English translation
2350. Narrated Abū Hurairah رضي الله عنه: The people say that Abū Hurairah narrates too many narrations. In fact Allāh knows whether I say the truth or not. They also say: "Why do the emigrants and the Anṣār not narrate as he does?" In fact, my emigrant brethren were busy trading in the markets, and my Anṣār brethren were busy with their properties. I was a poor man keeping the company of Allāh's Messenger ﷺ and was satisfied with what filled my stomach. So, I used to be present while they (i.e., the emigrants and the Anṣār) were absent, and I used to remember while they forgot (the Hadīth). One day the Prophet ﷺ said, "Whoever spreads his sheet till I finish this statement of mine and then gathers it over his chest, will never forget anything of my statement." So, I spread my covering sheet which was the only garment I had, till the Prophet ﷺ finished his statement and then I gathered it over my chest. By Him Who had sent him (i.e., Allāh's Messenger ﷺ) with the truth, since then I did not forget even a single word of that statement of his, till this day of mine. By Allāh, but for two Verses in Allāh's Book, I would never have related any narration (from the Prophet ﷺ).” (These two Verses are): “Verily, those who conceal the clear proofs, evidences and the guidance, which we have sent down... (up to)... the Most Merciful.” (V.2:159, 160)