Allah's Messenger, are you leaving me behind amongst women and children? Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: Aren't you satisfied with being unto me what Aaron was unto Moses but with this exception that there would be no prophet after me?
Narrated by Sa'd b. Abi Waqqas reported that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) left 'Ali b. Abi Talib behind him (as he proceeded) to the expedition of Tabuk, whereupon he ('Ali) said:
Context
This hadith recounts a moment during the expedition of Tabuk when the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) left Ali ibn Abi Talib behind. Ali expressed concern about being left with women and children, to which the Prophet (ﷺ) reassured him by comparing his position to that of Aaron to Moses, emphasizing the importance of Ali's role despite not being a prophet himself. This illustrates the trust and responsibility placed on Ali by the Prophet (ﷺ).
Modern Application
In contemporary life, this hadith highlights the importance of leadership roles and responsibilities within communities. It reminds us that every individual has a significant role to play, even if it may not be immediately recognized or appreciated by others.
Topics
This hadith is tagged with Prophetic Authority and Prophetic Conduct because it illustrates the trust the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) placed in Ali and the manner in which he guided and reassured him.
Is not Allah sufficient for His Servant [Prophet Muhammad]? And [yet], they threaten you with those [they worship] other than Him. And whoever Allah leaves astray - for him there is no guide.
Do you think that you will be left [as you are] while Allah has not yet made evident those among you who strive [for His cause] and do not take other than Allah, His Messenger and the believers as intimates? And Allah is Acquainted with what you do.
[Allah] said, "O Moses, I have chosen you over the people with My messages and My words [to you]. So take what I have given you and be among the grateful."
This hadith is #6060 from Sahih Muslim, in the Book of The Book of the Merits of the Companions. It is graded Sahih and narrated by Sa'd b. Abi Waqqas reported that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) left 'Ali b. Abi Talib behind him (as he proceeded) to the expedition of Tabuk, whereupon he ('Ali) said:.