The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2289 a

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger.

Hadith Text

"I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: I shall be there at the Cistern before you."

Commentary on the Meaning

This noble hadith refers to the Hawd (Cistern) that Allah has granted to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in the Hereafter. The Hawd is a vast reservoir from which the believers will drink before entering Paradise, and it is one of the special honors bestowed upon our Prophet.

The statement "before you" indicates that the Prophet (ﷺ) will precede his ummah to this blessed place, awaiting their arrival to offer them this refreshing drink that will quench their thirst forever. This demonstrates his profound care and concern for his followers even in the afterlife.

Significance of the Hawd

The Hawd is described in authentic traditions as being as wide as the distance between Jerusalem and San'a, with water whiter than milk and sweeter than honey. Its drinking vessels are numerous like the stars in the sky. Whoever drinks from it once will never thirst again.

This promise serves as immense comfort to believers, knowing that after the hardships of the Day of Judgment, their Prophet will be waiting to provide them with this celestial refreshment.

Spiritual Lessons

This hadith inspires hope and strengthens the bond between the believer and the Prophet (ﷺ). It reminds us of his continuous intercession and concern for his ummah. It also encourages us to strive to be among those who will be granted access to this blessed reservoir by following his Sunnah and avoiding innovations.

May Allah make us among those who will drink from the Hawd of Muhammad (ﷺ) and grant us his intercession. Ameen.