Prophets of God and the Nations of the World (In Light of Torah, Zabur, Bible and Quran)

Prophets of God and The Nations of the World (In light of Torah, Zabur, Bible and Quran)

Volume -2

Author: Syeda Anwar Zehra Zaidi

English Translation: Prof. Falaknaz Ayaz

Translation Review: Wasi Zaidi

Layout/Maps/Composing: Saeed Mangi (0332-3693814 - 0300-9211933)

www.quranindex.com.pk

In the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful.

CONTENTS Pa

Introduction …………………………………………………………………………...... …..……...……..… 15 An Apology ………………..…………………………………………………………..…….………...…….... 16 Preface …………………………..…………………………………………………………………..………… 17

Chapter - 1 The Races of Japeth s/o NoahA 19 1. Turanian or Ugro Finnish ………………………………….……………………………………………….. 19 2. Plesgians and The Celts ………………………………………………...……….………………………….. 20 3. Europe and Indo-European …………………………………………………………...…………………….. 21 The Island of Crete and the Minoan Civilization ……………………………………………………………... 21 The Dorians ……………………………………………………………………………………….…………... 23 Greece ………………………………………………………………………………………….……………… 23 Aristocracy ………………………………………………………………………….………………………… 24 Ionians ………………………………………………………………………….……………………………... 24 City-states of Athens ……………………………………………………………………….…………………. 25 City-States of Sparta ……………………………………………………………………………………….….. 25 The Greeks and The Persians ………………………………………….……………………………………… 25 Greece and Macedonia ……………………………………………………….……………………………….. 26 Defeat of Raja Porus and his captivity ………………………………………………….…………………….. 28 Return of Alexander ………………………………………………………...………………………………… 28 The Roman Empire …………………………………………………………………………………………… 29 Rome City and its History: …………………………………………………………………….……………… 29 Greek king as Father-god Zeus, became Jupiter …………….……………………………………………...... 30 The Roman Republic ………………………………………………………...………………………………... 31 Rome and Carthage ………………………………………..………………………………………………….. 31 Rome and Parthia ……………………………………………………………….…………………………….. 32 Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire ……………..…………………………….…………………………….. 33 Brief History of Roman Caesars ………………………..…………………………………………………….. 34 Caesar Tiberius Claudius (14-37 AD) ………………….…………………………….……………………….. 35 Caesar Nero (37-68 AD) ……………………………………………..……………………………………….. 35 Caesar Vespasian (69-79 AD) ………………………………………………..……………………………….. 36 Caesar Titus (79-81 AD) ………………………………………………………………………..…………….. 36 Caesar Domitian (81-96 AD) …………………...…………………………………………………………….. 36 Caesar Trajan (98-117 AD) …………………………………..……………………………………………….. 37 Companions of the Cave and the Roman Empire …………………………………………………………….. 37

The City of Ephesus …………………………………………………………….…………………………….. 39 Caesar Marcus Aurelius ………………………………………………………………………...…………….. 40 Caesar Commodus ………………………………………….…………………...... ………………………….. 41 Caesar Diocletian (284-305 AD) ……………………………….……………………….…………………….. 41 1. The Western Sector …………………………………………………………………………………..…….. 41 2. The Eastern Sector …………………………………………………………………………………………. 41 Caesar Constantine the Great (324-337 AD) …………………………………………………………………. 41 The Byzantine Empire ………………………………………………….……………………………………... 43 Theodosius II (408-450 AD) ………………………………………………………………………………….. 43 Caesar Justinian (527-565 AD) ……………………………………………………………………………….. 46 Caesar Maurice (582-602 AD) ………………………………………………………………………………... 47 Caesar Heraclius (610-641 AD) ………………………………………………………………………………. 48 Genuine (Pure) Aryan Race …………………………………………………………………………………... 48 China ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 49 The Shung Dynasty (1500 BC to 1050 BC) ……………………………………………….………………….. 49 The Chon Dynasty (1050 BC-220 BC) ……………………………………………………………………….. 50 The Chin Ti Dynasty (221-209 BC) ………………………………….……………………………………….. 51 The Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 BC) ………………………………………………………………………….. 51 India and Aryans ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 52 Hindustan (Present day Bharat, Pakistan and Bangladesh) Its geography and location ……………………… 53 The ancient People (Inhabitants) of Hindustan ……………………………………………………………….. 53 Aryans in Hindustan …………………………………………………………………………………………... 54 Aryans and the Sacred Vedas …………………………………………………………………………………. 55 The Times of Veda ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 55 1. Rig Veda ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 55 2. The Sama Veda ……………………………………………………………………………………………... 56 3. The Yajur Veda ……………………………………………………………………….…………………….. 56 4. The Atharva Veda ……………………………………………………………………….………………….. 56 The Religion of the Vedas …………………………………………………………………………………….. 56 The Caste System ……………………………………………………………………………………………... 57 Changes in Aryan Religion …………………………………………………………………………………… 59 Four Segment of Life (Ashram) ………………………………………………………………………………. 59 1. Segment of religious learning (Braham-chary Ashram) …………………………………………………… 59 2. Domestic and worldly life segment (Grhist Ashram) ……………………………………………………… 59 3. Life of retirement and seclusion (Van Ashram) ……………………………………………………………. 59 4. Life of religious ascetic (Sanyasy Ashram) ………………………………………………………………… 59 Downfall of the Aryan Religion..Rise of Buddhism and Jainism …………………………………………….. 61 Mahavira and Jainism …………………………………………………………….…………………………… 61 24th TirTkankara …………………………………………………………………….………………………… 61 Teachings of Mahavira ………………………………………………………………………………………... 62 Buddhism and its founder…Siddhartha Gautama Buddha …………………………………………………… 62 4

Siddhartha Gautama Buddha (563-483 BC) ………………………………………………………………….. 63 Siddhartha Buddha as Buddha ………………………………………………………………………………... 64 Teachings of Buddha ……………………………………………………………………………….…………. 65 Asht Marg or Eight Principles of the Noble path ……………………………………………………………... 65 Sermons of Gautama Buddha and Teachings of Buddhism ………………….……………………………….. 66 Return to Kapil-Vastu ………………………………………………………………………………………… 66 Buddha's Stupas ………………………………………………………………….....…………………………. 68 Teachings of Buddha ………………………………………………………………….………………………. 68 Moral and Ethical Duties ………………………………………………………….…….…………………….. 69 Incarnation ………………………………………………………………………………….…………………. 69 Aryan Wart (India), Political Situation (600 BC to 600 AD) ………………………………………...………. 70 1. Kingdom of Ikshivaku ………………………………………………………………………….…………... 70 2. Pururavara …………………………………………………………………………………………………. 70 1. Sapt Sindhu (Punjab) ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 71 2. Madhya Pradesh ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 71 End of Greek Reign and Mauryan Empire (316-232 BC) ……………………………………………………. 71 Chander Gupta. Seleucus and Maxthenes …………………………………………………………………….. 72 Importance of Mauryan Rule …………………………………………………………………………………. 73 Bandu Sara Maurya (297-257 BC) …………………………………………………………………….……… 73 Asoka the Great (297-232 BC) …………………………………………………………………………….….. 73 The Greek Government of Bactria ……………………………………………………………………………. 75 Russian Tribes and Kushan Dynasty ………………………………………….………………………………. 75 Kanishka and Buddhism ………………………………………………………….…………………………… 76 Aryans in Persia ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 77 Parthian Dynasty ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 78 Parthia and Silk Route ………………………………………………………………………………………… 78 The Sassanid Empire of Persia ………………………………………………………………………………... 79 Kasra or Khusrau ……………………………………………………………………………….……………... 80 Hormuz (579-590 AD) ………………………………………………………………………………………... 80 Khusrau Parwez (592-628 AD) ……………………………………………………………………….………. 80

Chapter - 2 Arabia (Location and Size) 85 Hijaz ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….….. 85 The plateau of Najad ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 86 Climate and Soil of Arabia ……………………………………………………………………………………. 86 The Arabs ……………………………….…………………………………………………………………….. 87 The City - Dwellers or The Urbans …………………………………………………………………………… 87 Arab Nation and its Tribes ……………………………………………………………………………………. 87 1. Arab Badia ………………………………….………………………………………………………………. 87 'Aad ……………………………………………….…………………………………………………………… 87 5

Thamud ………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 88 2. Arab al-Ariba ………………………………………….……………………………………………………. 88 The Himyar Kings of Sana (115 BC to 300 AD) …………….……………………………………………….. 95 The Castle of Ghamdan ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 95 The Royals of Tababa or Companions of Tubba ……………………………………………………………... 96 The Companions of Fire (Akhdud) of Yemen ………………………………………………………………… 98 Dam of Ma’rab and the Yemeni Qahtan Tribe's Migration …………………………………………………... 100 Banu Ghusan ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 101 Tanukh, Banu Uzd and Bani Lakhm ………………………………………………………………………….. 103 1. Umra-al-Qays ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 104 2. Al-Nauman Awwal-Alawar ………………………………………………………………………………... 104 3. Al-Mundhir I (418 AD to 462 AD) ………………………………………………………………………… 104 4. Al-Mundhir II Ma'al Sama (505 AD to 554 AD) …………………………………………………………... 104 5.Umra Ibne Hind …………………………………………………………………………….……………….. 104 6. Al-Nauman III (586 AD to 602 AD) ………………………………………………………….……………. 105 Kindah ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 105 Various other Arab Tribes …………………………………………………………………………………….. 106 Amongst these Central and Northern Tribes ………………………………………………………………….. 106 Banu Bakr Bin Wai'l ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 106 Hyksos, Bani Jarhm and Bani Ismail …………………………………………………………………………. 107 Bani Jarhm ……………………………………………….……………………………………………………. 108 IshmaelA and His Mother Hagar ……………………………………………………………………………… 109 Great Sacrifice and IshmaelA …………………………………………………………………………………. 112 IshmaelA settled down in Mecca ……………………………………………………………………………… 118 The Covering of Ka’ba ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 118 Death of Hagar ………………………………………………………………………………………………... 118 IshmaelA and His Teaching …………………………………………………………………………………… 118

Chapter - 3 Race of IshmaelA 120 Race of IshmaelA (Arab-ul-Mustariba) ……………………………………………………………………….. 121 The progeny of IshmaelA and Muslim Ummah ……………………………………………………………….. 122 Time Line (Sajrah) ……………………………………………………………………………………………. 135 Destruction by the king of Babylon and re-emergence of Banu-IshmaelA (Fahr Qurysh) …………………… 136 Qussay Bin Kalaab (398-480 AD) ……………………………………………………………………………. 137 Qussay and the settling of Bani IshmaelA …………………………………………………………………….. 137 Dar-ul-Nadwah ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 137 Aqda-ul-Lwa' ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 137 Arrangements for the poor pilgrims (Rafadha) ……………………………………………………………….. 138 Nadwah ……………………………………………………………………….……………………………….. 138 Hashim ………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 138 6

Hashim and Umayya ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 139 Muttalib Bin Abd Munaf ……………………………………………………………………………………… 140 Abdul Muttalib ………………………………………………………………………………………………... 141 Companions of the Elephant and Abdul Muttalib ………………………………………….…………………. 143 Abdullah ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 146 Birth of Holy Prophet MohammadS …………………………………………………………………………... 146 Date and years of MohammadS's Birth ……………………………………………………………………….. 146 Prophecy of Jesus ChristA about the coming Prophet ………………………………………………………… 148

Chapter - 4 Prophet MohammadS (AhmedS) (Birth and early years) 150 Childhood of Holy Prophet and his up-bringing ……………………………………………………………… 151 Death of AmnaR ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 152 Abu Talib and MohammadS …………………………………………………………………………………. 153 Childhood pastimes of Holy Prophet MohammadS …………………………...……………………………… 154 Battle of Fujjar ………………………………………………………………………………………………... 157 MohammadS and Trade ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 158 Khadija-tul-KubraR ……………………………………………………………………….…………………… 158 KhadijaR and MohammadS ………………………………………………………………….………………… 159 Marriage of KhadijaR and MohammadS ………………………………………………………………………. 160 Birth of AliR …………………………………………………………………………………………………... 162 Reconstruction of Ka’ba ……………………………………………………………………………………… 163

Chapter – 5 Divine response to prayer of AbrahamA (Prophet-hood of MohammadS) 165 Background to the prayer of AbrahamA ………………………………………………………………………. 165 Prayer of AbrahamA …………………………………………………………………………………………... 167 Fulfillment of AbrahamA‟s prayer ………………….…………………………………………………………. 168 Descent of Quran and Revelation …………………….……………………………………………………….. 169 Divine Revelation ……………………………………….…………………………………………………….. 170 Divine Revelation and the Holy Prophet ……………………………………………………………………… 171 Mohammad (pbuh) and Descent of Revelations ……………………………………………………………… 171 Beginning of Revelation ………………………………………….…………………………………………… 172 First Revelation ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 173 To bear the burden of Quran was no easy a task ……………………………………………………………… 174 Abu Talib, Jaffar and Islam …………………………………………………………………………………… 174

Chapter - 6 Meccan Era of Prophet-hood 176 Declaration of Prophet-hood ………………………………………………………………………………….. 176 Start of Preaching ………………………………………………………………...…………………………… 177 Announcement from Mount Saffa …………………………………………………………………………….. 179 First Delegation ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 181 Second Delegation ……………………………………………………………………….……………………. 184 Last Delegation ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 186 Torture of Muslims by the Infidels …………………………………………………………..……………….. 194 Prophecy of victory of Rome after its‟ defeat ………………………………………………………………… 196 Migration to Abyssinia ………………………………………………………………………………………... 197 Ameer HamzaR and Islam …………………………………………………………………………………….. 201 Utba bin Rabiya‟s Offer ………………………………………………………………………………………. 202 UmarR and Islam (6th year of prophet-hood) ………………………………………………………………..… 205 The Abyssinian delegates accept Islam ……………………..………………………………………………… 206 Quraiysh intentions of Prophet‟s Assassination ……………………………………….……………………… 207 The social Boycott of the House of Banu Hashim (616 AD Moharram, 7th year of prophet-hood.) ……..…. 208 Year of Grief (The death of Abu TalibR and KhadijaR) ……………………….……………………………… 211 City of Taif and Preaching of Islam ………………………………………………….……………………….. 212 The Prayer of the Prophet ……………………………………………………………….…………………….. 213 Acceptance of Islam by the Jinns …………………………………………………………...………………… 213 Return of the Prophet to Mecca ……………………………………………………………….………………. 214 The Revelation of Surah Kausar ………………………………………………………………….…………... 215 Guidance for achieving high morality ………………………………………………………………..……….. 217 Ba’it Uqba Oulaa (Oath of allegiance at Uqba) ……………..……………………………………………….. 217 Mairaj-un-Nabi.(Ascension of the prophet to heavens) ………….…………………………………………… 218 Surah Najam and Mairaj-un-Nabi ……………………………………………………………………………. 222 Why Mairaj (Ascension) was needed …………………………………..…………………………………….. 224 Marriage with SaudaR ……………………………………………………….………………………………… 226 Marriage with AyshaR binte Abu BakrR ………………………………………..……………………………... 226 The Second Pledge of Allegiance (Bai’t-e-Saani) ……………………………………………………………. 227 Split of Moon (The Last Sign of Indication towards Guidance) ……………………………………………… 228 Divine Command to Migrate …………………………………………………………….……………………. 231 Prophet's Migration from Mecca to Medina ………………………………………………..………………… 232 The Bargain (Giving up this life for the cause of God) ……………………………………….……………… 233

Chapter -7 Madina-tun-Nabi (Yathrab) (The City of the Prophet) 237 The Ancient and Present day Inhabitants of Yathrib …………………………………………..……………… 237 Jews …………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 237 8

Aous and Khizraj ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 238 Battle of B’aas ………………………………………………………………………………………….……... 238 Yathrib the City of Immigrants ……………………………………………………………………………….. 239 Location of Yathrib …………………………………………………………………………………………… 240 The Trade Route of the Quraiysh ……………………………………………………………………………... 240 The Prophet of God in Yathrib ……………………….……………………………………………………….. 241 The Construction of Masjid-e-Nabvi.(The Prophet‟s Mosque) ………………………………………………. 243 Saffa and Companions of Saffa ……………………………………………………………………………….. 244 The construction of Rooms for the Prophet‟s Wives …………………………………………………………. 244 Call for prayer (Azaan) and Congregational prayers …………………………………………………………. 245 Medina-tun-Nabi (The City of the Prophet) ………………………………………….……………………….. 245 The Financial and Political Status of Medina ………………………………………………………………… 245 1. The Ansar (Locals) …………………………………………………………………………………………. 245 2. The Mohajirin (Refugees) ………………………………………………………………………………….. 246 3. The Munafiqun (Hypocrites) ……………………………………………………………………………….. 246 4. Jews ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 247 Prophet‟s initial reforms in Medina ………………………………………………………………………………. 248 Islamic Brotherhood …………………………………………………………………………………………... 249 The Charter of Medina ………………………………………………………………………………………... 251 Conditions of the Agreement …………………………………………………………………………………. 251 The Trade Route of the Quraiysh ……………………………………………………………………………... 253 The Change of Direction towards the Ka’ba …………………………………………………………………. 253 The Murder of Umer Bin Hazrmy ………………………………………………….…………………………. 256 Ghazwah and Siriyyah ………………………………………………………………….…………………...... 258 Badar and Ghazwah Badar ………………………………………………………………...…………………. 258 Consequences of Badar ……………………………………………………………………….………………. 263 Jehad ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 265 Spoils of war (Anfal) ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 268 Prisoners of War …………………………………………………………………………….………………… 270 Status of Muslims in Medina and outside …………………………………………………………………….. 271 2ndHijri and its Important Events ………………………………………………………………….………….. 272 (i).Fasting ………………………………………………………………………………….………………….. 272 (ii).Eid-ul-Fitr and Fitra ………………………………………………………………………….…….…….. 274 (iii). The Arrival of AyeshaR in Prophet‟s House …………………….……………………………...……….. 274 (iv). Marriage of AliA and FatimaA (1stZil-Hajj 2ndHijri) ………………..……………………………………. 274 (v). The Home of AliA and FatimaA ………………………………………….………………….……………. 277 (vi). HaffsaR ……………………………………………………………………..……………….……………. 278 (vii). Birth of HassanA ……………………………………………………………….………….…………….. 278 (viii). ZainabR, RuqqyaR and Umm-e-KulsoomR ……………………………………….…………………….. 278 (ix). RuqqyaR ……………………………………………………………………………….…………………. 278 (x). Umm-e-KulsoomR …………………………………………………...…………………………………… 279 9

(xi). ZainabR …………………………………………………………………………………………….…….. 279 (xii). The Death of Usman Bin Mazu‟nR ………………….…………………………………………….…….. 279 (xiii). The breach of agreement by Jews …………………………………………..………………………….. 279 (xiv). Exile of Banu Qynqah …………………………………….…………………………...……………….. 280 (xv). The First Khums of War Spoils ……………………………….…………………………..…………….. 281 (xvi).Eid-ul-Azha and First Sacrifice ………………………………….…………………………..………….. 281 (xvii). Exile of Banu Nadyr ……………………………………………….………………………….……….. 281 (xviii) The End of Banu Quryza ……..……………………………………………………………….……….. 283 (xix) The Attack of the Quraiysh on Medina (Ghazwah Al-Saweeq 2ndHijri, 624 AD) ………………..…..… 283 Ghazwah Uhad, (Saturday 10thShawwal 3rdHijri, 26th January 625AD) ……………………………...……… 284 The Prophet‟s Sword and Abu Dajaana …………………………………………………..………………….. 285 Start of the Battle ………………………………………….………………………….……………………….. 286 The News of Defeat at Medina ……………………………………………………………………………….. 291 Women and Uhud Battle-field ……………………………………………………………………….……….. 292 The Martyrs of Uhud and their Funerals ………………………………………………..…………………….. 293 Return to Medina and the mourning of the Martyrs ………………….……………………………………….. 294 The injured soldiers of Uhud …………………………………………….…………………………...... …….. 294 Ghazwah Humrat-ul-Asad …………………………………………...…….………………………………….. 295 Reason of Defeat in Uhud and its Consequences …………………………….……………………………….. 296

