They Are Not in Need of Your Presents

Abdullah Ibn Masud had been one of the close companions of the Holy Prophet (SAW) and had developed into being a distinguished and zealous personality of Islam. During the caliphate of Hazrat Uthman, he suffered a bout of illness, which eventually resulted in his death.

Hazrat Uthman once came to pay him a visit and finding him distressed, asked, what distresses you so greatly? My sins, he answered.

Tell me your wish so that I can fulfill it for you.

I desire God’s mercy, replied Ibn Masud.

The caliph asked, if you permit, I could call for the doctor.

It is the Doctor who has made me sick, replied Ibn Masud.

If you want, I could present you with gifts from the Public Treasury.

Ibn Masud retorted, at the time when I was in need, you did not give me a thing and now that I am not in need, you wish to shower me with presents!

Hazrat Uthman insisted, Let these gifts be for your daughters then.

They are not in need of your presents, Ibn Masud replied tersely. I have instructed them to recite the chapter Al-Waaqiah every night, for sure, I have heard the Holy Prophet (SAW) say: One, who recites the chapter Al-Waaqiah every night, shall never be afflicted by poverty.