Seventy thousand people of my Ummah would be admitted into Paradise without rendering any account. They (the companions) said: Who would be of those (fortunate persons)? He (the Holy Prophet) said: Those who do not cauterise and practise charm, but repose trust in their Lord, 'Ukkasha then stood up and said: Supplicate (before) Allah that He should make me one among them. He (the Holy Prophet) said: Thou art one among them He (the narrator) said: A man stood up and said: Apostle of Allah, supplicate (before) Allah that He should make me one among them. He (the Prophet said: 'Ukkasha has preceded you (in this matter).
The Excellence of Trust in Allah
This blessed hadith from Sahih Muslim 218a reveals the immense virtue of complete reliance upon Allah (tawakkul) and abstaining from prohibited means. The seventy thousand who enter Paradise without reckoning represent those whose faith is pure, untainted by practices contradicting divine reliance.
Prohibited Practices Explained
"Do not cauterise" refers to seeking healing through fire branding while neglecting prayer and lawful remedies, indicating weak trust in Allah's decree.
"Practise charm" denotes using talismans, amulets, or spells that involve shirk or superstition, rather than relying solely on Allah's protection through legitimate Qur'anic supplications.
The Nature of True Tawakkul
Genuine trust in Allah does not negate taking lawful means (asbab), but rather using them while recognizing Allah as the true Causer of effects. The heart remains attached to the Creator, not the means.
The Incident of 'Ukkasha
'Ukkasha's immediate request demonstrates the companions' eagerness for spiritual excellence. The Prophet's affirmation shows that such high stations are attainable through sincerity and Allah's grace, not merely through deeds.
Scholarly Insights
Imam Nawawi comments that this group represents those perfected in tawhid, whose outward actions align with inward purity. Ibn Rajab notes that their avoidance of these specific practices indicates comprehensive avoidance of all innovations and superstitions.
The number seventy thousand signifies multitude, indicating Allah's abundant mercy upon this Ummah. The "without account" entry reflects those whose faith is so pure that their minor sins are forgiven without requiring the terror of judgment.