Once there was a severe dispute on a Mas’alah of Hajj between the Khalifah Sulaimaan Bin Abdul Maalik and his sons. The Khalifah asked for the whereabouts of Hadhrat Ataa’ Bin Abi Rabaah who was a very senior Taabi-ee famed for his knowledge and piety.
The Khalifah was informed that he would be found in Masjidul Haraam.
On arrival in Masjidul Haraam, the Khalifah saw a large crowd around Hadhrat Ataa’ who was giving a discourse. The Khalifah began piercing through the crowd to reach the front.
Hadhrat Ataa’ exclaimed: “O Ameerul Mu’mineen! Halt where you are. Do not step in front of the people, for verily, they were here before you.”
The Khalifah sat down among the people. When he was given the opportunity, he (the Khalifah) posed his question and Hadhrat Ataa’ replied.
On his return, the Khalifah said to his sons: “O my sons! Cultivate Taqwa and become reliable in the Deen. By Allah! In my life no one had ever humiliated me like this slave.”
Hadhrat Ataa’ (rahmatullah alayh) was an emancipated slave.
Ilm and Taqwa had elevated him to the lofty pedestal he occupied.
6 thoughts on “The Lofty Pedestal Of Knowledge”
Comments are closed.