-Bara: The Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed facing Bait-ul-Maqdis (Jerusalem) for sixteen or seventeen months, but he wished that his Qibla would be the Ka‘ba (at Mecca). So Allah revealed (2:144), and he offered Asr prayer in his mosque facing the Ka‘ba at Mecca and some people prayed with him. A man from among those who had prayed with him went out and passed by some people offering prayer in another mosque, and they were in the state of bowing. He said, “I swear by Allah, I testify that I have prayed with the Prophet (peace be upon him) facing Mecca.” Hearing that, they turned their faces to the Ka‘ba while still bowing. Some men had died before the Qibla was changed towards the Ka‘ba. They had been killed and we did not know what to say about them. So Allah revealed: “And Allah would never make your faith (prayers) to be lost. Truly Allah is Full of Pity, Most Merciful towards mankind.” (2:143)

(13) The Statement of Allah: “Thus We have made of you [true Muslims, real believers of Islamic Monotheism, true followers of Prophet Muhammad and his Sunna], a just (and the best) nation, that you may be witnesses over mankind, and the Messenger (Muhammad) will be a witness over you…” (V.2:143)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4487

Narrated Abu Sa‘id Al-Khudri: Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Noah will be called on the Day of Resurrection and he will say, ‘Labbaik and Sa‘daik, O my Lord!’ Allah will say, ‘Did you convey the Message?’ Noah will say, ‘Yes.’ His nation will then be asked, ‘Did he convey the Message to you?’ They will say, ‘No Warner came to us.’ Then Allah will say to Noah, ‘Who will bear witness in your favor?’ He will say, ‘Muhammad and his followers.’ So they (Muslims) will testify that he conveyed the Message. And the Apostle (Muhammad) will be a witness over yourselves. That is what is meant by Allah’s Statement: ‘Thus We have made of you a just and the best nation, that you may be witnesses over mankind, and the Apostle will be a witness over yourselves.’ (2:143)”

(14) The Statement of Allah: “…And We made the Qiblah (prayer direction towards Jerusalem) which you used to face, only to test those who followed the Messenger (Muhammad)…” (V.2:143)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4488

Narrated Ibn Umar: While some people were offering Fajr prayer in the Quba’ mosque, someone came and said, “Allah has revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him) Qur’anic instructions that you should face the Ka‘ba while praying.” So they turned towards the Ka‘ba.

(15) The Statement of Allah: “Verily! We have seen the turning of your (Muhammad’s) face towards the heaven…” (V.2:144)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4489

Narrated Anas: None remains of those who prayed facing both Qiblas (Jerusalem and Mecca) except myself.

(16) The Statement of Allah: “And even if you were to bring to the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) all the proofs, they would not follow your Qiblah (prayer direction)…” (V.2:145)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4490

Narrated Ibn Umar: While some people were offering morning prayer at Quba’, a man came to them and said, “A Qur’anic order has been revealed to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) tonight that he should face the Ka‘ba at Mecca in prayer, so you too should turn your faces towards it.” At that moment their faces were towards Sham (Jerusalem), so they turned towards the Ka‘ba.

(17) “Those to whom We gave the Scripture (Jews and Christians) recognise him (Muhammad or the Ka‘ba at Makkah) as they recognise their sons…” (V.2:146)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4491

Narrated Ibn Umar: While some people were offering Fajr prayer at Quba’ mosque, someone came to them and said, “Tonight Qur’anic Verses have been revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him), and he has been ordered to face the Ka‘ba at Mecca during prayers. So you too should turn your faces towards it.” At that time their faces were towards Sham (Jerusalem), so they turned towards the Ka‘ba at Mecca.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4492

(18) “For every nation there is a direction to which they face (in their prayers)…” (V.2:148)
Narrated Al-Bara: We prayed along with the Prophet (peace be upon him) facing Jerusalem for sixteen or seventeen months. Then Allah ordered him to turn his face towards the Qibla (in Mecca): “And from whence-so-ever you start forth (for prayers) turn your face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque (Al-Masjid-ul-Haram).” (2:149)

(19) “And from wheresoever you start forth (for prayers) turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Haram (at Makkah)…” (V.2:149)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4493

Narrated Ibn Umar: While some people were at Quba’ offering morning prayer, a man came to them and said, “Last night Qur’anic Verses have been revealed whereby the Prophet (peace be upon him) has been ordered to face the Ka‘ba at Mecca, so you too should face it.” So they, keeping their postures, turned towards the Ka‘ba. Formerly the people were facing Sham (Jerusalem). Allah said: “And from whence-so-ever you start forth (for prayers), turn your face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque of Mecca, and whence-so-ever you are, turn your faces towards it (when you pray).” (2:150)

(20) “And from wheresoever you start forth (for prayers), turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid-al-Haram (at Makkah), and wheresoever you are, turn your face towards it [when you pray]…” (V.2:150)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4494

Narrated Ibn Umar: While some people were offering Fajr prayer at Quba’ mosque, someone came to them and said, “Qur’anic revelation has been revealed to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) tonight, and he has been ordered to face the Ka‘ba, so you too should turn your faces towards it.” Their faces were towards Sham (Jerusalem), so they turned towards the Qibla (Ka‘ba of Mecca).

(21) The Statement of Allah: “Verily! Safa and Al-Marwa (two mountains in Makkah) are of the Symbols of Allah…” (2:158)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4495

Narrated Urwa:
I said to Aisha, the wife of the Prophet, and I was at that time a young boy, “How do you interpret the Statement of Allah: ‘Verily, Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah. So it is not harmful for those who perform the Hajj to the House of Allah or perform the Umra, to ambulate (Tawaf) between them.’ In my opinion it is not sinful for one not to ambulate (Tawaf) between them.” Aisha said, “Your interpretation is wrong, for as you say, the Verse should have been: ‘So it is not harmful for those who perform the Hajj or Umra to the House not to ambulate (Tawaf) between them.’ This Verse was revealed in connection with the Ansar who, during the Pre-Islamic Period, used to visit Manat (an idol) after assuming their Ihram, and it was situated near Qudaid, and they used to regard it sinful to ambulate between Safa and Marwa after embracing Islam. When Islam came, they asked Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) about it, whereupon Allah revealed: ‘Verily, Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah. So it is not harmful for those who perform the Hajj of the House (of Allah) or perform the Umra, to ambulate (Tawaf) between them.'”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4496

Narrated Asim bin Sulaiman:
I asked Anas bin Malik about Safa and Marwa. Anas replied, “We used to consider going around them a custom of the Pre-Islamic period of Ignorance, so when Islam came, we gave up going around them. Then Allah revealed: ‘Verily, Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah. So it is not harmful for those who perform the Hajj of the House (of Allah) or perform the Umra, to ambulate (Tawaf) between them.'” (2:158)

(22) The Statement of Allah: “And of mankind are some who take (for worship) others besides Allah as rivals. They love them as they love Allah…” (2:165)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4497

Narrated Abdullah:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said one statement and I said another. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever dies while still invoking anything other than Allah as a rival to Allah will enter Hell.” And I said, “Whoever dies without invoking anything as a rival to Allah will enter Paradise.”

(23) “O you who believe! Al-Qisas (the Law of Equality in punishment) is prescribed for you…” (2:178)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4498

Narrated Ibn Abbas:
The law of Qisas (equality in punishment) was prescribed for the children of Israel, but the Diya (blood money) was not ordained for them. So Allah said to this Nation (Muslims): “O you who believe! The law of Al-Qisas is prescribed for you in cases of murder: The free for the free, the slave for the slave, and the female for the female. But if the relatives of the killed person forgive the killer by accepting blood money, then the relatives should demand it in a reasonable manner and the killer must pay with handsome gratitude. This is an alleviation and a Mercy from your Lord, in comparison to what was prescribed for the nations before you. So after this, whoever transgresses the limits shall have a painful torment.” (2:178)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4499

Narrated Anas:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The prescribed Law of Allah is the equality in punishment (Al-Qisas).”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4500

Narrated Anas:
That his aunt, Ar-Rubai’ broke an incisor tooth of a girl. My aunt’s family requested the girl’s relatives for forgiveness but they refused; then they proposed a compensation, but they refused. Then they went to Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) and refused everything except Al-Qisas. So Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) passed the judgment of Al-Qisas. Anas bin Al-Nadr said, “O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! Will the incisor tooth of Ar-Rubai be broken? No, by Him Who sent you with the Truth, her incisor tooth will not be broken.” Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “O Anas! The prescribed law of Allah is equality in punishment.” Thereupon those people became satisfied and forgave her. Then Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “Among Allah’s worshippers there are some who, if they took Allah’s oath, Allah fulfills their oaths.”

(24) “O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you that you may become Al-Muttaqun.” (2:183)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4501

Narrated Ibn Umar:
Fasting was observed on the day of Ashura (10th of Muharram) by the people of the Pre-Islamic Period. But when the order of compulsory fasting in the month of Ramadan was revealed, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “It is up to one to fast on it (Ashura) or not.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4502

Narrated Aisha:
The people used to fast on the day of Ashura before fasting in Ramadan was prescribed, but when the order of fasting in Ramadan was revealed, it was up to one to fast on it (Ashura) or not.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4503

Narrated Abdullah:
That Al-Ash’ath entered upon him while he was eating. Al-Ash’ath said, “Today is Ashura.” I said, “Fasting had been observed on such a day before the order of compulsory fasting in Ramadan was revealed. But when the order of fasting in Ramadan was revealed, fasting on Ashura was given up, so come and eat.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4504

Narrated Aisha:
During the Pre-Islamic Period of ignorance the Quraish used to observe fasting on the day of Ashura, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) himself used to fast on it too. But when he came to Medina, he fasted on that day and ordered the Muslims to fast on it. When the order of fasting in Ramadan was revealed, fasting in Ramadan became an obligation, and fasting on Ashura was given up. Whoever wished to fast did so, and whoever did not wish to fast did not fast.

(25) The Statement of Allah: “[Observing Saum (fasts)] for a fixed number of days but if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days. And as for those who can fast with difficulty (e.g., an old man, etc.) they have (a choice, either to fast or) to feed a Miskin (poor person) (for every day). But whoever does good of his own accord, it is better for him. And that you fast is better for you, if only you know.” (2:184)

‘Ata said, “One may stop fasting if one is suffering from any kind of disease, as Allah says concerning nursing or pregnant women.” Al-Hasan and Ibrahim said, “If they are afraid of harming themselves or their babies, they can give up fasting for the time being and make up for the missed fasts later on. If an old man has no strength to observe fast, he can feed a poor person daily. When Anas bin Malik became old, he used to provide a poor person with bread and meat every day while he gave up fasting during the last one or two years of his life.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4505

Narrated ‘Ata: He heard Ibn ‘Abbas reciting the Divine Verse: “And for those who can fast they had a choice either fast, or feed a poor for every day..” (2:184). Ibn ‘Abbas said, “This Verse is not abrogated, but it is meant for old men and old women who have no strength to fast, so they should feed one poor person for each day of fasting (instead of fasting).”

(26) “So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan, i.e., is present at his home), he must observe Saum (fast) that month…” (2:185)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4506

Narrated Nafi‘: Ibn ‘Umar recited: “They had a choice, either fast or feed a poor for every day..” and added, “This Verse is abrogated.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4507

Narrated Salama: When the Divine Revelation, “For those who can fast, they had a choice either fast, or feed a poor for every day,” (2:184) was revealed, it was permissible for one to give a ransom and give up fasting, until the Verse succeeding it was revealed and abrogated it.

(27) “It is made lawful for you to have sexual relation with your wives on the night of As-Saum (the fasts) … (till) … and seek that which Allah has ordained for you (offspring)…” (2:187)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4508

Narrated Al-Bara’: When the order of compulsory fasting of Ramadan was revealed, the people did not have sexual relations with their wives for the whole month of Ramadan, but some men cheated themselves by violating that restriction. So Allah revealed: “Allah is aware that you were deceiving yourselves but He accepted your repentance and forgave you.” (2:187)

(28) “…And eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of the night)…” (2:187)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4509

Narrated Ash-Shu‘bi: ‘Adi took a white rope (or thread) and a black one, and when some part of the night had passed, he looked at them but could not distinguish one from the other. The next morning he said, “O Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him)! I put a white thread and a black thread underneath my pillow.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Then your pillow is too wide if the white thread (of dawn) and the black thread (of the night) are underneath your pillow!”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4510

Narrated ‘Adi bin Hatim: I said, “O Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him)! What is the meaning of the white thread distinct from the black thread? Are these two threads?” He said, “You are not intelligent if you watch the two threads.” He then added, “No, it is the darkness of the night and the whiteness of the day.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4511

Narrated Sahl bin Sa‘d: The Verse “And eat and drink until the white thread appears to you distinct from the black thread.” was revealed, but “…of dawn” was not revealed along with it. So some men, when intending to fast, used to tie their legs, one with a white thread and the other with a black thread, and would keep on eating until they could distinguish one thread from the other. Then Allah revealed “…of dawn,” whereupon they understood that it meant the night and the day.

(29) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “It is not righteousness that you enter houses from the back, but righteousness is the quality of the one who fears Allah. So enter houses through their doors, and fear Allah that you may be successful.” (2:189)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4512

Narrated Al-Bara: In the pre-Islamic period when the people assumed Ihram, they would enter their houses from the back. So Allah revealed: “And it is not righteousness that you enter houses from the back, but the righteous man is he who fears Allah, obeys His orders and keeps away from what He has forbidden. So enter houses through their doors.” (2:189)

(30) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And fight them until there is no more Fitnah (disbelief and worshipping of others along with Allah), and the religion (worship) will be for Allah alone. But if they cease, let there be no transgression except against the wrong-doers.” (2:193)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4513, 4514, 4515

Narrated Nafi: During the affliction of Ibn Az-Zubair, two men came to Ibn Umar and said, “The people are lost, and you are the son of Umar and the companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him), so what forbids you from coming out?” He said, “What forbids me is that Allah has prohibited the shedding of my brother’s blood.” They both said, “Didn’t Allah say: ‘And fight them until there is no more affliction’?” Ibn Umar said, “We fought until there was no more affliction and the worship was for Allah alone. But you want to fight until there is affliction and until the worship becomes for other than Allah.”

Nafi also narrated: A man came to Ibn Umar and said, “O Abu Abdur Rahman! What made you perform Hajj in one year and Umra in another year, and leave Jihad though you know how much Allah recommends it?” Ibn Umar replied, “O son of my brother! Islam is founded on five principles: belief in Allah and His Messenger, the five compulsory prayers, the fasting of Ramadan, the payment of Zakat, and the Hajj to the House of Allah.”

The man said, “O Abu Abdur Rahman! Don’t you hear what Allah mentions in His Book: ‘If two groups of believers fight each other, then make peace between them, but if one transgresses against the other, then fight against the one that transgresses’ (49:9), and: ‘Fight them until there is no more affliction’?” Ibn Umar said, “We did that during the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) when Islam had few followers. A man would be persecuted for his religion and either killed or tortured. But when Muslims increased, there was no more affliction.”

The man asked, “What is your opinion about Uthman and Ali?” Ibn Umar said, “As for Uthman, it seems Allah has forgiven him, but you dislike that he should be forgiven. As for Ali, he is the cousin of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) and his son-in-law.” Then he pointed with his hand and said, “That is his house which you see.”

(31) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And spend in the cause of Allah and do not throw yourselves into destruction, and do good. Truly, Allah loves the good-doers.” (2:195)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4516

Narrated Abu Wail: Hudhaifa said, “The verse: ‘And spend (of your wealth) in the Cause of Allah and do not throw yourselves into destruction’ (2:195) was revealed concerning spending in Allah’s cause (i.e., Jihad).”

(32) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And whosoever of you is ill or has an ailment in his scalp…” (2:196)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4517

Narrated Abdullah bin Maqal: I sat with Ka’b bin Ujra in Kufa Mosque and asked him about the meaning of: “Pay a ransom (i.e., Fidya) of either fasting or feeding the poor or offering a sacrifice.” (2:196) He said, “I was taken to the Prophet (peace be upon him) while lice were falling on my face. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, ‘I did not think that your trouble had reached such an extent. Can you afford to slaughter a sheep?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Then fast three days, or feed six poor persons by giving half a Sa of food to each, and shave your head.’ So the verse was revealed especially for me, and generally for all of you.”

(33) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And whosoever performs Umra in the months of Hajj before performing the Hajj (i.e., Hajj At-Tamattu and Al-Qiran)…” (2:196)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4518

Narrated Imran bin Husain: The verse of Hajj-at-Tamattu was revealed in Allah’s Book, so we performed it with Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him), and nothing in the Qur’an was revealed to prohibit it, nor did the Prophet (peace be upon him) forbid it until he died. But a man afterward expressed his own opinion.

(34) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “There is no sin on you if you ask the Bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage by trading)…” (2:198)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4519

Narrated Ibn `Abbas: Ukaz, Mijanna, and Dhul-Majaz were markets during the Pre-Islamic period. Muslims considered it a sin to trade there during the Hajj season, so this Verse was revealed: “There is no harm for you if you seek of the Bounty of your Lord during the Hajj season.” (2:198)

(35) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “Then depart from the place whence all the people depart…” (2:199)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4520

Narrated Aisha: The Quraish people and those who embraced their religion used to stay at Muzdalifa and called themselves Al-Hums, while the rest of the Arabs stayed at Arafat. When Islam came, Allah ordered His Prophet to go to Arafat and stay there, and then pass on from there. That is the meaning of the Statement of Allah: “Then depart from the place whence all the people depart…” (2:199)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4521

Narrated Ibn Abbas: A man who wants to perform Hajj (from Mecca) can perform Tawaf around the Kaba as long as he is not in the state of Ihram until he assumes Ihram for Hajj. Then, if he rides to Arafat, he should take a Hadi (sacrifice) — a camel, cow, or sheep — whatever he can afford. If he cannot afford it, he should fast for three days during Hajj before the day of Arafat. If the third day coincides with the day of Arafat (9th Dhul-Hijja), there is no sin in fasting that day. He should stay at Arafat from the time of Asr prayer until darkness falls. After departing Arafat, pilgrims reach Jam’ (Al-Muzdalifa) where they remember Allah greatly and say Takbir and Tahlil repeatedly before dawn. After Fajr prayer, they should pass on to Mina, performing the ritual of throwing pebbles over Jamra, as Allah said: “Then depart from the place whence all the people depart. And ask for Allah’s Forgiveness. Truly! Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (2:199)

(36) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And of them there are some who say: ‘Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good…'” (2:201)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4522

Narrated Anas: The Prophet (peace be upon him) used to say, “O Allah! Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good and save us from the torment of the Fire.” (2:201)

(37) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “…Yet he is the most quarrelsome of the opponents.” (2:204)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4523

Narrated Aisha: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The most hated man in the Sight of Allah is the one who is the most quarrelsome.”

