Explanation

This great Hadīth addresses important themes and facts. The Prophet says that Allah brought the corners of the earth together for him, so he could see the kingdom of his Ummah from east to west. This is a true historical fact; Muslims did expand from the Far West to the Far East. The Prophet also said that he was given two treasures. This too is a true historical fact, because Muslims conquered the land of Persia and Rome and obtained their gold and silver. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) asked Allah, the Almighty, not to destroy Muslims by a common drought nor to afflict them with an enemy from the unbelievers who would control their lands and eradicate their populations. Allah fulfilled the first and second requests, on condition that the Muslims avoid internal disputes. If they diverge and fight among themselves, an enemy from the disbelievers will take control over them. This actually happened when the Muslims divided. The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) feared that Muslims would be inflicted with misguiding leaders and scholars, who would lead people astray and further said that if a civil war erupts between Muslims, it will persist until the Day of Resurrection. This has indeed taken place. A civil war started when ‘Uthmān was killed, and it is still going on. The Prophet also said that some Muslims will join the lands and religions of the polytheists, and that groups of Muslims will leave the fold of Islam. This happened when some Muslims worshiped tombs, trees, and stones. In addition, the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) spoke of pseudo-prophets who will emerge, even though prophecy ended with him. He finally gave glad tidings of a group of Muslims who will uphold Islam, despite these crises and tribulations. This group despite being a minority, will not be frustrated by the schemes of its enemies and opponents.