Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)

PART 1

1. LIFE IN ARABIA AND MAKKA BEFORE ISLAM

1.1 ARABIA

Arabia is situated in the Middle East. It is a country made up of barren hills, valleys and deserts. The climate is hot and dry. In Arabia there is little or no rain. Due to this there is also very little vegetation. There is not a single river to be found in the country. However, there are underground springs (Oasis) found in the desert.

Arabia is made up of many provinces and cities. The most important cities of Arabia are Makkatul Mukarramah, Madinatul Munawwarah, Ta'if and Jeddah. The date-palm is the main tree of Arabia. Yemen is a very fertile place where wheat, coffee and fruits are found in abundance. Animals such as camels, horses, sheep and goats are common. The camel is the chief means of transport and is known as the "ship of the desert."

1.2 THE PEOPLE OF ARABIA

The people of Arabia are called Arabs. The Arabs speak the language of Arabic.

Most Arabs live in towns and villages. They are merchants by trade. They bargain and sell their cloth, sweet-smelling oils and perfumes at good profits to the travellers and pilgrims who come to their city. They also trade in dates, raisins and hides.

Other Arabs live in tents in the deserts. The desert Arabs are called "Bedouins." Unlike the Meccans, they spoke pure Arabic. They are very harsh and fierce by nature. They had to be fierce and also courageous to survive the tough conditions in the desert. They often experienced powerful sandstorms. They spent the whole day under the scorching sun and spent the cold dark lonely nights under the stars. The desert Arabs were a proud people. They had a high sense of honour and were loyal to their tribes. As far as their food and water supplies were concerned, they depended much upon the rain. The Bedouins moved all the time from place to place to look for new pastures for feeding their animals.

1.3 THE QURAISH

The Arabs were divided into many tribes and clans. No king or governor ruled them. In Makkatul Mukarramah, the Quraish were the chief tribe. The Quraish had complete control of the Holy Kaaba. The leaders and members of the Quraish were responsible for the welfare of the pilgrims who came to Makkatul Mukarramah every year for pilgrimage. The Quraish were made up of a number of families of whom the Banu Hashim was the most famous.

1.4 RELIGION OF THE EARLY ARABS

The Arabs worshipped many idols. These idols were made up of wood, stone and metals. They had different sizes and shapes. Some were shaped like men. Some took the form of vultures, women and horses.

In the Holy Kaaba there were almost 365 idols belonging to the different tribes. "Hubal", "Laat", and "Uzza" were 3 of the famous idols which the Arabs prayed to. The Meccans believed that these idols had the powers to make them rich, cure them of the plague, grant them a son and to also marry them to beautiful ladies.

Arabs also prayed to the sun and the stars. Most of the Arabs believed in ghosts, devils and evil spirits. There were also many fortune-tellers amongst them.

1.5 BAD DEEDS OF THE ARABS

There were no laws in Arabia to protect the people. The Arabs did as they pleased. They did many bad deeds.

A. The father used to bury his daughter alive. He felt that having a daughter in the family was a burden.

B. Wives, widows and orphans were not treated kindly.

C. The Arabs used to gamble and drink.

D. They charged a lot of interest on the money that they lent.

E. They kept slaves to do their work. These slaves were treated worse than animals.

F. Before the coming of Islam, the Arabs fought about 132 battles with each other over small matters. These battles were called "Tribal Wars." Many lives were lost during these tribal wars.

1.6 GOOD DEEDS OF THE ARABS

The Arabs were also very kind and generous towards others. They were honest people. Arabs loved to be free. They were fearless. Most of them were very brave and loved hunting. The Arabs also had a very good memory. They were very intelligent.

2. THE HOLY KAABA IS SAVED FROM DESTRUCTION

Yemen is not very far away from Makkatul Mukarramah. The ruler of Yemen was a Christian man called Abraha. Abraha wanted to destroy the House of Almighty Allah, the Holy Kaaba.

The year in which this incident took place was 571 A.C. It was also called "The Year of the Elephant." It was also in this year that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was born.

2.1 THE HOLY KAABA

The Holy Kaaba is in Makkatul Mukarramah. It was first built by the Prophet, Sayyiduna Adam (alaihis salaam). Sayyiduna Ibrahim (alaihis salaam) and his son, Sayyiduna Isma'il (alaihis salaam), who were also Ambiya (Prophets) of Almighty Allah, rebuilt the Holy Kaaba.

The Quraish are the descendants (children) of Sayyiduna Ibrahim (alaihis salaam). They made their homes around the Holy Kaaba. It was much later that they forgot the true teachings of Sayyiduna Ibrahim (alaihis salaam) and became idol worshippers.

Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu) was the chief of the Quraish. He was also in-charge of the Holy Kaaba. He was the grandfather of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He never prayed to the idols. He prayed to Almighty Allah alone.

2.2 ABRAHA'S PLANS TO DESTROY THE HOLY KAABA

Abraha knew how famous Makkatul Mukarramah was to the traders and to the many people who flocked to the Holy Kaaba to pray to the idols. To turn the people away from the Holy Kaaba, he built a huge and beautiful temple at a place called Sanaa. He then ordered his people not to go to Makkatul Mukarramah, but to pray at the temple that he built. In spite of this, most of the people refused to listen to him. They preferred travelling to Makkatul Mukarramah and praying to the idols at the Holy Kaaba.

Abraha grew very angry. He gathered a large army of soldiers and a mighty force of elephants. He at once set off with his army to Makkatul Mukarramah to destroy the Holy Kaaba. Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu), the chief of the Quraish, heard of Abraha's plans. He ordered the people of Makkatul Mukarramah to leave the city and take refuge in the hills where they will be safe. All the Meccans immediately left the city. From the hills, they watched Abraha, who was with his army of soldiers and elephants - ready to destroy the Holy Kaaba. All that Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu) could do was to pray to Almighty Allah for His Help.

2.3 ALMIGHTY ALLAH'S HELP

Abraha marched straight into the city of Makkatul Mukarramah with his huge army to destroy the Holy Kaaba. As the army of elephants rushed towards the Holy Kaaba something strange happened. The elephants sat and refused to move!

Suddenly, the sky became black. Hundreds of birds (swallows) with pebbles in their beaks and feet swooped down on the army. They attacked Abraha's men and elephants by striking them with the pebbles at such a high speed that it went through the bodies of the men and the elephants. Most of them were killed instantly. Abraha too was eventually killed. Thus Abraha's plans to destroy the House of Allah, the Holy Kaaba, failed.

This is how Almighty Allah protected His House, the Holy Kaaba, from being destroyed by His enemies.

2.4 SURA FIL - THE ELEPHANT

Surah Fil, "The Elephant", of the Holy Quran tells us about how Almighty Allah destroyed the elephants.

2.5 THE GREATEST EVENT IN HISTORY

A few months after this incident, the greatest event in history was to take place, that is, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

There are many honourable and blessed names in addressing Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). In this book we will address him as "Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)."

3. FAMILY AND BIRTH OF SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

3.1 FAMILY OF RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) father's name is Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu). His mother's name is Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha).

Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu) was very handsome and very strong. He was one of the sons of Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu). Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu) was, therefore, the grandfather of the Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Not long after his Nikah (marriage), Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu) went on a business trip to Ash Shaam (known as Syria). On his way back to Makkatul Mukarramah, he fell ill and passed away in Madinatul Munawwarah (previously known as Yathrib).

Now that Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) lost her husband, she was especially worried about the child that was to be born. She thought about how the child was to grow up without a father. But, her worries were soon to pass.

Later, Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) had many beautiful dreams about the baby that was to be born. These dreams gave her peace and comfort. The Malaa'ikah (Angels) which she saw in her dream told her that her baby was a very great Prophet of Almighty Allah.

3.2 BIRTH OF SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

On Monday, the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal (20 April 571 A.C.), Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) gave birth to a baby boy, who was named "Muhammad" (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was born in the city of Makkatul Mukarramah.

At the time of his birth, many wonderful miracles took place around him and in other parts of the world. The birth of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the events surrounding his birth is a very historic ocassion.

3.3 BIRTH CELEBRATIONS

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was born, his grandfather was overjoyed. His grandfather took Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), who was only a week old, to the Holy Kaaba and thanked Almighty Allah. He also prepared a great feast for his grandson and invited all the Quraish leaders and to celebrate the birth of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They all attended the birth celebration of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

3.4 "THE PRAISED ONE"

His grandfather, Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu), named him "Muhammad" which means "The Praised One." Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu) said: "I desire (wish) that he be praised in the Heavens for the Sake of Allah and in the earth for the sake of creation." His mother, Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) kept his name "Ahmad."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) belonged to the Banu Hashim family of the Quraish tribe.

4. LIFE IN THE DESERT

It was the custom of some of the mothers of the chief tribes, like the Quraish, to send their new-born children to the desert villages to be raised up by the nurses. Children who lived in these desert villages grew up very healthy and strong.

The Banu Saad tribe, who lived in the desert, provided the best nurses. The ladies from this tribe would come to Makkatul Mukarramah every year and look for families who wanted to send their little children with them.

4.1 WAITING FOR THE NURSES

Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) wanted to send her child, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), to live in a desert village where he will grow up strong and healthy. There, he will learn to speak pure Arabic. On the other hand, she knew that she could not afford to pay a lot of money for a good nurse.

While Bibi Aamina (radi Allahu anha) waited for the nurses to come to Makkatul Mukarramah from the desert villages, Abu Lahab's maid, Suwaiba, took care of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) for a few days.

The day arrived when the nurses of the tribe of Banu Saad came to Makkatul Mukarramah. They took the babies of the rich Meccan families, but refused to take Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They knew that they would not receive a large sum of money for taking care of him.

4.2 BIBI HALIMA (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) - THE NURSE

Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) was one of the nurses of the Banu Saad. She came to Makkatul Mukarramah with her husband. They were very poor. She was not in good health. She had hardly enough milk for her own child. Their camel and donkey were lean and weak. No rich Quraish woman would give her child to Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) their because she looked so weak.

Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) and her husband did not want to leave the city of Makkatul Mukarramah without a child to take care of. When they heard about the child, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), they immediately went to Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha). They told Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) that they wished to take care of her child. Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha) saw that they were very kind and loving. She sent Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to live with them in the desert.

4.3 LIFE IN THE DESERT

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) now lived with Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) and her family in the desert.

How fortunate they were! The moment that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) entered their home, Almighty Allah blessed Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) and her family with everything. Her sheep grew fat and gave her more milk. Her flocks began to increase. She also gathered a better harvest. The family loved Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) very much and took good care of him. They also knew that all the blessings that they received was because of the Barakah (blessings) of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 2 years old, Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) took him back to his mother in the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. His mother was very pleased to see him growing strong and healthy so she sent him back to stay in the desert. Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) was overjoyed to take care of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Thus, he spent full 5 years with Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha). She was the foster-mother of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

4.4 STRANGE HAPPENINGS

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was a little older, he used to accompany Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha's) children to the fields. They tended the herds of animals in the fields. The children noticed strange happenings wherever they accompanied Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They used to notice the stones making Salaams to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They also noticed the trees bending down towards him in respect.

One day, while Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was in the field with the children, two strangers - dressed all in white like Angels - appeared out of nowhere. They laid down Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) on the ground. They then opened his chest and filled his heart with the Nur (Light) of Allah. They closed his chest again, and disappeared.

Bibi Aminah (radi Allahu anha's) children noticed this event and ran home to tell their parents.

5. SAD CHILDHOOD

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now almost 6 years old. After spending all these years in the desert and in the home of his foster-mother, Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha) decided to take Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) back to the city. He was soon home with his mother in Makkatul Mukarramah.

His mother then decided to take him to Madinatul Munawwarah (Yathrib) to visit his relatives and to show him his father's grave. They set out for Yathrib with, Umm-e-Aiman, their servant. From this we learn that it is Sunnah to visit the grave of parents and other Awliya Allah.

5.1 BIBI AMINAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA) PASSES AWAY

After visiting the places in Madinatul Munawwarah they made preparations to return home. On their way home, Bibi Aamina (radi Allahu anha) fell very ill. She did not recover from her illness, but passed away at a place called Al Abwa, not far from Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had neither of his parents to look after him. The servant, Umm-e-Aiman, took him home to his grandfather.

5.2 GRANDFATHER PASSES AWAY

Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib (radi Allahu anhu) now takes care of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He loved his grandson very much and paid special attention to him. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 8 years old, his grandfather passed away at the age of 82. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now very lonely and very sad.

5.3 UNDER THE CARE OF ABU TAALIB

His uncle, Abu Taalib, took him to his house. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) grew up under the care of his loving uncle, Abu Taalib. He loved his uncle very much. He stayed close to him all the time. He listened to him and respected him.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had a loving nature. Everyone in Makkatul Mukarramah and the traders who came to the city liked him. He did not fight with the other children and was always fair. He never used bad languages. He always spoke the truth.

There were no schools in Arabia at that time. Few people could read or write. There was no need for Abu Taalib to send his nephew to school because Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was a born Prophet of Almighty Allah. Almighty Allah educated him directly. So Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not go to school. Yet, he became the greatest teacher in the history of the world!

6. JOURNEY TO ASH SHAAM

Abu Taalib was a merchant. But, he was not a very successful merchant. He had many children of his own and was not wealthy. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) worked very hard to help his uncle in whatever small way he could.

6.1 JOURNEY TO ASH SHAAM

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 12 years old, Abu Taalib decided to go on a business trip to Ash Shaam (Syria).

As a nation of traders, the Arabs often took caravans of goods to other places. These "caravans" were made of camels and donkeys which were used to carry the goods that the Arabs traded with.

Abu Taalib joined one of these caravans hoping to sell his goods in another country. Fearing the roads to be dangerous, Abu Taalib decided against taking his nephew on the long trip. But, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) pleaded with his uncle to take him to Ash Shaam. Abu Taalib finally agreed.

This was Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) first trip to Ash Shaam. Uncle and nephew travelled together with the caravan until they reached the city of Basra, which was south of Ash Shaam.

6.2 MEETING WITH BAHIRA

Unnoticed by the Arabs, a very learned Christian Priest by the name of Bahira was observing the caravan as it came into the city of Basra. He at once approached the travellers and invited the men of the Quraish tribe to be guests at his home. He quickly made preparations for them to partake in a meal.

While they were partaking in the meals provided, Bahira kept on staring at Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Bahira saw how noble looking he was, in spite of his youth, and how polite and humble he was. He spoke to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He discovered certain signs in Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that indicated that he was going to be the last and Final Prophet of Almighty Allah.

He asked Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to lift up his shirt. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) lifted up his shirt for Bahira, Bahira saw the Seal of Prophethood on young Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) back. Bahira and kissed the Seal. Bahira had also noticed that a cloud always followed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and sheltered him from the hot sun.

This Christian Priest advised Abu Taalib to return to Makkatul Mukarramah and to keep a watchful eye on Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He told Abu Taalib to also guard Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) from the Jews, who will attempt to kill him if they found out who he was.

After trading in Basra and making good profits, the caravan returned to Makkatul Mukarramah.

7. RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM'S) PARTICIPATION IN THE AFFAIRS OF HIS SOCIETY

7.1 HARBUL FIJR

The Arab tribes fought with each other all the time. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 15 years old, he witnessed a war fought between the Quraish and Hawazeen tribes. This war lasted for 4 years and was known as "Harbul Fijr" or "Unholy War."

As Abu Taalib was from the Quraish, he had to partake in the war to defend his tribe. During this war, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) never harmed or killed anyone. He used to pick up the stray arrows shot by the enemy and hand them to his uncle, Abu Taalib. In fact, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not see the sense of the Arabs fighting each other. He wanted to stop the wars and the killings.

7.2 HALFIL FUDHUL

The leaders of the tribes decided that all these petty wars between themselves had to come to an end. A society called the "Halfil Fudhul" or "Alliance of Charity" was formed to bring an end to the wars. This society was to also help the widows and the orphans.

The Quraish made peace treaties with the other Arab tribes. The treaty stated that they will live in peace with everyone and help the poor and the needy.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gladly accepted this treaty. He worked very hard to help the poor, the needy, the orphans and those who were in debt.

The treaty turned out to be very successful. No more fighting took place between the tribes. Makkatul Mukarramah was once again a city of peace. It became an important business centre with the result that the Quraish were becoming very prosperous.

8. RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM) AS A MERCHANT

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now 20 years old. He felt it necessary to make his own living and relieve the burden from his uncle, Abu Taalib.

8.1 "AL AMEEN" AND "AS SAADIQ"

He had become a successful merchant; not so much because he liked his work, but because he was honest in his dealings and could be trusted. He never overpriced his goods, nor weighed his goods incorrectly so as to cheat others.

He earned the reputation of being the most honest and fair merchant of the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) soon earned the title of "Al Ameen" (The Trustworthy) and "As Saadiq" (The Truthful) from the people of Makkatul Mukarramah.

8.2 WORKS FOR BIBI KHADIJAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA)

In the course of managing his business affairs and helping his uncle, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received an offer from a wealthy widow, Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha). She wanted him to look after her business. Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) was a very noble lady. Khuwailid was her father. Her mother was Fathima bin Zaidah.

She heard how respected and honest Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was. She hoped that in employing him, her business will be a success. She also promised to give Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) a double share in the profits. He gladly accepted her business offer.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) worked very hard to make the business a success. Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) had given him the management of all her caravans. He spent his time travelling across deserts and through oases to distant lands selling the goods.

8.3 SECOND TRIP TO ASH SHAAM

On one ocassion, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) set out for Ash Shaam (Syria) to sell Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha's) goods. Her male servant, Maysara, accompanied him. This was Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) second business trip to Ash Shaam.

His trip to Ash Shaam was very successful. He sold all the goods that he had taken on the caravan. He then bought what was required and was soon on his way to Makkatul Mukarramah.

Through his intelligence, skill and honesty he made huge profits for Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha). It was almost double what anyone had earned for her in the past. She, in turn, was very pleased.

During the journey, Maysara noticed that a cloud provided Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with shade wherever he went.

8.4 PHYSICAL FEATURES OF RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was a handsome man of medium built - neither very tall nor short. He had a large head, very black thick hair, a wide forehead, heavy eye brows and large dark eyes with long eye lashes. He had a fine nose, well placed teeth, a thick beard, a long handsome neck and a wide chest and shoulders. His skin was light coloured. He walked steadily with firm steps. His appearance had a mask of deep thought and contemplation. His eyes gave a feeling of the authority of a commander.

9. MARRIAGE TO BIBI KHADIJAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA)

9.1 MARRIAGE PROPOSAL

Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha's) male servant, Maysara, told her all about Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) successful business dealings. He also told her about the cloud that hung directly above Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) blessed head.

Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) was very impressed by what she heard. She sent Maysarah to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with a marriage proposal. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) first took advice from his uncle, Abu Taalib. When his uncle agreed to the marriage proposal, the Nikah was then performed.

Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) was 40 years old and Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 25 years old.

9.2 MARRIAGE TO BIBI KHADIJAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA)

After their Nikah, all of Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha's) wealth belonged to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) also gave him her slave, Sayyiduna Zaid (radi Allahu anhu). Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave him his freedom.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) used his wealth to help the poor and the needy. He never forgot the orphans and the widows. He paid off peoples debts and freed many slaves.

At the same time, he never neglected his family. He led a very simple and humble life. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spent a lot of time remembering Almighty Allah. His foster-mother, Bibi Halima (radi Allahu anha), used to visit him. He treated her with a lot of respect.

9.3 CHILDREN OF RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) had 6 children - 2 sons and 4 daughters :

(A) His sons were Sayyiduna Qasim and Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhum). Both of them passed away in infancy. Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu) was also called "Tahir" and "Tayyib."

(B) His daughters were Sayyadah Zainab, Sayyadah Ruqayyah, Sayyadah Umme Kulthum and Sayyadah Fathima (radi Allahu anhuma).

10. THE HOLY KAABA GETS RE-BUILT

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 35 years old, the leaders of the Quraish decided to re-build the Holy Kaaba. The Holy Kaaba needed repairs and re-building after a sudden flood had damaged and cracked its walls.

10.1 PLACING OF THE HAJR-E-ASWAD

The re-building of the Holy Kaaba began. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) took an active part in helping the Quraish to do repair work to the Holy Kaaba. The walls of the Holy Kaaba were raised much higher this time. Work was almost completed.

Now, it was time to place the Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone) on the east side of the Holy Kaaba. The placing of Hajr-e-Aswad was regarded as an act of honour by all the Meccans and to the Quraish, since it was very sacred to all of them.

At the same time, arguments broke out between the different tribes about who should have the honour of placing the Hajr-e-Aswad in its place. This argument almost led to a war between the various tribes of Makkatul Mukarramah.

10.2 RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM) SOLVES THE PROBLEM

While the leaders of the tribes were locked in argument and trying to work out a solution to the problem, an old man by the name of Shaiba, suggested an idea.

He said: "Let the first man to enter the gate of the Haram next morning decide the matter in dispute amongst us."

The leaders agreed to this idea and returned home. The next morning, they all waited to see who would enter the gate of the Haram. The first man to enter the gate was Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

All the Meccans shouted: "It is Al-Ameen." They knew that he was a fair judge. He would do what was right and bring peace.

They told him what had happened and he agreed to solve the problem.

He said to them: "Give me a cloak."

When the cloak was brought to him, he spread it out on the ground. He placed the Hajr-e-Aswad on it and said: "Let the elders of each clan hold on one edge of the cloak."

The elders of each tribe grabbed on to the edge of the cloak. He told them to raise the Hajr-e-Aswad. They raised the Hajr-e-Aswad to its proper height. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then lifted the Hajr-e-Aswad with his own blessed hands and placed it in it's corner in the wall of the Holy Kaaba.

The Meccans were very pleased by this action and felt equally honoured. All their disputes came to an end. In fact, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) prevented a war from breaking out between the various tribes.

The re-building of the Holy Kaaba continued and was completed by the Quraish.

PART 2

11. RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM) IS ALMIGHTY ALLAH'S MESSENGER

11.1 THE CAVE OF HIRA

There is a mountain called "Jabl-e-Noor" not very far away from Makkatul Mukarramah. It is about 2 miles away from the city. In Jabl-e-Noor there is a cave called "Hira."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) used to spend a great deal of his time in the Cave of Hira in meditation (thinking deeply) and praying to Almighty Allah. He also used to keep fast. Sometimes he would spend many days in the Cave of Hira. During these long absences, his wife, Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) would send him food which would last him quite a few days.

11.2 FIRST REVELATION - FIRST WORDS OF THE HOLY QURAN

One night, in the month of Ramadaan, while he was in the Cave of Hira praying to Almighty Allah, an Angel came before him. The Angel was Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam).

"Read," said the Angel.

"I am not a reader," replied Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

The Angel hugged and squeezed him, and left him. The Angel again said, "Read." Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave the same reply.

The Angel hugged him even harder for the third time and released him saying :- "Read in the name of your Rabb who created, Created man from a clot of blood Read, your Rabb is most generous Who taught by pen and thought man which he knew not." (Surah Al-Alaq: Verses 1-5)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) recited the words and felt as though the words were written on his heart. It was the words which Almighty Allah had given to him.

The verses which Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) had brought were the first words of the Holy Quran. It is called "Wahi" or "Revelation."

The Angel then said: "O Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! You are a Messenger of Allah." Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) then left.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 40 years old when his Prophethood was announced.

12. REVELATIONS FROM ALMIGHTY ALLAH

12.1 WIFE COMFORTS HIM

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) quickly left the Cave of Hira and made his way home.

He told his wife all that had happened to him in the Cave of Hira. Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) had faith in his character and comforted him saying that Almighty Allah will help him.

She told him: "O Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), you are a good person. You are kind to the slaves and the poor. You love the orphans and comfort the widows. You always speak the truth and you keep your promises. Allah loves such people. Surely, Allah will protect you. He will never let any harm come to you."

12.2 WARAQA BIN NAUFAL

Waraqa bin Naufal was a Christian and had knowledge about the Bible. He was also the cousin of Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha).

Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) was full of concern for her husband, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). She went to Waraqa bin Naufal for advice. After she explained to him what had happened, he assured her that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was the chosen Prophet of Allah. He also told her that the Angel that spoke to him was Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) who visited previous Ambiya of Allah.

She returned to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and told him what her cousin, Waraqa bin Naufal, had said.

12.3 SECOND REVELATION

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) continued going to the Cave of Hira to pray to Almighty Allah. He did not receive any more revelations from Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam). He became worried.

After a very long period of time, Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) appeared before Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) for the second time. The Angel brought the second revelation from Almighty Allah: "O you wrapped up in mantle, arise and warn! Glorify Allah and keep your garments pure and clean..." (Surah Mudassir)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now reassured that he had been chosen for an important mission by Almighty Allah. His duty was to spread the message of Islam.

When he returned home, he told his wife: "O Khadijah, the time for slumber and rest has passed. Jibra'el has asked me to warn men and call them to Almighty Allah and His worship. But whom shall I call? And who will listen to me?"

Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) comforted him. She immediately accepted Islam. She was the first woman to accept to Islam.

12.4 MORE REVELATIONS

From then onwards, and till the time that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) left this world, Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) appeared often. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received many more revelations in beautiful Arabic which he was told to recite aloud, and which he then did recited to his followers. They, in turn, learnt the verses of the Holy Quran by heart. They also wrote them down.

Thus, Almighty Allah revealed to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that He had chosen him to be His last Messenger. Through him, Allah would teach His Deen, Islam, to mankind. The revelations he would receive would be Almighty Allah's message to all the people of the world.

13. ISLAMIC MOVEMENT BEGINS PRIVATELY

13.1 THE ISLAMIC MOVEMENT

The revelations that were received by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) marked the beginning of the "Islamic Movement." The aim of the Islamic Movement is to invite the people to Islam and establish the Laws of Almighty Allah on earth.

The first step of the Islamic Movement began when Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) invited his close friends and relatives to Islam.

13.2 SAYYIDUNA ALI (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) ACCEPTS ISLAM

Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) was the son Abu Taalib. He was a little boy when he accepted Islam. He spent much of his time in the house and in the company of uncle, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He listened to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) reciting the Holy Quran. He saw them performing their Salaah.

One day, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) invited him to accept Islam. He did not accept Islam immediately for he felt the need to consult his father, Abu Taalib, about this.

But, the next morning, he rushed to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and accepted Islam. He said: "Allah created me without consulting my father, Abu Taalib. Why then, should I consult him in order to worship Allah?"

13.3 OTHER EARLY MUSLIMS

(a) Sayyadah Khadijah (radi Allahu anha) was the first person to accept Islam.

(b) Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) was the first boy to accept Islam.

(c) Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harith (radi Allahu Anhu) was the first freed male slave to accept Islam.

(d) Sayyadah Umme-Aiman (radi Allahu anha) was the first freed female slave to accept Islam.

(e) Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) was a close friend of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was the first male adult to accept Islam. He was a trader and a very popular man in Makkatul Mukarramah. Many other Arabs also accepted Islam through Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu).

(f) Sayyiduna 'Uthman bin Affan, Sayyiduna Saad bin Abi Waqqas, Abdur Rahman bin Auf, Talhah bin Ubaidullah, Abu Dharr, Zubair bin Awwan, Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah, Arqam bin Abi Arqam, Suhaib Al-rumi, Abdullah bin Ma'sud, Khabbab bin al-Arat, 'Uthman bin Maz'un, Jafer bin Abi Taalib and Nu'aim bin Abdullah (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in) also accepted Islam during the early stages.

(g) Among the women were also Sayyadah Fathima bint Al-Khabbab, Sayyadah Asma bint Abu Bakr, Sayyadah Fathima bint Al-Mujallil, Sayyadah Fukaiha bint Yasar, Sayyadah Asma bint Umais, Sayyadah Asma bint Salamah, Sayyadah Ramlah bint Abu Auf and Sayyadah Umaina bint Khalaf (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in).

The Muslims used to meet in Sayyiduna Arqam (radi Allahu anhu's) house. This house was the centre of religious training for the early Muslims. They also met outside the city of Makkatul Mukarramah where they prayed to Almighty Allah. As the Islamic Movement was still in its early stages, they did not wish to attract too much attention from the general public.

13.4 SAHABA AND SAHABIYAH

A Muslim who saw Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and believed in him with love and Imaan is called a Sahabi. The plural for Sahabi (many Sahabi) is Sahaba. If it is a Muslim woman she is called a Sahabiyah.

13.5 END OF FIRST STAGE

During the first stage of the Islamic Movement the message of Islam was spread very secretly to build up support. The people who were closest to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and knew him best started believing in Islam. It continued for 3 years in this manner. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), through his excellent personality and character, won the hearts of the new Muslims, young and old. It was through the poor people that Islam was built up during it's early years.

14. ISLAMIC MOVEMENT BECOMES PUBLIC

While Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was busy propagating the message of Islam secretly, he now given the command by Almighty Allah to invite all the Meccans to Islam. Almighty Allah instructed him: "Proclaim what you have been ordered and turn away from the Mushriks (idol-worshippers)." (Surah Hijr: Verse 94)

This was the second stage of the Islamic Movement.

14.1 THE QURAISH AND THE DINNER

In order to win the support of the leaders of the Quraish and important members of the tribe, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) decided to invite them to a dinner. He hoped to propagate the message of Islam to them.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) instructed Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) to prepare a meal with a leg of mutton and a cup of milk. He then invited about 40 members of the Quraish to the dinner. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) wondered how so many guests would partake of such a little meal.

The Quraish finally arrived and seated themselves. They began eating. While the guests were taking portions of the meat Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) noticed, to his amazement, that there was no end to the amount of meat from just a leg of mutton!

The guests had completed the meal and were relaxing. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) called for their attention. He addressed them, saying: "O sons of Abdul Muttalib, I know of no Arab who has come to his people with a nobler message than mine. I have brought you the best of this world and the next. Allah has ordered me to call you to Him. So who of you will stand by me in this matter?"

The guests remained silent. Nobody said anything. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu), who was only 13 years of age, stood up in front of the elders of the Quraish and said, "O Prophet of Allah, I will be your helper."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was pleased with him. The Quraish burst out laughing when they saw what happened and left. The Meccans were not prepared to accept the message of Islam.

14.2 THE CALL FROM MOUNT SAFFA

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was still determined to pass the message of Allah to the Meccans. He thought about a second plan of winning the attention of the Quraish and the Meccans.

One day, he walked out of the city and climbed on the top of a small hill, Mount Saffa. He stood on Mount Saffa and called the people to listen to what he had to say. A crowd of people soon gathered.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "O Men of Quraish, if I were to tell you that I see an army ready to attack you on the other side of the mountain, would you believe me?"

They answered: "Yes, why not? We trust you and never found you telling a lie."

He then told them: "Allah has commanded me to warn you that the Day of Judgement is coming. I am Allah's Nabi. Allah is One. Allah alone is God. All your idols and images are not God. Allah alone is the Creator. He gave us life. We shall return to Him after death. Allah will make us alive again, and then He will judge us. So believe in Him alone. Give up your idols and your evil ways and lead a good moral life."

The Meccans were not expecting this. No one had ever heard anything like it before. They loved their idols, and they certainly did not believe in the Day of Judgement.

Abu Lahab, the uncle of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), was furious. He shouted angrily: "You have wasted our time." Abu Lahab and Abu Jahal, who were prominent people among the Meccans, turned and walked away. The others followed.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received a command from Almighty Allah. He would obey Almighty Allah no matter what happened. So he started preaching Islam openly. Wherever and whenever he met people, he would tell them about the beautiful message of Islam.

15. PLANS OF THE KUFFAR

The rich and powerful Quraish were very angry with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They did not want to hear what he had to say about Almighty Allah and about Islam.

Only a few Meccans listened to his call and became Muslims. Most of the people of Makkatul Mukarramah remained as Kaafirs (disbelievers). They did not accept Islam. The Kuffar, especially the Quraish, began to make plans to stop the Islamic Movement, from spreading.

15.1 REASONS WHY THE QURAISH DID NOT WANT TO ACCEPT ISLAM

The main reasons why the Quraish did not want to accept Islam was because:-

(a) They were not prepared to leave their old customs and habits and begin new lives.

(b) Makkatul Mukarramah was an important commercial trading centre. Their business and their livelihood centred around the idols that they worshipped.

(c) The Quraish were honoured and held high positions. They were afraid of losing their positions if they accepted Islam.

15.2 PLAN ONE - INSULTING POEMS

The Meccan Kuffar, who were famous for their poetry, made up poems insulting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). These poems were recited against him. In the poems, they called him a liar. But the people knew that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was an honest, truthful, just and a very kind person. It was they who gave him the titles of "Al-Ameen" and "As-Saadiq." The first plan of the Kuffar failed to achieve its objectives.

15.3 PLAN TWO - DEMAND FOR MIRACLES

The Meccan Kuffar then asked Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to perform miracles. He told them: "All miracles are in Allah's command."

The Holy Quran, is the greatest of miracles, yet, the Meccan Kuffar could not challenge it or produce a verse like that of the Holy Quran. Having failed to meet the challenge of the Holy Quran, the Kuffar became desperate. Islam was spreading fast in the city of Makkatul Mukarramah.

15.4 PLAN THREE - INFLUENCING ABU TAALIB

The Kuffar then tried to settle the matter with his uncle, Abu Taalib. They approached Abu Taalib and pleaded with him to ask Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to stop attacking their idols.

They said: "O Abu Taalib, you are old and we hold you in high esteem. We had asked you to restrain your nephew but you did nothing. By god, we cannot tolerate any longer that our fathers be denounced, we should be called fools and careless and our gods insulted. Either you must stop him or we will fight both of you, until one of us perishes."

Having said this, they left Abu Taalib's house. Abu Taalib asked Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to visit him. Abu Taalib told him not to go against the powerful Quraish and to stop attacking their idols. Abu Taalib said: "Son of my brother, your people came to me and threatened me with dire consequences if you continue to preach your religion. Spare my life and yours and do not impose on me a burden greater than I can bear."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "I love you, O my uncle, but in this matter, even if they put the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left, I shall not stop preaching Islam until Allah has made me victorious or I will sacrifice my life in it."

Abu Taalib realized that his nephew would not surrender to the Meccan Kuffar. He loved his nephew promised Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) his support. He announced his support for his nephew to the Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib. Abu Taalib also asked them to protect Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They agreed to abide by Abu Taalib's decisions.

The Meccan Kuffar were disappointed. Now that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received the support from his uncle, the Banu Hashim and the Banu Muttalib, they could do nothing to stop him from spreading Islam.

16. THE SUFFERINGS OF THE SAHABA IN MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH

The Kuffar realised that their plans in stopping Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had failed miserably. They decided to now use force against the Muslims. They decided to punish the Muslims. This was their fourth plan.

Among the early Sahaba, there were all kinds of people, rich and poor, young and old, men and women. Many were humble and weak people who had no one to protect them. Some were the slaves of rich Kuffar chiefs. These slaves were persecuted and tortured by their masters for their beliefs.

16.1 SAHABA WHO WERE TORTURED BY THE KUFFAR

The first Sahabi to suffer at the hands of the Kuffar of Makkatul Mukarramah was Sayyiduna Saad bin Waqqaas (radi Allahu anhu). He was attacked by the Kuffar while he was defending the Muslims who were praying in the outskirts of Makkatul Mukarramah. He was badly injured.

Sayyiduna Bilal bin Rabah (radi Allahu anhu), an Abyssinian slave, was tortured by his cruel master, Ummaya bin Khalaf, for accepting Islam. Ummaya made him lie on burning sand under the hot sun with a heavy stone laid on his chest. His master ordered him to give up Islam. Sayyiduna Bilal (radi Allahu anhu) kept on saying: "Ahad! Ahad! One Allah! One Allah!" Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) later bought him from Ummaya and gave him his freedom.

Sayyadah Zinnirah (radi Allahu anha) was an old lady and a slave of Abu Jahl. Abu Jahl was the chief enemy of Islam. He used to whip her every day. One day, he poked her eyes with a sharp spear. She became blind. The next morning, a great miracle happened. She gained her eyesight. Almighty Allah made her see once again.

Sayyiduna Yasir (radi Allahu anhu), his wife, Sayyadah Sumayyah (radi Allahu anha), and their son were also tortured by the Kuffar for their beliefs. Sayyiduna Yasir (radi Allahu anhu) was made to lie on burning coals. Boiling water was poured on him. Once, when Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) saw him suffering, he comforted him, saying: "Be patient Yasir. Allah has promised you Jannah (Heaven)." They were tortured to such an extent that he and his wife passed away. His wife was killed by Abu Jahl.

Sayyiduna 'Uthman bin Affan (radi Allahu anhu) was shut up in a dark room and beaten up by his relatives for accepting Islam. Sayyiduna Musaab bin Umair (radi Allahu anhu) was another Sahabi who was turned out of his house by his mother when she found out that he accepted Islam.

16.2 SHAHEED

A Muslim who passes away in the Path of Allah is called a "Shaheed." Almighty Allah has promised the Shuhada (pl. of Shaheed) His special Favour, and they enter Jannah (Heaven) as soon as they pass away. For this reason, Muslims are glad to give their lives for the sake of Allah and for the Cause of Islam.

Many other Sahaba and Sahabiyah also suffered from such cruelties. But the love for Almighty Allah and for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was greater than anything else. In fact, their faith grew even stronger under such treatment. They gave up their lives, but they never gave up Islam. May Allah bless them all with Jannah and give them a great reward.

Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Those who persecute (or draw into temptation) the Believers, men and women, and do not turn in repentance, will have the penalty of Hell: they will have the Penalty of the Burning Fire. For those who believe and do righteous deeds, Will be Gardens beneath which Rivers flow: that is the great Salvation, (the fulfilment of all desires)." (Surah Buruj: Verses 10-11)

17. KUFFAR PERSECUTE RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Although the Muslims were being tortured and persecuted, the Meccan Kuffar were furious at seeing the number of Muslims grow. They knew that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was responsible for all this, but they could not kill him. He was under the protection of Abu Taalib.

The Kuffar adopted different methods of tormenting and teasing him. Abu Lahab and Abu Jahl followed him wherever he went and said bad things about him.

Abu Lahab's wife, Umm Jamil, was even worse than her husband. In the dark nights she scattered branches covered with thorns in the street where Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) walked. When he returned home at night, he would step on them, and his blessed feet would bleed.

Once Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was praying at the Holy Kaaba. Abu Jahl carried with him the stinking intestines of a camel. While Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was in Sajdah, he threw it on the blessed back and blessed head of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). All the Kuffar who were present there mocked him and laughed at him with joy. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) went home and his loving daughter, Sayyadah Bibi Fathima (radi Allahu anha) helped him wash off the dirt.

At another time, a Kaafir tried to choke Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to death while he was praying. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) saw this and immediately came to his rescue. He freed him from the Kaafir.

One day, some Kuffar found him alone. They began beating him until he lost consciousness. The sons of the Kuffar used to throw dirt on him. A wicked Kaafir lady used to throw dirt on him as he passed by her house on the way to the Holy Kaaba.

These things made Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) very sad. But he was even sadder because the Kuffar would not accept the message of Islam. Still, he never said anything to them in anger. Instead, he prayed to Almighty Allah to give him patience to bear the sufferings that they inflicted upon him. He asked Almighty Allah to guide the Kuffar to see the truth.

18. SAYYIDUNA HAMZAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) ACCEPTS ISLAM

Abu Jahl, the greatest enemy of Islam, used to tease and insult Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

One day, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was near Mount Saffa. Abu Jahl happened to pass by. He saw Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and insulted him very harshly. But Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not answer him back.

Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) was the uncle of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He did not accept Islam at this stage. He was the most courageous and bravest man amongst the Quraish. He had just returned from a hunting trip. A woman slave told him what happened to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) became angry and went to look for Abu Jahl. He found Abu Jahl and his friends sitting near the Holy Kaaba. He lifted his bow and struck Abu Jahl on his head, and said: "Would you dare to insult and abuse him (the Prophet) when I follow his religion and say what he says!" Abu Jahl kept quiet.

Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) went to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to console him that he had avenged what Abu Jahl had done. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied, "Uncle, this does not please me. Your acceptance of Islam will please me."

Suddenly, Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) was filled with the desire to accept Islam. He at once became a Muslim. The Muslims were very happy now that Sayyiduna Hamzah (radi Allahu anhu) accepted Islam. The Quraish were put at a great loss.

19. KUFFAR MAKE AN OFFER TO RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Many Kuffar did not understand why Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was against their idols. They had all kinds of wrong ideas about him.

Thus far, all the plans of the Kuffar had failed. They held a meeting. In this meeting they decided to send Utbah bin Rabiah, one of the leaders of the Quraish, to make a bargain with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Utbah went to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He offered him wealth, property and the position of King. Utbah even told him that he could marry the most beautiful woman in Arabia.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not say anything. He listened quietly to Utbah. When Utbah had finished making his offers, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) recited some verses of Surah Fusilaat of the Holy Quran to him. Utbah was so struck with the words of the Holy Quran that he went back to the Quraish and told them to leave Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) alone.

Utba said: "I have heard a lecture the like of which I had never heard before. I will swear to God, O Quraish, that it is neither poetry, nor spells, nor witchcraft. Take my advice and leave this man alone."

The Quraish scolded Utba for being influenced by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They also realised that their plans in bribing Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had failed.

The Kuffar then thought of another idea. They promised Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that they will worship Almighty Allah if he prayed to their idols. He refused.

The Kuffar were furious. They began thinking of other ways to stop him and from Islam spreading.

20. MUSLIMS MIGRATE TO ABYSSINIA

Life in Makkatul Mukarramah became unbearable for the Muslims. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was concerned for their safety and advised the Muslims to make Hijrah to the land of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) in Africa.

"Hijrah" means to migrate from one's own country if one does not have freedom of religion there.

This happened 5 years after the first revelation. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 45 years old.

20.1 FIRST BATCH OF MUSLIMS

The first batch of Muslims that left Makkatul Mukarramah for Abyssinia by ship were 11 men and 4 women.

The King of Abyssinia, Najjashi (Negus), was a very noble and just person. He was a Christian. He did not object to the Muslims living in his country. The Muslims were able to live peacefully and practise Islam.

When the persecution of the Muslims in Makkatul Mukarramah became more serious, many more Muslims left Makkatul Mukarramah and settled in Abyssinia.

20.2 KUFFAR TRY TO GET MUSLIMS BACK

When the Kuffar heard about the migration of Muslims to Abyssinia, they became enraged. The Quraish sent a delegation consisting of Amr ibnul As and Abdullah bin Abi Rabiah to Abyssinia to get the Muslims back.

They went to the court of Negus. They told Negus that the Muslims were following a new religion and that they were trying to stop them. They told him to expel them from Abyssinia.

Negus was a very just man. He called for the Muslims and asked them to explain the whole matter to him.

20.3 SAYYIDUNA JAFER (RADI ALLAHU ANHU'S) SPEECH

Sayyiduna Jafer bin Abu Taalib (radi Allahu anhu), the son of Abu Taalib, addressed Negus and all those present.

He said: "O King, we were in a state of ignorance and immorality, worshipping stones and idols, eating dead animals, committing all sorts of injustices, breaking natural ties, treating guests badly and the strong among us exploited the weak.

"Then Almighty Allah sent us a Prophet, one of our people, whose truthfulness and illustrious qualities were well known to us. He called us to worship Allah alone and to give up the idols, the stones, which we and our ancestors used to worship. He commanded us to speak the truth, to honour our promises, to be helpful to our relations, to be good to our neighbours, to abstain from bloodshed, to avoid fornication. He commanded us not to give false witness, not to eat up an orphans property or falsely accuse a married woman. He ordered us not to associate anyone with Almighty Allah.

"He commanded us to hold prayers. We believed in him and what he brought to us from Almighty Allah and we follow him in what he has asked us to do and forbade us not to do.

"Thereupon, our people attacked us, treated us badly and tried to take us back to the worship of idols. They made life difficult for us in Makkatul Mukarramah and we came to your country to seek protection to live in justice and peace."

Sayyiduna Jafer (radi Allahu anhu) then read Surah Maryam of the Holy Quran. It was about Nabi Isa (alaihis salaam). Negus understood the verses of the Holy Quran and wept while listening to the Holy Quran. Even the Bishops wept till their scrolls were wet with tears.

Negus sent the delegation of Quraish away saying that he will protect the Muslims and will allow them to live in peace in his country. Negus treated the Muslims with honour and pledged his protection for them. The Muslims were very happy.

The Kuffar returned home to Makkatul Mukarramah and broke the terrible news to the Quraish.

Thus, the plans of the Kuffar failed once again.

PART 3

21. SAYYIDUNA UMAR (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) ACCEPTS ISLAM

The following incident happened in the 6th year after the first Revelation.

There was a Meccan by the name of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu). He was not yet a Muslim. He was 35 years old. He made a vow to kill Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

One day, he decided to carry out his actions. He set off to kill Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). On his way, he met Nuam bin Abdullah and told him about his intentions. Nuam told him to first take care of his sister, Sayyadah Fathima (radi Allahu anha) and his brother-in-law, Sayyiduna Sayid (radi Allahu anhu), since they had already accepted Islam. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) became very angry when he heard about this and went at once to his sister's house.

21.1 INCIDENT AT THE HOUSE

As he approached the house, he heard the Holy Quran being recited. Sayyiduna Khabbab (radi Allahu anhu) was reading Surah Ta Ha to his sister and her husband. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) then burst into the house. He demanded to know what they were reading. They refused to speak to him. Sayyiduna Khabbab (radi Allahu anhu) had already quickly hidden in another room just before Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) came into the house.

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) was so angry that he started hitting his brother-in-law. His sister stepped forward to protect her husband and was also injured on the face. She began to bleed. Seeing the blood on her face, Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) calmed down. In the meantime, they kept on saying: "Umar! We shall not leave Islam even if you kill us. We shall not leave Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)."

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) was struck by their words and their faith. He calmly asked them to show him the sheet of the Holy Quran. His sister, Sayyadah Fathima (radi Allahu anha), told him to clean himself first. He had a Ghusal (bath).

21.2 SAYYIDUNA UMAR (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) ACCEPTS ISLAM

He was then given the Holy Quran to read. While reading the Holy Quran, Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu's) face brightened. He was deeply moved by the verses of the Holy Quran. He decided to accept Islam and said, "Lead me to Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), so that I may accept Islam."

Sayyiduna Khabbab (radi Allahu anhu) came out of hiding. He led him to Sayyiduna Arqam (radi Allahu anhu's) house.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Sahaba welcomed Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) into the house. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) recited the Kalimah Shahaadah. He accepted Islam freely. He was the 40th Muslim to accept Islam.

21.3 ISLAM STRENGTHENED

As Almighty Allah willed, one of Islam's worst enemies had now become one of its most faithful friends.

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) was a powerful man. Before him, Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) accepted Islam. Their entry into Islam was a turning point in the history of the Islamic Movement.

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) was so brave and fearless of the Kuffar that he prayed in front of the Holy Kaaba. He encouraged other Muslims to join him. The Kuffar watched them in anger, but were afraid to take any action against them.

22. BOYCOTT OF THE MUSLIMS BY THE QURAISH

The Quraish had failed to stop the Islamic Movement in Makkatul Mukarramah and Abyssinia. They already lost some of their strongest men.

The Quraish had a meeting with all the leaders and important families of Makkatul Mukarramah. In order to put pressure on the Muslims, they all agreed to "boycott" or "cut off all communications" with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), his followers, the Banu Hashim and the Banu Muttalib.

22.1 TERMS OF THE BOYCOTT

A notice or agreement was written by the Quraish. Mansur ibn Ikrama wrote up the terms of the Agreement. The Agreement was hung up in the Holy Kaaba for all to see. The terms were:-

(a) No one was to buy or sell anything to them.

(b) No food and water was to be supplied to them.

(c) No marriages were to take place with any member of the Banu Hashim tribe.

(d) No Meccan will be allowed to become a Muslim.

(e) There must be no contact with them.

(f) They must give up Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

When the Muslims saw the agreement, they could do nothing. Abu Taalib, the chief of the Banu Hashim, took all the people to a valley outside Makkatul Mukarramah called "Shib-e-Abu Taalib" or "The Valley of Abu Taalib." They stayed in this valley for 3 years.

22.2 MUSLIMS LIVE IN HARDSHIP

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), his Sahaba and the Banu Hashim underwent a great deal of hardship and suffering in the 3 years that they lived in this valley. There were no food and water in the valley. As their provisions ran out, they had to feed on the leaves of trees. Some boiled the skin of goats for food. The children had no milk. The parents were like skeletons. There were a few kind-hearted Meccans who secretly supplied a little food that they could find for the children.

22.3 VIEWS OF BOYCOTT CHANGES

By now, many Meccans felt sorry for their fellow countrymen and realized that the terms of the Agreement were too cruel. Hisham bin Amr and Zubair bin Abi Ummayah decided to take some form of action. Hisham bin Amr called the Meccans together. He appealed to them to cancel the Agreement.

In the meantime, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had a dream. In the dream, he saw that the Agreement that the Meccans had drawn up was eaten away by white ants. He also saw that the word "Allah" written on the Agreement remained uneaten. He related this dream to his uncle, Abu Taalib. Abu Taalib sent a message to the Meccans to inspect the Agreement. The Meccans went to the Holy Kaaba, and to their surprise, found that the ants had eaten up the Agreement, except the name of "Allah." The dream of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) proved to be true.

22.4 MUSLIMS RETURN HOME

Now that through the Will of Almighty Allah, the Agreement was finally destroyed, the boycott came to an end. The Muslims, the Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib were allowed to return home to the city.

Of course, this did not put an end to the sufferings inflicted upon the Muslims. Abu Jahl was furious. The Kuffar continued insulting and abusing the Muslims. In spite of all this, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) continued spreading the message of Islam.

22.5 POET ACCEPTS ISLAM

Sayyiduna Tufayl bin Amr (radi Allahu anhu) was a prominent poet. He and highly honoured by the Arabs. He was from the tribe of Daus. He did not as yet accept Islam.

When he came to Makkatul Mukarramah, some of the Quraish warned him about meeting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They told him to be careful and not to be cast into Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) spell. But, Sayyiduna Tufayl (radi Allahu anhu) did not listen to the Quraish. He went to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and accepted Islam.

Thereafter, Sayyiduna Tufayl bin Amr (radi Allahu anhu) returned to his tribe and began preaching the message of Islam. Soon all of them became Muslims.

23. YEAR OF SORROW

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now 50 years old. It had been 10 years since he had received the first Revelation from Almighty Allah. More sorrow and grief was to face him that year.

This year is called "The Year of Sorrow" or "Aam-al-Huzn."

23.1 DEATH OF ABU TAALIB

Soon after the boycott, his uncle, Abu Taalib, passed away at the age of 82. Abu Taalib's death was a great loss to him because Abu Taalib who always protected him from the Kuffar. Abu Taalib's protection was like a fortress against the hostility of the entire Quraish. Abu Taalib managed to convince the Banu Hashim and the Banu Muttalib to protect him. Now that he died, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not have any material support in the midst of his enemies. Abu Taalib had never accepted Islam.

23.2 LOSS OF BIBI KHADIJAH (RADI ALLAHU ANHA)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) wife, Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha), also passed away on the 10th of Ramadaan at the age of 65. Her demise was a great loss to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). She had always supported him in his mission. She comforted him through all the hardships that he faced. She had helped his cause financially. She gave away all her wealth in the service of Islam. She lived a poor life. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had loved her very much and he used to remember her very often.

24. MISSION TO TA'IF

In a single year, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had lost the protection of his uncle and the loving care of his wife. This made the Kuffar very bold. They started opposing him more openly.

It was the 10th year of his mission. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) knew that he had to find a place other than Makkatul Mukarramah to be the base of Islam. He decided to spread the word of Almighty Allah to the people of Ta'if, a town 60 miles to the west of Makkatul Mukarramah.

24.1 RECEPTION AT TA'IF

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) arrived in Ta'if, he went to 3 important people of the city. He hoped to convince them about accepting Islam. All of them refused to accept Islam. They made fun of him. They set the wicked people of Ta'if upon him. As he left the city of Ta'if, they pelted Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with stones. He was badly injured and his blessed shoes were full of blood.

24.2 FORGIVENESS FOR PEOPLE OF TA'IF

After walking for 3 miles, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) reached the plantation of Utbah bin Rabiah, a Kaafir. He took shelter there and prayed to Almighty Allah for help and protection.

The Angel, Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) appeared before him. He informed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that he had been given the command by Almighty Allah to destroy the people of Ta'if if Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) wished so.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "There is no need for that. These people do not want to accept Islam. I do hope and pray to Almighty Allah that there will be persons from among their children who would worship Almighty Allah and accept His Deen."

In the meantime, Utbah bin Rabiah, the owner of the garden, saw what had happened. He felt sorry for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He sent his slave, Addas, with a plateful of grapes to him. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) ate the grapes.

Much later, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) told his Sahaba that the day of Ta'if was the most testing time of life. But look at the mercy and greatness of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)! He was bruised, hurt and blood-stained, yet he never pronounced one word of curse for the people who had assaulted him.

24.3 JINNS ACCEPT ISLAM

After resting for some time, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) set out for Makkatul Mukarramah. As night approached, he stopped at Nakhla, a place just outside Makkatul Mukarramah. Here, performed his Salaah. While praying, about 7 Jinns passed by. They listened to the Holy Quran being recited. After Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had finished his Salaah, they all accepted Islam.

24.4 UNDER THE PROTECTION OF MU'TIM BIN 'ADI

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) walked further until then reached the Cave of Hira. He rested at the cave for a while.

Realising that the Kuffar were still intent upon killing him, he sent word to Mu'tim bin 'Adi, a Kaafir, asking him for protection. Mutim was a very respectable person. He agreed. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned to Makkatul Mukarramah. Mu'tim announced to the Kuffar that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was now under his protection.

25. JOURNEY TO THE HEAVENS - MEE'RAJ

After the death of Abu Taalib and Bibi Khadijah (radi Allahu anha), and the cruel treatment that he received at Ta'if, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) longed for some comfort.

25.1 MEE'RAJ IN THE HOLY QURAN

This comfort happened in the form of a remarkable and eventful night journey to Jerusalem called "Al Isra," and the ascent to the Heavens called "Al Mee'raj." About this incident, Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Glory to Allah Who did take His servant for a journey by night from the Sacred Mosque to the Farthest Mosque, whose precincts We did Bless, in order that We might show him some of Our Signs: for He is the One Who Hears and Sees all things." (Surah Bani Israel:1)

The Mee'raj happened on the 27th Night of Rajab. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was 50 years old.

25.2 SAYYIDUNA JIBRA'EL (ALAIHIS SALAAM'S) VISIT

One night, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was asleep in the house of his cousin, Umme Haani, daughter of Abu Taalib.

Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) came to him. He gave him the good news that Almighty Allah wished him in His Presence. Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) took him to the Holy Kaaba (Masjid al-Haram). He then opened the chest of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), washed it with Zam Zam water and filled it with the Noor (Light) of Allah and Hikmah (Wisdom).

They then mounted the "Buraaq," a transport from Jannah. Buraaq could travel faster than light. They travelled to Jerusalem.

25.3 JOURNEY TO MASJIDUL AQSA

They stopped in Jerusalem at Masjidul Aqsa. This mosque was built hundreds of years earlier by Nabi Sulaiman (alaihis salaam).

Here, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) met all the past Ambiya of Almighty Allah and led them for Salaah. Almighty Allah had appointed him as the Imam (Leader) of all the Ambiya.

25.4 JOURNEY TO THE HEAVENS

From Jerusalem, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was taken to the Heavens.

This journey of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to Heaven is called "Mee'raj" or "Going Up."

On the entry into the first Heaven, he was met by Sayyiduna Adam (alaihis salaam); into the second Heaven by Sayyiduna Yahya and Sayyiduna 'Isa (alaihimus salaam); then by Sayyiduna Yusuf (alaihis salaam); then by Sayyiduna Idris (alaihis salaam); by Sayyiduna Haroon and Sayyiduna Moosa (alaihimus salaam) and into the seventh Heaven by Sayyiduna Ebrahim (alaihis salaam).

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) saw the beauties of the Gardens of Jannah (Paradise), which Almighty Allah has promised to those who obey him. He saw the terrible signs of Jahannam (Hell), where evil people will go after death. He saw the entire creation - the past, present and the future.

25.5 MEETING WITH ALMIGHTY ALLAH

Finally, Sayyiduna Jibra'el (alaihis salaam) brought him to the furthest point - a tree - called "Sidratul Muntaha." It was a place where no Angel or human being had ever been before, and no one else would ever go there. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had the honour of going there. He had to travel on his own until he was in the Presence of Almighty Allah. He saw Almighty Allah with his own eyes.

Almighty Allah spoke directly to His beloved Prophet, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was given the following by Almighty Allah:-

(a) Five times daily Salaah which became compulsory for all Muslims.

(b) Last portion of Surah Baqarah.

(c) He was promised that Muslims who believed in One Allah would be granted Jannah.

(d) He was promised that Almighty Allah will reward those Muslims who performed good deeds.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then returned home.

25.6 THE TITLE OF "SIDDIQUE"

The next morning, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) narrated his experiences to his Sahaba. They never doubted what he said.

In fact, when Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) heard of the Mee'raj, he said: "If Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) says so, then it must be true." After this event, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave him the title of "Siddique" which means "The Confirmer of Truth."

When the Kuffar heard of the Mee'raj, they began to mock Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Even after proving to them that he went for the Mee'raj, they still did not believe him.

26. ISLAMIC MOVEMENT SPREADS TO MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

As we already know, Makkatul Mukarramah was an important trading centre in Arabia and an important place of worship. Many traders and pilgrims from all over Arabia came to the city. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) used to deliver the message of Islam to them. He used to teach them about Islam.

One group of people who benefitted from his teachings were from Madinatul Munawwarah (then known as Yathrib).

The events below show how the Islamic Movement set its root in Madinatul Munawwarah.

26.1 FIRST PLEDGE OF AQABA

Aqaba is a place between Mount Hira and Mina near Makkatul Mukarramah.

In the 11th year of his mission, 6 men from Madinatul Munawwarah met Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu allah wasallam) at Aqaba. He instructed them in the teachings of Islam. They, in turn, spread the message of Islam in their city, Madinatul Munawwarah.

The following year, 12 men came to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu allah wasallam) and accepted Islam. They were from the Aus and Khazraj tribes of Madinatul Munawwarah. They made the following pledge with him:-

(a) Not to join partners with Allah,

(b) Not to commit adultery and fornication,

(c) Not to steal,

(d) Not to kill their female children,

(e) Not to bring false charges against an innocent person, and

(f) To obey Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

This was the first pledge of Aqaba.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu allah wasallam) promised those that kept the pledge that as a reward they will be granted Jannah. He also sent Sayyiduna Musab bin Umair (radi Allahu anhu) to Madinatul Munawwarah to make the new Muslims understand the principles of Islam.

26.2 SECOND PLEDGE OF AQABA

As a result of Sayyiduna Musab bin Umair (radi Allahu anhu's) efforts, Islam spread quickly in Madinatul Munawwarah.

In the 13th year of the mission, 73 men and 2 women met Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu allah wasallam) at Aqaba. They urged him to come to their city. Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu), not yet a Muslim, asked the people of Madinatul Munawwarah to promise to protect Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) at all times. The people promised to do so. At the same time, they were anxious to hear what Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had to say.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) first read verses from the Holy Quran. He then explained to them the principles of Islam. Thereafter, he said: "I accept your allegiance on this condition that you would protect me in the same way as would your women and children."

They agreed wholeheartedly to support him. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was happy at their response.

"What shall be for us, O Prophet of Allah, if we remain firm in our pledge?" they asked.

"Paradise," was the reply.

Then, they all stretched out their hands, placing it together, and took the pledge: "We pledge that we will hear and obey in times of our distress and in times of plenty, and in what befalls us of happiness and anguish, and that we will speak the truth wherever we be, not fearing disapproval of the oppressors, in the Path of Allah." This was the second pledge of Aqaba.

26.3 TEACHERS APPOINTED FOR NEW MUSLIMS

After this pledge was taken, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) appointed 12 Sahaba to teach Islam to the new Muslims of Madinatul Munawwarah (Yathrib).

27. PLOT OF THE KUFFAR TO KILL RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

The Kuffar were very angry when they heard about the Pledge of Aqaba. They became more harsh to the Muslims. Almighty Allah instructed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to send the Muslims to Madinatul Munawwarah. There, he promised them, they will be guaranteed protection by the Muslims of Madinatul Munawwarah.

27.1 FIRST HIJRAH TO MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH (YATHRIB)

The Sahaba agreed. First they made Hijrah in small numbers. They did want to attract too much attention from the Quraish. Many other Muslims began to leave. Most of them left behind all their wealth and properties in Makkatul Mukarramah. Some were caught by the Kuffar and put into prisons. Some had their wives and children taken away from them.

Now that most of the Muslims left their city, only a few stayed behind. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) also remained in Makkatul Mukarramah.

27.2 MEETING OF KUFFAR AT DARUL NADWA

When the Meccan Kuffar learned about the success of Islam in Madinatul Munawwarah, they became very worried. They were afraid that the Muslims might become very powerful one day.

In a desperate attempt to take actions, 14 Meccan chiefs met at a place called Darul Nadwa. It was a secret meeting place in the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. After lengthy discussions, they decided that the only way to put an end to their problems was to kill Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Abu Jahl suggested a plan. His plan was: to pick out the strongest and bravest man from each tribe; surround the house of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and attack and kill him as he comes out for morning prayers. All the others agreed to the plan.

27.3 RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM'S) ESCAPE

While the Kuffar were planning to kill Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), Almighty Allah sent Revelation to him, warning him about the plans of the Kuffar. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Remember how the Unbelievers plotted against you, to keep you in bonds, and slay you, or get you out of your home. They plot and plan, and Allah too plans, But the Best of Planners is Allah." (Surah Anfal: 30)

In the meantime the Kuffar had already surrounded the house of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was ready to make Hijrah to Madinatul Munawwarah. He told Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) to sleep in his bed and cover himself. He also instructed Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) to return the people's money and belongings that he had with him for safe keeping. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) was to meet them later in Madinatul Munawwarah.

The moment arrived for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to leave the house. The Kuffar were waiting outside with long daggers in their hands ready to lunge at him. But, as Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) left the house, he walked passed the Kuffar reciting verses of Surah Yasin from the Holy Quran and blowing dust towards them. Almighty Allah blinded the sight of the Kuffar, so they did not see him at all.

Together with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) made his way out of Makkatul Mukarramah. They went to Mount Thaur and hid in a cave.

Meanwhile, the Kuffar waited patiently outside Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) house waiting for morning to arrive. The next morning, the door of the house opened and Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) stepped out of the house. The Kuffar were shocked to see him. They were expecting to see Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They then realised that he had escaped. Their evil plot failed yet again.

PART 4

28. HIJRAH TO MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

28.1 IMPORTANCE OF THE HIJRAH

The "Hijrah" is the migration Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) from Makkatul Mukarramah to Madinatul Munawwarah. "Hijrah" means leaving a country where one is persecuted and going to a land where there is freedom. It becomes necessary to make Hijrah to escape oppression and persecution to a place where a Muslim can live in peace and security. Hijrah is also made in order to set up a Muslim authority within a Muslim land where only Allah is worshipped. Hijrah is also called for to spread the message and teaching of Islam in lands it has not reached.

The Islamic Calendar, starts from the year of the Hijrah of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

28.2 INCIDENT AT THE CAVE

Mount Thaur is a mountain that is about 5 miles towards the south of Makkatul Mukarramah.

After leaving Makkatul Mukarramah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) made their way safely to Mount Thaur. There found a small cave and hid in it. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) tore off rags from his clothing and covered all the holes of the cave. This prevented the cold air from entering the cave. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) rested on his lap.

While Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) eyes were close, a snake bit Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) on his right toe. He was in pain, but, he did not wake up Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The pain was so severe that he began to tear. His tear fell on the blessed cheek of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) opened his eyes. He immediately noticed how pale Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) looked. The poison was already taking effect.

On enquiry, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) told him what had happened. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then applied his blessed saliva to Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu's) right toe where the wound was. His wound was healed immediately.

28.3 KUFFAR REACH CAVE

In the meantime, the Kuffar of Makkatul Mukarramah were searching all over for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They reached Mount Thaur. At one point, they had almost reached the mouth of the cave. As Almighty Allah willed, a dove had laid her eggs at the entrance of the cave. A spider had woven its web across it. When the Kuffar saw the bird's eggs and the spider's web they thought, "No one has gone in here recently." They went away without looking inside the cave at all.

Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) was very fearful for the safety of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). But, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) assured him by saying, "Have no fear, Allah is with us."

While they hid in the cave, the daughter of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyadah Asmah (radi Allahu anha), supplied them with their evening meals very secretly. His son, Sayyiduna Abdur Rahman (radi Allahu anhu), kept them well-informed of all the activities of the Kuffar. Both of them made sure that they were not followed by the Kuffar.

28.4 KUFFAR OFFER 100 CAMELS AS PRIZE MONEY

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) stayed in the cave for 3 days. On the fourth day they headed for Madinatul Munawwarah.

Meanwhile, the Meccan Kuffar were already searching all the roads leading to Madinatul Munawwarah. They offered a prize of 100 camels to anyone who captured Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

While travelling, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) were tired from the journey. They decided to rest under a tree. As they were about to rest under the shade of the tree, they saw a horseman galloping towards them. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) prayed to Almighty Allah to protect them from the horseman's evil intentions.

As the horseman drew near, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) ordered the earth to catch and pin the horse down. The horse kept stumbling a few times. The horseman was terrified. He finally came to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and said: "I am Suraqa bin Jausham and I have no evil intention at all. I swear by Allah that no harm shall come to you."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) forgave Jausham. Jausham promised that on his return to Makkatul Mukarramah, he would turn back all pursuers.

After this incident, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) continued their long journey towards Madinatul Munawwarah.

29. MUSJIDUL QUBA : THE FIRST MOSQUE IN ISLAM

It was a very exhausting journey to Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) travelled mostly at night.

On the 7th day, they reached a place called Quba which was 3 miles away from Madinatul Munawwarah. A few people from that city were waiting there to welcome them. Soon, Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) joined them.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) stayed in Quba for 2 weeks. Many Muslims from Madinatul Munawwarah began to assemble there to meet him. A small Musjid was built in Quba. The land for the Masjid was donated by Sayyiduna Kulthum (radi Allahu anhu). The Masjid was called Musjidul Quba. This was the first mosque built by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

It was a Friday when the Muslims set off towards Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) performed the first Jummah Khutba at the Bani Salim. He gave the Jummah sermon and performed the Salaah. After Salaah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) continued the journey towards Madinatul Munawwarah.

30. YATHRIB BECOMES MADINATUN NABAWI

30.1 MADINITES WELCOME RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Soon, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his party entered the city of Madinatul Munawwarah (then known as Yathrib). It was a golden day for the people of Madinatul Munawwarah. All the Muslims, men women and children were happy. They gave Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his party a very warm welcome. The young women and children stood on their rooftops, and sang:

"From the hilltops of the South

The full moon did rise;

With what a lovely call,

unto Allah did he call

And we thank him for it all.

O you! Sent one of Rahmaan!

We bow to your command."

Little children ran up to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He stopped to hug them. "Do you love me, children?" He asked them.

"Yes, we love you, O Rasoolullah (salLal laahu alaihi wasallam)," they answered.

He smiled and said, "I love you, too!"

30.2 PIECE OF LAND BOUGHT FOR MUSJID

The chiefs of Madinatul Munawwarah surrounded Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and begged him to stay at their houses. But, he excused himself and said, "I will stay where my camel stops."

He then left the reins of the camel loose. The camel walked for a while, stopped and kneeled down on a piece of land. The land belonged to 2 orphans, Sayyiduna Suhal (radi Allahu anhu) and Sayyiduna Suhail (radi Allahu anhu). This piece of land was then bought from the orphans by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He instructed that a Masjid be built on that land and that his own house be built at the side of the Masjid.

Meanwhile, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) stayed at the house of Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub Ansaari (radi Allahu anhu) while his own home was being built. Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub Ansaari (radi Allahu anhu) was overjoyed. He had a double-storey house and offered the upper floor to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), who chose the ground floor for the convenience of visitors. He stayed 7 months in the house of Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub Ansaari (radi Allahu anhu).

30.3 MADINATUN NABAWI

The moment that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) set foot into Yathrib, the city was no more called by it's old name. It was now called "Madinatun Nabawi" or "The City of the Prophet." We can also call the city "Madinatul Munawwarah" or "Medina Shareef."

30.4 ISLAMIC YEAR

The Islamic Year was 1 A.H. The letters "A.H." means "After Hijrah."

31. THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE ANSAAR AND MUHAJIRUN (1 A.H.)

31.1 ANSAAR

The Muslims of Madinatul Munawwarah came to be called "Ansaar" or "Helpers." They were very pleased with this title.

31.2 MUHAJIRUN

The Muslims who migrated from Makkatul Mukarramah to Madinatul Munawwarah were called the "Muhajirun" or "Immigrants."

31.3 BROTHERHOOD FORMED

Most of the Muhajirun had left everything they owned in Makkatul Mukarramah. They did not own property. They did not have any place to live. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) called together all the Muhajirun and the Ansaar.

"All Muslims are brothers of each other," he said. "Our Muhajir brothers have left their homes in Makkatul Mukarramah. They have given up everything they owned for the Sake of Almighty Allah. I want each Ansaari to accept one Muhajir as his real brother."

The Ansaar were ready to do anything to please Almighty Allah and His Rasool (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Each of them adopted a Muhajir as his brother. "You are my brother in Islam," the Ansaar said to the Muhajir brothers. "You have an equal share in everything that Almighty Allah has given me. Almighty Allah will bless me and my property if you will share it with me."

The Muhajirun were very happy. They accepted only as much as they needed. Soon, some of them started learning farming from the Ansaar and became farmers. Others started their own businesses. The Ansaar and the Muhajirun lived like one big happy family. This brotherhood of the Ansaar and the Muhajirun is called "Mawakhat." The Holy Quran speaks of this brotherhood: "Those who believed, and adopted exile, and fought for the faith, with their property and their persons, in the cause of Allah, as well as those who gave (them) asylum and aid - these are (all) friends and protectors, one of another..." (Surah Anfal: Verse 72)

32. BUILDING OF MUSJIDUN NABAWI (1 A.H.)

There were now many Muslims in Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) decided to build a Masjid in Madinatul Munawwarah.

32.1 BUILDING OF THE MUSJID

The building work began on the property that was bought by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). All the Sahaba worked very hard in the construction of the Masjid. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) himself worked day and night with the Sahaba, although they objected to him working. Soon the Masjid was completed.

It was a simple structure made of unbaked bricks. The roof was made of palm leaves and the trunks of the palm trees were used as pillars to support the roof. This Masjid was called "Musjidun Nabawi" or "The Musjid of the Holy Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)."

32.2 ASHAABUS SAFFA

A platform was built on one side of the Musjid. A "suffa" or "thatched roof" covered the platform. Poor Muslims who had no families and no homes used to stay there. They were called "Ashaabus Suffa" or "Ahlus Suffa" (People of the Mats). These Muslims spent long hours in prayers and learning. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had special love for them. They used to serve him with utmost dedication. Since they were very poor, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) asked the rich Ansaar to feed and clothe them.

32.3 ROOMS BUILT FOR RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Living quarters or rooms for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his family were built on one side of the Musjid. At about this time, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married Sayyadah Aisha Siddiqa (radi Allahu anha), the daughter of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu).

33. PEACE TREATY WITH THE JEWS

Many Jews also lived in and around the city of Madinatul Munawwarah. They belonged to the tribes of the Banu Nadir, the Banu Quraiza and the Banu Quainuqa. The religion of the Jews is called "Judaism." The Holy Quran calls the Jews, the "Ahle Kitaab" or "People of the Book." This means that many Ambiya were sent to them and Almighty Allah gave some of these Ambiya His Books.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) went to the Jews and told them: "We live in one city; we are all one community. We should help each other and should fight our enemies together. You are People of the Book. You can have your own religion. We should have an agreement of peace and co-operation."

The Jews were happy at this idea. They signed the peace treaty with the Muslims. The Jews felt more close to Islam and the Muslims than to the other pagan tribes that worshipped idols.

But, the Jews, like the Quraish, believed that they were special people. They could not accept the idea that the Arabs could have a Prophet. They did not want the Arabs to become united through Islam. They began secretly opposing Islam through every possible way. The Sahaba were given strict instructions by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) not to fight with the Jews but to have patience.

The Jews were further shocked and agitated when some of their Rabbis (Jewish Priests), like Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Salaam (radi Allahu anhu), whom they held in high esteem, accepted Islam.

34. ISLAMIC STATE OF MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

Now, the Muslims in Madinatul Munawwarah had a government of their own. Madinatul Munawwarah was now an Islamic State. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was the Prophet of Allah, their leader, their guide and their teacher. They met 5 times a day in the Masjid to offer their Salaah. If there was a dispute among them, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) settled it. Each day, the Sahaba learned about Islam from him. In all religious matters, the Muslims obeyed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They faith grew stronger and stronger.

34.1 INTRODUCTION OF THE AZAAN

There was no Azaan to call the Muslims to prayer. The Sahaba used to assemble in the Masjid when the time for Salaah came. At the suggestion of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) accepted the Azaan as a method of calling the Muslims for prayer. Sayyiduna Bilal (radi Allahu anhu) was chosen to be the first Mu'azzin of Islam.

34.2 CHANGE OF QIBLAH TOWARDS MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH

About this time, 17 months after the Hijrah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was commanded by Almighty Allah to change the direction of the Qiblah towards the Holy Kaaba in Makkatul Mukarramah.

Thus far, the Muslims had been facing towards Masjidul Aqsa in Jerusalem while performing their Salaah. When the command was given to change the Qiblah towards Makkatul Mukarramah, the Jews began to object to the sudden change. Those Jews who accepted Islam did want to face towards the Holy Kaaba. They were very angry. They began opposing Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). This incident showed the Sahaba that the Jews were not sincere in accepting Islam. They were not true Muslims. We call them "Munafiqs."

34.3 MORE QURANIC INSTRUCTIONS

Now that the Muslim community was more united and living in peace, more and more Quranic instructions about practical life were laid down by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Zakaah became compulsory. Fasting in the Month of Ramadaan was introduced. The drinking of wine and dealing in interest (Usury) became Haraam. Laws regarding orphans, inheritance, marriage and the rights of women were revealed.

34.4 CHRISTIAN DELEGATION

A Christian delegation of 60 people came to Madinatul Munawwarah. Some of the men of this delegation were very learned. They came from noble families. They said that they came with the intention to learn about Islam. But, their real intention was not to learn about Islam. They came to spread hatred between the Jews and Muslims. Religious discussions took place between the Jews, Christians and the Muslims. When the discussions were over, the Jews and Christians refused to believe in Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) as the Last Messenger of Almighty Allah.

35. EXPEDITIONS

While Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was laying down the Islamic Laws that were to govern the lives of the Muslims, he was concerned with another problem. He knew that the enemies of Islam, the Meccan Kuffar, were not resting. He was sure that they might attack the Muslims in Madinatul Munawwarah.

He send out the Sahaba to see what the Meccan Kuffar were plotting against the Islamic State of Madinatul Munawwarah. These journeys by the Sahaba for a special purpose were called "Sariyas" or "Expeditions." Sariyas are secret missions or reconnaissance for the purpose of watching the movements of the enemy or to spy.

35.1 SARIYAS UNDERTAKEN BY THE SAHABA

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) with 30 Sahaba towards the Red Sea. They spotted Abu Jahl with 300 men. No fighting took place and the Muslims returned safely.

Sayyiduna Ubaydah bin Harith (radi Allahu anhu) was sent to Rabigh in the Hijaz with 60 riders. They met Abu Sufyaan with 200 of his men. No fighting took place.

To confuse the Meccans even more, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent Sayyiduna Saad bin Abi Waqqas (radi Allahu anhu) with about 20 Sahaba towards the South. They returned safely.

35.2 SARIYAS UNDERTAKEN BY SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) also took part in these expeditions. He went to a place called Waddam and succeeded in making a peace treaty with the Banu Qamrah tribe.

A month later, he took 200 Sahaba to a place called Bunat. Two or 3 months later, he went to Yauba to wait for the Quraish caravan headed by Abu Sufyaan, but the caravan had already passed by.

Twenty days after this expedition, Kurz bin Jabir, a Meccan Kuffar, raided the cattle and sheep of Madinatul Munawwarah. He escaped through Badr, and could not be caught.

35.3 KILLING OF AMR BIN HADRAMANI

Another expedition of 12 Sahaba under the leadership of Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Jahsh (radi Allahu anhu) was sent to Nakhlah, a town between Makkatul Mukarramah and Ta'if.

Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu) passed by a Meccan caravan which was returning from Syria. He attacked the caravan. A Meccan, Amr bin Hadrami, was killed. Two persons were captured and the goods of the Kuffar were taken.

When the expedition returned to Madinatul Munawwarah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) disapproved of the attack reminding the Sahaba that he had not given them instructions to fight. He also refused to accept the booty (captured wealth) from Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Jahsh (radi Allahu anhu).

This was one of the incidents that led to the Battle of Badr. The Meccans were angry at this killing and were bent on taking revenge.

35.4 ABU SUFYAAN'S CARAVAN

The second reason for the Battle of Badr to have taken place is through the following incident. Abu Sufyaan was returning from Syria with a caravan of goods. He heard that the Muslims were going to attack his caravan. He sent a fast rider to get help from Makkatul Mukarramah. Much later, when he realized that the attack was just a rumour, he sent another fast rider saying that help was not needed. Meanwhile, the message of the first rider already reached Makkatul Mukarramah. Abu Jahl and other Meccan leaders prepared a large army and headed towards Badr.

PART 5

36. THE BATTLE OF BADR (17 RAMADAAN 2 A.H.)

36.1 MEANING OF "JIHAD"

While the Muslims were in Makkatul Mukarramah, Almighty Allah had not permitted the Muslims to fight. But, in Madinatul Munawwarah the situation was different. Almighty Allah knew of the plans of the Kuffar. Almighty Allah sent Wahi to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that the Muslims were to fight the enemy.

This fighting is one kind of "Jihad." Jihad is the use of all our energies and resources to establish the Islamic system of life, in order to gain Almighty Allah's favour. "Jihad" is an Arabic word which means "to try one's utmost." We make Jihad by also controlling our bad desires and intentions. This is the Jihad within ourselves. In making Jihad we must try and establish what is "Ma'ruf" (right) and remove "Munkar" (evil) from our lives and in the place where we live. A Muslim must make Jihad all the time. The aim of Jihad is to seek the pleasure of Almighty Allah.

36.2 CAUSES THAT LED TO THE BATTLE OF BADR

Some of the main causes that led to the Battle of Badr were:

A. The Meccan Kuffar felt threatened that Islam was becoming powerful in Madinatul Munawwarah.

B. They felt that their trade routes will be lost if Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) succeeded in winning over the other tribes in Arabia.

C. The spread of Islam was going to disrupt their businesses which centred around idol worship.

D. They wanted revenge for the killing of Amr bin Hadrami by a Muslim.

36.3 THE TWO ARMIES MEET AT BADR

Badr is a town between Makkatul Mukarramah and Madinatul Munawwarah.

The Meccan army had already reached Badr waiting to confront the Muslims. They mustered together an army of 1 000 men, which consisted of 700 riders on camels and 300 horsemen. They were fully armed with the best weaponry - shields, armour, arrows and swords. The Meccan Kuffar were confident of wiping out the Muslims.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu allah wasallam) received news of the Meccan army marching towards Badr. He assembled a small army of 313 Sahaba, 70 camels and 2 horses. Very few Sahaba had proper armour and weaponry. Some carried their swords. Many Sahaba marched bare-footed with hardly any clothing on their backs.

The Muslims marched towards Badr. When they reached Badr, on the suggestion of Sayyiduna Saad bin Muaaz (radi Allahu anhu), the Sahaba quickly constructed a thatched roof for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) was his attendant.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) together with some of his Sahaba set out to inspect the battlefield. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was holding a stick in his hand. As he walked on the field, he marked the spot with the stick as to where the Kuffar will be killed. After the battle, the Sahaba found the Kuffar killed on that exact spot as Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) marked!

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spent that night praying to Almighty Allah. The Muslim army slept peacefully.

36.4 GLAD TIDINGS FOR THE MUSLIMS

The Battle of Badr took place on the 17th of Ramadaan on a Friday morning.

Both armies now confronted each other. The Sahaba were given instructions not to attack first. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "None of you should show the sword without my permission, nor should anyone go into an attack. If the enemy attacks you from a short distance, defend yourselves with stones. In case they attack you from a long distance with arrows, then you should defend yourselves in the same manner. Let there be no arrogance in your words, nor even any hue and cry. Remember Allah in every breath, and His Name should always be on your tongue, so that anyone who becomes Shaheed will be blessed with Jannah."

Seeing the huge army that the Muslims were going to confront, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) faced towards Makkatul Mukarramah and prayed: "O Allah! Should this small band of Muslims perish, there would be none to worship You."

Almighty Allah answered his prayers. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave the good news to the Sahaba. He said: "Every one of you that fights today and is Shaheed while busy in Jihad, watching and facing the enemy and not turning his back, will most certainly have Jannah for reward."

The Sahaba were overjoyed by this news. They saw Jannah in their eyes. The huge army of Kuffar meant nothing to them. They were prepared to face anyone and give their lives for Islam.

36.5 THE BATTLE OF BADR

A Meccan, Al Aswad, rushed forward to destroy the water supply of the Muslim army. He was killed by Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu).

The battle first began with single combat. Utba, Shaiba and Waleed - 3 Meccan Kuffar - advanced to face the Muslims. The Muslims responded courageously. Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) killed Utba, Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) killed Waleed and Sayyiduna Ubaidah (radi Allahu anhu) killed Shaibah. The Meccans were shocked at the death of their three soldiers.

The Meccan Kuffar now rushed forward. They started attacking from all front. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) saw this, he appeared in the field with a handful of pebbles. He shouted the slogan of "Shaha-til-Wujuh" (9 faces are turned) and threw the pebbles on the enemies. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) prayed for Almighty Allah's Help. Almighty Allah sent His Malaa'ikah to help Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and His Sahaba. The Malaa'ikah were under the command of Sayyiduna Jibra'el, Sayyiduna Mika'el and Sayyiduna Israfeel (alaimus salaam). They were dressed in white and wore white turbans. They rode spotty horses.

The Sahaba fought bravely. They fought to have the honour to give their life in the Path of Almighty Allah. Two Ansaar boys, Sayyiduna Mo'az and Sayyiduna Mo'awwaz (radi Allahu anhuma) killed Abu Jahl, the enemy of Islam. They saw Abu Jahl riding his camel on the battlefield. They ran up to him and confronted him. One of the boys cut off Abu Jahl's feet while the other attacked him and threw him off his horse. When Akrama saw Abu Jahl, his father, in this situation he ran towards him and attacked Sayyiduna Mo'az (radi Allahu anhu) from behind. As a result his arm was cut. Both the brothers now faced the Kuffar. Sayyiduna Mo'az (radi Allahu anhu) said: "I was feeling quite inconvenient due to the hanging arm, therefore, I put my arm under my leg and removed it. I kept on fighting with one arm until we went to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and told him the god news. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave the slogan twice, 'There is no deity except Allah.'" Sayyiduna Mo'az (radi Allahu anhu) was eventually made Shaheed. Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Masud (radi Allahu anhu) struck off Abu Jahl's head and brought it to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He said: "O! My master, this is the head of the enemy of Allah the Almighty and His Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam)."

Sayyiduna Bilal (radi Allahu anhu) killed his old master, Ummayyah, and his son.

36.6 RESULTS OF THE BATTLE

Soon, the battle was over. The Meccans fled the battlefield leaving behind their wounded and dead. Eleven of their 14 leaders were killed. Altogether, they lost 70 men and 70 men were taken prisoners.

The Meccan Kuffar were so humiliated and shocked by the defeat that Abu Lahab, the enemy of Islam, fell sick with fever and died 7 days later.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Sahaba thanked Almighty Allah for their victory. They knew that they had been victorious only because of Almighty Allah's Help. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Allah had helped you at Badr when you were an insignificant little force; then fear Allah; thus may you show your gratitude." (Surah Imraan: 124)

Fourteen Sahaba were Shaheed in the Battle of Badr. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "And say not those who are killed in the Path of Allah as dead; but they are alive, yes, you are aware." (Surah Baqara: 154)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) stayed in the battlefield for 3 days after achieving victory. First, the funerals of the Shuhada were performed. Later, he ordered that the bodies of the Kuffar be buried. A trench was dug and the 70 dead Kuffar were thrown into the trench. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) stood at the grave and called the names of Utbah, Abu Jahl and other chiefs of the Quraish: "O! The pitters you have found are what Allah has promised you, although I had found what Allah has promised me." When the Sahaba saw Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) talking to the dead, they were astonished. Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) came forward and said: "O Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), are you talking to the dead?" Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "They are also hearing me as much as you can, but only they cannot reply."

The prisoners were taken to Madinatul Munawwarah. They were well-cared for. There were given food to eat and the Sahaba provided them with clothes. Some were set free on ransom. Those who could read and write had to teach 10 Muslims and earn their freedom.

36.7 EFFECTS OF THE BATTLE

The victory at Badr made the Muslims more confident and gave them hope in Islam. The victory strengthened the position of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) in the eyes of the enemy.

The victory dealt a severe blow to the prestige of the Quraish.

There was chaos and confusion in the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. The Kuffar were in a state of mourning and promised to take revenge. The Jews and the Kuffar were alarmed at the new power that had emerged - Islam.

37. OTHER EVENTS (2 A.H. - 3 A.H.)

37.1 The 2 Eid Salaahs were introduced by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Muslims also had to pay Sadqa-e-Fitr at the completion of Fasting.

37.2 Sayyadah Umme Kulthum (radi Allahu anha), the daughter of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was married to Sayyiduna 'Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu). His first wife, Sayyadah Ruqayya (radi Allahu anha), also one of the daughters of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), had passed away.

37.3 Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) married Sayyadah Bibi Fathima (radi Allahu anha), the youngest daughter of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

37.4 Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) married Sayyadah Hafsa (radi Allahu anha), the daughter of Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu).

37.5 EXPEDITION OF SAWIQ

The Meccans did not rest after the Battle of Badr. Abu Sufyaan and 200 of his men burnt a plantation of dates outside Madinatul Munawwarah. They also killed 2 Sahaba. While escaping, they dropped behind bags of pounded dry oats called "Sawiq." This incident was known as the "Expedition of Sawiq."

37.6 THE MUNAFIQS INCREASE

Many Jews and Christians accepted Islam with the intention of weakening Islam from within. They were trouble-makers. They began saying bad things about Islam and started quarrels amongst the Muslims. They were called "Munafiqs" or "Hypocrites."

37.7 JEWS OF THE BANU QUAINUQA ARE EXPELLED

An important event to note here is about the Jews of the Banu Quainuqa. The Jews of Banu Quainuqa were expelled from Madinatul Munawwarah by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). How did this happen?

An Ansaari woman went to buy something from a Jewish shop. There, she was molested. At first, the Jews of this tribe challenged the Muslims to fight. They shut themselves in their fortress. Seeing that they could not win, they eventually gave up. Seven hundred Jews of the Banu Quainuqa were expelled from the city. They settled in Syria.

37.8 PLANS OF THE KUFFAR

Although the Meccan Kuffar were defeated at Badr, they began making preparations for another war against the Muslims.

PART 6

38. THE BATTLE OF UHUD (3 A.H.)

Uhud is a mountain that is some 3 miles to the north of Madinatul Munawwarah. It was here that the second battle of Islam took place. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Allah did indeed fulfill His promise to you when you with His permission were about to annihilate your enemy, - until you flinched and fell in disputing about the order, and disobeyed it after He brought you in sight of the booty which you desire. Among you are some that hanker after this world and some that desire the Hereafter. Then did He divert you from your foes in order to test you. But He forgave you: For Allah is full of grace to those that believe." (Surah Al-Imraan: 152)

38.1 REASONS THAT LED TO THE BATTLE OF UHUD

There were three main reasons that led to the Battle of Uhud. They are:-

A. The Meccan Kuffar had lost many of their best men at the Battle of Badr. They wanted revenge for their losses.

B. The Quraish were humiliated by their terrible defeat at Badr. They wanted to restore their honour and prestige among all the tribes of Arabia.

C. The Quraish aimed at taking over their old trade routes since many were closed to them when Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) made peace treaties with some of the tribes around Arabia.

38.2 MUSLIM AND KUFFAR ARMIES GATHER

After their first humiliating defeat, the Quraish were not going to take any chances. They gathered together an army of 3 000 fully armed soldiers with 200 horses and 3 000 camels. To encourage and urge the men to fight, 15 of the Kuffar women of Makkatul Mukarramah joined this huge army. Abu Sufyaan's wife, Hindah, was the leader of the Kuffar women.

Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu), one of the uncle's of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), did not as yet accept Islam. He lived in Makkatul Mukarramah. When he saw the war preparations that the Meccans were making, he became very concerned. He immediately sent a message to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) warning him of the danger.

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received the news of the Meccan army, he became very concerned for the safety of the Muslims. He called up a meeting with his Sahaba. They decided not to risk fighting the enemy in their city, but agreed to fight them outside Madinatul Munawwarah.

It was a Friday. After Jummah Salaah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gathered together an army of 1 000 men. They marched to Uhud to meet the enemy. On their way, Abdullah ibn Ubayy, the leader of the hypocrites, deserted the Muslim army with 300 of his followers. Thus, the Muslim army was reduced to 700 only. Nevertheless, the Muslims marched to Uhud.

38.3 THE BATTLE BEGINS

The Muslim army reached Uhud on a Saturday. They performed their Fajr Salaah. After Fajr Salaah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) put his army into position. He instructed 50 archers to protect an important mountain pass and told them not to leave their positions under any circumstances. Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Zubair (radi Allahu anhu) took command of the archers.

The 3 000 strong Meccan army moved forward. Both sides now clashed against each other. The Muslims fought bravely, especially Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) and Sayyiduna Jujanah (radi Allahu anhu). Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu) was eventually made Shaheed by Wahshi, a negro slave. The 50 archers protected the mountain pass very well. The Muslim army fought tirelessly and soon had the Kuffar running away from the battlefield.

38.4 ARCHERS DISOBEY ORDERS

The Sahaba and most of the archers who were posted on the mountain pass were overjoyed when they saw the Kuffar running away from the battlefield. Thinking that the battle was over, the archers left their positions and ran to collect the booty of the Kuffar.

Khalid bin Walid, who was a Meccan leader at that time, saw the mountain pass unguarded. He took the opportunity and attacked the remaining archers from behind. He quickly sent word to Ikrama and Abu Sufyaan about the unguarded position on the mountain pass. At once, all the forces of the Quraish turned back on the Muslims. The Muslim army was now completely surrounded.

38.5 CONFUSION IN THE MUSLIM RANKS

The Muslim army was disunited. There was confusion in the ranks of the Muslim army. Sayyiduna Mus'ab bin Omair (radi Allahu anhu), the standard bearer of the Muslim army, was knocked down. Somebody raised a cry that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was made Shaheed. When the Sahaba heard this news, they gave up all hope of fighting.

Meanwhile, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was left alone on one side of the battlefield. Seeing this, one of the Kuffar hurled a stone at Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). It struck him and he fell to the ground. His blessed lip and blessed face was wounded. His blessed tooth was also chipped. Some of the Sahaba, who saw this from a distance, rushed towards him. They formed a barrier around him. They Kuffar tried to attack him but the Sahaba fought bravely to protect him. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) neither cursed nor did he think ill of the Meccans. He only said: "How can a people be successful who dye the face of the Prophet with blood while he is calling them to Allah."

Sayyiduna Kaab bin Maalik (radi Allahu anhu) saw that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was alive and spread word to all the other Sahaba. When the other Sahaba heard this they became determined and fought courageously to drive back the Meccan army.

Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) and other Sahaba moved Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to a safe place. Seven of the Ansaar men were Shaheed while protecting Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

38.6 OUTCOME OF THE BATTLE

Abu Sufyaan's wife, Hindah, together with other Kuffar men and women began cutting up the bodies of the Muslim Shuhada. Hindah chewed the liver of Sayyiduna Hamza (radi Allahu anhu). With many of their leaders killed, the Meccans made their way towards their city.

The Muslims lost 70 Sahaba. They were all buried without Ghusal so that they will present themselves before Almighty Allah in the condition in which they were slain. While they were being buried Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "I shall be witness unto them on the day of Judgement."

After burying the Shuhada, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned to Madinatul Munawwarah. To make sure that the Meccans did not return, he sent Sayyiduna Abu Bakr and Sayyiduna Zubair (radi Allahu anhuma) with 70 Sahaba to pursue the Meccans. When Abu Sufyaan saw the Muslims coming towards his army, he instructed his men to hurry back to Makkatul Mukarramah. The Muslim then returned safely home.

38.7 LESSONS OF UHUD

The Sahaba learnt that discipline on the battlefield and following the commands of their leader, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was of utmost importance.

Almighty Allah sent Wahi about this battle. He told the Muslims to be patient and to trust Him. He promised the Muslims victory if they were faithful to Him. The Muslims hearts were filled were faith and trust in Allah.

The Holy Quran gives a detailed description of the Battle of Uhud in Surah Al-Imraan.

39. OTHER EVENTS (3 A.H. AND 4 A.H.)

39.1 Sayyiduna Hassan (radi Allahu anhu), the son of Sayyiduna Ali and Sayyadah Fathima (radi Allahu anhuma) was born in 3 A.H.

39.2 Some Meccans decided to raid Madinatul Munawwarah. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) heard about this, he sent Sayyiduna Abu Salma (radi Allahu anhu) with 153 Sahaba to pursue them. The Meccans escaped.

39.3 Sayyiduna Zaid bin Thaabit (radi Allahu anhu) became the secretary of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

39.4 Sayyiduna Hussain (radi Allahu anhu), the second son of Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) was born in 4 A.H.

39.5 HUFFAZ MADE SHAHEED

After Uhud, the Kuffar became very bold. Some Kuffar tribes tricked the Muslims. They invited the Huffaz to come to their villages and teach them about Islam. When the Huffaz went to their villages, they were made Shaheed by the Kuffar.

Seventy Huffaz, belonging to the Ansaar, were invited by the tribe of Kilab to teach them the Holy Quran. On their way to Najd, they stopped at a place called Bir-e-Mauna. Amir bin Tufail, a Kuffaar, raised an army against the Huffaz and made all of them Shaheed. This happened in the month of Safar, 4 A.H.

A similar incident took place at a place called Raji. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent 10 Sahaba to Raji to teach their people about Islam. They were attacked by 200 archers. Seven Sahaba were made Shaheed. The other 3 Sahaba were caught and were later made Shaheed.

It was a very trying time for the Muslims. They were patient, and prayed to Almighty Allah for help.

40. EXPULSION OF THE BANU NADIR (4 A.H.)

We learnt earlier the reasons for the Jews of the Banu Quainuqa being expelled from Madinatul Munawwarah. Why were the Jews of Banu Nadir expelled from the city?

40.1 JEWS PLAN TO KILL RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

Sayyiduna Amr bin Umayyah (radi Allahu anhu) was one of the Huffaz who escaped from the Kuffar. On his way back to Madinatul Munawwarah, he saw 2 men of the Banu Amir tribe. Thinking that they were his enemies, he killed them.

When the Huffaz returned to Madinatul Munawwarah, he reported the incident to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The Banu Nadir were friends of the Banu Amir. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) went with 10 of his Sahaba to the Jews of the Banu Nadir to settle the issue.

The Jews welcomed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) with a show of courtesy and friendship. They made him sit below a high wall. While waiting there, he received Wahi from Almighty Allah that the Jews were planning to ambush and kill him. The Jews told a person by the name of Amr bin Jahash to drop a huge rock on Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) from the top of the wall where he was sitting.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was already aware of this plot. He quickly got up and left the house of the Jew. He returned to Madinatul Munawwarah. The Sahaba followed later. He explained to them what had happened.

40.2 BANU NADIR EXPELLED

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent a message to the Banu Nadir to sign a fresh Treaty or leave Madinatul Munawwarah within 10 days.

Abdullah ibn Ubayy, the leader of the hypocrites, promised the Banu Nadir help from the Meccan Kuffar to fight the Muslims.

The Banu Nadir did not respond to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) thinking that help was on its way. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) declared war with the Jews of the Banu Nadir. The Banu Nadir locked themselves in their forts. They waited for help to come from the Meccan Kuffar. No help came.

The Banu Nadir knew that they could not fight the Muslims so they agreed to leave Madinatul Munawwarah. They took most of their belongings and settled in Khaibar, a Jewish centre in the north of Arabia. Others went off to Syria and settled there.

Surahh Al Hashr in the Holy Quran tells us about the banishment of the Banu Nadir.

With the Jews of Banu Nadir now expelled from Madinatul Munawwarah, only the Jewish tribe of the Banu Quraiza and the hypocrites remained.

40.3 ATTEMPTS TO INVADE MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH IN 5 A.H.

After the Battle of Uhud, the Kuffar were under the impression that the Muslims were weak. Many of the Kuffar from different parts of Arabia tried to invade Madinatul Munawwarah and take control. Each time, they failed.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent the Sahaba on Sariyas to look for the trouble-makers and teach them a lesson. The expeditions were very successful. The Sahaba were able to confront the Kuffar and scare them off.

The Muslims in Madinatul Munawwarah now felt safe. As time went by, the Muslims became very prosperous in business. Islam was well-established.

PART 7

41. THE BATTLE OF THE DITCH (KHANDAQ) (5 A.H.)

Another problem was to confront the Islamic State of Madinatul Munawwarah.

41.1 ENEMIES OF ISLAM UNITE

The Jews of the Banu Nadir, who were expelled from Madinatul Munawwarah by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), now planned a massive invasion of Madinatul Munawwarah. They raised huge funds for the war. They rallied the support of the other Jewish tribes, the Meccans, the munafiqs and the other pagan tribes from around Arabia.

Soon, a huge army of 24 000 soldiers assembled and marched towards Madinatul Munawwarah. Abu Sufyaan was the leader of this army.

41.2 TRENCHES DUG AROUND CITY

The Sahaba were shocked at the news of such a large army. The Muslims were few in number. How could they fight such a great army?

As the Sahaba were in consultation and discussions with each other, Sayyiduna Salman Farsi (radi Allahu anhu), a Persian Muslim, suggested an idea. He advised Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to dig trenches all around Madinatul Munawwarah to hold off the enemy. It was a war strategy employed by the Persians.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Sahaba agreed to this idea. They immediately began the task of digging the trenches around the city. It was a difficult job because the land was rocky and hard. It took 3 000 Sahaba to complete the trench in 20 days. Soon the trench was ready. It was 15 feet wide and 15 feet deep. 500 Sahaba were made to guard the Sahabiyah (Muslim women) and 3 000 archers to defend the city at important points.

41.3 SEIGE OF MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

Soon the huge army of the Kuffar arrived outside the city of Madinatul Munawwarah. They were beating their drums and singing their war songs. They were ready to attack the city when they saw the ditch that was dug around the city. They did not know what to do. They had never faced a ditch in a battle before. Crossing it was impossible. So they pitched up their tents on the other side.

The Kuffar decided to lay siege to the city. No food supplies were allowed to enter the city. Days and night passed. Four weeks had gone by and nothing happened during the long siege except for a few exchanges of arrows. Now and then, the Kuffar made attempts to cross the trench. The Sahaba were too vigilant and killed the Kuffar who tried crossing into Madinatul Munawwarah.

41.4 PLAN OF THE BANU QURAIZA

The Jews of the Banu Quraiza were still residents of Madinatul Munawwarah. Thinking that the Muslims were now finally defeated, they began secretly planning to attack the Muslims from inside Madinatul Munawwarah at night. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) heard of this plot. He sent strict warnings to the Jews of Banu Quraiza not to try attacking the Muslims. He told them to think of their position should the Kuffar be defeated!

41.5 ALMIGHTY ALLAH'S HELP

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) prayed to Almighty Allah for help and victory.

The next day, Almighty Allah sent strong winds (cyclone) accompanied by severe lightning and thunder. The Kuffar were terrified. Their tents were torn apart. Their horses and camels were frightened and ran away in all directions. Finally, the Kuffar army fled in confusion. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "O you who believe! Remember the Grace of Allah (bestowed) on you, when there came down on you Hosts (to overwhelm you): But we sent against them a hurricane and forces that you saw not: But Allah Sees clearly all that you do." (Surah Ahzaab: 9)

Thus, the Muslims were given an unexpected victory. Almighty Allah had tested the faith of the Muslims. He had seen how brave they were. And Almighty Allah had promised them victory if they kept faith. Their faith and patience were rewarded by Allah. They gave praise and thanks to Allah for His help.

Thus, the Islamic State of Madinatul Munawwarah was saved!

42. END OF THE BANU QURAIZA (5 A.H.)

The Muslims wanted to live in peace with the Jews but the Jews did not like the Muslims. They were always planning to destroy Islam.

One of the agreements that the Jews signed with the Muslims was that if Madinatul Munawwarah was attacked by the enemy, both the Jews and the Muslims shall join hands in it's defence. But, in spite of these clear undertakings, the Jews went against their word and plotted against the Muslims during the Battle of the Trench.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) knew that as long as the Jews of the Banu Quraiza were in Madinatul Munawwarah they will continue to plan to kill him and to weaken Islam. He had to take action against them.

42.1 SIEGE OF THE BANU QURAIZA

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) first sent a few Sahaba to the Banu Quraiza to discuss and sort out the matter. But the Jews were arrogant and said, "Who is the Prophet of Allah? We have no pact or pledge with Muhammad." They were not prepared to resort to a peaceful solution. In fact, the Banu Quraiza began making preparations to fight against the Muslims.

The Banu Quraiza lived in forts. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) ordered his Sahaba to surround the Banu Quraiza in their forts. The siege lasted for a month. At last, the Jews surrendered.

They sent a message to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to alow them to leave Madinatul Munawwarah just as the Banu Nadir did. But, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) thought about how they had already broken the treaty with him by planning to attack the Muslims during the Battle of the Trench. So, he refused them from leaving.

42.2 A JUDGE IS CHOSEN BY THE JEWS

The Jews of the Banu Quraiza wanted to seek justice in this issue. They chose Saad bin Mu'aad to act as a Judge and pass judgement on the issue. Saad was the Chief of the Auz tribe. He was responsible for getting the Banu Quraiza to sign a peace treaty with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was a very fair person. Saad took oaths from both sides that they follow whatever decision he makes. The Jews and the Muslims agreed to abide by his final decision.

42.3 SAAD'S VERDICT

Both sides waited eagerly for his judgement. Saad finally came to the following decisions:

(a) All those Jews who took up arms against the Muslims should be executed,

(b) Their women and children be held prisoners, and

(c) Their properties be divided amongst the Muslims as war booty.

The Jews were horrified by this decision. The Muslims were pleased.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) ordered his Sahaba to carry out the order. All the Jewish men were put to death, except 4 Jews who accepted Islam. The real culprit of this incident was Huyayy ibn Akhtab. He instigated the Banu Quraiza to join the allies and plot against the Muslims. He was put to death.

42.4 PEACE IN MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

The Muslims were now in complete control in the Islamic State of Madinatul Munawwarah. After the victory of the Battle of the Trench and the complete eradication of the Banu Quraiza, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) could now attend to other problems facing the Ummah. His followers could now live in peace, security and comfort.

Many Munafiqun, seeing the power of Islam, came to the Muslims and said, "We truly believe in Allah and His Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), and we are Muslims."

PART 8

43. MUSLIMS PREPARE FOR UMRAH (6 A.H.)

43.1 DREAM OF SAYYIDUNA RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

It was 6 years since the Muslims left their birth place, Makkatul Mukarramah, and settled in Madinatul Munawwarah. They longed to visit the Holy Kaaba and perform the Tawaaf around it.

One day, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) narrated a dream to his Sahaba - that he was entering Makkatul Mukarramah in Ihram and performing the Tawaaf. They were now sure that Almighty Allah was going to grant them the opportunity of visiting His House, the Holy Kaaba.

43.2 MARCH TO MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH

On the 1st of Zil Qadah 6 A.H., Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) set off for Makkatul Mukarramah with 1 400 Muslims. They all put on Ihraam with the intention of performing Umrah and making Tawaaf of the Holy Kaaba. Strict orders were given not to carry any weapons. Seventy camels were also taken for sacrifice.

43.3 QURAISH STOP ENTRY OF MUSLIMS

When the Quraish heard that the Muslims were coming to their city, they sent Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu), who was not yet a Muslim, and Ikramah to stop the Muslims from entering the city.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was informed about the plans of the Meccans. As he did not wish to fight with the Kuffar, he changed his route. He camped at a place called Hudaibiyah, a place south of Makkatul Mukarramah.

The Meccan forces, seeing that the Muslims were camped at Hudaibiyah, returned to Makkatul Mukarramah. The Quraish then sent a few spies to the Muslim camp to see what the Muslims were planning. The spies reported to the Meccans that the Muslims had come with the sole intention of making Umrah and had no intention of fighting.

43.4 URWAH'S SPEECH TO THE MECCANS

Not satisfied with the report, the Quraish sent Urwah bin Masood Saqafi to speak to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Urwah went to the Muslim camp in Hudaibiyah. He spoke at length with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was convinced that the Muslims did not come to fight.

When he returned to Makkatul Mukarramah, he told the Meccans that the Muslims had peaceful intentions. He also said: "O men of the Quraish! I have visited Choroes, Caesar and the Negus. By God, I have never seen a king attaching himself to his people as Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) does. When Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spits, they rush to receive his sputum in their hands before it touches the ground and anoint their faces with it. Hardly a word escapes his lips before all of them run to carry out his wish. When he makes Wudu, they fight with one another to collect some drop of the used water before it falls to the ground. If anyone fails to get that water, he touches the wet hands of the person who had got it and then rubs his own hands on the face. When they speak in his presence, they speak in low voices. They do not lift their gaze to look at his face, out of respect for him. A hair falling from his head or beard is preserved to get blessings from it and is looked upon as a sacred relic. In short, I have never seen any group of people so devoted to their master as I have seen the companions of Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) towards him."

43.5 SAYYIDUNA 'UTHMAN (RADI ALLAHU ANHU) SENT TO QURAISH

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) still had intentions of performing the Umrah. He sent Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) to Makkatul Mukarramah to speak to the Quraish. Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) spoke to the Quraish about the possibility of the Muslims performing the Umrah. The Quraish suggested that he make Tawaaf of the Holy Kaaba if he wished. He refused, saying: "I shall never do so until Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) does so himself."

43.6 RUMOUR SPREAD IN MUSLIM CAMP

Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) pleaded with the Quraish to allow the Muslims to perform their religious duties in Makkatul Mukarramah. They refused. They told him that they had already sworn not to allow the Muslims to enter Makkatul Mukarramah. The discussions with the Quraish lasted a long time and Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) was delayed. A rumour was spread in the Muslim camp that Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) was killed by the Quraish.

44. BAITUR RIDWAAN - PLEDGE UNDER THE TREE (6 A.H.)

The situation in the Muslim camp was very tense. The Sahaba became restless. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) knew what decision to make: march to the city of Makkatul Mukarramah and encounter the Meccans.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) called his Sahaba together. They met under a large tree. He told them to place their hands beneath his hands and take a pledge (oath). The pledge was to fight till death to avenge the killing of Sayyiduna 'Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu). This Pledge was known as "Baitur Ridwaan" or "The Pledge under the Tree."

Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran about this Pledge: "Allah is pleased with the Believers when they swore allegiance to you under the tree. Allah knows what is in their hearts, therefore, he sent down peace upon them and rewarded them with a near victory." (Surah Fath:18-19)

After the pledge was taken, the Sahaba made preparations to march to Makkatul Mukarramah. They were ready to fight and give their lives for the Sake of Almighty Allah. Just as they were about to leave, word reached them that Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) was alive and not killed as rumoured.

Later, Sayyiduna 'Uthman Ghani (radi Allahu anhu) himself returned safely to the Muslim camp. The Sahaba were very happy to see him.

The pledge that was taken under the tree was a very important event. It strengthened the bond between Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Sahaba. It also proved that the Muslims were prepared to face the greatest danger without any fear.

45. THE TREATY OF HUDAIBIYAH (6 A.H.)

The Meccans refused to allow the Muslims to enter the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. The Muslims were ready to fight for their rights to perform the Umrah. The Muslims remained camped in Hudaibiyah.

The Meccans sent one of their leaders, Suhail bin Amr, to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). After intense negotiations, an agreement between Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the Kuffar were drawn up. This agreement was called "The Treaty of Hudaibiyah."

45.1 CONDITIONS OF THE TREATY

The conditions of the Treaty were that :-

45.1.1 The Muslims would not visit Makkatul Mukarramah that year, but could come a year later and remain there for 3 days only.

45.1.2 There would be a one-sided contract in that the Meccans taking refuge with the Muslims would be handed over to the Quraish, but the Muslims taking refuge in Makkatul Mukarramah would not be handed over to the Muslims.

45.1.3 There would be peace for 10 years and during this period, Muslims could go to Makkatul Mukarramah and the Quraish could go to Syria through the Muslim areas.

45.1.4 Each party would remain neutral in the event of a war between the other and a third party.

45.1.5 Any tribe wishing to sign an agreement with either the Muslims or the Quraish would be able to do so.

The terms of the treaty clearly did not favour the Muslims. Some Sahaba were not happy about it. They were not prepared to accept the offer of the Kuffar. But Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) knew better. He knew how important it was for the Muslims to have peace.

After this treaty was signed, the Muslims returned to Madinatul Munawwarah.

46. THE CLEAR VICTORY

While returning to Madinatul Munawwarah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was informed by Almighty Allah that the treaty was a great victory to the Muslims. Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Surely, we have given you a clear victory." (Surahh Fatah:1)

The Treaty of Hudaibiyah proved to be a great blessing for the Muslims.

Earlier, no Kaafir had been able to visit Madinatul Munawwarah because of the state of war between the Kuffar and the Muslims. Now many of them came to Madinatul Munawwarah. They saw Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), heard the Holy Quran, and met the Muslims. Many Kuffar accepted Islam.

Many Muslims also visited Makkatul Mukarramah and went among the Arab tribes in the desert. They spoke to the people about the teachings of Islam. The Arab tribesman found their Muslim brothers different from other Arabs. They saw that the Muslims feared Almighty Allah, prayed and fasted for Him. They spoke the truth, kept their promises, and helped others. They did not drink or gamble or used bad language. Many Arabs were impressed by the behaviour of the Muslims, and they themselves accepted Islam.

