O Level Islamiat P1 Life & Significance of Holy Prophet (SAW-KN) in Medina

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Hijrah 1 – (622 A-D)

The Islamic calendar started as Hijrah with the historic migration to Yathrib. The name of Yathrib was changed to Medina –tun-Nabi, later shortened to Medina.
The brotherhood pact "Mawakhat‟ was established as the Muhajireen (Migrants) and Ansars (Locals) were made brothers to one another – they shared their houses and business.

Charter of Medina was signed between Muslims and Jews (Banu Qanuiqa, Banu Nazir, Banu Quraizah)

Muslims and Jews would be allies; they would help one another whenever there is influence from outside.
Muslims and Jews would respect one another.
Both would share the expenses of the war,
There would be no fight among the Muslims and the Jews.
Holy Prophet (S) would be regarded as the leader of Medina.
Both would enjoy the freedom of religion and practise tolerance.

Masjid-i-Nabwi was constructed. It was a simple square building, the walls were built of unbaked bricks, roof was made of mud, date palm of leaves and stones. The pillars were made of trunks of date palms. Few rooms as Suffas were made for those who did not have place to live. It was a place of worship for Muslims. It was a meeting place, parliament house, military headquarter, a place of learning for Muslims.

Adhan was also made final. It was a call to come for prayers. Hazrat Muhammad (S) did not want ringing of bells to call for prayers. Hazrat Umar (RA) and Hazrat-Zubair had a dream for how call would be made, they recited the words which was named "Azan‟. Hazrat Bilal Habshi was selected as first Muezan-i-Islam who gave the call to prayers.

Second Year Of Hijrah (623 AD)

Qiblah was changed from Jerusalem to the Holy Kaabah at Makkah. Jihad was permitted for Muslims to fight for the cause of Islam with the enemies.

Battle Of Badr (2 A.H)

Causes

The Holy Prophet (S) was the ruler of Medina but the growing power of the Muslims aroused the jealousy and enmity of Quraish who wanted to harm the Muslims. They were seeking an opportunity for punishing the Madinites for giving shelter to the Prophet(S). They also could not tolerate the supremacy of the Holy Prophet(S) they joined with the group of hypocrites under the leadership of Abdullah bin Ubay. The Jews also began to conspire with the Quraish in order to check the growing power of the Prophet(S).

The Quraish often used to plunder in the outskirts of Madina. The Holy Prophet (S) sent a party consisting of nine men under Abdullah bin Jahsh to keep an eye on the movement of the enemy. The party suddenly rushed upon the caravan of the Quraish at Nakhla near Makkah and in a skirmish killed Amr bin Hazrami, the leader of the Quraish. It was the worse enmity between the two at that time, a rumour spread that the caravan of Abu Sufyan was attacked by the Muslims when the former was returning from Syria. At this, the Quraish under the leadership of Abu Jahl sent a vast army of 1000 men to attack Madinah. When the Prophet came to know about this movement, He called a council of war in Masjid-i-Nabwi and decided to fight the Quraish.

Events

The caravan of Abu Sufyan safely passed from Syria and he sent the message to Abu Jahl for retreat, but he wanted to fight the Muslims. So in second Hijrah, Muslims army 313 men advanced towards Badr and they reached first because the Quraish had to join with Abu Suffyan‟s caravan. The Holy Prophet (S) selected the site and settled. It was a good area, as the rising sun would not shine in the eyes of the Muslims. They had the provision of water and they dug several pits to store water to make it readily available to the Muslims then, at night, the Holy Prophet(S) prayed to Allah.

“O Allah! If this small band of men perish, there will be no one alive to worship you and your faith will be destroyed forever”

Allah Says,

“Indeed there was a sign for you when the two armies met, one army fighting in the way of Allah and the other disbelieving, whom they saw as twice their number and Allah strengthens”.

Early in the morning in 623 A.D, the Holy Prophet (S) arranged his small army in lines, then he gave some important instructions:-

“Do not move to break your lines but stay on. Do not commence fighting until I order, discharge your arrows only when the target is within reach when the enemy approaches begin to throw stones with your hands and if he‟s nearer, then fight hand to hand”.

According to the Arabs custom, three leaders of the Quraish, Shaiba, Utba and Walid came forwarded. From Muslim side Hazrat Bilal, Muawya bin Harith and Abdullah bin Rawaha, stepped forward but Qurashites refused to fight them saying that they wanted to fight with their kinsmen. Then the Holy Prophet (S) sent Ubadah Bin Harith, Hazrat Hamza and Hazrat Ali (RA). The three Muslim leaders killed the three Quraishite leaders. Fierce battle started. Abu Jahl was killed by Hazrat Hamza (RA). 70 Qurashites were killed, 70 were taken as prisoners. Muslims only lost 14, 6 were Muhajireen and 8 were Ansars.

Effects:

This was the first battle fought between Muslims and Makkans. The victory of Battle of Badr encouraged the Muslims, their faith also strengthened. Many tribes in the suburbs of Medina accepted Islam. One of the Jew tribe, Qanuqa broke the treaty of Medina. They were expelled from Medina. Many courageous leaders of Quraish as Utba, Shaiba, Abu Jahal and Walid were killed, the Quraish were very angry. Muslims gained great power in Arabia. The Muslims treated the prisoners as, the ones who paid the ransom were released, those who knew reading and writing taught 10 children for a specific period to gain freedom. The others who had no education or money were sent to well to do Muslim families who took great care of them. Later, they accepted Islam. Many miracles by Allah were observed during the battle. The hypocrites under Abdullah bin Ubay became careful. The day of Badr is called Yaum-i-Furqan and “Fatah”.

Battle Of Uhad (3 AH) 624 AD

Causes

Many of the causes of Uhad were the same as of Badr. The Quraish were extremely angry on the defeat in Badr. They wanted to take revenge from the Muslims. They had lost their respect which they wanted to regain. Some Makkans like Abu Sufyan had vowed that they would not take a bath or eat dinnar until they had taken revenge from the Muslims. The hypocrites and the Jews again invited the Quraish to attack the Muslims. The Business community of

Makkah set aside a good amount of their income for next battle. The Quraish had constant threat to the trade caravans of Makkah from the people of Madina. The Quraish wanted to take revenge of the killing of their great leaders. Hinda, the daughter of Abu Jahl wanted to take revenge of her two brothers and father.

Events:

The Muslims were a thousand in number when they started to move out to fight 3000 Makkans at Uhad who were pitched warriors including 700 armoured soldiers and 200 horses. They had 2000 camels and fifteen women who went with them, their General was Abu Sufyan while the cavalry command was under Khalid Bin Waleed who was assisted by Iqramah bin Abu Jahl.

The Holy Prophet(S) held a meeting with his companions to decide for the battle to be fought inside or outside Madina. The Holy Prophet(S) suggested that they should defend Madinah remaining in the city. He wanted to save the Muslims from the risk of an open war. The head of the hypocrites, Abdullah bin Ubbay supported the Holy Prophet(S) suggestion but the majority of the companions of the Prophet(S) decided to fight outside Madina as it would be considered cowardice upon their side.

The next morning army of Hazrat Muhammad(S) reached the sandy plain beneath the peaks of Uhad, he marched into the curve of Mount Uhad and took his position, making the inner opening as his camp. He appointed a batch of 50 archers to take up their positions on the Ainain Hill. These, in co-ordination with the small cavalry under Hazrat Zubair were entrusted with the task of protecting the passage between Uhad and Ainain from being penetrated by the enemy from behind the main Muslim army. The Holy Prophet(S) ordered the archers not to leave their posts until further order. The Holy Prophet(S) divided his army into three battalions. His army consisted of 1000 fighters including 100 armoured men but no horses.

When the Muslim army was very close to the Makkan army, Abdullah bin Ubbay the hypocrite rebelled against the Holy Prophet(S) and separated his 300 men claiming that his opinion about fighting inside Madina was not accepted as he found no reason to fight against the Makkans. So he betrayed the Muslim army and his hypocrisy was revealed. When the Muslim and Makkan army were face to face, the Muslims fought bravely and the condition of Makkan army worsened. The Muslims were gaining victory after victory. The Makkans started to flee. The Muslims were collecting the booty and in the mean time, the archers on the Uhad mountain started to leave their posts. The ready eye of Khalid saw the chance and attacked the Muslim army from the rear. Many Muslims were killed, Wahshi the slave of

Hinda killed Hazrat Hamza. Holy Prophet(S) was sad on the news. He tried to bring the Muslims back, just at that moment, Ubay bin Abi Waqas threw stones at him and injured his tooth and lower lip. Two Makkans injured his forehead and shoulder. He fell unconsciously in a pit, Hazrat Ali (RA) helped him out. A lock of hair fell down while seven companions were martyred while saving him. The battle was intense. There was a rumour that the Holy Prophet(S) was martyred but Kaab bin Malik recognized him and shouted that he was alright. At that time, the Holy Prophet(S) stood on the hill top and called the Muslims together and they went back to Madina.

Hinda got the chance to mutilate the body parts of Hazrat Hamza, Abu Sufyan threatened the Muslims that he would attack them the next year to destroy the emerging Muslim state of Madinah.

Results

A total of the 74 Muslims were martyred and 20 Makkans were killed. Muslims lost the battle. It had a negative effect on the relations with the neighbouring tribes. Many tribes broke their treaties with the Muslims as they took their defeat as their weakness. Some of the tribes became treacherous like Banu Salim who invited 70 missionaries to preach Islam among them and then killed them. The Holy Prophet (S) led many campaigns to bring those tribes to submission. The Muslims got a moral lesson that they would not be able to get victory unless they followed the command of the Holy Prophet(S). It was clear to the Muslims that greed of wealth would lead them to destruction. One of the tribes of the Jews, Banu Nazir, openly broke the treaty of Medinah and became the Muslim enemies. They even tried to kill the Prophet(S). They were expelled from Medina, they therefore settled in Khyber and Syria.

Battle Of Trench (Ahzab or Ditch) 626 A.D (5 A.H)

Causes:

After the battle of Uhad, Abu Sufyan threatened the Muslims and the Prophet (S) that he would attack Madina next year to crush the power of the Muslims. According to the challenge, the Prophet (S) took 1500 men the next year, and went to Badr and waited for the Quraish for eight days.

The growing power and the influence of the Muslims frightened the Quraish and threatened their trade. The loss of the Muslims at Uhad also encouraged the Quraish to attack Madina. The role of the Jews was an important factor which led to the war because they not only invited the Makklans to attack Madina but also instigated other tribes to fight against the Muslims.

Banu Ghatafan and Banu Nazir played a negative role and supported the Makkans against the Muslims.

Events

Twenty chiefs of Jews with some important personalities of Banu Nazir went to Makkah to negotiate an alliance with the Quraish. They became successful in provoking the Ghatafan tribe also against the Prophet (S). All the Jews, their allies and the Makkans combined an army of 10,000 armed men equipped and trained started towards Madina to uproot Islam. When the Prophet (S) was informed, he collected 3000 men but the Jewish tribes of Banu Quraiza and some other hypocrites remained in opposition to the Muslims. The Holy Prophet (S) held a council which agreed on the proposal of Hazrat Salman Farsi to dig trenches to defend Madina. He and the Muslims completed the work in a week's time in the northern part of Madina. It was the most risky and exposed area. The opposition party arrived and settled on the other side of the trench finding no way to approach the Muslims. They were hopeless against the superior planning of Prophet(S) of Allah.

Consequently, they decided to lay siege to Madina. There were small fights in the Trench as the Muslims did not give any chance to the Quraish. Abu Sufyan sought alliance with the Tribes of the Jews as Banu Quraiza promised to help Quraish by fighting from inside Medina. Abu Sufyan was in a hurry and wanted to attack Medina but a Jew leader refused to fight. The Prophet (S) succeeded in winning over most of the Ghatafan tribe who made compromise with the Holy Prophet (S). Fifteen days passed and Makkans and their allies faced shortage of food and fodder for animals. The harsh climate provided help to Muslims and stormy winds started to blow. Their animals started to die and finally one night strong wind blew which overturned all the camps and forced them to retreat. The next day none of the enemies were seen. The Muslims won the war, the pride of the Quraish ended. The Holy Prophet (S) was informed by Allah that this would be the last attack by the Makkans.

Results

It proved a turning point in the history of Islam. The prestige of Quraish was lost. The success of the Muslims improved the position of the Holy Prophet(S) who successfully defended Madina from the attacks of the enemy. The people of Medina recognized the Holy Prophet(S) as the absolute Ruler of the city. The neighbouring tribes became the allies of the Muslims and Islam began to spread rapidly. Banu Quraiza who joined the Makkans were punished. Their own leader Saad Bin Maaz was appointed as the arbitrator of their fate. He decided according to their Book, 400 men were put to death. Women and children were sold as slaves and the rest were expelled who later settled in Syria and Khyber.

