We were listening with eagerness to an account of Imam Malik’s (ra) love for hadith last night.  We were transported back to his time whilst sitting in the masjid and we were all mesmerised by this great man and his love for the words of our beloved Prophet Muhammad .

In one story we were told that Imam Malik (ra) was once in his quarters and a knock came at his door.  His attendant went and opened the door and saw a small group of men outside.  He went to Imam Malik (ra) and said that there were a small group of men outside who wish to meet you.  Imam Malik (ra) asked his attendant to enquire of them if it was a fatwa they require or to listen to hadith.  The attendant then walked up to them and inquired of them the nature of their request.  He returned to Imam Malik (ra) and stated that they wished to listen to hadith.

Imam Malik then instructed that they come inside and to sit on the floor. He instructed his attendent to burn incense all around the room to honour the hadith of Rasulallah (saw).  Imam Malik (ra) then went and performed ghusl and adorned himself with his best clothes and anointed himself with his favourite fragrance.  He then came down to the room and sat with his students in front of him.

It was said of Imam Malik (ra) that he would sit with his head bowed down in total humbleness whilst the words of Rasulallah (saw) were recited allowed.  He would lean slightly forward and would only speak to correct them and to offer its meaning.

Subhanallah, this is a fantastic example of the etiquettes needed when the words of Prophet Muhammad are being recited.

May Allah give us all the ability to behave with the correct reverence and respect when listening or studying the hadith of Rasulallah (saw). Amin.

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