PART 9

47. THE DEFEAT OF THE JEWS AT KHAIBAR (7 A.H.)

The Jews were humiliated when they were expelled from Madinatul Munawwarah. They wanted to destroy Islam completely. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had to take measures against them to stop their mischief.

47.1 JEWISH ARMY AT KHAIBAR

After the Jews left Madinatul Munawwarah, many of them settled in Khaibar, about 16 miles north of Madinatul Munawwarah. Here they lived in forts that were well protected. They were very rich. They spent their wealth to arm themselves with the best weapons of war. They had an army of some 20 000 soldiers in their forts. The Jews began to plot in co-operation with their allies, the Bedouin tribes, to invade Madinatul Munawwarah.

A month after the Treaty of Hudaibiyah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) came to know of their schemes. He marched with an army of 16 000 Sahaba to Khaibar. The Sahaba were well-equipped for war for they knew the strength of the Jews. They reached Khaibar after 3 days.

47.2 MUSLIMS CONFRONT JEWS IN THEIR FORTS

The Jews had 6 strong forts. Hoping to make the Muslims tired of fighting, they split up their armies in each fort. The Muslims had to fight fort by fort.

At first, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) offered to make peace with the Jews. When they refused, he ordered his Sahaba to surround the forts.

The Muslims attacked the fort called Al Natat. The Jews fought with desperate courage, but the determined Muslim army eventually defeated them.

The Jews now moved to the Fort of Qamus. Here, too, they were defeated.

When the Jews moved to yet another fort called Al Saab, they were defeated. Marhab, the leader of the Jews, and a man of immense strength, came out of the fort and invited Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) to combat. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) killed him in the first attack.

The Jews then moved to the fort of Al Zubair. This too fell in Muslim hands. Fort after fort was captured by the Muslim army. Finally, the Jews surrendered. They began to beg for mercy and peace.

47.3 OUTCOME OF BATTLE

The Jews were now at the mercy of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They begged him to spare them their lives. They promised to pay half the produce of their lands to him. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) agreed to their proposal. The wealth of Khaibar was distributed among the Muslim army.

47.4 FALL OF OTHER JEWISH TRIBES

While confronting the Jews at Khaibar, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent his Sahaba to confront the Jews of Fidak. Here the Jews made peace and agreed to give up half of their wealth to the Muslims.

On his way back to Madinatul Munawwarah, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) confronted the Jews of Waadi-ul-Qurra. Fighting broke out and the Jews were defeated. The Jews of Taima surrendered to the Muslim army without fighting.

47.5 POISON BY JEWISH LADY

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Sahaba were invited to a feast by a Jewess, Zainab bin Harith, the wife of a Jewish chief.

They accepted the invitation. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) put the meat to his mouth, the bones of the meat informed him that he had been poisoned. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) immediately spat out the food. He questioned Zainab about the poison. She confessed to this crime.

After 2 or 3 days, Sayyiduna Bishr bin Bara (radi Allahu anhu), a Shahabi who ate the meat, passed away through the effects of the poison. Zainab was given the death sentence according to Islamic Law.

47.6 PEACE ATTAINED

Thus, all the Jews throughout Arabia submitted to the authority of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). They no longer posed a threat to Islam. They now lived in peace with the Muslims.

Those tribes, who did not accept Islam, knew of the strength and power of the Jews of Khaibar - the strong forts they lived in, the amount of wealth that they possessed and of their strong leaders. They knew that it was impossible for anyone to conquer the Jews at Khaibar. Now that the Muslims defeated the Jews, they realised that the Muslim forces are irresistible.

48. INVITING RULERS TO ACCEPT ISLAM (6 A.H. - 7 A.H.)

Islam is the way of life for all human beings, and Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was sent as "Rahmatul lil Aalameen" or "a mercy for all mankind." Now that more and more Arabs were coming to Islam, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent his Sahaba to the rulers of different countries inviting them to accept Islam. He first called his Sahaba to assemble in the Masjid and said to them: "O People! Allah has sent me as one who is compassionate to mankind and the Prophet of all the worlds. Therefore, preach (the message of Islam) on my behalf, Allah will have mercy upon you ..."

These Sahaba or "ambassadors of Islam" carried with them letters inviting the rulers of foreign lands to Islam. These letters carried a stamp of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). The stamp read: "Mohammadur Rasoolullah." These words were engraved on the silver ring which Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) wore.

48.1 HERACULEUS OF BYZANTINE

Sayyiduna Dayah Kalbi (radi Allahu anhu) was sent to the Byzantine Emperor, Heraculeus. The Emperor asked for an Arab to explain to him the message Islam. Abu Sufyaan, the Meccan leader, was at that time in the Byzantine country on business. He appeared before Heraculeus. Heraculeus questioned Abu Sufyaan about Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was so impressed with Islam that he intended becoming a Muslim. But, he did not accept Islam because his people objected.

48.2 KHUSRO PARVEZ OF IRAN

Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Hudayfa (radi Allahu anhu) was sent with a letter to Khusro Parvez of Iran. Khusro considered the letter as a great insult and tore up the letter in anger. When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) heard of this, he said that Almighty Allah will tear up the kingdom of Khusro. This later proved true when Khusro's own son, Shirooya, killed his father.

48.3 MARQUAQAS OF EGYPT

Marquaqas, the Archbishop of Egypt, was also invited to Islam. But, he did not accept Islam. However, he sent presents to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He also sent to two highly respectable girls - Sayyadah Mariya Qibtiya (radi Allahu anha) and Sirrin to Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) later married Sayyadah Mariya Qibtiya (radi Allahu anha).

48.4 NEGUS OF ABYSSINIA

Sayyiduna Amr bin Umayya (radi Allahu anhu) also presented a letter to Negus. Negus had already accepted Islam at the hands of Sayyiduna Jafer bin Abi Taalib (radi Allahu anhu). The letter also requested him to sent back all the Muslims, who were still in his land, to Madinatul Munawwarah.

Sahaba were also sent with letters to many other places. Some accepted Islam, others making their own conditions, while some threatened to fight the Muslims. All the Sahaba returned safely to Madinatul Munawwarah.

49. MUSLIMS ENTER MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH FOR UMRAH (7 A.H.)

The Treaty of Hudaibiya allowed the Muslims to visit Makkatul Mukarramah and perform their Umrah this year.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) made preparations to march to Makkatul Mukarramah with 2 000 Sahaba. Soon, they were within sight of the city and camped outside the city of Makkatul Mukarramah.

The Meccan Kuffar realized that the treaty they had signed had been of an advantage to the Muslims. They were disgusted, but could do nothing. They left their city and took to the nearby hills to watch the Muslims.

49.1 MUSLIMS PERFORM UMRAH

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Sahaba had 3 days to stay in the city. They entered the city, their original home, and made Tawaaf around the Holy Kaaba. They were in Ihraam. Thereafter, they made Sa'i (running between Saffa and Marwa) and sacrificed the animals they had brought with them. The next day, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) led the Sahaba in Salaah in front of the Holy Kaaba. The Meccan Kuffar who were watching from the hills were struck by the magnificent manner in which the Umrah and the manner of worship was performed.

After stayinG in Makkatul Mukarramah for 3 days, the Muslims returned to Madinatul Munawwarah. They were satisfied with the opportunity given to them by Almighty Allah to fulfill an important religious obligation.

49.2 MECCANS ACCEPT ISLAM

Sayyadah Umme Maymunah (radi Allahu anha), the aunt of Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) accepted Islam. She later married Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu), the general of the Meccan army, also accepted Islam and came to Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Amr bin As (radi Allahu anhu), Sayyiduna 'Uthman bin Talha (radi Allahu anhu), and many other Meccans also accepted Islam.

PART 10

50. THE BATTLE OF MUTTAH (8 A.H.)

50.1 MISSION TO BASRA

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent a Sahabi to the Governor of Basra. Basra was under the rule of Byzantine Emperor, Heraculeus. The Sahabi was made Shaheed by a member of the Ghassan tribe. Harith, the Governor of Ghassan, was under orders from the Roman Empire. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) invited Harith to accept Islam. But, Harith threatened Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that he would invade Madinatul Munawwarah.

50.2 PREPARATIONS OF MUSLIM ARMY

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not take Harith's threat too lightly. He knew that Harith was under the command of the Romans and that he will have to eventually encounter the Romans in battle. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent an army of 3 000 Sahaba under the command of Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harith (radi Allahu anhu) to face the Romans.

He instructed the Sahaba that in the event of Sayyiduna Zaid (radi Allahu anhu's) death, Sayyiduna Jafer bin Abi Talib (radi Allahu anhu) was to take command of the Muslim army. In the event of his death, then Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Rawaha (radi Allahu anhu) was to take command of the Muslim army.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) also instructed the Sahaba not to kill any women, children or invalids and not to destroy any trees or houses.

The Muslim army left Madinatul Munawwarah and eventually reached Muttah.

50.3 THE BATTLE OF MUTTAH

Shurahabil, one of Heraculeus's Governors, gathered a large army of between 100 000 to 200 000 Roman and Arab soldiers to encounter the Muslim army.

Both armies met at Muttah. They now engaged in full battle. Sayyiduna Zaid (radi Allahu anhu) led the small Muslim army and was made Shaheed. Sayyiduna Jafer (radi Allahu anhu), 33 years old, then took command. He fought bravely and both his arms were severed from his body. The Kuffar inflicted 93 wounds on his blessed body. He was made also Shaheed. Thereafter, Sayyiduna Abdullah (radi Allahu anhu) led the Muslim army. After a short while, he too was made Shaheed.

Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) now assumed command of the Muslim army. Under his command, the Sahaba fought bravely and managed to push back the enemy. The next morning, through the clever war strategy of Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu), he managed to withdraw his army and returned to Madinatul Munawwarah. The Romans, seeing the courage and determination of the Sahaba, did not pursue the Muslim army.

50.4 THE TITLE OF "SAIFULLAH"

During the battle, Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) broke 8 swords. Because of this, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave him the title of "Saifullah" or "The Sword of Allah."

The Muslim army, although outnumbered by the Kuffar, had complete faith and trust in Almighty Allah and His beloved Messenger, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). It is because of the will and determination to protect Allah's Deen, Islam, that they became fearless in front of the enemies of Islam.

51. MECCAN KUFFAR BREAK TREATY (8 A.H.)

According to the Treaty of Hudaibiyah, any Kuffar or tribe wishing to join the side of the Muslims or that of the Quraish may do so. Consequently, the people of the Khuzaah tribe joined the Muslims and the Banu Baqr tribe joined the Quraish.

51.1 BANU BAQR LISTEN TO QURAISH

The Khuzaah and the Banu Baqr tribes had some old quarrels which had not been settled. The Quraish were aware of the quarrels between the two tribes. They forced the Banu Baqr to take revenge against the Banu Khuzaah for their old quarrels.

One night, the Kuffar of the Banu Baqr tribe attacked the Banu Khuzaah while they were asleep. They killed many people and looted their property. The Banu Khuzaah fled from the Banu Baqr and took shelter near the Holy Kaaba. They complained to the Quraish and asked the Quraish to take action against the Banu Baqr. But, the Quraish kept silent.

51.2 DEMANDS SENT TO QURAISH

The Banu Khuzaah turned to the Muslims for help. They sent 40 men, with Amr bin Salim as their leader, to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and laid a complain against the Banu Baqr.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) listened to them patiently and decided to help them. He sent a message to the Quraish asking them:-

(a) To pay compensation for the victims of the Banu Khuzaah,(b) Not to support the Banu Baqr any more, and

(c) To declare that the Treaty of Hudaibiyah no longer holds valid.

51.3 QURAISH OFFER OF PEACE

The Quraish refused to accept the first two conditions.

But, they were prepared to scrap the treaty. They sent word to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that the treaty was no longer valid. No sooner had they done this did they realise their mistake in scrapping the Treaty of Hudaibiyah. The Quraish knew that the Muslims were now very strong and had an easy opportunity of conquering Makkatul Mukarramah.

They sent Abu Sufyaan to Madinatul Munawwarah to make peace with Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) refused to see Abu Sufyaan. Abu Sufyaan, still desperate for peace, went to Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) hoping to convince him. Having failed to convince him, Abu Sufyaan went to Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu). Failing with him, Abu Sufyaan asked Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) to intervene on his behalf. He also refused. Abu Sufyaan returned to Makkatul Mukarramah and told the Meccan Kuffar what happened. They laughed and mocked at him for pleading to the Muslims.

52. MUSLIMS MARCH TO FREE MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH (8 A.H.)

It was now time for Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to march to Makkatul Mukarramah and free it from the rule of the Meccan Kuffar. Seven years earlier, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and his Sahaba had been forced to leave their homes in Makkatul Mukarramah. Now, they were ready to win back the city from the Kuffar.

52.1 MUSLIM ARMY LEAVES MADINATUL MUNAWWARAH

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had a well thought-out plan. He secretly sent messages to his allies to assemble outside the city of Madinatul Munawwarah. He also instructed them to come properly equipped for battle.

On the 10th of Muharram, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) led his army out of Madinatul Munawwarah. As they marched towards Makkatul Mukarramah, the army grew larger and larger as more and more tribes joined in. After a long journey, they reached the outskirts of Makkatul Mukarramah.

Soon 10 000 Sahaba were camped outside the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. As the evening approached, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave orders to his Sahaba for camp-fires to be lit on the surrounding hills. He did this to instill fear in the Meccans of the huge Muslim presence.

52.2 QURAISH GIVEN WARNING

Seeing the numerous campfires stretching around the hills of their city, the Meccan Kuffar were struck with fear. They knew that they were unable to challenge the huge Muslim army.

Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) saw the strength of the Muslim army and took his family to the side of the Muslims. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) to the Quraish to warn them not to resist the Muslim army. This would prevent the shedding of blood and allow the Muslims to enter Makkatul Mukarramah peacefully.

52.3 PARDON TO AN ENEMY OF ISLAM

The Quraish sent Abu Sufyaan and 2 other Kuffar to spy in the Muslim camp at night. While passing through the camp, Abu Sufyaan was recognized by his voice and captured.

He was taken to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). When Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) saw Abu Sufyaan, he drew out his sword to kill him, but Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) came to his rescue saying that Abu Sufyaan was under his protection. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) instructed Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) to bring Abu Sufyaan to him the next morning.

The next morning, Abu Sufyaan was brought before Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said: "Our aim is to cleanse the Holy Kaaba and make it the House of Allah once again. We have not come to kill anyone. We do not want revenge. We will not fight those who do not fight us."

Abu Sufyaan could hardly believe the words of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He was not expecting to be treated so kindly. He knew that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spoke the truth and kept his word. Almighty Allah now opened Abu Sufyaan's heart to the truth of Islam. He became a Muslim.

Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) turned towards Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and asked: "O Messenger of Allah, Sayyiduna Abu Sufyaan (radi Allahu anhu) is a proud man, would you grant him some privilege?"

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) replied: "Yes, indeed! Whoever enters the house of Abu Sufyaan shall be safe; whoever remains in his house shall be safe and whoever enters the Masjid (Kaaba area) shall be safe."

Sayyiduna Abu Sufyaan (radi Allahu anhu) was pleased with what he heard.

53. CONQUEST OF MAKKATUL MUKARAMMAH (8 A.H.)

53.1 FOUR DIVISIONS OF MUSLIM ARMY ENTER THE CITY

It was morning. The Muslim army marched towards the city of Makkatul Mukarramah. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) came to a hill called Dhu Tuwa. He stopped there and offered Praise to Almighty Allah for having opened the gates of Makkatul Mukarramah to him and allowing him and his Sahaba to enter in peace.

After prayer, he divided his army into 4 divisions giving his Sahaba strict orders not to fight unless in extreme emergency. Each division of the army was to enter from each of the 4 sides of the city. Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) was to lead the Sahaba from the south, Sayyiduna Zubair (radi Allahu anhu) from the north, Sayyiduna Saad bin Obaidah (radi Allahu anhu) from the west and Sayyiduna Qais (radi Allahu anhu) from the southern part, near the mountain of Hind.

Each division of the army set out on their specific routes and positions. They were in complete control of the situation. All the divisions entered Makkatul Mukarramah peacefully except that of Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu). The Kuffar - Safwan, Suhail and Ikrama put up some resistance against the Muslims, but were easily defeated. They fled.

53.2 SPEECH TO THE MECCANS

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then went to the Holy Kaaba. While mounted on his camel, Qaswa, he made Tawaaf of the Holy Kaaba.

He then dismounted. He stood at the door of the Holy Kaaba and delivered a speech to the Meccans. He declared that all pride in race, heredity and wealth was now abolished. He said that the best among men was he who was the most pious.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then told the Quraish: "O Men of the Quraish! What do you think I am about to do with you today?"

"Everything good," they said, "for you are a noble brother and a noble nephew of ours."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said in reply: "I say to you what Nabi Yusuf (alaihis salaam) said to his brothers. 'Have no fear this day; go your way for you are free.'"

The Quraish could hardly believe what they heard from a person who they had driven out from his city of birth; who they fought against; and who they had plotted to persecute and kill. Now he forgave them! This was a very memorable event in history. Never before in history was such compassion and mercy shown towards one's enemies!

54. THE HOLY KAABA IS PURIFIED

54.1 IDOLS ARE BROKEN

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then entered the Holy Kaaba and found it full of pictures and idols. He destroyed all the pictures and broke all the idols into pieces. While breaking the idols, he recited the following verse of the Holy Quran: "Truth has arrived and Falsehood perished; Falsehood, is by nature bound to perish." (Surah Hijr: Verse 81)

54.2 FEAR OF THE ANSAAR

The Ansaar, seeing how merciful Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was towards the Meccans, were afraid that he will now leave Madinatul Munawwarah and live in Makkatul Mukarramah, the city of his birth.

When Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) heard about this, he called the Ansaar and said: "I shall never leave you, by Allah! I have promised to join you in life and death. I shall remain true to my promise."

The Ansaar were so moved by these words that some of them cried.

54.3 FATE OF THE KUFFAR

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gave orders to his Sahaba to execute 17 Meccan Kuffar because they had committed serious crimes against Islam. Most of these Kuffar ran away with their families. Later, most of them returned and were forgiven. Only 4 were killed. Hind, the wife of Sayyiduna Abu Sufyaan (radi Allahu anhu) was forgiven. Ikramah, Abu Jahl's son's, and Safwan bin Omayyah were also forgiven.

54.4 MAKKATUL MUKARRAMAH DECLARED SACRED

The next day, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) heard that a person from the tribe of Khuzaah killed a pagan of the Hudail tribe in Makkatul Mukarramah.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gathered the people together. He told them that Makkatul Mukarramah was a holy place and that no blood must be shed on it's ground. He himself paid indemnity for the pagan who was killed.

