Is this Hadith authentic?
قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: أنزل الله عليّ أمانين لأمتي وما كان الله ليعذبهم وأنت فيهم وما كان الله معذبهم وهم يستغفرون [الأنفال: 33] فإذا مضيت تركت فيهم الاستغفار إلى يوم القيامة
Answer
Imam Tirmidhi (rahimahullah) has recorded this Hadith on the authority of Sayyiduna Abu Musa (radiyallahu ‘anhu). He has declared the Hadith weak.
(Sunan Tirmidhi, Hadith: 3082)
However, Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) has recorded a similar corroborating narration. (Musnad Ahmad, vol. 4 pg. 393). The Hadith in question is well corroborated and suitable to quote.
See another corroborating narration here.
Translation
Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Allah Ta’ala revealed two [guarantees] of safety for my ummah; ‘[Allah mentions] Allah does not punish people while you [Nabi sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam] are present in their midst nor does Allah punish people while they are asking His forgiveness (Surah Al Anfal, Verse: 33).’ When I pass away, I will still leave seeking forgiveness till the Day of Qiyamah [thus those who seek forgiveness will be safe].’”
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar