A Lesson in Trust and Integrity

Zayd ibn Sun'ah a well known Jewish scholar of the city of Medina at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.S.) was known throughout the community for his knowledge, honesty and strong sense of justice. Zayd was a man who ranked the truth high in priorities as he was very fair. Many people put their trust in him.

At the time, the Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.S) was not renowned simply for his teachings and kindness but rather, his honesty and trustworthiness. His word was like a promise made in gold which made people trust him so much. The trust was about to be tested like never before which will stay with everyone for long.

A day came when the Prophet (S.A.W.S.) came to Zaid ibn Su’nah and asked him for a loan. The money was required to help people in Madinah – those who were poor, needy or in urgent difficulty. Zaid agreed to lend the amount to the Prophet, trusting the latter’s word because he was a man of honesty. He was sure the debt will be repaid on the date that was agreed.

As the deadline of the loan was approaching, Zaid ibn Su’nah became worried. A few days prior to the time of his death, he saw the Prophet S.A.W.S. walking along with his close companions Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and many others at a funeral prayer in the city. Zaid trailed behind the group so that he would be able to address the Prophet.

Following the prayer at the funeral, Zaid ibn Su’nan rushed to the Prophet (S.A.W.S.) and met him. Urgency and a trace of anger were in his face. He grabbed the Prophet by the shirt and cloak very softly and firmly. The audience stood in silence trying to figure out what is going on. In a tense voice, Zaid told him, Messenger of Allah, the loan I loaned to you--when will you pay it back, and so on.

Zaid looked at the Prophet (S.A.W.S.) calmly. He did not show any trace of fear, anger, or irritation. On the contrary, he talked patiently and clearly. Zaid ibn Su, he said, I will pay it on the day agreed upon. Be patient for a few more days.”

Zaid took note and paid close attention to the intensity of the sincerity in the eyes of the Prophet. He knew that it was not a man who kept no promises or exploited others. Zaid was initially concerned but the honesty of the Prophet left him with no concerns. This minor episode made an indelible impression on the Jew scholar. He observed himself the unparalleled integrity of the Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.S.).

Such stories were propagated in Madinah. It astonished people how the Prophet (S.A.W.S.) managed to deal with even the mundane issues with an extraordinary level of honesty. People were not only inspired by his spiritual teachings, but also by his daily actions and behavior such as his word, his promises, his respect to the right of others.

Later on, Zaid ibn Su’nah confirmed the reality of the character of Prophet by claiming that he had never seen any other person as reliable and honorable as Muhammad (S.A.W.S.). Even the most skeptical had finally started to discern the light of his integrity. They also got to know that honesty was not only a preaching principle, but a lifestyle that characterised all the actions of the Prophet.

The tale of the loan between Zaid ibn Su onah and the Prophet (S.A.W.S.) provides the reminiscence that the real greatness is found in honesty, patience and promise keeping. A person of integrity does not neglect his or her commitments even in the face of challenges or responsibilities; he or she will have the trust and the respect of all the people surrounding him/her.

This is something that we can learn in our own lives. Respect and friendship must be based on honesty and trustworthiness whether it is in small issues or in major tasks. The Prophet (S.A.W.S.) had no need to demonstrate himself with money or power; his personality was the only thing that earned him admiration and respect of the whole world.

And thus, Zaid ibn Su’nah, being a scholar of standing himself, was taught the eternal truth that truth, patience and integrity are more powerful than any fear or suspicion, and that we can never put our trust in good men in vain.