Abu Musa asked `Umar to admit him but he was not admitted as `Umar was busy, so Abu Musa went
back. When `Umar finished his job he said, "Didn't I hear the voice of `Abdullah bin Qais? Let him
come in." `Umar was told that he had left. So, he sent for him and on his arrival, he (Abu Musa) said,
"We were ordered to do so (i.e. to leave if not admitted after asking permission thrice). `Umar told
him, "Bring witness in proof of your statement." Abu Musa went to the Ansar's meeting places and
asked them. They said, "None amongst us will give this witness except the youngest of us, Abu Sa`id
Al-Khudri. Abu Musa then took Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (to `Umar) and `Umar said, surprisingly, "Has
this order of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) been hidden from me?" (Then he added), "I used to be busy trading in
markets."
Narrated by Narrated 'Ubaid bin `Umair:
Context
In this hadith, Abu Musa al-Ash'ari sought permission to enter the presence of Umar ibn al-Khattab, who was busy and did not grant him entry. After finishing his task, Umar realized Abu Musa had left and asked for him to return. Abu Musa explained that they were instructed to leave after three requests if not admitted. Umar, surprised, requested proof of this teaching, highlighting the importance of respectful communication and seeking permission in social interactions.
Modern Application
In today's workplace, respecting boundaries and seeking permission is crucial for maintaining a positive environment. When approaching managers or colleagues, understanding when to step back after multiple attempts can foster respect and professionalism. This principle encourages clear communication and mutual respect among team members.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Respectful Communication and Seeking Permission because it emphasizes the importance of asking for permission and the appropriate response when not granted entry.
May Allah pardon you, [O Muhammad]; why did you give them permission [to remain behind]? [You should not have] until it was evident to you who were truthful and you knew [who were] the liars.
And when a surah was revealed [enjoining them] to believe in Allah and to fight with His Messenger, those of wealth among them asked your permission [to stay back] and said, "Leave us to be with them who sit [at home]."
And he became inside the city fearful and anticipating [exposure], when suddenly the one who sought his help the previous day cried out to him [once again]. Moses said to him, "Indeed, you are an evident, [persistent] deviator."
The believers are only those who believe in Allah and His Messenger and, when they are [meeting] with him for a matter of common interest, do not depart until they have asked his permission. Indeed, those who ask your permission, [O Muhammad] - those are the ones who believe in Allah and His Messenger. So when they ask your permission for something of their affairs, then give permission to whom you will among them and ask forgiveness for them of Allah. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.
