The Life of Muhammad

In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.
THE LIFE OF MUHAMMAD (PBUH)

This seerah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) serves as an introduction to the life of this great
man who was sent to the Earth to re-align mankind to the path of piety, justice and truth. This seerah hopes
to provide a brief over view of his life and mission as the last and final prophet of Allah (God Almighty).
1. THE LIFE OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD (PBUH)

Asslamu alaykum! Welcome to ‘the introduction to the life of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).’
There has never been a human being so well-respected, loved and followed as Muha...
2. PROPHET IBRAHIM (AS)
Every great story starts with a great person and surely one of the greatest of people was Prophet Ibrahim
(as). He was given the title Khalil-ullah, which means ‘the friend of Alla...
3. IBRAHIM (AS) AND THE STORY OF HAJJ
Ibrahim (as) had been married to Sarah for a while but they did not have any children. As time went on,
they prayed much to Allah to grant them some off spring. Sarah felt that she...
4. ABDUL MUTALLIB
After the time of Prophet Ibrahim (as) and Ismael, the people gradually began to worship and pray to Idols.
They began to believe in many gods, who they said were partners with All...
5. THE YEAR OF THE ELEPHANT
Abdul Mutallib had ten sons, the youngest of whom was Abdullah. From all his sons, Abdul Mutallib loved
Abdullah very much. When Abdullah was old enough to get married, he was marr...
6. THE BIRTH OF MUHAMMAD AND HIS EARLY LIFE
The Prophet Muhammad was born on Monday 12th Rabi-ul-awal (571AD) which is approx. 20/22 of April.
After he was born, Amina sent word to his grandfather, Abdul-Muttalib of the joyo...
7. MUHAMMAD AS A YOUTH AND THE TRADE JOURNEYS
Muhammad (pbuh) began to grow up in a steady family home with Abu Talib, his uncle. Muhammad
tended sheep as a youngster and later when he was about 12 years old, he accompanied Ab...
8. MARRIAGE AND THE REBUILDING OF THE KA'BAH
Khadija was a well-respected woman amongst the Makkans. She was from a noble lineage and was also
respected as a good merchant. She did not do the trade herself but hired others to...
9. PROPHETHOOD AND THE EARLY MUSLIMS
It was in the month of Ramadan when an incident took place, which would change the rest of Muhammad’s
life and the course of human history. The Prophet (pbuh) was forty years old a...
10. OPEN PREACHING OF ISLAM
The prophet (pbuh) only preached to a close group of friends and family. The ones who accepted Islam
became dedicated to Islam and began to learn, worship and study. They would hol...
11. OPPOSITION TO ISLAM
The Makkans were not happy, in fact they were maddened with rage and fury. They had in their midst a
kind and honest man who was preaching a simple message, which their own souls t...
12. PERSECUTION OF THE MUSLIMS
The Arabs had now fully realised that they could not beat Muhammad (pbuh). There was no way they could
withstand the power and eloquence of this message he brought. The message of ...
1 The Life of Muhammad (PBUH)

13. HIJRA TO ABYSSINIA (ETHIOPIA)
The Makkans were relentless in their persecution of the Muslims and in the persecution of our beloved
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They left no stone unturned in slanderin...
14. HAMZAH AND UMAR ACCEPT ISLAM
The Muslims had been made to suffer by the Makkans. The prophet (phuh) had made the decision to let
some of the Muslims make a Hijra to Abyssinia. These Muslims had suffered terrib...
15. NEGOTIATIONS
The Makkans had tried many times to conquer the Muslims and force them to reject Islam. The Makkans
wanted Islam to be eradicated from their society. In the past, the Makkans had b...
16. THE TERRIBLE BOYCOTT
The Makkans were very angry and concerned about the situation that had developed. Especially since
Hamzah and Umar had joined the ranks of the Muslims by accepting Islam. They were...
17. THE YEAR OF SADNESS
The Boycott had lasted for a long hard three years during which the Muslims had suffered immensely. Only
when this boycott ended, the Muslims breathed a sigh of relief. This had be...
18. FROM TAIF TO MAKKAH
The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had suffered some personal losses in the death of his beloved wife Khadija
and his loving Uncle, Abu Talib. After the passing of Abu Talib, the Makkans ...
19. THE NIGHT JOURNEY
The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was now in the eleventh year of his mission. He had strived through some
very difficult and testing times. In fact, this was a testing period for all th...
20. THE PLEDGES AT AQABAH
It was Hajj again in the twelfth year of Prophethood. The tribes were pouring in from all over Arabia to the
Holy House that was built by Prophet Ibrahim (as) many centuries earlie...
21. THE JOURNEY TO YATHRIB
The Makkans were never going to allow Muhammad (pbuh) to leave Makkah. In fact, in their meeting they
had planned an evil plot to murder Muhammad (pbuh). They selected one person f...
22. THE NEW SOCIETY IN MADINA
After a long and tiring Journey, Muhammad (pbuh) and his close companion Abu Bakr had safely arrived in
Quba. The Makkans had tried their best to prevent Muhammad (pbuh) from perfo...
23. THE BUILD UP TO BADR
The Makkans had been determined to finish off Islam from the earliest days. However, the Muslim
community had escaped their grasp by migrating to safety in Madina. In Madina, they ...
24. THE BATTLE AT BADR
The stage for a battle was set with two opposing groups, one on each side. Firstly, the well-equipped and
well-armed Makkan army with its superior weaponry and numbers was heading ...
25. PEACE RESTORED TO MADINA
The victorious Muslims were making the long return journey to Madina. News of the Muslim victory over
the mighty Makkan had already reached Madina and the people were looking forwa...
26. THE CHALLENGE AT UHUD
The decisive victory in Badr had shown all of Arabia that the Muslims were serious and dedicated to their
deen and their beloved prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It also demonstrated that ...

27. FROM VICTORY TO DEFEAT
The two armies faced each other across the battlefield at Uhud. The Makkan army was present in all its
glory and might - the superpower of the region. They had devised many strateg...
28. DOUBLE TRAGEDY
The Muslims of Madina had just finished a gruelling battle against the Makkans as they defended Madina
from their aggression. The Muslims suffered some losses and were forced to re...
29. BANI NADEER EXPULSIONS AND THE TRENCH
The cold-blooded massacre of two groups of Muslims was a horrific crime against Islam. They had been
invited by the tribes on a mission of education and peace but had been ambushed...
30. THE BATTLE OF THE TRENCHES
The two great armies faced each other across the battlefield. On one side were the Muslims of Madina who
were much smaller in number but were now fighting for; their very survival....
31. BEYOND KHANDAK
The Muslims had just managed to drive away one of the biggest armies they had ever faced. This army had
the sole intention of crushing the Muslims of Madina and ending the religion...

1. THE LIFE OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD (PBUH)
Asslamu alaykum! Welcome to ‘the introduction to the life of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).’
There has never been a human being so well-respected, loved and followed as Muhammad (pbuh), the final
messenger of Allah. There has never been a person who has changed world history so dramatically as
Muhammad (pbuh) and his message. The Prophet (pbuh) was the single most important person in the
history of the world.
The reason for Muhammad’s (pbuh) success was that he was sent with a pure message from Allah, the
creator of all mankind. This message would help us understand how to live our lives. It would tell us about
good and bad and about wrong and right. This message would tell us about mankind (about you and me),
the universe and the rest of creation around us. This message would tell us about Allah and about our
relationship with Allah. The message also told us about the Hereafter, the Day of Judgment, Heaven and
Hell.
The Qu'ran is this pure message that was revealed to Muhammad 1400 years ago. These are the words of
Allah that were sent to the prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Allah has guarded it and kept it pure from changes
and errors. The purpose or mission of the prophet (pbuh) was to deliver this message to Mankind and to
follow its teachings
There is no other message that has such an impact on mankind as the Qu’ran. There are no other revealed
books that have been kept pure from changes like the Qu’ran has. The Qu’ran has changed the lives of
billions of people in the world. It has helped them become better people and live according to the will of
Allah.
There were many prophets that came before prophet Muhammad (pbuh) - 124,000 we are told from
Hadith. The Qu’ran tells us that every nation was sent a prophet. The mission of the prophets was to tell
their people about Allah and invite them to live their lives according to Allah’s command. This helped them
be good and generous people who looked after and cared for each other. The good people would be
rewarded with heaven and the people that rebelled and refused the prophet would be punished with
hellfire.
When the prophet died, the people would forget part of the message and then add bits to the original
message. Eventually, the messages became completely different and the people went astray again. Allah
would send another messenger to guide them back to the right path.
This cycle of prophets coming and the people going astray continued for a long time. When Muhammad
(pbuh) came, the cycle was broken. The big difference was that the message of Muhammad (pbuh) was for
everyone and would never change. If the people went astray, they could turn back to the original message
(the Qu’ran) and be guided again. If they did not understand things they could look into the Sunnah which is
a practical guide of how the Qu'ran is followed.

Allah said that he would guard the message (the Holy Qu’ran) from any changes. We find that the Qu'ran
we have today is the same Qu'ran that was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) through Angel Jibrael. There is
not a word or letter difference between the original and today’s Qu’ran. If anyone goes on the wrong path
or gets mixed up, they can read the Qu’ran and receive guidance.
There are no more messengers to come after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). He was the seal of the prophets.
The prophet (pbuh) told us on his last sermon – ‘I have left nothing but two things – the Qu’ran and the
Sunnah – follow these and you will never go astray.’
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was born in Makkah to Amina and Abdullah. Abdullah passed away before
Muhammad (pbuh) was born and was brought up by Amina, his mother. When he was six, his mother
passed away and then he was looked after by his loving grandfather Abdul Mutallib. Two years later, Abdul
Mutallib also passed away and Muhammad (pbuh) was brought up by his uncle Abu Talib.
Muhammad (pbuh) lived a simple life, marrying Khadija when he was twenty five years old. At the age of
forty, the first verses came from Allah in the month of Ramadan. The Angel Jibrael brought these first five
verses to Muhammad (pbuh). These words were written down by the scribes and memorised by the
Muslims. This message continued for twenty three years and is known as the Qu'ran – the word of Allah.
The people originally refused to follow Muhammad (pbuh) and persecuted him. There were only a handful
of people who followed Muhammad (pbuh) and his teachings. The Prophet (pbuh) and his followers
suffered many hardships in Makkah. After thirteen years, they left Makkah and migrated to Yathrib
(Madina) where many people accepted Islam and the teachings spread very quickly.
2. PROPHET IBRAHIM (AS)

Every great story starts with a great person and surely one of the greatest of people was Prophet Ibrahim
(as). He was given the title Khalil-ullah, which means ‘the friend of Allah’. Ibrahim (as) was the forefather of
many great prophets and is held in high esteem by all the major revealed religions. These great prophets
include Suliman, Musa, Dawud, Yahya, Isa and Muhammad, Peace be upon them all. They are all from the
offspring of Ibrahim (as).
Ibrahim (as) lived in a time, long before the time of prophet Muhammad (pbuh). As a boy he used to watch
his father make idols. These Idols were sold in the markets as gods for people to worship. Ibrahim (as) could
not believe that anyone could consider these idols, made of stone and wood, to be their gods! How could
people pray to these idols and ask from them? How could they give these idols offering such as food? How
could these idols bring good fortune and look over them? Ibrahim (as) was confused.
Ibrahim (as) watched the idols as a fly came and sat on it. The idol was powerless to even move the fly from
its body so how could it have the power to do anything! Ibrahim (as) knew in his heart that the people of
his community were deeply misguided but he didn’t know any better himself.

Ibrahim (as) often thought about his people and their worship. He thought about the world around him and
how it came into being. He thought about how and why he was created. He thought about why he was
here, living on this wonderful planet. He would spend some time thinking about these things and admiring
the world around him.
One day he was admiring the beauty of the stars in the night sky. He thought to himself, I will worship these
stars as my god they are so beautiful and bright. Then the moon came out and again he admired the beauty
of the moon. The moon was shining brighter that the stars so he thought to himself, why don’t I make the
moon my god instead of the stars. In the morning the sun came out and the moon and stars could no longer
be seen. He thought to himself, why don’t I make the sun my god and worship the sun instead? It is
beautiful and much brighter than the moon and stars.
After much reflection he decided that he would not worship the stars, the moon or the sun but instead
would worship the maker of all these things. He decided there was one creator, his god, who created him
and everything around him. Through this Ibrahim (as) became guided to the right path.
One day the people of his community were out celebrating. Ibrahim (as) went to the place where the idols
were kept and broke them up, apart from the big one. He hung the axe around the neck of the big idol and
then went away. When the people returned they were shocked, “What happened to our Idols!” they
remarked. They discussed it for a while and thought that Ibrahim (as) would know because Ibrahim (as) was
known to speaking out against their idols.
They decided to call Ibrahim (as) and question him about the damage done to the idols. Ibrahim (as) was
brought before the community and they asked him who broke our idols. Ibrahim (as) replied, “The big idol
must have done this, he has the axe around the neck, why don’t you ask it?
The people grew angry; they knew that Ibrahim (as) was being silly. The big idol doesn’t have the power to
move so how can it break the other idols? The big idol doesn’t have the power to talk so how can it tell us
about the broken idols? Ibrahim (as) explained to them that if these idols are powerless and cant do
anything, then why do you pray to them? Why do you ask help from them when they cant even help
themselves! Deep down they knew that Ibrahim (as) was correct and that they indeed were wrong by
praying to these stone idols.
However, the people became very angry and decided to punish Ibrahim (as). They would punish him by
lighting a huge fire and throwing him into it. They thought this was a befitting punishment for some one
who disrespected their religion and broke their gods. They collected firewood from all over the county and
began to prepare the bonfire. They wanted to create such a fierce and hot fire, like no one had seen before.
They collected together all the material then lit it and made a huge fire. It became so hot that the birds
overhead could not fly over it because of the intense heat. The people themselves could not get near the
fire to throw Ibrahim (as) into it.

The Idol worshippers decided that they would build a catapult to throw Ibrahim (as) into the middle of the
fire, where he would burn in the fierce heat. Ibrahim (as) remained quiet and was confident that Allah
would save him. They loaded Ibrahim (as) into the catapult and pelted him into the fire. Allah commanded
the fire to remain cool for Ibrahim (as) and not to harm him with its flames and heat.
This was a test for Ibrahim (as) and he remained steadfast to his faith in Allah. Allah continued to guide
Ibrahim (as) throughout the rest of his life. After this incident, Ibrahim (as) moved away and got married to
a lady by the name of Sarah. They lived happily for a long time. However, there was some heartache in
Ibrahim (as) and Sarah’s life. They had been happily married for so long and Allah had not granted them any
children. They prayed to Allah so much asking for a child.
Sarah knew that her husband, Ibrahim (as), was longing for a child. She also knew that she was getting old
and may not be able to provide him with a child. She suggested to Ibrahim (as) that he should marry Hajar,
their slave girl, and maybe Allah would bless them with a child through her.
Ibrahim (as) accepted the advise of his beloved wife Sarah and married Hajar. It wasn’t long before Ibrahim
(as) and Hajar were blessed with a baby boy whom they named Ismael. Ibrahim (as) was overjoyed with
happiness at the birth of his first son. They all celebrated and thanked Allah for such a great and beautiful
blessing.
However, as they celebrated they did not know that things would change dramatically very soon. They
would change so much that Ibrahim (as) would need to make a tough choice about the future of his family.
What was this decision and how would it affect this innocent baby in the arms of his loving mother, Hajar….
next lesson inshallah.
3. IBRAHIM (AS) AND THE STORY OF HAJJ

Ibrahim (as) had been married to Sarah for a while but they did not have any children. As time went on,
they prayed much to Allah to grant them some off spring. Sarah felt that she was getting too old and may
not be able to bear children. She told Ibrahim (as) to take her slave girl, Hajar, as his wife and maybe Allah
would bless them with a child through her.
Hajar had a beautiful baby boy and they named him Ismael. However, after a short while, Sarah became
jealous of Hajar and Ismael. She told Ibrahim (as) to take the child and mother to a land far away from
them. Ibrahim (as) decided to take them to a place in Hijaz, which was a dry, mountainous and barren land.
Here Ibrahim (as) left Hajar and Ismael under the shade of a lofty tree, near the hills of Safa and Marwa.
This place had very little vegetation and had no water. Ibrahim (as) left some food with Hajar and a pouch
of water.
After some time both the food and water ran short and Ismael began to cry. Hajar was panicking, she ran

between the hills of Safah and Marwah looking for food or water but could not find anything. She ran
between the two hillocks seven times. After the frantic search, she returned and found a spring had
appeared where Ismael was kicking the sand with his feet. This spring, called ZamZam, was producing clean
water and Hajar and Ismael drank from it. The ZamZam spring is still with us today producing the same
sweet and pure water.
After a short time, people began to move to this valley. By the permission of Hajar, a few tribes settled and
it gradually became a small town. This town was near a busy trade route and many merchants began to
pass through bringing in wealth. This town grew to become the city of Makkah, which is still a busy city in
Arabia today.
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When Ismael was still a small boy, Ibrahim (as) had a dream or vision. In this dream he was commanded by
Allah to sacrifice his son. When a prophet has a dream it is always true. In fact, a prophet’s dream is actually
a form of revelation. This dream occurred several times and Ibrahim (as) decided that he would take his
beloved son, Ismael and would sacrifice him to Allah. as the Qu'ran narrates, Ismael agreed that Ibrahim
(as) should carry out the command of Allah.
The Qu'ran states: Then, when (the son) reached (the age of) (serious) work with him, he said: "O my son! I
have seen in a vision that I offer you in sacrifice: what is your view!" (The son) said: "O my father! Do as you
are commanded: you will find me, if Allah so wills, one practising patience and constancy!"
Both Ibrahim (as) and Ismael travelled to the place of sacrifice. However, on the way, the shaytan appeared
three times and tried to persuade Ibrahim (as) not to carry out the command of Allah. The shaytan tried to
deceive Ibrahim (as) by reminding him how much he loved his son. Ibrahim (as) was a prophet and he knew
that the love of Allah comes before the love of his son. Ibrahim (as) also knew that this was the command
of Allah so he must carry it out. Each time the Shaytan came to him, Ibrahim (as) threw stones at him and
continued with this journey.
Traditions tell us that Ibrahim (as) could not bear to look at his son so he blindfolded himself and carried
out the sacrifice. When Ibrahim (as) removed the blindfold, a sheep or ram was in place of his son and
Ibrahim (as) knew that the sacrifice had been accepted. On this occasion, Ibrahim (as) had proven himself
and passed this great trial from Allah (Alhamdulilla).
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Later on, Allah blessed Ibrahim (as) with another son, whom they named Ishaq. This time he was born from
Sarah, Prophet Ibrahim (as)’s first wife. Historic sources tell us Ishaq was born 13 years after the birth of his
brother Ismael. There was much happiness in the household of Ibrahim (as) after the birth of another
beautiful baby boy.

From the descendents of Ishaq, there were many great tribes and the Jews are traced through Ishaq to
Ibrahim (as). From Ishaq's descendents there were many great prophets including Yusuf, Yaqoob, Isa, Musa,
Dawood and Yahya. Similarly, through Ismael, there were many great tribes, the most famous being the
Quraish. Prophet Muhammad is a descendent of Ibrahim (as) through Ismael. Therefore, the Jews and the
Arabs are actually cousins or brethren of each other.
Ismael was respected and loved by the people of Hijaz. The main tribe that settled was the tribe of Jurhum.
They married one of their daughters to Ismael and Ismael settled down. On one occasion, Ibrahim (as) went
to visit his son but Ismael was not at home. Ibrahim (as) asked Ismael’s wife about their household. She
complained of poverty to Ibrahim (as). When Ibrahim (as) was ready to leave, he asked her to give Ismael
the message that the doorstep of his house was crooked and to change it. When Ismael got the message he
divorced his wife and later married another woman from Jurhum.
Another time Ibrahim (as) came to meet Ismael and again Ismael was not at home. He asked Ismael’s wife
about them and about their life together. She said Alhamdulilla, everything was well and thanked Allah for
whatever little they had been blessed with. On leaving Ibrahim (as) left a message that the doorstep of his
house was fine. Through this wife, all the descendents of Ismael are traced.
On a third occasion, Ibrahim (as) went and visited his son, Ismael. He found him in the valley of Makkah.
After a happy reunion they both, by the command of Allah, built the Ka'bah. This was the first house built
for the worship of the one and only true god of all mankind. He then asked the tribes to make pilgrimage to
this house of Allah.
A long time ago, Ibrahim (as) started this pilgrimage and he commanded the people to perform this
pilgrimage. From then until now, many millions of Muslims still visit the Ka'bahand perform the Hajj. The
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and all Muslims must carry out the Hajj, at least once in their lifetime.
The people after Ismael became misguided and gradually began to worship stone idols. What was worse
was that they began to fill this holy sanctuary in Makkah with Idols. What Ibrahim (as) had advised and
fought against was happening even in this holiest of holy places. The people still believed in Allah but also
had faith in these idols. Allah took away the blessing of Zamzam from the people and left them in a state of
misguidance.
The society had become astray from the truth. The misguidance continued for hundreds of years until
prophet Muhammad was sent as a messenger to the people. By this time, the society had become
engrossed in many forms of evil and had completely strayed from all that was good. The prophet came and
cleansed this holy place from all the evil and forms of shirk.

However, just before the prophet’s time, one noble person from the tribe of Quraysh was going to restore
some of these blessing. This person was Abdul Muttalib, the Prophet’s grandfather. But that is another
story for another day, inshallah.
4. ABDUL MUTALLIB
After the time of Prophet Ibrahim (as) and Ismael, the people gradually began to worship and pray to Idols.
They began to believe in many gods, who they said were partners with Allah. This is the worst sin called
shirk and led to the downfall of this once healthy and prosperous society.
as time went on, things became so bad that the house of Allah, the Ka'bah, was filled and surrounded by
360 idols. Allah made the people hard-hearted and they fought over the smallest thing. Much hatred and
bloodshed existed within this community and evil was rampant. This period is known as Jahaliat, the times
of ignorance.
The period before Islam is described in this poem:
Arabia is the location of this rhyme,

long ago, before our prophets time.
It was a very harsh and barren land,
surrounded by vast oceans of sand.
The Arab society, lacked law and order

and was infested with chaos and disorder.
All the Arabs did was quarrel and fight.
Few were educated, a handful could write.
The strong and ruthless ruled the tribes,

consisting mainly of corruption and bribes.
Much blood was spilt in many a feud,
and their fighting was unjust and crude.
They fought over the smallest thing

and death and mourning, this would bring.
These tribal feuds, for years would last
and deep into misery, the society was cast.
Every vice and evil, they staunchly followed

In their depravity, like animals they wallowed

Chasing every desire, alcohol they drank.
To the depth of corruption, they now sank.
Rights and dignity they didn't respect,

to call them barbaric would be correct.
Their treatment of orphans was inhumane,
cause them suffering and so much pain.
The women's status was considered low.

Not a shred of respect, did they ever show.
It is evident enough that evil did thrive,
when newborn daughters were buried alive.
They worshipped gods made of stone

Others made of wood, feathers or bone
Some worshiped trees, stars or the sun
And the belief in one god, they did shun
Every civilization had passed them by

To conquer them, no nation would try
To them the Arabs were a lost cause
A society riddled with evil and flaws
In total ignorance, the Arabs thus dwelled

and against Allah, they continually rebelled
To truth and knowledge, they were blind
and this rang true, for the rest of mankind
It was from Arabia, the truth shone bright

The words of Allah, an illuminating light
It came in the form of the Holy Qu'ran.
Guidance from Allah - the Lord of man.
There were a few significant people that came before the prophet, which are worth mentioning. Qusay was
one of the main chiefs of Makkah, who was from the tribe of Quraish. He was a handsome fellow and the
leadership of Makkah fell to him after a bitter war. War was common amongst the Arabs. The Quraish were
considered amongst the noblest tribes because they were direct descendents of Ismael.

Qusay ruled Makkah like a king. He would collect the taxes from the people, to provide for the pilgrims who
still visited Makkah and performed the Hajj. Qusay built himself a big spacious house close to the sanctuary.
He also encouraged his tribesmen to build themselves houses. Previously the people had lived in tents,
camping close to the Ka'bah.
Qusay had many sons, the most prominent and famous was Hashim. He was very gifted and provided water
and food for the pilgrims, when they came to Makkah. He was a great merchant and established the two
great trade routes through Makkah. Both the trade routes passed through Yathrib, which was a small oasis
town which lay on the ancient incense route. The winter trade route was between Makkah and Yemen
whilst the summer trade route went into northern Arabia going into Palestine and Syria.
Through this trade, Makkah began to prosper and became a major city which attracted much wealth.
Hashim married Salma, the daughter of Amr, from the clan of Khazraj. Salma and Hashim had one son
whom they named Shaybah. Both Salma and Shaybah remained in Yathrib and were often visited by
Hashim on his trade journeys. However, Hashim wasn’t granted a long life and he passed away in the Gaza
in Palestine. Shaybah remained with Salma in Yathrib, until Shaybah was about 14 years of age.
Muttalib, the brother of Hashim took over the role of looking after the affairs of the pilgrims. However, he
had great love for his brother, Hashim, who had passed away at such a young age. He also heard a lot of
good things said about Hashim’s son, Shaybah. Shaybah had continued to live in Yathrib with his mother
Salma after his father had passed away. He was growing into a pleasant youngster with a kind nature.
Mutallib decided to visit Salma and Shaybah in Yathrib. On reaching Yathrib he spoke to his nephew and
Salma. He explained to them that since Shaybah was a son of Hashim, he should come and live in Makkah.
Makkah was a great city and had a lot more to offer than Yathrib. This was especially true because Shaybah
was from the tribe of Quraish, the most respected and honoured tribe in Arabia. He also had the possibility
of taking over the sacred and noble duties at Hajj, which his father fulfilled so well.
Salma, reluctantly at first, decided to let Shaybah travel to and live in Makkah with his uncle Muttalib. Both
Uncle and nephew set off for Makkah, leaving behind Yathrib. When they reached Makkah, the people
were amused at the sight of seeing Muttalib and this young boy, whom they assumed to be the slave of
Muttalib. They referred to him as Abdul Muttalib, which means the slave of Muttalib. After Muttalib
corrected them and told them that he was his nephew, they lovingly continued to call Shaybah by the name
of Abdul Muttalib.
After Abdul Muttalib came to Makkah, he came to be loved by the people, He managed to secure his rights
from his family and lived happily in Makkah. After Muttalib passed away, Abdul Muttalib took over in the
duties of proving food and water for the pilgrims. He excelled in this, which further enhanced his reputation

for leadership and fairness.
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One of the first events which took place at the time of Abdul Muttalib was the rediscovery of the blessing of
Zamzam. The Zamzam had been taken away from the people when they had strayed from tawheed. The
Zamzam was a great blessing of Allah which had been gifted to the people many hundreds of years earlier.
The people had gradually moved away from the truth and became more wicked and unjust. They began to
worship idols, which is such a grave sin. Allah took the Zamzam away from the people and this blessing had
been lost for many years.
The story begins when Abdul Muttalib was sleeping under the shade of the Ka'bah, at a place near the Hijr
Ismael. This was a common occurrence for people to see Abdul Mutallib sleeping there. One time, he had a
dream which repeated itself three times and in the last dream, he heard a voice asking him to dig in a
certain place near the Ka'bah.
Abdul Muttalib was initially stunned by the dreams but then decided he would listen to this voice in the
dream. Abdul Muttalib, in the company of his son Hashim, took two pick axes and began to dig near the
Ka'bah. It was at the place where animals were sacrificed, between the two idols. Before long a crowd
gathered to see what was happening. He was asked to stop by some of the people but he continued to dig
with his son Harith watching over him.
Before long he came to some well stones where he found some treasures the tribe of Juram had buried.
This included swords, armours and the two gold statues. He also found the well of Zamzam that had been
lost and forgotten about for so many years. When he unearthed it, the water gushed forth and others tried
to join Abdul Muttalib in this blessed work. However, he lay claim to the finding and the tradition of
providing Zamzam fell exclusively to him.
After this Abdul Muttalib gained lots of respect from the Arabs. He did a prayer that may Allah provide him
with ten sons and promised that if they all grew up into young men he would sacrifice one of them. Little
did he know that Allah would soon bless him with ten sons and he would need to fulfil this promise.
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Over time he had ten sons and with regret he remembered his promise to sacrifice one of them. For such a
long time he dreaded this day but he knew in his heart that he would need to. Abdul Mutallib decided to
fulfil his promise but which son would he choose? Abdul Muttalib drew lots and the fate of the sacrifice fell
on Abdullah, the youngest and his most beloved son. He was very sad but he knew that he must fulfil this
promise.
Abdul Muttalib went to the Ka'bahwith his son Abdullah intending to sacrifice him. When the people saw
this they stopped him asking him where he was going with this handsome young boy and the knife. The

people learned that he was going to sacrifice him so they told him to sacrifice some camels instead.
After listening to their advice he decided to consult a wise woman from Yathrib. Adbul Mutallib told the
whole story to the wise woman and she advised him to sacrifice ten camels at a time until the promise was
fulfilled. He would know that the promise was fulfilled when the divining arrow would point at the camels
instead of his son. The divining arrows was a way of deciding a matter in the days of ignorance.
He would sacrifice ten camels and the arrow would point towards his son. He would sacrifice another ten
camels and would check with the arrow each time. He sacrificed a total of a hundred camels (ten at a time)
until he knew that this was acceptable to fulfil his promise.
Abdul Muttalib arranged for his son, Abdullah, to marry a lady by the name of Aminah from a tribe in
Yathrib. Abdullah was only a young man of twenty-five, was very handsome and a noor filled his face when
he was going to get married. They were a well-matched couple and everyone celebrated with great
happiness and joy.
Aminah and Abdullah started their life together and after a few months he was asked to go on a trade
journey to Syria. Aminah was upset because they had only been married for a few months and now
Abdullah was going to leave. Deep down she knew that they would be together soon when he returned
from the journey. Little was she to know that he would not return to her alive.
Inshallah continued next week.
5. THE YEAR OF THE ELEPHANT
Abdul Mutallib had ten sons, the youngest of whom was Abdullah. From all his sons, Abdul Mutallib loved
Abdullah very much. When Abdullah was old enough to get married, he was married to Amina, daughter of
Wahab bin ‘Abd Munaf, the chief of Bani Zuhrah. She was a noble and respected lady from a good family.
After a few months of marriage, Abdul Muttalib sent Abdullah on a trade journey to Syria. On his return
journey from Syria, Abdullah became very ill and passed away. He was buried near Yathrib. This was a
particularly sad occasion for Abdul Mutallib because he loved Abdullah very much and Allah had taken his
life at such a young age of twenty five. Amina was also extremely sad at the death of her husband with
whom she had spent such little time. Amina thought about Abdullah’s child, who wasn’t born yet and had
already been orphaned.
However, to add to this burden, another storm was brewing in the form of an army of sixty thousand
soldiers. They were coming from Yemen with the intent of destroying the Ka'bah. The Arabs had never seen
such a big army before and knew deep down that they would never be able to fight such a force. This army

was fully equipped and trained for war. It was commanded by the Yemeni King, Abraha and was led by a
number of powerful elephants.
The army was gradually moving towards Makkah and was only a matter of time before it had arrived. The
people of Makkah, had no intention of defending the Ka'bahand fighting this huge army. They had already
decided in their hearts that they would retreat to the mountains until the army had left.
The Surah al-feel talks about this incident. The Surah is translated below and followed by some
commentary on the surah.
----------------------------------------------------
Al-Feel (the Elephant)
Have you not seen how your Lord dealt with the people of the Elephant?
Did he not render their treacherous plan futile?
He let loose against them flights of birds
Which pelted them with stone of Baked clay
Thus he made them like chewed dry Grass.
----------------------------------------------------
This is Surah number 105 in the Holy Qu'ran. The Qu'ran has a total of 114 surahs which are of different
lengths. Allah revealed the Qu'ran over a period of 23 years. The surahs have been put under two headings
- the Makki Surahs and the Madni Surahs. The Makki Surah were revealed before the Hijra (the migration
from Makkah to Madina by the prophet). The Madni Surah were revealed after the Hijra. All the scholars
agree that Surah al-feel is a Makki Surah.
This Surah is addressing the Arabs at the time of the prophet and remind them of the great favours Allah
has done for them. It reminds them of an incidents which they had witnessed with their own eyes. It talks
about the mighty army of Abraha which was too powerful for all Arabia to fight. Allah has destroyed the
entire army swiftly when it attacked the Ka'bah.
The Ka'bahhad become a place of pilgrimage drawing people from all over the Arabian Peninsula. It became
very busy and a lot of trade and business took place there. Some other countries saw this success and tried
to create their own building, which could be used to attract people and let them make pilgrimage. Allah,
however, did not grant any of them success.
Abraha, the king of Yemen, was an Abyssinian Christian who built a magnificent cathedral in the capital of
Yemen, Sanah. After building this Cathedral and decorating it with gold, he wrote to the Negus saying he
would not rest until he had diverted the Arab's pilgrimage to it. He publicly announced this in Yemen so
that everyone new about this.