(38) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “Or think you that you will enter Paradise without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you?” (2:214)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number4524, 4525

Narrated Ibn Abu Mulaika: Ibn Abbas recited: “(Respite will be granted) until when the Apostles gave up hope (of their people) and thought that they were denied (by their people). There came to them Our Help ….” (12:110) reading Kudhibu without doubling the sound ‘dh’, and that was what he understood of the Verse. Then he went on reciting: “..even the Apostle and those who believed along with him said: ‘When (will come) Allah’s Help?’ Yes, verily, Allah’s Help is near.” (2:214) Then I met Urwa bin Az-Zubair and I mentioned that to him. He said, “Aisha said, ‘Allah forbid! By Allah, Allah never promised His Apostle anything but he knew that it would certainly happen before he died. But trials were continuously presented before the Apostles till they were afraid that their followers would accuse them of telling lies. So I used to recite: Till they (come to) think that they were treated as liars,” reading Kudh-dhibu with double ‘dh.’

(39) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “Your wives are a tilth for you; so go to your tilth when or how you will…” (2:223)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4526, 4527, 4528

Narrated Nafi: Whenever Ibn Umar recited the Qur’an, he would not speak to anyone till he had finished his recitation. Once I held the Qur’an and he recited Surat-al-Baqara from his memory and then stopped at a certain Verse and said, “Do you know in what connection this Verse was revealed?” I replied, “No.” He said, “It was revealed in such-and-such connection.” Ibn Umar then resumed his recitation. Nafi added regarding the Verse: “So go to your tilth when or how you will.” Ibn Umar said, “It means one should approach his wife in …”

Narrated Jabir: Jews used to say: “If one has sexual intercourse with his wife from the back, then she will deliver a squint-eyed child.” So this Verse was revealed: “Your wives are a tilth unto you; so go to your tilth when or how you will.” (2:223)

(40) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And when you have divorced women and they have fulfilled the term of their prescribed period, do not prevent them from marrying their (former) husbands…” (2:232)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4529

Narrated Al-Hasan: The sister of Ma’qal bin Yasar was divorced by her husband who left her till she had fulfilled her term of ‘Idda, and then he wanted to remarry her but Maqal refused. So this Verse was revealed: “Do not prevent them from marrying their (former) husbands.” (2:232)

(41) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And those of you who die and leave wives behind them, they (the wives) shall wait (as regards their marriage) for four months and ten days…” (2:234)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4530, 4531, 4532

Narrated Ibn Az-Zubair: I said to Uthman bin Affan (while he was collecting the Qur’an) regarding the Verse: “Those of you who die and leave wives…” (2:240), “This Verse was abrogated by another Verse. So why should you write it or leave it in the Qur’an?” Uthman said, “O son of my brother! I will not shift anything of it from its place.”

Narrated Mujahid regarding the Verse (2:234): The widow, according to this Verse, was to spend this period of waiting with her husband’s family. Then Allah revealed (2:240): “Those of you who die and leave wives (i.e., widows) should bequeath for their wives a year’s maintenance and residence without turning them out, but if they leave (their residence), there is no blame on you for what they do with themselves provided it is honorable.” So Allah entitled the widow to be bequeathed extra maintenance for seven months and twenty nights, completing one year. If she wished, she could stay according to the will, and if she wished she could leave. Thus the ‘Idda of four months and ten days remained obligatory, but staying in the husband’s home was optional. Ibn Abbas said that this later ruling cancelled the obligation of staying in her husband’s house, and she could complete her ‘Idda wherever she liked. Later, the laws of inheritance abrogated the ruling of maintenance and residence.

Narrated Muhammad bin Seereen: I sat in a gathering in which the chiefs of the Ansar were present, and Abdur-Rahman bin Abu Laila was amongst them. I mentioned the narration of Abdullah bin Utba regarding the question of Subai’a bint Al-Harith. Abdur-Rahman said, “But Abdullah’s uncle used not to say so.” I said, “I am too brave if I tell a lie concerning a person who is now in Al-Kufa,” and I raised my voice. Then I went out and met Malik bin Amir or Malik bin Auf, and said, “What was the verdict of Ibn Masud about the pregnant widow whose husband had died?” He replied, “Ibn Masud said, ‘Why do you impose on her the hard order and don’t let her make use of the leave? The shorter Sura of women (i.e. Surat-at-Talaq) was revealed after the longer Sura (i.e. Surat-al-Baqara).’ (i.e., Her ‘Idda is until she delivers.)”

(42) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “Guard strictly the (five obligatory) prayers, especially the middle prayer (i.e., ‘Asr)…” (2:238)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4533

Narrated Ali: On the day of Al-Khandaq (the battle of the Trench), the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “They (i.e., the pagans) prevented us from offering the middle (the best) prayer until the sun had set. May Allah fill their graves, their houses (or their bodies) with fire.”

(43) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “…And stand before Allah with obedience [and do not speak to others during the Salat (prayers)]” (2:238)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4534

Narrated Zaid bin Arqam: We used to speak while in prayer. One of us would speak to his brother during prayer about his need, until the Verse was revealed: “Guard strictly the (five obligatory) prayers, especially the middle (the Best) (`Asr) Prayer and stand before Allah with obedience (and not to speak to others during the prayers).” Then we were ordered not to speak in the prayers.

(44) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “If you fear (an enemy), perform Salat (prayer) on foot or riding. And when you are in safety…” (2:239)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4535

Narrated Nafi: Whenever Abdullah bin Umar was asked about Salat-al-Khauf (prayer of fear), he said, "The Imam comes forward with a group of people and leads them in one raka while another group stays between the praying group and the enemy. When the first group finishes one raka, they retreat and take the positions of those who have not prayed but do not finish with Taslim. Then the group that has not prayed comes forward and offers a raka with the Imam. After the Imam has completed two rakat, each member of the two groups completes their second raka alone. Thus, each one of the two groups will have offered two rakat. If the fear is greater, they can pray standing on their feet or riding on their mounts, facing the Qibla or not." Nafi added that he did not see Abdullah bin Umar narrate this except from Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him).

(45) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And those of you who die and leave behind wives…” (2:240)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4536

Narrated Ibn Az-Zubair: I said to Uthman, "This Verse in Surat-al-Baqara, 'Those of you who die and leave widows behind...without turning them out,' has been abrogated by another Verse. Why then do you write it (in the Qur'an)?" Uthman said, “Leave it where it is, O son of my brother, for I will not shift anything of it from its original position.”

(46) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “And (remember) when Ibrãhim (Abraham) said: My Lord! Show me how You give life to the dead…” (2:260)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4537

Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said, “We have more right to be in doubt than Abraham when he said, ‘My Lord! Show me how You give life to the dead.’ He said, ‘Do you not believe?’ Abraham said, ‘Yes, I believe, but to strengthen my faith.'”

(47) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “Would any of you wish to have a garden with date palms and vines … that you may give thought.” (2:266)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4538

Narrated Ubaid bin Umair: Once Umar bin Al-Khattab said to the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him), "What do you think about this Verse: 'Does any of you wish that he should have a garden?'" They replied, "Allah knows best." Umar became angry and said, “Either say that you know or say that you do not know!” Then Ibn Abbas said, "O chief of the believers! I have something in my mind to say about it." Umar said, “O son of my brother! Say it, and do not underestimate yourself.” Ibn Abbas said, "This Verse has been set up as an example for deeds." Umar asked, “What kind of deeds?” Ibn Abbas replied, "For deeds." Umar said, “This is an example of a rich man who obeys Allah, but then Allah sends Satan who leads him into sins until all his good deeds are lost.”

(48) Chapter: The Statement of Allah: “…They do not beg of people at all…” (2:273)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4539

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The poor person is not the one for whom a date or two, or a morsel or two of food is sufficient. The poor person is he who does not beg or ask people for anything or show his poverty at all. Recite if you wish Allah’s Statement: ‘They do not beg of people at all.'”

(49) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “…Whereas Allah has permitted trading and forbidden Riba (usury)” (2:275)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4540

Narrated `Aisha: When the Verses of Surat-al-Baqara regarding usury (Riba) were revealed, Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) recited them before the people and then prohibited the trade of alcoholic liquors.

(50) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “Allah will destroy Riba (usury)” (2:276)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4541

Narrated `Aisha: When the last Verses of Surat-al-Baqara were revealed, Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) went out and recited them in the Mosque and prohibited the trade of alcoholic liquors.

(51) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “…Then take a notice of war from Allah and His Messenger…” (2:279)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4542

Narrated `Aisha: When the last Verses of Surat-al-Baqara were revealed, the Prophet (peace be upon him) read them in the Mosque and prohibited the trade of alcoholic liquors.

(52) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “And if the debtor is in a hard time (has no money), then grant him time till it is easy for him to repay…” (2:280)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4543

Narrated `Aisha: When the last Verses of Surat-al-Baqara were revealed, Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) stood up and recited them before us and then prohibited the trade of alcoholic liquors.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4544

(53) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “And be afraid of the Day when you shall be brought back to Allah…” (2:281)
Narrated Ibn `Abbas: The last Verse revealed to the Prophet (peace be upon him) was the Verse dealing with usury (Riba).

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4545

(54) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “And whether you disclose what is in your ownselves or conceal it…” (2:284)
Narrated Ibn `Umar: This Verse—”Whether you show what is in your minds or conceal it…”—was abrogated.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number

4546
(55) Chapter: Allah’s Statement: “The Messenger (Muhammad) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord…” (2:285)
Narrated Marwan Al-Asghar: A man among the companions of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him), who I think was Ibn `Umar, said, “The Verse: ‘Whether you show what is in your minds or conceal it…’ was abrogated by the Verse following it.”

1. In it are Verses that are entirely clear” (3:7)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4547

Narrated `Aisha: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) recited the Verse:

“It is He who has sent down to you the Book. In it are Verses that are entirely clear, they are the foundation of the Book, others not entirely clear. So as for those in whose hearts there is a deviation (from the Truth), follow thereof that is not entirely clear seeking affliction and searching for its hidden meanings; but no one knows its hidden meanings but Allah. And those who are firmly grounded in knowledge say: ‘We believe in it (i.e., in the Qur’an) the whole of it (i.e., its clear and unclear Verses) are from our Lord. And none receive admonition except men of understanding.’” (3:7)

Then Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “If you see those who follow that which is not entirely clear, then they are those whom Allah has named [as having deviation from the Truth]. So beware of them.”

2. “…And I seek refuge with You (Allah) for her and her offspring from Shaitan (Satan), the outcast” (3:36)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4548

Narrated Sa`id bin Al-Musaiyab:

Abu Huraira said, “The Prophet (ﷺ) said, ‘No child is born but that Satan touches it at birth, causing it to cry loudly, except Mary and her son.’ Abu Huraira then said, ‘Recite, if you wish: “And I seek refuge with You (Allah) for her and her offspring from Satan, the outcast.”‘ “

3. “Verily, those who purchase a small gain at the cost of Allah’s Covenant and their oaths, they shall have no portion in the Hereafter… and they shall have a painful torment” (3:77)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4549, 4550

Narrated Abu Wail:

`Abdullah bin Masud said, “Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, ‘Whoever takes an oath to unlawfully deprive a Muslim of his property will meet Allah Who will be angry with him.’ So Allah revealed in confirmation of this statement: ‘Verily! Those who purchase a small gain at the cost of Allah’s Covenant and oaths, they shall have no portion in the Hereafter…’“

