Question

Is this Hadith authentic, and what is the source?

“Abu Bakr and ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) are the leaders of the middle aged men of Jannah except for the Messengers and Prophets”

Answer

Authenticity

Imam Tirmidhi (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration on the authority of Sayyiduna Anas (radiyallahu ‘anhu) and has graded it sound (hasan). He has also recorded the Hadith on the authority of Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu ‘anhu).

(Sunan Tirmidhi, Hadith: 3664, 3665, 3666)

Explanation

Since all the inhabitants of Jannah will be of equal age, the Hadith commentators explain that the Arabic word “kuhul” in this Hadith refers to those who in this world passed away between the age of 30 and 51. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr and Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) will be the leaders of this group of people.

‘Allamah Munawi (rahimahullah) has preferred the following explanation:

The Arabic word “kuhul” actually refers to”the leaders/chieftains/those in charge”. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr and Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) will be the leaders of this elite group of people.

(Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 68, Mirqatul Mafatih, Hadith: 6059)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar