What is the authenticity of the following narration?
Abu Darda (radiyallahu ‘anhu) says:
The Sahabah (radiyallahu ‘anhum) were once discussing family ties by Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). So they said, ‘Whomsoever joins family ties, his lifespan will increase’. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) explained, ‘A person’s lifespan will not be lengthened for Allah Ta’ala says, ‘When their appointed time comes, they will neither be able to delay it a moment nor advance it’ [Surah A’araf, verse: 34]. This refers to A person who leaves behind a pious progeny who will make du’a for him after his demise and this du’a will reach him. This is what is meant by ‘his lifespan will increase.’
Answer
Imam Tabarani (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration. Hafiz Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) has declared the chain weak.
(Al Mu’jamul Awsat, Hadith: 34, Fathul Bari, Hadith: 5985. Also see: Majma’uz Zawaid, vol. 8 pg. 153)
Note:
1) Imam Bukhari has recorded the narration which states that joining family ties increases one’s sustenance and increases his lifespan (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 5985 and 5986)
2) The Muhaddithun have offered other explanations as well for the narration which the Sahabah were discussing. The Hadith in question should be viewed as one explanation. (See Fathul Bari, Hadith: 5985)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar