a piece of the moon, out of joy at Allah’s favor in accepting the repentance of those three. For there is no doubt that the Prophet, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, was the most compassionate toward his Ummah and his Companions, and the keenest of them for their good. This incident was among those concerning which Quran was revealed and remains recited until the Day of Resurrection. Consider how a trial is followed by a blessing! Every trial from Allah—if you bear it patiently—then rejoice in the blessing that will follow it.

After this, Allah, Exalted is He, said:

“O you who believe, fear Allah and be with the truthful.” [al-Tawbah 9:119]

Thus, He made them an example to others in truthfulness. When Allah accepted their repentance, Ka‘b said, “O Messenger of Allah, as part of my repentance, I shall divest myself of my wealth as charity.” He replied, “Keep some of your wealth, for that is better for you.” Agreed upon (1). Abu Dawud (2) also reports that “a third will suffice for him.” The Prophet, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, described one third as much, saying to Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqas, may Allah be pleased with him: “One third—and one third is much.” (3)

Likewise, Abu Lubabah ibn al-Mundhir, may Allah be pleased with him, said, “As part of my repentance, I shall divest myself of my wealth as charity for Allah and His Messenger, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him.” The Prophet, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him, said to him, “One third of it will suffice you.” (4) The story of Abu Lubabah was mentioned by