Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as saying, “There were two men among the B. Israil who loved one another, 'one of whom engaged ardently in worship while the other called himself a sinner. The former began to say, "Refrain from what you are doing," and the other would reply, “Let me alone with my Lord.” One day he found him committing a sin which he considered serious and said, “Refrain;" to which he replied, “Let me alone with my Lord. Were you sent to watch over me?” He then said, "I swear by God that God will never pardon you, nor will He bring you into paradise." God then sent to them an angel who took their spirits, and they came together into His presence To the sinner He said, “Enter paradise by my mercy;” and to the other He said, “Can you forbid my mercy to my servant?” He replied, “No, my Lord.” Then He said, “Take him away to hell.” Ahmad transmitted it.
Reported by Abu Dawud (No. 4901) and Ahmad (No. 7942, 8394). Cited in Mishkat al-Masabih (No. 2347).
