Asma' bint Al Bakr said, "I came to `Aisha the wife of the Prophet (p.b.u.h) during the solar eclipse. The people were standing and offering the prayer and she was also praying too. I asked her, 'What has happened to the people?' She pointed out with her hand towards the sky and said, 'Subhan-Allah'. I said, 'Is there a sign?' She pointed out in the affirmative." Asma' further said, "I too then stood up for the prayer till I fainted and then poured water on my head. When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) had finished his prayer, he thanked and praised Allah and said, 'I have seen at this place of mine what I have never seen even Paradise and Hell. No doubt, it has been inspired to me that you will be put to trial in the graves like or nearly like the trial of (Masih) Ad-Dajjal. (I do not know which one of the two Asma' said.) (The angels) will come to everyone of you and will ask what do you know about this man (i.e. Muhammad). The believer or a firm believer (I do not know which word Asma' said) will reply, 'He is Muhammad, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) (p.b.u.h) who came to us with clear evidences and guidance, so we accepted his teachings, believed and followed him.' The angels will then say to him, 'Sleep peacefully as we knew surely that you were a firm believer.' The hypocrite or doubtful person (I do not know which word Asma' said) will say, 'I do not know. I heard the people saying something so I said it (the same).' "
Eclipses
Author: Sahih al-Bukhari | Hadith Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 1053
Contextual Analysis
This narration from Asma' bint Abi Bakr describes the solar eclipse prayer during the Prophet's time. Eclipses in Islamic tradition are not mere astronomical phenomena but divine signs inspiring reflection and prayer. The immediate response of the Muslim community was to turn to prayer, demonstrating that natural phenomena should direct believers toward their Creator.
Theological Significance of Eclipses
The Prophet's instruction to pray during eclipses establishes that these events are reminders of Allah's power and sovereignty. Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that eclipses serve as warnings against heedlessness and opportunities for increased devotion. The communal prayer emphasizes collective spiritual response to divine signs.
Revelation Concerning the Grave Trial
The core teaching here concerns the questioning in the grave. Scholars such as Imam an-Nawawi clarify that this narration establishes the reality of the grave trial as fundamental creed. The believer's firm knowledge of the Prophet's message becomes their salvation, while the hypocrite's uncertainty leads to punishment. This distinguishes true faith from mere imitation.
Comparative Eschatology
The Prophet's comparison between the eclipse vision and the Dajjal's trial indicates the gravity of the grave test. Classical commentators note that just as the Dajjal's fitna tests living believers, the grave examination tests the deceased. The firm believer maintains clarity of faith even in isolation, reflecting the Quranic principle that true faith remains steadfast in all circumstances.
Practical Implications
This hadith establishes the sunnah of eclipse prayer, the importance of theological knowledge, and the necessity of developing personal conviction rather than inherited belief. Scholars derive that Muslims should learn the fundamentals of faith thoroughly to successfully answer in the grave. The narration also teaches proper conduct during celestial phenomena - turning to prayer rather than superstitious interpretations.