What is the reference for this narration:
Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said, “One bed [is sufficient] for a man, one for his wife and a third for a guest. The fourth one is for Shaytan”
Answer
Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) has recorded this Hadith on the authority of Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu ‘anhu).
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2084)
Having more than one requires is generally a sign of pride, boasting and becoming engrossed in the pleasures of this temporary abode, which is a reprehensible deed. Shaytan encourages these type of deeds. Therefore Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) attributed the extra bed to Shaytan.
Some commentators have preferred the literal meaning. When a person has an extra bed which he doesn’t need, Shaytan sleeps on that bed.
This will not apply when a person has some need for the extra bed. ‘Allamah Nawawi (rahimahullah) says, The Hadith in question does not apply to a person who has an extra bed to use during sickness.
(Refer: Sahih Muslim with Al Minhaj, Hadith: 5419 and Mirqat, Hadith: 4310)
This illustrates that having an extra bed for a future need is not wrong.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar