A Powerful Reminder from Hasan al-Basri (Born Just 10 Years After the Prophet’s Passing)

Take a moment before reading this statement from Hasan al-Basri (642 CE–728 CE / 21 AH–110 AH). He was born only 10 years after the Prophet ﷺ left this world, which makes him one of the Tabi’een-those who learned directly from the Sahaba. He lived around 86 years, may Allah have mercy on him. In that lifetime, he said something that really shakes you: “If a man who witnessed the early Salaf were resurrected today, he wouldn’t recognize anything of Islam”-and he touched his cheek, then added-“except for this call to prayer. By Allah, whoever lives in these strange times without having met the pious Salaf, witnessing the innovator pushing his bid’ah and the worldly person calling others to chase dunya, yet Allah shields him from that and makes him yearn for the righteous Salaf-asking about their way and walking in their footsteps-he will be rewarded immensely. Strive to be like that, in sha’ Allah.” [From *Al-Bida‘ wan-Nahy ‘anha* by Ibn Waddaah al-Qurtubi, written around 880–890 CE / 270–280 AH] Now we’re in 2026 CE / 1448 AH. Let Hasan al-Basri’s words really sink in: where do you stand in light of this sincere advice from one of the great Salaf? May Allah guide us all to the truth and forgive us on the Day of Regret, aameen allahumma aameen.