Relation Of The Holy Prophet (SAW-KN) With The Jews From 622 TO 632 AD

When the Holy Prophet(S) came to Medina, he signed a charter with the Jews in which they were granted civil and religious right. They decided not to fight one another. The Jews gave assurance that they would work as their allies and would not harm them. The tribes which allied were Banu Qaniqua, Banu Nadir and Banu Quraizah. The Jews, before Prophet(S) arrival thought that the Prophet(S) would be from their religion but the rising power of Islam was a threat to their commercial and economic prosperity. During the time of the Battle of Badr, they did not help he Muslims according to their charter and their leader Kaab openly propagated against the Muslims. He maintained a secret communication with Abu Sufyan. He even tried to murder the Holy Prophet(S). Banu Qaniqua was the first tribe to break the treaty and they fought against the Muslims in the Battle of Badr and Uhad. They also insulted a Muslim woman who went to a goldsmith‟s shop to buy some ornaments but no bloodshed was caused due to the patience of the Muslims. Attempts were made by the Prophet(S) to bring the Jews to the terms but it was all in vain. Thereupon, a siege was enforced against the Banu Qunaiqa. The result was expulsion of the Jews from Madina. In 3 AH, Kaab, the leader of the Jews was executed for his activities against Medina and the Muslims. In 4 AH, Banu Nazir plotted to murder the Holy Prophet(S) as they were expelled from Madina for being against the Muslims in the Battle of Uhad and helping the hypocrites. Those who were in Madina were plotting against the Muslims so the Holy Prophet(S) sent Hazrat Muhammad bin Musailma, a leader of Aus tribe with an ultimatum that they were to leave Medina within 10 days.

The Jews rejected these terms and shut themselves up in their strong hold. At this ,the Holy Prophet(S); led an army against them and laid siege to their fort. After a siege of two weeks, they were banished from Medina.

Banu Quraizah was the third and the last clan of the Jews who did not help the Muslims during Battle of Badr. After that they promised and guaranteed to help the Muslim so they were banished but later on they joined Quraish against the Muslims during the battle of Trench, they revolted inside the city against Muslims, caused murder and bloodshed, endangering the safety of the city. But the Muslims brought the situation under control. After the battle when the Holy Prophet (S) besieged their settlements, they surrendered. Later on, their own leader, Saad bin Maaz became the arbitrator giving them the punishment. The young ones were executed. Women and children were taken as slaves and the old were exiled to Syria. Most of the Jews who were expelled from Madina, took shelter at Khyber. There the Jews began to plot in co-operation with the Bedouin tribes to invade Medina. They looted some Muslims caravans, murdered some Muslims and plundered their houses and properties, even near, the surrounding villages of Madina. In 7 AH, the fortress of Khyber was besieged and captured by the Muslims. The inhabitants of the place were allowed to live there as before, if they contributed a share of their produces to the central government. Once again, the Jews plotted to murder the Muslims but only one culprit was caught and condemned.

Charter Of Christians (6 AH, 627 AD)

IN 6 AH, the Holy Prophet(S) granted a charter to the Christians which was a monument of tolerance. The major points were that they were not to be unfairly taxed, no bishop was to be expelled from his monastery, no pilgrim was to be detained from the performance of pilgrimage, no Christian churches were to be pulled down for the building of mosques. Christian women married to the Muslims were to enjoy their own religion. In case of repair of churches, the Muslims are to help the Christians.

Treaty Of Hudaibiya (6 AH, 628 AD)

In 628 AD, Prophet Muhammad(S) departed from Medina for Umrah as he saw a dream that he was performing pilgrimage in the Holy Kaaba. He accompanied fourteen hundred followers, all of them shared the natural desire to perform the religious ritual. When the news reached the ears of Quraish, they started making preparations of opposing the Muslims. Prophet Muhammad(S) sent Khirash bin Ummayah to deliver the Muslims intentions to the Quraish. However, he was detained and Prophet(S) then dispatched Hazrat Usman bin Affan. Accordingly, accompanied by ten companions he entered Makkah carrying with him a letter of the Prophet (S). He was to meet Abu Sufyan and other leaders / chiefs of Makkah to inform them that Muslims have not come to fight, but unfortunately, he was detained by the Quraish. A rumour erupted in the Muslims camp that he had been murdered. Thus, Prophet Muhammad(S) asked his companions to take a pledge on his hands that they would sacrifice their lives for the cause of Islam. Unequipped with arms as they were, the pledge undertaken showed the intensity of the Muslims love for Allah and his Prophet(S). A pledge was taken on behalf of Hazrat Usman. It was referred to as Bait-e-Rizwan.

