FEW WOULD EXPECT that a man known to the authorities as a hardened criminal could play a role in strengthening one of Islam’s greatest scholars. Yet during one of the most difficult trials in Islamic history, this is exactly what occurred.
The era of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal (may Allah have mercy on him) was marked by severe turmoil. Core matters of Islamic belief were being challenged, and Muslims, particularly scholars, were being pressured to publicly accept doctrines that departed from what they held to be the truth.
This period became known as the Mihna, when the Abbasid state attempted to impose the belief that the Qur’an was created. The Khalifah at the time, al-Ma’mun, had adopted this position and sought to enforce it throughout the Muslim world. The scholars, as the natural moral and religious leaders of the ummah, were the first to be targeted.
One by one, they were summoned, debated, imprisoned, and in many cases tortured. Some scholars chose silence or legal concession under compulsion, while others openly refused. When al-Ma’mun died, his successor al-Mu‘tasim continued the policy with even greater severity.
Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal was eventually brought forward. The debates were intense, and when argument failed to move him, punishment followed. He was imprisoned, flogged repeatedly, and publicly humiliated, paraded through the marketplaces in chains like a common criminal.
During one such procession, as Imam Ahmad was being dragged through the town, a moment of inner struggle overtook him. He began to wonder whether conceding verbally might be excusable. After all, Allah judges what is in the heart, and words spoken under compulsion do not necessarily reflect belief.
At that moment of weakness, someone tugged at his clothing.
Imam Ahmad turned to see a young man standing behind him. The man said: “O Imam Ahmad, do you recognise me? I am Abul Haitham, the notorious criminal whose name appears repeatedly in the state’s records. I have been lashed eighteen thousand times on various occasions. I endured those lashes with patience, in obedience to Shaytan, and for the sake of this fleeting world. You should endure your lashes with patience, for you are in obedience to Allah and are being punished for the sake of Islam.”
With those words, the man let go. The guards pulled Imam Ahmad forward, and the two never met again.
Yet those brief words had a profound effect. They cleared the imam’s thoughts, reignited his resolve, and strengthened his heart. Imam Ahmad did not concede. He remained firm throughout the ordeal until, in time, the Mihna came to an end and the belief he had upheld prevailed.
Imam Ahmad never forgot Abul Haitham.
His son, ‘Abdullah ibn Ahmad, later narrated that for the rest of his life, Imam Ahmad would regularly supplicate for him, saying: “May Allah have mercy on Abul Haitham. May Allah forgive the sins of Abul Haitham.”
It is a remarkable story, one that carries enduring lessons.
First, it highlights the immense responsibility borne by scholars. Due to their position and influence, their firmness or compromise can shape the faith of entire communities. This is why ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) warned: “Islam will be demolished by the faults of scholars, the arguments of hypocrites over the Book, and the judgment of misguided leaders.” (al-Darimi)
Imam Ahmad could have chosen an easier path. Indeed, seeing his suffering, some scholars urged him to compromise. On one occasion, his student al-Maruzi came to him with reasonable justifications.
Imam Ahmad replied, “O Maruzi, step outside the prison and tell me what you see.”
Al-Maruzi stepped outside and found thousands of people waiting, holding papers and pens. When he asked what they were doing, they replied, “We are waiting for the answer of Ahmad ibn Hanbal.”
When al-Maruzi returned and relayed what he had seen, Imam Ahmad said, “O Maruzi, that I die is more beloved to me than that I betray those people.”
Second, the story teaches us never to dismiss someone based on their past or reputation. Benefit can come from unexpected places. A few sincere words, spoken at the right moment, can alter the course of history.
Third, it reminds us not to underestimate ourselves. Even the worst sinner may be used by Allah for great good. Influence in Islam is not confined to status, scholarship, or outward righteousness. Sometimes, Allah places wisdom on the tongue of one whom society has written off.
May Allah strengthen our scholars to stand firm upon the truth, and may He grant us the sincerity, courage, and wisdom to support the truth, no matter who we are or where we stand. Ameen
Living For Islam 