Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm (Rahmatullah Alaih) was one of the most revered saints known for his humility, wisdom, and unwavering faith in Allah. His life is filled with stories of compassion, empathy, and miracles, inspiring generations to walk the path of righteousness and humility.
The Story of the City Leader and Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm’s Family’s Patience
He knocked on the door, and from inside, a voice asked, "Who is it?" The leader replied, "I am the leader of the city and have lost my way. I am extremely thirsty."
Patience and Faith of Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm’s Wife
Inside the house, Hazrat Hatim's wife heard his plea. She raised her head towards the sky and said, "O Master and Lord, You are Pure. Yesterday, we spent the night hungry, and today the city leader is at our door asking for water." This showed her immense patience and trust in Allah’s wisdom and plans.
She took a new cup, filled it with water, and asked the servant to present it to the city leader, apologizing for not being able to offer more. The leader drank the water gratefully and asked, "Whose house is this?"
People informed him that this was the house of Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm (Rahmatullah Alaih), a righteous servant of Allah known for his piety and humility. Touched by their generosity despite their own hardship, the city leader sent a generous gift as gratitude, changing their situation of poverty into one of wealth and abundance.
Miracle During the Hajj Journey
While this was happening at home, Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm was on his journey to Hajj. During the travel, the leader of the caravan fell seriously ill. In search of a cure, he called for a doctor, but none was available. People then suggested finding a pious man to pray for his recovery.
Someone informed him, "Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm (Rahmatullah Alaih) is present in the caravan." He was immediately called, and upon his arrival, he prayed for the caravan leader. Through his sincere supplication, the leader recovered miraculously. Grateful for this divine favor, the leader announced, "From now on, all the needs of Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm during this journey will be taken care of by me."
A Vision of Divine Blessing
That night, Hazrat Hatim was worried about his family, wondering how they were managing in his absence. In his sleep, he saw a vision in which he was told, "Whoever sets their affairs right with Us, We also set their matters right." This vision assured him that his family was under Allah’s protection and blessings.
Indeed, his wife was rewarded for her patience and trust in Allah. The blessing was not just in the form of wealth but also spiritual elevation and honor.
Why He Was Called "Al-Asamm" (The Deaf)
Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm’s title, "Al-Asamm", which means "the deaf", was not due to a physical impairment but due to his extraordinary character and empathy.
The Story Behind the Title "Asamm"
Once, a Muslim woman came to him seeking guidance on a religious matter. While she was talking, she accidentally passed gas and became extremely embarrassed. Sensing her discomfort and to protect her dignity, Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm immediately turned his face away and acted as if he did not hear anything. He gestured towards his ears and said, "Please speak louder; I am hard of hearing."
He continued to act as if he were deaf for the rest of his life to protect the dignity of that woman. Whenever he spoke to anyone, he would lean forward and ask them to speak louder, ensuring that no one would ever learn about the incident.
This incredible act of empathy earned him the title "Al-Asamm", and he became known as Hatim Al-Asamm (Hatim the Deaf). This story is a profound example of how he valued human dignity and compassion above all.
His Association with Hazrat Shaqeeq Balkhi (Rahmatullah Alaih)
Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm was a devoted disciple of Hazrat Shaqeeq Balkhi (Rahmatullah Alaih) and spent over 30 years in his company. One day, Hazrat Shaqeeq asked him, "You have spent 30 years with me. What did you learn?"
Hazrat Hatim responded, "I learned eight lessons, and I hope these will be the means of my salvation." These eight lessons were:
1. Friendship with the Eternal (Allah) Instead of the Mortal (Worldly Things)
He emphasized the importance of forming a relationship with Allah rather than getting attached to worldly possessions. He believed that everything in this world is temporary, and only the love of Allah is eternal.
2. Opposing the Desires of the Self (Nafs)
True spirituality involves resisting the temptations and desires of the Nafs (self). Controlling one's desires leads to spiritual elevation and closeness to Allah.
3. Ending the Greed for Worldly Possessions
He advocated for contentment and simplicity. Excessive desire for worldly possessions leads to misery and spiritual decline.
4. True Honor Lies in Piety (Taqwa)
Honor and respect were not determined by wealth or status but by piety (Taqwa). A person's real value is measured by their devotion and obedience to Allah.
5. Avoidance of Backbiting, Criticism, and Envy
He warned against backbiting, criticizing others, and harboring envy. He emphasized maintaining a pure heart free of malice and resentment.
6. Considering Satan as the Center of All Enmities
Satan is the root of all enmities and conflicts. By recognizing this, a person can avoid unnecessary disputes and maintain harmony.
7. Eliminating Greed and Avarice
He stressed the importance of eliminating greed and avarice from one's life, leading to peace and spiritual growth.
8. Complete Trust in Allah (Tawakkul)
Having unwavering trust in Allah is the cornerstone of his teachings. Trusting Allah brings peace and satisfaction.
Wisdom from Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm
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His disciples were surprised as Hatim was known to be deaf but could hear the buzzing of the fly. They asked, "Why do you call yourself Asamm (Deaf)?" He replied, "It is better to be deaf to evil talk. My ears are perfectly fine, but I chose to be Asamm to save someone from shame."
This teaches us to avoid listening to gossip and slander, and to protect the dignity and respect of others.
The Legacy of Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm (Rahmatullah Alaih)
Hazrat Hatim Al-Asamm (Rahmatullah Alaih) is remembered as a saint of unparalleled compassion, humility, and wisdom. His legacy continues to inspire countless people to lead lives of dignity, empathy, and unwavering faith in Allah. His title "Al-Asamm" symbolizes his extraordinary character and his commitment to protecting human dignity.
His life teaches us the value of humility, trust in Allah, and the importance of empathy. He demonstrated that true greatness lies in preserving others' dignity, protecting feelings, and practicing unwavering faith in Allah's wisdom.
May Allah bless his soul and grant us the ability to learn and implement his teachings in our lives. Ameen.