He was trying to provoke the Arabs into some form of retaliation, giving him an excuse to attack Makkah
and destroy the Ka'bah. An enraged Arab defiles the Cathedral and a group of Quraysh set fire to it. This
was all the excuse Abraha was looking for, so in 571 AD he took his army and set march towards Makkah.
His army included sixty thousand troops and thirteen elephants.
Yemen was a super power in its time. No way could anyone fight against such a vast and powerful army -
most had never seen such a big army in their lives! On the way, Abraha had some minor retaliation from
the tribes but gradually headed towards Makkah. He also got some guides on the way to give him the best
and safest route.
Near the outskirts of Makkah, Abraha captured two hundred camels that belonged to Abdul-Muttalib. He
then sent an envoy of his to Makkah to tell them that he had no intention to fight the Arabs but to destroy
the Ka'bah. If they offered no resistance then there would be no cause for bloodshed. He also instructed
them that if they wanted to negotiate with him then they should return with their chief. The chief of
Makkah at that time was Abdul-Muttalib.
Abdul Muttalib was taken to Abraha, who asked him what he wanted. Abdul Muttalib replied that he
wanted the camels that Abraha had taken to be returned to him. Abraha returns the camels and said that
you only demand your camels but you say nothing about this house which is your sanctuary and the
sanctuary of your forefathers.
Abdul Muttalib replied that I am the owner of the camels and as for the house it has its own owner and he
will defend it. With this Abdul Muttalib left and went back to Makkah.
Abdul Muttalib told the people to take their families and go to the mountains on the outskirts of Makkah.
Abdul Muttalib went to the Ka'bahand prayed to Allah to protect his house. He did not pray to any of the
idols that were in the Ka'bahbut to Allah himself. After this Abdul-Muttalib and his companions left and
headed for the mountains to join the rest of the Makkans.
The next morning Abraha prepared to enter Makkah with his special elephant, Mahmood, leading the army.
Mahmood stopped and knelt down refusing to move. It was coaxed and then beaten with iron bats trying
to get it to move forward. When it was made to face any other direction, it would immediately start off but
when they made it face Makkah it would again stop.
Suddenly swarms of birds appeared with stones in their beaks and claws and showered the army with
them. Whoever the stones hit would start to disintegrate until the whole army was destroyed. In the
confusion they tried to retreat to Yemen but the whole army was destroyed. This incident became famous
and the story reached all corners of Arabia. After this the Makkans started to worship Allah for a few years

then they returned to worshiping idols.
This year became known as the year of the elephant. It was in this year, 571CE, that an even greater event
took place which would change the course of world history. A special child was born in Makkah to the lady
Amina and her husband Abdullah, who had recently passed away. The birth of this child was celebrated in
the heavens above and foretold in books of history and religion throughout the world. He would bring
justice and the knowledge of the almighty creator to the Earth. He would enlighten the world, removing the
shackles of ignorance and subservience. This child was born to an ignorant and decedent society which
would be transformed into the most knowledgeable and just society.
This child would grow and become a role model for many billions of humans from all parts of the world. His
words and actions would be spoken about and studied for thousands of years afterwards. This child would
grow to become Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the rest of the seerah lessons are dedicated to his life,
inshallah.
6. THE BIRTH OF MUHAMMAD AND HIS EARLY LIFE

The Prophet Muhammad was born on Monday 12th Rabi-ul-awal (571AD) which is approx. 20/22 of April.
After he was born, Amina sent word to his grandfather, Abdul-Muttalib of the joyous news. Abdul Mutallib
was at the Ka'bahand he rushed back to see his beloved new grandson.
Abdul-Muttalib tenderly held this newborn baby in his arms. He then took him to the Ka'bahand prayed to
Allah and thanked him for such a great blessing. He then named him Muhammad - the praised one, which
was not a name common to the Arabs. Muhammad was circumcised on the 7th day, which was the custom
of the Arabs.
It was the general custom of the Arabs that their young children were sent to the desert to be brought up
with the Bedouins. The tough desert life gave the child a good start in life and the language of the Bedouins
was a much purer Arabic. For a few year, they grew up in this harsh but health desert life before returning
to their parents.
The Prophet was entrusted to Halima Sadia. She was a poor wet nurse. She and her husband only had a
donkey and old she-camel. She did not even have enough milk to feed the other child in her care. It was
also the year of famine and drought so they would constantly pray for rain.
None of the other Bedouin wet nurses wanted to take the child Muhammad because he was an orphan.
When a child was returned to the family of the foster child, they would reward the wet nurse generously.
They couldn’t expect to gain many riches from a child who was an orphan. Every woman got a child to bring
up but Halima, who had arrived last and did not find a child to foster. She was ready to go back when she
decided to return and collect the child Muhammad, even though he was an orphan.

As soon as she lifted Muhammad (pbuh), her fortunes turned right around and her life was filled with
immense good fortune. Both Muhammad and the other foster child were fully fed, even though the
previous night there was no milk for the other child. The old she camel, which had not given a drop of milk,
was soon over flowing with milk. Halima was at the very back of the group of women but now was at the
front of the group. This was indeed a great blessing for this poor Bedouin family.
Halima knew that she had a blessed child with all the miracles and blessings she was seeing with her own
eyes. Halima’s herd of goats used to come home full, and over flowing with milk. The rest of the Bedouins'
goats used to come home scraggy and empty. They used to complain to the shepherd to take the sheep and
goats to the same place that Halima takes her flock! There were many more signs about how her life was
turned around.
After two years, Muhammad was returned to His mother Amina, but soon Amina was persuaded by Halima
to return the baby back with them for another two years. At this time, Halima told Amina about the great
blessings that she had received when Muhammad was in her care. There was also an illness in Makkah and
the child would be protected from it.
A strange incident took place in the prophet’s childhood. Once both Muhammad and his foster brother
were playing in the yard with the goats when the Angel Jibrael appeared to them. The Angel came split
open Muhammad’s chest, took out his heart, removed a blood clot and washed it in Zamzam. The angel
then returned the heart to Muhammad's body before going away. The angel said this was the part of
shaytan in you.
His foster brother ran to Halima and said that Muhammad has been murdered. She rushed out and found
Muhammad standing with a pale white face. She checked over his body and found that he was fine.
Very shortly she returned him to Amina, his mother. Amina found out from Halima about the events that
had taken place. Amina assured Halima that Muhammad was not under the influence from any devil or jinn
but even when she was expecting him she had seen great marvels and miracles. Muhammad was returned
to the care of his mother Amina and continued to live with her and Barakah.
Barakah was a slave girl who had been purchased in the slave markets and given as a present to Abdullah.
She lived in the household of Abdullah and Amina. When Abdullah passed away she looked after Amina and
later took care of Muhammad. She was dedicated to looking after Muhammad her whole life. She also
loved him immensely and was with him throughout his sadness and joys. Muhammad also had great
respect and love for this woman.
When Muhammad was six years old, he accompanied Amina and Bakarah on a trip to Yathrib. This was a
chance for Muhammad to become acquainted with his uncles in Yathrib and also to see the grave of his
father, whom he had never met. On his journey, Amina told Muhammad about his father and his uncles but

when they got there, Amina became ill and also passed away. Muhammad and Bakarah both returned in
tears and Abdul Mutallib began to look after this orphaned child.
This was the second tragedy to strike this six-year-old child. His father passed away before he was born and
now his mother had also passed away! He came under the guardianship of his grandfather Abdul Mutallib.
Abdul Mutallib had loved Abdullah so much and had been greatly saddened when Abdullah passed away. In
Muhammad he could see the beauty and character of Abdullah and he loved Muhammad dearly. He had
extra compassion for his orphaned grandchild, Muhammad than for his other grandchildren.
Abdul Muttalib loved Muhammad, in fact some say he took compassion on Muhammad and loved him
more than his own children. Abdul Muttalib thought that one day his grandchild Muhammad would be a
very special and significant person. He saw Muhammad's kind and generous character and there was a
special noor inside of him, which he couldn’t explain.
Abdul Muttalib often took Muhammad to the Ka'bahwith him. When Abdul-Muttalib used to lie on the
couch near the Ka'bah, Muhammad was always near him sitting on the mattress. The rest of Abdul
Muttalib's children would sit on the floor around the couch.
Hence, Muhammad came under the care of this kind and generous old man, his grandfather. Although
Muhammad had suffered so much tragedy in his life, he never felt that he wasn’t loved. His grandfather
surrounded him with love and looked after him as if he was his own son.
However, this love would not last for long. Another great catastrophe was ready to strike. When
Muhammad was eight years old, Abdul-Mutallib passed away and that episode in the young child’s life also
ended. He was heart broken at the death of his grandfather but would soon find much love and happiness
under the care of his uncle Abu Talib. Abu Talib was by no means rich but was a kind and generous fellow.
He was respected by all the tribes that lived in Makkah.
Living with Abu Talib wasn’t a life of ease so he tended sheep on the outskirts of Makkah as a youngster.
This proved him to be a responsible and honest person. All the prophets were shepherds before they were
given prophethood. He did have a loving guardian and was offered much love and friendship by Abu Talib's
family. This he appreciated for the rest of his life.
Things were running smoothly for Muhammad. He wasn’t to know that signs were already showing of his
greatness to be and that many great events were going to be taking place in his later life. How could he
know what great trials he would face in the future? How would he know about the great responsibility he
would bear which no human had ever been given before? How would he know that he would change the
course of human history and touch the lives of billions of people that would come after him?

7. MUHAMMAD AS A YOUTH AND THE TRADE JOURNEYS
Muhammad (pbuh) began to grow up in a steady family home with Abu Talib, his uncle. Muhammad
tended sheep as a youngster and later when he was about 12 years old, he accompanied Abu Talib on a
trade journey to Syria. In a place called Bushra a very interesting incident took place, which caused Abu
Talib to return Muhammad to Makkah.
On their trade journey they met a monk by the name of Bahira. Bahira lived a simple life in a monastery. He
had very simple provisions and lived a harsh life, surviving on the bare essentials of life. His diet was very
simple and the clothes he wore were also coarse and well worn. He was looking outside and saw a caravan
approaching. His residence were on the main caravan route and he regularly saw caravans passing by. They
would be carrying different goods destined to be sold in the great markets of Syria.
He noticed that this caravan was different; there was something special about it. He decided to invite them
to a meal and find out more. Bahira sent a message to the caravan that his hospitality was extended to all
the members of the caravan. The caravan traders accepted the invitation and arrived at the monk’s place.
When they arrived, Bahira searched their faces looking for something. He said that I offered my hospitality
to everyone did you leave anyone behind? They said that we left a young boy Muhammad to look after the
camels. Bahira insisted that they send someone to get Muhammad and bring him to the entertainment.
When Bahira saw the face of Muhammad he was delighted.
After the food, Bahira approached Abu Talib saying that Muhammad would be a great prophet one day. He
said that when he had seen the caravan in the distance there was a cloud hanging over them, which was
shading them from the great heat of the desert. When the caravan had stopped under a tree the cloud had
also stopped above them.
Bahira said that he had seen the stones and the trees prostrating to Muhammad as Muhammad had been
walking by. They only do this for a prophet of Allah. He looked at the Muhammad's back and noticed the
seal of the prophet, which was an oval shape protruding just below Muhammad's shoulder blades. He said
that this was one of the signs of a great prophet to come that was taught to them in their books.
Bahira said "This is the master of all humans, Allah will send him with a message which would be a mercy to
all Humans". Bahira advised that Muhammad should be taken back to Makkah at once, if the Jews found
out about Muhammad they would try to kill him. Abu Talib took the advice of this wise old monk and sent
Muhammad back with some of the guides.
This was the last trade journey Abu Talib went on. He stayed and worked in Makkah and looked after his

children. They would go to the markets and see the many sights and hear the poets. Muhammad did not go
on any trade journeys for a while, instead he tended sheep on the outskirts of Makkah. This gave
Muhammad time to think about the world around him and look into the beautiful sky night. He looked at
the wonderful creation around him, with its complexity and beauty.
During the Prophets early life, when he was 15 years old, there was a war called the Fijar war, or the
Sacrilegious war. The reason that it was called the Sacrilegious war was because it was fought in the holy
months. In these months, all fighting was prohibited and was meant to be a time of peace. This war lasted
for a number of years and a lot of human life was lost.
Muhammad himself did not fight in the war but collected arrows for his uncles in one of the battles. After
the war had finished, the main tribes of Arabia got together to make a pact between them. This
confederacy was designed to protect the weak and the destitute also bringing more justice to the Makkan
society.
When the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was 20 years old he was getting many offers, from different people,
to take trade caravans to different parts of the Arabian Peninsula. They wanted Muhammad to trade for
them with the profit being shared between the two parties. There was one person who was unable to
travel so Muhammad (PBUH) decided to lead the trade caravan for him.
In this trip Muhammad would get a share in the profit and in this case proved to be very good. This made
him very sought after by other traders. There was many offers of marriage from different people but
financially Muhammad was not in a position to accept. However after this trip he was in a better position to
get married.
Muhammad still stayed in the household of Abu Talib. Muhammad had become very close with the family
of Abu Talib who had shown great generosity and kindness to Muhammad in the past. Abu Talib had three
sons: Jaffar who was four years old, Aqil who was thirteen and Talib who was similar in age to Muhammad.
One of the richer merchants was Khadija, a widow who was very successful in trade. She was not able to do
trade herself so she hired men to do her bidding on her behalf. The reputation of Muhammad was such
that he was given the title of Al-Amin (the trust worthy - the honest, the truthful). Khadija became
interested in hiring Muhammad for a trade Journey.
Khadija soon sent word to Muhammad asking him if he would take a trade caravan to Syria. She would pay
him a high fee, which was double that of which she had paid any other person. She also gave Muhammad
the services of a young lad by the name of Maysarah who would look after him on the journey.

When Muhammad reached Basra, he was shading under a tree when a Monk saw him by the name of
Nestor. Nestor asked Maysarah about the person sitting under the tree; Maysarah replied that it was
Muhammad. Nestor said, that person is no other than a messenger of Allah.
Maysarah soon realised that he was in the company of a very special person. He said that he noticed that
the heat was extreme when he saw a clear vision of two angels shading Muhammad from the heat of the
day.
Muhammad later returned to Makkah and told Khadija about the journey. He told her about the stuff they
had sold and about the goods they had bought in Syria. Khadija was able to sells these new goods for
double the money Muhammad had paid for in Syria. She was very happy and pleased with Muhammad and
his dealings on this trip.
Khadija was very pleased with Muhammad but was more pleased with his integrity, honesty and character.
She now had more on her mind than just hiring him for trade journeys. She had many thoughts and ideas
going through her mind but how would she approach Muhammad? What did she want from Muhammad?
More next time inshallah
8. MARRIAGE AND THE REBUILDING OF THE KA'BAH

Khadija was a well-respected woman amongst the Makkans. She was from a noble lineage and was also
respected as a good merchant. She did not do the trade herself but hired others to carry out her business
on her behalf. Through this trade she became very well off.
In the past, some of the Makkans had proposed to her for marriage but she had refused them. She was now
forty years old and there was someone she was interested in marrying. She had heard about Muhammad
and his fine character. She had met this youngster of twenty-five years of age and liked his good manners
and honesty. She had hired him and seen that he was decent and honest, as well as a good businessman.
She was thinking about marrying this young man.
She spoke to a close friend of hers called Nufaysah. Nufaysah said that she would look into this matter on
her behalf. She went to Muhammad and spoke to him about marriage. Muhammad told her that he wasn’t
married and that he felt that he wasn’t in a position to get married. On further discussion Nufaysah said she
would arrange a meeting between Muhammad and Khadija. Both Muhammad and Khadija got together and
decided to speak to their uncles about getting marriage.
Muhammad (pbuh) was twenty-five years old and Khadija was about forty years old when they got married.
From that day onwards Muhammad and Khadija were very happy and also became the very best of friends.

On the day of the marriage, Muhammad had a 'wet nurse' Barakah who had looked after Muhammad all his
life. She was a slave woman from the time of Abdullah, his father. Muhammad set Barakah free who later
got married to someone in Yathrib. Khadija offered Muhammad a servant to help. He was a young boy by
the name of Zayd. Zayd was bought from one of the great slave markets and then given to Khadija.
Khadija was a great friend to Muhammad and also a loving companion. She bore him six children. There
was great joy as well as some sadness in their marriage. Muhammad was blessed with six children: His son
Qasim was the oldest but he passed away at the age of about two years old (Muhammad got the title Abu
Qasim - the father of Qasim); the next four children were daughters - Zaynab, Rukayah, Umm Kulthum and
Fatima. After them another son was born who again passed away at an early age.
Halima used to visit them sometimes and they were always very generous to her. There was a time when
there was a great drought in Hijaz and Khadija gave Halima forty sheep and a camel. It was at this time that
Ali, the son of Abu Talib, came to stay with Muhammad.
Life after marriage was very simple without anything out of the ordinary happening. He lived a normal life
in this city of Makkah. He had a stable home life with his loving companion Khadija. They lived comfortably
and looked after each other and their family and friends. Muhammad was known to be kind, honest and
generous other than which there was nothing exceptionally different about him.
Muhammad would often take some provisions and go out for a few days to the caves around Makkah, away
from the hustle and bustle of the city. This was an age-old practice where a few days were dedicated to
solitude and reflection. Muhammad would go and spend some time in this secluded environment then
return back to normal everyday life.
Muhammad never prayed or worshipped the Idols that lay around the Ka'bah. He kept himself clear of this
form of shirk. He would look after the poor and the orphans. He would entertain his guests and look after
them. He was considered very kind and honourable amongst the Arabs. Other than this Muhammad was
like anyone else. He did not know at this time the great responsibility he would be burdened with in the
near future. He did not know that he would be given prophethood and be sent to Mankind to reform them
and to teach them about Allah. He did not know that he would be given a divine message that would
transform not only Arabia but the whole world.
There was one incident that took place, which showed the respect the Makkans had for Muhammad. In this
incident, Muhammad managed to prevent bloodshed and kept the peace amongst the different tribes of
Makkah. This incident took place when Muhammad was 35 years of age.

The Ka'bahhad existed from the time of Ibrahim (as) and had been a place of pilgrimage and worship.
However, the Ka'bahitself was showing signs of wear and tear as well as getting old. The white stoned walls
of the Ka'bahwere cracking and weakening. The Ka'bahwas roofless and the walls were not very tall. The
Ka'bahbecame an easy target for anyone to climb in and steal the treasures. There was significant damage
done in the great flood of Makkah and was in urgent need of repair.
The Makkans decided that they would rebuild and repair the Ka'bah. They would make it stronger and more
secure as well as repair the damaged done. The first person to remove the stone was Abu Wahab who lifted
the stone from top of the wall but it fell back into the place where it was removed. The people moved away
from the Ka'bahwith fear.
Then Wahid, the chief of the tribe of Makhzume, took a pickaxe and was ready to destroy the Ka'bah. He
did a prayer saying that he only intended good. He then took his pickaxe and destroyed one side of the wall.
The people all watched and the following morning when they found that nothing had happened to him
during the night came and helped him.
The walls were brought down to their foundations. They came across some large greenish cobbled stones
that Ibrahim (as) had laid, which were the original foundations. One of the men put a crowbar between the
stones to move them. There was a tremendous quake that shook Makkah. It was taken as a sign not to
remove these foundations.
Quraish then began the tremendous task of rebuilding the Ka'bah. They gathered extra stones so that they
could make the new walls higher. They worked together, each clan working at a particular part of the
building. They built it up until it became high enough for the black stone to be put in its place.
There was a disagreement about who should put the black stone into the corner of the Ka'bah. Each tribe
wanted the honour of placing the stone in the Ka'bah. This lasted for four or five days until it came to the
point that they were ready to go to fight over this.
One of the old men said that the next person to come to the Ka'bahshould decide who will put the stone in
the Ka'bah. They all agreed with the old man and waited anxiously for the next person to walk into the
Ka'bah. Muhammad, who had been absent for a while, came to the Ka'bahand was greeted by spontaneous
joy from all the Arabs.
Muhammad listened to the people and then asked them to bring a cloak. When they brought him a cloak,
he placed it on the ground and put the black stone in the middle. He then asked one member of each tribe
to hold the ends of the cloak and lift it into the air. When the stone was at the right height Muhammad
placed it in the right place with his own hands.

The Arabs were happy with the decision and this stopped the violence and bloodshed that was going to
follow. The funds used to build the Ka'bahwere only collected from lawful sources so the whole project
could not be completed. Although, the Ka'bahitself was completed, the Hateem that is like a semi-circular
wall was not built. The door of the Ka'bahwas raised by two meters from the ground. This improved the
security and also meant that the Makkans could choose who was allowed into the Ka'bah.
It was only a short time after this that the Angel Jibrael came to Muhammad and brought to him the first
few verses of the Qu'ran. He was in a cave in mount Hira, on the outskirts of Makkah when this happened.
That is another story for another week, inshallah.
9. PROPHETHOOD AND THE EARLY MUSLIMS

It was in the month of Ramadan when an incident took place, which would change the rest of Muhammad’s
life and the course of human history. The Prophet (pbuh) was forty years old and until now he had lived a
relatively normal life. Until this day, he wasn’t well known for anything apart from his honesty and good
character.
The Prophet (pbuh) had dedicated a few days to Allah, away from the world, in seclusion. Muhammad
(pbuh) was alone in a cave in mount Hira, on the outskirts of Makkah when suddenly the angel Jibrael
appeared to him in the form of a man. The angel said to the prophet ‘IQRA’ which means to read, repeat or
recite. The prophet (pbuh) was shocked and terrified when he saw the angel before him because he had
been alone in the cave until then. The Prophet (pbuh) replied to the angel “I can not read.” The angel
grabbed the prophet (pbuh) and squeezed him, repeating the same words to the prophet (pbuh) – Iqra. The
Prophet (pbuh) again replied, “I can not read!”
As we know very few people could read and write at this time in Arabia. Most people had very little
education and this was also true for our beloved Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The word Iqra has a few
meanings and this is the character of the Arabic language. Each word is taken from a root word that defines
the meaning of this word.
The angel squeezed the prophet (pbuh) a second time and then repeated ‘IQRA’ for a third time. The
Prophet (pbuh) replied with the same words “I can not read!” The angel squeezed the Prophet (pbuh) a
third time and said Iqra, bismi rabi kalla zi….:
Read in the name of your lord who created
He created man from a clot of blood
Read and your lord is most bountiful
He who has taught by the pen
Taught man that which he knew not

The prophet (pbuh) afterwards talked of this experience and recalled how it was – as if these words were
written on his heart. The prophet (pbuh) was scared and confused. He could not believe what had
happened and he ran from the cave towards the house. On the way he heard a voice above him saying you
are Muhammad (pbuh) the messenger of Allah and I am Jibrael.
Muhammad (pbuh) turned around and saw the angel standing astride, filling the whole horizon. The
prophet (pbuh) turned away and wherever he turned he could see the angel. The prophet (pbuh) heard the
same words as before that you are Muhammad (pbuh) the messenger of Allah and I am Jibrael. Finally, the
angel disappeared from the horizon and the prophet (pbuh) descended down the slope and ran home.
The prophet (pbuh) went home straight to his wife. He got home and said to Khadija ,“Cover me, cover
me.” The prophet (pbuh) was trembling as he lay on the couch, covered by a cloak. He re-told the whole
story to Khadija who listened to every word. She reassured him that he was a good man and that he was
good to the orphans and helped the poor and needy. He looked after his guests and was always kind and
generous to all. Allah did not want anything bad for such a person.
She then went to her cousin Waraqah who was old and had lost his sight. He was amazed at what he heard.
He said this was the same Namus (i.e. Angel Jibrael) who had come to Musa. He also said that Muhammad
(pbuh) was the messenger of Allah and that he would have joined him if he were young and able. Waraqah
also said that the people would doubt you, ill treat you and drive you away from your home.
Many aspects of the life of the final messenger (pbuh) was foretold in the religious scripture of different
religions. This is one of the reasons why some people accepted Islam very quickly. They could see the
qualities and events about the prophet (pbuh) as described in their books. In many cases, they were waiting
for a prophet (pbuh) to come.
Muhammad (pbuh) later received more verses from the Qu'ran which was followed by a period when there
was no revelation coming to him. The Prophet (pbuh) was concerned that he might have said or done
something to incur this silence from Allah. Khadija re-assured him that Muhammad (pbuh) was a good
person and he did not do anything wrong.
After a while, the messages returned to the Prophet (pbuh) and he continued to practice Islam. Muhammad
(pbuh) began to tell some of his close companions about what had happened and asked them to keep it a
secret.
After Khadijah, the people that believed in the prophet (pbuh) were Ali and Zayd. Ali was only ten years old
and Zayd was a slave who had no influence in the Makkan Society. After them Abu Bakr, from the tribe of
Taym, accepted Islam. He was a well-mannered and liked person who was well respected by the Arabs of

Makkah. He was also a successful merchant. He used to tell some of his close friends whom accepted Islam
at his hands.
The early converts were people who knew the prophet (pbuh) very well. They knew his character and his
good qualities. They also knew that he had always been truthful and did not doubt his word when he told
them that revelation had come to him. They knew that he had never composed any words or poems in the
past and the verses of the Qu’ran were a true master piece.
Another well known story, of conversion was that Uthman son of Affan, was sleeping in the desert whilst on
a trade journey, when he heard a loud voice saying, “Sleepers, awake, Ahmad has come forth in Makkah.”
Uthman then hurried to Makkah where he met Talha on the way. Talha said that when he was in Syria, he
met a monk, who had asked if Ahmad had come to the people of the sanctuary. When Talha quizzed the
monk about Ahmad, the monk replied that Ahmad was the son of Abdullah the son of Abdul Muttalib.
Both Uthman and Talha went to Abu Bakr, who was known to be close to the Prophet (pbuh). They both
related their stories. Abu Bakr then took them to the Prophet (pbuh) and both young men accepted Islam.
These were some of the earliest converts to Islam.
One of these remarkable people who accepted Islam in the earliest stages was a young boy by the name of
Ibn Masood. He attended sheep on the outskirts of Makkah when he was a young lad. One day, the prophet
(pbuh) and Abu Bakr were passing by and asked the boy for some milk. Ibn masood refused them milk
saying that they were not his sheep. The prophet (pbuh) asked him to bring him a young sheep that did not
bear any milk. When Ibn Masood brought the sheep over, the prophet (pbuh) did a prayer and the udder
was full of milk. The prophet (pbuh) and Abu Bakr drank the milk and afterwards the udder dried up. A few
days later Ibn Masood accepted Islam and became one of the leading authorities in Islam with the regards
to the Qu'ran.
The angel Jibrael appeared to Muhammad (pbuh) one day and taught him about Wudhu and salah. The
angel cast his heel on the ground causing a spring to start gushing from the ground. The angel then showed
the prophet (pbuh) how to wash up for prayers (wudhu) and also showed Muhammad (pbuh) how to pray
to Allah. It showed the prophet (pbuh) how to perform the Salah with all the different positions of bowing
and sitting. The angel also told him what to say in the Salah. From then on the prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
began to perform Salah.
Everything was going well for the prophet (pbuh). There were a few Muslim coverts now but they were his
close friends and family. What would happen when Allah asked him to deliver the message to the
Makkans? The Makkans were war-like and stubborn, how would they react? Would they get angry and try
to kill the Muhammad (pbuh) or would they accept Islam? What trials and tribulations would the Muslims

face?
10. OPEN PREACHING OF ISLAM
The prophet (pbuh) only preached to a close group of friends and family. The ones who accepted Islam
became dedicated to Islam and began to learn, worship and study. They would hold private meeting where
they would learn the verses of the Qu'ran and the principles of Islam. They would learn to pray and would
pray to Allah, just as the angel had taught the prophet (pbuh) to. This period of preaching lasted for three
years.
However, during this period of preaching, the word got out about the prophet's message to the Makkans.
Initially, the people were not too concerned about Muhammad (pbuh). Gradually they become concerned
when they realised that the words of the prophet (pbuh) were having an effect on people. They would talk
about this mission and the effects it would have on the Arabs and the religion of their fore fathers.
After three years of this preaching, the prophet (pbuh) was commanded by Allah to start preaching to his
own clansmen. Muhammad (pbuh) collected together all his clansmen so that he could explain to them
about Allah and about his mission. The invited audience was of about forty-five Makkans from his
clansmen. This was the first encounter with Abu Lahab, who became the fiercest enemy of Islam.
The prophet (pbuh) collected the people and was about to speak to them but Abu Lahab spoke out first. He
advised the Muhammad (pbuh) that he should immediately stop his mission. He said it was better for his
people to follow the traditions of his forefathers than to face the rest of the Arabs. He said that the rest of
the Arabs would destroy them. After Abu Lahab had finished attacking the prophet’s mission, the
Messenger of Allah (pbuh) kept silent and said nothing in that meeting.
The Prophet (pbuh) invited them to another meeting and this time stood up and delivered a short speech
explaining his mission:
He said: "I celebrate Allah’s praise, I seek His help, I believe in Him, I put my trust in Him, I bear witness that
there is no god to be worshipped but Allah with no associate. A guide can never lie to his people. I swear by
Allah, there is no god but He, that I have been sent as a Messenger to you, in particular and to all the
people, in general. I swear by Allah you will die just as you sleep, you will be resurrected just as you wake
up. You will be called to account for your deeds. It is then either Hell forever or the Garden (Paradise)
forever."
The Arabs at the time did not think that they would need to account for their actions; instead they would
die and not be raised again. They believed in Allah but also believed that Allah had many partners. These
partners were the idols who, they thought, shared power with Allah! They prayed to Allah but also prayed

to these Idols. They were deeply misguided and away from the belief in one God.
It was during this meeting that Abu Talib said he would look after and defend the prophet (pbuh), even
though Abu Talib himself did not accept the Muhammad's teachings or Islam. Abu Talib was sticking to the
path of his fore fathers; he did not want to leave those traditions for something new.
Abu Lahab tried his best to dissuade Abu Talib from offering any support to Muhammad (pbuh). He was
advising Abu Talib to do the opposite by stopping Muhammad (pbuh) and his mission rather than offering
him protection. Abu Lahab threatened him by saying that it was Abu Talib’s responsibility to stop
Muhammad (pbuh) before someone else did.
The prophet Muhammad (PBUH) went to Safa and called the people together. This was a usual custom at
the time when some major event or announcement was going to be made. The people gathered together
and the prophet (pbuh) said:
‘O people of Quraysh, if I was to tell you that an army was advancing to attack you from the other side of
this mount will you believe me?’
The people knew the character of Muhammad (pbuh), after all they had given him the title of Al-Amin (the
truthful). They had seen this gentle child grow up in this world and had seen how well he dealt with people,
his honest character and his trustworthiness. They had no reason to doubt him, so they replied:
‘Yes why not? We have always found you to be truthful’
The prophet (pbuh) looked at the people assembled before him and said “ O banu Abdul Muttalib, O banu
Abd Manaf, O Banu Zuhra! I have come to you as a Warner and if you do not respond to my warning,
punishment will fall upon you. I have been sent by Allah to warn you and I can not protect you in this world,
nor can I promise you anything in the next world, unless you acknowledge and submit to the worship of the
one Allah”
There was silence and then Abu Lahab, one of the more powerful individuals and the prophets uncle, again
responded “May you perish, did you call us to this?” the crowd then dispersed.
This was one of many incidents which Abu Lahab used his influence to ridicule and mock Islam. He became
an open enemy of the prophet (pbuh) and Islam. He continued to be a hindrance and had a strong
opposition to the prophet during his sacred mission.