The Holy Quran says,

“Allah was well pleased with the believers when they were swearing allegiance to you under the tree. He knew what was in their hearts therefore. He sent down tranquility upon them and rewarded them with a victory near at hand, ---------“

The Quraish dispatched a messenger to conclude a truce which came to be known as “Treaty of Al Hudaibiya”.

Muslims should return this year and would come to perform Umrah the next year.
They would stay in Makkah for three years.
The Arab tribes would be free to enter into an alliance with either party.
Muslims were to come without arms except a sword in the scabbard when they return to Makkah the following year.
If any person would come from Makkah to the Medina, he would be returned back even if he was a Muslim.
If a Muslim would go to Makkah, he would not be allowed to return.
There would be no war for ten years.

The Holy Prophet (S) accepted the treaty in spite of the harsh terms.

Importance Of Treaty Of Hudabiyah

The Muslims were allowed to perform Umrah in the next year. The Muslims got peace from the side of Quraish. This helped them to preach Islam easily in Arabia. The weaknesses of the Quraish were clear when they stopped the Muslims to bring the weapons. Many of the tribes which joined the treaty got a chance to know about Islam. The Muslims who fled from Makkah after accepting Islam were sent back from Madina to Makkah. They moved towards Syria, settled and created problems for the Makkan trade. Two great Muslim Generals, Khalid Bin Waleed and Amr Bin Aas accepted Islam. The treaty was a great victory for Islam. The terms in the treaty showed the greatness of the Holy Prophet(S) and the superiority of his cause. Though, the treaty seemed outwardly humiliating on the part of the Muslims but it gave great advantages to them. His political status as an independent power was acknowledged by the treaty. Moreover ten years truce gave time and opportunity for Islam to expand and force its claims upon the conviction of the Quraish. They became politically and spiritually strong. Allah considered the treaty as a great victory because in two years, the number of Muslims reached 12000 and the Muslims got an opportunity to visit their homeland Makkah.

Invitation To Islam By The Holy Prophet (SAW-KN)

The Holy Prophet(S) dispatched messengers to different countries to deliver the invitation of Islam:-

Letter To Emperor Heraclius

He was impressed by the letter and called Abu Suffyan who was there at that time and interrogated about the Holy Prophet(S). When he revealed the qualities of the Prophet(S), he greatly respected him but did not accept Islam due to the fear of losing his throne.

Letter To The Persian Emperor Khusro Pervaiz

He mistreated the letter by tearing it into pieces. He could not bear the name of Allah and the Prophet(S) on the top. However, soon after the incident he was murdered by his own son as prophesied by Prophet Muhammad(S) before hand.

Letter To Abyssinian Emperor

Negus embraced Islam happily since he was well aware of the truth of Prophethood. He was the one who had granted assylum to early Muslims when they migrated to his land to seek refuge from the persecutions of the Quraish.

Letter To The Chief Of Oman

He accepted the invitation of the Prophet(S) and embraced Islam.

Khyber Expedition (6 AH)

Jews at Khyber had been active since a long time conspiring against Islam and the Muslims of Madina. Since they posed a constant danger to Medina, the Holy Prophet(S) decided to attack Khyber.

The Holy Prophet(S) led an army of 1600 men towards the Jewish settlements at Khyber. Upon receiving the news, the Jews fortified themselves in their strong fortresses which the Muslims then besieged for twenty days. They continued to hurl stones and launch arrows at the Muslims. However, the fortresses were conquered one after the other, but the last one, Qamus was conquered with great difficulty. When one morning the Holy Prophet(S) called Hazrat Ali (RA) and handing him the sword he prayed for his victory. Later, he fought with Marhab and killed him with one blow. There he was given the title of Asadullah, the Lion of God. Many of the Jews surrendered and promised to pay the Jizya and Ushr to the Muslim government and then the siege was conducted.

The Muslims performed Umrah in 7 AH without facing any resistance from the Makkans.

