"The Prophet sent Abdullah bin Rawahah to lead a military detachment, and that corresponded to a Friday. So his companions left early in the day, and he said: 'I will remain behind to pray with Allah's Messenger then meet up with them.' When he prayed with the Prophet, he saw him and said: 'What prevented you from leaving earlier with your companions?' He said: 'I wanted to pray with you then meet up with them.' He said: 'If you have spent [all of] what is in the earth, you would not have achieved the virtue you have had you left early in the day with them.'"
Hadith Context & Significance
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 527) in "The Book on the Day of Friday" demonstrates the paramount importance of military expeditions in Islam's defensive framework. Abdullah bin Rawahah's initial intention, while pious, was superseded by the greater obligation of jihad when specifically mobilized.
Scholarly Commentary on Priorities
Classical scholars explain that the Prophet's response establishes a fundamental principle: specific communal obligations (fard kifayah) take precedence over general acts of worship when they conflict. The Friday prayer, while obligatory, could be performed later or shortened during travel, whereas the military preparation required timely presence.
Imam al-Tirmidhi and later commentators emphasize that the Prophet's words "if you have spent [all of] what is in the earth" indicate that no amount of voluntary worship can equal the reward of participating in an organized defensive effort when the Muslim community is mobilized.
Legal Rulings Derived
Jurists from all major schools derive from this hadith that soldiers mobilized for legitimate jihad are exempt from Friday prayer obligations if departure conflicts with prayer time. The Hanafi school particularly notes that military preparedness constitutes a valid excuse for missing congregational prayers.
This ruling extends to other time-sensitive communal obligations where the benefit of the Muslim community outweighs individual acts of worship, reflecting Islam's practical balance between spiritual and worldly responsibilities.
Spiritual Lessons
The incident teaches that sincerity in worship must be coupled with wisdom in understanding religious priorities. Abdullah bin Rawahah's desire to pray with the Prophet was commendable, but the higher virtue lay in strengthening the Muslim army.
Scholars note this exemplifies how Islam values intentions alongside correct application of religious knowledge, ensuring individual piety serves rather than hinders communal welfare.