Some of the wives of the Prophet (ﷺ) asked him, "Who amongst us will be the first to follow you (i.e. die after you)?" He said, "Whoever has the longest hand." So they started measuring their hands with a stick and Sauda's hand turned out to be the longest. (When Zainab bint Jahsh died first of all in the caliphate of `Umar), we came to know that the long hand was a symbol of practicing charity, so she was the first to follow the Prophet (ﷺ) and she used to love to practice charity. (Sauda died later in the caliphate of Muawiya).
Obligatory Charity Tax (Zakat)
Sahih al-Bukhari 1420
Hadith Commentary
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari contains profound wisdom regarding spiritual merit and divine knowledge. The Prophet's response, "Whoever has the longest hand," was initially misunderstood by his wives as referring to physical measurement, when in reality it indicated spiritual stature through charitable deeds.
The term "long hand" (ṭūl al-yad) in classical Arabic denotes generosity and abundant giving, as a person with a long hand can reach further to give to others. This metaphorical expression demonstrates how the Prophet often spoke in subtle, wisdom-filled language that required deeper contemplation.
The subsequent events revealed the true meaning when Zainab bint Jahsh - known for her exceptional charity - passed away first after the Prophet. This confirmed that spiritual preparedness for meeting Allah comes through righteous actions, particularly charity, which extends one's spiritual "hand" toward divine pleasure.
The misunderstanding among the wives highlights how divine truths are sometimes veiled in metaphorical language, requiring both revelation and practical manifestation for full comprehension. The eventual understanding that Sauda actually had the longest hand in charity shows that spiritual realities may differ from initial appearances.
Scholarly Insights
Classical scholars note that charity (sadaqah) holds immense status in Islam, as it purifies wealth, demonstrates gratitude to Allah, and benefits society. The hadith emphasizes that the most beloved people to Allah are those most beneficial to others.
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this narration shows how the Companions continuously reflected upon the Prophet's statements, seeking deeper understanding as events unfolded. This exemplifies proper adherence to the Sunnah - not merely memorizing words, but comprehending meanings through lived experience.
The chronological clarification regarding Sauda's later passing during Muawiya's caliphate demonstrates the meticulous preservation of historical accuracy in hadith transmission, ensuring no confusion arises about the sequence of events.