When 'Uthman b. 'Affan intended to build the mosque (of the Prophet) the people did not approve of it. They liked that it should be kept in the same state. Thereupon he said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: He who built a mosque for Allah, Allah would build a house for him like it in Paradise.
The Book of Mosques and Places of Prayer - Sahih Muslim 533 b
This narration from the esteemed Companion 'Uthman ibn 'Affan demonstrates the virtue of constructing mosques for the sake of Allah alone. When the people expressed disapproval of renovating the Prophet's Mosque, preferring its original humble state, 'Uthman responded with this profound hadith to illuminate the divine reward for such acts.
Scholarly Commentary
The people's initial reluctance stemmed from their reverence for the mosque's original form, which held spiritual significance. However, 'Uthman's wisdom prevailed through his citation of Prophetic tradition, showing that expansion and beautification of mosques is praiseworthy when intention is purely for Allah's pleasure.
The phrase "Allah would build a house for him like it in Paradise" indicates that the celestial reward corresponds to the earthly construction in quality and beauty, not merely in form. This encourages Muslims to build mosques with excellence while maintaining purity of intention.
This hadith establishes that mosque construction is among the most virtuous deeds, with rewards extending into the eternal abode. It also demonstrates the Companions' meticulous preservation and application of Prophetic traditions in community affairs.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Scholars derive from this that mosque construction remains a recommended act throughout Islamic history, with the reward being proportionate to the effort and sincerity invested.
The incident also illustrates the proper methodology for resolving differences among Muslims - through reference to authentic Prophetic guidance rather than personal preference alone.