I wanted to know the authenticity and meaning of the following Hadith:
Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “In front of you is a difficult ascent, which those who are heavily laden cannot get over.” Abud Darda (radiyallahu ‘anhu) then said, “I therefore wish to lighten up for that ascent”
Answer
Imams Hakim and Bayhaqi (rahimahumallah) have recorded this Hadith on the authority of Sayyiduna Abud Darda (radiyallahu ‘anhu). Ummud Darda questioned her husband’s [simplicity]. His reply was this Hadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam).
Imam Hakim (rahimahullah) has declared the Hadith authentic and ‘Allamah Dhahabi concurs.
(Mustadrak Hakim, vol. 4 pg. 574, Shu’abul Iman, Hadith: 9923. Also see Hadith: 9922)
This Hadith explains that there are difficulties and many stages one has to pass before entering Jannah. i.e. Death, the grave, resurrection and the terrors of the Day of Qiyamah. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) likened these to ascending a mountain as a person encounters difficulties when attempting such an arduous task.
Those who live simply and own less, will have less to account for, thereby making their task much easier.
(Refer: Mirqat, Hadith: 5204)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar