Question

What is the reference for this narration?

Bakr ibn ‘Abdullah reported that the Companions of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, used to throw melons at one another. He said, “If these were real, they would be men.”

Answer

The translation in your question is inaccurate.

Imam Bukhari (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration in Al Adabul Mufrad. The correct translation is as follows:

Bakr ibn ‘Abdillah (rahimahullah) said: “The Companions of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would [playfully] throw melons at each other, but when serious matters arose, they were true men.”

(Al Adabul Mufrad: 266)

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And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.

Answered by: Mawlana Suhail Motala

Approved by: Mawlana Muhammad Abasoomar

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التخريج من المصادر العربية

الأدب المفرد:
(٢٦٦) – حدثنا صدقة قال: أخبرنا معتمر، عن حبيب أبي محمد، عن بكر بن عبد الله قال: كان أصحاب النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يتبادحون بالبطيخ، فإذا كانت الحقائق كانوا هم الرجال.