I said to the Prophet (ﷺ) while I was in the Cave. "If any of them should look under his feet, he would see us." He said, "O Abu Bakr! What do you think of two (persons) the third of whom is Allah?"
Tafsir of Hadith from Companions of the Prophet
Sahih al-Bukhari 3653 - Commentary by Classical Scholars
Contextual Background
This narration recounts the critical moment during the Hijrah (migration) when Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and Abu Bakr (RA) sought refuge in the Cave of Thawr from the Quraysh pursuers.
Abu Bakr's concern reflects the natural human apprehension when their hiding place was vulnerable to discovery by mere downward glance.
Divine Reassurance
The Prophet's response "What do you think of two (persons) the third of whom is Allah?" demonstrates the ultimate reliance upon Divine protection.
Scholars explain this signifies that when Allah becomes the third in any company, His protection is guaranteed, making two with Allah stronger than any multitude without Him.
Spiritual Lessons
This hadith teaches the importance of tawakkul (trust in Allah) while taking appropriate worldly measures.
It illustrates that true security comes from Allah's protection, not merely physical concealment.
The incident serves as eternal proof of Abu Bakr's companionship and the special status of those who remain steadfast with the Prophet in times of trial.
Scholarly Observations
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani notes this hadith contains one of the greatest demonstrations of Allah's direct protection of His Messenger.
Al-Qurtubi emphasizes that the "third" here does not imply numerical partnership but rather indicates Allah's special attention and guardianship.