Standard of Obedience

Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ud was once walking towards a gathering which was being held in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa). He was still on the path outside, when he heard the following words of the Holy Prophet (sa), “Sit down!” Hazrat Abdullah bin Mas’ud had not yet reached the gathering. However, he heard this voice of the Holy Prophet (sa) while he was on the path outside and he immediately sat down and dragged himself to the mosque. When a person, criticised him and asked him what kind of foolishness this was. Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ud replied saying, “I heard a commandment of the Holy Prophet (sa), if I were to die before I reached the mosque, I would not wish to die in a state of disobedience to the Holy Prophet (sa). This was the extraordinary obedience and spirit of following the Holy Prophet (sa) in every step which he possessed. This is why despite the fact that the Companions were completely illiterate; and it was commonly stated that there were only 7 literate people in the whole of Mecca, in spite of this they triumphed over the whole world. Hence, as a result of their obedience this is the station they attained and the success they gained. Therefore, we must always remember this particular point. This is the example that every Ahmadi must try to follow.