We were sitting with Ibn Masud when Khabbab came and said, "O Abu `Abdur-Rahman! Can these
young fellows recite Qur'an as you do?" Ibn Mas`ud said, "If you wish I can order one of them to
recite (Qur'an) for you ." Khabbab replied, "Yes. "Ibn Mas`ud said, "Recite, O 'Alqama!" On that,
Zaid bin Hudair, the brother of Ziyad bin Hudair said, (to Ibn Mas`ud), "Why have you ordered
'Alqama to recite though he does not recite better than we?" Ibn Mas`ud said, "If you like, I would tell
you what the Prophet (ﷺ) said about your nation and his (i.e. 'Alqama's) nation." So I recited fifty Verses
from Sura-Maryam. `Abdullah (bin Mas`ud) said to Khabbab, "What do you think (about 'Alqama's
recitation)?" Khabbab said, "He has recited well." `Abdullah said, "Whatever I recite, 'Alqama
recites." Then `Abdullah turned towards Khabbab and saw that he was wearing a gold ring,
whereupon he said, "Hasn't the time for its throwing away come yet?" Khabbab said, "You will not
see me wearing it after today," and he throw it away.
Narrated by Narrated Alqama:
Context
In this hadith, Ibn Mas'ud interacts with Khabbab and demonstrates the importance of teaching and reciting the Qur'an. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasizes the significance of sincerity in one's actions, particularly regarding outward displays of faith.
Modern Application
This principle encourages individuals today to focus on the sincerity of their actions and to engage in meaningful communication with others, fostering a culture of respect and understanding.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Prophetic Conduct and Respectful Communication because it highlights the importance of sincerity and respectful dialogue in religious matters.
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]."
So he came out before his people in his adornment. Those who desired the worldly life said, "Oh, would that we had like what was given to Qarun. Indeed, he is one of great fortune."
And when Our verses are recited to them as clear evidences, those who do not expect the meeting with Us say, "Bring us a Qur'an other than this or change it." Say, [O Muhammad], "It is not for me to change it on my own accord. I only follow what is revealed to me. Indeed I fear, if I should disobey my Lord, the punishment of a tremendous Day."
And when Our verses are recited to them as clear evidences, you recognize in the faces of those who disbelieve disapproval. They are almost on the verge of assaulting those who recite to them Our verses. Say, "Then shall I inform you of [what is] worse than that? [It is] the Fire which Allah has promised those who disbelieve, and wretched is the destination."
And when our verses are recited to him, he turns away arrogantly as if he had not heard them, as if there was in his ears deafness. So give him tidings of a painful punishment.
This hadith is #4198 from Sahih al-Bukhari, in the Book of Military Expeditions led by the Prophet (pbuh) (Al-Maghaazi). It is graded Sahih and narrated by Narrated Alqama:.