What is Al-Kawthar? Is it exclusive to the Prophet (peace be upon him)?

In the Arabic language, "Al-Kawthar" signifies an abundance of something. In Islamic terminology, it carries two meanings:

1. A River in Paradise: Allah bestowed it upon Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, as stated in the verse: (Indeed, We have granted you, [O Muhammad], Al-Kawthar). This river has banks of gold, its course is over pearls and rubies, it is whiter than milk and sweeter than honey, and its soil is of fragrant musk.

2. A Great Basin on the Day of Judgment: It is called "Hawd Al-Kawthar" (the Basin of Al-Kawthar). Muslims will come to it, and its water will flow from the River Al-Kawthar in Paradise through two spouts. Its description is that it spans a month's journey, its water is whiter than milk and more pleasant than musk, and its drinking cups are as numerous as the stars in the sky. Whoever drinks from it will never thirst again.

Exclusivity of Al-Kawthar: The River Al-Kawthar is exclusive to the Prophet, peace be upon him. As for the Basin of Al-Kawthar, scholars have differed regarding its exclusivity, but the most preponderant view is that it is also exclusive to him.

Location of the Basin: Scholars have differed regarding its location, but the most preponderant view is that it is before the Sirat (Bridge over Hell).

Those Who Will Be Driven Away from the Basin: Not everyone who claims to belong to the Ummah of Muhammad, peace be upon him, will drink from the Basin. Some people will be driven away from it because they altered and changed the religion after the Prophet, peace be upon him. These include the people of innovation (Bid'ah), the Khawarij, the Rawafid (a derogatory term for some Shia groups), the oppressors, and those who openly commit major sins. As for those who will drink, they are the people of ablution, whom the Prophet will recognize by the brightness of their faces and extremities.