Battle Of Mutah ( 629 AD, 7 AH)

The Muslims envoy to Basra namely Haris bin Umair was killed by an Arab Chief Shurabil at Mutah – Shurabil came under the Byzantine emperor so the Prophet (S) decided to punish the murderer and an army of 3000 Muslims was assembled. During the battle, the troops were commanded at first by Zaid bin Harris, then Jafar bin Abu Talib and Abdullah bin Rawaha who were martyred one by one.

The outstanding bravery of Khalid Bin Waleed scared the enemy forces away and the muslims became victorious.

Conquest Of Makkah (8 AH, 630 AD)

The allies of Quraish, Banu Bakr killed some men of the allies of Muslims from Banu Khuza. There should be no bloodshed according to the treaty of Hudaibiya. The case was taken to the Holy Prophet(S), he gave three proposals.

The Banu Bakr must pay the blood money.
The Quraish should break the alliance with Banu Bakr.
The Quraish must dissolve the treaty.

The Quraish accepted the third option.

The Holy Prophet(S) prepared an army of ten thousand men and moved towards Makkah. At a distance of eight miles from Makkah, the Muslim forces encamped at a place Mar-ul-Zahrah. He asked the companions to light up fires in front of their camps. Abu Sufyan when came on the survey of the out skirts of Makkah, he was caught and brought to the Prophet(S). He accepted Islam. The Holy Prophet(S) declared his House „Al Amen‟, a place of peace, whoever entered his house would be safe. The Muslim army was divided into four groups. They entered Makkah. The Prophet(S) ordered them not to fight if they are not attacked. Abu Sufyan told the Quraish that Muslims were a large army and they could not resist them. All the groups entered easily but there was a skirmish with Khalid Bin Waleed's troop. When Muslims entered Makkah, Holy Prophet(S) cleared the Kaaba from 360 idols. Hazrat Bilal Habshi (RA) was told to call Azaan. The Zuhr prayer was performed, the Holy Prophet (S) recited.

“And declare, the Truth has come and falsehood has vanished: for falsehood is a thing that must by its nature vanish. The Quraish had surrendered. They gathered and cried out”.

“We say and believe, it will be good, you are a noble brother and son of a noble brother”.

Prophet(S) answered.

“There is no blame on you, Go, you are all free”.

The Prophet(S) extended a general amnesty to the Makkans. Even the bitterest enemies of Islam were forgiven, with the exception of less than nine people who were too heinous that they could not be forgiven.

The conquest of Makkah was done so peacefully that it has no parallel in history.

Importance of Conquest of Makkah

The enemies of the Prophet(S) had become his most trusted and faithful allies. The successful conquest established the word „Allah‟ in Makkah. The purification of the Holy Kaabah once again established the fact that the House of Allah must be devoted for His worship and be kept pure from all impurities.

The acceptance of Islam by the Quraish strengthened the political situations. Makkah became accessible to the Muslims for pilgrimage. The conquest of Makkah paved the path for general spread of Islam throughout Arabian Peninsula.

Many Arab Tribes entered the fold of Islam as they were convinced by its teachings. The forgiveness by the Prophet had created a favourable impression in the minds of Arabs.

Battle of Hunain (8 AH)

The Saqif tribe when came to know about the conquest of Makkah by Muslims they wanted to fight against them as they could not tolerate that Kaaba was conquered by muslims. The news of their army came to the Prophet(S), he then raised an army of twelve thousand men and set out to meet the enemy. The enemy attacked the Muslim army by showering arrows which was unexpected for them, many Muslims therefore fled in panic.

The Holy Quran Says,

“Allah has indeed helped you in many battlefields and on the day of Hunain when your greater number had rejoiced you. But it did not help you in the least. The earth vast as it is straightened for you. Then you turned back retreating”.

“Allah then sent down help of angels. It is in the Quran”.

“Then, Allah sent down His tranquility upon His Messenger and on the believers. He sent down armies you did not see. He punished the disbelievers. Such is the reward to disbelievers”.

The Muslims won the battle and captured a vast booty comprising 6000 prisoners and a large number of camels, sheep and silver. Among those prisoners, the foster sister of the Holy Prophet (S) Shayma bint-e- Halima Sadia was brought. She was first treated roughly. When the Prophet(S) recognized her, he spread out his cloak for her to sit on and treated her courteously. She accepted Islam and while learning, she was given three slaves and some sheep. The defeat of Saqif (Hawazin) tribe convinced many other nomadic tribes to accept the supremacy of Islam.

