My Cistern (is as wide and broad that it requires) a month's journey (to go round it) all, and its sides are equal and its water is whiter than silver, and its odour is more fragrant than the fragrance of musk, and its jugs (placed around it) are like stars in the sky; and he who would drink from it would never feel thirsty after that. Asma', daughter of Abu Bakr said: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: I would be on the Cistern so that I would be seeing those who would be coming to me from you, but some people would be detained (before reaching me). I would say: My Lord, they are my followers and belong to my Ummah, and it would be said to me: Do you know what they did after you? By Allah, they did not do good after you, and they turned back upon their heels. He (the narrator) said: lbn Abu Mulaika used to say (in supplication): O Allah, I seek refuge with Thee that we should turn back upon our heels or put to any trial about our religion.
The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2292, 2293
This narration from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) describes the Hawd al-Kawthar (The Cistern of Abundance) which Allah has granted him in the Hereafter. The description of its vastness requiring a month's journey, its pure white water surpassing silver, and its fragrant aroma exceeding musk demonstrates the magnificent honor bestowed upon the Prophet.
Scholarly Commentary on the Cistern's Description
The detailed description serves to emphasize the reality of this divine gift and its perfection. The comparison of jugs to stars indicates their great number and brilliance, while the eternal quenching of thirst symbolizes the spiritual satisfaction believers will experience.
Exposition on the Detained Followers
The painful scene where some followers are prevented from reaching the Cistern reveals the gravity of religious innovation (bid'ah) and apostasy. The divine response "they turned back upon their heels" indicates they abandoned the pure teachings of Islam after the Prophet's death through heresy or disbelief.
Ibn Abu Mulaika's Supplication
The companion's frequent supplication for protection from apostasy and religious trials demonstrates the early Muslims' awareness of this danger. This teaches us the importance of constantly seeking Allah's protection to remain steadfast upon the straight path.