The Last Companion to Pass Away
The distinguished companion, Abu al-Tufail Amir bin Wathila al-Laythi al-Kanani (may Allah be pleased with him), is recognized as the final companion to have died. His passing occurred in the year 102 AH, with some sources stating it was in 110 AH. He is noted as the last individual to have witnessed the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during his lifetime. Originating from Mecca, he later moved to Kufa before ultimately returning to Mecca, where he passed away. Notably, his birth coincided with the Battle of Uhud, and he survived for eight years after the Prophet’s demise.
Abu al-Tufail Amir bin Wathila
According to Abu al-Tufail, he was just a young boy when he first encountered the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Mecca, observing him as he performed Tawaf around the Kaaba. He also notably aligned himself with Ali ibn Abi Talib during the confrontations with Muawiya ibn Abi Sufyan (may Allah be pleased with them both), participating in all the notable conflicts between them. Reports indicate that when asked by Muawiya about his affection for Ali, Abu al-Tufail responded that his love for Ali was akin to the love of the mother of Moses for her son. Furthermore, he narrated instances regarding the Prophet’s acts of touching the Black Stone and shared his accounts from other companions, including Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, Umar ibn al-Khattab, Ali ibn Abi Talib, Muadh ibn Jabal, and Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with them all).
The Significance of the Companions
The companions (may Allah be pleased with them) hold a significant position among all Muslims, particularly within the Sunni community. They are esteemed above all humanity following the Prophets of Allah, as the love for them is inherently linked to the love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The companions possess a distinguished status, credited with numerous merits for various reasons, including:
- They serve as the crucial link between the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his nation, transmitting the Islamic law to subsequent generations.
- Their efforts were instrumental in spreading Islam across various regions, alongside promoting virtues and moral excellence.
- The companions are regarded as the best of generations and companions across all peoples.
- The major Islamic conquests were achievable through their dedication and valor.