How authentic are the narrations which are usually quoted about the events before the demise of Rasulullah (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) like the introduction of the angel of death by Jibril (‘alayhis salam) and the permission sought by the angel of death to extract the soul of Rasulullah (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) etc.
Answer
It would be better if you specify which narration you are specifically referring to.
However there is a lengthy narration which is reported via several chains on the authority of Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu ‘anhu) and other members of his family which has the mention of Jibril (‘alayhis salam) introducing the angel of death and the angel of death seeking the permission of Nabi (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) before taking his life.
This narration is recorded by the following Muhaddithun:
1) Imam Shafi’i (rahimahullah)
(See Khasaisul Kubra of Imam Suyuti, vol. 2 pg. 582 and Subulul Huda War Rashad, vol. 12 pg. 263)
2) Ibn S’ad (rahimahullah)
(At Tabaqatul Kubra, vol. 2 pg. 258)
3) Imam Tabarani (rahimahullah)
(Al Mu’jamul Kabir, vol. 2 pg. 718)
4) Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah)
(Dalailun Nubuwwah, vol. 7 pg. 267)
After citing this narration Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah) says that the different chains acquire collective strength, which is sufficient to prove that this hadith has a basis.
(Dalailun Nubuwwah, vol. 7 pg. 269)
Imam Salihi (rahimahullah) mentions that Imam Baqiy ibn Makhlad (rahimahullah) -demise: 276 A.H- has also recorded this narration (probably in his ‘Musnad’ which is unavailable today) with a reliable chain of narrators.
(Subulul Huda War Rashad, vol. 12 pg. 263)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar