I read on your website on this link, regarding Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radiyallahu ‘anhu) making space for Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu anhu).
There is a similar narration which mentions Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radiyallahu ‘anhu) making space for Sayyiduna ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhu), and Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) made the same statement, “Only virtuous people recognise other virtuous people.”
Please advise if this version of the narration will be suitable to quote?
Answer
Imam Ibn ‘Asakir (rahimahullah) has recorded this version of the narration.
(Tarikh Dimashq, vol. 26 pg. 334)
This chain consists of a narrator who has been declared extremely weak by Imams Bukhari, Abu Zur’ah and Daraqutni (rahimahumullah). Imam Ibn Ma’in (rahimahullah) has declared him very weak according to one narration and weak according to another.
The chain also consists of another narrator who has been declared a fabricator by Imam Ibn Ma’in (rahimahullah). ‘Allamah Dhahabi (rahimahullah) was of the opinion that he is not discredited.
(Mizanul I’tidal, vol. 2 pg. 73, number: 2766 and vol. 3 pg. 365, number: 365, Lisanul Mizan, vol. 6 pg. 364. Also see: Al Maqasidul Hasanah: 212)
Also see here.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar