When would be the Last Hour? Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: What preparation have you made for the Last Hour? He said: The love of Allah and of His Messenger (is my only preparation). Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: You would be along with one whom you love. Anas said: Nothing pleased us more after accepting Islam than the words of Allah's Apostle: You would be along with one whom you love. And Anas said. I love Allah and His Messenger and Abu Bakr and Umar, and I hope that I would be along with them although I have not acted like them.
The Book of Virtue, Enjoining Good Manners, and Joining of the Ties of Kinship
Sahih Muslim - Hadith 2639d
Context and Meaning
This profound hadith addresses a companion's inquiry about the timing of the Last Hour. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) redirects the question from speculative knowledge to practical preparation, emphasizing that what truly matters is one's spiritual state and relationship with Allah and His Messenger.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's response teaches that preoccupation with unseen matters should not distract from essential spiritual work. The declaration "You would be along with one whom you love" establishes that sincere love for righteous beings - particularly Allah and His Messenger - becomes a means of divine proximity and companionship in the Hereafter.
This love is not mere emotion but encompasses obedience, emulation of character, and adherence to the Sunnah. The companion Anas ibn Malik's subsequent reflection demonstrates how this principle extends to love for the righteous predecessors like Abu Bakr and Umar, hoping for companionship through sincere affection despite perceived shortcomings in deeds.
Spiritual Implications
This teaching offers profound comfort to believers, indicating that genuine love for Allah and His chosen ones can transcend one's own imperfections. However, scholars clarify that such love must manifest in following the Prophet's example and upholding Islamic teachings.
The hadith emphasizes that ultimate success lies not in knowing hidden matters but in cultivating pure relationships with Allah and His righteous servants, making this the true preparation for the Hereafter.