Understanding the Pause in Revelation: Lessons from the Hadith of Jibreel’s Appearance
Lessons from the Hadith of Jibreel’s Appearance
Let’s reflect on a significant moment in the life of our beloved Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, as narrated by Jabir bin Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him):
The Period of Revelation Pause
Narrated Jabir bin `Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him):
I heard the Prophet ﷺ describing the period of pause of the Divine Inspiration. He said in his talk, “While I was walking, I heard voices from the sky. I looked up, and behold! I saw the same Angel who came to me in the cave of Hira’ sitting on a chair between the sky and the earth. I was too much afraid of him (so I returned to my house) and said, ‘Fold me up in garments!’ They wrapped me up. Then Allah revealed: ‘O you wrapped…and desert the idols before the Prayer became compulsory.’ Rujz means idols.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 4922)
Understanding the Hadith
In this hadith, Jabir bin Abdullah narrates that he heard the Prophet ﷺ talk about the pause in Revelation, referring to the period when the Prophet ﷺ did not receive any Revelations from Allah. This pause occurred after the initial Revelations, and then the angel Jibreel came to the Prophet ﷺ again. The Prophet ﷺ described how he was walking when he heard a voice from the sky, looked up, and saw angel Jibreel in his original form, sitting on a chair between the sky and earth.
Significance of Jibreel’s Appearance
In another narration by Ibn Mas’ud and collected in the Musnad of Imam Ahmad, the Prophet ﷺ saw Jibreel (peace be upon him) in the upper part of Paradise at the Lote Tree having six hundred wings, with multi-colored pearls and rubies falling from the feathers of his wings. This shows that angels are mighty creatures of Allah.
Lessons and Reflections
- Perseverance and Patience: The pause in Revelation shows that even the Prophet ﷺ faced times of uncertainty. Despite this, he remained steadfast and patient, eventually receiving further guidance. Allah says in the Quran: “So be patient with gracious patience.” (Surah Al-Ma’arij, 70:5). This teaches us the importance of perseverance and patience during times of difficulty or pause in spiritual growth.
- The Importance of Purification: The ayahs revealed to the Prophet ﷺ instructed him to purify himself and his garments. This highlights the significance of physical and spiritual purification in Islam. The Quran emphasizes this in Surah Al-Baqarah: “Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.” (2:222). It reminds us to strive for purity in our actions, intentions, and worship.
- Shunning Idolatry and Evil Deeds: The command to shun idols underscores the importance of avoiding idolatry and any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah). Allah says in Surah An-Nisa: “Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin.” (4:48). It is a call to uphold tawhid (the oneness of Allah) and steer clear of any practices that lead us away from pure monotheism.
- Seeking Comfort and Support: When the Prophet ﷺ was frightened, he sought comfort from his beloved wife, Khadeeja (may Allah be pleased with her). This teaches us the importance of seeking support and solace from our loved ones during times of distress. The Quran advises in Surah Ash-Shura: “And those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.” (42:36).
Conclusion
As we reflect on this hadith, let us strive to emulate the qualities of our beloved Prophet ﷺ. Let us remain patient and steadfast in our faith, prioritize purification, shun all forms of idolatry and evil, and seek comfort in the support of our loved ones.
O Allah! Indeed we ask You for beneficial knowledge, abundant halal provision, and righteous actions which are accepted. Aameen!
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