While Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal (the renowned Imam and scholar) was traveling, nightfall caught him in a certain town. He prayed and decided to spend the night in the mosque. Out of humility, he chose not to introduce himself to anyone, as he did not seek recognition. Those were the times when people were aware of renowned figures, they often didn't know what they looked like.
However, he was prevented from doing so by the mosque guard because the guard did not recognize him, as he was from another city. The Imam tried to convince the guard, but to no avail. The mosque guard then removed him from the mosque area.
A baker next to the mosque saw the scene and he offered him a place to stay for the night, and the Imam accepted the baker's invitation.
While the Imam rested, his baker stayed occupied throughout the night, preparing his dough for baking bread, to sell in the morning. Imam Ahmad observed as the baker all the while (the baker) continuously reciting the remembrance of Allah and seeking forgiveness (Istighfar). The Imam was amazed!
When morning came, Imam Ahmad asked the baker about his continuous seeking of forgiveness during the night. The baker replied, "As long as I am preparing the dough and kneading it, I seek forgiveness."
Imam Ahmad then asked, "Have you found any fruit from seeking forgiveness?" He asked this question, knowing very well the benefits of seeking forgiveness!
The baker replied, "Yes, by Allah, I have not made a single supplication without it being answered, except for one."
Imam Ahmad asked, "What is that supplication?"
The baker responded, "To see Ahmad ibn Hanbal!"
Imam Ahmad then said, "I am Ahmad ibn Hanbal, and by Allah, I was drawn to you!"
Subhanallah! We can learn a lot from this short story, the impact of dhikr and istighfar, as it opens doors to blessings and is a means for your du'as to be answered.
Hospitality is also highlighted as a key lesson, as welcoming guests brings blessings, and they should never be turned away.
The baker's remembrance of Allah (dhikr) did not hinder him from fulfilling his work but rather made him more attentive to both Allah and the needs of others.
Additionally, Allah's subtle and compassionate plans (Al-Lateef) are evident, as what initially appeared as a negative event—being denied entry to the mosque—led to a beneficial outcome for both the Imam and the baker. Lastly, Imam Ahmad's humility shines through, as he chose not to use his fame for personal gain, even when it would have brought him great comfort.
Shukran and Jazakumullahu Kheir.
Take these lessons to heart, and don't forget to share them with others.
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Islamic stories
SpiritualHere are some stories that provide a glimpse of life of the Prophet's ( peace be upon them), sahabas, caliphs, Islamic scholars, stories from the Quran and some hadiths. These stories are not my works but a collection of research from reliable and...
