768 - Ubayd Allah ibn Hanbal ibn Ishaq ibn Hanbal informed me, saying: My father narrated to me, saying: I heard Abu Abd Allah [Ahmad ibn Hanbal] saying: 'Exaggeration concerning the companions of Muhammad is [like] exaggeration in mentioning the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, for the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: "[Fear] Allah, [fear] Allah regarding my companions; do not make them a target [for criticism or hostility]."'