I thereafter gave preference to my father’s wish and greatly reduced my studies. On account of my absence, Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) asked regarding me, prompting me to once again frequent his gathering. On the first day that I attended his gathering after the period of my absence, Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) asked me, “What prevented you from coming to us?” I replied, “The occupation of earning a living and obeying my father.” Having said this, I joined the gathering.

When the gathering had terminated and all the students had departed, Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) handed a small bag to me and said, “Use this to your benefit.” When I opened the bag and looked within, I found that it contained one hundred dirhams. Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) then said, “Remain attached to the gathering of Deen, and when this money is depleted then inform me.”

I therefore attached myself to the gathering of Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah). After a short period had passed, he handed me another bag containing one hundred dirhams. Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) thereafter continued to see to my needs, and I never had to inform him of any need that I had nor of anything depleting, as it was as if he would somehow perceive that the wealth was depleted (and would thus give me more wealth without me needing to ask for it). Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) continued to see to my needs in this manner until I became independent and wealthy.

(Taareekh Baghdaad vol. 16 pg. 361, Safahaat min Sabril ‘Ulamaa pg. 169)