A major turning point was when the prophet (pbuh) was commanded to openly preach Islam to the people.
The Arabs realised the effect this message could have on Arabia. They were concerned that the words and
verses being taught were from a source beyond this world. These verses of the Qu'ran were luring some
people to Islam away from the traditional Arab way of life. The Arabs believed in a multitude of gods and
Idols but were getting taught to worship only Allah. They were getting taught that Idol worship was wrong
and evil.
Indeed the truth did stand out clear and anyone who was exposed to this message was affected. They knew
that the message could only be from Allah, the creator and sustainer and that Muhammad (pbuh) was
indeed the messenger of Allah.
They turned to Abu Talib and asked him to stop Muhammad (pbuh). They said "O Abu Talib! Your nephew
curses our gods; finds faults with our way of life, mocks at our religion and degrades our forefathers; either
you must stop him, or you must let us get at him." They explained that since they all followed the religion of
their forefather, Abu Talib should let them get rid of Muhammad (pbuh)! Abu Talib tried his best to calm
them down and make peace between them. The Prophet (pbuh) continued his mission by teaching, inviting
to and practicing Islam.
There were only a few months until an important time for the Arabs - the pilgrimage to Makkah. They were
worried that Muhammad (pbuh) might influence the pilgrims who were coming to worship these idols.
They needed to stop Muhammad (pbuh) and do something to stop the spread of Islam. They decided to get
together and join forces to stop the prophet and his message.
11. OPPOSITION TO ISLAM

The Makkans were not happy, in fact they were maddened with rage and fury. They had in their midst a
kind and honest man who was preaching a simple message, which their own souls told them was the truth.
These words and messages, however, went against everything they believed and were against the beliefs of
their forefathers. This message told them that the worship of idols was wrong and only Allah alone is
worthy of worship.
This gentle human being was Muhammad (pbuh) who had been selected by Allah, the lord of all Mankind,
to deliver the message of truth. They could not do anything to stop him because he was from Quraish and
had the protection and support of Abu Talib – a respected old man – the prophet's uncle. They wanted to
stop this message from getting out because it preached that Allah is one without partners and sons. They
believed in many gods and their city was dedicated to these ‘gods’. They felt that the Arabs who came to
perform the pilgrimage, came to see and worship these idols. If Muhammad (pbuh) told them that they
were wrong and that Allah was one, then this city would begin to decline.

The Makkans got together to try and get rid of Muhammad (pbuh) and his teachings. They had already
openly opposed it in public and had even tried to ridicule and slander the Prophet (pbuh). They had spoken
to Abu Talib and asked him to withdraw his support and protection for Muhammad (pbuh). They had failed
each time and Muhammad (pbuh) continued to preach and slowly the message was spreading.
There were only a few months until the pilgrimage would be performed and Makkah would be flooded with
many Arabs from all over the peninsula. They wanted to get together and sort out Muhammad (pbuh) and
his preaching. They wanted to get together and formulate a new plan! They wanted to minimise the effect
of the teachings of Islam upon the pilgrims.
They didn’t want to upset the tribes that came to perform the pilgrimage. They were worried in case the
Arabs threw out the Quraysh from Makkah and appointed another tribe to look after the pilgrims. They
knew that history had recorded this happening many times. They enjoyed this lofty position of looking after
the pilgrims, which was a position of honour and respect amongst the Arabs.
They decided if they joined forces they might be able to sort out Muhammad (pbuh). They would make
things up, spread rumours and lies so that people stay away from Muhammad (pbuh) and don’t listen to his
message. Someone suggested that they accuse Muhammad (pbuh) of being a sorcerer, using magic to trick
and influence people. Another said they say that Muhammad (pbuh) is just a madman and is preaching
nonsense. Another suggested they say that an evil spirit possesses Muhammad (pbuh) and that the Arabs
should ignore him and keep away from him. Another suggested that they say that Muhammad (pbuh) was
just a poet and the message of the Qu'ran was just poetry.
The fact of the matter was that none of these allegations were true and the Makkans knew this. How could
they try and combat the message of Muhammad (pbuh) and how could they halt his message from being
preached. They decided that they would consult Al-Waleed bin Al-Mugheerah – a very influential person in
his tribe.
Al-Waleed listened to all these allegations against the prophet (pbuh) and dismissed them all. He, however,
found that the most plausible way would be to suggest that Muhammad (pbuh) was a magician and that he
used magic words to influence people. They said that his ‘magic’ words would separate a father from his
son, a husband from his wife, a man from his clan… They finally decided that this was the best excuse they
could use to discredit Muhammad (pbuh). They would tell the pilgrims that Muhammad (pbuh) was a
powerful sorcerer and that they should avoid him at all costs.
So when the season of Pilgrimage came, the Makkans waited at the main roads leading to Makkah. When

the pilgrims came they would tell them about Muhammad (pbuh) and warn them to stay away from
Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers. Abu Lahab, the prophet's uncle and enemy of Islam, would follow
Muhammad (pbuh) about the market and tell the people that Muhammad (pbuh) was a madman and a liar!
Abu Lahab would advise the people not to listen to any of his words or that they would be led astray.
Despite all their efforts Muhammad (pbuh) managed to win over some of the Arabs with this message of
tawheed and goodness.
Abu Dharr was a highwayman who robbed caravans when they passed through his territory. He had heard
of the prophet (pbuh) from his brother and was making his way to Makkah to speak to the prophet (pbuh).
He wanted to see with his own eyes this man who claimed to be a prophet. He was stopped by the
Makkans on the way to the city and they informed him that Muhammad (pbuh) was a sorcerer and to avoid
him.
Abu Dharr did not worship idols and paid little heed to this warning. After asking a few people, he found out
where the prophet stayed and went straight to the prophet’s house. The Prophet (pbuh) was sleeping when
Abu Dharr got to the house. He woke Muhammad (pbuh) up and asked if he could speak to him. He
questioned Muhammad (pbuh) about his mission and about this ‘poetry’ he recited. The Prophet (pbuh)
explained to him that he was the messenger of Allah and the ‘poetry’ was the actual words of Allah, known
as the Qu'ran. These words were not poetry nor were they his own words. They were revelation that came
from Allah, the Almighty. Abu Dharr listened to the wisdom and beauty of the words of the Qu'ran and
accepted Islam by testifying to the Shahadah.
Another person who was approached by the Makkans was Tufayl, from the tribe of Bani Daws. Tufayl was a
well-respected poet in his tribe and was frightened by what the Arabs had told him. He was so frightened
that he stuffed cotton wool into his ears so that he would not hear the prophet (pbuh). However, when he
entered the precinct of the Ka'bah, he saw Muhammad (pbuh) praying the Salah and became a little
curious. Although the prophet (pbuh) was not reading the Salah aloud, he heard some of the verses from
the Qu'ran.
Tufayl was impressed with these few words that he managed to hear through the cotton wool earplugs. He
thought to himself, I am an intelligent person and indeed I am a gifted poet. I am not a child that I can’t tell
the difference between what is good and what is false. If the verses are fair then I will accept them and if
they are foul I will reject them. At this point Tufayl made up his mind to hear some of the Qu'ran and make
his own mind up about these accusations the Makkans had frightened him with. Tufayl decided to follow
Muhammad (pbuh) to his house.
Tufayl told the prophet (pbuh) about his encounter with the Makkans, in the desert outside the main

entrance to Makkah. He told him that the Makkans had stopped him and warned him about Muhammad
(pbuh). He then asked Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) about his mission and about the words he had recited in
salah.
The prophet (pbuh) explained to him that he was a prophet of Allah and that the verses he had heard were
the words of Allah – the Qu'ran. The prophet (pbuh) recited some more verses of the Qu'ran and Tufayl
accepted Islam. He then went back to his people and tried to propagate Islam. Over a period of years he
was successful in bringing the truth of Islam into the hearts and lives of his tribe.
During this period, Islam became much talked off throughout Arabia. Some spoke of Muhammad (pbuh)
and his preaching in bad terms whilst others spoke of the truth of Islam very highly. Things in Makkah were
certainly getting more difficult for the few Makkans that had accepted Islam. The Makkans considered Islam
to be a threat to their way of life. Anyone who accepted the pure teachings of Islam was becoming a target
for their aggression. They wanted to rid themselves of Islam and this man Muhammad (pbuh) who’s
teaching were a direct threat against their evil practices.
The Makkans wanted to put an end to these teachings: an end to Muhammad (pbuh) and to the people
who had accepted Islam and now believed and worshipped only one God! They wanted to finish off Islam
and its followers….
12. PERSECUTION OF THE MUSLIMS

The Arabs had now fully realised that they could not beat Muhammad (pbuh). There was no way they could
withstand the power and eloquence of this message he brought. The message of truth stood clear in the
midst of falsehood. Anyone who heard the message and met with Muhammad (pbuh) knew that it was the
truth. Even the Makkans knew that it was the truth but they stubbornly wanted to hold onto the religion of
their forefathers.
They had tried many times to stop the prophet (pbuh) from preaching this message but had failed. They
had already used many under-hand tactics to try and discredit Islam. They tried to defame the Muslims and
their beloved Prophet (pbuh); they mocked the Muslim religious scripture and its teachings. Everything they
tried so far had proven to be a failure. They were desperate to come up with something more decisive that
would rid them of this religion.
They would try and discredit the Muslims and Islam. The Muslims became the main target for their mockery
and lies. They would attack the Prophet (pbuh) by calling him a liar or saying he was possessed by a Jinn!
Sometimes they would say Muhammad (pbuh) had gone insane! They would ridicule the Qu'ran saying that
someone taught Muhammad (pbuh) this Qu'ran; or that the Qu'ran was just sorcery and magic: or that
Muhammad (pbuh) was just telling old stories. They would distort his teachings to make Islam look

nonsensical or ambiguous. They would even try to harm our beloved Muhammad (pbuh) by pushing him
and tripping him whenever he passed by.
The Makkans now looked at Muhammad (pbuh) with hatred and with evil intentions. They would meet
together to plan new ways they could attack the Prophet (pbuh) and the Muslims. They would look for
opportunities where they could attack the Muhammad (pbuh), whether verbally or physically.
They knew that the Qu'ran was the message of truth that no human could ever write such a masterpiece of
perfection, wisdom and beauty. They also knew that the Qu'ran taught truth and its message was pure and
could only be from Allah. The truth stands clear from falsehood. They knew the character of the prophet
(pbuh), his good manners and trustworthiness. They knew that he was an example to them all even before
he became a prophet (pbuh). They were sometimes ashamed at making up these lies about the prophet
(pbuh) and ridiculing him, his character and mission.
The early converts also suffered greatly at the hands of the Makkans but were always true to their faith.
They remained steadfast against this hardship and persecution. They remained faithful to the messenger
and Allah’s Deen, always testifying to the Oneness of Allah and rejecting the idols. The Makkans wanted the
Muslims to stop worshipping Allah and to return to idol worship. They would try and force the Muslims to
leave Islam but the Muslims continued to follow the Truth.
Many of the early converts were poor and without any great status amongst the Arabs. Many did not have
a powerful tribe to offer them protection so were an easy target for the Arabs to attack. In many cases,
they were tortured and shamefully treated through which some Muslims died!
The Makkans realised that their attacks on the prophet (pbuh) were ineffective especially since he was
guaranteed protection from his uncle Abu Talib. However, many of the converts did not have any
protection from anyone so were vulnerable. They exploited this with a new wave of violence and barbarism
against these Muslims. Abu Lahab was leading this committee of prominent Makkans who formed a
resistance against the Muslims. They wanted to dissuade as many Muslims from following Islam, by any
means possible. They were intent on destroying Islam and to cause so much misery to the Muslims that
they would abandon their faith! The persecutions worsened, so much so that the prophet (pbuh) asked
some of the new converts to keep their conversion secret.
Bilal was the slave of Omaiyah bin Khalaf. When Omaiyah found out about Bilal's acceptance of Islam, he
began to beat and torture him severely. Often a rope was put around Bilal's neck and they would drag him
through the streets and hills of Makkah. At times they would starve him and he became very weak. At
others he was bound up, made to lie down on the burning sand, under the crushing weight of heavy stones.

Thy tried their hardest to force Bilal to leave Islam but they were unsuccessful. Bilal was strong in his belief
in the Oneness of Allah. Even under the severest persecutions, the words Ahad, Ahad were repeated by
Bilal. On one such occasion, Abu Bakr came across the suffering and ill-treatment of Bilal. Abu Bakr
immediately purchased Bilal and freed him from slavery.
Ammar bin Yasir, a freed slave of Bani Makhzum, along with his mother and father, embraced Islam in its
early stages. They were repeatedly made to lie on the burning sand and were beaten very badly. Ammar
was at times tossed up on hot embers. The Prophet (pbuh) was saddened greatly by this harsh treatment
and always comforted them and raised his hand in prayer and said: "Be patient, you will verily find your
abode in the Paradise." His father, Yasir, died because of repeated tortures. His Mother, Sumaiyah, was
bayoneted to death by Abu Jahl himself. Sumaiyah was the first woman martyred in Islam.
Ammar himself was subjected to torture and was always threatened to sustain severe suffering unless he
abused Muhammad (pbuh) and accepted their idols. In a weak moment, he said some word but his heart
never wavered. He came once to the Prophet (pbuh), who consoled him for his pain and confirmed his
faith. Some verses from the Qu'ran came down saying that if a person has faith in his heart but is forced to
denounce Islam, his Iman is still safe.
Abu Fakeeh, Aflah, a freed slave of Bani ‘Abd Ad-Dar was the third of those helpless victims. The oppressors
used to fasten his feet with a rope and drag him in the streets of Makkah.
Khabbab bin Al-Aritt was also an easy victim to similar outrages on every possible occasion. He experienced
extreme torture and maltreatment. The Makkans used to pull his hair and twist his neck, and made him lie
on burning coal with a big rock on his chest to prevent him from escaping. Many Muslims were tortured in
the same way causing much harm and sadness within the community. For some, their lives became so
unbearable that they were commanded later to do Hijra to safety in Abyssinia
Not even the prophet (pbuh) was spared from their evil. The prophet’s daughters Ruqaiya and Umm
Kulthum were both married to the sons of Abu Lahab. Abu Lahab ordered both of his sons to divorce their
wives and sent them back to the prophet (pbuh). The Prophet (pbuh) was very sad when this happened. His
uncle had been so happy when the marriage of his sons had taken place to the daughters of Muhammad.
Hatred and spite had caused Abu Lahab to force his son’s to leave their wives. Abu Lahab was also happy
when the prophet’s son died even though the prophet’s household was so sad.
The prophet (pbuh) was abused even in Makkah, in the Sanctuary – the area in and around the Ka'bah.
Even when the prophet (pbuh) was praying he was attacked or mocked. There are many records of the
verbal and physical abuse against the prophet (pbuh) but the prophet still remained faithful to his mission

and deen.
The wife of Abu Lahab, Umm Jameel bint Harb, the sister of Abu Sufyan, used to tie bundles of thorns and
would throw them in the paths which the Prophet (pbuh) would take. She wanted the prophet (pbuh) to
get injured by this. She was an enemy of the Prophet (pbuh) and had great hatred for him. Once she took a
handful of pebbles to the sanctuary where the prophet (pbuh) and Abu Bakr were sitting. She had the
intention of hurting the prophet (pbuh) but Allah took away her sight so that she could not see the prophet
(pbuh). She only saw Abu Bakr, who happened to be sitting next to the prophet (pbuh). She went over to
him and said some abusive things before going.
In amongst all this hatred and persecution, there was one individual who’s heart was in turmoil. Umar, the
son of Khattab, had a great hatred for this new religion and used to attack and persecute the Muslims. At
the same time he was also greatly impressed and intrigued with these Muslims who were so greatly
devoted to their beliefs and prophet (pbuh). He could not tolerate anyone who went against their ancestors
and their way of life so was a great and much feared enemy of Islam. Nevertheless, he continued to be an
enemy of the Muslims
In the Oasis of Yathrib, the events were looked at in much intrigue. The Jews and the Arabs were constantly
squabbling amongst each other. There were many battles fought which would last for years. The Arabs
considered the Jews to be gypsies who travelled around without any ancestry and deep-seated roots. The
Jews, on the other hand, considered themselves to be superior and look down on these idol worshipping
Arabs, especially since the Jews were the chosen people.
The Jews use to warn the Arabs that a prophet would come with the message of truth and he will destroy
the idol worshippers. He will confirm the oneness of Allah and the Day of Judgment when man will be
brought back to life. Many of the Jews had moved near Yathrib waiting for this prophet that had been
foretold in their books. as the events in Makkah unfolded, there was keen interest on both sides –
especially because this prophet preaching the oneness of Allah was an Arab!
As things were getting worse for the Muslims but something was about to happen which would make the
Arabs more determined to wipe out Islam from the face of this Earth.
13. HIJRA TO ABYSSINIA (ETHIOPIA)

The Makkans were relentless in their persecution of the Muslims and in the persecution of our beloved
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They left no stone unturned in slandering, defaming and injuring
the Prophet (pbuh). They tried their best to harm him and to destroy his mission. Abu Lahab, their leader,
encouraged others to carry out these evil actions and stood against the prophet (pbuh) throughout the
prophet’s mission in Makkah. He was against Islam and did his best to eradicate it from Makkah.

The slaves that had accepted Islam and the Muslims that were poor suffered the most at the hands of the
Makkans. Many had been martyred whilst others were subject to different forms of abuse and
mistreatment. Some of the Muslim’s lives became miserable and they suffered terribly but they continued
to observe patience and follow Islam wholeheartedly. Nothing was going to cause them to turn their backs
to the truth.
After so much suffering at the hands of the Makkans, the prophet (pbuh) commanded a small group of
Muslims to make the Hijra to a safe place in the country of Abyssinia. It was a Christian county, which was
ruled by a just and fair king, whose title was Negus. They were sure to receive protection and peace there.
The Muslims only wanted to get away from this persecution and to worship and live in peace. All the
planning was kept secret because the Makkans kept a close eye on the activities of the Muslims.
The group of Muslims, who were going to leave for Abyssinia, consisted of sixteen people, which included
twelve men and four women. Uthman bin Affan was also part of this group along with his wife Ruqaiyah
(the prophet's daughter). When the Makkans found out, they tried to chase the small group of Muslims
who had left Makkah the night before. On arrival at the port of Shu’aibah, the Muslims had seen that a ship
was ready to leave the port and they managed to get on it. The Makkans were too late and became very
angry that these Muslims had managed to escape from their evil grasp. They remained more vigilant in the
future.
Their anger at the Muslims escaping was turned against the remaining Muslims and many hardships came
upon the Muslims. The Makkans increased their barbaric treatment of the believers, especially the weak
and the helpless Muslims. They were further enraged when they found out that that the escaped Muslims
were getting well treated in Abyssinia and hadn’t been expelled as the Makkans had hoped.
The Prophet (pbuh) commanded another group of Muslims to make Hijra to Abyssinia but this time the
group was much larger consisting of one hundred and two (or so) Muslims. This time there were two
additional factors the Muslims had to deal with. Firstly, the Makkans were watching the Muslims very
carefully and they would notice if something unusual was happening. Secondly, this group was a lot bigger
so it would be more difficult for them to move quickly from one place to another.
However, by the will of Allah, the Muslims managed to escape from the watchful eyes of the Makkans and
made it safely to Abyssinia. The Makkans were mad with anger and decided that they would send a small
group of negotiators to bring back these Muslims. They would go to the Negus and explain to him that the
Muslims had forsaken the religion of their forefathers. They would demand that the Muslims be returned to
Arabia and the Makkans be allowed to deal with them.

The Makkans sent two of their top people, Amr bin Al-as and Abdullah bin Abi Rabia, who took expensive
gifts with them. They wanted to dazzle and bribe the Negus so that he would release these Muslims. The
two Makkan envoys travelled to Abyssinia and spoke to the Negus. They explained that these Muslims had
left the religion of their forefathers and they asked Negus to return them to the Makkans.
The king summoned the Muslims to the court and asked them to explain the teachings of their religion The
Muslims were not scared of anything, they had the truth and they would stand by the truth. Ja‘far bin Abi
Talib stood up and explained to the Negus about the situation of the Arabs before the divine guidance came
from Allah. He said that in the past, they had been acting out of ignorance by worshipping Idols and
carrying out many bad actions. They had neglected their responsibilities to their fellow man, neighbour and
orphans. They had complete forsaken justice, compassion and charity. They had forgotten all the good
characteristics of a human being such as truth, honesty and piety. They had neglected all forms of justice
and the strongest oppressed and ruled over the weak.
Jafar then explained to the Negus about the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his pure message which
invited mankind to worship only Allah and to leave all forms of idol worship. The Prophet (PBUH) had
encouraged them to always speak the truth; to be faithful to their trusts and promises; to be merciful and
just in their dealings with others and to respect the rights of their fellow human beings. The Prophet (pbuh)
had also forbade them to speak evil of women and ordered them to look after the welfare of the orphans.
He further explained that the prophet (pbuh) had ordered them to keep away from all evil acts and instead
offer prayers, give charity, and to observe fasting.
Jafar told the Negus they had accepted this noble person as the Prophet of Allah and had followed his
teachings. It was for this reason the Makkans had attacked and persecuted them and it was for this reason
the Muslims had left Makkah. The Negus was satisfied with their answers.
The two envoys decided on a new plan. They went to the Negus saying that Muslims spoke ill of Jesus. The
Negus called the Muslims and questioned them regarding what their religion said about Jesus. Jafar recited
some verses of the Qu'ran from Surah Maryam, which teaches us about the miraculous birth of Jesus and
the status of Jesus in Islam. The Negus was again impressed and was moved to tears that rolled down his
cheeks. He knew in his heart that this was indeed the truth and was moved by the beautiful verses of the
Qu'ran
The Negus exclaimed: "It seems as if these words and those which were revealed to Jesus are the rays of
light which have radiated from the same source." He then turned to the two envoys from Makkah and told
them to leave; the Muslims could stay in Abyssinia as long as they wished. The gifts were returned to the
two envoys and they were told to return to Makkah.

The Makkans were shocked at the developments in Abyssinia – they had expected their envoys to be more
successful but instead the Negus became more tolerant and respectful to the Muslims. There are some
sources that say that Negus actually accepted Islam. History tell us that he kept his conversion to Islam a
secret because some of his bishops would oppose him.
The Makkans had seen so much unfold before their very eyes but still many of them remained stubbornly
against Islam. They made attempts to pressurize Abu Talib, the Prophet's uncle, by asking him to withdraw
his support for Muhammad (pbuh). Abu Talib refused their requests and continued to support Muhammad
(pbuh), even though Abu Talib did not accept Islam. Abu Talib loved and respected Muhammad (pbuh) very
much and never withdrew his support for Muhammad (pbuh) during his lifetime.
There had been numerous incidences where Abu Lahab and the Makkans had mocked and spoke ill of the
prophet (pbuh). There are still more incidences where Abu Lahab himself created a nuisance to the prophet
(pbuh). These shameful acts include throwing things at the prophet (pbuh) when he was praying. They
would also throw rubbish inside the food they were preparing or had already prepared. However,
Muhammad (pbuh) did not resort to violence or acted in the same disrespectful way.
One such incident that took place was when the Prophet (pbuh) was praying at the Ka'bah. A group of
Makkans got together and put the intestines of a camel on the Prophet’s back when he was doing sajdah.
The prophet (pbuh) could not move and remained like this whilst the Makkans celebrated and laughed at
this incident. Fatima, the beloved daughter of our Prophet (pbuh) came and removed it from his back. The
prophet (pbuh) then made a dua against these seven people, saying that may Allah punish them for this evil
action. In the battle of Badr, all seven of them were killed in the battlefield and their bodies were seen after
the battle.
In another incident, Abu Lahab tried to injure the prophet (pbuh) in the sanctuary of the Ka'bah. Abu Lahab
swore that he would rub the prophet’s face in the dust when the prophet (pbuh) came to pray. He intended
to put his foot on the neck of our beloved prophet (pbuh) and force it into the sand as he performed the
sajdah. Just then the prophet (pbuh) came into the sanctuary and began to pray. With his friends watching
Abu Lahab went forward to attack the prophet (pbuh). Suddenly Abu Lahab turned back, as if running from
something. His colleagues were puzzled and asked him what happened. Abu Lahab said that there was a
ditch of fire between the prophet (pbuh) and him and there was something after him so he ran away!
A third incident worth mentioning is when the prophet (pbuh) was at the sanctuary. It was in the fifth year
of prophethood and the Muslims at this point were suffering many hardships. The Makkans were getting
bolder with their attacks against the Muslims. This particular attack was by Abu Jahl who hurled abuse at
the prophet (pbuh) and then attacked him with a stone. The prophet (pbuh) did not retaliate against him

and instead returned from the sanctuary. However, much to the dismay of the Makkans, they paid very
heavily for this assault upon the Prophet (pbuh).
14. HAMZAH AND UMAR ACCEPT ISLAM