Chapter - 8 Social Reforms (3rd Hijri to 9th Hijri) 299 The Rights of Orphans and Widows ………………………………………………………………………….. 299 Marriage with Widows …………………………………………….………………………………………….. 300 Codes of respect …………………………………………………………………………...………………….. 300 Respect of the Prophet‟s Home and that of His Family ………………………………………………………. 303 Respect for the Wives of the Prophet …………………………………………...…………………………….. 304 Prophet‟s Wives as Role-models ………………………………….………………….……………………….. 305 The adoption of ZaydR by prophet ………………………………………………………...………………….. 305 The number of prophet‟s wives …………….……………………………………………………...………….. 308 Hijab for women (5th and 6th Hijri) …………………………………………………………………..……….. 312 The background ……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 312 The Rights and Responsibilities of Women ……….………………………………………………………….. 314 Zihar, Divorce and Khula’ …………………………………………………………………...……………….. 314 Zihar …………………………………………………………………………….…………………………….. 315 Oaths of abstention from wives …………………………….…………………………...…………………….. 316 Divorce ……………………………………………………………………………….……………………….. 317 Khula’ ………………………………………………………………………………………………...……….. 317 Laying foundation of a stable Home ………………………………………………………………………….. 317 The three principles, which lead to disaster ……………………...…………………………………………… 321 10

The institution of Home …………………………………………………………...………………………….. 323 Reforms of Financial Matters ……………………………………………….………………..……………….. 325 Charity …………………………………………………………………..…………………………………….. 326 Zakat ……………………………………………………………………………………….………………….. 328 Khums …………………………………………………………………………...…………………………….. 329 Fay …………………………………………………………………………………….....……………………. 330 How did the Prophet handle Fay …………………………………………………………….……….……….. 331 Ban on Interest ………………………………………………………………..………………………………. 333

Chapter -9 From Ghazwah-e-Ahzab to Peace Pact of Hudybia 335 Ghazwah-e-Ahzab, (Shawwal 5th Hijri i.e, February 627 AD) ……………………………………………….. 335 The force of unbeliever‟s alliance …………………………………………………………………………….. 335 Prophet‟s defensive strategy ………………………………………………………………….....…………….. 336 Siege of Medina …………………………………………………………………………...………………….. 337 Conditions in the City …………………………………………………………………………………..…….. 337 The Deceptions of Infidels and Jews …………………………………………………………...………….….. 338 Prophet‟s defensive Tactics ……………………………….…………………………………….…………….. 339 Start of the Battle …………………………………………….……………………………….……………….. 340 Consequences of Ghazwah-e-Ahzab ………………………………………………………………………….. 342 Ghazwah-e-Mustlaq. (Sha’ban 5th Hijri i.e, November/December 627 AD ) ……...………………………… 343 An altercation between a Muhajir and Ansar ……………………………………….……………..………….. 344 JavairyaR …………………………………………………………………………………...………………….. 345 AyeshaR and the incident of Ifk ……………………………………………………………………………….. 345 Important Events. 4th Hijri to 6th Hijri, (June 624 AD) to (April 628 AD) ……...……………………………. 347 Events of 4th Hijri …………………………………………………………………….……………………….. 347 1. Sarya Abu Salma (Muharram 4th Hijri) ……………………………………………………………...…….. 347 2. Sarya Ibne Anees (Muharram 4th Hijri) ……………………………..………………………….………….. 347 3. The Incident of Byr Mauna (Saffar 4th Hijri) ……………………………………………………….……… 347 4. Banishment of Banu Nadyr (Rabi-ul-Awwal 4th Hijri) ……………………..……………………………… 347 5. Death of Fatima Binte AsadR ……………………………………………………………………...……….. 348 6. Death of Abdullah Ibn-e-UsmanR (Jamad-ul-Awwal, 4th Hijri) …………………………………………… 348 7. Birth of HussainA (3rd Sha’aban 4th Hijri) ………………………………………….……………………… 348 8. Marriage with Zainab Binte KhazymaR (Ramazan 4th Hijri) ………………………….…………………… 348 9. Zayed Bin ThabitR and Hebrew Language …………………….…………………………………………… 348 10. Marriage with Umm-e-SalmaR (Shawal 4th Hijri) ……………….……………...………………………… 348 11. Case of the Jews ………………………………………………………………………………….……….. 348 12. Laws of inheritance, and banning of wine …………………………….………………………………….. 349 Important Events of 5th Hijri ………………………………………………………………………………….. 349 Ghazwah Domat-ul-Jandl …………………………………………………………...……..…………………. 349 Banu Qurayza were exiled from Medina ………………………………………………...…………………… 349 11

Marriage with Zainab Binte HajshR …………………………...……………………………………………… 349 Important Events of 6th Hijri ………………………………………………………………………………….. 349 1. Ghazwah Bani Lahyan (Jamad-ul-Awwal 6th Hijri) ………………..……………………………………… 349 2. Ghazwah Zyqard ………………………………………………………..………………………………….. 350 3. The Expedition of Fidk ……………………………………………………...………………….………….. 350 4. Charter of Rights to the Priests of St. Catherine …………………………………………………………… 350 Peace Pact of Hudybia (Ziquad 6th Hijri) ………………………………………………...…………………… 351 Departure for Umra ………………………………………………………………..………………………….. 351 Site of Hudaibiya ……………………………………………………...……………………..……………….. 352 UsmanR and Bait-e-Rizwan ………………………………………………..………………………………….. 353 Bayt Rizwan …………………………………………………………………………………..……………….. 353 Pact of Hudaibiya ……………………………………………………………………….…………………….. 354 The terms of the Pact were as under ………………………………………………………………………….. 354 Consequences of Hudaibiya Pact ……………………………………………………………….…………….. 354

Chapter - 10 Invitation of Islam to neighboring states 357 The Jewish Forts of Khyber …………………………………………………………...……………..……….. 359 United Front against Islam ……………………………………………………..………………………….….. 359 Ghazwah Khyber ………………………………..…………………………………………………………….. 360 Victory of Qamoos and Khyber …………………….…………………………….………………………….. 361 Killing of Harris …………………………………………..…………………………………………………... 362 Killing of Marhb and Untr …………………………………...………………………..…………………….... 362 Land of Khyber …………………………………………………………………………………….………….. 363 Valley of Alqwa and Fidk ………………………………………………………………….………………….. 363 Return of the Asylum-seekers from Ethiopia ……………………………….………………………………… 363 Umra-tul-Qaza (Zi-Quad 7th Hijri) ……………………………………………..…………………..……..….. 364 Entry of Muslims in Mecca ………………………………………………………...……………….……..….. 364 Entry in Ka’ba and Umra …………………………………………………………………….……………….. 365 Battle of Mauta (Jamad-ul-Awwal 8th Hijri) ………………………………………………..………………… 366 Reason of War ……………………………………….……………………………………………….……….. 366 Departure of Army from Medina ………………………………………………….………………………….. 366 The Battle ……………………………………………………..…………………………………….…..…….. 367 Importance of Battle of Mauta …………………………………………….………………………………….. 369 Conquest of Mecca. (Ramazan 8th Hijri i.e, January 630 AD) ………..……………………………………… 369 AbbasR joined the prophet ………………………………………………...….……………………………….. 371 Meccans surprised …………………………………………………….……...... …………………………….. 371 Abu Suffyan and Islam ……………………………………………….……………………………………….. 372 Entry of the Prophet in Mecca …………………………..…………………………………………………….. 372 Entry in Masjid-e-Haraam …………………………………...……………………………………………….. 375 Entry in the Ka’ba …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 376 12

Sermon of Victory …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 376 Allegiance of the Meccans ……………………………………..………………….………………………….. 377 Destructions of Idols outside Mecca ………………………………………………………………………….. 379 Ghazwah Hunyn ……………………………………………………………………………...……………….. 380 Causes of the Battle ………………………………………………….…………………………….………….. 380 The Battle …………………………………………………………………………….……………………….. 381 Ghazwah Autas ………………………………………………………………………….…………………….. 383 Siege of Tai’f ……………………………………………………...…………………….…………………….. 383 War Spoils of Hunyn, Prisoners of War ………………………………………………………………………. 384 Important Events of 8th Hijri ………………………………………………………………………………….. 387 Birth of son Ibrahim ……………………………………………………………….………………………….. 387 Death of ZainabR ……………………………………………………………………..……………………….. 387 Saraya’s in 8th Hijri. (KhalidR Bin Walyd and Massacre of Banu Khazima) ………………………………… 387 Sarya Ka‟ab Bin U‟mmyr …………………………………………………………………………………….. 388 Sarya-tul-Khabt ……………………………………………………………………….…………...………….. 388 Sarya Abu Qatada …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 388 Zaat-ul-Salasil expedition …………………………………………………………………………………….. 388 Surah Tehreem and the Wives of the Holy Prophet ……………...…………………………………………… 389 Ghazwah Tabuk, 9th Hijri, month of Rajab (October 630 AD) ………..……………………………………… 391 Causes of Battle …………………………………………………………...………………….……………….. 391 The truthfuls, the ordinary believers and the hypocrites ……………………………………………………… 393 (i) The Truthfuls ………………………………………………………………….…………..……………….. 393 (ii) The Ordinary Believers …………………………………………………..……………………………….. 393 (iii) The Hypocrites …………………………………………………………………………..……………….. 393 House of Swaylem …………………………………………………………….……………...…...………….. 393 Mosque of Darar ……………………………………………………………..………………..…..………….. 394 The Departure of Muslim Army from Medina ………………………………………………………...……… 394 Muslim Army v/s Caesar Heraclius …………………………….…………………………………………….. 395 Victory of Tabuk and its benefits ……………………………………………………….…………………….. 396 Demolition of Darar Mosque …………………………………………………………..…………………….. 396 The Prophet and his Companions blessed …………………………………..………………………………… 397 Repentance of those who stayed behind ……………………………………………………………………… 397 The year of Delegations ( )……………………………………………....………………………….. 398 Delegation of Tai‟f …………………………………………………………………...……………………….. 398 Delegation of Banu Tamym (A Quraiysh Tribe) ……………………………………………………………… 398 Contesting for Glory …………………………………………………………………………….…………….. 398 Delegation of Banu Saad …………………………….………………………………….…………………….. 399 Banu Hars Bin Ka‟ab (Najran Tribe) ……………………..………………………………………………….. 399 Banu Muzyna and its Poet (Quraiysh Tribe) …………………..……………………………………………… 400 Banu Fazara ………………………………………………………...…………………………..…………….. 400 Banu Asad ………………………………………………………………...…………………………….…….. 401 13

Banu A‟amir Bin Sa‟sa‟ ……………………………………………………...……………………………….. 401 Delegation of Banu Hamyr ………………………………………………………..………………………….. 401 Delegation of Najran ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 405 Tribe of Tay …………………………………………………………………………………………..………..

Chapter – 11 Events of Ninth and Tenth Hijri 407 Immunity Proclamation ………………………………………..………………………………..…………….. 407 10th Hijri ………………………………………………………………..………………………….………….. 409 Yemen and its Tribes ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 409 (i). Kandah Tribe ………………………………….……………………………….………………………….. 410 (ii). Dos Tribe …………………………………………..……………………………………….…………….. 410 (iii). Ashra’ys Tribe ……………………………………………………………………..…………………….. 410 (iv). The Tribes Hamdaan, Jazyma and Mazhajj ………………...…………………………………………… 410 Hajj-tul-Wida’a (10th Zilhajj i.e, March 632 AD) ……………………..……………………………………… 411 Number of Pilgrims …………………………………………………………………………..……………….. 412 Zul-Halifa / (Myqat of Madina) ………………………………………………...…………………………….. 412 Rites of Hajj ………………………………………………………………………...………..……………….. 415 (Stay in Mina) ………………………………….…………………………………………..………………….. 415 Stay at Arafat ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 415 Last Sermon (Khutba-Al-Wida) ………………………...…………………………………………………….. 415 Ghadyr Khum ………………………………………………….……………………………..……………….. 419 Return to Medina ……………………………………………………………………………..……………….. 422 11th Hijri Events ………………………………………………………...…………………………………….. 422 1. Lashkar-e-Usama ……………………………………………………………….………………………….. 422 False Claimants of Prophet-hood ………………………………………………….………………………….. 423 Muslyma Kazaab ……………………………………………………………………………..……………….. 423 Talheya Assady ……………………………………………………………………………...….…………….. 424 The Last Engagements of the Prophet …………………………………………………………..…………….. 424 Protection of Islamic State ………………………………………………………...………………………….. 424 Protection of the Holy Book ………………………………………………………..…………………...…….. 425 Domestic responsibilities ……………………………………………………………………….…………….. 426 Illness and Death of the Holy Prophet ……………………………………………………….……………….. 427 Death and Funeral …………………………………………………………………………………………….. 430 Prophet‟s Legacy ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 432 Sons and daughters of the prophet ………………………………………………………………...………….. 434 Sunni school of thought ……………………………………………………………………………………….. 434 Shia Objection ……………………………………………………………………………………………..….. 435 Children born to KhadijaR from MuhammadS. (Shia viewpoint) ……………………………………………... 436

Introduction

The translation of second volume is being presented with the hope that it will be appreciated like the first volume.

When I embarked on the difficult journey of translating this religious historical book, I had many apprehensions. Yet the idea clicked as it provided a chance to assist and guide the future generation.

I personally have great confidence in the youth of this era and rely on their intelligence, curiosity, wisdom, capabilities of discernment and interpretation, once facts are placed before them. They know pretty well how to assess and form opinions and beliefs.

Hence I leave it to the future generation with the hope that this book will answer many of their questions and will assist them to form a clearer concept of their religion and its history.

Falaknaz Ayaz

An Apology

Dear readers!

I apologize for not including the third part in this volume. The bulkiness of the book prevented me from doing so. InshaAllah that part will also be published soon as Volume 3.

Please over look and forgive the printing errors which occurred in the first volume. Such errors, although minimized to a great extent, but could still occur in the second and third volume too, I tender my apology in advance.

Syeda Anwar Zehra Zaidi

Preface

This virtuous accomplishment is not my own It couldn't be done without God's help

After presenting Volume-1 of Prophets of God, I take the opportunity now to present Volume-2 of this series, although after a considerable delay. I am sorry for this. Don't ask me the reason; it is nothing else but a bit of ill-health and an attempt to overcome difficulties coming in my way.

The fact is that in this period of turmoil (at the end of times), it appears more difficult to write a book on History of Islam than to cross the bridge of Sirat ( ).

Readers may recall that Volume-1 of this series covered the period from AdamA (the first prophet of God) to the races springing up from Haam ( ) and Saam ( ), the two sons of prophet NoahA. In the progeny of Saam was born the great prophet AbrahamA whose two sons IsaacA and IsmailA became the forefathers of two great races i.e, Bani Israel and Bani Ismail. The history of Bani Israel was covered in Volume-1, while that of Bani Ismail is now presented in this Volume-2. Additionally, Volume-2 also covers the races that sprang up from Japeth, the third son of NoahA.

(God Willing), the Third Volume will provide a history of the four caliphs with special reference to Imams in the family of Prophet MohammadS. It may be kept in mind that the history of prophets would have remained incomplete if it did not contain the history of Imams of the family of MohammadS. It is so because the great prophet AbrahamA had prayed.

“Oh God, appoint Imams in my progeny”.

This prayer was accepted by God but with a condition, that: “The position (of Imamat) will be out of reach of (unjust transgressors)”.

This declaration of God is clearly highlighting the unbreakable tie between prophet-hood and Imamat. (God Willing), the fourth volume will provide the history of this tie and will deal with the two puzzling questions:

(i). How did Islam spread in the Indian sub-continent? (ii). What was the contribution of Imams of the House of MohammadS and their off-springs, in this spreading out of Islam?

To enter in this arena of academic controversies was not an easy decision, but the following verses of Maulana Haali prompted me:

O, the best of the best of prophets, may prayers help your Ummah as it faces a dire situation.

Your religion which sprang out from its native land with un-matchable glory, has become powerless and resourceless in a foreign land.

Your Ummah has become like a lifeless body as it stands on the edge of a dangerous abyss. May God help it survive.

These verses which are constantly recited in Primary schools had made me restless from those early child-hood years to the time when I studied in University for my Masters. To satisfy my curiosities I searched everywhere and tried to study any book or any material on this subject which I could find.

It is my sincere wish now that whatever I have gained from those long years of study, I must pass on to the future generation.

May God help me in this effort. Anwar Zehra Zaidi

Chapter - 1 The Races of Japeth s/o NoahA

Post the great floods, NoahA's ark stopped at mount Judi. The Prophet of Allah NoahA, along with his companions and three sons (Japeth, Shem and Ham) left the ark, and stayed in the valley for a brief period. But they soon left, perhaps because of cold climate and absence of a water source like a river. The passengers of the ark moved out and made another region their abode which came to be known as the kingdom of Bactria historically.

Spirit of Islam Bactria is a plateau in the north of present day Pakistan along Hindu Kush range Syed Ameer Ali and in its west flows the river Oxus. To some extent this land can be called as Page: 7 present day Afghanistan. At later times the fertile soil and mountainous beauty of this area, made the Arabs call it “Mother of Countries”.

The descendents of NoahA prospered and multiplied in this region. However when their population exceeded the size of the area, migration started. Tribes and clans spanned out in all directions.

Initially the progeny of Ham s/o NoahA migrated, and established their state in Babylon and Egypt. They ruled the land from 3000 BC to 2000 BC.

During the same period, Shem s/o NoahA's descendents too decided to travel in search of new lands. When they reached present day Iraq, the land of Tigress and Euphrates Rivers, they settled here and then branched out towards Arabian Mountains and Oasis.

History calls these races as:- 1. Turanian Ugro Finnish. 2. The Pelasgian and The Celts. 3. Indo-Europeans. 4. Aryans.

1. Turanian or Ugro Finnish:

Spirit of Islam The descendents of Japeth s/o NoahA for unknown reasons moved out from Syed Ameer Ali Bactria before 2000 BC and travelled towards the north and north-east. Here Page: 7 to 9 they settled and became the forefathers of the Mongolians.

Some clans moved on towards north-west to Azerbaijan, Hamadan and Geelan. This region situated in the south and south-west of the Caspian Sea was called “Media” in the past. Later on a few clans migrated towards south-east and reached Babylon, they attacked and over-powered the descendents of Ham.

Time inter-linked both races to form a powerful nation called Acadian. The same are named Kushite in the Torah.

This inter-linked race laid the foundation of Babylon.

The nation became famous as Turanian deriving its title from the area called Turan situated in the north of River Oxus. Second part of their title Ugro Finnish was adopted when they spread along the shores of Ural Sea and foot hills of Mount Ur. Soon they developed a common language called Ugro Finnish and those who spoke it were called “The clans speaking Ugro Finnish Language”.

2. Plesgians and The Celts:

Some descendents of Japeth s/o NoahA had left prior to 2000 BC and proceeded to North-West, crossing Asia Minor (present day Turkey) reached France and Czechoslovakia. Some clans moved on after a while and settled in Italy, Greece and Islands of Mediterranean Ocean.

The History of the Those who made Greece their home land were called “Pelasgian” which World. means Non-Greek inhabitants of Greece. Page- 156-61 However those who reached Britain, Scotland and Ireland became Celts.

Both the Pelasgians and Celts remained named tribes for centuries.

Though they were a brave, hard-working, strong race of warriors, yet they were easily over- powered and often moved on leaving their land for others. Despite their qualities they failed to establish big cities, or build powerful states and governments.

This racial trait was evident when the Romans attacked Italy in 390 BC. The Celts under the command of their chief Brennus fought bravely, but failed to push back the Romans. Although they brought great destruction on Rome but were unable to conquer it. They limited themselves in Gaul and Britain. However they could not retain these areas too for long. The Romans struck again and conquered Britain, the Celts then became their subjects and only Ireland and Scotland succeeded in keeping their freedom.

During the reign of Caesar Julius (100-44 BC) the population of Celts in the Roman Empire was seven hundred thousand. Majority were farmers or soldiers, who lived in poverty and small mud houses.

