"Whoever spends on a pair (of things) in the cause of Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, he will be called in Paradise: 'O slave of Allah, here is prosperity, Whoever is one of the people of Salah, he will be called from the gate of salah. Whoever is on of the people of charity, he will be called from the gate of Ar-Rayyan.' Abu Bakr As-Siddiq said: 'O Messenger of Allah, no distress or need will befall the one who is called from those gates. Will there be anyone who will be called from all these gates?' The Messenger of Allah said: 'Yes, and I hope that you will be one of them."'
Hadith Commentary: The Gates of Paradise
This noble hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i (2238) describes the magnificent rewards for various acts of worship and the special gates through which the righteous will enter Paradise. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) enumerates three categories of worshippers who will be summoned through specific gates corresponding to their predominant good deeds.
The Three Gates Mentioned
The Gate of Prosperity: For those who spend "a pair" in Allah's cause - indicating generous spending of one's best and most cherished possessions, not merely leftovers. This reflects complete sincerity in financial devotion.
The Gate of Prayer (Salah): For those consistently performing the five daily prayers with devotion and perfection. This gate honors those who maintained their connection with Allah through regular worship.
The Gate of Ar-Rayyan: Specifically for those who fasted regularly, as mentioned in other authentic narrations. The name "Rayyan" signifies satisfaction and quenching of thirst, appropriate reward for those who endured thirst and hunger for Allah's sake.
Abu Bakr's Insightful Question
The noble companion Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) demonstrates his deep understanding by asking about being called from all gates. His question shows his aspiration for comprehensive excellence in worship rather than excellence in only one area.
The Comprehensive Reward
The Prophet's affirmative response indicates that some exceptional believers will excel in all forms of worship - prayer, fasting, charity, and other good deeds. His hope that Abu Bakr would be among them confirms Abu Bakr's elevated status and serves as inspiration for all Muslims to strive for comprehensive righteousness.
Scholarly Observations
Classical scholars note that this hadith encourages balance in worship and excellence in all aspects of religious practice. It demonstrates Islam's comprehensive nature, where all forms of righteous deeds are valued and rewarded. The specific naming of gates provides tangible motivation for believers to perfect their acts of worship.