"Were it not that it would be too difficult for my Ummah, I would not have stayed behind from any expedition. But they could not find mounts, and I could not find any mounts for them, and it would be too hard for them to stay behind when I went out. And I wish that I could be killed in the cause of Allah, then brought back to life, then killed, then brought back to life, then killed," three times.
The Book of Jihad - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3151
"Were it not that it would be too difficult for my Ummah, I would not have stayed behind from any expedition. But they could not find mounts, and I could not find any mounts for them, and it would be too hard for them to stay behind when I went out. And I wish that I could be killed in the cause of Allah, then brought back to life, then killed, then brought back to life, then killed," three times.
Exposition of the Hadith
This noble hadith reveals the profound love of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for jihad in Allah's cause and his immense compassion for his Ummah. The Messenger of Allah expresses his ardent desire to participate in every military expedition, yet his mercy toward his companions prevents him, as they lacked the necessary mounts and provisions.
The Prophet's statement demonstrates the principle of removing hardship (raf' al-haraj) from the Muslim community. Though he personally yearned for continuous jihad, he prioritized the welfare of his followers, showing that Islamic leadership requires balancing spiritual aspirations with practical considerations for the community's capability.
Spiritual Aspiration for Martyrdom
The Prophet's repeated wish to be killed, resurrected, and killed again illustrates the highest level of love for meeting Allah. This isn't mere rhetoric but reflects the ultimate aspiration of the believers - to repeatedly sacrifice one's life for divine pleasure. Scholars explain this expresses the intensity of desire for martyrdom's reward and proximity to Allah.
This teaching elevates the status of shahadah (martyrdom) in Islam, showing it isn't a single occurrence to be sought but a continuous state of devotion. The repetition emphasizes the perpetual nature of striving in Allah's path and the boundless reward awaiting the martyrs.
Practical Guidance for the Ummah
This hadith teaches us that while jihad remains a supreme act of worship, it must be undertaken with proper preparation and consideration of collective capability. The Prophet's restraint despite his personal desire sets the example for Muslims to balance spiritual zeal with practical wisdom.
Furthermore, it inspires believers to cultivate such love for Allah that they yearn for repeated opportunities to prove their devotion, whether through physical jihad or through the greater jihad of self-purification and steadfastness in faith.