The Muslims had been made to suffer by the Makkans. The prophet (phuh) had made the decision to let
some of the Muslims make a Hijra to Abyssinia. These Muslims had suffered terribly and at least in
Abyssinia they would be safe from harm and trouble. Some of the Muslims had kept their acceptance of
Islam a secret so that they would not suffer any abuse from the Makkans.
The prophet Muhammad (pbuh) himself had been defamed and injured by the Makkans. They had even
tried to kill him. They had tried to bribe him so that he would leave his mission. They offered to make him
the king or the richest man in Arabia if he left his mission. Muhammad (pbuh) refused all their offers,
continued his mission and remained dedicated to Islam. Throughout all this turmoil, the Muslims also
remained patient and were steadfast on the path of truth.
Muhammad (pbuh) himself continued to preach the message of Islam to the people, whether openly or in
secret. He kept inviting people to the worship of the one God and to worship nothing besides Allah.
Muhammad (pbuh) would often pray openly at the Ka'bahand hence was a target for the Makkans. Even
here they would attack the prophet (pbuh) or try to abuse and ridicule him.
They had even approached the Prophet’s uncle Abu Talib and offered to do a trade with him. They had
offered him a youth, who would look after him and whom he could adopt as his own son. They wanted to
exchange him for Muhammad (pbuh) so that they could kill him. Abu Talib was furious with them. He said,”
It is really an unfair bargain. You give me your son to bring him up and I give you my son to be murdered! By
Allah, it is something incredible!" The Makkans explained to Abu Talib that they were doing him a favour by
getting rid of Muhammad (pbuh) who was becoming a problem for the community. Abu Talib sent them
away in disgust and told them to do what they want.
Once they tried to kill the prophet (pbuh) at the Ka'bah. Muhammad (pbuh) was at the Ka'bahwhen Uqbah
bin Al-Mu‘ait came forward towards the prophet (pbuh). When Muhammad (pbuh) was engaged in prayer,
Uqbah took his cloak and tried to strangle the prophet (pbuh). It was only when Abu Bakr intervened by
pushing Uqbah away from the prophet that the strangling stopped. Abu Bakr then exclaimed, “Do you wish
to kill someone because he is asking you to worship Allah!” Abu Bakr was immediately attacked and
sustained terrible injuries in this incident.
Another incident, as mentioned in the last seerah, was when Abu Jahl attacked and abused the prophet
(pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) was sitting on one of the hillocks of Safa when Abu Jahl approached him and
started shouting and using bad language towards him. Muhammad (pbuh) remained quiet and did not

retaliate. Abu Jahl took a rock and started attacking Muhammad (pbuh), causing him to bleed. Muhammad
(pbuh) again did not retaliate and Abu Jahl proceeded to the Ka'bahto his waiting friends. Unknown to
them the whole incident was witnessed by the slave girl of Abdullah bin Jada‘an.
As it so happened Hamzah, the prophet's uncle, was returning from a hunting trip and it was his habit that
on return he would go straight to the Ka'bahand offer prayers. He was moving towards the Ka'bah, with his
bow still strung on his shoulder, when the slave girl approached him and told him the whole incident. She
told him how Abu Jahl had abused his nephew with vile language and then attacked him with a rock.
Hamzah had grown up near Muhammad (pbuh) and knew his kind and generous nature. He was angry that
someone should speak and attack him is such an unjust and vicious manner. He strode to the Ka'bahwhere
Abu Jahl was sitting with his friends. He went upto them and struck his bow across Abu Jahl’s head. The
people around him were astonished that Hamzah would do such a thing. Hamzah then said “"You have
been abusing Muhammad (pbuh); I too follow his religion and profess what he preaches."
Abu Jahl’s companions were ready to come to his rescue and fight with Hamzah but Abu Jahl stopped them.
Abu Jahl said “I indeed did speak shamelessly to Muhammad (pbuh).” Even Abu Jahl knew that he was
being unjust towards Muhammad (pbuh) and that this type of behaviour towards a fellow human being was
unacceptable. He knew he was in the wrong and that Hamzah was justified in defending Muhammad
(pbuh).
The Makkans were especially upset because Hamzah had become a Muslim. Hamzah had always been
respected by the Makkans and was considered by everyone as a brave and honourable person. Although
Hamzah did not know much about Islam, very soon he learned about Islam and wholeheartedly accepted
Islam. He became a very pious and dedicated Muslim. He was a greatly loved companion of the prophet
(pbuh).
It was also about this same time that Umar bin Khattab was in turmoil. He was one of the stern opposition
to the Muslims, in fact he used to harm the Muslims and cause them much suffering. Umar was intelligent
and wise as well as being considered very brave and strong amongst all the Arabs. People would tremble at
the name of Umar. Umar hated the Muslims because they brought something different to what their
forefathers worshipped. He thought that their forefathers could not be wrong and that the Muslims were
creating annoyance as well as division within the Makkan community.
At the same time, Umar was impressed how the Muslims were steadfast and dedicated to their beliefs. He
alone had metered out much punishment and pain to the Muslims but they would never leave their
religion. They would always cling onto this belief in the one god as well as love and respect for their beloved

prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He was torn between the two worlds but continued to be an open enemy of
the Muslims and a very active enemy at that.
Umar one day was very upset. In fact he was angry, he saw what was happening to the community with the
divisions caused by the new religion. He decided to end it here and the quickest way, he thought, was by
killing the prophet (pbuh). He got his sword and started heading out to find the prophet (pbuh). When the
people saw Umar with his sword out, they knew that someone was in for trouble and everyone avoided
Umar.
On the way, Umar met a friend of his; by the name Nu‘aim bin Abdullah. Nu’aim asked him where he was
going with this unsheathed sword. Umar said furiously, “I am going to kill that man Muhammad (pbuh).”
Umar was furious at the divisions that the new religion had caused within his community and was in no
mood to talk. Nu’aim reasoned with him that why are you going to kill Muhammad (pbuh), which will cause
more problems within the community. Banu ‘Abd Munaf would attack you and this will lead to further
bloodshed. Why don’t you sort your own family out first? Both your sister and brother in law have accepted
Islam and left the religion of your forefathers!
When Umar heard this, he headed straight for his sister’s house. Nu’aim was actually defending
Muhammad (pbuh) from this enraged Umar by sending him elsewhere. as it so happened, Umar's sister
Fatima and her husband were studying the Qu'ran from Khabab.
When they heard someone approaching, Khabab hid and Fatima hid the pages of the Qu'ran they were
reading from. Umar had over heard something being read and pounded on the door. Fatima answered the
door and Umar immediately asked her what she was reading. He then continued to relay the information
that Nu’aim had given them that they had both accepted Islam. Fatima denied everything and Umar
became angry and started beating his sister and brother in law. Umar was maddened with rage at both of
them and caused them both to be injured.
Both Fatima and her husband then said, "Yes, we are Muslims, we believe in Allah and His Messenger
Muhammad (pbuh) so do what you will." When Umar saw the state of his bleeding sister, he was touched
with remorse and his anger went away. He said,” I was only wanting to know what you were reading.” His
sister then explained to Umar that this was the Qu'ran, the message that Muhammad was sent with. Umar
wanted to read these verses but his sister refused him saying that he could not touch them because he was
not clean.
Umar went and had a bath then read the verses from the Qu'ran. He immediately was touched by the
beauty, elegance and wisdom of these verses. He knew that these verses were far superior to anything he
had heard and this could only be from Allah, no man could write this. At this point he knew that Islam was

the truth and that his forefathers had indeed been misguided.
Khabab could not contain himself with the changed Umar and came out of hiding. He told them that he had
heard the prophet do a dua that may Allah strengthen Islam either with Abu Jahl or Umar bin Khattab. It
seemed that the prayer was going to be answered.
Umar then left his sister’s house and set off to find Muhammad (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) was in a
religious meeting in a house in Safa. Here the prophet (pbuh) was teaching the Muslims when they heard a
knock on the door. The Muslims went over to the door and looked through the cracks. They noticed Umar
with his sword unsheathed and dreaded what could happen. Hamzah was also there and he said: "Let him
in, as a friend he is welcome. as an enemy, he will have his head cut off with his own sword."
Muhammad (pbuh) then commanded his companions to open the door and let him in. When Umar
entered, Muhammad (pbuh) grabbed him by his garments and shook him, asking him why he had come.
Umar explained: "O Messenger of Allah (pbuh), I come to you in order to believe in Allah and his Messenger
and that which he has brought from his Lord." All the Muslims rejoiced at this good news and cried aloud:
‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is Great), which could be heard at the Ka'bah.
One of the main effects of Umar accepting Islam was that the Muslims could now worship in the open.
Umar insisted that since Islam is the right way then surely they should not hide and worship Allah. Instead,
they should be allowed to worship in the open without any hindrance from the Makkans. From that day
onwards the Muslims were able to pray in the open.
When the Makkans found out that Umar too had accepted Islam, just three days after Hamzah, they were
very upset. When the Muslims began to worship Allah in the open there was an uneasy atmosphere and
the Makkans knew that things were a bit more serious. The Makkans took things a lot more serious now
and they were intending to get rid of the Prophet (pbuh) and his followers once and for all.
The Makkans got together for a meeting in which to decide how best they could irradiate Islam; they would
not take things lightly anymore. They had tried everything and had very little success. They wanted to give
one final, decisive blow that would finish off the Muslims. In this meeting they formulated a new plan that
only the worst of humans could carry out, especially since it was against their own family and tribesmen.
That’s for next week, Inshallah.
15. NEGOTIATIONS
The Makkans had tried many times to conquer the Muslims and force them to reject Islam. The Makkans
wanted Islam to be eradicated from their society. In the past, the Makkans had been unsuccessful in all
their attempts to finish Islam and but they remained hopeful. The Muslims always remained steadfast to

Islam and would not behave badly nor fight with the Makkans. The Makkans on the other hand treated the
Muslims badly and were very unjust towards them.
Abu Talib supported his nephew and gave him protection from the Makkans. The Makkans knew that if
they harmed Muhammad (pbuh), they would need to face Abu Talib and his family (Bani Hashim). The
Makkans tried many times to apply pressure on Abu Talib hoping he would remove his protection of
Muhammad (pbuh). Every time they tried this tactic, Abu Talib rejected their offer and remained faithful to
his nephew.
They also tried to tackle the ‘problem’ by approaching Muhammad (pbuh) directly. In one such incident,
they tried to make a deal with Muhammad (pbuh) so that they could compromise in idol worship. The
Makkans proposed that everyone should worship Allah one year and the following year everyone should
worship the idols. The Makkans didn’t truly understand the concept of Tawheed – the belief in the one
Supreme, all powerful creator. Their proposal went against the basics of all true religions. The fact that
there is only one God can never be compromised. Surah Kafiroon was revealed which explicitly told the
Makkans this. The prophet (pbuh) rejected their proposal and would not compromise the first pillar of
Islam.
Once Utbah bin Rabi'a was in a meeting with the Makkans and they decided that Utbah should reason with
Muhammad (pbuh). Utbah was a good talker and they thought that he would be able to win Muhammad
(pbuh) over. Utbah left the meeting and went to speak to Muhammad (pbuh) whilst the Makkans eagerly
awaited his return. They were hopeful that Utbah could persuade Muhammad (pbuh) to leave Islam.
Utbah spoke to Muhammad (pbuh) about the effect the new religion was having on the Makkan society.
Utbah said that families were getting divided with some members of the family accepting Islam and others
rejecting it. Utbah said Muhammad’s message was against idol worship that meant everyone who
worshipped idols was wrong. He said the Makkans would never accept their forefathers as being wrong! He
insisted that the only way these problems in the Makkan society could be resolved is if Muhammad
stopped preaching Islam!
After speaking for a while, he put forward three offers which had the condition that Muhammad (pbuh)
must stop preaching Islam. If Muhammad (pbuh) wanted wealth, the Makkans were prepared to make
Muhammad (pbuh) the richest man in all Makkah. If Muhammad (pbuh) wanted power then they would
make him their king and would obey his commands. If Muhammad (pbuh) was possessed by a jinn then
they would spend all their wealth to cure him. All he had to do in return was stop preaching Islam!
as a reply, Muhammad (pbuh) recited some verses of the Qu'ran and Utbah listened to him with great
interest. After hearing the reply he left the company of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and went to the

waiting Makkans. When the Makkans saw Utbah's face, they were sure something important had been
achieved. Utbah told them about his conversation with Muhammad (pbuh) and told them that the best
advice was to leave Muhammad (pbuh) alone.
He said that from his words and actions, Muhammad (pbuh) was neither a liar nor possessed by a Jinn. He
advised that if the Makkans were not prepared to follow Muhammad (pbuh) then they should leave him
alone. If Muhammad (pbuh) fails in his mission then the rest of the Arabs would kill Muhammad (pbuh).
This would save the Makkans any problems with Abu Talib and would prevent bloodshed in Makkah.
However, if Muhammad (pbuh) succeeds in his mission then the Makkans would also be able to enjoy and
share this success and power.
The Makkans were annoyed with Utbah and expressed their disappointment. They had hoped that Utbah
would have been able to bribe Muhammad (pbuh) so that he would no longer preach Islam. They
disregarded all the advice Utbah had given and decided that they would speak to Muhammad (pbuh) on
their own.
Later the Makkans met the prophet (pbuh) and made similar proposals. The Prophet (pbuh) rejected all
their offers saying that he was just a messenger and the Makkans can only be successful if they accepted
the message. The Makkans then taunted the prophet (pbuh) and asked him to perform miracles like move
mountains, flatten the city of Makkah or make an angel appear so that they could question it personally.
Muhammad (pbuh) explained to them that he did not have power to do these things and that he was
simply a messenger. If Allah wanted to do these things then it is entirely up to Allah. The Makkans then
argued more with the prophet (pbuh) and spoke to him in unkind words. The Makkans and Muhammad
(pbuh) then parted company.
As the Makkans sat down and talked about the discussion with the Prophet (pbuh), Abu Jahl said that he
would finish it once and for all. He would take a heavy rock and throw it on the prophet (pbuh) when he
was in sajdah. This way Muhammad (pbuh) would be no more and the message would also die out.
Abu Jahl decided to put his plan into action. He took a big rock and waited for the prophet (pbuh). When
the prophet (pbuh) came and was in sajdah, Abu Jahl approached him with the big rock. Suddenly, Abu Jahl
dropped the rock he was carrying and ran away as if running away from a fierce animal. They later asked
him about this incident. He told them that he had seen a fierce male camel charging towards him as if it was
going to eat him.
The Makkans were not sure about what they should do. They decided that maybe it would be a better idea

if they went and spoke to the Jews. The Jews also believed in one Allah and maybe they could help them
overcome the Muslims. The Makkans travelled to Yathrib (Madina) where there was quite a large Jewish
community.
The Jews had travelled and settled in Yathrib because their books told them a prophet (pbuh) would come
to this area. The description of the prophet (pbuh) and the place he was coming to was clearly told in their
books. They knew that the prophet (pbuh) would succeed against his enemies and the truth would prevail
over falsehood. The Jews thought that they would join the prophet (pbuh) and would over come the rest of
the Arabs.
The Jews were quite interested in the events in Makkah. They had heard about this man Muhammad
(pbuh) who claimed to be a prophet. They were not sure if he was a prophet but were following the
developments closely. However, the Jews had assumed that the prophet would be from the Jews and not
from the Arabs. The Bible had actually told the Jews the prophet would be from their cousins who are
actually the Arabs. Both the Jews and the Arabs are decedents of Prophet Ibrahim (as) - one through Ismael
and one through Ishaq.
The Makkans travelled to Yathrib and spoke to the Jewish learned scholars. The Jews told them that they
should go and ask the prophet about three things. After they had got the answers from Muhammad (pbuh)
they should come back to them. Only a true prophet would be able to answer these questions properly.
These three questions were about the story of the youths who left their people (people of the caves); about
the great traveller who travelled to the edges of the earth (Dhu l-Qarnayn) and about the soul.
The Makkans returned to Makkah and went to ask these three questions to the Prophet (pbuh). Whenever
an incident or question came, Allah would send down revelation that would answer that particular question
or problem. These answers came in the form of verses or Surahs that are always true revelation. The
prophet (pbuh) told the Makkans that he would give them the answer tomorrow. The prophet (pbuh)
thought that Allah would send him the revelation soon and he could give the answer the next day.
The next day came and the revelation had not come. The prophet was surprised and again told the
Makkans to return the following day. The Prophet (pbuh) was waiting for the revelation to come down with
the answers. This continued for a few days and everyone got worried. The Makkans started to laugh and
joke at the prophet (pbuh) because the revelation had not come. They thought he did not know the
answers and they had finally caught him out.
Finally, the revelation came down and answered the three questions. Not only did it answer the questions it
gave a lot more information which proved that Islam was the truth. The Makkans then went and told them
Rabbis who confirmed that these answers were true and only a prophet could know this information.

The Makkans that were laughing and joking at Muhammad (pbuh) now remained quiet. The people that did
not believe in Muhammad (pbuh) were now assured that he was a true prophet. The Muslims who did not
have any doubt in the Qu'ran and the Prophet (pbuh) were pleased with the whole outcome.
The reason that Allah had not granted the revelation straight away was because Muhammad (pbuh) said
that the revelation would come the next day but did not say the word ‘inshallah’. This was a valuable lesson
to all the Muslims. Whenever we do something we should always say Inshallah, which means if Allah wills.
This was also proof for the people that Muhammad (pbuh) did not make things up or spoke his own
opinion. He would have answered the questions himself and not waited for revelation to come down. The
Makkans knew that Muhammad (pbuh) was a prophet, only a prophet could answer these questions. The
Jews also knew that there was a prophet in Makkah because the Makkans had come back with answers that
only a prophet could give.
In Yathrib, the word had reached the Jews that there was a prophet in Makkah who had just passed their
test. The Jews would warn the Arabs in Yathrib saying “Wait till the prophet comes he will sort you out!”
The Jews and Arabs would have problems with each other and there would be many arguments and fights.
The two main Arab tribes were the Aws and Khazraj who would often fight amongst themselves.
This incident marked the last of the negotiation and a new phase was ready to begin. The Makkans knew
that now was the time to take more direct action against the Muslims, the Makkans that supported them
and the Bani Hashim and Bani Al-Mutallib. This action was also directed against the elderly Abu Talib who
had protected the prophet (pbuh). The Makkans would fall to new levels of barbarism and injustice to stop
the spread of Islam.
16. THE TERRIBLE BOYCOTT

The Makkans were very angry and concerned about the situation that had developed. Especially since
Hamzah and Umar had joined the ranks of the Muslims by accepting Islam. They were both important and
respected members of the community and this had strengthened the cause of Islam. No matter what the
Makkans had tried in the past, the Muslims were slowly increasing in number as its message began to reach
more people.
The Makkans had already tried to negotiate with the prophet (pbuh) and had failed every time. They had
offered to make Muhammad (pbuh) their king or a very rich man but Muhammad (pbuh) had refused them.
Instead the prophet (pbuh) had proposed that they only worship Allah and leave idol worship. The prophet
(pbuh) explained to them that this was the path of righteousness. The Makkans had refused him saying that

they would prefer to follow their forefathers!
Abu Talib, the prophet’s uncle, had been offering Muhammad (pbuh) his support and protection. They had
many meetings with Abu Talib, trying to win him over. They had tried to negotiate and bargain with Abu
Talib but he had also refused their offers. In fact, Abu Talib was often angry with the offers they made
because they were so unjust. Abu Talib may not have been a Muslim but he loved and respected his
nephew Muhammad (pbuh).
The Makkans had realised that Islam wasn’t going to be easy to subdue. They decided on one last attempt
to finish off the Muslims and their supporters. The Makkans decided they should now break all
communication with the Muslims and boycott them. They would boycott the Muslims, Bani Mutallib and
Banu Hashim with the exception of Abu Lahab. Although Abu Lahab was the prophet's uncle, he was also
one of his greatest enemies and therefore wasn’t included in the boycott.
All the leaders of the Makkans got together and decided to enforce a boycott of the Muslims and their
supporters. No one was allowed to have any sort of dealings with them. There would be no inter-marriage,
no buying and selling, no business dealings and no socializing. In fact, no one would be allowed to speak to
them as far as it was possible. They would also prevent any traders that came to Makkah from dealing with
the Muslims and their supporters.
All their Makkan nobles got together at Wadi Al-Muhassab and wrote out an agreement. This agreement
started with ‘In the name of Allah’ and then continued to lay down the exact details of the boycott. They
then got all the leaders to sign this agreement so that they were all obliged to stick to the treaty. The
Makkans then took this document and hung it on one of the walls inside the Ka'bah. The Makkans said that
they would only cancel this treaty when Muhammad (pbuh) was handed over to them to be killed.
Abu Talib was very concerned about the events unfolding and decided to take action himself. He saw the
situation moving from bad to worse, especially since the attacks on the prophet (pbuh) were getting worse.
In the past there had been a little bit of bad feeling towards the Muslims by the Makkans. Now the
Makkans were openly hostile to the Muslims and their beloved prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Abu Talib
gathered together all his tribe and family and moved to a narrow valley which became known as Shi’b Abu
Talib. This group of Muslims and Abu Talib’s clansmen moved to this valley and lived there for a period of
three years. The Muslims during this period were in a very bad state.
There was no trade between the Muslims and the Makkans so the money and food began to run out. It
came to a stage that the state of the Muslims was so bad that the cries of hungry children suffering were
heard constantly in this valley. Any little food the Muslims had would be shared amongst themselves, which
wasn’t enough to satisfy anyone. In some cases the Muslims had to resort to eating the leaves of trees and

the skins of animals to survive.
The Makkans tried their best to cut off the Muslims completely. Whenever any traders came to Makkah
and the Muslims tried to buy food, the Makkans would come and offer a much higher price so that the
Muslims could not afford it. The Makkans would warn the traders that trading with the Muslims was not
allowed. Some of the Muslims were already poor and suffered a lot through these hardships.
In some cases, close relatives and friends of the people in the valley smuggled some food in. This food was
in small amounts and would take place late at night so that the Makkans would not find out. However, the
Makkans were always on guard and watching for anyone who was going to break this boycott. Hisham bin
Amr, amongst a few others, would occasionally smuggle a little food to their clansmen in the valley. They
witnessed the awful state of the Muslims and saw the hardships they were going through.
Hashim bin Amr thought the Makkans were unjust in this inhumane boycott. He hoped that the agreement
could be cancelled which would alleviate this suffering his clansmen were exposed to. Some other Makkans
were not as hard-hearted and through compassion would smuggle food to the Muslims. They also
considered this agreement as unjust but were powerless to do anything because their nobles and leaders
had signed it. There was a general feeling amongst a lot of Makkans that this ban should be lifted.
Abu Talib was also concerned about the welfare of his nephew Muhammad (pbuh). He would often swap
places with Muhammad (pbuh) at night in case someone tried to murder him during the night. He was
always vigilant and showed a lot of concern for Muhammad (pbuh) through these testing times.
Muhammad (pbuh) remained courageous and continued his mission. He would go to the Ka'bahand offer
his prayers, even in this hostile environment.
The news got out about the inhumane treatment by the Makkans of their own clansmen. People would talk
about the situation in Makkah and about this man Muhammad (pbuh) with his ‘new’ religion. Many were
curious about Muhammad (pbuh) and why the Makkans were so against it. All over Arabia, the people
talked about the situation in Makkah and it became a major point of discussion and debate.
The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) continued to preach the message of truth in the holy months. In these holy
months the Muslims were a little freer to move around but the boycott itself wasn’t relaxed. In the holy
months there was supposed to be no fighting and the usual persecution would ease off. Muhammad (pbuh)
would invite the people and visitors to Makkah to pray and worship the one and only true god of all
Mankind – Allah. He would tell them that their success was in the worship and dedication to Allah and his
religion. This religion was the same teachings that was brought by all the prophets. The Prophet (pbuh) told
the people that this was their means to success in this life and the hereafter. Some of these words fell on

deaf ears; some people accepted some of these teaching whilst others accepted Islam.
The Makkans tried their best to discredit Muhammad (pbuh) calling him a liar and invented many lies
against him The Makkans were determined that the message was not conveyed to anyone and they worked
endlessly against the prophet (pbuh). Muhammad (pbuh) was undeterred by their activities and continued
his noble mission. He knew that Allah would grant this noble mission success and that it was only a matter
of time.
It was during this period of hardships that a group of five Makkans got together. They had relatives and
friends in the valley. They decided that they would try and change the situation and get the ban lifted. They
were concerned for the well being of their relatives or did not agree with this barbaric behaviour. The group
of five got together and tried to formulate a plan. They knew that it was a formidable task to cancel an
agreement that virtually all of Makkah had agreed to.
One day there was quite a few Makkans at the Ka'bah. The group got together and started talking about the
inhumane nature of this boycott. They began to create a bit of a stir just as Abu Jahl heard the talking and
decided to join in. They began to debate the ban saying that they had not agreed to such a bad thing and
that they should have at least been consulted from the outset. Abu Jahl tried to remedy things saying that
this had already been discussed and an agreement had been made. He suggested that the ban was agreed
by the majority of the leaders and could not be lifted.
Abu Talib was already at the Ka'bahand also overheard the discussion. He came forward and said that he
had heard the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) say that the agreement in the Ka'bahhad been partially
destroyed by ants leaving only the name of Allah. Abu Talib said that he was so sure of the prophet’s words
that he would hand Muhammad (pbuh) over if these words were proven to be incorrect!
The Makkans went into the Ka'bahand when they saw the treaty, they were shocked. The treaty had been
eaten away by the ants, leaving behind only the words “In the name of Allah”. Since the written agreement
between the Makkan leaders was destroyed, the ban could no longer be enforced. The boycott had finally
ended.
The Muslims had suffered immensely through this period of trials and tribulations. They had suffered three
long years of hardship. They were glad that the boycott was finally over and that they could return to their
normal everyday lives. They could resume their trade and make contact with friends and relatives. The
Muslims thanked Allah that this period of trials and tribulations was finally over.
However, as far as the Makkans were concerned, they were still against the Muslims and their hostilities
towards the Muslims were not over. They were also ready to continue where they had left off and would

make the life of the Muslims and their prophet a misery. The prophet (pbuh) knew this and also knew that
Islam would prevail despite the hostile conditions they were in.
Another significant situation was that the health of Abu Talib had deteriorated. He was an old man, over
eighty years of age. He had supported the prophet (pbuh) through all these hardships and had offered his
protection to Muhammad (pbuh). However, these last three years had taken its toll. On return from the
Shi’b Abu Talib, he suffered from illness and weakness. Everyone was concerned for his well-being.
What would happen if this old and compassionate man would pass away and what would happen to the
Muhammad (pbuh) without his support and protection? The Makkans and Muslims waited to see what
would happen over the coming months.
17. THE YEAR OF SADNESS

The Boycott had lasted for a long hard three years during which the Muslims had suffered immensely. Only
when this boycott ended, the Muslims breathed a sigh of relief. This had been a great test for them and
they thanked Allah that this difficult period was over. Things in Makkah began to return to normal in this
tenth year of prophethood.
Abu Talib had suffered greatly through this ordeal. He was already very old and this had taken a great effect
on his health. Shortly after returning from the valley, he became ill and this period of ill health continued
for a few months. The Muslims showed great concern for Abu Talib whom they respected and loved. Abu
Talib was also the only person who had protected the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) against the Makkans.
The Makkans were also concerned for the health of the much-respected Abu Talib.
The Makkans saw that Abu Talib was ill and would take this opportunity to speak about Muhammad and
the problems they were having in Makkah. A group of them, which included Abu Jahl, went to check on the
health of Abu Talib and also to discus the affairs of Makkah. Abu Talib was very ill at this time and the
Prophet (pbuh) was also there to visit him.
Muhammad (pbuh) asked Abu Talib to accept Islam and say the shahadah. Although, Abu Talib was a
generous and kind man; he had protected the prophet (pbuh) and had always been courteous to the
Muslims; he had not accepted Islam even though other members of his family had done so. When
Muhammad (pbuh) encouraged him to accept Islam, Abu Jahl interrupted him saying don’t leave the
religion of your forefathers, don’t leave the religion of Abdul Mutallib!
The Makkans pressed Abu Talib to follow the religion of Idol worship, the religion of their forefathers.
Muhammad (pbuh) was encouraging him to accept Islam by saying the Shahadah. Abu Talib finally accepted

the religion of his forefathers and died as a non-Muslim. The prophet (pbuh) was grieved by this and said
that he would make dua for him and ask Allah to forgive him. He continued this until Allah commanded him
not to.
A verse came down which said to Muhammad that it was not fitting that he should ask for forgiveness for a
non-believer, even though he may be a member of his family. The prophet made dua for Abu Talib, asking
Allah to make his punishment easy in the Hereafter. It was later learned from the Prophet (pbuh) that Allah
had taken Abu Talib from the worst of the fire of hell and had put him in a place where there was less
punishment and torment.
Muhammad (pbuh) was also concerned for his loving wife, Khadija, who also became very ill. She was at the
age of sixty-five now and had been his loving and supporting companion for 25 years. Together they had a
good close family, which included Fatima, the leader of the ladies in paradise. Khadija had loved and
supported Muhammad throughout their marriage and had been by his side through these difficult times.
She was the first person to accept Islam and had full faith in the prophet (pbuh) and in his mission.
Abu Talib had just recently passed away and now Khadija had also passed away, leaving the Prophet (pbuh)
devastated by these great personal losses. He mourned at the death of Khadija and reflected on the times
and memories they shared. He was hurt that he had lost such a dear and loving companion. The Angel
Jibrael informed the prophet (pbuh) that Khadija was in a peaceful place in Paradise. Muhammad (pbuh)
often spoke about her and held her in the highest esteem. The Muslims shared in the grief of the Prophet
(pbuh) and also felt the lost of this wonderful woman.
Muhammad (pbuh) was quiet and remained more in seclusion. He had a mission to fulfil and he slowly
began to preach to the Makkans inviting them to the truth. The response was much more hostile than
before and many of the Makkans refused to listen to him. However, he persevered in his mission and
practiced patience with his people.
Now Muhammad (pbuh) was alone and he was without the protection of his uncle Abu Talib. The Makkans
took this opportunity to attack and persecute the Muslims. They were openly hostile to the Muslims and to
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). In one incident, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) came home with sand in his hair
and on his shoulders. Fatima came rushing to him and wiped away the sand which the Makkans had put on
the prophet (pbuh). Fatima was crying and the prophet (pbuh) comforted her saying, “Don’t worry Allah
will protect you father!”
In the Past the Makkans had held back their aggression, especially against Muhammad. They knew that Abu
Talib would retaliate against them if they harmed the prophet (pbuh). Now that Abu Talib had passed away,
they knew that there was no one to protect Muhammad (pbuh) and they could do as they pleased.

After a short while, the Prophet (pbuh) decided that he would leave the Makkans for a while and try
somewhere else. He thought that maybe in Taif the people would listen to the message and maybe they
would be more likely to accept the truth. Many of the wealthy Makkans owned land in Taif which was a
much more fertile place compared to Makkah. The prophet (pbuh) and his freed slave Zayd set off for Taif
which was about sixty kilometres south of Makkah.
In Taif, the prophet began to speak to the people of Taif. He would tell them about Allah and about the
mission he was appointed with. The people were certainly less hostile but they refused to listen to the
prophet (pbuh). Some were rude and some just turned the prophet (pbuh) away. The prophet (pbuh) spent
ten days there and visited many people. He also visited the nobles of Taif and all of them refused to accept
Islam. Some of them even insulted and mocked the prophet (pbuh) but he continued to talk to people.
In one incident, the prophet (pbuh) met and spoke to three youths from the nobles of Thakif. The prophet
(pbuh) invited them to the truth and to believe and worship Allah alone. They just mocked the prophet
(pbuh) and refused to listen to him. One denied that he could be a prophet because of the disruptions in
the Makkan community. The second questioned him saying could Allah not find anyone else to be a
prophet. The third refused to listen to him at all because either Muhammad (pbuh) was too important to
speak to or was a liar.
Some of the people in Taif tried to chase the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) away; they got together with the
boys in the streets and chased the prophet (pbuh) out of the city. They threw stones at the prophet (pbuh)
and Zayd as they tried to escape from them. Zayd was injured when a stone hit him in the head as he
protected the prophet (pbuh). Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was also injured and blood from his wounds ran
down his legs and clogged up his sandals.
When they had travelled a short distance, they rested against one of the walls of a vineyard. as Muhammad
(pbuh) rested, a couple of Makkans who owned the vineyard recognised Muhammad (pbuh) and took pity
on their state. They sent their servant Addas with some grapes for the two visitors. The prophet (pbuh)
thanked Addas and ate the grapes beginning with the name of Allah. Addas was surprised with these words
and began to talk to the prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
Addas was a Christian slave and when the prophet (pbuh) asked him where he was from, he replied
Nineveh. The prophet (pbuh) said the noble Yunus was from there. Addas was very surprised and asked the
prophet (pbuh) “How do you know about Yunus?” The prophet (pbuh) replied, “He was my brother and I
too am a prophet.”

