- On the Prophet's anniversary, it's important to revisit his status and the differences in how Muslims perceive it, particularly between Sunni and Shi'a views.
- Sunnis often distinguish between the Prophet's "official" and "personal" statements, with only the official ones considered binding, whereas Shi'as view all of his statements as divinely inspired and thus equally important.
- The Shi'a perspective is that deciding whether a statement is official or personal is problematic and undermines the absolute obedience commanded by the Qur'an.
- The issue of succession and the Prophet's status was evident during his last days, especially in the incident known as "the sorrow of Thursday," where his attempt to write a will was opposed.
- Narrations from Sahih al-Bukhari describe how some companions, particularly 'Umar ibn Khattab, resisted the Prophet’s request to write a will, questioning his sanity or suggesting that the Qur'an alone was sufficient.
- The Prophet's reaction to this opposition, as recorded, included statements that suggested frustration or disapproval of the dispute.
- The event highlights a divide between those who believed in complete adherence to the Prophet's wishes and those who felt they could judge the necessity of his commands.
- Two years later, Abu Bakr's appointment of 'Umar as his successor was accepted, including modifications made by the scribe, raising questions about the consistency in accepting or rejecting succession instructions.
- Historical accounts, such as those from Ibn Abil Hadid and Tabari, reveal how some leaders, including 'Umar, justified their actions by claiming concern for Islam while undermining the Prophet’s clear instructions.
- The debate over the Prophet's succession and the subsequent actions of early Muslim leaders reflect a broader issue of loyalty to the Prophet's teachings versus political considerations.

28th Safar 1446 AH
Sunday, September 1st 2024

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