They said: Sa'd fell ill in Mecca. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) visited him to inquire after his health. The rest of the hadith is the same.
The Book of Wills - Sahih Muslim 1628 h
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and may peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger Muhammad.
Context and Significance
This narration from Sahih Muslim concerns the illness of Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him) in Mecca and the Prophet's visit to him. The full hadith addresses the important matter of wills and bequests, particularly when one possesses substantial wealth.
The Prophet's personal visit demonstrates the importance of visiting the sick, showing compassion to companions, and attending to matters of inheritance before death approaches.
Scholarly Commentary
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani comments that this hadith establishes the sunnah of visiting the sick, especially those of virtue and status. The Prophet's action shows leaders should maintain close ties with their community members.
Imam al-Nawawi explains that the full narration teaches us about the obligation of making a will when one has debts or obligations to fulfill. The Prophet's guidance to Sa'd regarding how much to bequeath demonstrates the principle of moderation in bequests.
Al-Qurtubi notes that this incident occurred during the Farewell Pilgrimage, making the timing particularly significant as the Prophet was giving final instructions to his ummah about matters of enduring importance.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
The hadith establishes the recommended amount for bequests as one-third of one's estate, as exceeding this may disadvantage rightful heirs.
Scholars derive from this that visiting the sick is a collective obligation (fard kifayah) upon the Muslim community.
The narration emphasizes preparing for death through proper estate planning while maintaining the rights of inheritors prescribed by Islamic law.
Conclusion
This teaching combines practical legal guidance with profound spiritual wisdom, reminding believers of the transient nature of worldly possessions and the importance of preparing for the hereafter while maintaining social bonds and fulfilling religious obligations. And Allah knows best.