Book of Testimony

Allah, Mighty and Majestic, says: “Thus We have made you a just community” [al-Baqarah: 143]—meaning, the best and most upright—“so that you may be witnesses over mankind, and the Messenger may be a witness over you” [al-Baqarah: 143].

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This testimony takes place both in this world and on the Day of Resurrection in the Hereafter, as the reports from the Prophet, peace be upon him, attest. Its occurrence in this world is illustrated by the following report: “A funeral procession passed by the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. The deceased was spoken well of, and praise followed upon praise. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, ‘It is assured.’ Another funeral procession passed by him. The deceased was spoken ill of, and condemnation followed upon condemnation. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, ‘It is assured. You are Allah’s witnesses on earth.’” Another narration adds: “Whoever you speak well of is assured Paradise, and whoever you speak ill of is assured the Fire.” It is also reported that he said: “If you wish to know a servant’s standing with his Lord, look at what follows him