Given a Flute of the Voices of Dawud

Abu Musa al-Ash'ari أَبُو مُوسَى الْأَشْعَرِيّ

A Yemeni who emigrated to Islam, beloved for a voice so beautiful in reciting the Qur'an that the Prophet ﷺ said he was given a portion of the melodious voice of the family of Dawud. A wise judge, teacher, and governor, and the conqueror of much of Persia.

From Yemen to the Faith

Abu Musa came from the Ash'ari people of Yemen, embracing Islam and emigrating; some accounts place him among those who reached the Prophet ﷺ around the time of Khaybar. The Prophet ﷺ welcomed his people warmly, praising the Ash'aris for their generosity and faith.

A Voice Like Dawud's

His recitation was so moving that the Prophet ﷺ told him, 'You have been given a flute (mizmar) from the flutes of the family of Dawud.' He would recite at night, drawing listeners to the beauty of the Qur'an on his tongue.

Governor and Conqueror

Umar appointed him governor of Basra and later Kufa, and under his command the Muslims conquered large parts of Persia, including Isfahan and Ahvaz. He was famed for justice; Umar's letter to him on the principles of judgeship became a classic of Islamic legal ethics.

Teacher and Reconciler

Abu Musa taught the Qur'an and fiqh and was chosen as an arbitrator in the dispute between Ali and Mu'awiyah, striving — even amid the fitnah — to reconcile the Muslims. He died around 44 AH, remembered for knowledge, justice, and the beauty of his worship.

Lessons

  • A beautiful recitation is a gift to be used in worship of Allah.
  • Justice in judgement is the heart of righteous authority.
  • Knowledge and good governance are two fruits of one faith.

Quran references

73:4