Julius Caesar, was impressed by their courage and fighting spirit in the battles at Gaul. Being a wise ruler he decided to channelize and utilize their strength and fighting spirit for the benefit of his empire. He enlisted them in the Roman army. They proved a precious asset for the Romans, and for centuries the Celt warriors defended the Roman Empire. They proved their worth in 5 AD, when the Huns, Goths and Vandals savagely attacked Rome and succeeded in destroying the western part. It was the Celtic power (Byzantines) who saved the Roman Empire from the barbaric invaders. Thus The Byzantine Empire remained intact.

3. Europe and Indo-European:

In the north of present day Pakistan Hamyr river flows from the Hindu-Kush range, it was also called Oxus and later on as Amu in historical records. Flowing from its source towards the north, it falls into the Ural Sea, after forming its delta. On the northern shores of the Ural Sea, is a range of high and low mountains, which are spread as far as the Arctic Sea. This whole region is named “Land of Ural”.

River Amu, Ural Sea and Ural mountains form a natural boundary of Europe.

The progeny of Japeth s/o NoahA crossed those natural borders to enter Europe. Here they got the name of Ugarian after the Sea.

As some tribes proceeded further and settled in the valleys of Caucasia Mountains, a range situated between the Caspian and Black Sea, they became famous as Caucasians.

For centuries this exodus continued and the race of Japeth marched through far off lands, while some stayed behind, others moved forward. Thus a group of this race reached the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the north, leaving behind Caucasia and settled down in its numerous islands in the eastern and western waters.

Though these migrating races originated from Bactria, but their journey of centuries through lands of diversity and their settlements developed different cultures and languages, which gave birth to diverse civilizations. Historically they were referred as Indo-European Races.

The Island of Crete and the Minoan Civilization:

The New Lexicon On the western shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the south of the Aegean Sea, Webster's Dictionary and Greece and in the north of Africa there lies a strip of an island which is 120 Page: 228 & 637 miles long and 30 miles wide, this island is Crete.

The History of the Till the beginning of the twentieth century, it was historically believed that World. European culture and civilization took birth in 1500 BC, when humans entered Page-40-47 Europe.

However the archeological discoveries of Sir Arthur Avans and his team, in the island of Crete, changed this belief and took the period of European civilization further 1500 years back i.e, 3000 BC.

These excavations at Crete have uncovered long lost buildings, worship places, palaces with corridors adorned with pictures, these discoveries have written a new chapter in European ancient history, which in brief is as follows:

In 3000 BC the Indo-Europeans entered Greece through the Crete Island. They are the founders of the European culture and civilization. Their society was agrarian; the majorities were farmers, while the rest were sailors. This group had arrived under the guidance of their tribal chief who was also their religious head, called “Minon, The Priest king”. This provides evidence that till the time of 21 settling in this land the descendents of Japeth followed the faith of their great ancestor NoahA, the prophet. The father of Minon was Zeus and his mother's name was Europe.

The very names suggest that a time came after their settlement, the faith changed, and a new cult was born, in which ancestors and forefathers were worshipped. The father got the status of god (father of all gods and goddesses) and the mother land was named after the mother, Europe.

It is stated that the wife of Minon, Pasiphae, gave birth to an uncommon queer child, who possessed a human body, but the head of a bull, they named him Minotaur. This child had an extra- ordinary growth, and soon became such a powerful Being, that he bred dread and awe amongst the Cretians. So much so that to keep him at bay, human sacrifice was offered. This started a new cult in the land.

During the excavations of the ancient city of Knossos, near the ruins of Minon's palace, ruins of a Labyrinth are uncovered, on the walls of which are engraved with pictures of Minotaur. There is also a scene showing a strong man Thesens killing Minotaur. The inscriptions on these walls along with drawings indicate that Minotaur was worshipped by the Cretians for centuries.

The Crete civilization between 3000 BC to 1500 BC consisted that of hard-working peace- loving people. They were literate people, who knew how to read and write. They used copper for their needs and made knifes, daggers, utensils of copper. Copper was also used in the building of boats. Cretians were the first Europeans to build a merchant fleet. This fleet helped them in trading with Egypt and Asia Minor. They traded in silk, Linen, Wine and grains.

They lived in small villages, but built houses of two and three stories. This peaceful flourishing civilization was destroyed by an earthquake in 1500 BC.

This calamity stuck the Cretians as a result of their deviation from the faith of NoahA, just like it had happened to all those nations who renounced God's worship and made new cults, believing that preaching of messengers and prophets was false.

It seems that God withdrew His Blessings from them when they started worshipping Minotaur. All heavenly help and Divine Compassion abandoned them, and they were left on the mercy of earthly and heavenly disasters.

Those who survived the earthquake were few, yet they succeeded in re-establishing their settlements on the island. However barely a century had passed when Crete was attacked by Barbarians from Greece.

The invaders belonged to the city of Mycenae, hence were called the “The Myceneans”. Their invasions continued from 1400 BC to 1200 BC. They completely destroyed Crete and its civilization and burnt down the splendid city of Knossos. The Palace, the labyrinth of Minotaur was turned into ashes, and all those who survived were made slaves.

The Myceneans after the conquest of Crete settled down as civilized people. They learnt a lot from the Cretian slaves and established the cities of Athens and Mycenae. However this settled living failed to tame their savage nature and urge for fighting. They invaded the neighboring land

22 and mistreated the defeated people. Their lust of power and authority over others, made many enemies on the neighboring lands. Constant aggressive and combative policy gave them little respite to plan a stable rule.

Their neighbors too belonged to the same warriors' race, so when they got a chance they invaded, destroyed, massacred and burnt down their cities; the survivors were taken as prisoners and slaves. After Crete they attacked the eastern shores of Mediterranean Sea and besieged Troy the famous city of Asia Minor. These invaders are called Myceneans by historians. However the famous poet Homer in his epic Iliad and Odyssey calls them Achaeans.

The History of the The epic of Homer without giving any historic details, relates the siege of Troy World. by the Achaeans. The siege continued for nearly 10 years. In 1200 BC, Troy Page-100 was conquered, and the fort was burnt down after a great massacre. The invaders left the city in ruins.

These invaders were more savage and fierce. Their lust for power and show of strength took them as far as Syria, Asia Minor and Cyprus. This tide of disaster destroyed whatever came in its way till the end of 1200 BC. However the end of the century turned the tables and the oppressors became the oppressed, as they became victims to a new race of warriors, who arrived from Bulgaria and Yugoslavia.

The Dorians:

The remnants of the Cretian civilization faced annihilation at the hands of the Dorians. They attacked, burnt, killed, slaughtered, imprisoned and wiped out the last signs of the glorious Cretian civilization.

However Athens on the Acropolis somehow escaped the devastation which in itself is regarded as a miracle in history. Athens soon rose to glory and gave birth to the first European civilization.

Greece:

The History of the The Greeks claim to be the direct descendents of Joran the youngest son of World. Japeth. Page-100 This race entered Greece from the north spread towards the south-west of Greek and the north of the Mediterranean Sea. Reaching the Ionian Sea they settled down. The Italians called them “Greek Races”, and after them the whole region between the Ionian and Agean Sea, was named Greece. In Asia, Greece is called “Unaan” and the Greeks “Unaany”.

The Dorians brought with them the expertise of using iron. They made iron tools and handed them to the Achaeans slaves who worked on their farms. Iron tools replaced wooden ones, hence a revolution occurred in the agriculture field. The fertile lands yield increased bringing prosperity. The 23 use of these tools soon reached the banished Achaeans too, through these Achaean brothers of Greece.

This knowledge helped them in gaining wealth, and soon they became so powerful that their cities became strong forts. The progress, wealth and strength these Achaeans achieved, made the Dorians spread out their hand of friendship and peace to them.

Aristocracy:

The Dorians had a political system of kings and chieftains, who ruled over them and were their leaders. Now as land became the source of power, each feudal lord declared his city a state, thus came into existence the Greek city-states. The new political system was called “Aristocracy”. Which is a combination of two parts, “Aristos” (The Best) and “Kratos” (government) hence Aristocracy means “The Best Government”.

This system had fully established itself till the 8th century BC and remained intact for a considerable period.

When the population increased to such an extent that inadequacy of land and resources was felt the city-states needed colonies, and established them. The Dorain city-state of Megars made Byzantine (in Asia) their colony, whereas Corinth made Syracans (in Sicily), so much so that a time came when Italy in the west became full of Greek colonies.

Ionians:

Those Mycenaean who had settled on the islands of the Ionian Sea, soon were known as the Ionians.

Ionian Sea is a small part of the Mediterranean Sea touching the shores of Rome and Greece. This Indo-European race had a peaceful merger with Achaeans and Dorians. Soon they too formed colonies in the Isles of Aegean Sea. Among all those races who inhabited Greece, the Indo- European was the most cultured, civilized, peace-loving and rich. The majority of the famous Greek philosophers, artists, scholars, mathematicians and engineers belonged to this race.

During the 8th century BC the Greeks started writing, and soon they developed the grammar. Greek city-states were separate political and administrative entities, each state was sovereign within its own city boundary, they followed the policy of non-interference in each other's administrative and political matters. Though their political systems had no linkage, they did share common religious cults and beliefs. They all were worshippers of Zeus and the gods and goddesses of his family.

The city-states had no written law, society was widely divided in the rich and the poor. The state social codes made the rich, richer and the poor, poorer.

City-states of Athens:

The need of law was first felt by Athens. The city of Athens was established all around the mount of Acropolis, and its importance was enhanced by the fact that on the peak of Acropolis was the famous temple of Athene, the Greek goddesses of wisdom and intelligence, the city was called Athens after her.

In 590 BC Lord Solon after consultation with the Lords of city-states formulated a law in favor of the farmers, laborers and slaves, for their benefit. This mutually agreed law was inscribed on Granite Pillars, which were erected in the market places and on road-sides. This law brought relief and solace to the common people which increased their efficiency, the result of which brought affluence, prosperity and progress to all of the Athens city-states. Soon Athens and its colonies gained superiority and power, however Sparta the State founded by the Dorians always resented the Athenian power and superiority.

After Solon, the laws were annulled by the selfish Lords of Athens. The abolition of the laws brought a severe reaction, all laborers, farmers and slaves rebelled and in 560 BC the rebels chose their new leader and chief. Their second chief Cleisthenes was the first Greek who introduced the Democratic System of government. Democracy gave the general public a chance to participate in the affairs of the governance. Thus this ideology took birth.

City-States of Sparta:

The Dorians founded the city of Sparta in the south-west of Sicily; it was a city state of its own unique system. Two kings ruled with equal powers, they then had elected magistrates as the second tier of government. Farmers and slaves were not allowed participation in the administrative and governance matters. Agriculture was the sole responsibility of farmers and slaves. The rest of the population had to enlist from the age of seven in the Spartan army,

As military training was compulsory, this plan soon gave military supremacy to the Spartans over the Athenians. However the Athenian navy was par excellence and the Spartans never reached that level of excellence.

The Greeks and the Persians:

The Persians too were the descendents of Japeth s/o NoahA, but this race was more civilized and cultured. They had progressed and developed more than the other branches of Japeth's progeny. This race had divided into two clans during their stay in Bactria and was known as the Aryan Race. One branch of Aryans stayed in Persia, whereas the other entered India.

The History of the Authentic historical record states that Aryans arrived in Persia around 1500 BC World. and 1200 BC. Their glorious rise started in 560 BC when Cyrus the Great laid Page: 86 the foundation of the Achaemenide dynasty and annexed the western bordering 25

Lydia in Asia Minor to his Empire.

After Cyrus his son Cambyses and son-in law Darius the Great expanded the Empire. They conquered the north-eastern part of Egypt and Greece as far as Macedonia, making the Persian Empire the greatest at that time.

The Greek city-states were apprehensive of this great power in their neighbor-hood, and regarded it a threat not only to their development but to their very existence. Hence during the rule of Darius the Great, the suburb settlements, Ionian cities and Athens joined hands against the Persians and revolted, but were crushed by Darius army.

In 590 BC as a punishment of the rebellion Darius attacked Athens. Athens sought help from other city-states especially Sparta, but none came to its rescue and help.

However Athens succeeded in routing the powerful enemy of forty thousand soldiers, and pushed them back. This success was a miracle, brought about by the experienced planning and leadership of Miltiades the Athenian General in Command.

Farhang-e-Maa'sir. Athens success proved very expensive. Though it won without any aid from Page: 1078 other states yet the battle tapped its resources and energy; it now became a weaker state as compared to Sparta which gained supremacy in its military power. In 480 BC, Xerxes the son of Darius attacked Greece, but the same fate (as his father's) awaited him, he too was defeated, but this time the leader was Leonidas the king of Sparta.

However these battles taxed the energy and strength of both the victorious and defeated states. Realizing this a truce was declared and both parties devised a peace agreement for thirty years. This pact agreed upon non-interference in the internal matters, respect of the sovereign borders of each other, and pledged peace.

Greece and Macedonia:

This period of peace could have easily been utilized by the Greeks and Persians in recouping their strength, and re-organization of their internal and external system and policies. But the rivalry between Athens and Sparta persisted, each felt the other was a challenge and a hazard. Both formed alliances with other city-states, thus two rival groups were formed. Border skirmishes and meaningless battles sapped their powers and this weakness was soon known to all neighbors. Hence king Philip of Macedonia which was a small state in the north-east of Greece, invaded and attacked each city-state separately and soon conquered them all. The year 338 BC saw the Macedonian king as the ruler of Greece. These victories made him powerful and he planned to invade Persia too, but death prevailed as he died in 336 BC.

Alexander the Great (336 BC-323 BC) the young son (20 years old) ascended the throne after Philips. Honoring his father's last desire, he attacked Persia; the route he took was through Asia

Minor. He had inherited a strong Empire, experienced army and the royal coffers were full of riches. The young ruler took full advantage of his inheritance and proved an able heir.

Alexander invaded the powerful Persian Empire under the rule of Darius III whose western borders were extending upto Asia Minor, Syria, Phoenicia and Egypt.

After the conquest of Egypt, Alexander, stayed for a considerable period there and laid the foundation of Alexandria city. From Egypt he moved towards Tyre a city of Phoenicia. Then proceeding from east he conquered Iraq (Mesopotamia). As he crossed river Tigris and reached Arbela, here he came face to face with Darius III and his army, which fought bravely yet lost. The royalty and courtiers of Darius conspired and assassinated their king. This helped Alexander to become the unchallenged ruler of Persia in 334 BC.

After this great victory Alexander moved to the south. Passing through Susa reached Persepolis, from here he again turned towards north and invaded Ectabana, defeating the Parthions he took control of the whole region.

From Parthia he moved towards India, conquering Bactria a part of Persia, he came upon the western mountain range of India (Koh-e-Hindu-Kush).

Alexander made Bactria his cantonment in 337 BC. Leaving half of his Battalions here, he crossed Hindu-Kush and entered the Tribal Belt (in the north of present day Pakistan). Here he had to face the fierce local tribes, and it took him 11 months to subdue (the tribes). After this victory he travelled fast until he reached Attock on the banks of mighty river Indus. Making a bridge of boats he crossed it sixteen miles to the north of Attock.

Beyond the river two kings awaited his arrival and both were rivals; one waited as a friend the other as a foe.

1. Ambhi: The ruler of Taxila, had met Alexander at Babylon and had promised him allegiance, thus he welcomed. Alexander as an ally and kept his promise.

2. Raja Porus: Ruler of present day (Pakistan) areas Shahpur, Jhelum and Gujrat. Alexander sent him a message of submission, but the acceptance of such a message was below the brave king's dignity, he replied;

“If you have the courage to cross river Jhelum then do so”.

Porus believed that Jhelum flooded by the monsoon rains, will block and intersect the crossing of the enemy's army. Alexander on reaching the banks of the furious flooded Jhelum understood well what the Raja had meant; so he encamped on the banks for a whole month. Both the armies stood facing each other with the river flowing in between, Alexander was an adventurous soul, despising this long wait, he decided to cross the river on a stormy night, succeeded in his attempt, and pounced on his enemies. This attack resulted in the total defeat of Raja Porus.

Defeat of Raja Porus and his captivity:

When the proud and aggressive adversary of Alexander was brought before him as a prisoner. The triumphant victor inquired: “Tell me how should I treat you”?

Raja Porus replied with dignity: “I have the right to be treated as a royal. Treat me as a king treats a king”.

The answer and boldness of Raja Porus impressed Alexander to such an extent that he extended a hand of friendship towards Porus and returned to him the conquered land. Afterwards the other 37 provinces won by Alexander were given under the Raja's rule. Alexander had planned to move forward and invade the plains of Ganges River China too was in his Plans; but the following reasons stopped him from moving further:

1. The plains of Ganges and Yamna were ruled by the powerful Mauria Dynasty. Continuous battles of eight years had tired his army and weakened their resolve. They were not willing to fight another big battle against a powerful enemy. 2. The soldiers had left their homes and native land and were in strange far off lands. The blood- shed of the battles had worn them out. They refused to go beyond river Bias. 3. Alexander had fought and conquered a very large region. He was like a storm which destroyed rulers and their political and administrative systems, having no idea of the disaster and chaos he had caused. Soon his conquered lands were subjected to revolt and mutinee. When such disturbing news reached him, he decided to abandon his plans.

Return of Alexander:

The route Alexander had taken to India had become dangerous and treacherous hence he had to choose a new route for his return. He decided to use water ways, and sailed down River Indus reaching Hyderabad city (in the Sindh province of Pakistan). Here he divided his forces into two sections, one was sent overland, while the other with himself in command sailed through water ways. The land route passed through Bolan Pass and was ordered to reach Babylon from Baluchistan (a province of Pakistan). Leading the second section, he reached Persian Gulf via Arabian Sea, from where he too reached Babylon.

Long tedious journey made him sick and reaching Babylon he died of high fever at the young age of thirty three (33).

His untimely death proved a tragedy for Greece, as he had left no heir and successor to his throne, nor he had appointed any one to control the vast region he had conquered.

As a result those far flung parts of his Empire declared independence, whereas what remained was divided by his three powerful generals amongst themselves.

1. Ptolemy-took over Egypt. 28

2. Asian region was taken by Selecus. 3. Cassandra became the ruler of Greece Macedonia.

None of these generals proved strong enough to establish a powerful government in their controlled regions. In 146 BC, Italy attained dominance in the region, and soon Roman Empire rose to its full glory after taking control of Greece and the whole of Europe.

The Roman Empire:

Rome the capital of Italy's peninsula is one of those few cities, which became the symbol of an Empire. The other famous capital was Babylon of the Babylonian Empire. But both the Greek and Roman empires can rightly be called “home-land of immigrants”.

The Indo-European races who had moved out of Bactria into the Valley of Caucasian Mountains, soon became restless and the majority advancing in the north-west direction reached Greece, Italy and their adjoining Isles. They made this region their permanent abode and became known as the Greeks and Romans. Initially they established small towns which soon expanded into cities, states and then Empires.

Those descendents of Japeth s/o NoahA who called themselves pure Aryans (The Persians) and the heterogeneous Aryans (Greeks and Romans) rose to power and established three great Empires in history, which exceeded not only in glory but in rivalry too, for three centuries (550 BC to 146 BC), they ransacked and savaged each other.

Rome City and its History:

The History of the There are two legendry narratives about the establishment of Rome and its World. population. Pages: 113-115 (1). In 1200 BC when Barbaric tribes of Achaeans besieged Troy (a fort in Asia Minor) and capturing it set it ablaze. Aeneas one of the sons of the Trojan king, somehow escaped in a boat along with some companions and reached the mouth of river Tiber. They landed and settled down on the banks of this Italian River. Aeneas clan flourished, and he became the fore-father of the Latin Races. The descendents of his companions races became known as Etruscans, Semites and Umbrians. The Latins and Etruscans settled between the western banks of River Tiber and the western shores of Italy. Semites and Umbrians made the southern part of Italy their abode. Both these lands in the west and south of river Tiber, had fertile soil, hence the population took up farming and gardening as their occupation. At the far edge of southern Italy and on the Isle of Sicily the cities and suburbs, were inhabited by Greeks and Phoenicians. Farming and Tilling of land was impossible there due to rocky, arid and barren soil. Hence these people chose 29

fishing and trade as their profession. (2). Roman traditions tell us that the foundation of Rome was laid in 753 BC by a Latin chief named Romulus. He named the city after himself and was the first ruler of Rome.

The study of both of these historical traditions come to the same conclusion that Romulus belonged to the Latin Race, was its first ruler and was the descendent of those who arrived in Italy after the Trojan War.

In the post Romulus era till 510 BC six rulers of different tribes and races ruled Rome.

The second king Numa (716-763 BC) belonged to the Semite race. He was the first ruler who acquainted the Romans with idol-worship. He changed the names of Greek gods and goddesses, and temples were constructed, where the whole line of Greek gods and goddesses were placed for worship. Thus the Greek mythology changed into Roman mythology.

Greek king as Father-god Zeus, became Jupiter:

Zeus's wife Hera became Juno. Daughter of Zeus and the goddess of wisdom, Athene became Minerva. The messenger of god Mermes became Mercury.

Third king Tullus (673-641 BC) conquered the state of Alba Longa and brought its citizens to Rome. These people were good farmers, and helped in the cultivation of maize, olives and grapes.

Fourth king was Ancus Marcins (641-616 BC) was a progressive wise man interested in development and architecture. A bridge (the first in roman history) over Tiber River was built on his order, the city boundaries were extended on both banks of Tiber as far as the seven mountains.

Fifth ruler was king Tarquin (616-578 BC) his reign lasted 32 years. Much development and progress is seen during his period. The most famous was the Drainage system, which benefitted the farmers as their fields and harvest was saved from the flow of excessive water.

The temple of Jupiter (the king god) was built on Capitaline Hill by him. In the foot hill world's first Cucus, and Race Course Maximus was constructed.

Sixth king was Servius Tullins (578-534 BC) a peace loving ruler. In his era a fort-wall's construction started, around the seven cities hills.

This peace-loving person was assassinated by his own son-in-law. The daughter of Tullins aided her husband in the murder, who ascended the throne.

Tarquin II was the seventh and last Roman king. The Roman nobility and countless people rebelled against him in 510 BC. He along with his family was banished from Rome.

The Roman Republic:

After tasting the bitter experience of monarchy, the royalty (aristocracy) of Rome decided to try a new political system by forming a republic (509 BC). This system worked successfully till 31 BC, although the first century saw the Romans busy in fighting feuds with other tribes within their country.

The best achievement of this period was the formation of a Code of Law by the Romans with the help of the Greeks. The law was inscribed on 12 copper plates, which were erected in the centre of Rome (city). These twelve plates became the base of Roman law in all times, as they became a part of the education syllabus for the children, who were expected to learn them by heart. This order of the government kept the Code of Law alive.

Between 390 BC and 367 BC Rome was invaded by Gauls, a sub-tribe of the Celts. The attack was sudden by a huge force, but the Roman general Camillus defeated them and forced the Gauls to retreat.

This success encouraged the Romans to expand their boundaries on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and in the north of Rome.

Rome and Carthage:

The New Lexicon Carthage was Phoenician colony in northern Africa and a flourishing trade Webster's Dictionary market. Pages:151 & 755 Post 814 BC, Spain, Sicily and Sardina had expanded their control and borders as far as the Mediterranean shores. When the Romans started looking beyond their Italian borders, this region was under Carthage rulers.

Phoenicia of which Carthage was a colony, itself was a very small state, its size was merely 100 miles, and was situated in the western shores of Mediterranean Sea in the south of Lebanon mountains. It was inhabited in 3000 BC. The capital of Phoenicia was Byblos, and famous trading posts were Sidon and Tyre. 1000 BC to 800 BC was the era of its prosperity and grandeur.

6th century BC saw it as a part of the Persian Empire. In 3 BC Rome and Carthage became rivals when Rome started intercepting Carthagian merchant ships. This interference in their trade resulted in the famous Punic wars between Rome and Carthage. These were fought for 62 years. The war derived its name from “Punicns” the language spoken in Carthage as it had been a colony of Phoenicia.

The History of the The first Punic war was initiated by Rome and was fought from 264 BC to 241 World. BC. It was a test of Naval forces as it was fought in the waters of the Page:141-145 Mediterranean Sea. The Romans won and the Carthageons lost Sicily and Sardina to Rome.

The defeated Carthage waited for twenty one years to strike back. Re-cooping its energies, General Hannibal the brave Carthagian warrior, attacked Rome with a large army, including forty elephants. He took the route through Spain to north of France, and then through south of France, he crossed Alps and reached Italy. The difficult mountainous path resulted in the death of his 40 elephants.

Roman army challenged the invaders, but had to retreat, suffering a great defeat and loss of thousands of soldiers. The battle-field was strewn with the dead. This was the second Punic war of 218 BC.

After this defeat Romans made great preparations to avenge it, and in 216 BC declared war, but their fate did not change. Hannibal was the victor and eight thousand Roman soldiers lost their lives in this third Punic War.

Unfortunately, this second victory too, did not open the gates of Rome for Hannibal.

The coming years proved distressing and unfortunate for Hannibal, as his military funding was with held by the government of Carthage. The brother of Hannibal succeeded in raising a Battalion for his aid, but as he led them through Spain, the Romans intercepted and killed him in 207 BC. At the same time Hannibal was informed about Romans plans of invading Carthage, so he had to return in 202BC without enjoying the fruit of his victory, thus miraculously the Romans were saved from an impending final defeat..

In Carthage (northern Africa) Hannibal faced many local adversaries and skirmishes, but they left him undaunted. Gathering his fatigued army, he decided to have a final decisive fight with the Roman General P. Comelius Scipio.

The fight continued day long in the intense raging heat of Africa. The Roman were not used to such heat and were about to be defeated when nature came to their aid, and the sun set. The cooler temperature helped them in regaining their strength. They hit back fiercely and the Carthagain army was routed and took flight, making Romans the victors. Though the Romans returned home, but Carthage was fined and paid penalty for many years. Moreover they had to handover Spain, parts of Sicily and France to Romans. This made Romans the masters of all trading lands and Sea routes on the western side of the Mediterranean Sea.

The victorious General Scipio was awarded a warm welcome by his country-men when he entered Rome and the title of Africanus (victor of Africa) was awarded to him.

Rome and Parthia:

While Rome was at war with Carthage, those who had divided the Alexandrian Empire amongst themselves in Greece, Persia and Asia Minor had developed rivalries and were engaged in combating.

This chaos and unrest provided Rome with a golden chance to look towards the expansion of its borders. In 146 BC it conquered the remaining part of France and Britain. Later Greece too was annexed by the Roman Empire. Thus the Romans became the un-challenged masters on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

In 102 BC General Marius defeated the German Hordes, and brought Germany in the Roman fold.

Rome now faced the problematic question of Parthia, which was a small state in the north of Persia, but had gained power, after the downfall of Persia (by Alexander). Parthian king Arascide then captured Persia.

The period of 171-87 BC, with Mithradates I and II, the whole region from Bactria to Syria and from Caspian Sea to Indian Ocean had been part of Parthia.

The Romans regarded this rising Asian power as a danger to their supremacy. When General Shula was sent as governor of Roman Province of Cilicia in Asia Minor, the Parthians offered peace under certain conditions, but the Romans rejected this offer. Thus ensued a period of tussle between the two powers which lasted for nearly seventy years. None of the rivals won or lost, then in 20 BC Emperor Augustus brokered peace with Parthia.

Peace came to the region, yet the seeds of downfall were planted in the Roman Republic. The second factor was internal as the political forces became interested in Capitalism, and thus political parties were controlled by Capitalists.

Julius Caesar and the Roman Empire:

Historians often state Roman history can conveniently be divided into two periods, one prior to Julius Caesar and the other post Julius Caesar.

The political system established in 509 BC in the Roman Republic ended prior to the birth of Christ. It proved a failure which changed the political scenario to such an extent that the whole Republic faced the worst unrest, anarchy, and disorder.

For the first time in Roman history a victorious popular General Marius, conqueror of Germany, was banished by the Roman Senate. This order brought a revolt from the Romans. Sullu the governor of Cilicia was summoned to quell the revolt. His absence brought another revolt as the Parthian king (sensing the situation in Rome) declared war against Rome. Roman General Pompey was sent, with a large army to face Parthia. He succeeded in defeating Mithradates II and annexed four provinces.

The large size of the Roman Empire now faced another threat as the far flung provinces went out of control. Both the Roman army and Senate failed in maintaining authority.

Rome was in dire need of a new leadership, the situation demanded proficiency and the extra- ordinary will, wisdom and power to rule such a vast Empire. 33

This due need was fulfilled and Rome was lucky enough to have Julius Caesar as the chairman of the Senate. William Shakespeare very aptly says about Julius Caesar in his play of the same title “The Noblest man that ever lives in the tide of times”.

Julius Caesar was born in 100 BC in a soldier's family. He was a born warrior and possessed a noble, generous Soul. He excelled in political acumen, was an able administrator, and capable of good governance. His father was a soldier and politician, was a member of the Senate, and was nephew of the great General Marius. All these qualities and his family background made him the best candidate to rule such a vast Empire.

Julius had fought many battles under the command of General Pompey the conqueror of Parthia. In 70 BC, at the age of 30, he had acquired valuable military experience.

In 60 BC he was appointed Consul General. For nine years he fought the barbaric tribes of Gaul (France) and in the north of British Isles. Thus he freed this region from danger of invasions. He found time to write down his memories of these wars and the people he fought with. “The Gallic War” was in eight volumes, and is one of the famous books on ancient history.

In 49 BC when he was returning to Rome and had reached River Rubicon the river flowing between Italy and Gaul, he received a message from the Senate; reach alone to Rome, and to leave his army at the camp. This strange message made him suspicious and he understood that some sort of conspiracy had been hatched against him. He defied the order and entered Rome as a victor along with his army. The conspiring members of the Senate fled to Greece, the remaining Senators welcomed him, and announced him “Life Time Dictator” of the Empire.

Those who had conspired against him decided not to leave him in peace, and opened new war fronts for him in Greece, Egypt and Northern Africa. He decided to command the army himself to curb these insurgencies. He defeated all his opponents and came back to Rome as the most powerful master of a vast Empire spread from the British Isles to Parthia, from Gibraltar to Palestine.

Now the time had come to bring about peace and order in his Empire and to strengthen the administrative machinery, to make laws, to bring about agricultural reforms, and to protect the naval and land trade routes.

He initiated all these measures and the Romans had just started enjoying the peace and progress when again a conspiracy was hatched by envious Senators against him (and we can say against Rome itself). In March 44 BC he was assassinated in the Senate hall, by the conspirators. Rome's march towards disaster and turmoil started again, all this was a great misfortune for the Empire.

Brief History of Roman Caesars:

Julius Caesar had no son, but had adopted his nephew Octarions as a son. He was a capable youth and fulfilled all expectations of his mentor. He proved a worthy heir, and was able to quell the 34 internal strafes and civil war, but this took him seven years. His opponents were silenced, the flames of civil war were extinguished, law and order restored, he ordered to lock the doors of war god Janns temple.

Respecting his judgments and actions, the Romans gave him the title of “Augustus”, so in history he is known as “Caesar Augustus”. This title of Caesar was adopted by all those who succeeded him on the Roman throne. In Arabic and Persian the word became “Qaiser”.

With him a new dynasty of rulers was established, the “Roman Republic” became Roman Empire and the rulers Emperors.

In 14 AD, Augustus died at the age of 76, and thus his rule spread from the last years of BC till the beginning of AD.

It was during his rule that two miraculous births of prophets occurred, i.e, of Jesus Christ and John the Baptist in the cities of Palestine Nazareth and Jerusalem.

Caesar Tiberius Claudius (14-37 AD):

The most important event during this rule was Crucification of Jesus Christ in 33 AD. His governor, Judas Pontius Pilate, pronounced death penalty for the prophet and according to the Bible, Jews carried out the order of Crucification.

Whereas the Quran says: “God lifted the prophet towards heavens”.

Caesar Nero (37-68 AD):

Agrippina the fourth wife of Tiberius Claudius had a son Nero from her previous husband. Nero was an artist at heart; he loved music, played the flute. He is famous for his singing and dancing festivals. After Claudius he ascended the throne as Caesar Nero. In 64 AD the whole city of Rome caught fire (the source of this fire is still an un-solved mystery of history). The fire blazed and raged, burning down the entire city. At the time of the fire Nero was entailed in his hobby playing the flute. When he had played to his heart's desire then only he did order an inquiry in the burning of the city.

The History of the The burning of Rome coincides with St. Paul and St. Peter (the followers of World. Jesus Christ) as they were travelling in Coastal cities of the Mediterranean Page:187-188 preaching Christianity. They were quite successful and a majority of Romans converted to Christianity.

From the ashes of Rome arose opposition of the Emperor, when it was about to get out of control, the Emperor who refused to accept the administrative negligence of his government, looked around for escape goats. Soon his satanic brain blamed the new religion of Christianity and its preachers. 35

He argued that the new teachings had infuriated the Roman gods and they had set the city on fire in their annoyance. Hence the Christians were the culprits to be punished. The order of their killing and imprisonment was issued. As a result thousands were killed; the others were arrested and thrown before the hungry lions to be devoured. Both St. Paul and St. Peter were arrested, humiliated and executed. However his act itself haunted him and he committed suicide in 68 AD.

Caesar Vespasian (69-79 AD):

Nero during his rule had brutally eliminated all expected claimants to the throne. This created a crisis after his sudden death. His callous act brought about a void at the helm of the state affairs. Law and order situation started deteriorating. But again the good fortune of Romans came up with timely help, as the Roman army declared their commander General Flavius Vespasian as their Emperor who became the new Caesar, saving the Roma nation.

Taking advantage of the crises of governance at the centre, the Palestinian Jews revolted. But the General soon crushed the Jewish insurgency, and many thousands of Jews lost their lives.

As a result: 1. More than one hundred thousand Jews were killed. 2. Fifty thousands were taken prisoners. 3. Jerusalem was turned into ruins. 4. Bait-ul-Maqdas (the holy place of worship) was completely destroyed.

All this had been prophesied by Jesus Christ, he had said:

“No built wall of stones will remain here. The Temple of Solomon would never be restored and Jerusalem will be ravaged and plundered”.

At a later time Caesar Hadrian (117-138 AD) built a city on the ruins of Jerusalem and named it Aelia (in 135 AD). The irony however was that Jews were prohibited from entering the city.

. Caesar Titus (79-81 AD):

Titus the son of Vespasian ascended the throne, but lived only to rule for a short span of two years.

Caesar Domitian (81-96 AD):

The brother of Titus succeeded him and ruled till 96 AD, when he was assassinated. His assassination again disturbed the peace of the Empire and the tussle for supremacy ensued in the Senate. Throne remained vacant for two years, a period of turmoil and unrest.

Then Trajan the commander of the Roman Army took control. 36

Caesar Trajan (98-117 AD):

The victorious General Trajan had led an expedition against the savage tribes living in the north of River Danube, subdued them after seven years fighting and liberated Dacia. Then he attacked Parthia and defeated Parthia king after two years of fighting (114-116 AD). He annexed the regions as far as Ctesiphon to the Roman Empire.

His victories had made him powerful and so he took the Roman throne in 98 AD.

Trajan's reign of 19 years brought peace, solidarity and stability in the Empire. Law and order improved and miscreants were punished. He put an end to heinous crimes. Atrocities in society were controlled, and harassment, persecution and tormenting torturous punishments were abolished.

During this period Christianity spread in the Empire, but it was prohibited to accept the monotheist faith publically and legally.

The New Lexicon The letters written by Pliny (62-114 AD) Trajan's chief administrator and Webster's Dictionary educationist, and the Emperors reply of these letters form a part of Roman Page: 772 literature, and occupy an important place in Roman history.

Amongst them one is quoted here in brief: The History of the “Leave alone the Christians, but if one of them is brought before you (who World. Page: 191 have committed the crime of conversion to Christianity) then ask him to bow and pay homage to your god, if he does so forgive him if not, then punish him”.

This order of Trajan prevailed for two centuries till the time when Caesar Constantine (306-337 AD) converted to Christianity and made it the state Religion.

Bible Word. Trajan was succeeded by Hadrian, the same who founded the city of Aelia on Page: 275 the ruins of Jerusalem. He named it after his Aelian clan and prohibited the Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 entrance of Jews in the city. Page: 602

Companions of the Cave and the Roman Empire:

The brief history of Roman Empire as detailed above will help in understanding the miraculous incident about the Companions of The Cave. This incident occurred during the reign of Roman Kings and is spread over a period of about three centuries of their Empire.

The Roman history refer to this incident as that of “Seven Sleepers” whereas the Quran calls those sleepers as “The Companions of the Cave”. This incident was known to the learned Arab Christians of Nazareth and that is why they put a question to prophet MohammadS so as to judge his authenticity. They also put up two additional questions. These questions were put to prophet MohammadS through the Arab infidels who had no clue about these incidents:

1. Who were the Companions of the Cave and what is their story? 2. Who was Zulqarnain? 3. What happened between Moses and Khidr?

As the prophet heard these questions Angel GabrielA descended with the inspiration detailing the answers. A complete chapter of the Quran descended on this occasion, which contained answers to all three questions (Chapter-18, Companions of the Cave ).

The Quranic answer to the first question only is detailed below: For answers to the second and third questions please refer to History of Prophets, Vol-1.

Following is a brief of what Quran says about the “Companions of the Cave”:

Al-Quran They were among the Signs of God. Those youths (frightened by the Surah Al-Kahf-18 persecution of the Roman King), hid themselves in a cave and prayed for the Verses: 9-25 mercy of God. Then God grew a veil over their ears for a number of years (so that they could hear no more). Then God roused them to test people. (continuing about the back ground, Quran says) those youths were true believers, God guided them and gave strength to their hearts. (They stood-up against king's order) refused to bow to the false gods. Their God then guided them (away from the frightful situation) to the safety of the cave. God's mercy made the sunlight fall on the right side of their bodies as well the as the left side as the sun rose and declined, while they lay in the open space in the midst of the cave. They were not awake but God turned them on their right and on their left sides. And their dog lay stretching forth his two forelegs on the threshold. No one could bear this frightful sight without getting over-awed by terror. When they were in such a state, God raised them up. They started questioning how long they had stayed there. They replied themselves, perhaps a day or less. Then they sent one of them to town with their money, to bring food. But cautioned him not to inform anyone because then the people will force them to bow down to their false gods, or stone them to death. Thus God made their case known to people (through the hundreds years old currency they carried), so that people may realize that the Day of Judgment is bound to come. (As their remembrance) people decided to make a place of worship over them. (People guessed about their number). Some say they were three, the dog being the fourth. Others say they were five, the dog being the sixth. Yet others say they were seven, the dog being the eighth. Prophet MohammadS was advised not to get involved in controversies but just to say that his Lord knows best their numbers. (Prophet MohammadS advised to) say that God knows best how long they stayed in the cave, it was three hundred and nine years.

Maulana Maududi commented on this subject as follows:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 “Those who had questioned well-knew the details of the incident, the Quranic Page: 12-13 precise elaboration silenced them. The most ancient testimony of this occurrence is found in the sermons of Christian priests written in the Syriac language”.

This priest James Sarojy was born in 452 AD, few years after the awakening and appearance of the “Companions of the Cave” and then their disappearance or death. He compiled his sermons (in a

38 book form) in 474 AD. In this book the whole episode is written under the title of “Seven Sleepers” . Ibne Jareer Tabari refered to the same sermons and episode for the first time in his Tafseer.

James Sarojy states that the “Seven Sleepers” awoke from their prolong sleep during the rule of Theodosius. This was the era when Christianity had spread throughout Roman Empire and had become state religion.

About the period of their sleep, Quran mentions 300 years and 9 days, whereas Christian sources speak about 300 years. This difference appears to be due to the Solar calendar used by Christian sources and Lunar calendar used by Quran..

According to the Roman Christian Solar Calendar they slept for 300 years, according to the Arabian Lunar Colander it comes to 309 years.

The City of Ephesus:

The New Lexicon The city where this incident took place was Ephesus. This city was a natural Webster's Dictionary harbor on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea in the north-west of present day Page: 37 Turkey (in Asia Minor). The ruins of Ephesus have been discovered 25 and 30 miles from Izmir (a city in Turkey).

This city was founded by Ionians in 11 BC and was famous for its idol-worshippers. Here Artemis a Greek goddesses was worshipped and her magnificent grand temple was a wonder. When the Romans conquered the city, they brought their gods and goddesses too, Artemis became the Roman goddess Diano.

Ephesus held an important place among the Roman cities under Emperor Caesar Hadrian. It had a mountain terrain, full of vast caves. One of these vast caves was chosen by the companions to hide. Leaving their matters in the hands of their God they hid there, unaware of their future. The details of Holy Quran and narration of priest James Sarojy provide us the following story.

The first thing to note is that the question was asked by the non-believers of Mecca on the advice and suggestion of Christians of Nazareth origin. Hence the reply received through Divine Revelation addresses both the non-believers and Christians. The Quran reply posed the question: “Do you think the Divine signs of the Companion of the Caves are something strange and exceptional”.

It means what you have heard about the companions is only one sign of Allah, for if only you could think and ponder you would find many other such exceptional signs scattered all around you.

Secondly, the companions were monotheists of Ephesus city (Christians) and perhaps were some officials. They had kept their faith and beliefs hidden. But when this secret came out, the governor, under the orders of the Emperor summoned them and ordered them: “Either to bow before the Roman gods, or prepare for punishment”.

Quran says: Al-Quran “We gave strength to their hearts. Behold, they stood up and said: Surah Kahf-18 'Our Lord is the Lord of the heaven and the earth. Never shall we call upon any Verses: 14-16 god other than Him. If we did, we should indeed have committed a great sin. These people who worship gods other than Him, why don't they bring forward a clear authority for what they do. Can there be a greater wrong than inventing a falsehood against God.' When they turned away from the false gods, the Merciful God showered his mercies on them and took care of their comfort and ease”.

On their way they met a shepherd who was also a Christian, he too came along after hearing their story. The dog of the shepherd followed his master. Reaching the cave, a sense of relief came as their anguish ended. Peace and rest brought a deep sleep to them. A sleep which God blessed on them with their eyes open, but with their ears blocked so that no sound could now reach them. The dog sat at guard on the mouth of the cave. He too slept with open eyes and closed ears.

The whole scene was so scary that even if someone did pass by and saw them in this position, would have fled with terror. In this manner they were protected from humans and wandering animals.

Al-Quran The location of the cave and the direction of its mouth were such that, the sun Surah Kahf-18 rays did not fall directly on the bodies, thus they were saved from excessive- Verses: 17-18 & 25 heat. “Powers of their Lord saved them from physical decay, as during their sleep they (unconsciously) changed their postures”.

According to the Roman (solar) Calendar they slept for 300 years, and according to the Arabic (Lunar) Calendar 309 years, they lacked the powers of hearing and seeing (though their eyes were open). When the governor learnt that they had escaped, he sent his soldiers in search of them; both on horses and on foot, but did not succeeded reaching the cave. This was a blessing from God, and the Romans remembered this incident for a long time. The Roman Empire went through many rise and fall cycles during these three centuries, but the Christian preachers carried on their mission and were not impaired by political up-heavals. As a result of their diligent efforts, Christianity spread all over Roman Empire. After Hadrian, Titus Antonius became the ruler (138-161 AD). His era was the first longest period of 23 years of peace and harmony. The emperor faced no revolt, nor did he invade or had to fight battles. He got a lengthy wall constructed in Scotland, right from Forth to Clyde, and it still exists. On his death there was mourning throughout the Empire.

Caesar Marcus Aurelius:

Caesar Marcus Aurelius is known as a philosopher Emperor in Roman history. His philosophical and scholarly quotes and sayings gained eternal fame in Roman literature. Though a simple and 40 austere person in his personal life, he was a tough and cruel enemy of Christians. Whenever a follower of Christ came within his clutches he gave him severe punishments. The whole period of his reign was spent fighting the barbaric German tribes settled on the banks of Danube River.

Caesar Commodus:

The heir to Marcus, his son Commodus though unworthy of such responsibilities of a ruler succeeded his father. He was a selfish, ruthless, tyrant, whose dumb senseless use of power made him the worst (despot) Emperor of Rome. Rebellion, Revolt, Conspiracies, unrest were his gifts to the nation, which bred hatred amongst all those who surrounded him, people were so fed up that his own body guards assassinated him.

His assassination too failed in restoring law and order, peace progress and the glory of the Romans. The seeds of disharmony planted in his era, (grew up into strong trees which) grew for the next 90 years. Not a single ruler of the period is worth mentioning. Chaos, anarchy and lawlessness, prevailed, setting in motion invasions of the barbaric neighbors. Then came the natural disasters in 212 AD famine, drought and plague ravaged the Empire.

Caesar Diocletian (284-305 AD):

Year 284 AD brought a ruler who succeeded in pulling back the nation from the brink of destruction. Caesar Diocletian was an experienced wise person. He brought back normalcy and order in the chaotic society. Then he looked towards the administrative side and for better control divided the vast Empire into two divisions or sectors. 1. The Western Sector: It included Italy, Gual (present day France, Switzerland, Belgium and Holland), Spain and Northern Africa. This section was given under the control of his friend Maxmian. 2. The Eastern Sector: It included Egypt, Anatolia, Greece, Asia Minor, Palestine and Phoenicia; he kept under his direct control. The vast Empire was thus under two administrative rulers; this helped in bringing peace and order. This status however ended after 20 years, and the Empire again went back to turmoil which continued for another 20 years.

Caesar Constantine the Great (324-337 AD):

It took two centuries to bring on the Roman throne an Emperor of the same caliber as Trajan and Vespasian. To some extent he was even superior to those too. He is called Constantine the Great as he united the two sectors again under his direct control. Then he laid the foundations of a new city 41 on the ruins of Byzantine on the western shores of the Mediterranean Sea. He named it Constantinople which became Qustuntanya in Persian and Arabic; and when it came in the hands of the Turks it became Istambol.

In 330 AD this new city became his Capital, and helped him in subduing and controlling the invasions of the savage tribes of the north.

As he had accepted Christianity as his faith in 312 AD, he declared it as the state religion. This new status brought a swift expansion of the faith in all corners of the Roman Empire.

Constantine had to fight many claimants of the throne, before his ascension; hence he was still surrounded by enemies and conspiracies. His declaration of Christianity as state religion brought support from this new force, making it safe and secure.

His greatest achievement was the holding of the Council of Nicaea. This council strengthened The Catholic Roman Church, and brought stability and security to his reign.

His death in 337 AD again proved critical for the Empire. His heirs divided the Empire again into the Eastern and Western Sections with a difference that now they faced each other as rival (states) or (foes). Their rivalries soon made the Empire vulnerable. The force of Christianity on which Constantine had relied during his rule, was divided into various sects, who faced each other with daggers drawn, while Roman streets saw much blood-shed due to religious enmity. These were the two disasters which struck the Roman Empire.

Spirit of Islam. A time came when the wickedness of the clergy exceeded all limits. The Syed Ameer Ali impiety, lust, arrogance, haughtiness, pride, vanity, affluence, craving for Page: 45 luxuries became a story of all corrupt churches. Soon the tales of these deteriorating conditions of the churches spread amongst the masses. As a result Rome, Constantinople and Alexandria witnessed blood-shed in their streets. However amongst the religious leaders, holy men and clergy, there still existed a group, who silently preached what Christ had taught, and were not part of the main system of the Church and clergy.

The third catastrophe which appeared on the scene, were the invasions on various parts of the Empire. The savage tribes struck at Spain, Gual and northern Africa, Jutes and Saxons raided Britain and Huns and Mongols made preparations for an invasion of Eastern Europe.

In 410 AD the Gothic king Alaric (410-570 AD) captured Rome and burnt down the city. This was the worst arson Rome had faced. The previous fires were the ones set by the Guals in 390 BC and the one which broke out suddenly in 64 AD.

The aftermath of this disaster was the downfall of the Roman Empire's western sector. The circumstances and plight of the nation was such that it moved downhill fast and no one appeared to be able to save it from its downfall. During this period of demolition the German chief Odoscae attacked Rome and banishing the last Caesar Augustus captured the western sector of Rome.

The bifurcation of the Empire was the greatest tragedy of Roman history. The outcome of this blow was that Western Europe never became a united nation again, the coming centuries saw it 42 segregating into various nations and countries. Calamity did not end here, the next two centuries became “The Dark Ages” of European history.

People themselves conspired against Europe, barbaric tribes constantly were at war with each other, and unrest, discontent, and discord ruled the society. The plight of the people worsened by drought and famine, while plague epidemic pounced upon them with a vengeance, destroying completely the strata of social order. The grand Roma civilization was buried under the debris of these disasters. The entire social, economical, educational, professional and industrial mechanism collapsed. All international ties were severed, and relations came to an end.

The only progressing factor in this stale-mated society was Christianity. It was kept vibrant and alive by the Pope and Roman Catholic Church. It proved to be the only uniting force amongst the barbaric tribes of the invaders.

During these Dark Ages, Christian missionaries, scholars, hermits and priests travelled throughout Europe and preached the faith. Their effort soon bore fruit and the savage tribes converted to Christianity. This also brought an end to their idol worship. But a new kind of worship took birth as they started worshipping Mother Mary and Jesus Christ.

At the end of the fifth and sixth century, new nations and countries emerged on the geographical map of Europe. Some of these new countries were France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Italy, Austria and Czechoslovakia.

The Byzantine Empire:

The Eastern Sector of the Roman Empire which comprised of the present day countries of Greece, Anatolia, Egypt, Alexandria, Asia Minor, Palestine and the conquered part of Persian Empire took up the name of “The Byzantine Empire”. This name had a historical background as the city of Constantinople, was built on the ruins of Ionian a Byzantinian city, now the whole Empire was named after it.

This sector of the Roman Empire was at a great distance from the barbaric tribe's range of invasion. Moreover the very built and design of the Capital of Constantinople was such that the northern and eastern sides were completely walled turning the city into a strong fort. The wall around the fort made it impregnable, thus assisting the progress of the city. It was no doubt free from external dangers but internally the fight and struggle for the throne amongst the successors of Constantine, proved fatal for seventy years when turmoil prevailed.

Theodosius II (408-450 AD):

When Theodosius II became the Emperor he brought peace in the troubled sector. He was a learned capable person and the commander of the Army. He felt the urgency to repeat the previous

43 laws and to bring about a new code of laws, according to which all natives and foreigners settled in the Empire were given full citizenship rights. All were now equally treated by the country's laws.

Being a scholar himself he established the first university of Constantinople, where Philosophy and Science faculties were opened. The medium of teaching was Greek and Latin.

Peace accords and friendly pacts were made with the Barbaric tribes, Christianity flourished. There were three different schools of thought, clashing with each other in hostility. Religious debates knew no end, and none had the patience and tolerance to hear the arguments of the other school of thought.

The bone of contention or the discord was on such complicated questions as:

1. Life. 2. Death. 3. Life after death.

The first were those Jews who belonged to the Saddgy sect, and were the old citizens of Ephesus; they totally disbelieved in life after death. Their argument was “How can the decayed bones of innumerable humans, dead in centuries could be brought back to life? Can God give life to them”? The second group was of those Christians who were puzzled with suspicions.

Third were those Christians who believed both in “Day of Judgment” and “life after Death”, they were firm believers in the teachings of their prophet.

Theodosius II called a council at Ephesus in 431 AD to settle the differences of these sects. Long debates and hours of discussion and arguments failed to bring consensus as none of the participants were ready to give up their opinions. Their rigid stance persisted.

This was the time when the miracle happened as a solid proof of God's promise of life after death. Certain narratives had reached the people of Ephesus from their ancestors about the Seven Sleepers; which the staunch believers of Christ had no doubt about what James Sarojy had said in his sermons:

Tafseer Namoona-12 After awakening, the hunger and need for food made them send one of their Page: 351 companions with some coins to buy food from the market.

The world outside of the cave, was strange and different one for him. The whole surrounding was unfamiliar. During the three centuries the city was totally changed. Houses, streets, people, their appearances and apparel all bewildered him. On the other hand the citizens were surprised to see a youth of strange guise and appearance amongst them. Their curiosity was fully aroused when he spoke an incomprehensible language. When they spoke, he got puzzled. However he succeeded in procuring some food for his companions. The coins with which he paid amazed the shop-keeper; they however conversed in language of signs. Some of the people were taken by him to the Cave. As they reached the cave, fright overcame their curiosity, and they were reluctant to enter the unknown premises. Standing outside they tried to guess the number of his companions.

Sensing their reluctance, the youth himself entered the cave and informed his companions what he had seen and felt. Those inside the cave, hearing the commotion had believed that Caesar had 44 sent his soldiers to arrest them. They were relieved when their companion told them the truth. Happily they thanked their Lord.

Soon the news spread, people came in droves to see the miracle themselves. News travel fast, so it reached the administrator of the city and perhaps reached the Caesar too. Many saw and soon it was proved beyond doubt that they were the same seven sleepers, the same true Christians who had fled in fear of the Caesar 300 years ago. God made them see this miracle of resurrection with their own eyes, so that they realize that “Resurrection” was easy for God and that His Promise would certainly be fulfilled.

When the companions of the cave realized that they had slept for an unknown period, during which the whole world had changed. Their families, relatives, friends all had perished long ago. They deemed their existence on earth useless, so they prayed to their Lord for death, salvation and His Blessings. Their Lord heard, and granted them their wish. When their deaths were confirmed, again a controversy arose. Some wanted to bury them while others wanted to seal the mouth of the cave, without burial.

This great miracle had solved the riddle of life and death, and a solid proof of life after death was present in front of their eyes. The companions of the cave had slept for centuries without food and drink, and then they awoke without any outside human aid. It was just as if they arose from the graves after death. But there was something even beyond this explanation. The true believers of Christ got the message; God had conveyed through the miracle, the rejection of the advice of sealing the cave's mouth to forget the whole episode. God wished to keep the miracle alive, and so made the true Christians construct a worship place, where people could worship God, remembering the “Seven Sleepers” and their faith in their Lord.

History does not speak about the grant of final wish of the Sleepers, but Quran gives a hint:

1. After the certainty of their death, the companions of the cave were buried. 2. A tablet was affixed at the cave's mouth, describing the whole incident and their names were inscribed on it. This epitaph existed till 7th century AD. The Quran called them “The Companions of the Cave and of The Inscription”. The addition of the word “Inscription” is worth pondering as it throws a hint on the status of the sleepers.

The wordings of the Quranic verse are: “Why don't you realize that the “Companions of the cave and of the Inscription” were wonders among our signs”? ( )

In Arabic “Kahf” means “The Cave” and “Raqeem” is “epitaph”.

3. By the revelation of this incident to the Holy Prophet MohammadS, God has bestowed eternity on these virtuous faithfuls.

At this juncture I would like to answer a question put by a Christian student. He inquired: “Why do Muslims prostrate and pray on the grave of prophet MohammadS? Why do they make graves in their mosques, and build mosques near grave yards”?

This question arose from the fact that, the tomb of Prophet MohammadS is in the southern part of Masjid-e-Nabavi and the Ka’ba and Mecca both are also in the south of this mosque. The tomb of the prophet has two other graves of Abu BakrR and Umar FarooqR (the first two Caliphs). The place of worship therefore falls on all sides in the east, west and north of the tomb. All muslins pray facing the south i.e, the Kabaa’ and not the tomb as presumed.

Hence the answer to this query is that Muslims always pray facing the House of the Lord- Kabaa’, in all parts of the world, and they only bow in reverence to the Kabaa’ not the tomb; just as all Jews pray facing Bait-ul-Maqdas.

If the intention had been to bow before the prophet's grave, then they would have prayed all around the tomb facing it.

As regards construction of mosques in graveyards, the answer is that right from the Shariah of AbrahamA to MohammadS such construction of mosques was not prohibited.

The first example is the presence of IshmaelA's grave on the courtyard wall of the Kabaa’. When rain falls on the roof of the Kabaa’, the conduit drains it out in IshmaelA's grave. Alongside this grave is that of Hagar the wife of AbrahamA. Hajj and Umras circumbulating (ritual) is not completed unless prayer is offered at this spot. It should be noted that although prayer is offered near the graves facing Kabaa’, but it is offered to Allah.

Again if making mosques (worshipping places) near graves had not been allowed in the Shariah of Christ or to be more precise Shariah of MosesA, then Christians would not have debated the construction of a mosque near the graves of the companions of the Cave.

According to theologists the graves and tombs of prophets, apostles, Imams, saints, and family and companions of prophet MohammadS all are blessed spots. These locations are such that chances of prayers getting fulfilled and penitence accepted get increased through the affinity of these blessed souls.

Thus building worship places near such locations has pious aspects, where the faithful pray five times a day and bow before their God; and remember those virtuous persons and respect and honor them.

This point should also be clear now that the rationality behind building mosques attached to the tombs of prophet MohammadS's family, by the Shia sect, is to remember these personalities who were the beacons of light, and to offer salutation to them, after praying to God Almighty.

Caesar Justinian (527-565 AD):

Theodosius died in 450 AD, the Roman Empire was ruled by weak rulers for a period of seventy years. In 527 AD, Caesar Justinian ascended the throne, who shunned the weaknesses of his predecessors. He was a strong nationalist and a great law maker. His nationalism and dedication to law outlived him for centuries in the Byzantine Empire.

He brought about new reforms, a new code of law. The special law propounded by him in 530 AD, the Corpus Jueis Civilis remained in force till the downfall of Constantinople (1453 AD) and formed the foundation of all laws in the Byzantine Empire.

The second achievement of Justinian was the reconstruction of St. Sophia Church.

The New Lexicon Justinian was fortunate to have two very competent commanders in his army, Webster's Dictionary General Noses and General Belisarius, these powerful Generals brought victory Page: 532 from each front, whether it was the Persian army on the borders (in 529 AD), the vandals of northern Africa (533 AD) or the Ostrogoths of Italy (552-555 AD). All were routed and the region's of their rule were annexed to The Byzantine Empire.

While Justinian was in power, Persia also got a powerful and capable ruler. Nousherwan Adil (512-534 AD) became the Persian Emperor. For thirty four years these two great rulers were contemporaries and allies. Thus Caesar and Khusrau were the powers of the era.

Despite such fame and progressive reforms by Justinian, his reign saw a sharp decline on the moral and ethical front of the society; it is regarded as the worst era in this respect. One of the main reasons was his fiery temperament. The other cause were the riots, and insurgency which engulfed his capital, making it the centre of conspiracies and intrigues.

The moral corruption and flirtation of his wife Theodora.

Spirit of Islam. About this matter Justice Ameer Ali states that Theodora sharing equally the Syed Ameer Ali powers and authority of the Caesar was a harlot by nature. She spent her time Page: 48-49 as a prostitute; her name was a maxim and dictum amongst the licentious

debauchees and vagabonds of the capital city. Her vexing style, tyrant oppressive nature along with immodesty and immorality brought a commotion in the Empire, She defied all religions and ethical social values which were trampled under her feet. Her acts were distressing and deplorable, yet her injustice knew no bounds, much blood was shed due to her. She was assisted by the priests in her tyrannical quests. Worship places soon turned into alters of sacrifice where human blood was shed.

Such was the situation when Justinian died and The Empire faced disaster.

Caesar Maurice (582-602 AD):

Seventeen years of chaos and tumult ruled the Empire then Caesar Maurice became the Emperor. His simplicity and saintly nature was a gift for the Romans, who heaved a sign of relief on his ascension.

His good nature can be perceived from his one act. When the minister Behram of Persian Emperor Hermuz rebelled, Khusrau Perwez the son of the Emperor fled and took refuge with him. Caesar declared Khusrau as his son, and helped him getting back his usurped throne. The Roman army fought for the Persian prince, thus both these rival Empires become friends and allies. 47

Spirit of Islam. This friendship lived for a short span as Caesar Maurice was assassinated in Syed Ameer Ali 602 AD along with his whole family, relatives and friends by General Phocas. Page: 49 They were tortured to death. The news of this atrocity reached Khusrau. To avenge the death of his benefactor, he attacked the Byzantine Empire in 603 AD and his revenge continued for twelve years, and destroyed the Empire.

Caesar Heraclius (610-641 AD):

After a long span of seventy years (post Justinian) another General captured the throne in 610 AD. Caesar Heraclius became the ruler. He was constantly attacked by Khusrau Perwez and was defeated again and again by the Persian army. His first eight years of rule were insignificant as he never could control the deteriorating situation in the Empire.

At last God helped him in gaining the strength to defeat the Persian Emperor after long battles between 622 AD to 629 AD. (For details read the Sassassnid dynasty and Persian Empire).