Seige of Taif (8 AH)

With the victory at Hunain, Muslims gained great confidence, they moved towards Taif which was a fortified city with proper water and other supplies. Banu Thaqif under the command of Malik bin Auf went to Taif and fortified there. The Muslim army of one thousand men under the command of Khalid bin Waleed reached Taif and laid siege for 10 to 20 days. The enemy threw stones and shot arrows that many Muslims were wounded and many were martyred. Muslims then camped at a higher place, the Holy Prophet (S) set up a catapult and shelled stones at the forts. A gap was made and Muslims entered under the shelter of water tanks made of wood. The enemy poured molten hot iron which severely injured them. The Holy Prophet (S) ordered to cut the line of enemy and further burn it. The enemy there asked for mercy. Allah‟s Messenger announced.

“Who ever descends from the fort would be freed”.

Many surrendered and were treated mercifully.

The siege lasted for 20 days. The enemy had food supplies in the forts for a year but Muslims were being martyred in a large number therefore the siege was raised but Taif embraced Islam in the 9th year of Hijra.

After the return from Taif the Prophet (S) distributed the booty gathered from Hunain, but a deputation from Hunain came and asked for the restoration of their women and children. The Prophet (S) freed those who came in his share and appealed others to do the same. The Muslims therefore, freed all women and children. This generous treatment forced the Hawazin tribe to accept Islam.

Tabuk Expedition (9 AH)

The Byzantines and Ghassanids were prepared to fight the Muslims growing power. They had planned to crush Medina. The Holy Prophet(S) announced to gather and gave a speech to encourage the Muslims because the journey through desert and shortage of food supplies had weakened many. The Holy Prophet(S) also asked for help of cash and kind: Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) his closest companion brought all from his house and when he was asked he answered.

“I have left the name of Allah and Muhammad (S) in my house”.

On the other hand, Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA) brought half of his household things. Hazrat Usman (RA) who is regarded as the most generous „Ghani‟.

Holy Prophet(S) along with 30,000 men proceeded. The Ghassanids and Byzantines had planned to crush Medina. On reaching the battle field of Tabuk, the Byzantines and Ghassanids were terrified at the approach of the Muslim army. They did not dare to come out to fight. Their army scattered in their own land. Muslims gained great political advantage which they might have got had they been forced to fight. Later, Prophet(S) wrote a protection guarantee letter to the leaders Yanah bin Rawbah, Jarba and Adruh people. The tribes who had been the allies of Byzantine before, were now the supporters of the Muslims and the Islamic state was extended to the borders of Byzantine. Consequently, the Muslim army returned to Madina victorious.

The Farewell Pilgrimage (10 A.H)

During the last decade of Zil Qaadah, 10 A.H, the Holy Prophet directed Muslims to accompany Him for Hajj. They wore their Ehrams in Zul-Haleefah, prescribed Miqat for Madinah. Then they read Talbiyyah.

On the morning of 4 Zil Hajj, the sacred Hajj caravan reached the Holy Prophet (S) proceeded to Mina. He pitched his tent in Arafat plain. Next day, he headed for Arafat Mount.

On 9th Zil Hajj the Holy Prophet (PBUH) delivered his historic sermon at Arafat while sitting on his she – camel.

His historic sermon is:-

Adherence to Quran and Sunnah which he was leaving behind as sources for guidance.
He was the last Prophet(S) and last Apostle of Allah. Islam had been finalized as the last living faith of humanity.
All basic principles and procedures of Islam were to be fully respected and implemented by every one.
He had trampled underneath his feet everything of the period of ignorance.
Muslims were not to go astray and commit any injustice to anyone.
All actions of all people were to be accounted for by Almighty Allah.
People's lives, honour and property were to be respected and considered as sacred,
All retaliatory conflicts and vengeful killings of the ignorance period were prohibited.
All Muslims were to remain mutually knit and united into the eternal bonds of brotherhood and fellow beings feelings.
All females were to be treated jointly in all spheres of life. All rights of the husband and wife were to be respected.
Proper, just and humane treatment to all servants and subordinates was indispensable.
Every Muslim was to stay true to his trust.
All types of usury or interest was abolished with immediate effect.

The Holy Prophet(S) (PBUH) then explained fundamental concepts and procedures of Islam e.g:-

Obedience to Allah and His Apostle.
Gravity of fornication.
Repayment of debts and loans.
Return of temporarily borrowed articles to their rightful owners.
Master – servant relations.
Wife's share in her husband's wealth.
Responsibility of guarantor.

