(Sayyiduna Abu Zarr [radhiyallahu ‘anhu] – Part Five)
Together with acquiring profound knowledge from Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was equally diligent in implementing his blessed teachings. This can clearly be seen from the following incident:
On one occasion, a group of travellers passed by Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and noticed that he was wearing a piece of garment while his slave was wearing the other piece of the same set. Seeing this, they remarked, “If you had worn both (pieces), it would have been a (complete) set (and would look more presentable).” Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) then explained the reason, recounting an incident that had taken place during the lifetime of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam):
Once, during an argument with a slave, Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) uttered a remark that carried a trace of racial pride. The slave complained to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) who reproached Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) saying, “O Abu Zarr! Indeed, you are a man in whom there is (still a trace of) jaahiliyyah (the days of ignorance).”
Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) then advised him, “They (i.e. the slaves) are your brothers whom Allah has placed under your authority. So feed them from what you eat and clothe them with what you wear. Do not burden them with tasks beyond their ability, and if you do assign them something difficult, then assist them.” (Saheeh Bukhaari #30 & Fat-hul Baari and Saheeh Muslim #4313)
From that moment onwards, Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) became exceptionally careful to treat his slaves with utmost kindness, compassion, and equality.
In another narration, it is mentioned that Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was once gifted two pieces of garment. In his zeal to maintain equality between himself and his slave, he used one piece to cover the lower half of his body together with another garment for the upper part, and he gave the second piece to his slave. When he later appeared before the people, they remarked, “Had you worn both together, it would have been more beautiful.” Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) responded by quoting the same statement of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) concerning the treatment of slaves. (Tabaqaat Ibni Sa’d vol. 4, pg. 237)
Honesty and truthfulness were so deeply rooted in Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) himself testified to these qualities saying, “Neither has the sky shaded nor has the earth carried any person more truthful and faithful than Abu Zarr (i.e. he is among the most truthful of people). (He is) like ‘Eesa bin Maryam (‘alaihis salaam) (in his humility).” (Sunan Tirmizi #3802 and Mirqaat #6238)
In this light, he was exceptionally steadfast in upholding the truth, undeterred by criticism or consequence. On one occasion, Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) declared, “By Allah! If you were to place a sword upon this – pointing to his throat – for me to leave out a word which I heard from Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), I would still convey it before that happens (that you sever my head).” (Tabaqaat Ibni Sa’d vol. 2, pg. 354)
Like all the noble Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum), Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was distinguished for his generosity and warm hospitality. When he would milk his goat, he would first serve the milk to his neighbours and guests before taking any for himself. One evening, he was seen milking his goat until not a drop remained in its udders. He then presented (the milk along with) a few dates to his guests and humbly said, “If we had anything better than this, we would have brought it (for you).” He then spent that night without eating anything himself. (Tabaqaat Ibni Sa’d vol. 4, pg. 235)
Lessons:
1. Acknowledging one’s faults and striving to reform oneself is a rare but essential quality for spiritual progress. When Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) pointed out the trace of jaahiliyyah in him, Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) immediately corrected his conduct and even went beyond what was required to ensure equality between himself and his slave. Sincere self-reformation is the key to attain true piety.
2. True nobility lies in the manner one treats those under one’s care or authority. Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) embodied this by upholding fairness and kindness towards his slave, perfectly reflecting the noble guidance of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Humility, justice, and compassion towards all, regardless of status, are hallmarks of righteousness.
3. A defining trait of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) and the pious predecessors was their selflessness and generosity. Sayyiduna Abu Zarr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) would serve his guests before himself and give preference to others even when he possessed little, spending the night hungry while others were fed.
