The Heavenly Dispute by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali

It is an important commentary on the noble hadith of the Prophet (ﷺ) that was recorded in the collection of Sunan Tirmidhi relating the dispute among the chief angels of the Highest Heaven. The dispute arose about deeds that expiate sin and raise a person’s rank in the Hereafter.. The Prophet (ﷺ) said of this hadith, “Indeed, it is the truth, so study and learn it” . Therefore, it is necessary for every Muslim to take extra keen interest in learning its lessons, understanding its values and applying its highly prized recommendations.

The esteemed author beautifully explains the hadith in detail and highlights the importance of enacting righteous deeds by which Allah wipes out with them, sins and wrongdoings, while elevating a person to higher degrees on the Day of Judgment. The hadith also comprises great supplications that the Prophet (ﷺ) was given in the lofty encounter with his lord; all of which occurred when he all of a sudden felt drowsy until asleep overtook him during the night prayer.

He additionally discuses concepts of dreams and miracles, the excellence of ablution and performing it well, performing prayer in congregation, the night prayer, walking to the Masjid, feeding the poor and one’s neighbors, right etiquette in speaking, having humility and contentment, enjoining the love of Allah and increasing it for purpose of drawing closer to Him.