The Outset of Dissension in Islam — Page 37
37 with them because firstly, the term ‘wealth of Allah’ should not be used; secondly, the affluent should not accumulate wealth. ” Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra explained: “Ab u Dharr ra , it is my duty and mine alone to fulfil the responsibility that Allah the Exalted has laid upon me. It is also my obligation to enforce the subjects to discharge their responsibilities, to encourage them to serve religion and to be moderate. However, it is not my task to compel them to abandon the world. ” Hadrat Ab u Dharr ra submitted, “Then allow me to go somewhere else, because Madinah is no longer appropriate for me. ” Hadrat ‘ Uthm a n ra responded, “Will you abandon this abode and adopt one that is inferior to this?” He replied, “The Holy Prophet sa told me that when the population of Madinah extends as far as Sal‘, do not stay in Madinah. ” To this, Hadrat ‘Uthm a n, may Allah be pleased with him, responded, “Then carry out the instruction of the Holy Prophet sa. ” After giving him some camels and two slaves, Hadrat ‘Uthm a n ra bid him farewell, but stressed that he should not completely sever his ties with Madinah and continue visiting every so often. Ab u Dharr ra always acted upon this guidance. 35 This was the fourth conflict which arose. Although Hadrat Ab u Dharr ra was used as an instrument, the fact of the matter is that neither did he hold the same views as the rebels, nor was he aware of their mischief. Despite a difference of opinion, Hadrat Ab u Dharr ra never set out to take the law into his own hands. He continued to obey the government to such an extent that in 35. T a r i khu t-T abar i , vol. 5, pp. 112-113, Akhb a ru Ab i Dharrin ra. . . . . , Published by D a rul-Fikr, Beirut, 2002 edition