The Best of Generations (Hadith No. 2541)

Bismillah.

Volume 4, Book 52, Number 146 :
Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri (radiallaahu `anhu)
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) said, “A time will come when groups of people will go for Jihad and it will be asked, ‘Is there anyone amongst you who has enjoyed the company of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam)?’ The answer will be, ‘Yes.’ Then they will be given victory (by Allah) (because of him). Then a time will come when it will be asked. ‘Is there anyone amongst you who has enjoyed the company of the companions of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam)?’ It will be said, ‘Yes,’ and they will be given victory (by Allah). Then a time will come when it will be said. ‘Is there anyone amongst you who has enjoyed the company of the companions of the companions of the Prophet?’ It will be said, ‘Yes,’ and they will be given victory (by Allah).”

This narration signifies the rank and honor of the companions, tabi’een and their followers – the three best generations according to the hadith of the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam):

It also proves that people get good from Allah because of the good ones among them. For example, there can be a community who gets Allah’s blessings not because they’re His favorites as a whole, but because there are some individuals/groups among them who are loved by Him, and He lets His Mercy rain on all of them.

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One for the Volunteers (Hadith No. 2531)

Bismillah.

Volume 4, Book 52, Number 136 :
Narrated by ‘Aisha (radiallaahu `anhaa)
The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) was vigilant one night and when he reached Medina, he said, “Would that a pious man from my companions guard me tonight!” Suddenly we heard the clatter of arms. He said, “Who is that? ” He (the new comer) replied, ” I am Sad bin Abi Waqqas and have come to guard you.” So, the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wasallam) slept (that night).

Volunteering: an altruistic activity intended to promote goodness or improve human quality of life. [Wikipedia]

Why volunteer? According to a very good HelpGuide article, volunteering has the following benefits:

• connects you to others
• good for your mind and body
• can advance your career
• brings fun and fulfillment to your life

While I agree with all of the above, I believe them to be secondary benefits of volunteering, primary being:

• pleasure of Allah
• reward in Hereafter

Because volunteering is a “good deed”, if done sincerely for Allah’s sake and not to show off or achieve any of the “secondary benefits”, Allah rewards us for it.

هَلْ جَزَاءُ الْإِحْسَانِ إِلَّا الْإِحْسَانُ

“Is the reward for good [anything] but good?” [55:60]

To be honest, keeping that sincerity in check is one tough job when others praise you for your hard work, or when things get rough with the very people you work with. Allah tests us in different situations to measure the level of our “Ihsan” so He can reward us for it accordingly.

If you’re a volunteer, keep at it; and if you’re not, start today! There’s always someone you can help for free (read: reward). :)