Understanding The Prophet's Life
From Issue: 864 [Read full issue]
Diffusion of Sunna
The Prophet (peace be upon him) took the following measures to spread his Sunna:
1. Establishment of schools
'Schools' were established by the Prophet in Madina very soon after his arrival. His general policy was to send teachers and preachers to different areas outside Madina. For example delegates were sent to Adhal and Qara in 3 A.H., to Bir Mauna in 4 A.H., to Najran and to Yemen and Hadramaut in 9 A.H.
2. The Prophet's directions about diffusion of knowledge
The Prophet says: "Pass on knowledge from me even if it is only one verse." [Bukhari]
The same emphasis is noticeable in his orations at the farewell Hajj where the Prophet said: "Those who are present (here) should convey the message to those who are absent." [Bukhari] It was therefore, a common practice among Companions to tell absentees about the Prophet's deeds and sayings.
3. Creation of incentive for teachers and students
The Prophet not only gave directions to educate the people but also mentioned great rewards for teachers and students. He stated that learning and the pursuit of knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim [Ibn Majah]. One who conceals knowledge is liable to go to Hell [Musnad], a fact which is mentioned in the Quran [Quran 2: 159, 174].
a) Reward for students:
The Prophet said: "If any one pursues a path in search of knowledge Allah will thereby make easy for him a path to paradise, and the angels spread their wings from good pleasure with one who seeks knowledge, and all the inhabitants of the heavens and the earth, even fish in the depths of water, ask forgiveness for him." [Musnad]
b) Reward for teachers:
In this regard the Prophet said: "When a man dies, his acts come to an end, with three exceptions: Sadaqa Jariya (recurring charity), knowledge from which benefit continues to be reaped, and the prayers of a good offspring for him." [Muslim] It applies to both male and female.
Compiled From:
"Studies in Hadith Methodology and Literature" - M. M. Azami, pp.10, 11