Addas was very surprised and kissed Muhammad (pbuh) on the hands and forehead before returning to his
duties. The two brothers had witnessed this and they asked Addas about his behaviour. Addas said that that
man leaning against the wall is none other than a prophet. The two brothers shouted at Addas and told him
that he should not leave his religion and follow Muhammad (pbuh). The Makkans were against the prophet
and did not want anyone to follow him.
After a short prayer the prophet (pbuh) made a dua to Allah. In the dua, he praised Allah and said to Allah
that may he forgive him for his short coming and in his inability to deliver the message. He said that
although he had been injured and hurt by the Makkans he was happy as long as he had not displeased
Allah.
This is an example of the character of the prophet (pbuh). He was not angry with the people with their bad
actions and the bad treatment he had got. He did not blame Allah for this either but instead he thanked
Allah and looked for the fault within himself. He also was not concerned about these incidents as long as he
had not displeased Allah throughout this trip to Taif. There is a lesson to be learned in this for all of us, we
are too quick to blame others without looking within us and our own short comings.
Muhammad (pbuh) has suffered a lot at the hands of the Makkans and now at the hands of the people of
Taif. He had lost his loving wife who had been by his side throughout his mission. He had lost his dear and
beloved uncle Abu Talib who had protected him from the Makkans. What was going to happen if he
managed to get into Makkah alive and how would the people treat him in Makkah?
18. FROM TAIF TO MAKKAH

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had suffered some personal losses in the death of his beloved wife Khadija
and his loving Uncle, Abu Talib. After the passing of Abu Talib, the Makkans had become more hostile
towards the Muslims and showed no restraint, even against the Prophet (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh)
decided to visit Taif in the hope that they would be more responsive to the message of Islam than the
Makkans were. However, the people of Taif also refused to listen to the prophet (pbuh) and refused to
accept his teaching. After a few days, they chased the prophet (pbuh) from the city causing him and Zayd to
be injured during their escape.
Zayd was the prophet’s only companion during the visit to Taif. as they both rested against the wall of a
vineyard, two Makkans noticed them. They took compassion on these blood-soaked and exhausted people
and sent some grapes by the hands of their servant, Addas. Addas was impressed but also curious with
Muhammad (pbuh) who started eating by saying the Bismillah. Addas began a conversation with the
prophet (pbuh) and very soon he became sure that Muhammad (pbuh) was actually a prophet. Later when
his masters rebuked him, he replied, “There is no person on the face of this Earth better than Muhammad!”

Muhammad (pbuh) did a dua to Allah and then they moved on towards Makkah. The Angel Jibrael came to
the prophet (pbuh) with the Angel in charge of mountains. The Angel Jibrael told prophet Muhammad
(pbuh) that if he so wished he would command the Angel of mountains to bury the city between two
mountains. Although the prophet (pbuh) had suffered a great deal in the hands of these people, he replied
that maybe their offspring would accept Islam and would proclaim the religion of truth. Due to the kind
nature of Muhammad (pbuh), the city was saved from destruction.
On the journey back to Makkah, the prophet (pbuh) and his companion rested for a while in a place called
Nakhlah and the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) recited the Qu'ran. As he recited the verses of the Qu'ran, he
did not realise that even in the darkness of the desert, there was an audience listening to and admiring
these verses. Later on, a few verses of the Qu'ran were revealed which told the prophet (pbuh) that a group
of Jinn had come and had marvelled at these beautiful words. The Jinn had gone and spoke to their
companions about these verses. This audience of Jinn then sat, filling the valley, listening to the beautiful
recital.
When Muhammad (pbuh) reached near the city of Makkah, he stopped off at Mount Hira on the outskirts
of Makkah. He then sent guides to some of the nobles of Makkah, asking them if they would offer him
protection when he entered Makkah. All the nobles refused but Al Mu’tim bin Adi, one of the leaders of
Makkah volunteered to protect the prophet (pbuh). He sent a message to the prophet (pbuh) asking him to
enter the city and go straight to the Ka'bahand he would extend his protection to him.
Muhammad (pbuh) entered Makkah and proceeded straight to the Ka'bah. Mu’tim was waiting with his
family and friends, fully armed and ready for battle. The prophet (pbuh) proceeded to the Ka'bahand
offered a short prayer by reading two rakats and then the group accompanied Muhammad (pbuh) to his
house. Mu’tim announced to the people at the Ka'bahthat he was offering Muhammad (pbuh) his
protection and if anyone would dare to harm the prophet (pbuh) they would have to face the
consequences. The prophet (pbuh) entered the city without being harmed and was returned to the relative
safety of his house.
Abu Jahl was very concerned and sent for Mu’tim. He asked him if this protection he was offering
Muhammad (pbuh) was a sign that he had accepted Islam. Mu’tim replied his actions were no more then
protection for Muhammad (pbuh) and not an acceptance of Islam. Abu Jahl was relieved by this reply and
told Mu’tim not to worry because he would offer Muhammad (pbuh) protection instead.
So Muhammad (pbuh) returned from Taif and resumed his duties in preaching and teaching the message of
Islam. The Hajj season was at hand and he began to speak to the people about Islam and encouraging them
to face the true realities of this life. He told them to stop worshipping the idols and to worship only Allah. In

this year’s Hajj, there were no great conversions to Islam or any major events. However the prophet (pbuh)
was successful in his mission with some people turning towards Islam and listening to the message.
There were many tribes the prophet (pbuh) spoke and he had many dialogues. The tribes as a whole did not
accept Islam. In many cases, they listened to the prophet’s message and reflected on his words. Although
many would accept part of it, they did not want to leave the religion of their forefathers; after all they had
travelled to Makkah to pay homage to these Idols. The prophet (pbuh) was not deterred by this and made
the point of speaking to as many groups or individuals as he could.
One tribe he spoke to was the Bani Amir bin Sa’sa’ah. They listened to the Prophet (pbuh) and they were
impressed with his powerful words and messages. They said that they would support the prophet (pbuh)
because this message could potentially conquer all Arabia and would surely succeed with their support.
Their chief then offered the prophet (pbuh) their acceptance of Islam with the condition that their tribe
would be the rulers, or successors, after the prophet (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) replied that he could not
fulfil that condition because only Allah decides who should rule and not man.
The Bani Amir bin Sa’sa’ah then revoked their offer saying they wouldn't stand up for and sacrifice for Islam
if they were not guaranteed to be the rulers after the prophet (pbuh)! They had not truly accepted or
understood Islam. The message of Islam is that this world is temporary and the next world is permanent –
humans should work with the aim of being successful in the next life not to gain power and fame in this life.
The situation and safety of the Muslims had deteriorated; none of the Muslims were free from the Makkan
ill behaviour and persecution. Even Abu Bakr was so fed up with the torture by the Makkans that at one
point he was ready to leave Makkah. Now Abu Bakr was a gentle person who had been very well respected,
even before Islam came, and everyone knew of his kind and gentle nature. You would not think that such a
person would suffer from any kind of abuse no matter what the circumstances were.
The prophet (pbuh) was talking about the toughest times they had to endure. He said that the Quraish did
not have an effect on him as they did after the death of Abu Talib. Their lives were made a misery and there
was no one that could stop this aggression and stand up for the Muslims as Abu Talib had done. The
Makkans showed no compassion or restrain when they dealt with the Muslims.
Another difficult year had lapsed and the Muslims were under the yoke of the Makkans. However, Hajj
season was coming up very soon and this time there would be many tribes coming to Makkah to visit the
Ka'bah. The prophet (pbuh) was ready to invite the people to the truth of tawheed and fulfil his mission.
However, unknown to the prophet (pbuh), there would be a certain group of people who were going to
listen attentively to the message. They would take this message to heart and adopt its teachings into their
lives.

The pilgrims poured into Makkah as they had done since the time of Ibrahim (as) many centuries earlier.
However, these pilgrims did not come to worship the one true god for who this great house was originally
built. Instead they would worship the many idols, which littered the holy sanctuary.
As the tribes entered Makkah and performed their Hajj, the prophet (pbuh) made arrangements to speak to
these tribes and individuals about Islam. The prophet (pbuh) would speak to these people at night away
from the eyes and ears of the Makkans. Many of the tribes would refuse to speak to the prophet (pbuh) but
some of them did listen to the prophet (pbuh). There would be a handful of people who would accept the
message whilst the majority of them would reject Islam. Often the prophet (pbuh) was accompanied by
some of his close companions such as Abu Bakr, Umar or Ali.
The prophet spoke about Tawheed, dedication of one life to the worship of Allah and shunning the worship
of everything besides Allah. This proposition was very difficult for the people to accept let alone follow.
Makkah was a great city because of the many people coming to visit those very idols that the prophet
(pbuh) was preaching against! The people were often filled with pride for their forefathers and were
unwilling to accept that their forefathers be wrong!
The prophet (pbuh) would continue to preach Islam, in amidst this sea of idol worship. One of the many
tribes that was visiting the Ka'bahand performing the Hajj was a group from Yathrib. The prophet (pbuh)
was at a place called Aqabah in Mina when he over heard some people talking. The prophet (pbuh) went to
them and asked if he and his companions, Abu Bark and Ali, could join their company.
The group of six Arabs were from the Khazraj tribe and they had already heard about prophet Muhammad
(pbuh) from the Jews and the other Arabs. They were a little curious to see this man who had caused such a
stir in Makkah, who was much talked about throughout Arabia. The Jews in Madina had often spoken about
a prophet who would come and conquer the Arabs. The group invited the prophet (pbuh) and his
companions to sit with them. They listened to the prophet (pbuh) talking about Allah; the need to worship
Allah alone; the teachings and responsibilities of Islam.
The group were very impressed by the beauty and simplicity of the message and accepted Islam straight
away. They decided that they would speak to the Aws tribe who were their bitter enemy in Yathrib. They
thought that maybe they too would accept Islam, which would bring an end to the feuds that often erupted
between the two tribes.
With this hope of unity in Yathrib and zeal of spreading Islam through their community, this group of six
young men departed company. What would happen to this small group of six? Would they be successful in
Yathrib or would they suffer the same response as the Muslims had received in Makkah? What affect would

this small group of new converts have and what contribution would they make to Islam, only time would
tell.
There was another major event that was going to take place. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) would be taken
on a journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and then to the high heavens. During this journey, he would see
many incredible things and speak to some of the greatest people that came before him.
19. THE NIGHT JOURNEY

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was now in the eleventh year of his mission. He had strived through some
very difficult and testing times. In fact, this was a testing period for all the Muslims, especially since they
were suffering so many hardships at the Makkans. However, the Prophet (pbuh) remained steadfast to
Islam and his mission. He continued to preach the message of tawheed (worship of one God) in this hostile
climate.
There was one important incident that took place during this period. The prophet (pbuh) was taken on a
night journey to the farthest mosque in Jerusalem on a journey known as the Isra and then into the
heavens known as the Miraj. This was no ordinary journey because normally the journey from Makkah to
Jerusalem would take a month if travelling by horse or camel. It would take another month to travel back.
The journey into the heavens was totally unheard off and hard for people to understand or accept. The
prophet (pbuh) had completed the whole journey to Jerusalem and then into the heavens during a small
part of the night.
The Angel Jibrael accompanied Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) throughout the journey. The prophet (pbuh)
travelled on an animal called the Buraq which allowed the prophet (pbuh) to travel vast distances in a small
period of time. It also allowed him to travel into the heavens, which no normal creature would be capable
of. The Buraq is like a horse upon which the passenger would sit.
The prophet (pbuh) was whisked away to the mosque in Jerusalem – Bait ul Maqdis. Here all the prophets
were assembled and they prayed salah together behind prophet Muhammad (pbuh). This was a unique
event where the most noble of human beings were gathered together in one place. All the prophets from
the past were assembled at the same point in time to offer salah behind the last and final messenger.
After the Salah, the prophet (pbuh) was taken away into the heavens. as the prophet (pbuh) ascended the
different heavens, he met many prophets and saw many amazing things. This journey through heaven
continued through each heaven until he reached the seventh heaven and was taken to a point where he
spoke to Allah in person. It is understood that the prophet (pbuh) did not see Allah with his own eyes but
instead was taken to the furthest point at the lote tree. Here the prophet (pbuh) was able to speak to Allah.

During his journey there he had met prophets at each heaven and also spoke to them. He met prophets
such as Adam (as), Yahya (as), Isa (as), Yusuf (as), Harun (as), Ibrahim (as) and Musa (as). He had the
opportunity to speak to these prophets and they acknowledged their faith in the final messenger.
When the prophet (pbuh) spoke with Allah, he was given the command for the believers to pray fifty times
a day. as the prophet (pbuh) descended, he met Musa (as) who advised him that this would be difficult for
the believers and that he should ask for a reduction in Salah.
The prophet (pbuh) returned to Allah and requested that he got a reduction in the number of prayers. Allah
granted the Muslims a reduction to forty Salah and again the prophet (pbuh) returned. However, when he
spoke to Musa (as) again, he was advised that forty was too much and the believers would not be able to
pray so much. Musa had experience with his people for many years and from this experience he was
advising the prophet (pbuh).
Muhammad (pbuh) again returned to Allah and again Allah reduced the number of Salah for the believers.
This trip to and fro continued until the prayers were reduced to five Salah. Musa (as) still advised the
prophet (pbuh) to request the number of Salah to be reduced further but the prophet (pbuh) was too
embarrassed to go before Allah and ask for a further reduction.
The five daily prayers were thus made compulsory upon the believers by the command of Allah. It was the
will of Allah that the Salah should be reduced to five Salah in a day but still the people who perform them
will receive the full reward for the fifty Salah. The prophet (pbuh) then continued his journey through
heaven.
The Prophet (pbuh) was shown some amazing sights including Heaven and Hell. He saw the people that
were getting punished for the bad actions they had done in their lives on Earth. These people would suffer
many hardships in Hell and would remain in Hell forever suffering these punishments (unless Allah forgave
them). In Hell, the punishments were indeed very severe and different type of evil deeds had different
punishments.
The prophet (pbuh) was also shown parts of heaven where he saw some of the many delights and ease the
good people would be rewarded with. There were many amazing things that no human eyes had seen and
would only see in the hereafter. The prophet (pbuh) told his companions about paradise and some of the
things in store for the righteous people on Earth.
This had been quite an experience for the prophet (pbuh) and this assembly of all the prophets had never

happened before in the history of mankind. The prophet (pbuh) told Umm Hani about this journey and she
advised him not to tell the people because they would belie him and try to harm him. However, the truth is
the truth and the prophet (pbuh) went and told the people about this amazing journey.
The Makkans were ecstatic, finally prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had said something that was unbelievable
and they could use this to attack and ridicule the prophet (pbuh). The words and the message of the
prophet had always been clearly the truth and he spoke words of such wisdom and guidance. However, the
night journey was different because it was very difficult for the Makkans to grasp. How could the prophet
(pbuh) travel a two-month journey in such a short time? How could the prophet (pbuh) ascend into the
heavens? They would use this experience to ridicule the prophet (pbuh) and call him a liar.
The Makkans taunted Muhammad (pbuh) and asked him many questions. They laughed at him and claimed
that he was making this whole experience up. They asked him many questions but this did not satisfy their
curiosity. In fact, they began to taunt Muhammad (pbuh) more - saying how could he make a journey to
Jerusalem in such a short time – it just wasn’t possible.
Muhammad (pbuh) told them details of his journey and about how he had seen some caravans on their
way back to Makkah. He told them some incidents that had taken place where camels had gone missing
and he had guided the people there. He described the caravans and the camels that were leading them in
great detail. He also gave them many accurate details of the mosque in Jerusalem, even though the
Makkans knew that the prophet (pbuh) had not travelled there prior to this experience. The travellers later
confirmed all these details but still they refused to believe the prophet (pbuh).
There were some Muslims who had accepted Islam but wouldn’t believe this journey had taken place.
Some Muslims left the folds of Islam whilst others, such as Abu Bakr, had their faith increased. This
experience was a test from Allah for all the people. Some people of weak faith left Islam but the true
Muslims of deep faith and understanding recognised the truth. They remained steadfast as ever to Islam
and the prophet’s teachings.
Some Makkans went to Abu Bakr and said that your companion (Muhammad) is relating some amazing
stories. Abu Bakr accused the Makkans of lying and making up stories about the prophet (pbuh). He then
added that if they were telling the truth that the prophet (pbuh) made this journey then the journey must
be true. He said that Muhammad (pbuh) would never lie and that the journey was true. He reasoned, if the
Qu'ran can come to the prophet (pbuh) in an instance from the high heavens to the Earth then why is it
unbelievable that the prophet (pbuh) can ascent into the heavens in such a short time?
After this incident, Abu Bakr was given the title of as-Siddique (the truthful). This journey to the heavens
had a number of effects on the people. The first was that the Muslims of weak faith had left Islam, leaving

only the cream of the Muslims. Secondly, the details about the caravan and Jerusalem were later confirmed
by the travellers which highlighted the truth of the prophet's words.
The traders from the caravans related the same incidents as the prophet (pbuh) had said and also the
caravans fitted the description the prophet (pbuh) had given. The description of Jerusalem was also
confirmed to be accurate. Some of the Makkans accepted that the prophet (pbuh) had spoken the truth
and had indeed gone on this journey. However, the Makkans continued to mock and insult the Muslims and
made things more difficult in Makkah for the Muslims.
As time had gone, the conditions were becoming more hostile for Muhammad (pbuh). The Makkan
community had made things very difficult for the Muslims and progressively things became worse. The
death of Abu Talib had been one major turn point for the mission of Muhammad (pbuh) with hostilities
against the Muslims increasing many folds. However, he remained undeterred and continued to preach the
message of truth to the people.
Muhammad (pbuh) knew that Islam was the truth, he had full faith in Allah and even when things were at
their worst, he knew that Allah would give them success. Allah had appointed Muhammad (pbuh) as a
prophet and had promised that Islam would conquer their hearts. Muhammad (pbuh) was just a warner
and a guide; the success of his mission was in the hands of Allah. Allah would grant this mission success and
Islam would prevail above all else.
The Hajj would be approaching soon and the prophet (pbuh) would soon be preaching to the many tribes
that would come to perform the Hajj. The prophet Muhammad (pbuh) would take the opportunity to tell
the people about Allah and the purpose they were created for. He would encourage the people to leave
idol worship and all the evil things they did. He would offer them a chance to repent from their past sins
and reform their lives by accepting Islam.
The Makkans were also ready; they would ridicule the prophet (pbuh) calling him a liar, a poet or invent
some other lie against him. They would encourage the people to ignore the prophet (pbuh) and to keep
away from him. They would warn the people to avoid listening to anything Muhammad (pbuh) said because
he recited words of magic!
Even though the prophet (pbuh) was finding his mission very challenging in this more hostile environment,
one significant event was going to take place this Hajj which would have a great and significant bearing on
the future of the Muslims in Makkah and indeed on Islam itself. This event would see the first major step
towards the spread of Islam and acceptance of the religion by a dedicated and appreciative people.
Last Hajj some people from Yathrib had accepted Islam. What was the condition of these few Muslims and

how successful had they been teaching their people about Islam? This too would soon be revealed when
they returned to perform the Hajj this year.
20. THE PLEDGES AT AQABAH

It was Hajj again in the twelfth year of Prophethood. The tribes were pouring in from all over Arabia to the
Holy House that was built by Prophet Ibrahim (as) many centuries earlier. They came to worship the idols
that were in and around the Ka'bah, even though it was originally built for the worship of Allah. The
Makkans were idol worshippers who had strayed from the right path.
Last Hajj there were six young men from Yathrib who had accepted Islam and had made a pledge to live
their lives according to the teachings of Islam. These men had returned to Yathrib where they would
practice this religion as well as teach it to their close friends, relatives and tribe. These young men would
also be returning to the Hajj and the Prophet (pbuh) was hopeful that they would bring some of their
companions with them.
As the many tribes came into Makkah, the Prophet (pbuh) would preach to them the religion of truth and
would convey the message of Allah to them. He would try and convey this message to as many of the
people as possible. Many of the tribes chose to ignore the Prophet (pbuh) whilst a few would listen to his
words. From them a few individuals would accept this message and would become Muslims.
The tribes from Yathrib were also here to worship these same idols with the exception of twelve people
who had come to meet the Prophet (pbuh). They visited the holy places in Makkah and when they were at
Aqabah, they met up with the Prophet (pbuh). They sat and talked with the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet
(pbuh) explained to them the deen and the implications of them accepting Islam.
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) commanded them to refrain from all types of evil and instead implementing
good and piety throughout their lives. They were required to leave all their old practices behind that went
against the pure teachings of Islam. He taught them about Allah and about worshipping only Allah; the day
of Judgement where they would recount all their deeds and the Hereafter where the righteous will be
rewarded with eternal bliss and happiness.
The Prophet (pbuh) then took an oath (or pledge) from them that they would adhere to these guidelines
throughout their lives and would dedicate their lives to Islam. This was known as the first pledge of Aqabah.
After this, this small group departed company with the Prophet (pbuh).
They rejoined their tribes and completed the Hajj before returning to Yathrib. The Prophet Muhammad
(pbuh) sent with them Mus’ab bin Umair who would stay with asad bin Zurarah. He was sent as a teacher

and a guide for the new Muslim community. He would teach the Muslims about Islam and advise them in
all matters of deen. He would also speak to the non-Muslim Arabs and teach them about Islam, inviting
them to accept Islam and reject all evil.
In Yathrib, the situation was a lot different than Makkah and less hostile towards Islam. Mus’ab and asad
would speak to the people, reason with them and read to them verses from the Qu'ran. The people were
attracted to the truth and simplicity of these teaching and soon many people were accepting Islam. There
were many incidents where people were hostile to Islam but when Mus’ab reasoned with them and taught
them about the beauty and wisdom of Islam, many would turn and accept Islam.
Islam flourished in Yathrib and soon grew to a sizeable community of practicing and dedicated Muslims.
They would learn from this noble teacher Mus’ab about Islam and took his advice in all matters. They would
practice what they learned and would teach it to their family and friends. They were a model community
who had dedicated their lives to Allah and to the worship of the one and only true lord of all mankind.
However, the situation in Makkah had not improved. The Makkans were very hostile towards the Muslims
and reluctant to let them live in peace and security. Nevertheless, the Prophet (pbuh) would continue to
pray to Allah and encourage the believers to have patience through there tough times. Occasionally, news
would come to the Prophet (pbuh) about the progress in Yathrib which was a welcome sign of hope.
as the year passed quickly, the Hajj season was coming again and the Makkans made preparations to
welcome the Arabs to Makkah. The Prophet (pbuh) was also making preparations to meet the tribes that
were coming to Makkah. This time there would be a lot more Muslims coming from Yathrib to visit Makkah.
They would also make arrangements to meet the Prophet (pbuh) during the Hajj. There was also
excitement amongst the Muslims for the arrival of their guests - their new brothers and sisters from
Yathrib.
Although the Yathrib Muslims were keen to meet the Prophet (pbuh), their spiritual guide. The Makkans
were hostile to the Muslims and always kept a close eye on their movement. Whatever preparations were
made would need to be kept secret and would need to take place under the darkness of the night. It would
also need to be kept secret from the Yathrib Arabs who had not accepted Islam but had come to perform
the Hajj.
Preparations were made to meet the Prophet (pbuh) at Aqabah in the middle of one of the last nights of
Hajj. The Yathrib Muslims would sneak out in the middle of the night whilst all the rest of the Arabs were
sleeping. They would swiftly travel to this location in the hillocks at Aqabah without making excess noises
that may alert the Makkans or other Arabs. Here they waited for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to arrive.
There was about seventy five Yathrib Muslims in total.

The Prophet (pbuh) and his uncle Abbas went to Aqabah and they met with the Yathrib Muslims. Abbas had
not accepted Islam yet but like Abu Talib loved and protected his nephew. He spoke to the Yathrib Muslims
and explained to them that the Prophet (pbuh) was relatively safe amongst his people here. He said that if
they were going to take the Prophet (pbuh) and support him then they must do it wholeheartedly. They
must support the Prophet (pbuh) through the difficult times as well as the times of ease!
Abbas continued to explain to them the full weight of responsibility they were undertaking and advised
them that if they could not shoulder this burden then leave the prophet (pbuh) amongst his own people in
Makkah. The Bani Hashim and Bani Mutallib may not have been as powerful as before but they would
protect Muhammad (pbuh).
The Yathrib Muslims were determined as ever to follow Islam and dedicated their lives and loyalty to the
Muhammad (pbuh). They emphasised that they were prepared to sacrifice everything for the prophet
(pbuh) and would support him through every situation in the future. They had become Muslims for one
reason than it was the truth and they would stand for the truth in all situations. They would support and
obey the noble messenger Muhammad (pbuh).
Then Prophet (pbuh) explained to them what was required from the Muslims – dedication to Islam and its
teaching – and then they all made the oath or pledge. This was known as ‘The Second Aqabah pledge’. After
they had taken the oath, the Prophet (pbuh) asked the Yathrib Muslims to appoint twelve people from their
tribes to represent them. They nominated twelve people who took a second oath for this new
responsibility. After this they all parted company.
However, the word got out very quickly that a meeting had taken place and the Makkans were quite angry
at these developments. The Makkans gathered their forces and visited the Yathrib tribes accusing them of
supporting the Prophet (pbuh) and planning to fight against the Makkans. The Yathrib non-Muslims were
also shocked at these accusations and denied that anything had happened between them and the Prophet
(pbuh). The Muslims remained quiet as the two sides argued.
The Makkans seemed to reluctantly accept that nothing had happened and the Hajj continued with all the
tribes leaving Makkah and returning to their own territories. The Yathrib tribes had also left Makkah as the
Makkans began to piece together the events from their various sources. as soon as they figured out what
had happened they got together and again went after the Yathrib tribes. They wanted to confront them but
they were too late as the Yathrib tribes were too far away on their return journey.
The Makkans began to appreciate the tricky situation they were in. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had friends

and supports many miles away in Yathrib who could be potential enemies in the future. They were angry
that they were not able to intercede quicker and to sort things out before they had supported the Prophet
(pbuh). They directed their hostilities and anger towards the Muslims but the vital events had already taken
place.
The command was given to the Muslims to perform the Hijra from Makkah and soon the Muslims began to
migrate to Yathrib in small groups, leaving behind their homes and belongings. They were making this
migration with its great sacrifices for the sake of their deen. They sacrificed everything they had carrying a
few essential belongings on the back of their camels. The Makkans tried their best to halt the Muslims from
leaving but the majority of them left without incident.
Muslims that were caught were imprisoned in their homes. Often their own family members did this to
prevent them from escaping. The Muslims that got away would often leave their home and wealth behind.
Suhaib bin Sinan was one such individual who was a wealthy merchant. When the Makkans found out that
he wanted to leave Makkah they confronted him saying that he came as a worthless beggar and Makkah
had made him wealthy. They told him that he couldn’t leave Makkah. Suhaib gave them his wealth and
property in Makkah, leaving empty handed for Yathrib.
The Prophet (pbuh) remained behind with a few of his followers that included Abu Bakr and Ali. The
Makkans were keeping a close eye on the Prophet (pbuh) and watching his every move. They were
determined not to let him leave Makkah. The prophet (pbuh) was also waiting for the command from Allah
for him to leave Makkah. He had asked Abu Bakr to remain behind so that they could travel together when
the command came.
However, as the Prophet (pbuh) was waiting for the command, the Makkans were in an emergency meeting
with the heads of all the tribes attending. They were discussing the best way to deal with the new
developments and at possible solution to their predicament. They discussed many possibilities but Abu Jahl
had the most treacherous plan. He suggested that they should murder the Prophet (pbuh) in his own home
before he had a chance to leave for Yathrib!
As the meeting progressed, they discussed the fighting that would result in Makkah as the Bani Hashim and
Bani Mutallib sought vengeance for the death of Muhammad (pbuh). They would attack the tribe who had
killed the Prophet (pbuh) resulting in the death of many people. The Makkans wanted to avoid this
bloodshed.
It was suggested that one member of every tribe should get together and simultaneously kill the Prophet
(pbuh) so that the Bani Hashim and Bani Mutallib couldn’t attack just anyone. The tribes would then offer
them blood money for the death of the Prophet (pbuh). This would avoid any fighting in Makkah and also

solve their problem. The Makkan agreed to this plan.
The plan was set and the main objective was to kill the Prophet (pbuh) before he performed the Hijra. They
would murder him before he left their city in his own home. They assembled a group of people to perform
this murder and they immediately decided to put their plan in progress.
What would happen to the Prophet (pbuh)? How could he escape from this evil plan? How would he get to
Yathrib with the Makkans watching his every move? When would the command come from Allah to
migrate? All will be revealed next week, inshallah.
21. THE JOURNEY TO YATHRIB

The Makkans were never going to allow Muhammad (pbuh) to leave Makkah. In fact, in their meeting they
had planned an evil plot to murder Muhammad (pbuh). They selected one person from each tribe to carry
out this crime. They wanted to spread the blame of this murder to all the tribes in Makkah to prevent
bloodshed.
Whilst the Makkans were planning their crime, Allah commanded the prophet (pbuh) to make the Hijra to
Yathrib. Muhammad immediately went to the house of Abu Bakr and they planned the details of the Hijra.
They decided to travel together during this long journey to Yathrib.
That night, the Makkans were prowling the streets around the Prophet’s house. A number of them kept
guard close to the house, occasionally peering through the cracks in the door. They wanted to make sure
they would capture the Prophet (pbuh) before he could escape from their evil grasp. They were hell-bent
on killing our beloved Prophet (pbuh) so they were well armed with their knives and swords.
As it so happened, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had asked Ali, his beloved nephew and Sahabih, to sleep
in his bed that night. The Makkans would assume Muhammad (pbuh) was still sleeping. He had assured Ali
that he would be free from harm. Therefore, Ali slept in the Prophet’s (pbuh) place that night, with the
green cloak covering his body.
The prophet (pbuh) took a hand full of dust and blew the dust in the direction of the waiting assassins. He
recited some words of the Qu'ran and walked passed them. They were unable to see him as he walked past
their very eyes. Therefore, Muhammad (pbuh) was able to leave his house in complete safety whilst the
Makkans were still waiting outside for him.
The Prophet (pbuh) then headed towards Abu Bakr’s house, they got some things for the journey and then
left Makkah for Yathrib. They also had the company of Abu Bakr’s daughter, asma, with them for the first
part of their journey. They did not head directly for Yathrib but went in the opposite direction towards

mount Thawr, in the south. They knew the Makkans would come after them when they discover
Muhammad (pbuh) had escaped from them.
As they approached Mount Thawr, Asma left their company and both Abu Bakr and Muhammad (pbuh)
proceeded up the mountain. They headed for a cave where they would hide in safety for three days. Abu
Bakr went into the cave first to clean it out and to fill any holes that may contain dangerous creatures. He
used cloth from his clothes to block the holes. As the two travellers entered the cave, they began to rest.
In Makkah, the word got out that the Prophet (pbuh) had left Makkah so the Makkans barged into the
house of Muhammad (pbuh). They were surprised to find Ali sleeping in the Prophet’s bed so they beat him
up. They had planned to kill the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) when he woke up in the morning so had
watched the house all night.
They took Ali to the Ka'bahwhere they beat him again, trying in despair to get information out of him about
the prophet's whereabouts. They called an emergency meeting of all the prominent Makkans. During this
meeting, they put a large reward of 100 camels for anyone who could bring them Muhammad, dead or
alive. In case Abu Bakr and Muhammad were still hiding elsewhere in Makkah, they posted guards at all the
exits leading out of Makkah.
All the people in Makkah heard the announcement and many of them wanted to claim this reward. Groups
of people left Makkah in search of the two companions. Many of the Arabs in the surrounding areas also
headed out in search of Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr. In the meantime, they were safe in the cave in
mount Thawr.
Amir bin Fuhairah was a shepherd who was a close friend of Abu Bakr. In fact, he had been a slave who Abu
Bakr had purchased and set free. Amir herded his sheep all the way up to mount Thawr so the tracks they
had left in the sand had been covered by the goat tracks. This meant that it was very difficult to find out the
direction Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr had taken.
As the prophet (pbuh) rested with his head on Abu Bakr’s lap, Abu Bakr noticed one of the small holes he
hadn’t plugged yet. Abu Bakr did not want to disturb the prophet (pbuh) so he stuck his toe into the
entrance of the hole, preventing anything coming into the cave. Suddenly, a poisonous creature bit Abu
Bakr’s toe causing him much pain. Abu Bakr tried his best not to disturb the prophet (pbuh) who was
resting after their tiring journey.
Abu Bakr was suffering with the pain getting worse. A bead of sweat fell off Abu Bakr's forehead onto
Muhammad (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) woke up and noticed the pain Abu Bakr was in. He made a dua and

put some saliva on the wound causing it to heal immediately. Then the two companions remained inside
the small cave.
The Arabs were looking everywhere for these two travellers. They searched all the normal routes leading
out of Makkah and also the less common routes. Suddenly, a group of bounty hunters were heard coming
towards the cave. Their voices became louder as they approached the entrance. They were near the
entrance of the cave when Abu Bakr expressed his concern to the Prophet (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh)
simply replied, “What do you think of those two with whom the third is Allah.”
The Bounty Hunters saw that there was an undisturbed spiders web over the front of the cave. They had
been ready to go in and explore the cave but now reconsidered. They muttered amongst themselves and
decided that there was no one inside. They then walked away without exploring the cave. This was a first
close encounter but Allah had saved them from harm again.
During their short stay there, Abdullah the son of Abu Bakr would come to the cave with some food and
spend the night with them. Amir bin Fuhairah also came with some of the goats. He would bring them milk
to drink.
After the three days were over, the search for the two companions had subsided quite a lot. Just as they
had planned, they decided to make the trip to Yathrib. Their guide was Abdullah bin Uraiqit, who was also a
trusted friend of Abu Bakr. He took them through the least common routes, near the Red Sea towards
Yathrib.
For the journey, Abdullah had brought two camels with him which belonged to Abu Bakr. Abu Bakr had
offered Muhammad (pbuh) the faster of the two camels. The prophet (pbuh) refused this gift but said that
he would buy the camel of Abu Bakr. They fixed the price and the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) mounted the
camel. They set off on their long and arduous journey to Yathrib through the deserts of Arabia.
There were many incidents that took place on this journey until they finally reached their destination. One
of the closest was when they were tracked down by one of the Arabs, Suraqah bin Malik, who was attracted
by the big reward.
Suraqah was sitting in a company of his tribesmen. He listened to them talking about three travellers
moving towards Yathrib on some unused route. Suraqah assured them that they were some people he
knew. He assured them that he had met that small group a few days earlier. Deep inside he hoped those
traveller were Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr. He had the intention of catching up with them and claim
this reward.

