When Allah's Messenger (may peace he upon him) delivered the sermon, his eyes became red, his voice rose, and his anger increased so that he was like one giving a warning against the enemy and saying: "The enemy has made a morning attack on you and in the evening too." He would also say: "The Last Hour and I have been sent like these two." And he would join his forefinger and middle finger; and would further say: "The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the best of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. And the most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is error." He would further say:, I am more dear to a Muslim even than his self; and he who left behind property that is for his family; and he who dies under debt or leaves children (in helplessness), the responsibility (of paying his debt and bringing up his children) lies on me."
The Book of Prayer - Friday
Sahih Muslim 867 a
Exposition of the Prophet's Sermon
The noble hadith reveals the profound manner in which Allah's Messenger delivered his Friday sermons. His physical transformation - reddened eyes, elevated voice, and intensified anger - demonstrates the gravity with which he approached religious instruction. This was not mere oratory but a divine warning, akin to a military commander alerting his troops to imminent danger. The Prophet's comparison of himself and the Hour to two fingers illustrates their inseparable connection; his advent signals the nearness of the Final Day.
The Three Foundational Principles
First, the supremacy of Quranic revelation: "The best of speech is the Book of Allah" establishes the Quran as the ultimate criterion for all religious discourse. Second, the perfection of Prophetic guidance: "The best of guidance is Muhammad's guidance" confirms that the Sunnah constitutes the only authentic interpretation of Divine Revelation. Third, the condemnation of religious innovation: "Every innovation is error" serves as a protective fence around Islamic orthodoxy, warning against introducing novel practices into the religion.
The Prophet's Spiritual Guardianship
The declaration "I am more dear to a Muslim than his own self" establishes the metaphysical bond between the believer and the Prophet. This love transcends worldly attachments and necessitates prioritizing the Prophet's guidance over personal desires. Furthermore, the Prophet's assumption of responsibility for debts and orphans exemplifies his role as the spiritual father of the Ummah, establishing the principle that the Islamic community bears collective responsibility for its vulnerable members.