Musnad Ahmad Hadith 17755

Abdur Rahman bin Ghanm says that when the plague spread in Syria, Amr bin Al-As (may Allah be pleased with him) addressed the people and said: "This plague is a punishment, so disperse from this area and go into these ravines and valleys." When Shurahbil bin Hasana (may Allah be pleased with him) learned of this, he became angry and came dragging his clothes, holding his shoe in his hand, and said: "I have had the companionship of the Prophet (ﷺ). Amr is speaking more foolishly than the donkey of his own house. This (plague) has been the mercy of your Lord, the supplication of your Prophet, and the cause of death for the righteous people before you." (When Amr bin Al-As (may Allah be pleased with him) learned of this, he affirmed Shurahbil's (may Allah be pleased with him) statement.)