I said: "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! Who will be the luckiest person, who will gain your intercession on the Day of Resurrection?" Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: O Abu Huraira! "I have thought that none will ask me about it before you as I know your longing for the (learning of) Hadiths. The luckiest person who will have my intercession on the Day of Resurrection will be the one who said sincerely from the bottom of his heart "None has the right to be worshipped but Allah."
The Excellence of Sincere Declaration of Faith
This blessed narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (Hadith 99) reveals the profound connection between sincere monotheistic belief and the Prophet's intercession on the Day of Judgment. The question posed by Abu Huraira, a renowned companion known for his devotion to preserving Prophetic traditions, demonstrates the companions' keen interest in understanding the means to divine mercy and salvation.
Scholarly Commentary on the Hadith
The phrase "sincerely from the bottom of his heart" (mukhlisan min qalbihi) indicates that mere verbal utterance is insufficient. True faith requires internal conviction, external affirmation, and righteous action in accordance with Islamic teachings.
The Prophet's recognition of Abu Huraira's dedication to learning Hadith highlights the virtue of seeking religious knowledge and the special status of those who preserve and transmit divine guidance.
The intercession (shafa'ah) mentioned refers to the Prophet's privileged role as an intercessor before Allah on behalf of his ummah, particularly for those who maintained pure tawhid (monotheism) throughout their lives.
Practical Implications for Believers
This hadith emphasizes that salvation ultimately depends on sincere belief in Allah's oneness, coupled with the Prophet's intercession. It reminds Muslims to constantly renew and purify their faith, ensuring their declaration of La ilaha illallah remains alive in their hearts and reflected in their actions.
The narration also encourages the pursuit of Islamic knowledge, as demonstrated by Abu Huraira's thoughtful questioning and the Prophet's appreciation of his scholarly inclination.