Anas bin Malik (ra)

Birth and Family

Anas bin Malik (ra) was born in Medina ten years before the Hijra. His family belonged to the Najjar clan
of the tribe of Hazraj, one of Medina's leading tribes. His mother, Umm Sulaym Sahla bint Mihan (ra),
accepted Islam, while his father remained a non-Muslim and left Medina in protest.

Early Years and Arrival in Medina

Anas was a child of ten years old when Prophet Muhammad (saw) immigrated from Mecca to Medina.
He vividly recalled the excitement in Medina upon the Prophet's arrival, and how the children of the city
joyfully welcomed him. Anas was present when the Prophet arrived, and he and others were sent back
to the city to announce the Prophet's arrival. Anas' family held deep respect and affection for the
Prophet.

Service to the Prophet Muhammad (saw)

For around ten years, Anas bin Malik (ra) served as the personal attendant of Prophet Muhammad
(saw). He cared for the Prophet's needs at the mosque, prepared pre-dawn meals, and joined him in
prayers. Though too young for battles, Anas accompanied the Prophet during significant events. He
stood by the Prophet during the Battle of Badr, the Treaty of Hudaybiya, Haybar Expedition, Mecca's
Conquest, and the Farewell Pilgrimage.

Post-Prophet Era

After the passing of Prophet Muhammad (saw), Anas bin Malik (ra) continued to serve Islam. Abu Bakr
(ra) appointed him to collect alms in Bahrain. Under Umar's (ra) rule, Anas (ra) contributed to educating
Muslims in Basra and advised Umar as part of a companions' council. He also participated in military
campaigns and managed logistics.
Upholding Truth and Enduring Persecution

Anas (ra) confronted injustice during the Umayyad rule and suffered persecution. He opposed Umayyad
practices alongside companions like Jabir bin Abdullah (ra) and Sahl bin Sa'd (ra). Governor Hajjaj
publicly humiliated them. Anas appealed to Umayyad Caliph Abdul Malik bin Marwan, leading to the
return of his property and an apology.

Legacy and Contributions

Anas bin Malik (ra) spent most of his life in Basra, passing away at the age of 103 in 93 AH (711-12 AD).
He was the last Companion to die in Basra. His notable qualities included extensive service to the
Prophet (saw) and his dedication to disseminating knowledge. Anas (ra) learned various religious
matters from the Prophet and became a key source for insights into the Prophet's interactions, teaching
methods, and ethical practices.

Hadith Narrations and Teachings

Anas (ra) was a prolific transmitter of hadiths. He shared valuable teachings, including the importance of
preventing oppression, the connection between love and companionship, and the significance of
showing respect to both the young and the elderly. His narrations offer insights into the Prophet's
approach to education and behavior, guiding future generations in character development.

Anas ibn Malik's Exemplary Life

Anas ibn Malik's life closely mirrored the example of Prophet Muhammad (saw). He showed devotion in
prayers, emulation of the Prophet's actions, and dedication to hadith transmission. His role as an
attendant allowed him to observe and share numerous details about the Prophet's daily life. Anas (ra)
left a lasting legacy as a knowledgeable scholar and a faithful companion of the Prophet.
Anas ibn Malik's Contribution to Hadith Transmission

Anas (ra) was among the most prolific narrators of hadiths. He transmitted around 2286 hadiths, ranked
third among the "Increasers" (Mukthirun) of hadith transmission. His narrations provided insights into
various aspects of the Prophet's teachings, interactions, and guidance. His hadiths are found in major
collections like Bukhari and Muslim, contributing significantly to Islamic scholarship.

Selected Hadiths Narrated by Anas (ra)

Several hadiths narrated by Anas (ra) offer valuable wisdom, emphasizing compassion, respect for
elders, prioritizing the Hereafter, and relying on God's providence. His narrations shed light on the
consequences of one's actions in this life and the afterlife, as well as the importance of patience and
supplication during challenging times.

Below is a selection of hadith narrated by Anas (ra):

“Help the oppressor by preventing him from oppressing others.”

“You will be with those whom you love.”

“He who does not show mercy to the young and respect the rights of the elderly is not one of us.”

“If a young person shows respect to the elderly, God creates people who will in turn show respect to
him in his old age.”

Anas ibn Malik's Later Life and Death

Anas ibn Malik (ra) continued to lead an exemplary life after the Prophet's passing. He served in various
capacities, educated others, and endured persecution while remaining steadfast in his beliefs. His
extensive contributions to hadith transmission and Islamic teachings left a lasting impact on generations
to come. He passed away in Basra at the age of 103, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and knowledge.