When the time of the death of the Prophet (ﷺ) approached while there were some men in the house, and among them was `Umar bin Al-Khatttab, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Come near let me write for you a writing after which you will never go astray." `Umar said, "The Prophet (ﷺ) is seriously ill, and you have the Qur'an, so Allah's Book is sufficient for us." The people in the house differed and disputed. Some of them said, "Come near so that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) may write for you a writing after which you will not go astray," while some of them said what `Umar said. When they made much noise and differed greatly before the Prophet, he said to them, "Go away and leave me." Ibn `Abbas used to say, "It was a great disaster that their difference and noise prevented Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) from writing that writing for them.
Holding Fast to the Qur'an and Sunnah
Sahih al-Bukhari 7366
Contextual Analysis
This incident occurred during the final illness of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) when he sensed his approaching departure from this world. The gathering included prominent companions, with Umar ibn al-Khattab being notably present. The Prophet's intention to provide written guidance demonstrates his profound concern for his ummah's future guidance.
Scholarly Commentary
Umar's response stemmed from his deep reverence for the Prophet's condition and his conviction that the Qur'an provides complete guidance. Scholars note this reflects Umar's characteristic zeal to protect the Prophet from any additional burden during his illness.
The disagreement among the companions illustrates their human concern for both the Prophet's wellbeing and their desire for additional guidance. Their elevated voices in the Prophet's presence, though unintended, prevented the fulfillment of his intended instruction.
Ibn Abbas's Perspective
Ibn Abbas's characterization of this event as a "great disaster" (ar-rajīyah al-ʿaẓīmah) indicates the magnitude of what was lost. Classical commentators suggest the unwritten document would have provided clarity on leadership succession and prevented future divisions.
Divine Wisdom
Scholars conclude that Allah's wisdom allowed this occurrence, ensuring the community would develop through consultation (shura) and independent reasoning (ijtihad), thereby strengthening their reliance on the Qur'an and established Sunnah as primary sources of guidance.