After the completion of the sermon, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) asked the people: “Have I conveyed you Allah's message”? Loud voice went up in the air on all sides” certainly, certainly.” Holy Prophet(S) looked towards the Heavens and said,

“O Allah! bear witness that I have fulfilled my mission”.

He then offered noon and afternoon prayers. Then performed the remaining Hajj rites. At Arafat, the following part of the third verse of surah Al Maidah was revealed.

“This day, I have perfected your faith for you, have completed My bounties for you and, Have approved Islam as the Faith for you”

Holy Prophet(S) hastily conveyed that, they then moved to Muzdalifah where he stayed for one night. After the Morning Prayer, he left for the Jamarah. On 11th and 12th Zil Hajj, he performed Rami (stone throwing at the devil) at all the three Jamarahs returning each time to his tent at the Mina valley. He then sacrificed 63 camels for his life years and rest 37 were sacrificed by Hazrat Ali. Finally, he got his hair cut. After all the rites, they took off their Ihrams and wore usual working dresses.

Significance

It was the first and final Hajj of the final Prophet (S) it has been awarded with four names:-

Farewell Pilgrimage: It is known as Hajj-ut-ul – Widda.
Pilgrimage of Islam: It is known as Hajj-at-ul-Islam. Finalization of Islamic faith.
Pilgrimage of proclamation. It is known as Hajj-at-ul Wada because Holy Prophet preached all that. Allah had directed him to convey to people.
Greatest Pilgrimage: It is known as Hajj-i-Akbar. It was enjoyed by Muslims because they were blessed with the company of Holy Prophet (S).

It is also important because the Arafat Sermon was delivered by the Holy Prophet (S) each word of the address is an eye opener which serves as a light house for various significant aspects of life.

Completion of Islam also took place during this event. Holy Prophet (S) also declared the completion of his noble mission on earth.

The Last Days Of The Holy Prophet (SAW-KN)

The Holy Prophet(S) felt physical pain and on 29 Safar 11, A.H, he was not well. His duration of illness stretched to about a fortnight. He kept visiting, Masjid-i-Nabwi for prayers. He had high fever, five days earlier his demise. He looked extremely weak and exhausted.

On last day, he raised the curtain of his room to have a glimpse of Masjid-i-Nabwi. The congregational prayer was in progress. He became fresh and smiled as the day dawned, he had sent for his darling daughter, Hazrat Fatima. He whispered something into her ear. She started crying, then he whispered again she smiled. First whisper said, “I am soon leaving this mortal world”. The second whisper said,
“From amongst my family, you shall be the first to enter the paradise”. On the same day, Hazrat Fatima received happy news of being the leader of the world women folk”.

He was becoming weak. Fever was becoming high. He dipped his fingers in water to rub his face with wet hand. He then called for his beloved grandsons and kissed them. His will was that his both grandsons be accorded due regard and respect. He then called Hazrat Ali (RA) and showered affections. His last commandments were to offer prayers punctually and take due care of servants and subordinates.

He then brushed his teeth with a miswak. Towards afternoon, a heavy breathing sound began to be heard discharging from his chest. The words heard were. “My Lord is the Great companion” and finally he breathed his last on 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal. 11 A.H.

The Seal Of Prophets

Hazrat Muhammad (S) was the last and the leader of the long line of Prophets and apostles of Allah. It is essential for a Muslim to understand and believe in the doctrine of finality of Prophethood. A Muslim must believe in the unique office and title of the Holy Prophet(S) as the seal of the Prophets “Khatam-un-Nabiyeen”.

Holy Prophet(S) said, “I have been sent for all humanity and I am the last of all the Prophets”

The message and revelations of all previous prophets were limited for specific people, nations, periods and times, areas and territories.

The case of Prophet Muhammad(S) however is quite different because:

His message is universal, eternal and final. It is not all confined to limited people, places and periods.
The Revelations of the Holy Quran have been finalized;
The Islamic Faith has been perfected.

Hence there is no need of any more Prophets after Hazrat Muhammad(S) nor of any revealed books after the Holy Quran, nor any other religion after Islam. All these facts get summarized in the belief in the doctrine of the Finality of Prophethood (Khatim-un-Nabiyyin). This belief is extremely essential for all the Muslims.

O Level Islamiat P1 Life & Significance of Holy Prophet (SAW-KN) in Makkah

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