An-Nu`man bin Abi `Aiyash, on hearing me, said. "Did you hear this from Sahl?" I said, "Yes." He said, " I bear witness that I heard Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri saying the same, adding that the Prophet (ﷺ) said: 'I will say: They are of me (i.e. my followers). It will be said, 'You do not know what they innovated (new things) in the religion after you left'. I will say, 'Far removed, far removed (from mercy), those who changed (their religion) after me."
Hadith Commentary: The Prophet's Intercession for His Ummah
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 6584 in the Book "To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq)" reveals the Prophet's immense love and concern for his Ummah. The chain of transmission through An-Nu`man bin Abi `Aiyash, Sahl, and Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri establishes its authenticity according to classical standards.
The Context of Intercession
On the Day of Judgment, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) will intercede for his followers, declaring "They are of me" - affirming their connection to him. This demonstrates the principle of shafa'ah (intercession) granted to the Prophet, showing his continued responsibility toward his Ummah even after his earthly departure.
The Divine Response and Its Meaning
Allah will inform the Prophet about the religious innovations (bid'ah) introduced after his death. The phrase "You do not know what they innovated" indicates that while the Prophet knows generally about potential deviations, the specific manifestations are revealed at this moment.
The Prophet's Distancing Declaration
The repetition of "Far removed, far removed" (Suhqan, Suhqan) emphasizes complete disassociation from those who introduced innovations. This severe condemnation targets those who fundamentally altered the religion, not minor misunderstandings. Classical scholars interpret this as referring to major heretical innovations that distort Islamic fundamentals.
Scholarly Implications
Imam al-Bukhari placed this hadith in "Ar-Riqaq" to soften hearts toward religious sincerity. Scholars explain this warns against bid'ah while comforting the righteous with the Prophet's intercession. The true followers remain under his protection, while innovators face divine rejection. This serves as both warning and consolation for the Ummah.