The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Seventy-thousand or seven-hundred thousand of my followers (the narrator is in doubt as to the correct number) will enter Paradise holding each other till the first and the last of them enter Paradise at the same time, and their faces will have a glitter like that of the moon at night when it is full."
Hadith Text & Context
From Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Seventy-thousand or seven-hundred thousand of my followers (the narrator is in doubt as to the correct number) will enter Paradise holding each other till the first and the last of them enter Paradise at the same time, and their faces will have a glitter like that of the moon at night when it is full." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6543)
Scholarly Commentary on the Numbers
The uncertainty in numbers (70,000 vs 700,000) demonstrates that precise quantity is not the essential lesson. Scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain this indicates either successive groups totaling the larger number, or that the smaller number represents leaders while the larger includes their followers.
Imam al-Qurtubi notes this numerical flexibility emphasizes Allah's boundless mercy and the vastness of Paradise, where such multitudes can enter simultaneously without crowding.
Significance of "Holding Each Other"
This physical connection symbolizes the unity of the Muslim ummah in faith and brotherhood. Al-Nawawi comments this represents their spiritual connection in this world manifesting physically in the Hereafter, entering Paradise as one cohesive community.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explains this demonstrates the honor given to those who maintained strong bonds of faith and fellowship, entering together as a single entity.
The Luminous Faces
The comparison to the full moon's radiance indicates their purity and the light of faith that illuminated their hearts in worldly life. Scholars note this brilliance reflects their inner state - free from hypocrisy and filled with sincere belief.
Ibn al-Qayyim elaborates that just as the moon reflects the sun's light, these believers reflect the divine light of guidance they followed, their faces becoming mirrors of the spiritual illumination they attained.
Spiritual Lessons
This hadith from "To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)" inspires hope in Allah's mercy and encourages maintaining strong bonds with the righteous. It reminds believers that ultimate success lies in entering Paradise in the company of the faithful.
The simultaneous entry teaches that in divine grace, there is no competition or precedence based on worldly standards - all are honored equally through Allah's boundless generosity.