If a company of Muslims numbering one hundred pray over a dead person, all of them interceding for him, their intercession for him will be accepted.
Hadith Commentary
This narration from Sahih Muslim (947) in "The Book of Prayer - Funerals" indicates the immense virtue of collective supplication for the deceased. When one hundred believers unite in prayerful intercession, their combined spiritual appeal carries significant weight in the divine court.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that this demonstrates the power of communal prayer (du'a) and the importance of Muslims supporting one another even after death. The number one hundred signifies a substantial gathering, reflecting broad community concern.
The acceptance of intercession mentioned here refers to Allah's mercy being bestowed upon the deceased through the sincere prayers of the living. This intercession serves as a means of elevating the deceased's spiritual station and potentially obtaining forgiveness for shortcomings.
Practical Implications
This hadith encourages Muslims to participate in funeral prayers whenever possible, as each participant becomes an intercessor for the deceased. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of the Muslim community and the ongoing concern believers should have for one another's ultimate fate.
Scholars note that while the specific number one hundred is mentioned, the underlying principle applies to any substantial gathering, with larger numbers increasing the likelihood of acceptance due to the greater collective spiritual energy.