What is the proof that whoever reported the Companions' dyeing their hair black either erred and mistook their deep red dye for black, or that the Companion had not received the prohibition, especially given that a number of Companions and Tabi'in dyed their hair black?

Scholars have differed on the ruling of dyeing hair black, but the preponderant opinion is that it is forbidden, due to the generality of the evidence narrated concerning it. Among these is the hadith (definition) of Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said regarding Abu Quhafah's head: "Change this, but avoid black." And the hadith of Ibn Abbas, raised [to the Prophet]: "There will be people in the آخر الزمان (end of times) who will dye [their hair] black like the crops of pigeons; they will not smell the scent of Paradise." The basic principle concerning a prohibition is that it indicates unlawfulness unless there is a disassociating factor. There is no difference in the prohibition of dyeing hair black between men and women. What has been narrated from some Companions to the contrary is to be understood as the hadith not having reached them, or due to other excuses, and it is not considered a disassociating factor from the established Sunnah (definition).