What is Faith?

The call of paradise Bashir relates that when the Muslims of Makkah first emigrated to Madinah, the water of their new dwelling place did not agree with them. There was a well, however, known as Beir Rumah, owned by one of the Bani Ghefar tribe, the water of which was to the liking of the emigrants. The owner used to sell them a flask-full in exchange for one mudd (half bushel) of grain. The Prophet suggested to the owner that he should sell it to him “in exchange for a spring in Paradise.” “I and my household have no other source of livelihood,” the man explained. “I can’t just give it away to you like that.” Hearing of this incident Uthman ibn Affan bought the Well of Rumah from its owner for 35,000 dirhams, then came to the Prophet. “Shall I also have a spring in paradise in exchange for this well”, he asked. “You will indeed!” said the Prophet. Uthman then donated the well to the Muslims. (AL-TABARANI)