Ḥasan bin Sufyān?’ When I said it was me, the young man revealed, ‘Ṭūlūn, the governor of our city, has sent you food.’

I asked in surprise, ‘How does the governor know about us?’

The young man answered, ‘I am a servant. The governor called me this morning and said, “Go to such and such area, and go to this masjid. There are students of knowledge who have been hungry for three days and three nights. Give them food and money. Apologise to them on my behalf as I was unaware of their condition. I will visit them tomorrow and ask for forgiveness.”’

The young man continued, ‘I became curious after hearing his words. So, I asked, “O respected governor! What has caused you to show this kindness?” He replied, “I had a dream last night and saw someone riding a horse whilst holding a spear. He placed the spear in my side and said, ‘Get up now! Help Ḥasan bin Sufyān رَحْمَةُ الـلّٰـهِ عَلَيْه and his friends! They are travelling in order to gain knowledge and have been hungry for three days and nights. They are residing in such and such masjid of your city.’”

The governor said, “I asked the rider who he was. He replied, ‘I am an angel of Allah who was sent to inform you of the condition of the students of knowledge. Do not wait! Help them immediately!’ After saying this, the horse and rider disappeared from my view.”’”^[1]

سُبْحٰنَ اللہ! Dear Islamic brothers! You heard how the student of knowledge receives help from the unseen. So do not become worried due to poverty and a lack of material wealth! Be determined and busy yourself in seeking knowledge. ان شآء اللہ You will be helped by Allah.