The Way of the Believer

THE WAY OF THE BELIEVER Sahih al-Bukhari contains numerous narrations related to the Quran under Kitab al-Tafsir (The Book of Quranic Commentary). In the commentary on chapter 49, one incident is reported through two separate chains of transmission. Ibn Abi Mulaykah (d. 117 AH), a Tabi‘i and a judge in al-Ta’if, narrated: Two noble companions were nearly destroyed— meaning Abu Bakr and Umar. They raised their voices in the presence of the Prophet of Islam. This happened when a delegation from the tribe of Banu Tamim came to Madinah. Abu Bakr suggested that al-Qa‘qa‘ ibn Ma‘bad be appointed as their leader. Umar suggested al-Aqra‘ ibn Habis. Abu Bakr said to Umar, “You only said that to oppose me.” Umar replied, “I didn’t intend to oppose you.” Then they began arguing, and their voices became raised— at which point the following verse was revealed: “Believers, do not push yourselves forward in the presence of God and His Messenger. Fear God—God hears all and knows all. Believers, do not raise your voices above the voice of the Prophet, and do not speak as loudly when speaking to him as you do when speaking to one another, lest your actions come to nothing without your realizing it.” (49:1-2) Abdullah bin al-Zubayr, grandson of Abu Bakr, reported that after this verse was revealed, Umar’s way of speaking changed completely. When he spoke in the presence of the Prophet of