at ʿArafah; I heard his movements, and he said, “Do you realize that I too have embraced Islam?”

He added: When he heard the people raising their voices, he said, “Keep a dignified demeanor, for virtue is not found in the loudest voice.” (1)

Sulaiman ibn al-Mughīrah relates—through Humayd ibn Hilal—that Abu Rifaʿah al-ʿAdawi used to say, “Surat al-Baqarah has never slipped from my memory since the Messenger of Allah ﷺ taught it to me; along with it I learned what I learned of the Quran, and my back has never ached from standing in night prayer—ever.” (2)

Abu Rifaʿah was known for his devotion and long night vigils.

Humayd ibn Hilal said: Abu Rifaʿah joined an expedition commanded by ʿAbd al-Rahman ibn Samurah. He spent the night beneath a fortress, praying throughout the night; then he rested his head on his shield and fell asleep. His companions mounted up and left him sleeping. The enemy spotted him, three rough men descended, and they slaughtered him—may Allah be pleased with him. (3)

Humayd added: Sila said, “I dreamed as though I saw Abu Rifaʿah on a swift she-camel, while I was on a slow, short-striding camel, following in his tracks. I interpreted this to mean that I am upon his path, striving in deeds after him with all my strength.” (4)

5 – Thawban al-Nabawi* (Muslim, 4)

A freedman of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ.

He had been taken captive in the Hijaz, and the Prophet ﷺ purchased him.