The will of Prophet Mohammed (ﷺ)
The claim made by the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light that Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was not given the opportunity to write a will is a selective and flawed interpretation of the historical context and textual evidence surrounding the incident of the "Calamity of Thursday."
During the Prophet's (ﷺ) final illness, he expressed a desire to convey guidance in writing to ensure the community's unity and prevent deviation after his passing. The incident, as recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and other authentic sources, describes how some companions hesitated to comply with the Prophet's request due to their concern for his health. This hesitation led to disagreement among those present.
However, the Prophet's subsequent statement, "Leave me, for my present state is better than what you are calling me to," signifies his choice to refrain from writing further due to the discord that had arisen-not because he was denied the opportunity to do so. This interpretation aligns with the Prophet's mission and character, as he prioritized unity and avoided actions that could deepen disputes among his companions.
The Claim Regarding Prophet Muhammad's Will
The claim that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) intended to write a will but was prevented by his companions due to his ill health is a subject of debate. However, the mainstream Islamic perspective, based on the Qur'an and authentic Hadiths, holds that the Prophet did not leave a written will appointing a specific successor or outlining new religious directives.
In Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1637, it is narrated that during his final illness, the Prophet asked for writing materials to convey a message. Some companions suggested bringing the materials, while others expressed concern about burdening him due to his severe illness. Observing the disagreement, the Prophet said, “Leave me, for my present state is better than what you are calling me to.” This statement indicates that he chose not to proceed, emphasizing that the existing guidance was sufficient.
The Qur'an affirms that the religion of Islam was perfected during the Prophet's lifetime. Allah says in Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:3):
هذا اليوم أكملتّ لكم دينكم دين بكم وديني كم دينكم
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.”
📔 Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:3)This verse signifies that all essential aspects of the religion were completed, and no further instructions were necessary.
Furthermore, the Prophet emphasized adherence to the Qur'an and his Sunnah as the primary sources of guidance. In a Hadith reported in Malik's Muwatta (Book 46, Hadith 3), the Prophet said:
قد تركتتي لكم حتى ما تاريخونه لالنمّا تحيذوه
“I have left behind two matters. As long as you hold to them, you will not go astray: the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Prophet.”
📔 Malik's Muwatta (Book 46, Hadith 3)Accusations that the companions prevented the Prophet from conveying essential guidance contradict the respect and trust that the Qur'an places in them. Allah praises the companions in Surah At-Tawbah (9:100):
السابقون من المهاجرين والأنصار والذين اتبعوهم بإحسان
“The first forerunners [in the faith] among the Muhajireen and the Ansar and those who followed them with good conduct-Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him.”
📔 Surah At-Tawbah (9:100)In light of these evidences, the assertion that the Prophet was obstructed from writing a will by his companions is not supported by the primary Islamic texts accepted by the majority of Muslims. The companions are revered for their commitment to Islam and their efforts in preserving the Prophet's teachings. Therefore, the guidance provided through the Qur'an and Sunnah is deemed complete and sufficient for the Muslim community.