After a short while, Suraqah set off towards the group, with his horse galloping at full pace making up lost
ground. As he got closer, his horse stumbled causing him to fall onto the ground. Suraqah consulted his
arrows, which advised him not to continue. However, Suraqah continued moving towards the small group
of travellers. Again he fell off the horse as its front legs sank into the sand. Suraqah was startled but again
he continued.
From this, he realised that this was no normal group of people and that Muhammad was indeed someone
special. He decided to talk to Muhammad (pbuh) and also requested for his protection. After one of the
companions wrote this down. Suraqah left their company knowing that he had met a prophet of Allah. He
also felt that Muhammad (pbuh) would surely conquer all Arabia.
There were many other incidents that go beyond the scope of these lessons. It is worth studying this in
greater detail as personal study. It will be of immense benefit and interest to the reader, inshallah.
The Muslims in Yathrib had waited eagerly for their beloved Prophet (pbuh) to arrive for quite a few days
now. Every morning they would come to one of the hillocks and look far into the desert for any sign of
travellers coming towards Yathrib. When the sun became extremely hot, the Muslims would leave and
return to their houses.
One of the Jews noticed a small group of people, wearing white clothes, coming in their direction. They
assumed them to be Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions. The Muslims had already left so he shouted
aloud, “Your Prophet (pbuh) is coming!” and the Muslims rushed out to meet him. There was great joy and
much celebration and excitement. Muhammad (pbuh) and Abu Bakr had finally arrived in Quba, which was
their main stop before going to Yathrib.
The Muslims in Yathrib were by no means wealthy and how would the society absorb such a large number
of extra Muslims? Muhammad (pbuh) and the Muslims may have escaped from the grasp of the Makkans
but even now the Makkans were annoyed. They were thinking about getting revenge and finishing things
off, once and for all! How long would it be before the Makkans and their allies would cause trouble in
Yathrib?
Yathrib was a city of illness how would the new guests fare in this new climate? Yathrib also had its own
problems with a fragile peace existing between the different groups and tribes? How would they feel with
the arrival of Muhammad (pbuh), the new leader of the Muslims? All will be revealed, Inshallah.

22. THE NEW SOCIETY IN MADINA
After a long and tiring Journey, Muhammad (pbuh) and his close companion Abu Bakr had safely arrived in
Quba. The Makkans had tried their best to prevent Muhammad (pbuh) from performing this Hijra but they
had failed miserably. They had tried all their tactics and plans to stop the Prophet (pbuh) from preaching
Islam but they had failed miserably. They had tried their best to stop the spread of Islam but their efforts
had ended in failure.
When the Prophet (pbuh) arrived in Quba there were many scenes of joy and celebration. The people
welcomed Muhammad (pbuh) with open arms. The air was filled with shouts of the Takbir –Allahu Akbar
(Allah is great) and the singing of the children. After the people had met the prophet (pbuh), they laid the
foundations of the new society by building the first Masjid in Quba.
Muhammad (pbuh) with his own hands helped to build this new mosque. The mosques in those days were
not as big and well decorated as they are today. They did not have the beautiful minarets and domes, which
makes the Masjids distinct from other buildings. The Masjid was a simple building with a palm leaf roof.
Muhammad spent a few days at Quba before heading for Yathrib. On Friday morning, he set off for Yathrib
with a group of his companions. When it was time for Jummah, they prayed it in a valley close to Yathrib.
Later on that afternoon they arrived in Madina (which was the new name of Yathrib).
The scenes in Madina were similar to Quba but a much larger community welcomed the Prophet (pbuh).
They celebrated the arrival of the prophet (pbuh) by lining the streets of Madina. The men of Madina
accompanied the prophet (pbuh) dressed in their armour and armed with their swords and spears. This
signified the promise made to Muhammad (pbuh) that they would protect him; this was a demonstration of
their intention to fulfil this promise.
Some of the people were competing with each other to invite the prophet (pbuh) to their homes. Some
tried to take the reigns of his camel to lead it towards their own home. The Prophet (pbuh) stopped the
people and said let the camel go on its own accord. The camel was commanded by Allah and started to
wander through the streets of Madina.
The camel travelled through Madina with the crowds of people following it. The camel finally stopped on a
plot of land belonging to two orphans. A deal was negotiated and a price agreed for the land, even though
the guardians of the land wanted to gift it to the Prophet (pbuh). The land was purchased and a Masjid was
built on that very site. The Prophet (pbuh) himself was involved in the construction of the Masjid. He
carried the materials and helped to erect the Masjid.

Next to the Masjid, they constructed some living quarters for the prophet’s wives and also an area was set-
aside for any homeless and destitute people. In those days, the Muslims used to face Jerusalem for their
prayers so the Qibla was set in that direction.
Until his living quarters were ready, the prophet (pbuh) had stayed as a guest in Abu Ayub’s house. Abu
Ayub lived adjacent to the site of the Masjid and was actually related to Muhammad (pbuh) from his
mother's side. Abu Ayub moved to the upper story of his house with his family during those few days. Abu
Ayub was amongst the people who made the pledge with Muhammad (pbuh) in Aqabah.
With the construction of the Masjid, the Azan (call to the prayer) was also instituted. There was a bit of
discussion about how to call the people to prayer. One of the companions, Abdullah bin Zayd, had a dream
during which he was shown the best way to call the people to prayer. He related the dream to the Prophet
(pbuh) who said that it was a true dream. Another Sahabih, had the same dream so it was decided that this
would be the universal call to the prayers.
Abdullah bin Zayd taught the words of the Azan to Bilal just as he had heard in the dream. Bilal became the
first Mu’azin, the caller to prayer, in Islam. From that day onwards, the azan has been used all over the
world call the faithful to the worship of their Lord in Salah. The Azan is said five times a day in every
mosque.
There were other immediate problems that needed to be resolved. People would come to the prophet
(pbuh) in the masjid Nabwi that had now been completed. The prophet (pbuh) would listen to their
problems and advise them on the best solutions. Whenever there was a dispute amongst the inhabitants of
Madina, they would always turn to the prophet (pbuh) for guidance and advice.
Another major issue the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) would need to deal with was the large number of
Muslims who had emigrated to Madina. Many of them had left everything behind, their only belongings
were the clothes they were wearing. The Muslims of Madina were not very wealthy and the size of the
community had swelled with these new Muslims. The welfare of these Muslims, who were known as the
Muhajireen (the people who made Hijra), had to be looked after by the Ansar (the helpers of Madina).
The prophet (pbuh) proposed that each of the Muhajir would be paired with the Ansar. Each would become
a brother to the other thus sharing food, shelter and wealth with each other. Many of the Muslims of
Makkah had left empty handed and were indeed destitute, without shelter, food or family.
Without any hesitation, the Ansar embraced the Prophet’s instructions and welcomed their new brothers.
They knew Allah sent the prophet (pbuh) with true guidance so they adhered to his every command. This

became a hallmark of the Ansar. The tribal differences and pride that had existed amongst the people was
removed and they became true brothers. They helped and supported each other and through this unity the
community thrived.
The Muslims shared everything with each other. They became brothers in faith and whatever little they had
for sustenance was shared between them. With these solid foundations of love and brotherhood, the deen
of Islam and the welfare of the community flourished.
The Muslim community was new and hence a little fragile and even vulnerable. However, their hearts were
forged together with Iman and brotherly love that gave them immense strength. There were many new
problems which were beginning to appear and would take time and patience to fully resolve.
The other large group that co-existed in Madina was the Jews. A treaty was agreed with them that allowed
everyone complete freedom to worship their own deen. They were equal citizens and nothing would be
imposed upon them. They would unite to defend Madina and their advice and opinions would be listened
to, as long as it did not cross the boundaries of justice and truth. The Jews readily accepted this agreement
even though some of them had their reservations about many matters.
Some of the Jews accepted Muhammad and whole-heartedly followed Islam. However, a large number of
them were now enemies of Islam even though they knew that Muhammad (pbuh) was a true prophet! They
could not accept the fact that Muhammad (pbuh) was from the children of Ismael and not from the
descendents of Ishaq. They held many evil intentions in their hearts.
The Jews had enjoyed a privileged position in Madina because of the past tribal warfare between the Aws
and Khazraj. Both these tribes had been weakened because of the years of fighting and bloodshed. They
needed to borrow money from the Jews to continue the war that pushed them into debt and poverty. This
meant that the Arab tribes were weakened because of the fighting but at the same time were financially
crippled.
The Jews were also annoyed at the new unity and brotherhood amongst the tribes of Aws and Khazraj.
They were looking at ways to cook up trouble between them hence breaking the unity of the Muslims. They
continued to exploit past differences to inflame hatred and misunderstandings between them.
In one instance, they nearly succeeded in causing a new war between the Khazraj and Aws. They got a
youth to recite past poetry that highlighted the strength of each tribe, promoting enmity between these
tribes. The swords were drawn and ready for war until Muhammad (pbuh) intervened and ended this
madness. He reminded them of the favours Allah had given them by guiding them to the truth. He
reminded them that they were now brothers and were united in Islam. When the prophet (pbuh) finished,

they became very remorseful about the fighting and asked each other for forgiveness. They shed many
tears and embraced each other, vowing never to make this error again.
The Quraish hadn’t finished their bidding either. Even now they were consulting Abdullah bin Ubai, the
former chief of the tribes. They were encouraging him to fight against the Muslims in Madina. Abdullah bin
Ubai started propagating this idea of fighting the Muslims and was amassing an army to put an end to this
new power in Madina.
How much havoc would these different groups cause in toppling the Muslims in Madina? Would the
Makkans cause civil war in Madina by calling on past favours and new promises? Would the Muslim
community be able to survive in this new environment, away from their wealth and trade in Makkah? All
will be revealed soon, inshallah.
23. THE BUILD UP TO BADR

The Makkans had been determined to finish off Islam from the earliest days. However, the Muslim
community had escaped their grasp by migrating to safety in Madina. In Madina, they were safe from the
persecutions and abuse they had suffered at the hands of the Makkans. They also had some protection
offered by local tribes of Madina who had now accepted Islam. The two main tribes of Madina were the
Aws and the Khazraj.
The Makkans still tried to attack the Muslims in Madina by instigating fighting and hatred against them.
They exploited past relationships with the different tribes and groups who stayed in that area. The previous
Madinan leader, Abdullah bin Ubai, had already got a small army together to attack the Muslims. He was
bitter because there was a power shift towards Muhammad (pbuh), the new spiritual leader of the Muslim
community. Before Muhammad (pbuh) came, Abdullah bin Ubai had been an important and influential
figure within the community.
When the prophet (pbuh) heard about a new threat from this army, he quickly headed out with some of
the Sahabah to meet them. The situation was quickly pacified when the prophet (pbuh) intervened and
spoke to them. He explained to these pagan tribes that the Makkans had no control over them anymore
and they should stop their aggression. The small army of non-believers was disbanded and they soon
headed back home.
There was still a lot of hostility and evil plotting against the Muslims and the safety of the prophet (pbuh)
was compromised, even in Madina. The command was given in the Quran for the Muslims to fight back and
defend themselves against all these hostile elements. Sometimes, the Sahabah would voluntarily guard the
prophet’s house, in case the Makkans tried anything.

The Muslim community began to grow and prosper in Madina. The prophet (pbuh) sent out small groups of
Muslims to the different tribes around Madina. These groups made some agreements with the tribes as
they had done with the Jews of Madina. They managed to develop good relationships with these tribes and
to also make some agreements. They ensured mutual safety and cooperation between both parties leading
to peace and prosperity.
The Muslims would also try to intercept the Makkan caravans who used the caravan routes passing close to
Madina. This in particular would aggravate the Makkans who were relying on the trade route for their
wealth and status. However, usually there was little or no confrontation between the Muslims and the
Makkans.
In one incident, the prophet (pbuh) sent out a small group of Muslims to get information about the caravan
route between Taif and Makkah. This small group of Muslims were despatched from Madina and when they
arrived at Naklah, they camped where the caravan was expected to pass. However, to their amazement,
the caravan came and camped very close to where they were hiding.
This small group of Muslims were in turmoil about the situation. A great opportunity had developed to
attack the caravan but the prophet (pbuh) had told them to gather information about the caravan but did
not say anything about attacking it. The caravan included some of the Makkans who were hostile towards
the Muslims in the past. This was also in the sacred months where all forms of fighting were forbidden. In
the past, there had been the odd battles like the Fijar war, which was fought through these months.
The Muslims did not know what to do so they remained in hiding. Finally, they decided to seize the
opportunity by attacking the caravan. There was a small skirmish where one of the Makkans was killed. The
Muslims managed to capture the caravan with all its goods and then escorted it to Madina. They also took
the captured prisoners to Madina with them.
In Madina, they gave one fifth of the booty to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and divided the rest amongst
themselves. The prophet (pbuh) refused their offer and instead was angry with them because they had not
followed his clear orders. Instead they had attacked the caravan and had also fought in the holy months.
The Makkans were also angry saying the Muslims had broken the tradition by fighting in the sacred months.
They said the Muslims themselves had violated the law that had been followed since the time of Ibrahim
(as). They began to tell all the Arabian tribes about this incident and told them that they would get even
with the Muslims whenever the opportunity arose.
The Makkans had attacked and abused the Muslims for many years and had taken their wealth, businesses
and homes in Makkah. The amount of wealth they confiscated from the Muslims far outweighed any

material gain the Muslims would get from attacking the caravans. The Makkans had committed many
horrendous crimes against the Muslims and had been hardhearted and inhumane with their treatment of
the Muslims. Many of these outrages had taken place in the holy months!
The prisoners were released from captivity and allowed to return to their families. Blood money was paid to
the family of the Makkan killed in the battle. This situation had caused a few problems and increased the
tension within the community. However, this had simply been a misunderstanding and the situation was
laid to rest when an ayah of the Qu’ran came down.
There was another caravan that was going to pass between Madina and the Red Sea. This caravan would be
loaded with goods that had been purchased in Syria. The caravan had already passed this way on its way to
Syria so was expected back very soon. The caravan had a special significance because it was run by one of
the leaders of Makkah, Abu Sufyan. It was carrying the wealth and goods of the Makkans. A hundred well-
armed men also heavily guarded the caravan.
The Prophet (pbuh) decided that this caravan should be intercepted and all its goods confiscated. He sent
out some scouts who watched the caravan route, keeping an eye out for the caravan. When the caravan
was sighted, they would inform the prophet (pbuh) and he would then send out a small army of Muslims to
intercept it.
There were many factors in the success of this mission. The first was that the details of the plan had to be
kept a secret. If the plan leaked out, the caravan would take a different route making it difficult for the
Muslims to intercept it. The information about the movement of the caravan also had to be very precise so
that it could be intercepted. Another factor that could affect the success of this mission was the different
people in Madina who were against the Muslims. They did not want the Muslims to succeed in anything
and were always looking at ways they could bring down Islam. Despite these factors, the prophet (pbuh)
decided to continue with the plan.
About this time, the prophet’s daughter, Rukhiya, the wife of Uthman bin Affan, was very ill. She had been
suffering for some time and was now very ill and weak. The prophet (pbuh) was very concerned for her
well-being and remained by her side for much of her illness. The prophet (pbuh) asked Uthman to remain
behind and look after his daughter whilst he accompanied the army to take the caravan.
Finally, the caravan was sighted and the scouts headed back to Madina. The prophet (pbuh) had already left
with a group of three hundred or so sahabah. They were making a plan to intercept the caravan at a certain
point near Badr. This army was not well armed and they also lacked transport - a camel was shared
between four or five people. Even though the details of the plan were kept secret, information about the

movements and intentions of the Muslims leaked out to the caravan.
Abu Sufyan received information that Muhammad (pbuh) had despatched an army to intercept the
caravan. Abu Sufyan was very sly and had a plan up his sleeve. He sent Damdam, from the Ghifari tribe,
with a message for the Makkans, asking them to send an army to protect the caravan. He then changed his
route and speeded up so that he could avoid the Muslim army.
When Damdam arrived in Makkah, he ripped his clothes and wounded his own camel causing it to bleed.
He then went to the Ka'bah, creating a dramatic scene. He announced to the Makkans to hurry with an
army to protect the caravan. He claimed that Muhammad(pbuh) was about to capture the caravan. He
encouraged them to quickly organise their weapons and move out towards the Muslims.
The Makkans had invested a lot of their wealth in this caravan so they quickly gathered an army of some
thirteen hundred soldiers - fully armed and ready for combat. This was the opportunity they were waiting
for so they quickly started the march towards the Muslims. They could save the caravan and also fight the
Muslims with whom they had a score to settle.
Abu Sufyan and his caravan had managed to escape from the Muslims. He sent another message to the
Makkans that the caravan was safe so they can all return back to Makkah. When the Makkan Army got the
message, some of them disbanded and returned to Makkah.
However, some Makkans were ready to fight the Muslims and did not want to lose this opportunity. They
decided to continue their march to Badr and encouraged everyone else to continue with the mission. In
Badr they would enjoy themselves, have a feast and return back to Makkah after a few days of enjoyment.
This way the Arabs would know that the Makkans were still in control of their territory. If they encountered
the Muslims, they would fight them and easily beat them with their superior weaponry and numbers.
The Muslims were camping near Badr. The news reached them that a well-equipped Makkan army
containing some of their finest soldiers was close by, ready to fight them. They were also informed that the
caravan had evaded them and was on its way to Makkah through a different route.
The Prophet (pbuh) consulted the Sahabah. He told them of the situation, asking their advice and opinions.
Some of the Sahabah replied that they were ready to either attack the caravan or to fight the Makkan
Army. They would stand shoulder to shoulder with the prophet (pbuh) and follow whatever he
commanded. The Prophet (pbuh) repeated this question because he had only received replies from the
Muhajirun and not from the Ansar.
Sa‘d bin Mu‘adh from the Ansar spoke; he confirmed that Allah had sent Muhammad (pbuh) with the truth.

He said that they would be prepared to fight with the Makkans and would not stay behind or stand back
from any of the Prophets commands. They said that they were ready to lay down their lives for the noble
cause of Islam. They would not hesitate to follow any of Allah’s commands and would support any decision
the Prophet (pbuh) made.
The scene was thus set for a massive confrontation between the Muslims and the Makkans. The Muslims
were not well equipped with weapons - some of them didn’t even have swords or spears. The Makkans on
the other hand were a fully equipped army dawning its finest armour and parading its military might as it
matched towards Bard. The Makkan Army was more than three times bigger than the Muslim army.
It was inevitable that there would be a confrontation between the small Muslim Army against the might of
the Makkans. However, there was much more at stake because Islam had newly been established in
Madina. If the Muslims were beaten they would lose the cream of the community. The tribes near Madina
would then want to take the opportunity to attack the weakened Muslims community.
The Makkans needed to re-assure everyone that they were still a power in Arabia and this battle would
prove their status. They also had a score to settle with the Muslims and wanted to use this opportunity to
crush the Muslims and Islam.
24. THE BATTLE AT BADR

The stage for a battle was set with two opposing groups, one on each side. Firstly, the well-equipped and
well-armed Makkan army with its superior weaponry and numbers was heading towards Badr. The Muslims
were coming from the other side with a much smaller army which had very few weapons and armour. They
were only armed with swords and sticks to defend themselves against this daunting goliath of a Makkan
force.
After a long and gruelling march, the Muslims arrived first at Badr. The prophet (pbuh) commanded his
exhausted men to make camp. Al-Hubab ibn al Mundhir asked the prophet (pbuh) whether it was a
command from Allah to camp here. The prophet (pbuh) said that it wasn’t a command from Allah but his
own choice. Al-Hubab sought permission to advise the prophet (pbuh) and was granted permission
immediately.
He advised that it was better to camp at the furthest well which would be the closest to the advancing
Makkan Army. There they should gather as much water as possible then cut off the supply from the other
wells. This would mean that the Muslim army would have the only water source and was also at a better
location to face such a big army.
The prophet (pbuh) followed this advice and the Muslims marched on to the furthest well. It rained lightly

which caused the ground to become firmer, helping the small army to move quickly to the new location.
The Muslims then created a large pond filled with water and then blocked all the other wells.
Sa’d bin Mu’adh suggested that a tent be setup for the prophet (pbuh), away from the fighting front. This
would also provide a means to escape for the Muslims if the Makkans were to over come them. Sa’d also
appointed some companions to guard the tent, as it would be a major target for the Makkans. The Muslims
always put their prophet (pbuh) and their beloved deen before their own personal safety.
After setting up camp, the Muslims had a light nap which was a blessing from Allah. They awoke rested,
refreshed and well-motivated – ready to face this mighty Makkan army. Scouts were despatched to gather
information about the Makkan army which was now approaching Badr. The scouts reported that the
Makkan army had over a thousand men - well equipped, with horses, armour and weapons. The scouts also
reported that they had been greatly hindered by the light rain. There were many noble leaders and
imminent warriors within this army.
Umair bin Wahab, one of the scouts despatched by the Makkans also reported back and gave details about
the Muslim army. He said that it was a small army of three hundred or so men who were poorly armed and
protected with only their swords. He also said that his men had checked the rest of the valley and
concluded that no reinforcements were on the way.
However, Umair also advised the Makkans that the Muslims would not be taken easily because the men
were brave and dedicated with high morale. They would fight to their last man to defend their deen. They
advised that a peaceful settlement would be better for both sides. Abu Jahl refused this straight away and
instead said that their army would crush the Muslims in the coming battle.
The Makkans gloated over the situation; they had a far larger force than the Muslims. They were also better
armed and better prepared for war than the Muslims were. However, even with this in mind, many people
in the Makkan army were not happy about fighting the Muslims. The Muslims had not caused them any
harm and in fact, the Makkans had been the aggressors by persecuting and oppressing the Muslims for
many years.
The prophet (pbuh) always preferred the peaceful solution as this was demonstrated throughout his life but
when a conflict was inevitable, the prophet was prepared to take this difficult step. He would plan carefully
and take the opinions of his companions about how things should proceed.
Utbah bin Rabi’a didn’t want the Makkan army to attack the Muslims either since they had only come to
defend their caravan and not to fight a war. The caravan had already reached safety with some clever
navigation by Abu Sufyan. Utbah bin Rabi’a suggested that the only bone they had to pick with the Muslims

was the death of a Makkan by the hands of some Muslims. He himself would pay the blood money so that
the conflict could be averted.
However, Abu Jahl, the great enemy of Islam was also ready for him and anyone else who had second
thoughts about fighting. He called them cowards and other names so that they would be reluctant to leave.
He used every trick under the sun to keep them there. Abu Jahl had a great hatred for Islam and he knew
that this was a great opportunity to finish Islam and the Muslims for good.
The Makkan army marched forward to face the Muslims. They were confident that they would beat the
Muslims. Abu Jahl in his pride and arrogance said that the army of truth will be victorious today. This would
prove to be true and that the Makkans would get more than they bargained for from the Muslims.
Both armies faced each other across the sand dunes of Badr. The prophet (pbuh) inspected his own ranks
and gave his men encouragement. He reminded them that they had more noble goals of defending the
truth than any worldly gain. There was a lot at stake here with the Muslims facing their biggest trial, the
future of Islam and the Muslims was in the balance.
The Prophet threw some pebbles or stones in the direction of the Makkan forces and said, “May confusion
seize their faces”. The wind carried the dust towards the Makkan army, causing a sand storm and causing
much confusion within their ranks.
The first encounter began when six Makkan soldiers tried to go for water. They were warriors and did not
fear anyone as they arrogantly strode forward. The Muslims were more than a match for them and quickly
they were all beaten with the exception of Hakeem bin Hizam who survived and later became a Muslim.
Then three Makkan soldiers stepped forward, Utbah bin Rabia and two of his family members. They wanted
to combat three Muslims. Without hesitation, three brave Muslims stepped forward to fight them.
However, the Makkans protested at this because these men were from the Ansar and they wanted to face
their own tribesmen.
The prophet (pbuh) commanded three of his beloved companions to step forward to challenge these
aggressors and the Ansar returned to their ranks. Ubaidah bin Al-Harith, Ali and Hamzah stepped forward
and duelled with the three Makkans. Hamzah and Ali quickly beat their opponents and then helped
Ubaidah who was seriously injured in the combat. Hamzah and Ali finished the last man and then helped
Ubaidah back to safety. This signalled the beginning of the battle and both armies clashed.
Ubaidah was injured badly with his leg being cut off and the puss, blood and bone marrow oozed from the

wound. The prophet (pbuh) attended to his injured companion but knew that Ubaidah would die from this
horrendous injury. He gave him the glad tidings of an abode in Jannah that was awaiting his arrival. Ubaidah
became the first martyr (shaheed) in the battle of Badr.
25. PEACE RESTORED TO MADINA
The victorious Muslims were making the long return journey to Madina. News of the Muslim victory over
the mighty Makkan had already reached Madina and the people were looking forward to receiving their
heroes. However, certain groups of people refused to believe these facts and instead said the Muslims had
been soundly beaten! These groups included the Jews of Madina and the hypocrites. They knew deep down
that the Muslims had won but hoped that the news was false.
On the journey to Madina, the war booty was divided amongst the Muslims that had taken part in the
battle. A fifth of it was put aside for Allah and His messenger (pbuh). There was still an issue with what
should be done with the prisoners who were now accompanying the Muslim army - this issue would be
resolved on arrival in Madina.
The Prophet (pbuh) was with the first group of Muslims to arrive at Madina and the thrilled Muslims
greeted them with much enthusiasm. This had been no ordinary victory because the Makkans were much
superior in number and weaponry. It would have been almost impossible for any army to overcome them
let alone this small ill-equipped army.
The return to Madina was a happy occasion. The only sadness came when Uthman bin Affan returned after
having performed the funeral prayer and burial of his beloved wife Rukhiya. He had remained behind to
nurse his extremely ill wife and had not gone to Badr. The Prophet (pbuh) had also wished that Uthman
remain behind and look after Rukhiya who was also one of Muhammad's (pbuh) beloved daughters.
The prisoners followed the next day accompanied by the rest of the Muslim army. The prophet (pbuh)
commanded that the prisoners should be well looked after and not mistreated in any way. He told different
Muslims to look after the prisoners in their own homes. The prisoners were effectively treated as guests as
the Muslims shared with them their food and drink.
Afterwards, one off the Makkan prisoners said that he felt ashamed at times because he was given such
good treatment and the food he was given was better that the food the family ate themselves. He recalled
how he would eat bread whilst his hosts would be eating only dates.
After the battle of Badr, the Makkans had decided that they would not go to Madina to collect their
relatives and would not pay any ransom. They also agreed that they would not mourn the death of the
deceased in case the Muslim found out. They felt that the news of mourning would please the Muslims.

