The Light-Hearted Companion of the Prophet(SAW)

Compassion in Action: Embracing Unique Natures

Reading time: 2 minutes

The believers are but one brotherhood, so make peace between your brothers. And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you

And be mindful of Allah so you may be shown mercy. And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you

And your Lord says, 'Call upon Me; I will respond to you

Nuayman ibn Amr(RA) was a companion of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He was known for his light-hearted personality and practical jokes, always making the Prophet(SAW) laugh and smile.

Despite his occasional misconduct and issues with alcohol addiction, he was a companion of deep taqwa and was involved in major battles like Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq.

The Prophet(SAW) always treated him with understanding and compassion.

Nuayman’s(RA) mischievous nature often led to humorous incidents.

One such occasion involved the Prophet (SAW) finding Nuayman(RA) hiding in a ditch.

Nuayman(RA) had slaughtered a camel belonging to a visitor at the mosque to feed the companions after being asked to negotiate for it.

When the visitor discovered the loss, he complained, and the Prophet(SAW) sought out the culprit.

Following the footprints, he found Nuayman(RA) covered in dirt and hiding under palm branches.

The Prophet(SAW) chuckled, dusted him off, and paid for the camel, showing his ability to balance justice with compassion.

Another notable incident occurred during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan(RA).

Nuayman(RA) played a prank on Makhramah(RA), a blind and elderly man.

Makhramah(RA), related to Nuayman’s(RA) wife, was weak and nearly senile.

One day, in a confused state, he attempted to urinate in the mosque, but his companions prevented him.

Nuayman(RA) offered to guide him to a proper place but sat him down again within the mosque. When Makhramah(RA) realized he was still in the mosque, he became upset and cursed Nuayman(RA).

Makhramah(RA) vowed to beat Nuayman(RA) with his stick when he found him.

Later, Nuayman(RA) saw Uthman(RA) praying in the mosque and devised a plan.

He approached Makhramah(RA), altered his voice, and offered to take him to “Nuayman”.

Leading Makhramah(RA) to Uthman(RA) instead, he said, “Here he is!”

Makhramah(RA), being misled, struck Uthman(RA) in the head with his stick, causing the Caliph to bleed. The companions quickly intervened and explained the situation to Makhramah(RA).

Despite the incident, Uthman(RA) laughed and forgave Nuayman, demonstrating the patience and understanding of The Prophet(SAW).

Nuayman(RA) lived a long time, up until the time of Muawiyah(RA) when the discord in the Ummah filled him with deep grief.

He lost his light-hearted nature and smiled much less, instead retreating away to spend the rest of his days isolated in the worship of Allah.

These stories show us the Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) acceptance of all people as they were and his ability to work with them compassionately.

He valued the hearts and intentions of his companions, understanding that everyone is unique and needs to be approached differently.

Nuayman’s(RA) life reminds us that while people may have different ways of expressing themselves, what truly matters is the sincerity of their hearts.

The Prophet’s (SAW) example teaches us to be understanding and compassionate, recognizing the unique qualities in others and valuing their inner goodness.

The Sahaba(RA) continued this legacy of treating people well regardless of their shortcomings or unique natures, embodying Islam's inclusive and merciful spirit.

This compassionate attitude significantly contributed to the spread of Islam across the world, reaching and resonating with many different cultures and places.

Reflection:

How can we support and uplift those struggling with personal shortcomings, like the Prophet (SAW) supported Nuayman?

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Du’a of the Day

In this section, we will share one du’a that can be used in your daily devotions and share its meaning.

اللَّهُمَّ بِاسْـمِكَ أَمُوتُ وَأَحْيَا

Transliteration: 

Alahumma bismika amootu wa-ahya.

English Translation

This is the Dua before bed

‘O Allah, with Your Name will I die and live.’

Reciting Surah Al-Mulk (Chapter 67 of the Quran) before sleep is recommended.

Additionally, reciting the last three Surahs of the Quran, known as the Quls (Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas) and Ayat Al-Kursi (Verse 255 of Surah Al-Baqarah) is encouraged.

These Ayahs provide protection and blessings.

 

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Day 224

🇪🇸 Spain will refuse all ships carrying weapons to Israel to dock at Spanish ports after denying 1st ship yesterday

• 31 Palestinians killed, 56 Palestinians injured in Gaza in last 24 hours

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🇹🇷 Israel to abolish free trade agreement w/ Turkey & impose 100% tariff on imports in response to Turkey banning exports

• West Bank: Israel bombs Jenin, killing commander of Jenin Brigades (local resistance group), injuring 2 others. IOF killed 1 Palestinian in Tulkarem

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