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Once, a person was verbally abusing Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) while the Prophet (peace be upon him) was curiously watching with a smile. After taking much abuse quietly, Abu Bakr responded to a few of his comments.
At this, the Prophet exhibited his disapproval, got up and left. Abu Bakr caught up with the Prophet and wondered, “O Messenger of Allah, he was abusing me and you remained sitting. When I responded to him, you disapproved and got up.”
The Messenger of Allah responded, “There was an angel with you responding to him. When you responded to him, Satan took his place.”
He then said: “O Abu Bakr, there are three solid truths: If a person is wronged and he forbears it (without seeking revenge) just for the sake of Allah almighty, Allah will honour him and give him the upper hand with His help; if a person opens a door of giving gifts for cementing relationships with relatives, Allah will give him abundance; and, if a person opens a door of seeking charity for himself to increase his wealth, Allah will further reduce his wealth.”
Reported from Abu Huraira in Mishkaah and Musnad Ahmad