Abu Sufyan was effectively the chief of Makkah and he stuck to this rule by not sending anyone to collect
his son or paying a ransom. However, Abu Sufyan arrested one of the pilgrims from Madina who was later
swapped for his son. This aggression against the pilgrim was against the rules of the pilgrimage, which had
been honoured from the time of Ibrahim (as) by everyone.
The rest of Makkans made a journey to Makkah to collect their captured family members and pay the
ransom for their release. Some of the poor Makkans who could not afford freedom were set free on the
condition that they wouldn't get involved in any conspiracy against the Muslims again.
Some of the prisoners were allowed freedom after they had taught ten children to read and write. Being
literate was the honour of very few people in Arabia at the time. This deal improved the situation of the
children and allowed the prisoners to earn their freedom through this noble act.
One of the prisoners was Abbas, the prophet's uncle. During the journey to Madina, he had been tied up
like the other prisoners and the prophet (pbuh) was unable to sleep .The shackles of Abbas were then
loosened due to his discomfort at the request of the Prophet (pbuh). The condition of all the prisoners was
kept comfortable throughout the journey to Madina.
Abbas later told prophet Muhammad (pbuh) that he was a Muslim now and was unable to pay any ransom
because of poverty. The prophet (pbuh) reminded him of a private incident where Abbas had told Umm al-
Fadl (his wife) to bury some money for him. This money would be divided up between his three sons if
Abbas had been killed in the battle.
Abbas was shocked that the prophet (pbuh) knew this as the conversation had taken place privately
between Abbas and Umm al-Fadl only. At this point Abbas knew that Muhammad (pbuh) was the true
messenger of Allah and whole-heartedly accepted Islam. The prophet (pbuh) did not give Abbas special
treatment because he was his uncle but was even-handed and fair with all the people.
Abu al-As ibn al-Rabi had also been taken prison by the Muslims. He was the husband of Zaynab, another
daughter of the prophet (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) had held him in esteem because he remained faithfully
married to Zaynab when the Makkans had pressurised him to leave her. They had offered Abu al-As
marriage to any woman he chose as long as he left Zaynab. In the early days, they wanted to hurt Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh) in every way possible.
Zaynab sent the ransom for her husband, which included a necklace given to her by her mother Khadija.
When the prophet (pbuh) saw this, he recognised it instantly and was greatly saddened. He returned the
necklace to Zaynab along with the rest of the money. The Ansars released Abu al-As on the condition set by

Muhammad (pbuh) that he sends Zaynab when he returns to Makkah.
Abu al-As was freed and soon returned to Makkah to join his wife. Zaynab made the preparations for the
journey to Madina before departing. During the journey to Madina, she was stopped and harassed by the
Makkans brandishing spears that caused Zaynab to have a miscarriage. She was taken back to Makkah and
a few days later made the journey to Madina in secrecy, accompanied by her brother-in law, Kinanah and
an Ansar.
Many years later, Abu al-As accepted Islam and became a Muslim. He declared his conversion to the
Makkans after completing all his unfinished business. He then migrated to Madina to his wife Zaynab. Both
Abu al-As and Zaynab continued to live happily in Madina after that.
Umayr Ibn Wahb and Safwan were sitting together and talking about the grave situation caused by the
defeat of the Makkan Army. Umayr said to Safwan that if it wasn't for the fact he was poor; he had a young
family to look after and he had many debts to repay, he would have gone to Madina and assassinated the
Prophet (pbuh). He said he had the perfect excuse to go to Madina to collect his son. In Madina, whenever
he had the opportunity, he would attack the prophet (pbuh).
Safwan said that he would pay all his debts and look after his family if Umayr was to carry out this
treacherous deed. In Madina, Umayr would kill the prophet (pbuh) as soon as the first opportunity arose. If
Umayr was slain during his mission, Safwan himself would make sure his family was looked after and all his
debts were paid.
This dreadful plan was hatched and the two men agreed on this deal. Umayr sharpened his sword that
morning and applied some poison to its blade before he made the trip to Madina. As soon as he got to
Madina, he went to see the Prophet (pbuh). Umar thought something sinister might be going on so he
intercepted Umayr and accompanied him to the mosque.
Both men appeared before the prophet (pbuh) and the prophet asked Umar to leave Umayr alone. The
Prophet (pbuh) questioned Umayr and asked him why he had come. Umayr tried to trick the Prophet
(pbuh) by saying that he had only come to collect his son. Umayr tried to deceive the prophet (pbuh) by
hiding the real motive.
The Prophet (pbuh) then recounted the conversation Umayr had with Safwan in exact detail. He then told
him of the real reason why Umayr had come to Madina. Umayr was gob smacked and immediately
accepted Islam. He was taught all about Islam from the Muslims so that he could follow Islam fully and
adhere to its noble principles. Umayr became a just and pious Muslim

Umayr then requested permission to return to Makkah where he could speak to his people about Islam in
that hostile environment. The prophet (pbuh) gave him permission and Umayr began preaching in Makkah.
People did not like it but a few of them accepted Islam and became Muslims. Umayr had been hostile
towards Islam in the past and this courageous act was a way of putting some of those wrongs to right.
Thus the problem with all the prisoners was resolved with all of them being returned to their families and
tribes or were set free by the noble Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). This was the first time people had
witnessed such kind and humane treatment to prisoners of war. This led some people to question their
opposition and hostilities towards Islam and some of the prisoners also accepted Islam.
In the meantime, some of the allies and friends of the Makkans were causing problems for the Muslims and
many were collecting together their small armies to attack them. There were a few small skirmishes against
the Muslims including Abu Sufyan bringing an army to the outskirts of Madina and then returning after
hassling and attacking a few people.
The prophet (pbuh) despatched a number of units against these rebels and soon they were brought to
justice with little or no bloodshed in most cases. This strengthened the Muslim's position and also helped
peace to prosper throughout the region.
The Muslims had enforced an embargo on Makkah through the northern routes, preventing the Makkans
from trading with Syria. The Makkans still tried to use these routes but in some cases they were caught or
there was a confrontation between the Muslims and Makkan traders.
However, as normality was returning to the Madina, there was another great danger looming over the
Muslim community. There were rumours that the Makkans were planning to amass a large army with the
intention of attacking Madina itself. They wanted to take revenge for their humiliating defeat. This time,
the Makkans were more determined than ever before and were maddened with rage and humiliation. They
had sworn that they would take revenge and had looked forward to this encounter from the day of Badr
itself.
26. THE CHALLENGE AT UHUD

The decisive victory in Badr had shown all of Arabia that the Muslims were serious and dedicated to their
deen and their beloved prophet Muhammad (pbuh). It also demonstrated that the tide was turning in
Arabia. In the past, the Muslims would not retaliate and were subject to much misery and persecution at
the hands of the Makkans. This victory in Badr demonstrated that the period of thirteen years of brutal
hardship was now over.

Things were different after the command from Allah had come which allowed the Muslims to defend
themselves and fight back. The Muslims were no longer a down trodden and persecuted group of believers
but were an example of piety and justice. They could stand up against tyranny and injustices where before
they practiced patience.
After Badr, there had been a few tribes that were preparing to fight the Muslim community and attacking
Madina. All these threats were easily countered with patrols being sent to different areas to stand up
against the aggressors and troublemakers. There were a few small skirmishes here and there but on the
whole, everything was resolved peacefully.
After Badr, there was one community that weren't pleased at the Muslim victory. These were the Jewish
tribes in and around Madina and the Jews of Qaynuqa in particular. The Qaynuqian Jews had a treaty of
peaceful co-existence with the Muslims which had ensured peace in Madina. However, they were in open
violation of the treaty and created mischief within the community. They would ridicule the Muslims and
insight enmity and hatred against them.
The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) called them together and warned them about this unacceptable
behaviour. He told them that they should honour this agreement of peace just as the Muslims had
honoured it to the letter. He told them to stop this unacceptable bad behaviour that was doing harm to the
community..
The Qaynuqa Jews replied in an impolite and arrogant manner. They said that the Muslims may have
beaten the inexperienced Makkan Army but they would find the Jews of Qaynuqa so easy to beat. They
were masters of warfare and experienced in the art of war. This was a warning and a threat to the prophet
(pbuh) that if there was a confrontation between them, they would easily beat the Muslims.
The Jews of Qaynuqa were a well-armed, more warrior-like people who made weapons and sold them in
their markets in Madina. They were well armed and more powerful than the Muslims of Madina with over
700 warriors in their midst. They were also known for their bravery in battle.
The situation in Madina was simmering and it took one major incident to set this alight. One of the Muslim
women were in the market place of the Jews when one of the merchants tied her clothes behind her back
so that when she stood up it caused her body to be exposed. The Jews in the market place laughed at her
but one Muslim man who witnessed this incident stepped in. After a small fight between the Muslim and
the Jew, the Jew was killed and the on-looking Jews killed this Muslim.
The family of the deceased Muslim asked for help and justice from the Muslims and the prophet (pbuh)
commanded the Muslims to gather their forces. The Muslims began a march towards Qaynuqa with this

small army and the Qaynuqian Jews quickly retreated to their forts. They wanted to face the Muslims from
inside their fortified positions rather than in open combat. The Muslims marched to Qaynuqa and laid siege
to their forts.
Allah caused fear to spread into their camps and it was a matter of fifteen days before the siege was over.
Qaynuqians were already taken prisoner when Abdullah ibn Ubai' stepped in. He argued that in the days of
old, his tribe were allies and had a treaty with the Jews. He requested for leniency to be shown. They
decided that the Jews would be allowed to leave without any reprimand for all the trouble they had caused
and the treaty which they had broken. So this community left Madina, leaving their lands and possessions,
and moved to Syria where they setup their homes again.
Another person who was strongly against the Muslims was Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf. He was gutted when he
heard that Muslims had beaten the army of the Makkans. He went around creating problems for the
Muslims and would speak ill of them. He would spread many lies about the Muslims and invite the people
to show hostility towards the Muslims.
When he went to the Makkans, he encouraged them to raise an army to fight the Muslims promising his full
support. He even compromised his own beliefs saying that the religion of the idol worshipping Makkans
was closer to theirs than Islam. Muslims and Jews believe in the one and same God whilst the Makkans
believed in many gods and worshipped idols.
When Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf returned back to his fort near Madina, he would write poems in which he would
say nasty things against the Muslims and the Prophet (pbuh). He would even insulted Muslim women in the
love poems he wrote. He tried to attack Islam and the Muslims by every means open to him.
The prophet (pbuh) asked some of the Sahabah to rid them of this menace before he could spread his
message of evil and hate further. A group of sahabah went to meet Ka'b in his heavily fortified fort and
soon won his trust over. One night, they attempted to arrest Ka'b during which he was killed and one of the
Sahabah, al-Harith ibn Aws was badly injured.
When the sahabah returned to the prophet (pbuh), they told him the whole story. The prophet (pbuh) did a
dua for him and put some saliva on the al-Harith's wound which healed instantly.
The restriction on trading from Makkah continued. The Makkans were starting to feel the pinch of these
sanctions. The Makkans had a meeting in which they decided on a new route which was kept secret from
the Muslims. The Makkans then sent out their caravan filled with goods through this unknown secret route.

The news of this new caravan leaked out and soon made its way to the Muslims in Madina. The prophet
(pbuh) sent out a group of Muslims and intercepted the caravan. Some of the traders and soldiers of the
caravan got away whilst some were injured or killed in the confrontation. The goods were confiscated and
taken to Madina.
The Makkans decided that it was time to get their army together and attack Madina. They had already
spoken with many tribes and had enlisted the help of neighbouring tribes. This army was much bigger than
before and better armed. It consisted of 3000 warriors. This time it included women who would beat drums
and sing songs, encouraging the men to fight bravely.
The army swiftly made its way towards Madina whilst a message was hurriedly despatched to the prophet
(pbuh) of its intention and whereabouts. The information reached the prophet (pbuh) when he was in the
Masjid in Quba, just outside Madina. He immediately called an emergency meeting of the Sahabah to
discuss how they would defend Madina against such an enormous army.
The meeting was called and the best strategy was discussed. The prophet (pbuh) suggested that the
Muslims should stay and guard Madina and let the army come to them. He suggested that the Muslims
would fight the Makkans in the narrow streets of Madina whilst the women would aid them from their
home.
Many of the Muslims suggested that they should go out and meet the Makkan army head on and fight
them. After much persuasion, it was decided that the Muslims should go and meet the Makkan army in the
open. The Muslim army went to arm themselves to fight the Makkan army which was approaching the
mountain of Uhud, close to Madina.
The Muslims managed to muster an army of one thousand or so soldiers to defend Madina. When the
prophet (pbuh) came out of his house, some off the Muslims such as Mu'ad bin Sa'd said that it was not
good that they had offered their opinions after the prophet (pbuh) had made a suggestion. They said that
they would stay and defend the city instead of fighting the Makkans in the open, if He (pbuh) so wished.
The prophet (pbuh) said that we should proceed with the plan and face the Makkan army. Shortly
afterwards, the Muslim army moved out. When the Muslims got near the battlefield, the hypocrites
decided that they too would show their true colours and at that point they decided to leave the Muslim
army. These deserters were an important part of the army because it consisted of about three hundred
people. This left a small army of 700 people to face the mammoth Makkan army which had about 3000
men
Abdullah ibn Ubai, the leader of the hypocrites, encouraged as many people to join him and leave the army.

The people of true faith stayed behind to fight even though the odds were stacked against them in this
unfortunate situation. Abdullah ibn 'Amr bin Haram complained to his people to stay behind and fight like
men but his words fell on deaf ears.
The prophet (pbuh) sorted his troops out and arranged them in key positions. He told everyone to follow
his command carefully and carry out their duties. The most important element was the fifty archers who
guarded the rear of the army. The Muslims did not have a cavalry and the archers would protect the army
from being attacked from behind.
As the moment of the battle drew closer, it became apparent to any onlooker that this was an unfair battle
with a small Muslim army facing a huge Makkan force. The glaring difference in numbers between the two
was astonishing but the Muslims were determined to defend Islam. They knew that they would either win
the battle or would be martyred in the cause of Islam, hence attaining paradise.
What would happen to the Muslims in such a trying and difficult time? This was by far the biggest trial
facing the Muslims so far. What would happen when the two armies met? Would the overwhelming
numbers of he Makkan army swamp the Muslims? All will be revealed next time Inshallah.
27. FROM VICTORY TO DEFEAT

The two armies faced each other across the battlefield at Uhud. The Makkan army was present in all its
glory and might - the superpower of the region. They had devised many strategies by which they hoped to
easily defeat the Muslims and crush them once and for all. Last time at Badr, the Makkans had suffered a
humiliating defeat and this time they wanted their pride, arrogance and military might to be known
throughout all Arabia. For them it was payback time – a time to avenge their defeat.
Their opponents were the Muslims who had raised an army within a few days. They were ill-equipped for
battle and were less than quarter in numbers compared to the Makkan army. They were the lesser army by
all criteria apart from their hearts which were filled with tawheed. They were committed in defending their
beliefs despite the odds. They had the truth on their side which was all they needed to overcome this
enormous challenge looming before them.
First Abu Sufyan stepped forward and addressed the Muslim Army. He was overjoyed when he saw this tiny
army before him and was already contemplating an easy victory. He invited the Ansars (the Muslims of
Madina) to walk away and return to their homes and let the Makkan face the Makkan Muslims (Muhajirun)
who had migrated there. Abu Sufyan said that their issues were with their kinsmen and not with the Ansars.
However, the Ansars were a noble and dedicated group of Muslims and they remained shoulder to
shoulder with their Muhajirun brothers. The Ansars had many exemplary qualities which included

steadfastness, honesty and bravery which were demonstrated time and again.
Abu ‘Amr al Fasiq (Abu Amr bin Saidi) stepped forward and also addressed the Aws, a tribe amongst the
Ansars. He had previously been an influential leader in Madina and had migrated to Makkah when the
prophet (pbuh) had arrived. He advised them to leave the battle and return to their homes but even his
words fell on deaf ears. His influence had waned in Madina and he despondently returned to the Makkan
camp.
The Makkan warrior Abi Talha al-Abdari stepped forward and challenged a Muslim to face him in man to
man combat. Abi Talha was a mighty warrior of immense skill and strength. In fact, he was considered
indefeatable in combat and his unblemished record and reputation was known throughout Arabia. There
was slight hesitation from the Muslims to face the Makkan champion until Zubair bin Al-Awwam stepped
forward.
Zubair was also a fearless and dedicated Muslim, respected and honoured as both courageous and pious.
He fought Abi Talha and quickly overpowered him and finished him off, much to the shock of the watching
Makkans. The loss of their great warrior was the beginning of the main battle.
The Makkans sent the cavalry in to attack the Muslims from their side, hoping to inflict heavy losses and
chaos within the Muslim Army. However, the Prophet (pbuh) had placed fifty of the best arches on a mount
defending the Muslims from such attacks. They fought off the waves of Makkan attacks with streams of
arrows causing the cavalry to retreat each time. This was a key position and it was for this reason that the
prophet (pbuh) had stressed that this position could not be vacated under any circumstance. Abdullah bin
Jubair was in charge of these archers.
There was a tremendous din as both armies clashed. The heroic Muslim forces fought with vigour and
bravery against the aggressors. The Makkan army pushed towards the Muslim position but the Muslims
held them at bay. This was truly a worrying sight for the Muslims as what seemed like an endless army was
moving upon them, armed to the teeth. Many standard bearers on both sides were killed during the battle.
However, even under such dire circumstances, the Muslims did not waiver but instead defended and
counter-attacked against the army. They fought with every ounce of their energy and whatever limited
weaponry they had to defend themselves. Under the most savage Makkan attacks, there seemed no limit
to the bravery and heroism of the Muslims.
Before the battle, the prophet (pbuh) was carrying a sword and had asked the Sahabi who would fulfil the
honour due to this sword. Abu Dujana said he would take this sword and would fulfil its honour by fighting
the Makkans without respite. Shortly after accepting the sword from Prophet Muhammad, he donned his

red headband which was a warning to the enemy to watch out that Abu Dujana intended to fight til death.
Abu Dujana was seen moving through the Makkan army with his sword flashing as he tore through the
Makkan ranks. Abu Dujana was true to his word. His bravery and commitment to his deen became an
example to all. He suffered many wounds but continued to carve through the Makkan army unimpeded by
the vast number of Makkans that had swamped the Muslims.
Hamzah the Prophet’s uncle was also in the midst of the fighting. Opponent after opponent were coming
towards him as he over powered them one after the other. Hamzah’s bravery had been demonstrated
throughout his life and today was no exception. He didn’t show any hesitation as he continued to fight off
the enemy forces.
However, unknown to Hamzah, there was one skilled warrior called Whashi who was specifically looking for
him. He had no intention of fighting against the Muslims and wasn’t interested in who would win the battle.
Instead, he had only one thing on his mind…. the assassination of Hamzah.
Whashi was a slave and his skill and accuracy with the javelin had impressed many people, including Hind
the wife of Abu Sufyan. She had a score to settle with Hamzah and wanted revenge for the death of her
family members in the battle of Badr (Utba bin Rabia, Shiba bin Rabia and Waleed bin Utba). She had
offered Whashi freedom in return for the death of Hamzah.
Whashi watched from the side and moved with stealth towards Hamzah. He watched this great warrior
taking on soldier after soldier until he was in firing distance. He waited until the moment arose and fired his
javelin toward Hamzah. It passed through Hamzah’s body causing fatal injuries to this great warrior.
Hamzah turned around to face this coward but moments later he had been martyred.
Whashi collected his javelin and returned to his camp waiting for the battle to finish. He had done his part
of the bargain and his reward was freedom and riches. The battle still continued and the din of beating
drums and clanging swords was strong as Whashi waited for the battle to conclude.
The Muslims gained the upper hand and the Makkans were retreating from the brave Muslim warriors. The
Muslims continued to gain ground as rank after rank of the Makkans were defeated. The Makkan army was
soon in disarray as they left the battle field. The end of the battle seemed to be close and the Muslims
began to collect the booty from the battlefield and capture the remaining Makkan soldiers.
The archers on the hillock were over looking this impressive scene and from their vantage point it seemed
that the Makkans were defeated. Many of the archers thought the battle was over and began to leave their

position and move to the battlefield. Abdullah bin Jubair urged his archers to stay but they replied that the
battle was over and went down.
At this moment things began to turn against the Muslims. The Makkans made a counter-strike against the
Muslims as their cavalry passed through the weakened defence on mount Aynain. Khalid bin Walid led the
assault and was soon in the midst of the Muslim army. There was panic and confusion as the Muslims
became exposed to this new danger. To add further chaos, the Makkans announced that the Prophet
(pbuh) had been killed and many of the Makkans were already rejoicing.
Both these events had a drastic effect on the Muslims with many of them losing hope and some running
from the field. The Makkans had regrouped and made fresh assaults on the chaotic ranks of the Muslim.
The Makkans could smell victory and fought with renewed vigour and made inroads into the Muslim forces.
The tide had turned and now the Muslims were losing the battle with the odds stacked heavily against
them.
There seemed no hope but many of the Muslims remained strong in conviction and deeds as they fought
off this army which was swamping them from all sides. Many of the great sahabah were martyred during
this onslaught. Even though the prophet (pbuh) was supposedly dead, many of the Muslims remained
steadfast to the cause and continued to defend with the usual courage.
Then from the field, the voice of the Prophet (pbuh) was heard calling the Muslims towards him. Instantly,
the Muslims moved towards him but the Makkans also headed towards Muhammad (pbuh) to finish him
off. For a moment, the battle seemed to be concentrated around the prophet (pbuh) again.
The small group of Sahabah who were defending the Prophet (pbuh) consisted of seven Muslims with other
Muslims rushing to the aid of the prophet (pbuh). The seven fought bravely and were martyred one after
the other. The prophet (pbuh) was struck by the sword which caused him to injuries his face and shoulder.
The Muslims looked on in horror as they rushed towards him and regrouped around the prophet (pbuh).
The injured prophet (pbuh) got up with blood gushing from his face and the iron rings of his helmet forced
into his flesh. Many Muslims had regrouped around him and fought off waves of attackers from the
Makkans. There were many stories of heroics from the Muslim warriors who put their own lives on the line
to defend the prophet and defend their beloved deen.
The Muslims moved up the hill to a more defensive position and after much fighting the battle was all but
over. Many of the Makkans went to the battlefield and began killing the injured Muslims and in many cases
mutilating the dead Muslims.

Abu Sufyan, the leader of the Makkans, came towards the Muslim position and shouted out, “Has
Muhammad (pbuh) been killed? “ The Muslims did not answer and then he also enquired about Abu Bakr
and Umar bin Khattab. Finally, Umar shouted back that the prophet (pbuh) was safe, ready to continue his
mission.
Abu Sufyan was disappointed with this news and also with the behaviour of his Army who had mutilated
the dead Muslims. He also said that they would face the Muslim army again next year. One of the Muslims
was instructed by the prophet (pbuh) to reply back that they accept this challenge of a rematch next year.
The fact of the matter was that the Makkans were in a winning position and they could easily march onto
Madina and finish off the strong hold of the Muslims. On the other hand, the Muslims had now regrouped
from their earlier setback and Abu Sufyan knew that they would pose a great threat to the Makkans if they
attacked Madina. He also knew that the Muslims were ready to fight, despite the odds, and fight with such
bravery that their victory could be turned to defeat again. The Makkans were anxious to return back and
savour the moment of victory.
Soon the jubilant Makkan army was on its way back towards Makkah, mounted on their camels and taking
their belongings and booty. The Prophet (pbuh) gathered his people and tended to the wounded and dying.
The Muslims buried the dead and was soon returning towards Madina. They may have been beaten in this
battle but they had fought bravely and Allah had sent revelation forgiving the people who had ran from the
field.
On arrival in Madina, the Prophet (pbuh) was concerned that the Makkans might change their mind and try
attacking Madina. He again gathered the weary and injured army and headed out towards the Makkan
army. The Prophet did not allow any of the hypocrites who had absconded just before the battle to join the
army. The prophet (pbuh) made camp at a distance from Madina and rested with his weary companions.
Ma’bad bin Abi Ma’bad came to the Muslim camp and accepted Islam at the hands of the prophet (pbuh).
He asked the prophet (pbuh) what service he could do for Islam. The prophet (pbuh) asked him to ride
ahead and check on the Makkan army who were unaware of his conversion to Islam.
Ma‘bad rose quickly towards the Makkans and before very long met up with the Makkan army. He saw that
the Makkans were ready to return to Madina to fight the Muslims again but Ma‘bad discouraged them. He
warned them that Muhammad (pbuh) was ready and his army was moving towards them even as they
spoke. The Makkans were shaken by this and they hurriedly returned to Makkah.
The Muslim had suffered a major setback and now the tribes around Madina were showing a lot more
hostility towards the Muslims. There was a whole catalogue of problems awaiting them in Madina itself and

amongst the tribes around Madina.
The Hypocrites who had turned tail and had abandoned the Muslim army were now rubbing their hands
with glee. They had succeeded in causing the Muslims to suffer this setback and they were looking for the
next opportunity to weaken the Muslims again.
The Jews of Madina were extremely happy at this development and saw this as the first step to getting rid
of the Muslims. They now began hatching new ploys of undermining the Muslims and causing the
community further problems.
The tribes around Madina were confident that they could fight and beat the Muslims. They began getting
their armies together as well with the hope of attacking Madina. The once invincible Muslims now seemed
like an easy target for everyone as plans were being formed all over Arabia against the Muslims.
As the weary Muslims returned to Madina after Uhud, the whole landscape was different and the
challenges facing them were as great as the trial they had just endured. How will they cope against these
new problems? Next time Insha-Allah.
28. DOUBLE TRAGEDY

The Muslims of Madina had just finished a gruelling battle against the Makkans as they defended Madina
from their aggression. The Muslims suffered some losses and were forced to retreat when the Makkans
made a counter strike, just as the Muslims were winning the battle. The archers who were defending the
rear side of the Muslim forces had left their post, thinking that the battle was over. The Makkan cavalry saw
this weakness and quickly exploited it causing havoc in the Muslims ranks.
However, the Muslims had managed to regroup and rally around the Prophet (pbuh). They even chased
after the Makkan army in case they change their minds and returned to fight the Muslims again.
The news of the Muslim’s ‘defeat’ had reached Madina and there were many groups who were ecstatic
about the Muslim losses. The two main groups were the Jews of Madina and the Hypocrites. Both of these
groups had enjoyed the peace Islam had brought to Madina but deep down they wanted nothing more
than the Muslims to be crushed by the Makkans.
The Jews openly expressed their happiness of the Muslim losses and took this opportunity to invent lies
against the Prophet (pbuh). They began to say that Muhammad (pbuh) was no more than an impostor and
began to say some nasty things against him.
The hypocrites in Madina celebrated the defeat of the Muslims at Uhud. They openly boasted that they had

walked away from the battlefield even though this had been a cowardly act. They encourage the people in
Madina to leave Islam saying that Muhammad (pbuh) was no more than a normal leader. However, the
Muslims knew better – he was the true messenger of Allah for all humanity.
One of the results of Uhud was that many tribes around Madina were now thinking about attacking the
Muslims and began planning their own raids on Madina. Previously, the Muslims had seemed invincible but
now this image had been shattered in their minds. This ill-will and hostility had become a major menace to
peace in Madina.
When finally the heroic Muslims returned to Madina; this was the atmosphere they were welcomed with.
They were utterly exhausted by the fighting and the long marches they endured. Many of the Muslims were
injured and nursing wounds. However, despite this, they were ready to defend Islam and their community
by following the command of their beloved Prophet (pbuh).
The news reached the Prophet (pbuh) that the Bedouins were recruiting an army to attack Madina. The
Prophet (pbuh) immediately despatched a small force to face this new enemy. About 150 Muslims were
despatched under the leadership of Abu Salamah. When the Bedouins heard the news that a Muslim army
had been sent, they immediately ran away leaving everything behind.
In this whole episode, the only casualty was Abu Salamah who had been injured at Uhud. His injuries
became infected and the wounds opened up. He was in urgent need of medical attention. Despite the best
efforts and care provided by his Muslim companions, the injuries were too great and soon Abu Salamah
passed away. He had been a well-respected, loved and pious Muslim.
There were other such small skirmishes that had similar results. Before very long, the forces hostile to the
Muslims had been beaten and peace was restored. However, this peace wouldn’t last long and was
shattered by two horrific events of treachery and deceit. These events saw a new type of evil which led to
the death of some very pious and learned Muslims.
A mixed delegation came to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) requesting him to send some Muslims to teach
their tribes about Islam. After considering their request, Muhammad (pbuh) sent with them some
knowledgeable Muslims. However, this delegation had no intention of learning about Islam from these
Muslims but had other more sinister motives.
As the small group reached a place called al-Raji. The tribe of Abu Lihyan were already waiting to ambush
the Muslims with 100 archers. The tribe attacked the Muslims who were all killed in the fighting apart from
two Muslims – Khubaib and Zaid bin Ad Dathna. The tribes arrested these two Muslim so that they could
sell them to the Makkans.

These prisoners knew that the Makkans would not show them any mercy or compassion and they would be
facing death soon. The Makkans would take revenge on them for the deaths of their comrades in the battle
of Badr. Both these Muslims had fought in the battle against the Makkans at Badr. The Makkan tribes would
be ready to pay a handsome price so that they could witness the death of this two brave youngsters.
On arrival in Makkah, Khubaib was the first to be taken for crucifixion to a place outside Makkah called at
Tan’im. They allowed Khubaib to make a final prayer and he prayed two Rakahs. He turned to the
executioner after salah and said that he would have prayed longer but he did not want them to think that
he was afraid to die.
Abu Sufyan stepped forward and asked “Would you not wish that Muhammad (pbuh) was here and you
were safe with your family?” Khubaib replied that he wish that Muhammad wasn’t even hurt by a thorn
whilst he (Khubaib) was safe with his family! Abu Safyan was shocked at how much love and respect the
people had for Muhammad (pbuh).
Zaid bin Ad Dathna was purchased and murdered by Safwan bin Omaiyah in revenge for the death of his
father. This was another cold-blooded execution that saw the end of another pious Muslims at the hands of
the Makkans.
Shortly after this appalling incident at al-Raji, another delegation came to visit the Muslims in Madina. Their
spokesman, Abu Bara, requested that a small group of Muslims should be sent to the people of Najd to
teach them about Islam This time Abu Bara gave his personal protection and promise to the Prophet (pbuh)
saying that the Muslims would not be hurt.
The Prophet (pbuh) initially was very reluctant and concerned that there might be sinister motives behind
this request. The death of the last group of Muslims was still fresh in everyone’s mind.
After much consultation and guarantees of protection from Abu Bara who headed this delegation, the
Prophet (pbuh) decided to send forty or so Muslims to teach the people of Najd about Islam. On the way,
they passed through the locality of Bani Saleem and Bani ‘Amir. This tribe did not honour the guarantee and
protection given by Abu Bara and decided to attack the Muslim. They were encouraged by Amir bin at-
Tufail to quickly armed themselves and lay waiting for the Muslims.
The Muslims were unaware of any possible hostilities. They would travel during the day and pray during the
night. They were a very peaceful and learned people, many of whom had learned directly from Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh). The Bani Saleem attacked this peaceful group at a place near Ma’una well. This time
the enemy had no intention of taking Muslims prisoners but instead wanted to murder them all.