Then Al-Ash’ath bin Qais asked about the narration. He related that the Verse was revealed regarding his case: he had a well on his cousin’s land, and the Prophet (ﷺ) told him, “Either you bring proof or he takes an oath.” Al-Ash’ath said, “He would lie,” and the Prophet (ﷺ) explained that whoever swears falsely to unlawfully seize another Muslim’s property will meet Allah’s wrath.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4551

Narrated Abdullah bin Abu Aufa:

A man displayed merchandise in the market and falsely claimed he had been offered a certain price to cheat another Muslim. Then the Verse was revealed: “Verily! Those who purchase a small gain at the cost of Allah’s Covenant and their oaths…” (3:77)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4552

Narrated Ibn Abu Mulaika:

Two women were stitching shoes. One injured herself with an awl and accused the other. The case was brought before Ibn Abbas, who said, "If people were given what they claim without proof, life and property would be lost. Remind her of Allah and recite: *'Verily! Those who purchase a small gain at the cost of Allah's Covenant and their oaths...'*" She confessed, and Ibn Abbas said, “The oath is to be taken by the defendant in the absence of proof.”

4. “Say (O Muḥammad pbuh), ‘O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allah…” (V.3:64)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4553

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

Abu Sufyan narrated to me personally, saying, “I set out during the Truce that had been concluded between me and Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him). While I was in Sham, a letter sent by the Prophet (peace be upon him) was brought to Heraclius. Dihya Al-Kalbi had brought and given it to the governor of Busra, and the latter forwarded it to Heraclius. Heraclius said, ‘Is there anyone from the people of this man who claims to be a prophet?’ The people replied, ‘Yes.’ So I along with some of Quraishi men were called and we entered upon Heraclius, and we were seated in front of him. Then he said, ‘Who amongst you is the nearest relative to the man who claims to be a prophet?’ So they made me sit in front of him and made my companions sit behind me. Then he called upon his translator and said to him, ‘Tell them (i.e., Abu Sufyan’s companions) that I am going to ask him (i.e., Abu Sufyan) regarding that man who claims to be a prophet. So, if he tells me a lie, they should contradict him instantly.’ By Allah, had I not been afraid that my companions would consider me a liar, I would have told lies.

Heraclius then said to his translator, ‘Ask him: What is his (i.e., the Prophet’s) family status amongst you?’ I said, ‘He belongs to a noble family amongst us.’ Heraclius said, ‘Was any of his ancestors a king?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Did you ever accuse him of telling lies before his saying what he has said?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Do the nobles follow him or the poor people?’ I said, ‘It is the poor who followed him.’ He said, ‘Is the number of his followers increasing or decreasing?’ I said, ‘They are increasing.’ He said, ‘Does anyone renounce his religion after embracing it, being displeased with it?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Did you fight with him?’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘How was your fighting with him?’ I said, ‘The fighting between us was undecided, and victory was shared by him and us by turns. He inflicts casualties upon us and we inflict casualties upon him.’ He said, ‘Did he ever betray?’ I said, ‘No, but now we are away from him in this truce and we do not know what he will do in it.’ Abu Sufyan added, “By Allah, I was not able to insert in my speech a word against him except that.”

Heraclius said, ‘Did anybody else amongst you ever claim the same before him?’ I said, ‘No.’ Then Heraclius told his translator to tell me, ‘I asked you about his family status amongst you, and you told me that he comes from a noble family amongst you. Verily, all Apostles come from the noblest family among their people. Then I asked you whether any of his ancestors was a king, and you denied that. Thereupon I thought that had one of his forefathers been a king, I would have said that he (i.e., Muhammad) was seeking to rule the kingdom of his forefathers. Then I asked you regarding his followers, whether they were the noble or the poor among the people, and you said that they were only the poor who follow him. In fact, such are the followers of the Apostles. Then I asked you whether you have ever accused him of telling lies before saying what he said, and your reply was negative. Therefore, I took for granted that a man who did not tell a lie about others could ever tell a lie about Allah. Then I asked you whether anyone of his followers had renounced his religion after embracing it, being displeased with it, and you denied that. And such is Faith when it mixes with the cheerfulness of the hearts. Then I asked you whether his followers were increasing or decreasing. You claimed that they were increasing. That is the way of true faith till it is complete. Then I asked you whether you had ever fought with him, and you claimed that you had fought with him and the battle between you and him was undecided and the victory was shared by you and him in turns; he inflicted casualties upon you and you inflicted casualties upon them. Such is the case with the Apostles; they are out to test, and the final victory is for them. Then I asked you whether he had ever betrayed; you claimed that he had never betrayed. Apostles never betray. Then I asked you whether anyone had said this statement before him; and you denied that. Thereupon I thought if somebody had said that statement before him, then I would have said that he was but a man copying some sayings said before him.”

Abu Safyan said, “Heraclius then asked me, ‘What does he order you to do?’ I said, ‘He orders us to offer prayers, pay Zakat, keep good relationship with the kith and kin, and to be chaste.’ Then Heraclius said, ‘If whatever you have said is true, he is really a prophet. I knew that he was going to appear, but I never thought that he would be from amongst you. If I were certain that I could reach him, I would like to meet him, and if I were with him, I would wash his feet; and his kingdom will expand to what is under my feet.’

Then Heraclius asked for the letter of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) and read it wherein was written: “In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. This letter is from Muhammad, Apostle of Allah, to Heraclius, the sovereign of Byzantine… Peace be upon him who follows the Right Path. Now then, I call you to embrace Islam. Embrace Islam and you will be saved from Allah’s Punishment; embrace Islam, and Allah will give you a double reward, but if you reject this, you will be responsible for the sins of the tillers. O people of the Scripture, come to a word common to you and us that we worship none but Allah… bear witness that we are Muslims.”

When he finished reading the letter, voices grew louder near him and there was a great hue and cry, and we were ordered to go out. Abu Sufyan added, “While coming out, I said to my companions, ‘The situation of Ibn Abu Kabsha (i.e., Muhammad) has become strong; even the king of Banu Al-Asfar is afraid of him.’ So I continued to believe that Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) would be victorious until Allah made me embrace Islam.” Az-Zuhri said, “Heraclius then invited all the chiefs of the Byzantines and had them assembled in his house and said, ‘O group of Byzantines! Do you wish to have permanent success and guidance and that your kingdom should remain with you?’ They rushed towards the gate like onagers, but they found it closed. Heraclius then said, ‘Bring them back to me.’ So he called them and said, ‘I just wanted to test the strength of your adherence to your religion. Now I have observed from you that which I like.’ Then the people fell in prostration before him and became pleased with him.”

