I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, "By Him in Whose Hands my life is! Were it not for some men who dislike to be left behind and for whom I do not have means of conveyance, I would not stay away (from any Holy Battle). I would love to be martyred in Allah's Cause and come to life and then get, martyred and then come to life and then get martyred and then get resurrected and then get martyred.
Exposition of Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 7226
This narration from the Book "Wishes" by Imam al-Bukhari reveals the profound longing of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) for martyrdom in the path of Allah. The Messenger begins with a solemn oath "By Him in Whose Hands my life is!" emphasizing the absolute sincerity and truthfulness of his statement, demonstrating the gravity of what follows.
The Prophet's Consideration for His Companions
The phrase "Were it not for some men who dislike to be left behind" illustrates the Prophet's compassionate leadership. He restrained his personal spiritual aspirations out of concern for those weaker companions who wished to participate in jihad but lacked means. This teaches us that collective welfare and consideration for others' circumstances take precedence over individual spiritual ambitions.
"For whom I do not have means of conveyance" further emphasizes the Prophet's practical compassion, showing he would not embark on military expeditions leaving behind sincere believers who genuinely desired to participate but were physically or financially unable.
The Spiritual Aspiration for Martyrdom
The repetition "I would love to be martyred... and come to life and then get martyred" three times expresses an intense, profound love for meeting Allah through martyrdom. This isn't mere rhetoric but reflects the highest level of certitude (yaqīn) and love for the Divine. Scholars explain this repetition indicates the ultimate desire for continuous service to Allah, where each martyrdom would be followed by another opportunity to sacrifice for His cause.
The sequence culminates with "and then get resurrected and then get martyred," indicating this longing extends beyond earthly life into the hereafter, showing the Prophet's perpetual readiness to sacrifice for Allah's pleasure across different states of existence.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes the supreme virtue of martyrdom in Islam and the immense reward awaiting the martyr. It also demonstrates the proper balance in Islamic spirituality - while aspiring for the highest stations, one must remain mindful of communal responsibilities and the practical needs of fellow believers.
The narration serves as a powerful reminder that the most beloved actions to Allah are those performed consistently, with sincerity, and while maintaining one's duties toward the Muslim community.