"While the Prophet was with his Companions a man from among the desert people came and said: 'Which of you is the son of 'Abdul-Muttalib?' They said: 'This Anghar man who is reclining on a pillow.' (One of the narrators) Hamzah said: "Amghar means white with a reddish complexion.'- The man said: 'I am going to ask you questions and I will be harsh in asking.' He said: 'ask whatever you like.' He said: 'I ask you by your Lord and the Lord of those who came before you, and the Lord of those who will come after you; has Allah sent you?' He said: 'By Allah, yes.' He said: 'I adjure you by Him, has Allah commanded you to offer five prayers each day and night?' He said: 'By Allah, yes.; He said: 'I adjure you by Him, has Allah commanded you to take from the wealth of our rich and give it to our poor?' he said: 'By Allah, yes He said: 'I adjure you by Allah, has Allah commanded you to fast this month out of the twelve months?' He said: 'By Allah, yes.' He said: 'I adjure you by Him, has Allah commanded you to go on pilgrimage to this House, where can afford it?' He said: 'By Allah yes.' He said: 'I belive, and I am Dimam bin Thalabah."'
The Book of Fasting - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2094
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i presents a profound dialogue between the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and Dimam bin Thalabah, a desert dweller, wherein the fundamental pillars of Islam are affirmed through solemn oaths.
Scholarly Commentary on the Dialogue
The Bedouin's direct questioning methodology demonstrates the clarity and accessibility of Islamic teachings. His repeated invocation "By Allah" indicates the seriousness of his inquiry and the absolute certainty required in matters of faith.
The Prophet's unwavering responses "By Allah, yes" to each question confirm the divine origin of these obligations, leaving no room for doubt or interpretation regarding their compulsory nature.
The Status of Fasting in Islam
When asked about fasting one month annually, the Prophet's affirmative response establishes Ramadan's fasting as a fundamental pillar ordained by Allah. This confirms its position alongside prayer, charity, and pilgrimage as essential acts of worship.
The specification "this month out of the twelve months" indicates the unique status of Ramadan, distinguishing it from voluntary fasts throughout the year and emphasizing its obligatory nature.
The Immediate Acceptance of Faith
Dimam's immediate declaration of belief after receiving clear answers demonstrates how straightforward evidence leads to conviction. His statement "I believe" shows that proper understanding of Islam's pillars naturally leads to faith without hesitation.
This incident serves as a timeless model for da'wah (invitation to Islam), showing that presenting Islam's clear obligations can lead to immediate acceptance when conveyed with certainty and clarity.