reported the Prophet (ﷺ) as saying: There are people from the servants of Allah who are neither prophets nor martyrs; the prophets and martyrs will envy them on the Day of Resurrection for their rank from Allah, the Most High.
They (the people) asked: Tell us, Messenger of Allah, who are they? He replied: They are people who love one another for the spirit of Allah (i.e. the Qur'an), without having any mutual kinship and giving property to one. I swear by Allah, their faces will glow and they will be (sitting) in (pulpits of) light. They will have no fear (on the Day) when the people will have fear, and they will not grieve when the people will grieve.
He then recited the following Qur'anic verse: "Behold! Verily for the friends of Allah there is no fear, nor shall they grieve."
Hadith Commentary: The Special Status of Allah's Devoted Servants
This profound hadith from Sunan Abi Dawud 3527 in the Book of Wages (Kitab Al-Ijarah) reveals the exalted status of certain believers who attain a rank envied even by prophets and martyrs. The classical scholars explain that this envy is not of discontent but of admiration for their special proximity to Allah.
The Nature of Their Love
Imam Al-Munawi clarifies that "loving one another for the spirit of Allah" means loving purely for Allah's sake, through the Quran's guidance. This bond transcends worldly relations and material interests.
Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali emphasizes that such love is founded on shared faith and obedience to Allah, creating spiritual brotherhood stronger than blood ties.
Their Distinguished Rewards
The "glowing faces" signify the radiance of their faith and the light of obedience that illuminates their countenances on Judgment Day.
The "pulpits of light" represent their elevated stations in Paradise, reflecting their high spiritual rank and honor before Allah.
Connection to Quranic Promise
The Prophet's recitation of Surah Yunus (10:62) confirms these individuals are among Allah's "awliya" (close friends). Al-Qurtubi explains that true friendship with Allah is achieved through constant obedience, remembrance, and love for His sake.
Their immunity from fear and grief stems from their absolute trust in Allah's promise and their certainty in the Hereafter's realities.
Practical Implications
This hadith teaches that spiritual excellence is accessible to all believers through sincere love for Allah's sake, regular worship, and maintaining pure intentions in relationships.
It encourages Muslims to cultivate bonds based on faith rather than worldly benefits, assuring them of magnificent rewards in the Hereafter.