" O people." I said to that girl: Keep away from me. She said: He (the Holy Prophet) has addressed the men only and he has not invited the attention of the women. I said: I am amongst the people also (and have thus every right to listen to the things pertaining to religion). Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: I shall be your harbinger on the Cistern; therefore, be cautious lest one of you should come (to me) and may be driven away like a stray camel. I would ask the reasons, and it would be said to me: You don't know what innovations they made after you. And I would then also say: Be away.
The Book of Virtues - Sahih Muslim 2295a
This narration from Sahih Muslim contains profound wisdom regarding the Final Day and the Prophet's intercession. The incident begins with a woman asserting her right to religious knowledge, demonstrating that Islamic teachings encompass all believers regardless of gender.
The Warning Against Innovation
The Prophet's statement about driving people away "like a stray camel" serves as a severe warning against religious innovation (bid'ah). Those who introduce new practices into Islam after the Prophet's time risk being denied his intercession.
The phrase "You don't know what innovations they made after you" indicates that some Muslims will deviate from the pure teachings of Islam, introducing practices not sanctioned by the Quran or Sunnah.
The Hawd (Cistern) and Intercession
The Hawd refers to the reservoir from which the Prophet will give water to his followers before entering Paradise. This highlights Muhammad's role as intercessor for his ummah on Judgment Day.
The rejection of some believers from the Hawd demonstrates that mere claim of faith is insufficient without adherence to authentic Islamic teachings and avoidance of heretical innovations.