10 – This ḥadith points to the excellence of those first three favored generations who trod the path of their Prophet and followed faithfully in his footsteps; they were therefore the best community ever raised for mankind. When the fourth generation arrived, disagreements over doctrines appeared, deviant schools proliferated, speculative theological opinions spread, and innovations emerged. The clear landmarks of sound creed began to shift and its radiant features were gradually effaced.

11 – The ḥadith further teaches that true merit is not measured by the outward cultivation, glitter, and adornment of worldly life. Rather, virtue abides wherever trustworthiness is found, covenants, contracts, and vows are honored, and the Hereafter remains the Muslim’s paramount concern. The believer does not devote his effort and energy to attaining luxury through fine food, clothing, conveyances, or dwellings; choosing the life of this world over the Hereafter is sheer loss. Allah, the Exalted, says: “But you prefer the worldly life, while the Hereafter is better and more enduring” (Qur’an 87:16–17).