Question

Is this Hadith authentic?

When the Angel of Death came to Nabi Ibrahim (‘alayhis salam), he said to him, “Allah has commanded me to take your soul!’ Ibrahim (‘alayhis salam) responded, ‘What kind of friend takes the soul of his friend?’ At that moment, Allah revealed to Ibrahim (‘alayhis salam) ‘And what kind of friend hates to meet his friend?’”

Answer

Imam Abu Nu’aym (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration as the statement of Dukayn Al Fazari (rahimahullah).

‘Allamah Subki and ‘Allamah ‘Iraqi (rahimahumallah) have not found any basis for this narration (As a Hadith of Nabi -sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam-). ‘Allamah Zabidi (rahimahullah) states that this seems to be sourced from Israiliyyat (Historical sources).

(Hilyatul Awliya, vol. 10, pg. 9, Tabaqatush Shafi’iyyah, vol. 6, pg. 375, Al Mughni ‘An Hamlil Asfar, Hadith: 4146, Ithafus Sadah Al Muttaqin, vol. 9, pg. 549. Also see At Tadhkirah Fi Ahwalil Mawta, vol. 1, pg. 21, and Fathul Bari, under Hadith: 6509, vol. 11, pg. 361)

And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

Checked by: Mawlana Haroon Abasoomar