5. “By no means shall you attain Al-Birr (piety, righteousness; it means here Allah’s Reward, i.e., Paradise) unless you spend (in Allah’s Cause) of that which you love…” (V.3:92)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4554

Narrated Anas bin Malik:

Out of all the Ansar, living in Medina, Abu Talha had the largest number of (date palm trees) gardens, and the most beloved of his property to him was Bairuha garden which was standing opposite the Mosque (of the Prophet). Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) used to enter it and drink of its good water. When the Verse:–“By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you spend (in charity) of that which you love.” (3.92) Abu Talha got up and said, “O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ), Allah says:–“By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you spend (in charity) of that which you love.” (3.92) and the most beloved of my property to me is the Bairuha garden, so I give it (as a charitable gift) in Allah’s Cause and hope to receive good out of it, and to have it stored for me with Allah. So, O Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ)! Dispose it of (i.e. utilize it) in the way Allah orders you (to dispose it of).” Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said, “Bravo! That is a fruitful property! That is a fruitful property! I have heard what you have said and I think that you should distribute that (garden) amongst your relatives.” The Abu Talha distributed that garden amongst his relatives and his cousins.

Narrated Yahya bin Yahya:

I learnt from Malik, “..a fruitful property.”

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4555

Narrated Anas:

Abu Talha distributed the garden between Hassan and Ubai, but he did not give me anything thereof although I was a nearer relative to him.

6. “Say (O Muḥammad pbuh): Bring here the Taurāt (Torah) and recite it, if you are truthful.” (V.3:93)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4556

Narrated Abdullah bin Umar:

The Jews brought to the Prophet (peace be upon him) a man and a woman from among them who had committed illegal sexual intercourse. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said to them, “How do you usually punish the one amongst you who has committed illegal sexual intercourse?” They replied, “We blacken their faces with coal and beat them.” He said, “Don’t you find the order of Ar-Rajm (i.e., stoning to death) in the Torah?” They replied, “We do not find anything in it.” Abdullah bin Salam, after hearing this conversation, said to them, "You have told a lie! Bring here the Torah and recite it if you are truthful." So the Jews brought the Torah, and the religious teacher who was teaching it to them put his hand over the Verse of Ar-Rajm and started reading what was written above and below the place hidden with his hand, but he did not read the Verse of Ar-Rajm. Abdullah bin Salam removed his hand from the Verse and said, “What is this?” When the Jews saw that Verse, they said, “This is the Verse of Ar-Rajm.” So the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered the two adulterers to be stoned to death, and they were stoned near the place where biers used to be placed near the Mosque. I saw her companion bowing over her so as to protect her from the stones.

7. “You (true believers in Islamic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muḥammad pbuh and his Sunna) are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind…” (V.3:110)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4557

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Verse, “You (true believers in Islamic Monotheism, and real followers of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his Sunna) are the best of peoples ever raised up for mankind” (3.110), means the best of peoples for the people. As an example, you bring them with chains on their necks until they embrace Islam.

8. When two parties from among you were about to lose heart…” (V.3:122)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4558

Narrated Jabir bin `Abdullah:

The Verse, “When two parties from among you were about to lose heart, but Allah was their Protector” (3.122), was revealed concerning us. We were the two parties, i.e., Banu Haritha and Banu Salama, and we do not wish—or I would not have been pleased—if it had not been revealed, for Allah says, “…Allah was their Protector.”

9. “Not for you (O Muḥammad pbuh, but for Allah) is the decision..” (V.3:128)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4559

Narrated Salim’s father:

I heard Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) on raising his head from the bowing in the last rak`a of Fajr prayer, saying, “O Allah, curse such-and-such person and such-and-such person, and such-and-such person,” after saying, “Allah hears him who sends his praises to Him, O our Lord, all praise is for You.” So Allah revealed, “Not for you (O Muhammad), but for Allah is the decision; verily they are indeed wrongdoers” (3.128).

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4560

Narrated Abu Huraira:

Whenever Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) intended to invoke evil upon somebody or invoke good upon somebody, he used to invoke Allah after bowing in the prayer. Sometimes after saying, “Allah hears him who sends his praises to Him, all praise is for You, O our Lord,” he would say, “O Allah, save Al-Walid bin Al-Walid and Salama bin Hisham, and Aiyash bin Abu Rabia. O Allah! Inflict Your severe torture on Mudar (tribe) and strike them with famine years like the years of Joseph.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) would say this in a loud voice and also in some of his Fajr prayers, naming some of the Arab tribes, until Allah revealed, “Not for you (O Muhammad), but for Allah is the decision” (3.128).

10. The Statement of Allah the Most High: “…And the Messenger (Muḥammad pbuh) was in your rear calling you back…” (V3:153)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4561

Narrated Al-Bara bin Azib:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) appointed `Abdullah bin Jubair as the commander of the infantry during the battle of Uhud. They returned defeated, and that is what is meant by: “And the Messenger was calling them back in the rear.” None remained with the Prophet (peace be upon him) then but twelve men.

11. Allah’s Statement: “…He sent down security for you. Slumber…” (V.3:154)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4562

Narrated Abu Talha:

Slumber overtook us during the battle of Uhud while we were in the front lines. My sword would fall from my hand and I would pick it up, and again it would fall and I would pick it up again. This is referred to in the Qur’an: “…He sent down security for you. Slumber…”

12. The Statement of Allah the Exalted: “Those who answered (the Call of) Allah and the Messenger (Muḥammad pbuh) after being wounded; for those of them who did good deeds and feared Allah, there is a great reward.” (V.3:172)

13. His Statement: “Those (i.e., believers) unto whom the people (hypocrites) said, ‘Verily the people (Mushrikūn) have gathered against you (a great army), therefore, fear them…”‘ (V .3:173)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4563

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

The Verse, “Those who answered (the Call of) Allah and the Messenger after being wounded; for those of them who did good deeds and feared Allah, there is a great reward” (3.172), refers to the companions who, despite being injured, responded faithfully and were promised a great reward from Allah.

