I would keep it in order to shroud myself in it. He then said: If Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, would have desired it for His Apostle, he would have been shrouded with it. So he sold it and gave its price in charity.
Commentary on the Hadith from Sahih Muslim 941a
This narration from The Book of Prayer - Funerals in Sahih Muslim concerns the proper disposition of valuable items that could be used for shrouding the deceased. The wisdom behind selling the valuable cloth and giving its price in charity demonstrates several important Islamic principles regarding funeral rites and moderation in burial practices.
Scholarly Interpretation
The companions understood that while valuable materials could be used for shrouding, the prophetic example favored simplicity and moderation. The statement "If Allah would have desired it for His Apostle, he would have been shrouded with it" indicates that what was sufficient for the Prophet (peace be upon him) should be sufficient for his followers.
This teaching prevents extravagance in funeral matters and redirects resources toward charitable purposes that benefit the living, which brings greater spiritual reward than lavish burial expenditures. The action exemplifies the balance between honoring the deceased and maintaining Islamic principles of moderation.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
Islamic scholars derive from this hadith that while using fine materials for shrouding is permissible, it is preferable to avoid extravagance. The money saved should be directed toward more beneficial purposes, particularly charity that continues to benefit the deceased through ongoing reward.
This ruling reflects the comprehensive wisdom of Islamic law, which considers both the rights of the deceased and the greater good of the community. It teaches Muslims to prioritize eternal rewards over temporary appearances in matters of burial.