The Muslims were on a peace mission to teach about Islam and were not prepared for battles. However,
they fought of these aggressors with the customary bravery and acts of great heroism. However, this bigger
and well-armed army overpowered them.
The fact that the protection offered by Abu Bara had not been enforced was also a shock which went
against the honour of Arabs. The Muslims were now reeling from this second shameless act of aggression.
Amr bin Omaiyah and Al-Mundir bin Ubayah were two of the survivors from this group of Sahabah who
returned to Madina with this bad news. He had been tending to the sheep whilst this battle took place.
When he returned, he saw the carnage that had taken place. However, as he returned to Madina, he
attacked and killed two men from Bani Kilab. He was angry that their tribe had been involved in the
massacre of the unarmed and peaceful Muslims.
This was also a grave mistake especially because these two people were returning from Madina under the
Prophet’s protection. The news of this massacre of the Muslims reached Madina; they were utterly
devastated by the loss of these innocent lives. When the news of the death of two innocent people reached
the Prophet (pbuh), he was very angry with Amr. The Prophet (pbuh) decided to pay the blood money in
compensation for the death of these two innocent victims.
The Muslims and the Jews had an agreement that they would jointly pay the blood money when the need
arose. The Prophet (pbuh) decided to visit Bani Nadeer to collect this money. Little did anyone know that
the Bani Nadeer would try and action their own plan trying to kill the Prophet.
What would happen with this fragile peace that existed in Madina? Would Bani Nadeer succeed in their
sinister plan and how would the Muslim community react to such an act of treachery? The Bani Nadeer
were no weak tribe who had much support from groups inside Madina as well as outside communities –
would they call for an all out war against the Muslims?
29. BANI NADEER EXPULSIONS AND THE TRENCH

The cold-blooded massacre of two groups of Muslims was a horrific crime against Islam. They had been
invited by the tribes on a mission of education and peace but had been ambushed on route. They were
unarmed and had no intention of fighting whilst their attackers wanted to take advantage of their kind
nature by massacring them all.
During these events, ‘Amr Bin Omaiyah survived and made his way back to Madina. On route, he murdered
two Arabs from the tribe of ambushers although they had not taken part in the fighting. This meant that
blood money would need to be paid by the community of Madina to the tribe of Bani Kalib. This is a form of
compensation for the lives that are taken wrongly or mistakenly.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and a few of his companions set off to meet Bani Nadeer to collect a share of
the blood money. They had a treaty that if blood money needed to be paid by either party, they would
work together to raise this money. Both parties had signed this treaty and this was the first time that this
step had to be taken.
The Bani Nadeer invited Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his companions into their homes, which was in a
fortified part of Madina. They listened to the Prophet (pbuh) as he explained what happened and the need
for this money to be raised. They then asked the Prophet (pbuh) to remain seated near the wall whilst they
went upstairs to discuss this amongst themselves.
The leaders already knew the details of the treaty well and that they were obliged to pay this money.
However, this was an opportunity for the Jews to rid Madina of Muhammad (pbuh); after all Muhammad
(pbuh) wasn’t armed and only had a few companions with him. They thought that it would take little effort
to attack the Prophet (pbuh) and put an end to Islam.
The leader of Bani Nadeer hatched a plan where they would throw a large millstone on the Prophet (pbuh)
as he rested against the wall. This would be certain death for the Prophet (pbuh) who was the spiritual
leader of the Muslims. Just as they had agreed to the plan and were ready to put it into action , the Prophet
(pbuh) got up and without saying a word, walked away and headed towards his own house.
The Jews became worried and asked his companions why the Prophet (pbuh) had left is such a hurry. This
also confused the companions and they replied that they too did not know.
The Prophet (pbuh) returned to the Muslim area of Madina and revealed to the Muslims what had
happened. He told them that the Angel Jibrael had revealed to him the details of an assassination plot by
Bani Nadeer and that’s why he had left in such a hurry from there. The Muslims were all horrified,
especially because this was treachery of the highest order. This went against the code of conduct of the
Arabs and against all their treaties and agreements.
A message was sent to Bani Nadeer to leave Madina for this was an act of treachery and breaking of the
treaty. The Muslims waited patiently for the reply from Bani Nadeer, the answer to which could either
mean a war between them both or Bani Nadeer leaving Madina.
Bani Nadeer had already decided that they would surrender and leave Madina. They had made the mistake
and broken the treaty with the Muslims. They were in the wrong. However, Abdullah ibn Ubaya, the leader
of the hypocrites told Bani Nadeer that he would support them along with many of his followers. If needed
they would come to their rescue with hundreds of fighters along with other Jewish tribes such as Bani
Quraizah.
The Jews began to rethink their situation. They had a great advantage because their quarters were fortified
and any enemy would find it difficult to attack them. Bani Nadeer was also well-armed and were
experienced fighters through the many battles they had fought in the past. They now had the backing of

many allies who would help them if fighting broke out. They decided that they would stay and fight the
Muslims.
This message was sent to the Prophet (pbuh) and he ordered the Muslims to gather their forces and march
onto Bani Nadeer. When this command was given, the Muslims immediately rushed to prepare for war and
before very long they were ready to march. The Muslims began their march to Bani Nadeer through the
streets of Madina. When the Muslims reached Bani Nadeer they found that the Jews had fortified their
position and were also ready for battle.
Bani Nadeer attacked the Muslims by shooting arrows and throwing rocks at them from their forts. The
Muslims were in a very weak position and the trees that surrounded Bani Nadeer’s forts, were a nuisance
which prevented them from counter attacking. Despite this, the Muslims fought bravely and counter
attacked as best as they could.
The command was given to cut down the trees and Bani Nadeer were under siege with many small
skirmishes between both parties. As the week dragged on, Bani Nadeer became worried, especially since
there were no signs of the promised reinforcements from the hypocrites and other tribes. Allah put fear
inside their hearts and soon Bani Nadeer wanted an end to this siege. The siege had only lasted for a few
days and there were very few casualties from either side.
A peace deal was decided and Bani Nadeer were banished from Madina. They were allowed to carry their
wealth upon their camels with the exception of weapons. Bani Nadeer took their wealth and left Madina
never to return. They settled in Syria and made a fresh start there. A few of them settled inside other
Jewish communities in Arabia.
This battle had only lasted a few days but Madina was rid of this troublesome tribe who had caused so
much friction amongst the people of Madina. There was now peace and everyone was happy with the
outcome.
After this battle, some Bedouins and other tribes would start amassing troops to attack Madina. However,
the Prophet (pbuh) would dispatch some men who would dispel these small groups of rebels and
troublemakers.
The Muslims camped at Badr for a few days before returning as champions, even though no fighting had
taken place. Badr was famous for their markets and during their stay the Muslims managed to do plenty of
business. This had been a highly successful expedition for the Muslims, which left the Makkans even more
hell-bent on attacking the Muslims.
Peace was restored in Madina and the Muslims lived in harmony with the freedom to follow their Deen.
However, this was not the end of this episode as a delegation of Jews travelled to Makkah to encourage
them to raise another army to fight the Muslims. They offered their full support in such an attack as well as

promises of many more tribes joining them. The Makkans already had a score to settle with the Muslims
and were very eager to join this campaign.
This delegation travelled far and wide, encouraging many other tribes to join them in this final showdown
with the Muslims. Soon the foundations were laid for the biggest army seen in Arabia to descend upon
Madina. At a secret time, all the armies would meet in a location just outside Madina and then attack the
Muslims. They also had the advantage of a surprise attack, which would mean that the Muslims wouldn’t
have time to make preparations to defend themselves.
As the Makkans started making preparation to mobilize their forces, news of this impending invasion was
sent to the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet (pbuh) quickly called a meeting of the prominent Muslims to
consult tactics against such a huge army. This army was bigger and better armed than anything they had
ever faced before. This was the biggest army the Muslims had ever seen and indeed the biggest army that
had been raised in Arabia.
After much discussion, Salman Farsi suggested that a trench be dug between the two armies. It would be at
a strategic point which would prevent the army attacking the Muslims. Madina was well protected from
three sides by mountains and forts of the different tribes in Madina. The trench would only need to be dug
on the north side, which would be enough to defend Madina.
The Muslims immediately put this plan into action as they quickly began assigning different jobs out
amongst themselves. They divided themselves into groups of ten with each group digging one section of
the trench. It had to be wide and deep enough so that the army could not penetrate it. This in itself was no
easy task in such a short time. It would require hard work from all quarters of the Muslim community for
the trench to be completed on time.
The Muslims hurried and started work with the hope of finishing the trench before the enemy arrived. They
had news that the armies had already begun the long march to Madina and would be there in a matter of
days. The work was very difficult but the Muslims put their heart into it, working through the hot midday
sun and long into the night.
During the digging of the trenches, even the Prophet (pbuh) was involved in the hard work of labour. He
would dig the trench as well as carry the sand and rocks on his shoulders. The Muslims struggled on, even
though there was a shortage of food and other supplies.
In one incident, a companion complained to the Prophet about the extreme hunger he was suffering. He
showed the Prophet (pbuh) that he had tied a rock to his stomach to subdue the pain of hunger. The
Prophet (pbuh) also lifted his shirt and revealed to him that he had two rocks tied to his stomach. The
Prophet (pbuh) was suffering like the rest of his companions as well as working shoulder to shoulder with
them.

One of the companions, Jabir bin Abdullah, invited the Prophet (pbuh) to join him in a meal of meat and
barley. There must have been enough food for about ten people. The Prophet (pbuh) invited the rest of the
Muslims. Jabir watched in astonishment as group after group of people came and ate from the same food.
When everyone had eaten their fill, he noticed that the food remained the same as if no one had eaten it.
This was a miracle of the Prophet (pbuh).
A similar incident took place when a lady brought some dates to the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet (pbuh)
spread the dates out over a cloth and asked the people to eat from them. Before long, the cloth was
overflowing with dates and all the Muslims managed to eat from this blessed food.
During the digging of the trench, one group of diggers came across a problem which they could not solve. A
huge boulder prevented them from digging any further and despite their best efforts; they could not move
it nor break it. They called upon the Prophet (pbuh) to come and advise them.
The Prophet (pbuh) took a pickaxe and hit the rock with all his might three times before it broke into tiny
pieces. On each strike, there was a spark and the Prophet (pbuh) said a few words. When the people asked
the Prophet about this. He explained that after the first strike, he had seen the palaces of sham which
meant that the Muslims would conquer Syria. After the second strike he had seen the palaces of Persia
which meant the Muslims would conquer Persia. After the Third strike, the Prophet (pbuh) saw the gates of
Sana which meant that the Muslims would conquer Yemen.
These visions were like prophecies that foretold some of the many successes the Muslims would achieve in
the future. Despite the fact that the Muslim numbers were small and they were facing a formidable army,
the Muslims were pleased with these glad tidings.
The trench was finally completed as the huge armies of the Kuffar approached Madina. Would the trench
prevent the Army from attacking the Muslims or would this be a minor obstacle for this huge army? Would
the Muslims be able to last a long siege, even though their supplies were low and many were suffering from
hunger? How would the Hypocrites fare in the battle? Would they double cross the Muslims like at Uhud or
would they stand and fight with their Muslim comrades? Would the Bani Quraizah honour the treaty
between them and the Muslims by defending against the enemies or would they let them into Madina
through their forts?
These were all compelling questions that were running through the minds of the Muslims as they faced this
huge army sitting by their doorstep, ready to attack them. The Muslims had been promised victory even
though the Arab army was equally confident of victory. The outcome of this battle will be revealed next
time, Insha’Allah.

30. THE BATTLE OF THE TRENCHES
The two great armies faced each other across the battlefield. On one side were the Muslims of Madina who
were much smaller in number but were now fighting for; their very survival. On the other side were the
army of the Kuffar which was made up of many different tribes gathered from all over Arabia. The army
included Quraish, Gatfan and other Jewish and Arab tribes. This huge army was much bigger than the whole
Muslim population.
Between the two armies was a trench (Khandak in Arabic). It had just been completed by the Muslims as
their only means of defence against the Kuffar. This was not a common tactic used by the Arabs so the
Kuffar were unsure how they would contend with it. It was deep enough and wide enough to be a
formidable barrier against any army.
The Kuffar tried their best to cross the trench so that they could march onto Madina. However, the Muslims
repelled all their attacks and attempts to cross the trench by shooting arrows at them. There were many
attempts made by the Kuffar but none were successful. There was a narrow section in the trench where
some Kuffar forces managed to break through. They took control of that small area and their leader ‘Amr
bin ‘Abd-e-Wudd demanded a man-to-man battle with a Muslim fighter.
Ali stepped forward and quickly finished ‘Amr causing the small group of Kuffar to retreat. The Muslims
soon had re-gained this area that the Kuffar had occupied. The battle continued for days with more futile
attempts to cross the trench by the Kuffar. The Muslim were utterly exhausted in defending Madina but
despite this they continued fighting. The Kuffar had resigned to the fact that they would not be able to
cross the trenches so they laid siege to Madina, preventing supplies entering Madina. It was only a matter
of time before the Muslims would begin to starve.
The Kuffar did not rest in this siege but tried many new tactics to penetrate Madina and attack the Muslim
forces through volleys of arrows. The Muslims held onto their position and braved these difficult and trying
circumstances.
The Muslims would often be late for Salah and would need to pray them late. In one incident, Umar cursed
the Kuffar army because they had caused him to miss his Asr Salah. The fighting had been so intense that
day that the Prophet (pbuh) prayed the Asr Salah (mid Afternoon prayer) after sunset followed by the
Maghrib Salah, the sunset prayer.
As the days dragged on, things had become very difficult with morale extremely low amongst the Muslims.
However, they still defended with such gallantry and bravery that the Kuffar were unable to cross the
trenches and enter Madina.
The Jewish tribes decided that they would try their own tactics and went to see Bani Quraizah, their allies in
the past. Bani Quraizah would not even let them into their forts let alone join them in battle. After some

coaxing from the K’ab bin Asad - the former leader of Bani Nadir, Bani Quraizah finally let them into the fort
to listen to their proposals.
The Jews said that this was the best opportunity to attack the Muslims who had concentrated all their
defences on the northern side. If the Kuffar had access through their forts, they would attack them from
behind and crush the Muslims. The women and children were located in this part of Madina so there would
be no resistance from anyone.
Bani Quraizah were not convinced, they had seen the success Allah had granted the Prophet (pbuh) in the
past and they knew that this would be treachery of the highest order. However, after lots of coaxing, the
sweet words of K’ab and other delegates convinced Bani Quraizah that the Muslims would not stand a
chance against their attacks. All the Kuffar army needed was a way of getting into Madina and then the
Muslims would be decisively finished.
Bani Quraizah finally decided to accept their offer and side with the Kuffar army. They began to make
preparations for battle against the Muslims. This move would leave the Muslims defences wide open. The
second front would make defending Madina impossible and defeat for the Muslims would be imminent.
The rumours were now spreading that Bani Quraizah were preparing for war, which was one of their worst
fears. It was in breach of the treaty the Muslims had with Bani Quraizah who were suppose to help the
Muslims defend Madina and not help the enemy. The Muslims were already utterly exhausted in defending
their position and were submerged in difficulties. This was a test of character and nerves for the Muslims.
The Prophet (pbuh) commanded some of his trusted companions to investigate if there was any truth in the
rumours that Bani Quraizah were preparing to fight them. After making some discrete investigations they
returned to inform the Prophet (pbuh) of the bad news. This came as a shock to the Muslims who they
were shaken by this disastrous news. However, despite everything stacked against them they knew that
Allah had promised them victory and they would surely succeed.
Safiyah, the aunt of the Prophet (pbuh) saw a Bani Quraizah warrior wandering about outside their
quarters. In these quarters, there were only women and children but had no men guarding. Every able man
was needed on the battlefront to defend Madina and fight off the Kuffar army. In fact, the only man in
these quarters was the elderly Hassan.
Safiyah told Hassan to go and finish off the warrior lurking about outside. He refused saying that he was too
old to fight. Safiyah herself went outside and attacked the lone warrior with a piece of wood. Soon the
warrior was dead so Safiyah told the elderly Hassan to check his clothes and remove his weapons. Hassan
again refused saying he was too old so Safiyah did it herself. She then threw the body over the wall which
made Bani Quraizah think that this area was also well guarded.

This act of bravery was a deterrent to anyone thinking of attacking the Muslim position from behind. Bani
Quraizah had been sure that this place was unguarded but this casualty put doubts in their minds so they
were reluctant to attack. However, they continued to send supplies to the Kuffar army who were camping
outside the trench.
When the rumour of the Bani Quraizah reached the Hypocrites they began to play their usual games. They
took this opportunity to weaken the Muslim ranks by mocking them about the prediction that they would
conquer the Persians, Syria and Yemen. How could they conquer such super powers when they were almost
defeated now!
The Hypocrites announced that they were retreating back to their homes to defend their women and
children. This left the Muslims army weakened on the battle front, just as it had been weakened at Uhud
with their departure. The situation was dire and the morale of the Muslim army was greatly reduced.
Despite this, the Muslims remained steadfast and watched the Hypocrites retreat from the battlefront for
the second time.
The Prophet (pbuh) was concerned and thought how the Kuffar could be persuaded to leave or their ranks
broken. Could Bani Ghatfan be persuaded to return to their homes, which would weaken the Kuffar army.
The Prophet (pbuh) consulted Sa’d bin Mu’adh about offering the Ghatfan a share of the date harvest in
return for them leaving the battle.
Sa’d had many dealings with the Ghatafan tribe and knew them well. He said that Bani Ghatfan did not
need their harvest and only wanted to defeat the Muslims. This concession from the Muslims of sharing a
harvest would was unlikely to persuade them to leave the battlefield. Sa’d advised in continuing with the
battle and let Allah open a path to victory.
A short while later, one of the warriors from the Kuffar army, Na’im bin Masud, sneaked across the trench
and came to the Prophet (pbuh). He had accepted Islam in secrecy and was now a Muslim. He asked the
Prophet (pbuh) how he could help the Muslims in their time of need. The Kuffar were not aware of his
conversion to Islam, which he could use to his advantage.
After consulting the Prophet (pbuh), he returned to the Kuffar to try and cause distrust between them and
break them up. This would break their resolve and would force them to return to their homes. He went to
Bani Quraizah first and said that the Quraish were planning on leaving the battle and no longer wanted to
fight. They would leave Bani Quraizah to face the Muslims once it was over. He told them not to trust the
Quraish and to ask for hostages from their nobles as a sign of their willingness to fight. He parted from Bani
Quraizah telling them that he was their friend and to keep this conversation secret.
Na’im then went to the Quraish and said that the Bani Quraizah are regretting turning against the Muslims.
He said that they no longer wanted to fight but wanted to hand over some of the nobles of Quraish as
compensation to the Muslims. He advised them not to trust Bani Quraizah and also request that this

conversation be kept secret.
He went to the Ghatfan and did a similar sort of trick which caused them to doubt the other parties. This
divided the different tribes who began to see everyone intentions in a different light.
A delegation of Quraish and Ghatfan went to see the Bani Quraizah and told them to prepare for a major
offensive against the Muslims the following day. The Bani Quraizah refused saying that it was against their
religion to fight on Saturday. The Makkans felt that the Jews no longer had the will to fight and wanted to
make amends with the Muslims. Bani Quraizah then asked for a few of their dignitaries as reassurance to
prove their desire to fight.
The Makkans were sure that Bani Quraizah were trying to trick them and wanted the prisoners so that they
could hand them over to the Muslims. When both the parties left there was a feeling of mistrust and
double crossing. This was the objective that Na’im wanted to achieve as the resolve of the kuffar army was
finally broken.
Allah sent strong winds that turned over the cooking pots of the Kuffar army and blew their tents down.
The weather was so cold and uncomfortable that they couldn’t wait to leave the battle. As dawn broke,
they began to prepare for marching back. Before long the armies started to leave Madina and return home.
The Muslim were also suffering from the cold and strong winds. They were so exhausted that they did not
want to move either. When the Prophet (pbuh) asked for a volunteer to check on the Makkan army no one
came forward. The Prophet (pbuh) commanded Hudaifah to go and check on the Kuffar army. Although
Hudaifah bin Al-Yaman was very tired, hungry and cold, he immediately got up and checked on the Kuffar
army. He returned with the good news of their departure and the Muslims thanked Allah for this clear
victory.
After thanking Allah for his blessing and favours, the Muslims too began to return to their homes. As the
weary Muslims returned, the Angel Jibrael came to the Prophet (pbuh) and asked him why he was
removing his armour. He said the angels still had their armour and were ready to march onto Bani Quraizah
for their treachery.
The Angel departed saying that they were going ahead and would shake the forts of Bani Quraizah, instilling
fear into their hearts. The Prophet (pbuh) commanded his men to get ready for battle and march to Bani
Quraizah.
Would the weary Muslim army respond to the call of their Prophet (pbuh)? What would the outcome of
this battle be? Would Bani Quraizah put up a good fight and beat the already weakened and weary
Muslims? Bani Quraizah were well stocked up with supplies, which could last months.
The outcome of this battle might not be as straight forward, all will be revealed next time, Insha’Allah.

31. BEYOND KHANDAK
The Muslims had just managed to drive away one of the biggest armies they had ever faced. This army had
the sole intention of crushing the Muslims of Madina and ending the religion of Islam. The Muslims had
strengthened their defences by digging a huge trench that stopped the enemy in their tracks. The army
tried its best to cross and attack Madina but the Muslims fought them off with their customary bravery.
Bani Quraizah lived within Madina and towards the end of the battle; they joined the ranks of the enemy to
fight against the Muslims. This opened a second front against the Muslims. These actions considerably
weakened the Muslims and could easily have caused the downfall of Madina. Bani Quraizah had a treaty
with the Muslims of working together to defend Madina against any aggressors. They had broken this
treaty at its most critical time.
The army of the kuffar became divided and Allah sent strong winds which destroyed their resolve to fight
the Muslims. The army departed the following morning leaving Bani Quraizah to face the consequences of
their treachery.
As the Muslims returned to their homes, the Angel Jibrael came to the Prophet (pbuh) and told him to join
the angels in fighting against the Bani Quraizah. The Angels went ahead to shake Bani Quraizah, putting fear
into their hearts. The Muslims followed behind to fight them because of their treachery and breach of the
treaty.
The Prophet (pbuh) gathered all the Muslims and announced to make immediate preparation for battle.
The Muslims began to quickly gather their forces and head towards Bani Quraizah. The Prophet (pbuh)
appointed Ali head the army into battle.
The Muslims marched to Bani Quraizah’s quarters, which was a fortified city. It would be difficult to fight
Bani Quraizah there because it was well protected and had ample supplies that could last for many months.
Bani Quraizah had plenty of weaponry and armed men, which would make them a formidable opponent for
any army.
The Muslims laid siege to the Bani Quraizah’s quarters with many short skirmishes taking place. Bani
Quraizah considered the options available to them and decided to speak to some of the Muslims who had
maintained good relationship with them in the past. Bani Quraizah invited Abu Lubaba to their quarters and
put on a display of despair. The crying and mourning of the people moved Abu Lubaba so when Bani
Quraizah asked him what would happen to them, he pointed to his throat. This signalled that they would be
killed in this ensuing battle and its aftermath.
Abu Lubaba immediately realised his mistake and went to the Prophet’s mosque. He tied himself to the
wooden post and refused to leave until Allah forgave him for his mistake of leaking information. He
remained there for a few days and would only be untied by his wife for prayers and eating food.

The siege had lasted for a few days now and Bani Quraizah were very worried about the possible outcome.
They considered all the options available to them. They considered killing all their women and children so
that they had nothing to live for. Then they would fight to the death. They also thought about launching a
surprise attack on the Saturday, which was normally a day that Jews would not fight. They also considered
becoming Muslims so that they could be freed from their previous sins.
They were indecisive so they spoke to the Muslims and asked for a truce. They wanted someone to be
judge between the two parties in this situation. Sa’d bin Muadh was proposed and both sides accepted him
as judge. Both parties would be bound by his decision. In the past, Sa’d bin Muadh was a great ally of Bani
Quraizah and was known to be a just and wise person. However, he was not present because he had been
injured in the battle of the trenches.
Sa’d was escorted to the battlefield still very weak and ill from his wounds. He insisted on both parties to
abide by his judgement, regardless of whose favour it would be in. After considering the situation, he
judged that Bani Quraizah should be put to death for their treachery and double-crossing during the battle
of the trenches. All the men should be put to death and the women and children should be sold into
slavery. This judgment was made in accordance to the law of the Tawrah.
This command was carried out and Bani Quraizah no longer remained a part of Madina. The women and
children were sold into slavery, which was the final end to the whole incident. The Muslims then finally
rested after these hectic and testing weeks of battle.
After Bani Quraizah affair, an important chapter was closed in the history of Islam. Many people who had
created problems and friction within Madina were finally banished. The armies of Arabia had been soundly
defeated and the Muslims had gained a great victory. There had not been many deaths in the incident but
one casualty was Sa’d bin Muadh who died from the wounds that were inflicted during the battle of the
trench.
There were still many hostile tribes around Madina and many more deep in Arabia who were a menace to
lasting peace. They were already amassing forces to ambush Muslims and attack Madina. The Prophet
(pbuh) sent a number of small forces, which often resulted in no battles but acted as a deterrent to the rest
of the Arabs. There were a few incidents in which there were small skirmishes between the Muslims and
different tribes.
The only remaining ‘enemies’ within Madina were the Hypocrites. They had lost all hope of seeing the
Muslims beaten in combat against any army in Arabia. They had seen the biggest army ever raised against
the Muslims and even they were unsuccessful. However, the hypocrites continued their mischief making,
trying to cause friction and division between the Muslims.
There was one particular incident that caused a lot of grievances within the Muslim community. It all began
during the Bani Mustalliq expedition when a Muslim force was sent to face an amassing army. During this

expedition, Aisha was accompanying the Prophet (pbuh). The expedition was a success and the enemy
retreated leaving much of the war booty behind. Soon the victorious Muslims were making the long march
back to Madina.
One their return journey, the Muslims would camp during the night and travel during the day. When they
reached close to Madina, they setup camp. Aisha had gone to answer the call of nature and had managed
to lose the necklace she was wearing. When she returned, she realised that the necklace was missing and
decided to return quickly before the caravan left.
It was quite a distance and when she retuned to the camp, the caravan had already departed for Madina.
She was devastated and hoped that someone would come back for her when they discovered she was
missing. They had loaded her litter, which was there for her privacy; on top of the camel without realising
she wasn’t inside it.
As Aisha waited patiently at the location of the old camp, she soon fell asleep. Luckily, Safwan bin Mu’athal
was coming behind the army and saw Aisha waiting in the desert. He recognised Aisha and escorted her
back to Madina. Aisha sat on the camel that was led by Safwan who walked without saying a word.
As soon as Aisha returned to Madina, the Hypocrites started to spread vicious rumours about Aisha, slurring
her good name. She was ill and bed ridden so was unaware of these slandering rumours that had circulated
about her character. When she felt better, she went to see her parents after learning about the rumours
from a woman named ume-Mistah. She was shocked that anyone could doubt her character, after all she
was the wife of the Prophet (pbuh).
When she was asked about the events, she replied that she would leave it in Allah’s hands and He would
clear her name. She was heart broken that anyone could think about her in that way and she shed many
tears. Soon a verse from the Qur’an was revealed which cleared her name. The whole community was
overjoyed and the rumours were put to rest.
Some of the Muslims involved in spreading the rumours were whipped for defaming the name of an
innocent person. The main culprit was Abdullah bin Ubai who was also the leader of the Hypocrites. He
managed to escape from punishment, even though he had spread the rumours to all quarters of Madina.
The prescribed punishment in the Qur’an is reserved for him in the hereafter.
A short while after this unfortunate episode finished, the Prophet (pbuh) had a dream in which he and his
companions were performing the Umrah. In his dream, they were shaving their hair and completing the
Umrah. This brought great joy to the Prophet (pbuh) who had left Makkan six long years ago. He had dearly
missed Makkah and the Holy Ka’bah.
The Prophet (pbuh) told the Sahabah about the dream, which was a sign that they would be performing the
Umrah to the holy city. Everyone was excited and many people began to make preparations to join the

Prophet (pbuh) in this Umrah. They gathered all their essentials for the journey as well as the sacrificial
animals for this pilgrimage.
Fifteen hundred Muslims set off from Madina to make the pilgrimage. They were not armed for battle but
only had swords for self-defence as was customary. Their swords remained in their sheaths, which was an
indication of the peaceful nature of their journey.
Makkah was still a few days of travelling away when the Quraish learned that the Muslims were coming
towards Makkah. They sent out spies to investigate the reason why the Muslims were coming. The spies
returned with the news that the Muslims were there for peaceful reasons. They explained that the Muslims
were not armed and had their animals for the sacrifice. They advised them to allow the Muslims to come in
peace and perform the pilgrimage.
The Makkans were already opposed to the Muslims and they were determined not to let the Muslims enter
into Makkah. They called for Khalid bin Walid to lead a force into battle against the Muslims. They
dispatched him immediately at the head of 200 horsemen with the intention of stopping the Muslims.
Under no circumstances were the Muslims allowed to enter Makkah.
Khalid was no ordinary commander; he was very brave and skilled in battle. He wasted no time in heading
for the unarmed Muslim pilgrims. What would be the outcome of this encounter?

The Life of Muhammad

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The Life of Muhammad

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In the Name of Allâh, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.

THE LIFE OF MUHAMMAD (PBUH)

1. THE LIFE OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD (PBUH)

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2. PROPHET IBRAHIM (AS)

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3. IBRAHIM (AS) AND THE STORY OF HAJJ

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The period before Islam is described in this poem:

Arabia is the location of this rhyme,

The Arab society, lacked law and order

The strong and ruthless ruled the tribes,

They fought over the smallest thing

Every vice and evil, they staunchly followed

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Rights and dignity they didn't respect,

The women's status was considered low.

They worshipped gods made of stone

Every civilization had passed them by

In total ignorance, the Arabs thus dwelled

It was from Arabia, the truth shone bright

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Inshallah continued next week.

5. THE YEAR OF THE ELEPHANT

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6. THE BIRTH OF MUHAMMAD AND HIS EARLY LIFE

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8. MARRIAGE AND THE REBUILDING OF THE KA'BAH

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9. PROPHETHOOD AND THE EARLY MUSLIMS

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‘Yes why not? We have always found you to be truthful’

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11. OPPOSITION TO ISLAM

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12. PERSECUTION OF THE MUSLIMS

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13. HIJRA TO ABYSSINIA (ETHIOPIA)

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