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4564

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

When the hypocrites said, “A great army is gathering against you, therefore, fear them,” the Prophet (peace be upon him) and the believers replied: “Allah is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs.” This statement of trust and reliance is similar to what Abraham said when he was thrown into the fire. It strengthened their faith and resolve.

14. “And let not those who covetously withhold of that which Allah has bestowed on them of His Bounty .. .” (V.3:180)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4565

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Anyone whom Allah has given wealth but does not pay its Zakat, then on the Day of Resurrection, his wealth will appear to him as a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two poisonous glands in its mouth. It will encircle his neck, bite him over the cheeks, and say, ‘I am your wealth; I am your treasure.'” He then recited the verse: “And let not those who covetously withhold of that which Allah has bestowed upon them of His Bounty” (3.180).

15. ..And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you (Jews and Christians) and from those who ascribe partners to Allāh.. .” (V.3:186)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4566

Narrated Usama bin Zaid:

Before the battle of Badr, the Prophet (peace be upon him) rode a donkey with a thick cloth-covering and was accompanied by Usama bin Zaid. They went to visit Sad bin Ubada in Banu Al-Harith bin Al-Khazraj. On the way, they passed a gathering including Abdullah bin Ubai bin Salul and Abdullah bin Rawaha, among Muslims, pagans, and Jews. A cloud of dust from the donkey disturbed the gathering, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) greeted them, dismounted, and invited them to Allah and recited the Qur’an. Abdullah bin Ubai initially resisted but was excused by the Prophet (peace be upon him), who, along with his companions, practiced patience and forgiveness toward the people of Scripture and the pagans, as Allah had ordered. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) later fought in Badr and Allah defeated the nobles of Quraysh, Ibn Ubai and his followers accepted Islam and pledged allegiance to the Prophet (peace be upon him). This reflects the verse: “And you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you and from those who ascribe partners to Allah” (3.186).

16. “Think not that those who rejoice in what they have done (or brought about)…” (V.3:188)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4567

Narrated Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri:

During the lifetime of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him), some men among the hypocrites used to remain behind him (i.e., did not accompany him) when he went out for a Ghazwa, and they would be pleased to stay at home. When Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) returned from the battle, they would put forward false excuses and take oaths, wishing to be praised for what they had not done. So Allah revealed: “Think not that those who rejoice in what they have done, and love to be praised for what they have not done..” (3.188)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4568

Narrated Alqama bin Waqqas:

Marwan said to his gatekeeper, “Go to Ibn Abbas, O Rafi, and say, ‘If everybody who rejoices in what he has done, and likes to be praised for what he has not done, will be punished, then all of us will be punished.'” Ibn Abbas replied, "What connection have you with this case? It was only that the Prophet (peace be upon him) called the Jews and asked them about something, and they hid the truth and told him something else, showing that they deserved praise for giving a false answer, and they became happy with what they had concealed." Then Ibn Abbas recited: “(And remember) when Allah took a Covenant from those who were given the Scripture… and those who rejoice in what they have done and love to be praised for what they have not done.” (3.187–188)

Humaid bin Abdur-Rahman bin Auf narrated that Marwan had told him the above.

17. Allah’s Statement: “Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding.” (V.3:190)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4569

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

I stayed overnight in the house of my aunt Maimuna. Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) talked with his wife for a while and then went to bed. When it was the last third of the night, he got up and looked towards the sky and said, “Verily! In the creation of the Heavens and the Earth and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding.” Then he stood up, performed ablution, brushed his teeth with a Siwak, and prayed eleven rakat. Then Bilal pronounced the Adhan (call for Fajr prayer). The Prophet (peace be upon him) then offered two rakat (Sunna) prayer and went out to the Mosque and offered the compulsory congregational Fajr prayer.

18. “Those who remember Allāh (always and in prayers), standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides; and think deeply about the creation of the heavens and the earth…” (V.3:191)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4570

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

One night I stayed overnight in the house of my aunt Maimuna and decided to watch the prayer of Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him). My aunt placed a cushion for him, and he slept on it lengthwise, woke up, rubbed sleep from his face, and recited the last ten Verses of Surat Al-Imran. Then he went to a hanging water skin, performed ablution, and stood to pray. I did the same and stood beside him. He put his hand on my head and twisted my ear. He then offered two rakat, then two rakat, repeated this six times, and finally offered the witr (one raka) prayer.

19. “Our Lord! Verily, whom You admit to the Fire, indeed, You have disgraced him and never will the Ẓalimūn (polytheists and wrong-doers) find any helpers.” (V.3:192)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4571

Narrated Abdullah bin Abbas:

I once stayed overnight in the house of my aunt Maimuna, the wife of the Prophet. I lay on the cushion transversely, while Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) lay along with his wife lengthwise. He slept until around midnight, then woke up, rubbed his face, recited the last ten Verses of Surat Al-Imran, went to a hanging water skin, performed perfect ablution, and stood to pray. I did the same and stood beside him. He put his right hand on my head, held and twisted my right ear, then offered two rakat, repeated six times, and finally one raka witr. He lay down until the Muadhdhin came, then offered a light two-rakat prayer, and went to the Mosque for the compulsory congregational Fajr prayer.

20. “Our Lord! Verily, we have heard the call of one (i.e., Muḥammad peace be upon him) calling to Faith…” (V.3:193)

Sahih al-Bukhari Hadith Number 4572

Narrated Ibn `Abbas:

I stayed overnight in the house of my aunt, the wife of the Prophet. I lay on the cushion transversely while Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) lay along with his wife lengthwise. He slept until around midnight, then woke up, rubbed his face, recited the last ten Verses of Surat Al-Imran, went to a hanging water skin, performed ablution perfectly, and stood to pray. I did the same and stood beside him. He placed his right hand on my head, twisted my right ear, and offered two rakat, repeated six times, and finally one raka witr. He lay down until the Muadhdhin came, then offered a light two-rakat prayer and went to the Mosque to perform the compulsory Fajr prayer.