This Caesar was the same who was a contemporary of the holy prophet MohammadS, and to whom the prophet sent the Message of Islam.

The first two Caliphs Abu BakrR and Umar FarooqR both were his contemporaries.

Genuine (Pure) Aryan Race:

After migration of Indo-European races from Bactria, those who were left behind in the native land, were totally undiluted from external influences and effects. Hence these habitants of Bactria called themselves the bonafide genuine Aryans. They lived for centuries peacefully. With the passage of time Aryans were divided into two groups, one group moved towards Badakhshan and the other to the Balkans. They still maintained their friendly ties and lived in total harmony and peace.

In 1500 BC however monarchy took birth. The powerful faction took control of the weaker one, and soon The Kingdom of Bactria was formed. Both the groups of the monarchy due to religious differences, soon became enemies and the peace of the region was shattered.

According to the Sacred Books of Torah and Quran, NoahA lived for nearly 350 years (after the Great Flood) amongst his people and preached the monotheist faith, guiding them in their life. His sons, who became his heirs, continued the same preaching. They guided and educated their people in the religion of Allah. Hence monotheism prevailed as a faith in the region for quite a long period.

In 1500 BC conflict occurred perhaps due to the deviations some groups wanted from their ancient beliefs. Definitely the other groups (the staunch believers) opposed. This tussle erupted into skirmishes and then a war. As a result the victorious banished the weaker defeated group. Then a

48 further bifurcation occurred in the banished group one moved to the east i.e, China, and other to the south east i.e, India.

China:

In Far East thousands of miles from Europe, on the western shores of the Pacific Ocean is the land of three mighty rivers i.e, China. In its south from east to west is the natural border of the Himalayan Range which separates it geographically from India.

Archeologists and anthropologist, from the study of ruins, excavations and various inscriptions, have recorded the Chinese history as follows: Chinese claim to be the direct descendents of Japheth s/o NoahA through his grandson called Fu (or Fohi Hassi). He was the founder of the Chinese nation in 2240 BC.

He as the first ruler devised the symbolic mode of writing. He taught his people how to stitch garments to wear. He taught them and acquainted them with the art of music. He guided them in offering sacrifice to God.

The Chinese believed that Fohi was their spiritual leader who had descended from heavens.

“(God sent) to every people a guide”.

In light of this Quranic verse, and Chinese claim about Fohi, it is believed that this spiritual king was the “guide and leader” sent by God towards them to usher in the faith.

Deriving its name from Fohi Hassi or Fo Hassi, the first ruling family of China is known as Hassi Dynasty. They formed their first kingdom on the banks of Hwang Ho also known as The Yellow River. The second king of the dynasty too was regarded by his subjects as a spiritual leader and guide.

This king possessed extra-ordinary qualities, and was regarded a savior and redeemer by them. He proved to be an expert engineer, and got many barrages constructed over the unruly yellow river, which constantly flooded the regions on its banks. The barrages limited the fury of its flow and saved the settlements from floods. His expertise made him a super natural hero in the eyes of the Chinese.

The above facts were theorised by archeologists and anthropologists, based upon the data they unearthed.

The authentic (recorded) history of China is as follows:

The Shung Dynasty (1500 BC to 1050 BC):

The second Dynasty which ruled China is Shung Dynasty. The first king was T-ang. He established a new city on the banks of Rive Hwang Ho and named it Chang Chon, making it his 49 capital. He made the Codes of Chinese laws, on which the Fum social structure was built. He also laid the foundation of hierarchy (monarchy) in the country, thus his son became an heir and next ruler of the dynasty.

The Shung Dynasty reigned for more than four centuries, bringing stability to the country, and succeeding in the establishment of one of the greatest civilization of the world.

During this period development, discoveries and inventions abounded, such as:

1. Forming a new alphabetic order and script with the aid of the previous one. 2. Invented wheel for the wooden carts. 3. They learnt the act of melting copper, bronze and iron. Utilizing this new technology they made domestic appliances, tools and defence weapons. 4. Chinese Calendar was formulated which helped in agriculture activities of ploughing and harvesting. 5. The most extra-ordinary achievement was making silk from cocoons of silk worms.

For centuries Chinese kept the silk making expertise to themselves and their country. The silk was exported to western world and to India. To some extent it was the Chinese silk which introduced China to the world. The famous trade route started from Susa a harbor of Mediterranean Sea. It passed through Asia Minor towards the north of Arabia Iraq, Iran, and Russia. Via Turkistan it reached China. One of its branch connected China with India and became famous as the Silk Route (now it connects present day Pakistan to China in the north).

The Chon Dynasty (1050 BC-220 BC):

The Chon Dynasty perhaps belonged to those genuine Aryans who migrated from Bactria in 1500 BC and splitting into two groups reached China and India.

It took them centuries to reach and settle between the banks of River Hwang Ho and River Yangtze. Gradually they gained the strength to overpower the Shung rulers. Both Chon and Shung were of the same race and direct descendents of Japheth s/o NoahA. Perhaps it was this link which prevented them from blood-shed and destruction of each other's lives and assets. The Chon kings accepted many administrative rules of their predecessors. Thus a change occurred in the dynasty of rulers but calm prevailed. Culture, civilization along with prosperity and development continued to progress.

The Chon rulers gave preference and importance to Science and Philosophy. Scholars and intellectuals played a vital role in Chinese society. Amongst them Confucius (550 BC-480 BC) holds a very prominent place. His real name was Fu KungTze, his sayings and quotes are famous maxims of China, they still are a great treasure for Chinese philosophers and scholars.

During his life his sayings were not compiled in a Book form, however the need for it was felt that Chinese literature was incomplete without it. Hence in (370-285 BC) Mencius a scholar

50 compiled them. All sayings and political statements of policy were now in a Book of Confucius, which became a gem in Chinese literature.

3rd century BC brought invasions and attacks from the north. Russian savage tribes attacked and China was at war for long; which resulted in the breaking up of the country. Many areas declared independence and sovereignty.

The Chin Ti Dynasty (221-209 BC):

At last Shih Haung Ti established the Chi Ti dynasty. These kings too were Aryans. He took power without blood-shed. He is famous for two achievements.

1. He united the country into one state, titled State of China. 2. In the third century the independent units had formulated their own laws (or constitutions) which were followed in governance. Huang Ti dissolved all existing laws of those units and formulated one law (or constitution) for the entire state. All literature, documents pertaining to old laws were burnt and destroyed. Strict firm orders were issued for the enforcement of the new laws. Along with above documents the writings of Mencius, and his great efforts of compilation of Confucius's works, were also turned to ashes. Indeed a great loss to Chinese literature. This order of Haung Ti brought protests, agitation and anger amongst his subjects. He showed his disapproval to these protests by a brutal act of executing more than four hundred scholars, academics and intelligentsia (as they were the pioneers of these protests). His order further infuriated the Chinese. He became the most hated ruler of his times. 3. The third achievement of Haung Ti was the construction of the Wall of China. It was an excellent effort to thwart the invasions of northern savage tribes. This wall (one of the wonders of the world) was constructed in a period of fourteen years (218-204 BC) and is 1400 miles in length. It was a living proof of Chinese technical engineering skills. 4. Besides the wall of China, his reign is famous for construction of roads, cities and canals.

The heir to this throne proved a failure; public revolted against him and he was dethroned after four years. Thus ended the Chin dynasty after the second king.

The Han Dynasty (206 BC-220 BC):

Lin Pang (206-195 BC) a member of the same clan of the Chin Ti, captured the throne and founded The Han Dynasty, and succeeded in quelling the unrest in the state. He ruled with the same system of governance and officers set by Haung Ti. He strengthened the system and brought stability to the government. For the prosperity of the state many Land Reforms were initiated. Canals were dug from rivers, water-ways were made safe for travelling, and brought development in trade.

For development of knowledge educational institutions were established, scholarships were granted to students. Historians were appointed to record historical events of the past races and rulers. It was during his reign that the followers and students of Confucius again gathered his scattered quotes and sayings and they compiled them. This was perhaps the beginning of Confucianism. Han Wo Ti who ruled from 140-87 BC was interested and helped in this compilation and collection. His two heirs Tchao (86-75 BC) and Siran T (75-49 BC) gave the theology of Confucianism the status of (Chinese) religion in China.

All successors of the Dynasty followed and implemented the same policy, which helped them in maintaining law and order, peace and harmony internally. But external dangers persisted. All rulers of the Han dynasty had to fight the Barbaric Russian tribes of Huns. At last the Chinese succeeded in conquering Mongolia and Manchuria, now the country was safe from invasions of the Huns.

The Han rulers reigned for nearly four centuries, as powerful efficient rulers. They expanded the borders as far as Korea, southern China and northern Vietnam. They are the rightly called “The Great Hun Dynasty” of China.

In 2nd century AD a Chinese General Tsao captured the throne, thus ended the golden era of the Hans. During his rule plague spread throughout China, bringing death and destruction. The after math of this calamity was unrest, discord and discontent. Soon the vast Empire was divided in three parts and three families established their rule in each part.

1. The Northern Kingdom of Wei. 2. The Western Kingdom of Chu. 3. The Eastern Kingdom of Wu.

All three Kingdoms became rivals and the fight for supremacy started.

Nearly in 250 AD the northern kingdom of Wei, held Sway and succeeded in uniting the three parts of China. However while he was trying to restore law and order, the Huns, Mangols and Turk savage tribes descended upon the state. These invaders were interested only in sudden attacks on the border settlements, and would return after plundering and shattering the peace of the region. They came they killed, they plundered and left. The Great Wall of China too had failed in holding them back. They were the messengers of disaster, and continued in bringing devastation to china and played havoc with its progress and peace.

In the beginning of the seventh century AD the Tang rulers succeeded in saving China from total disaster. At the advent of Islam in Arabia, Tang Dynasty (618-905 AD) had started its rule in China.

India and Aryans:

Prior to the arrival of Aryans the sub-continent located beyond the foot hills of Himalayan Range was not known by the name of India. In this vast region small towns and settlements existed under different names. 52

In 1500 BC when the Aryans entered this land the sight of mighty rivers flowing down from the north pleased them and they named it “Sindhu” in their own language. When they crossed Sindhu (present day Indus flowing in Pakistan) they saw six other rivers, then they named it “Sind-Sapt” i.e, the Land of Seven Rivers (This region is now Pakistan and Indian Punjab).

As they settled down in the fertile plains of these rivers, and formed a government they called it “Arya Vart, as the Brahamans gained authority it became “Brahmin Vart”.

Many centuries after that as Darius the Great (521-485 BC) attacked and his armies entered (present day) Peshawar, Attock, West Punjab and Sindh, he called the river “Hindu” and the land “Hind”. Again Alexander changed the name in 326BC and called the river as Indus and the land as India (present day Bharat and Pakistan).

In 1870 AD when the British colonized it, (two thousand years after Alexander) they started calling it “Hindustan”.

Hindustan (Present day Bharat, Pakistan and Bangladesh): Its geography and location:

Geographically the present day Bharat, Pakistan and Bangladesh are situated in the south of the Asian Continent. Although it is in Asia but it is separated by Sea and mountain ranges in such a way that it becomes a small-continent in itself, hence it is often referred to as “Sub-Continent” (Indo- Pak).

The Great Creator of the universe bestowed this region with high mountains, green valleys, mighty rivers, fertile plains, deserts and sea shores. The region enjoys all five seasons, thus it is a God-gifted area, with natural geographic defenses.

In the north and west right from Nagaland, Assam, to Afghanistan and Iran down to the Arabian Sea, great ranges of mountains form the natural borders. They are in the form of a semi circle with only few passes making the terrain impenetrable.

The ancient People (Inhabitants) of Hindustan:

When the Aryans entered this region from the north, it was inhabited by the Dravidians. Definitely they too were the descendents of AdamA, yet history is silent about the time since when they inhabited this area. If they were immigrants, from where did they arrive and when.

The second race is the inhabitants of Indus valley (civilization) at Harrapa and Moen-jo-dero.

From the excavations at these two cities (sites) the archeologists have built up this hypothesis.

On the banks of river Indus this society which spread from Moen-jo-dero to Harrapa, over hundreds of miles, existed in 2000 BC to 1500 BC. They call it Indus Valley Civilization (situated in 53 present day Pakistan). They had their own culture and civilization. Their cities were beautifully planned, which provided the residents with adequate civic facilities, wide roads, clean streets, and an excellent drainage system. The division of the cities in sectors speaks about the existence of classes in society. All this displays their sensible conscious civil existence.

Apart from these bigger cities there were smaller ones too. They were all well planned; this is an indication that there did exist a local government system, which was excellent and efficient in its working.

From the idols and utensils it is proved that they had learnt the use of metals, but non- discovery of weapons shows they were peace-loving people.

Why and how this developed civilized region, had a downfall and got lost in the annals of history is still a mystery. Such a settled cultured society left behind no record or imprints. It is strange. If archeologists had not discovered these ruins, the world would not have known about this magnificent civilization.

There are many theories about the sudden extinction of such settled cities. One is that the continuous floods in the rivers, brought despondence in the progressing society. The wheel of civilization stopped moving as they believed that floods were not only a natural disaster but a divine punishment too. The spirit of achievement died and the passive society was easily over-come by the Aryans who arrived in 1500 BC. The Aryans established their settlements at a distance from their cities; there was no tussle between the two groups. As floods continued and some believed the river changed its course; their cities were submerged and lost forever.

Aryans in Hindustan:

When the Aryans moved out of Bactria, and branched out into two groups, one moved towards China and the other towards the east where they soon reached the high peaks of Hindu-Kush range. Instead of climbing these high cliffs they moved along the foot hills in search of Passes. At last they succeeded and found a Pass; the terrain was rough, the path and passage arduous. Yet they succeeded. One group entered from Kabul to Swat Valley and then Punjab (in Pakistan). The second group afraid of this strenuous route entered through Chitral and Gilgit (in Pakistan). They followed it as a safer route and moving along the northern range of mountains reached the central part of this country i.e, Madhya Desh (in Bharat) now known as Madhya Pradesh.

After these two major Aryan groups many others arrived during the coming centuries, and settled in this vast region, and made it their permanent abode.

When the Aryans came they had no knowledge of writing or reading. All religious or social traditions and history of their ancestors were verbally preserved. Historians have not discovered any such authentic written record which could have helped them in compiling their history. All that is recorded is based on verbal communication, or is derived from their religious books which were

54 written during 600 BC to 500 BC in Sanskrit. Their religious scholars (Rishis) kept alive this information by transferring it from one generation to the other upto 600 BC.

The sacred books which were written by Aryan priests about 600 BC, therefore provide the only authentic source of their religion i.e, the Four Vedas.

Aryans and the Sacred Vedas:

Veda is a Sanskrit word and means “To understand and to make others understand” (to learn and to teach). Sanskrit was the language of those Aryans who came to Hindustan (India).

In this one word “Veda” there are two meanings hidden.

1. Shurti: The voice of Permaishwar (their Lord) which was heard by Rishis in their sub- consciousness and repeated consciously for others to hear i.e, (they heard understood and repeated it for the benefit of others). 2. Smriti: From the religious leaders (scholars), it was heard by Saints and Devotees, then understood through their intellect and wisdom, and preserving it in their memories repeated it to the common men of their race.

Here it should be known that Aryans were worshippers of nature and worshipped various natural phenomena as wind, clouds, sun, moon, believing them to be signs of a Superior Being (God). Along with this they had belief in God who was much Superior to nature. There is a hymn in Veda (Bhajjan). “He is One but has many names”.

Hindus still believe “Vedas” are Books of Revelation. The voice of “Permaishwar” was the Divine Voice or the Voice of The God, which was heard by the Rishis heart and soul.

The Times of Veda:

Spirit of Islam. From the text of the Vedas it appears that they are from 1500 BC era. The Syed Ameer Ali greatest proof comes from the religious conflict between the two Aryan Page: 10 families in 1500 BC. The cause of enmity is found in those hymns (Bhajjans) where cursing their enemies and their religious scholars can clearly be seen.

The possibility is remote that the era of Vedas is prior to 1500 BC, but as far as writing of Vedas is concerned, historians are unanimous that they were written around 600 BC. Vedas were divided into four books according to the subjects they dealt with:

1. Rig Veda:

In this Sacred Book, hymns of praise and honor of Permaishwar are collected together and various attributes and characteristics of gods and goddesses are elaborated. 55

The number of these Bhajjans (hymns) is nearly one thousand twenty eight (1028) which are sub-divided into 10 parts. Brahmins believe these parts known as Mandals were compiled by Rishi Bhardwaj, Rishi Shawamitra and Rishi Watasht and their families. Rig Veda is also called Royal Vedas, as it also contains references to the kings and Aryan royalty. The Vedas therefore also became the source of ancient Aryan history, culture, and civilization; providing great information.

2. The Sama Veda:

This Veda is about music and its knowledge. It is a collection of religious songs, sung on the occasions of offerings and sacrifices to gods and goddesses. A study of these songs indicates that they were the spontaneous, sentimental lyrics of the Rishis, who perhaps prayed and implored to the gods in their worship.

3. The Yajur Veda:

In this Veda the methods of sacrifice and its rituals are given in considerable details. Many references in it indicate that it was a period of movement when this Veda was composed. Perhaps Aryans were branching out from Punjab towards northern India and their Religion had undergone many changes. Another opinion is that this Veda was written when the Aryans had settled down between the plains of the Satlaj and Yamuna.

4. The Atharva Veda:

This Veda is mainly about spells charms magic and lyrics of incantations. It also includes such prayers the recitation of which can enable individuals to reach Bhagwan (God) and receive divine wisdom, intuition and spiritual ecstasy. Some of them are a request to Bhagwan for the purity of life and soul.

There are charms and spells to help humans escape from wild beasts, robbers and dacoits. Some are for deliverance from grief, sorrow and diseases. Many are about sorcery and of casting evil spells and of removing these spells and curses.

This Veda tells us about magic, sorcery and superstitions prevailing in the Aryan society of that era.

When this Vedas was being written and compiled, Aryans had moved out of the Ganges and Yamuna plains and captured the state of Magadha.

The Religion of the Vedas:

As far as the ancient religious faith of the Aryans is concerned, it originated from the same source of religion brought by the Messengers of Allah.

Quran says:

Al-Quran “Allah, there is no God but He. The Living, the Self-subsisting, Supporter of Surah Al-Baqarah-2 all”. Verse : 2

Where, when and how monotheism converted into polytheism and idol-worship took roots, is a question which is very difficult to answer. The Sacred Books (Vedas) are also silent about this question.

History tells us that 1500 BC and onwards the religious codes were part of verbal recitation and remembrance descending from one generation to another. After centuries, around 600 BC they were written down. After this the written down documents got divided into four Books, which were elucidated and commented upon in the coming centuries. Much was added and annexed to the previous volumes. Along came translations in various languages from Sanskrit the Aryan language.

It is strange and mystifying that along with clearly accepting Permeshwar as “He is One, all names belong to Him” the Vedas also preached that there are three Supreme Powers responsible for running of the Universe.

1. Brahma___The Creator. 2. Vishnu___The Preserver. 3. Shiva___The Destroyer.

Along with these Supreme Beings they also worshipped nature's phenomena like sun, moon, clouds, air, fire etc, as manifestations of the One Supreme Permaishwar. From the study of the Vedas it can be concluded that originally Aryans were not idol-worshippers, and had no temple or worshipping places. Brahmin priests used to performs religious rituals in open air; worship and prayers were offered under the sky. Music accompanied the recitation of religious songs, hymns and incantations.

Sacrifice and offerings as religious rituals was a regular feature. The Yajur Veda and Brahman Garanth both carry detailed explanations of sacrifice offerings and allied rituals.

The rituals of sacrifice were simple and plain, usually the object of sacrifice was placed over blazing fire. Perhaps this is the reason fire god was also called god of sacrifice.

The Caste System:

When and how humans were divided into Castes on the basis of birth, is also unknown. Knowing that descendents of NoahA were spread all around the world, it is strange to find that the Caste System does not exist anywhere in the world except India.

Those who migrated from Bactria to Europe and Persia or China, were unaware of this system and no such social or religious division is found amongst their societies.

Furthermore we do not find any signs of Caste System amongst the original inhabitants of India, as discovered by archeologists in Moen-jo-dero and Harrapa, nor was the society of Dravidians of northern India acquainted with it.

When the Aryans entered India in 1500 BC, they were a united people. They were physically superior in physique and appearance. The locals were dark in complexion, shorter in height, having coarse features.

In their superiority complex the Aryans named them Das or Dasu (Ghosts and Demons). They refrained from living in their settlements or near them, instead established their abodes at a fair distance; and avoided social links with them. They disliked their existence in their neighborhood, and soon conflicts and fighting erupted between them. Aryans being superior in physical strength soon succeeded in pushing the locals towards south. Those who did not flee were made slaves and servants. All rights were denied to them, to maintain their subservient status.

This was the first division in the population. Despite this there is indication in the Rig Veda that social relations, economic dealings and in some rare cases inter-marriages were in vogue.

The female population being in minority in Aryan society, Aryans also married Dravidian women but rarely.

Aryans spread all over India from east to west and named their land Arya-wart. Now becoming a nation they felt the need of protecting their beliefs for which religious scholars and leaders were essential, to maintain law and order and to run the administration of their settlements they needed political leaders, rulers and administrators. As borders protection became necessary the need of warriors and fighters arose. For all these systems to work finances were essential so landlords, traders, merchants, farmers, industrialists and craftsmen came into existence.

Since all these needs were to be catered for; four categories of people took birth. Brahmins for religious affairs, Kshatryas to rule and defend, for working economy the Vaisyas and for service and menial duty Sudras.

Gradually this social division (or division of labor) permanently formed four castes: 1. Brahmins. 2. Kshatrya. 3. Vaisya. 4. Sudra.

A study of Vedas, indicates that initially these divisions were purely for management and dispensation of social and governance duties. The system devised did not aim at division of society and humans on basis of birth. It was not that each Brahmin was a spiritual leader or religious scholar, or every Kshatrya a warrior or ruler; similarly every Vaisya was not a merchant, trader or craftsman. It was compulsory for Brahmins only to act as scholars, Kahatryas to be soldiers and rulers, or Vaisyas to follow the professions of their groups. Each individual belonging to any of the castes, if possessed the capabilities could easily cross-over. A Brahmin could be the commander of an army, a Kshastrya a scholar or a trader, and a Vaisya a ruler or a soldier. For example, Varoona

Charya (a Brahmin) was the military advisor to the Pandu Brothers. Lord Krishan of a Kshatrya family became a religious spiritual leader whose philosophies are elaborate in Bhagwat Geeta. Varoona Charya born in a Brahmin family, spent his life as a warrior (Kshatrya). Lord Krishna a Kshatrya rose to such spiritual heights that he was regarded as tenth (Avatar) of Vishnu, and is worshipped as a deity.

Briefly we can say that this rigidity of Caste System did not exist in the origin and outset of the system, it took birth later, after which a person born in a caste died in the same caste.

Changes in Aryan Religion:

During 800 BC and 500 BC the Aryans were influenced by the indigenous Indian gods and goddesses and the religious practices. The idols (deities) of mud and stone attracted them to such an extent that soon Aryans, the worshippers of nature turned into idol-worshippers. It is believed that the Sacred literature was revised accordingly to accommodate the new views, and thus deviations from Vedas were formalized.

Apart from these people, we find a small group of those Brahmins in Arya Wart, who possessed intellectual insight and discerning powers, which made them search for the Ultimate truth and Reality. They were busy in finding answers about Parmatmaa (God).

Four Segment of Life (Ashram): 1. Segment of religious learning (Braham-chary Ashram):

Children from childhood to adolescent age were supposed to achieve knowledge under the spiritual guidance of a religious teacher.

2. Domestic and worldly life segment (Grhist Ashram): This period was to be spent in worldly affairs and domestic matters for continuation of human race, managing family life and begetting of children being the duty of individuals.

3. Life of retirement and seclusion (Van Ashram): Middle age should be spent in seclusion and retirement as a hermit, away from worldly affairs, in worship, religious exercises, devotions, austerity, meditation and study of hymns.

4. Life of religious ascetic (Sanyasy Ashram): The fourth part of life is that of religious ascetic who has to spend his old age for the welfare and service of humanity, desisting from personal worldly matters and spending time for the betterment of humanity. 59

All these four segments were meant for the Brahmins, yet common people if interested could also follow them.

This division of an individual's life was not found in the first era of the Rig Veda, but came into shape during the last era of the Vedas.

The history of the Vedas indicates that the Brahmins spent nearly three centuries (800-500 BC) in developing their revised views. They held secret meetings where discussions and debates were held. The result of all these efforts was three more sacred sources

1. The Brahmans. 2. The Aranya kas. 3. The Upanishads.

All these became the supplements of Vedas and are also regarded as Shurti or Revelation. They are also called Vedanta the last part of the Vedas.

The teachings found in above-mentioned sources can be summarized as: 1. The whole universe and objects in it are composite constituents of (Parmatmaa) the Omnipotent. Each part is sustained by it and returns to end up in It. 2. Religion is the name of certain customs, and rituals performed at sacrifice offerings, for the salvation of the human soul. 3. Self mortification and retribution is essential for the salvation of human soul. Atonement, penitence can only be achieved through strict regulations, restrain and the chastisement of the human body, thus a Puritan life can only bring salvation.

All these three principles of the new teachings were totally against the preaching's of the original Divine monotheistic principles. Yet these developments were beneficial for the Aryans society.

In this era of their enlightenment and wisdom, the Brahmin's supremacy in knowledge and their moral ethical excellence strengthened their authority. Their proficiency in religious affairs soon made them an inter-mediary between humans and Bhagwan; soon all segments of Aryan society were in their firm grip.

To retain their hegemony and domination they needed the physical strength of the warriors and rulers, so they gained the confidence of the Kshatryas, which brought great dividends to them. The courage, fighting spirit and political clout of Kshatryas caste benefitted the Brahmins. For financial gains the Vaisyas were given privileges, which helped in uplifting the economy. Their existence and development became important for each government. The Sudra's were the least privileged class as they were meant to serve the three upper castes. The passage of time saw Caste as bondage. Customs and traditions along with religious rituals of sacrifice developed to such a complicated state that all sectors of Aryan society were lost in this labyrinth. From birth to death a long list of rituals awaited an individual. Frustration and dejection soon spread among the Aryans and many took refuge in Buddhism and Jainism.

Downfall of the Aryan Religion and Rise of Buddhism and Jainism

In the history annals of Japheth s/o NoahA's descendents, the period of 150 years from 628 to 479 BC is very important because it saw the birth of four religions.

1. Zoroaster 628-551BC in Persia. 2. Confucius 551-470BC in China. 3. Mahavira 599-527 BC Arya Wart (India). 4. Gautama Buddha 563-483 BC in Arya Wart (India).

In this period of awareness and enlightenment we find these four great teachers and founders of new religions, bringing a revolutionary change in the regions west of Bactria from Persia to China and Arya Wart (India). This was a peaceful change, challenging yet influencing the majority of people who converted and became followers of these great guides accepting their teachings. (For details of Confucius and Zoroaster see Persia and China).

Mahavira and Jainism:

His real name was Natputta Vardhamna known as Mahavira (the great hero). Jain (a puritan) was a title given to him by his devotees.

From this title is derived the name of his religion i.e, Jainism (puritanism).

The Jains claim their religion is one of the most ancient ones, whose founder or first prophet was Tirthankara Rasthba and last was Mahavira. Between these two there were 22 others who came one after the other. However out of these 22 prophets only one Paeshva is recorded in history.

About Paeshva too, only few details are available. He was born 250 years before Mahavira in present day Banaras to king Ashu Sen. Spending twenty three years in the Palace, a life of royalty, he meditated for 84 days and achieved salvation witnessing the Divine light and knowledge.

He reformed his religion and propounded new principles and laws. He spent the rest of his life preaching his vision. He taught four basic principles of Jainism.

1. Refrain from torturing living things. 2. Do not lie. 3. Do not steal 4. Do not be tempted by wealth.

24th TirTkankara:

Vardhamna Mahavira and his family were followers and devotees of Paeshva. They belonged to the Kshatriya's tribe Ganar Trika. The maternal uncle of Mahavira, Chetak was the ruler of Vasaly. 61

Mahavira left the luxurious palace life at the age of 23 and entered dense forests for meditation. He spent a year in such rigorous self-mortification and religious penance that he lost all senses of physical needs. So much so that all royal garments were tattered. Oblivious to his naked position, he spent the rest twelve years in forests and valleys, torturing his body, for the benefit of the soul, according to his religious beliefs, leading a life of an ascetic.

It is related that when he reached the hills of Pashunath, in the village of Jrimbhik at the age of 42, the mysteries of Truth and Reality dawned upon him. Then his tribe accepted him as their Tirthankara and bestowed upon him the titles of “Mahavira” and “Jain”.

Mahavira spent the rest of his thirty years following his mission of spreading Jainism in the states of Magadha, Oudh and Kanshilla.

Teachings of Mahavira:

1. Cleans your body and soul from the impurities of sins. 2. Have faith in your Tirtankaras (their apostles or prophets). 3. Salvation lies only in absolute confidence, right knowledge and appropriate behavior and act. 4. Right knowledge is understanding of Salvation and principles of non-violence (Ahnsa), appropriate act is not to lie, not to steal, not to torture living things and having no greed for the wealth and assets of others.

Apart from above he also criticized the customs, traditions and rituals mentioned in the Vedas as useless and prohibited his followers from performing them. He stressed upon breaking the bonds of Caste System.

He laid stress on moral and ethical values in all fields of human life. He believed purity and virtues were to be preserved at any cost and this was the greatest duty of individuals.

Despite these teachings, it is strange that he is silent about God and mentions no link with Him. About God the Jains have an extra-ordinary philosophy.

Jains believe God is actually the hidden Superior noble qualities of a human soul, from which man derives his strength.

Buddhism and its founder, Siddhartha Gautama Buddha

Buddhism one of the largest religion of the world originated in India from where it spread in all directions. Today majority of the eastern Asian countries have followers of this faith such as China, Tibet, Mongolia, Manchuria, Korea, Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia and Srilanka.

There are detailed account of Buddha's birth and life in the ancient historical literature based on verbal communication. The books which were written in Sanskrit and Pali languages much later after Buddha's death. They are therefore a combination of truth and legend.. 62

These books tell us about the incidences of Buddha's childhood, he was a meditative child, often lost in thoughts, which are regarded as his childhood meditation and are related under the title “Jatic” (means a child).

Another book is Lalita Vistara in Sanskrit, in which his spiritual powers and achievements are given. Other books (Triptaka) written in Pali, about teachings of Buddha, and details of his followers and devotees life.

Guatama Buddha's life can briefly be described as under:

Siddhartha Gautama Buddha (563-483 BC):

In the 6th century BC, the city of Kapil-Vastu in the foot hills of Himalayas (present day Nepal), was ruled by the Sakya Clan. A child was born to it's ruler Sadhudhan's wife Mahamaya. when she was returning from a journey to the city Kapil-Vastu. The spot of child's birth was under an old tree in Lambini Garden, where King Asoka had a tablet installed with the inscription: “Here was born the magnificent One”.

This tablet was erected here in 250 BC, and still exists.

Seven days after his birth the mother died. The father named him Siddhartha and entrusted him to be nourished and brought up by his step-mother Gautamy. This was the reason why the child was called Siddhartha Gautama.

On his birth astrologers predicted that the infant will either become a great ruler and victor or a great religious scholar.

He was brought up in the lap of comfort and luxuries, love and care of a princely life. His father arranged elaborately for his education. He was raised like a soldier, military training disciplined him. All precautions were taken hat he did not leave the limits of the Palace. At the age of sixteen he was married to the, most beautiful girl of the clan, Yashodra.

However all these comforts and disciplined life, could not bring solace to his disturbed and truth-seeking soul. A continuous mental struggle made him seclusive. For hours he would sit alone, lost in thoughts, totally cut off from his surroundings. Many questions perturbed him, like the grief and difficulties of life. Consequently he was not contented with his life in the Palace. At the age of 29 he became a father. A son was born, whose birth was celebrated with fervor; by his grandfather. This new joy in his life too failed in satisfying his spiritual urges. Ultimately he left the palace in search of replies to questions which were bothering his mind. His inner urge was so strong that the luxuries of the palace, the beauty of his wife and the love of his son, all failed to hold him back. Breaking all these chains and bonds of life, he left in the middle of night while all were sleep in the palace.

According to one tradition Gautama Buddha took his chariot driver Channa, and both rode out of the palace. When he reached the bank of river Anoma, then taking off his royal garments, he

63 handed them to his servant and ordered him to return to the palace with his clothes and horse. Himself dressed as hermit he left on foot towards the forests of Rajgardh.

Here we should remember, that this custom of abandoning worldly life in search of spiritual truth and heading towards caves, forests and waste-lands was not something new. It had been existing amongst the Aryans. Perhaps it was initially followed by the Brahmins in 7th and 8th century BC. They used to leave the worldly affairs in search of Salvation, and lead a life of physical torment. Gradually this practice spread among the seekers of salvation; the life of self-denial, strict discipline and long hours of meditations at the cost of physical torture.

As far as the religion preached by all prophets of God is concerned, all the Four Holy Books of Revelation (Torah, Zabur, Bible and Quran) clearly state this path of self-denial and torture is totally against religion. This path has not been mentioned in the Four Vedas too. But the four segments of life as devised in the post-Veda period by the Brahmins do lay stress on these factors.

Siddhartha Buddha as Buddha:

The causes of Siddhartha Gautama Buddha following the prevalent path of Hermit life were not that he wished and desired Salvation through it, nor did he embark on the journey to find solace for his agitated and restless soul.

He left all his personal luxuries, and beloveds behind at the peak of his youth, in search of Truth. His search was not only for inhabitants of Arya Wart but for all humans at large.

Rajgardh was the capital of Maghdha state. Many religious leaders and scholars lived there. The forests, mountains, terrains and caves provided ideal places of seclusion for meditation and worship. Hence the seekers flocked this region and many Saints, Sadhus and Sanyassy (hermits) headed for this region.

Gautama too chose the same forests where he met the Sage Alarkalama. This Sage taught him the philosophy of the “realm of nothingness”. Although Gautama achieved a high degree of proficiency with his teacher, but personally he was disappointed with his progress. Buddha then went to another Sage Owa, who taught him that to gain the peak of spiritualism, only meditation was not enough, rigorous physical austerity was also needed. He taught Buddha the philosophy of the “realm of neither perception nor non-perception”, Gautama spent six years of strict self denial and physical agony in the forests of Dawela. His body ultimately reached a state of total physical annihilation. As he faced death he decided to give up this method too and started taking food to nourish his body. After restoring his heath, he sat down under an ancient tree, cross-legged with the resolve that he will not leave or rise from his position until he had attained enlightenment.

It was the first day of his meditation, that he felt light of knowledge reaching his mind, and he witnessed the exclusive Divine Light. Thus Truth and Reality descended upon his soul.

This was the ultimate point he reached which made him the “enlightened one”. In Sanskrit the same state is called “Buddhi”, hence his title 'Buddha' (the enlightened one). He became famous by 64 his clans name too and is also called Siddhartha Gautama Buddha Sakyamani. He reached this stage at the age of 35.

Buddhism brought a great change and a ready appeal to masses. The Aryan Vedic religion had deviated a great deal from the original teaching of NoahA. At this juncture of 6th and 7th century BC, two prominent philosophies were prevailing among the Brahmins. They were diametrically opposite to each other: 1. Brahmins of this belief felt full indulgence in the beauties of worldly life was essential. 2. Brahmins of other group felt that total abandment of worldly life, negation of human needs and desires was necessary, and one was supposed to leave for forests and caves to spend his life as hermit.

Gautama finally left the shade of the tree as a great Buddhi, he had at last succeeded in finding enlightenment, yet he was not a Brahmin Buddhi, but had become a Reformer and Preacher of a new set of beliefs. He carried with him a great treasure of knowledge, which he had accumulated in six or seven years. The light which had dawned upon him, had shown him the remedies of human sufferings and sorrows. He had discovered the path to Truth and Salvation which in Buddhism is called “Asht Marg” or (the path of eight principles). His eight principles became the basis of his teachings, and he devoted and dedicated the rest of his life in preaching these principles.

Teachings of Buddha:

Buddha taught that there were four great Truths on which depends the success and failure of humans.

1. The first Truth is that this world is in a state “Dukkha” i.e, sorrow, grief, anxiety, suffering, pain and dissatisfaction which causes misery. 2. The second Truth is “Trishna” i.e, a desire for worldly needs and seeking satisfaction through luxuries and comforts. When this desire is unfulfilled life appears to be miserable and full of dukkha. 3. The third Truth is that by controlling Trishna, one can get over Dukkha. 4. The fourth Truth is that Trishna can be controlled by following Asht Marg or eight principles.

Asht Marg or Eight Principles of the Noble path:

The “Asht Marg” or the eight principles are:

1. True or right understanding. 2. True or right intention. 3. True or right conduct. 4. True or right occupation. 5. True or right Endeavour and struggle.

6. True or right contemplation and attention. 7. True or right speech. 8. True or right concentration and meditation.

These simple and true principles of a righteous, virtuous religious life had great attraction for all people, the high caste as well the low caste.

Sermons of Gautama Buddha and Teachings of Buddhism:

Seven weeks after the Revelation of the Truth, Buddha decided to leave the forest. First he tried to find Alarakalma and Owa the two saints from whom he took lessons but came to know about their death. Then he travelled towards cities, and reached a place called “Saainath” near Banaras. He stayed there for a short period, and attracted the attention of some like-minded people. In their gathering he decided to deliver his first sermon at a garden known as “Haran Bagh”. In it he laid stress that his teachings and doors were open for all. Initially a few were attracted and became his followers. With the help of these followers, Buddha founded the monastic order, known as “Sangha”. These followers became his first disciples, Bhikshus, and labored hard in spreading his teachings amongst the people. Many more people became his followers and their strength started growing.

After this initial success Buddha sent his disciples to preach in northern India, into the states of Maghada, Kausal, Ang, Ouuti, Koshambi. He himself continued to deliver his sermons and religious lectures. His third sermon delivered in the famous Brahmin centre Glasarsa was so appealing and impressive, that three powerful chiefs of the area converted to Buddhism along with their clans and tribes. Soon after, Bimbisara the ruler of Maghada arrived with a large retinue and respectfully invited Buddha to his state as an honorable guest. He allotted a piece of land for “Buddha Sangha” in his state.

Return to Kapil-Vastu:

It is believed that the father of Buddha had tried his best to groom him as a ruler, From his childhood. But his efforts failed, and Buddha left the palace. For quite some time little was known to the father about his son. When news started reaching about the son's success and fame the Father started sending emissaries to his son to return home. However every emissary after reaching Buddha was attracted by Buddha's teachings, became his disciple and failed to return or report back to the king.

At last he sent a childhood friend of Buddha, who conveyed king's message to him. Buddha agreed and started his journey to homeland. At the gates of the city his old father, young son and other relatives gave a warm welcome to Buddha, and took him into the city.

The next morning Buddha with his disciples walked in the streets with their begging-bowls, knocking at each house for “Bhikshah”, (Charity).

This unique display of controlling Trishna, the demonstration of proud heads of nobility and royalty begging and bowing before the ordinary citizens, sent a powerful message amongst the people. It was an effective technique of preaching but, for his royal family and ruling father it was a cause of humility, hence they protested and the father conveyed to his son and complained, Buddha replied humbly: “Indeed rulers and kings do not beg nor live on charity, but he himself was not a king but a Buddhi, and his actions and deeds are not akin to that of king”.

After this reply, Buddha delivered a brief sermon, reciting spiritual verses, which were unheard off, by his audience. Hearing his sermon his father Saddhudhan along with some other of the family converted to Buddhism. They took Buddha onto the palace, where his wife and other women folk along with his stepmother also converted. His younger brother was so impressed that he become his disciple and also became a member of the Sangha monastic order.

This was difficult time for old Saddhudhan as both of his heirs had renounced the world. Pinning his hopes on his grandson (Rahoola, the son of Buddha) he decided to appoint him as his successor and heir.

