The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, “I order you (to follow) my Companions.” (Sunan Tirmidhi 2165)
This one hadith should be enough reason for Muslims to make Sahaba our role models.
But why did our Prophet command us that?
He ﷺ also mentioned their superiority, saying, “The best people are those of my generation, then those who come after them, then those who come after them.” (Sahih Bukhari 6429; Sahih Muslim 2533).
>Who Were the Sahaba?
The Sahaba were the companions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The people who lived during his time and met him. Those who believed in his message and supported him in his cause. They were ordinary people from different backgrounds.
There were more than 100,000 of them. They are divided into two major groups:
- Muhajirun: Those who migrated from Makkah to Madinah
- Ansar: People of Madinah who welcomed and helped the Muhajirun
Which Qualities Made Them Role Models?
When it came to faith, sacrifice, character, or loyalty, Sahaba excelled in them. They left their homes, wealth, and families for Islam.
The Prophet ﷺ said, “Do not insult my companions. If one of you were to spend the likes of Mount Uhud in gold, it would not reach a small portion of theirs or even half of that.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3673, Sahih Muslim 2540)
Their love for the Prophet guided them to God-consciousness and good deeds. They learned directly from him and made their lives a perfect example for us according to the Quran and Sunnah.
Prominent Sahaba and Their Qualities as Role Models
This list mentions only some of the most well-known Sahaba, but there were thousands of companions who were all outstanding in their faith and dedication. Many others are equally worthy of mention and admiration.
Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (RA) was known for truthfulness, generosity, and unwavering support to the Prophet ﷺ during hard times.
Umar ibn al Khattab (RA) was known for his strength, faith, and strict justice.
Uthman ibn Affan (RA) was extremely modest, gentle, and generous.
Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA) was known for his wisdom, knowledge, and bravery in battles.
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA) was very loyal as a wife to the Prophet ﷺ. She supported him emotionally and financially.
Bilal ibn Rabah (RA) endured extreme torture for his faith. He remained patient and steadfast.
Khalid ibn al-Walid (RA) was known for his strategic bravery in battles.
Aisha bint Abi Bakr (RA) was known for her devotion to knowledge and for being a female scholar.
Fatima az-Zahra (RA) was known for her purity and devotion.
Salman al-Farsi (RA) was known for his sincere search for truth and wisdom.
Lessons for Today's Muslims
There are many lessons in the lives of Sahaba for us. They gave us the lessons of unity, seeking knowledge, patience, hope, and much more. Perhaps, in this era, it is more important for us to follow their footsteps than ever before.
Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA) said, “Verily, we were a disgraceful people, and Allah honored us with Islam. If we seek honor from anything besides that with which Allah honored us, Allah will disgrace us.” (Al-Mustadrak ala al-Ṣaḥiḥayn 207)
They were very different from Muslims today and the only way we can at least try to be like them is by learning about their lives and implementing their teachings in our lives.
May Allah be pleased with every one of them and grant us the ability to follow their path and grant us their company in Jannah.