I saw Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) at the 'time when the `Asr prayer was due. Then the people were searching for water for ablution but they could not find any. Then some water was brought to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and he placed his hand in the pot and ordered the people to perform the ablution with the water. I saw water flowing from underneath his fingers and the people started performing the ablution till all of them did it.
Virtues and Merits of the Prophet (pbuh) and his Companions
Sahih al-Bukhari 3573
Narration Context
This blessed narration describes one of the manifest miracles granted to our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) - the flowing of water from between his noble fingers. This occurred when the Companions faced a critical shortage of water for ablution at the time of Asr prayer.
Scholarly Commentary
This miracle demonstrates Allah's confirmation of His Messenger's truthfulness and the special status granted to him. The flowing of water from his fingers resembles the miracle of Prophet Musa (Moses) when water flowed from the rock. Such miracles were not sought by the Prophet but granted by Allah to strengthen the faith of believers.
The timing during Asr prayer emphasizes the importance of congregational prayer and Allah's facilitation of worship for those who strive to fulfill their religious obligations. The Companions' search for water shows their dedication to purity before prayer.
Spiritual Lessons
This event teaches complete reliance on Allah during times of difficulty. It illustrates that divine assistance comes to those who persist in obedience despite challenges. The miracle also shows the Prophet's compassion in ensuring all Companions could perform ablution.
Scholars note that such miracles continue to strengthen the faith of Muslims throughout generations, serving as eternal proof of the Prophet's special connection with the Divine.