Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal would often speak to his beloved daughter about his teacher, Imam al-Shafi‘i. He would describe in detail the Imam’s knowledge, intelligence, and depth of understanding.
Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal would often speak to his beloved daughter about his teacher, Imam al-Shafi‘i. He would describe in detail the Imam’s knowledge, intelligence, and depth of understanding.
Listening to all this, his daughter developed great admiration and love for the Imam.
One day, Imam Ahmad (RA) invited his respected teacher to his home as a guest. When the Imam arrived, he was received with great honor and hospitality.
After having dinner, the Imam lay down to sleep. Meanwhile, the daughter of Imam Ahmad (RA) carefully observed each of Imam al-Shafi‘i’s actions. She thought, “Isn’t this the great scholar my father always praises? There must be so much to learn and follow from him.”
When morning came, she expressed her concern:
“Father, is this really the Imam al-Shafi‘i you always speak about?”
“Yes, my daughter. What is the matter?”
“Father… I noticed three things:
He ate a lot at dinner.
I did not see him engage in special night عبادة (worship) or perform Tahajjud prayer.
When he joined us for the Fajr prayer, I did not see him perform ablution (wudu).”
To understand these observations, Imam Ahmad approached his teacher for an explanation.
To be continued, In sha' Allah…
Allah knows best.
اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى سَيِّدِنَا مُحَمَّدٍ
وَعَلَى آلِ سَيِّدِنَا مُحَمَّدٍ
وَبَارِكْ وَسَلِّمْ عَلَيْه
