Ibn Umar narrates that the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Your example and the example of the people of the two Scriptures (i.e. Jews and Christians) is like the example of a man who employed some laborers and asked them, ‘Who will work for me from morning till midday for one Qirat?’ The Jews accepted (the offer) and carried out the work. He then asked, Who will work for me from midday up to the Asr prayer for one Qirat?’ The Christians accepted and fulfilled the work. He then said, ‘Who will work for me from the `Asr till sunset for two Qirats?’ You, Muslims have accepted the offer. The Jews and the Christians got angry and said, ‘Why should we work more and get lesser (on return)?’ (Allah) said, ‘Have I withheld part of your right?’ They replied in the negative. He said, ‘It is My Blessing, I bestow upon whomever I wish .’
(alBukhari)
The narration likens those who don’t submit fully to be like those who work hard partially, but sadly give up short of the finish line.
The one who gives up before the finish line will receive their rewards in the life alone (one reward), whilst those who cross the finish line will get a double reward- the reward in this life, and the reward in the next!
NB. Qirat in the hadeeth refers to a huge reward.
Sheikh Dr. Sajid Umar
