"The Messenger of Allah came to me and there was a Jewish woman with me who was saying: 'You will be tested in your graves.' The Messenger of Allah got upset and said: 'Rather the Jews will be tested."' 'Aishah said: "A few nights later, the Messenger of Allah said: 'It has been revealed to me that you will be tested in your graves."' 'Aishah said; "Afterward I heard the Messenger of Allah seeking refuge with Allah from the torment of the grave.
Hadith Commentary: The Trial of the Grave
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i (2064) presents a profound theological matter concerning the intermediate state (barzakh) between death and resurrection. Initially, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) rejected the Jewish woman's assertion, demonstrating Islam's distinct identity and caution against uncritically accepting non-Islamic narratives.
Divine Revelation Corrects Initial Position
The subsequent revelation confirmed the reality of the grave's trial, illustrating how divine guidance supersedes initial human understanding. This exemplifies the Prophet's complete submission to revelation, even when it corrected his previous stance.
Theological Significance
Scholars explain that the trial (fitnah) involves questioning by angels Munkar and Nakir about one's faith. The believer will answer correctly by Allah's grace, while disbelievers will fail. This establishes the grave as either a garden from Paradise or a pit from Hell.
Practical Devotional Response
The Prophet's subsequent practice of seeking refuge from the grave's torment teaches Muslims to regularly include this supplication in prayers. This combines correct belief with practical devotion, transforming theological knowledge into worship.