The Kuffar saw Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) sense of justice. They saw how merciful he was.

"How good and noble he is!" they thought. "And how beautiful and true the teachings of Islam are!" They too accepted Islam.

The event of the conquest of Makkatul Mukarramah is unmatched in history. It proved that Islam was not spread through the sword.

54.5 OTHER IDOLS DESTROYED

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent Sayyiduna Khalid bin Walid (radi Allahu anhu) to demolish the idol, Uzza. This he did, and returned to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Sayyiduna Amr bin al-As (radi Allahu anhu) was sent to destroy Suwa, the idol at Hudra. This was also successfully carried out. Sayyiduna Saad bin Zaid (radi Allahu anhu) destroyed the idol, Manat.

PART 11

55. BATTLE OF HUNAIN AND TA'IF (8 A.H.)

About this battle, Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "Surely Allah gave you victory on many fields as well as on the day of Hunain. When your numbers elated you but it did not help you. The mountain land was a great disadvantage to the Muslims, they turned back in confusion and retreated..." (Surah Tauba: Verse 25)

55.1 TRIBES OF HAWAZIN AND THAQIF UNITE

When the news of what happened in Makkatul Mukarramah reached the tribes of the Kuffar around Arabia, they became furious. The Hawazin tribe, living a few miles to the south-east of Makkatul Mukarramah, began gathering a huge army to fight the Muslims. They were joined by the Thaqif tribe. The tribes of Nasr and Juslim also joined these Kuffar. Soon they had an army of 4 000 men, women and children.

55.2 KUFFAR PLAN OF ATTACK

The Kuffar army marched to Hunain and camped in the valley. They posted archers covering the pass in the valley. They then hid themselves between the rocks and caves of the mountain pass. Their plan was to attack the Muslim army as they entered the pass. If the Muslim army were to flee, the Hawazin tribe was to launch a full scale attack on them.

55.3 LARGE MUSLIM ARMY

This time, the Muslim army was strong. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) gathered a large army of between 10 000 to 12 000 Sahaba who had conquered Makkatul Mukarramah and 2 000 new Muslims of Makkatul Mukarramah. They were well-equipped and very confident of victory because of their large numbers. Some Muslims thought, "Today our numbers are great, our army is strong, and no one can defeat us."

55.4 THE BATTLE OF HUNAIN

It was just before dawn as the Muslim army entered the valley of Hunain, unaware of the danger that awaited them.

Suddenly, the Kuffar attacked. They showered arrows on the Muslim army from the mountains. The Muslims fled in all directions. Tribe after tribe ran past Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). He stood alone in the valley, with a few of his Sahaba who were from the Ansaar.

Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) saw that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was in a vulnerable position. He saw that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was open to attack by the Kuffar. Sayyiduna Abbas (radi Allahu anhu) shouted for the fleeing Sahaba to return and defend Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), as they had promised. The Muslims realized their mistake. They asked Almighty Allah to forgive them. They returned with renewed faith to face the Kuffar.

In the meantime, the entire Hawazin tribe came out of hiding to face the Muslim army. The Muslims attacked and a fierce battle followed. The Kuffar were completely defeated. They ran, leaving behind their properties, women and children. The booty fell into the hands of the Sahaba. Many Kuffar were taken prisoners.

55.5 THE KUFFAR FLEE TO TA'IF

The Kuffar fled to Ta'if. They locked themselves up in the city. The Sahaba surrounded the city of Ta'if for an entire month waiting for the Kuffar to attack. Seeing that there was no danger of another attack from the Kuffar, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned to Makkatul Mukarramah. A year later, the people of Ta'if accepted Islam.

55.6 FATE OF HAWAZIN TRIBE

The Hawazin tribe later came to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and begged for the return of their women and children. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) sent back their women and children to them. He was merciful and forgave them. Many of them accepted Islam.

56. THE SHARE OF THE ANSAAR

Large quantities of war prize or booty was taken from the Kuffar after the Battle of Hunain.

According to the laws of Islam, one-fifth of the booty belonged to Allah and His Messenger (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) and the balance to the Muslim army. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) distributed most of his share to his former enemies of Makkatul Mukarramah.

When the Ansaar heard how generous he was towards the people of Makkatul Mukarramah, they thought that they were being treated unfairly. Sayyiduna Saad bin Obaidah (radi Allahu anhu) carried the news to Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) called the Ansaar together and said: "O You of the Ansaar! What is this talk which has reached me from you. What is this new thing you have found in your soul? When I came to you, were you not in error and Allah guided you? Were you not poor and Allah made you rich? Were you not each other's enemies and Allah put love into your hearts?"

The Ansaar said: "Yes, Allah and His Rasool are most bountiful and merciful."

"Would you not answer me, O Ansaar?"

"What answer can we give you, O Prophet of Allah! Bounty and grace belongs to Allah and His Messenger."

"But by Allah, if you had wished, you might have said and you would surely have been right and I would confirm your saying thus: You (O Prophet of Allah) did come to us belied and we confirmed your truth, you was forsaken and we helped you; you was driven away and we sheltered you; you was poor and we consoled you.

"O Ansaar! I have made use of the wealth of this world to gain the love of the people so that they may become Muslims and entrust you to your Islam. Are not you, O Ansaar, happy that while people take away camels and goats, you take home the Prophet of Allah with you? I swear by Him in whose Hands is my life, had it not been for the Hijrah I would have been a man of the Ansaar. If people choose one path, and the Ansaar choose another, I would choose the path of the Ansaar.

"O Allah, have mercy on the Ansaar, the children of the Ansaar and the children of the children of the Ansaar."

The Ansaar were so moved by this speech that their beards were wet with tears. They could find no words to express their gratitude at this speech.

All they could say was: "We are happy with the Messenger of Allah as to the division and our share."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) later performed his Umrah and returned to Madinatul Munawwarah.

57. EXPEDITION OF TABUK AGAINST THE ROMANS (10 A.H.)

57.1 THREAT BY THE ROMANS

The Christian Roman Empire in the north was afraid of the growing power of Islam. They wanted to destroy the power of Islam.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) received information that the Romans were making preparations against the Muslims. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) decided to confront the Romans who were a great threat to Islam.

The Romans were very powerful and wealthy. They had already organised a very big army to attack Madinatul Munawwarah. No one could dream at that time, that the Muslim army could defeat them. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) decided to go north to Syria to attack the Roman army.

57.2 THE HARDSHIP ARMY

He sent his Sahaba to all the tribes in Arabia to gather a large army to fight the powerful Romans.

The Sahaba, rich and poor, were asked to give their wealth and their lives for the sake of Islam. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) gave all his wealth to the cause. Sayyiduna 'Uthman (radi Allahu anhu) gave half of his possessions. Soon an army of 30 000 was assembled. Because of the difficulties encountered in gathering the army, the army was called "Jayshul Usrah" or "The Hardship Army."

The Muslim army gathered outside Madinatul Munawwarah. In his absence, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) appointed Sayyiduna Mohammed bin Mashamah (radi Allahu anhu) as governor of Madinatul Munawwarah. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) was asked to also stay behind and to take care of the Muslim families and properties.

57.3 THE JOURNEY

The Muslim army set off towards Syria. The munafiqun amongst the Muslims were scared of the Romans. They made all kinds of excuses to keep from joining the Muslim army, so they stayed behind. They were happy to think that the Romans would crush the Muslims.

The weather was very hot. The way was extremely rough. There was a lack of water. Soon the army reached a place called Hijr where rain fell and the Muslims refreshed themselves.

Finally, the Muslim army, under the leadership of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam), reached Tabuk, not far form the Syrian border.

57.4 VICTORY WITHOUT FIGHTING

The Romans were shocked when they heard that the Muslims marched all the way from Madinatul Munawwarh to Tabuk to face them. They realised that the Muslims must be well prepared, very strong and must have a very large force. They also could not believe how the Muslims survived the long march to the Syrian border. The Roman generals had second thoughts about doing battle with the Muslims. They gave the command to their forces to retreat.

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) did not pursue the Romans, since it was not his intention to invade Syria, but to protect Arabia. This was the last expedition in which Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) participated.

57.5 PEACE TREATIES WITH NEIGHBOURS

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) visited the Arab provinces on the border of Arabia. He also visited many Christian kings. He signed peace treaties with them. They were very happy to be under the rule of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

After 20 days, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned with his army to Madinatul Munawwarah. Those Muslims who had not gone with him were ashamed. They prayed and begged for Almighty Allah's forgiveness. At last, Almighty Allah sent Wahi saying that He had forgiven them.

57.6 BURNING OF MUSJID-E-DHIRAR

A group of munafiqun built a mosque at Dhu Awan, an hours ride from Madinatul Munawwarah. They called this Masjid "Musjid-e-Dhirar." Here, they used to hold their secret meetings to plot against the Muslims. They even invited Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) to pray in their mosque, but he refused.

About this incident, Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran: "And there are those that put up a mosque by way of mischief and infidelity to disunite the Believers - and in preparation for one who warred against Allah and His Apostle aforetime. They will indeed swear that their intention is nothing but good; but Allah does declare that they are certainly liars." (Surah Tauba: 107)

As soon as Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned from Tabuk, he ordered his Sahabas to burn down the Masjid. They carried out his order. The Masjid was burnt down to the ground. The leader of the munafiqun, Abdullah ibn Ubayy, later died through illness. Many munafiqun became true Muslims.

57.7 HAJ TAUGHT

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) then began making preparations to go to Makkatul Mukarramah for Hajj. He sent Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) with 300 Muslims to teach them about Hajj. Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhu) and Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah (radi Allahu anhu) also went to Makkatul Mukarramah.

58. THE YEAR OF DEPUTATIONS (10 A.H.)

The 10th year of Hijrah is known as "The Year of Deputations."

In this year, many delegates from all over Arabia arrived in Madinatul Munawwarah to accept Islam freely. Sahaba were also sent to provinces and places in Arabia and past its borders to teach the new Muslims about Islam. Islam had now become the strongest power in Arabia. Almighty Allah had fulfilled His promises to the Muslims.

Those who remained Christians and Jews were under the protection of Islam.

PART 12

59. FAREWELL PILGRIMAGE AND THE LAST SERMON

59.1 CALL FOR HAJJ

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had already performed Umrah on 2 occasions. He now had the desire to make Hajj.

The call for Hajj went out to all over Arabia. Soon thousands upon thousands of Muslims were pouring into Madinatul Munawwarah. Tents were erected all around this blessed city to accommodate the Muslims. All the Muslims came as brothers in love and respect for one another. There were no enemies in sight. All were the devoted Sahaba of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

59.2 THE HAJJ

On the 26th of Zil Qadah, the Muslims - numbering 114 000, led by Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) marched to Makkatul Mukarramah. They rested at Zul Hulayfah, 6 miles from Makkatul Mukarramah. The next morning they put on Ihraam and recited the Talbiyah and Takbeer. They even stopped to pray at Masjids on the way to Makkatul Mukarramah.

The Muslims reached Makkatul Mukarramah on the 4th of Zil Hajj. They performed all the necessary acts of Hajj.

59.3 THE LAST SERMON

On the 9th of Zil Hajj all the pilgrims assembled on the plains of Arafaat. Soon after midday, riding his camel, Al Qaswa, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) went to the centre of the valley and delivered a sermon. This was the famous last sermon of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Every sentence was related by Sayyiduna Rabiyah bin Ummayyah (radi Allahu anhu) for the Sahaba to hear. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said:

"O People, listen to my words carefully.

"O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Remember that you will appear before Allah and answer for your actions.

"Return the things kept with you as a trust (Amanah) to their rightful owners. All dues of interest shall stand cancelled and you will have only your capital back; Allah has forbidden interest, and I cancel the debts of interest payable to my uncle, Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib.

"O People, your wives have a certain right over you and you have certain rights over them. Treat them well and be kind to them, for they are your partners and committed helpers.

"Beware of Shaytaan, he is desperate to direct you away from the worship of Allah, so beware of him in the matters of religion.

"O People, listen carefully, all believers are brothers. You are not allowed to take the things belonging to another Muslim unless he gives it to you willingly.

"O People, none is higher than another unless he is higher in obedience to Allah. No Arab is superior to a non-Arab except in piety.

"O People, reflect on my words. I leave behind two things, the Holy Quran and my Example, and if you follow these two, you will not go astray.

"Listen to me carefully ! Worship Allah and offer Salaah, observe Saum in the Month of Ramadaan and pay the Zakaah.

"O People be mindful of those who work under you. Feed and clothe them as you feed and clothe yourself.

"O People, no Prophet or Messenger will come after me and no new faith will emerge.

"All those who listen to me will pass on my words to others, and those to others again.

"Have I conveyed the Message of Allah to you, O People?"

The Sahaba answered in one voice, "Yes, you have. Allah is the Witness."

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) said, "O Allah, You are my Witness."

59.4 WAHI

As Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) finished his sermon, the following Wahi came to him from Almighty Allah: "This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you and have chosen Islam as the way of your life." (Surah Maida: Verse 3)

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) immediately recited this verse to all present.

After completing the other rituals of the Hajj, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) returned to Madinatul Munawwarah.

60. FINAL JOURNEY OF RASOOLULLAH (SALLAL LAAHU ALAIHI WASALLAM)

60.1 THREAT OF THE ROMANS

After performing the Hajj, word reached Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) that there was a build-up of Roman troops in the north. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) raised a large army to meet the threat of the Romans. He selected Sayyiduna Usamah bin Zaid (radi Allahu anhu), a 20 year old Sahabi, to command the army.

Just as the army was about to leave for Syria, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) fell ill in the month of Safar 11 A.H. The march to Syria was postponed.

60.2 SUDDEN ILLNESS

Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had a very high fever. He experienced terrible headaches. The effect of the poison, which he had taken at Khaibar, was taking its toll. In spite of his sickness, he carried out his duties.

One night, about the middle of Safar, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) visited Jannatul Baqi with his servant, Sayyiduna Abu Muwayhibah (radi Allahu anhu), and prayed for the Shuhada.

His headaches continued the next few days. Sayyadah A'isha Siddiqa (radi Allahu anha) took care of him. When his fever subsided, he walked to the Masjid to lead the prayers.

He also overheard the gossip about him appointing a very young man to command the Muslim army against the Romans. He decided to speak to the Sahaba about this issue.

60.3 LAST ADDRESS

The following are parts of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) last address to his Sahaba:

"You men! Carry out the mission of Usamah. By my life, if you have been saying against his leadership, you said the same about his father, whilst he is the fittest person for this leadership just as his father was.

"There was a servant of Allah whom Allah gave the choice of this life and of the Hereafter against what was with him; and the servant has chosen what was with Allah."

Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) knew then, that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) spoke about himself.

"I know of nobody who has been a better companion to me than he (Abu Bakr), and if I were to take any man as my Khalil (the most intimate friend), I would choose Abu Bakr ...

" You Muhajirun, I command you to help the Ansaar in all good things."

The speech had been a tremendous strain on Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). As a result of this, he fainted about 3 times. He was unable to lead the Salaah. He ordered Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) to lead the Salaah. This was a clear indication to the Sahaba that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) wanted Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) to be the next leader of the Muslims.

60.4 RECOVERY

On Sunday, the 11th of Rabi-ul-Awwal, Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) condition improved. He was able to walk to the Masjid. He sat beside Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) and read his Salaah. The Sahaba were overjoyed to see him recover from his illness. Sayyiduna Usamah (radi Allahu anhu) was given permission to march to Syria. Sayyiduna Abu Bakr, Sayyiduna Umar and Sayyiduna Ali (radi Allahu anhuma), who were constantly at his side, returned to their daily duties.

60.5 LAST WORDS

Suddenly, Sayyyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) fell very ill. He looked through his window to have a last glimpse of his Ummah. It was Monday, the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal 11 A.H. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) left this world and went into the company of his Friend, Almighty Allah. He was 63 years old. He passed away in his house.

His last words were, "O Allah, The Companion, Most High."

60.6 REACTION FROM SAHABA

The Sahaba were shocked and heart-broken when they heard that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) passed away.

Sayyiduna Umar (radi Allahu anhu) became so emotional that he threatened to kill anyone who said that Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had passed away.

Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), pale and stricken with sorrow, went into the house and kissed Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) forehead. He came out weeping and addressed the crowd with a firm voice: "O Men, if you have been worshipping Muhammad, then know that Muhammad has passed away, but if you have been worshipping Allah, then know that Allah is Living and never passes away."

He then read the following verse of the Holy Quran: "Muhammad is but the Messenger of Allah and Messengers have passed away. Will it be that when he passes away or is killed, you will turn back on your heels? He who turns back does no harm to Allah and Allah will reward the thankful." (Surah Al-Imraan: Verse 144)

The words of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu) struck the hearts of the Muslims. They realized that Almighty Allah was there to help them and the Quran and Sunnah were there to guide them.

60.7 ELECTION OF SAYYIDUNA ABU BAKR (RADI ALLAHU ANHU)

The first duty that the Sahaba had to perform was to choose a leader for the Muslim Ummah. The Ansaar and Muhajirun met on the courtyard of the Banu Saidah and pledged their support for Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu). The next day, all the Muslims pledged their support for him in public. The Muslims called him their "Khalifa" or "Successor."

60.8 BURIAL

After the election of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr (radi Allahu anhu), the Sahaba began preparations to bury Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam).

The Ghusal of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was performed by Sayyiduna Ali, Sayyiduna Abbas and his two son's - Sayyiduna Fadl and Sayyiduna Quthman (radi Allahu anhumul ajma'in). Sayyiduna Usamah bin Zaid and Sayyiduna Shuqran (radi Allahu anhuma) also helped in the Ghusal. No part of Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam's) blessed body was uncovered or seen by any Sahaba.

There was no Janaza Salaah. He was after all the leader of mankind and who was there fit to be the Imam for his Janaza? The Sahaba read Durood and Salaams without an Imam. Then the boys followed in their own Saff. Lastly, the Sahabiyaats followed in their own Saffs. For a short while the Janaza was left for the Malaa'ikah to do the same. His body was not removed from the spot where he had passed away.

Sayyiduna Talha (radi Allahu anhu), a grave digger in Madinatul Munawwarah, dug the grave. Sayyiduna Rasoolullah (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) was buried in the same room where he passed away. It was the room of Sayyadah A'isha Siddiqa (radi Allahu anha).

He was buried on Tuesday night, 13th of Rabi-ul-Awwal 11 A.H.

Durood and Salaams be upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam). Ameen.

"ALLAH AND HIS ANGELS SEND BLESSINGS ON THE PROPHET: O YOU WHO BELIEVE! SEND YOUR BLESSINGS ON HIM AND SALUTE HIM WITH ALL RESPECT." (SURAH AHZAB: 56)