When Buddha came to know about his father intentions he summoned his wife and son, addressing him he said: “O Rahoola! Refrain from giving this world and it's luxury and comfort, a place in your heart, as this world and all its phenomena's are mortal. Come with me, I will make you, my heir of that enlightenment which I received under Buddhi tree (tree of knowledge)”.

Upon this his son too refused to be a worldly heir to his grandfather, and joined the monks to become an heir to his father. This decision of his son pleased Buddha, but displeased his father. Sensing this situation Buddha thought and observed that: “If all members of a society will become monks, then who will rule and look after the people? Who will look after the families and their needs? Who will govern them? How will the administration of a state be run, who will maintain law and order? Who will protect and defend the state”? These and other such questions made him re-think, and then he announced the principle: “Every person before becoming a monk has to take permission from his father i.e, the father has to agree”.

After spending some time in Kapil-Vastu, Buddha embarked on his mission, and spent the rest of his life preaching and travelling; he died in 482 BC at the age of 80 years in Kusinara or Kushinagar (modern Kasia, near Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, state of India).

At the time of his death he was staying at the house of his close disciple Chanda, a blacksmith. Prior to his death he uttered these words: “O People of the world, be aware of this finite world, and work for Salvation”. 67

Buddha's Stupas:

After his death his devotee rulers quarreled over the disposition of his remains. Each ruler wished the skeleton to be given to him for burial. Finally by the consent of some wise monks, the remains were divided into eight portions, and given to each ruler. Each took them to his capital city, buried them there, and erected magnificent structures over them. These structures came to be known as Buddha's Stupas.

Teachings of Buddha:

The foremost teaching of Buddha was denial and negation of the various Aryan deities, their power and reliance of humans upon them. However different Buddhist sects hold different beliefs on this issue. Some hold that Buddha did not believe in God but believe in the all powerful Souls. Some hold that Buddha believed in gods and goddesses but not in Creator God. Some others hold that Buddha believed in One Supreme God.

Apart from belief in gods and goddesses, Buddha also refused to accept the superiority and religious authority of the Brahmins. He regarded the Caste System as a meaningless division of society and preached equality, brotherhood, love and tolerance in human society. He preached that all humans belonging to any clan or caste can reach the stage of Nirvana and Salvation through virtuous deeds and by following the eight principles (Asht Marg).

Thirdly he regarded all those customs, traditions and rituals of sacrifice followed by the Brahmins as useless. He was totally against the sacrifice of animals, and even burning of humans occasionally at the altar of deities. He preached that: “Sacrifices of living beings (animals or humans) by torture, killing or burning all are great sins”.

Thus non-violence became the essence of Buddhist teachings.

Fourthly he rejected both the philosophies of either strict austerity and self-denial or enjoyment of luxurious life. He preached the middle way by avoidance of both extremes and believed through this negation of extremes one can gain the enlightenment of the Middle way. To follow this path he laid down the following guidelines:

1. Killing of living creatures or things is forbidden. 2. Theft is forbidden. 3. Falsehood is prohibited. 4. Use of Alcohol is not allowed. 5. Gossip and slander is forbidden. 6. Propagation of others faults is forbidden. 7. Hatred and contempt is forbidden. 8. Desire of wealth is not allowed. 9. Adultery is a sin. 10. Ignorance and lack of knowledge should be wiped put. 68

Moral and Ethical Duties:

Buddhism lays so much stress on ethical duties that it can easily be called “The Religion of Ethics”. Buddha said: “Parents and elders should be respected (at all cost). Sympathy must be shown towards children, the old and the needy. Poor and needy should be provided for, through actions and deeds, love for humanity should be evident”.

Incarnation:

Although majority of Buddhist sects believe that Buddha preached “Incarnation” but some of his sermons throw doubt on this issue. According to principles of Incarnation human soul cannot reach the final bliss of Salvation i.e, Nirvana unless it is totally free from then cycle of rebirth. The way to achieve this goal is through good deeds or good Karma. Good Karma ensures a good future birth and bad Karma results in bad future birth. For each soul the cycle of death and rebirth continues repeatedly until the soul is able to shed off all bad Karma and achieve salvation.

This philosophy of Reincarnation is however opposed by the Religion of God which was preached by Messengers of God one after the other and which says that rebirth after death will occur only once i.e, on the Day of Resurrection.

However Buddhism came as a great revolutionary gift in the Brahmin society, which had degraded and deteriorated socially, politically and culturally. The religion of Brahmins which suffered from complicated rituals, difficult Sanskrit holy literature and Caste system, came face to face with Buddhism which offered simple solution to all in simple Pali language irrespective of color, caste or creed. Buddhism therefore spread like jungle fire.

The rigorous religious exercises of austerity and self-torture gave place to the Noble Eight Fold Way (Asht Marg) which was attractive and much easier to follow. Thus Buddhism became a popular religion in the region.

As Buddhism had hit hard at the roots of Brahmin's religion, hence the high Caste of Brahmins were against it. But their opposition subsided completely during the reign of Buddhist king, Asoka the Great (275-232 BC). It was under Asoka's reign that Buddhism became the State Religion of the region. But this glory and splendor was short lived as the rule of Asoka's descendents weakened Buddhism was banished from India, though it spread outside the realms of Brahmanism.

Aryan Wart (India). Political Situation (600 BC to 600 AD):

The first few centuries after the arrival of Aryans in India were spent in fighting and subduing the locals (Dravidians). When they succeeded either in subjugating them as slaves or driving them to the south; the Aryans established small and big cities, smaller estates gave place to kingdoms. The ancient tribal system survived in the mountainous terrain only.

According the history of Vedic times (1000-500 BC) the area between Punjab and Madhya Pradesh in northern India was called Aryan Wart, having two kingdoms.

1. Kingdom of Ikshivaku:

Founded by Ikshiva chief, its capital was Audhya, sometimes the kingdom was also called Audhya. Amongst its famous kings were Dilip II, Raghu Dastrath and Ram Chanderji.

2. Pururavara:

This family was the second largest dynasty of rulers in Madhya Pradesh. They ruled over the area between Qanuj and Banaras.

The most famous king of this dynasty was Yayati. He divided his kingdom amongst his five sons. Two of them Puro and Yadiv are famous. The children of Puro, Bhart, Hastna and Karn are historical figures.

Bhart became so powerful that Aryan Wart became Bharat after his name and one of the most remembered Epic of the world is also named after him, “Mahabharata” (relating to the battles he fought). Karn and Hastna ruled over the present day Thaneesar, Delhi, Upper Do-Aaba, the capital was Hastnapur, and plains were called Karn-Kashtar. In the coming centuries Magadha and Dawarka (Gujrat) were also annexed to Hastnapur.

Apart from these two kingdoms, tribal rule existed in Farukabad, and Rohilkhand, under five tribes who were strong and powerful. It was called Punjaal.

During the end of Vedic era, when Buddhism came into existence, then due to expansion of ruling families these kingdoms were divided and sub-divided. Many kings ruled over smaller kingdoms. There was no central government in the region of Madhya Pradesh stretching in the south as far as Narbada River. Many kings accepted Buddhism, but none thought of making it the State Religion.

Post demise of Gautama Buddha (483 BC) till the invasion of Alexandra the Great in 326 BC, during 150 years Aryan Wart was divided politically and religiously into two major divisions.

1. Sapt Sindhu___ Punjab. 2. Madhya Pradesh___Hindustan. 70

1. Sapt Sindhu (Punjab):

Darius the Great (485-521 BC) conquered the region on the west bank of river Indus and annexed it with Sassanid Empire (Persia). The Persians named the land “Hind”. Prior to Alexander the Great's invasion, many small independent states had come into existence here, which made the conquests of Alexander the great easier.

However beyond Indus on the eastern bank was the area of Shahpur, Jhelum and Gujrat, where Raja Porus ruled. Along this land up to Ravi River his brother was the ruler, onwards on the western bank of river Bias small chieftains held sway.

2. Madhya Pradesh:

Beyond river Bias on the eastern banks till Magdha (southern Bihar and Assam) lay the region of Madhya Pradesh, where between the two mighty rivers Ganges and Yamuna ruled the powerful Nanda Dynasty.

In 326BC when Alexander attacked after conquering Persia, he destroyed the north-western tribal belt and entered the Indus valley of Sindh, here the only resistance he faced was from Raja Porus.

Raja Porus was defeated but it was a bitter victory for the Greeks, they refused to cross Bias as they were afraid of the powerful Nanda rulers. This conflict among the army commanders, made Alexander return.

The second cause was his attitude, he rushed like a hurricane with great speed over a vast region, destroying, plundering, killing, uprooting thrones and rulers. As he advanced he left behind hatred, revolt, chaos, violence and turbulence. While he was still deciding to cross the Bias, news arrived about revolt in Persia, he immediately decided to return, he left by boats through Indus river, reaching Makran Coasts (now in Pakistan) he moved towards Persian Gulf via Indian ocean's north western shores and soon reached Babylon, where died at the young age of 33 due to high fever in 323 BC. (For details see the heading Alexander of Macedonia).

End of Greek Reign and Mauryan Empire (316-232 BC):

While Alexander was attacking the tribes in the Hindu-Kush mountains the Nanda Dynasty in northern India in Magadh State, was suffering from ill rule by incompetent kings causing widespread dis-satisfaction and injustice among masses. Among these suffering people there were two individuals who in later life became famous historical figures. They were Chander Gupta Mauriya and a Brahmin priest Vishnu Gupta Chankeya.

The traditions of Buddhism relate that Brahmin Vishnu Gupta who became famous in history as Chankeya, was a priest from a Brahmin family. Nanda rulers were against Brahmins, and harassed them. He feeling unsafe left for the forests disguised as a hermit (Sadhu).

In the heavenly beautiful valley of the Himalayas was the State Maurya Nagar. It was attacked by a neighboring king and the invader killed the ruler of the state and his whole family. One of the ruler's (widowed) wife fled alive and with the aid of her brother she reached Patliputr the capital of Magdha, where she gave birth to a son. She was living a life of abject poverty, and fear of enemies, when her son was born she hid him in a manor. The owner of the manor picked up the infant, and adopted him; he gave him the name Chandar Gupta.

The irony of the fate was that the mother saw him growing up, but was afraid of owning him, she was contented that he was near her, and was looked after with care and love.

We have no historical record of his first 25 years, but it is known that when he grew up and learnt about himself, hatred against the Nanda family too grew up with him. This hatred changed into the desire of revenge. Then he met Chankya, both had suffered at the hands of Nanda clan, common enemy made them friends and allies, they were still planning their revenge, when Alexander invaded Indian Punjab. This new situation frightened them and they decided to await the results of the attack, and to monitor the situation; and turn of events.

The sudden departure of Alexander provided a golden opportunity to Chander Gupta. Taking advantage of the unrest and hatred against Alexander amongst the tribes and rulers, he fanned the flames of rebellion in the region. Soon all these forces united under his flag. In all these efforts he was constantly advised by Chankya who was a shrewd politician and an expert planner.

This movement soon forced the Greeks out of India in 321 BC.

The people of Punjab, Sindh and tribal belt also submitted to Chander Gupta, one of the most powerful tribal chief gave his daughter in marriage to him. This marriage increased his strength and soon more warrior tribes became his allies.

First he strengthened and established his rule in Punjab and Sindh. Then he invaded Agra, Oudh and Bihar and after conquering them, he advanced towards the capital of Magdha. After a fierce fight he conquered it too.

Chander Gupta, Seleucus and Maxthenes: Seleucus was a Greek General, who after Alexander captured the region of Central Asia and some parts of western Asia in 312 BC. He established the Seleucusid Empire in this region. His intentions were to annex India too, but when he attacked Punjab he was defeated by the armies of Chander Gupta. He had to sign a treaty for peace and had to hand over Kabul, Herat, Qandahar and Baluchistan to the victor. He married off his daughter to Chander Gupta.

Seleucus sent Maxthenes as his ambassador to the court of Chander Gupta, who stayed there from 320 BC to 298 BC. 72

A great achievement of Maxthenes is his written memories and historical details of Chander Gupta's reign and Empire. Much that is known today about this mighty king is through his writings.

Chander Gupta established a vast Empire. To the south, it's borders touched the province of Barar, Arabian Sea in south east, Bay of Bengal in the east and in the north-west and north the Hindu-Kush range. Besides the natural and geographical protection provided by mountains and oceans the Empire was defended and stabilized by the shrewd wisdom of Chander Gupta's advisor Vishnu Gupta Chankya.

Importance of Mauryan Rule:

The establishment of Chander Gupta's Empire initiated a new era of Indian political history. The whole region came under the reign of one Ruler. Prior to this the history of Aryan Wart finds various rulers and Rajas holding sway over smaller states, there was no national unity or central law. Chander Gupta brought national unity, political stability and a central law for his Empire.

To bring about religious harmony, he gave full liberty to Buddhism, and personally took interest in its preaching, propagation and promotion. Soon it was elevated from a local faith to an international one. It is believed that he himself converted to Buddhism.

The Jain claims him to be a Jain; perhaps the claim is true, for we find him renouncing the throne and worldly affairs. He then along with 1200 Jains followed his spiritual leader Bhadra Bhan towards Deccan (South India) and led a rigorous life of self-restrain and self-mortification until his death.

Bandu Sara Maurya (297-257 BC):

Chander Gupta left his throne to his son Bandu Sara. He ruled for forty years under the same principles as those of his father. Following his foot-steps he maintained peace, law and order. His reign brought progress and prosperity to the people.

Asoka the Great (297-232 BC):

Asoka succeeded his father Bandu Sara. This grandson of Chander Gupta is known as Asoka the Great in Indian history.

He had inherited a vast stable, peaceful, progressive Empire. His achievements are the maintenance of what he received. He fought only one battle during his reign, the battle of Kalinga (present day Orissa). It was one of the most horrible battles of history.

Buddhists records tell us that Kalinga was an ancient state in the south of Maurya Empire, along the south east shores of Indian Ocean. This state between the two famous rivers Mahanadi and Godavari, had dense forests, abounding with elephants. 73

The landscape was beautiful and state held the importance of a link between the northern and southern India. It was a great trading centre, and to reach Deccan, traveling through it was necessary.

The Maurya rulers had been apprehensive of this independent sovereign state. Except this state the rest of India was under their sway. To leave an independent powerful state in their neighborhood was against the political acumen of the Mauriya rulers of those times. From Buddhist sources we learn that Asoka too was a strict, harsh and severe person, cruel and tyrant to some extent in the initial stage of his rule, like his predecessors. Hence the attack on Kalinga and its peaceful people was nothing but the greed of expansion and intolerance of its independent status.

But the havoc his armies played on Kalinga, the disaster and blood-shed, brought a change in his personality. From a harsh, temperamental tyrant, he became a benevolent philanthropist.

To attack Kalinga, Asoka had gathered a large army (261 or 259 BC) and spent a huge amount in preparations of the battle. The Kalinga army was unable to stand against this great force and was totally routed. Asoka won, but more than one hundred thousand people were killed, the same number injured and a large number taken as prisoners of war. These bloody horrible sights shook the conscience of Asoka, which shuddered with disgust and at this point he became a changed person, for which he got the immortal title of Asoka the Great in history. The battle ended, prisoners were unfettered the injured catered for and the victorious army left form Patliputr (Patna). If he had converted to Buddhism prior to this battle, now he followed it in earnest. He adorned himself now as a Buddhist Monk, and led his life on the Buddhist principles and laws.

Till then Buddhism had been a religion of the common man, and had not reached the corridors of power from the streets. Asoka declared it the State Religion, and for its propagation formed an especial squad of preachers. Their duty was to travel throughout the Empire preaching Buddhism.

Asoka believed a true ruler caters not only for the worldly needs of his subjects but for their spiritual needs too. To fulfill this need instead of following the traditional method of getting the sermons and preaching written in volumes of Books, he followed a comparatively simpler and effective method. Buddhist principles and laws were carved on boulders in the hilly terrains, whereas in the plains were engraved over pillars and minarets for the guidance of the people.

All these addict of Asoka in Sanskrit, the written Buddha traditions in Pali and those found in Srilanka are the best sources of Mauryan history. His unique method of attracting the attention of the general public also depicts his good intentions and sincerity in reaching out to his subjects.

The strange and mysterious fact is that all those commands, reforms, and principles engraved on the boulders and pillars indicate that he was a Buddhist, but there is no direct acknowledgement from him to this effect. Instead of calling his faith as Buddhism he calls is Dharama (Religion).

Asoka lived a pious and philanthropic life free from political moves and deceipts, yet he did not denounce his throne (like his grandfather). Instead he utilized his supreme authority to bring peace, harmony, and friendship to the neighbors and justice and care to his subjects. The Sanskrit and Pali

74 narrators state his doors were always open for his subjects, chiefly the poor and needy. He spent most of his time for the benefit and welfare of his people. He was the first Indian ruler interested in social welfare of his subjects. His government got roads constructed throughout the Empire with shady trees planted on both sides. Dispensaries and hospitals were opened both for humans and animals. Inns were constructed near the roads, for the benefit of the caravans. The tradition of having Inns by roadside was started initially by him (which was followed by many kings and rulers afterwards).

Historians place Asoka amongst those great rulers, who personally spent a virtuous, steadfast, religious life, and sent a message of peace and love to the world.

His reign was that of tolerance, equality, fraternity, prosperity, progress and peace, which prevailed throughout his rule.

However his death in 232 BC saw downfall in all that he had achieved. His successors were incapable of securing the vast Empire from disaster. His son and grandson fought for supremacy amongst themselves, and in a short span of time the great Empire was divided between them.

With the unity shattered the military powers were affected adversely. As they weakened the neighboring forces pounced upon them. The powerful tribes invaded from the north and west, the Greeks of Bactria took advantage and also invaded. Soon the Mauryan rulers succumbed and an end came to the Mauryan Rule.

The Greek Government of Bactria:

After the demise of Alexander, an independent Greek state was established in Bactria. As opportunity arose they attacked Kabul, Qandahar and Punjab, and making Kabul their capital, ruled the region for two centuries. They tried to influence Indians with their Greek culture and civilization but failed.

Russian Tribes and Kushan Dynasty:

In 100BC the Savage Russian Tribes of Sacae race invaded India, and overthrew the Greek rulers. Soon they were followed by Yuhy tribe, who originally were inhabitants of Chinese Turkestan, but were pushed put by Huns. From their homeland crossing the Gobi desert, they reached Bactria and attacked the Sacae rulers of Balkh and captured it.

This Yohy tribe branched out in five tribes in 30 AD and one of them, the Kushan clan, due to their superior intellectual powers and leadership qualities, over-powered the other four branches of the clan and laid the foundation of Kushan Dynasty. At the end of the first century AD, we find them in control, of the region from Bactria to Punjab in India.

Kanishka was the most powerful and famous ruler of this clan. He ruled for 25 years from 100AD to 125AD. He conquered Kashmir, Magdha, Valleys of River Indus and Ganges, Malwa and Gujrat on one side and crossing the difficult route of Pameer Plateau he reached Kashgar, Yarqand and China. With the conquest of the Chinese border region his Empire exceeded in size all other ancient Empires of this region.

He founded the city of Peshawar and, made it his capital due to its central geographical location in his Empire.

Kanishka and Buddhism:

Kanishka was neither Aryan nor Indian. Reaching India he made it his homeland, he declared Sanskrit, the popular language of the area, his sate language. Besides, he declared Buddhism as the State Religion. During his rule Buddhism consisted of two sects:

1. Hinayana: They believed that the difference between a common man and Buddha was that he gained the Spiritual Status due to his rigorous abstinence and meditations. Hence worshipping him as a deity was unlawful and incorrect. Gautama Buddha himself had preached against idol- worship, and defied all rituals related to idol-worship, sacrifices, offerings and superstitions. This theology of Hinayana became popular in Thailand, Myanmar, Srilanka and Malaysia and spread amongst the Buddhists there.

2. Mahayana: They believed that Buddha was an incarnation of God and worshipping his deities was lawful and correct. Believing in this theology magnificent temples were built, and were adorned with idols of Buddha.

Thus the real teachings of Buddha got confused between the conflict of these two sects.

Kanishka was a follower of the Mahayana sect, that is why this sect spread in India, China, Tibet, Korea and Japan.

The situation in India was different, as this region had a long history of idol-worship with a long line of deities. Aryans who were worshippers of nature had also adopted idol-worship after they settled down in India.

Since the time of Gautama Buddha to the time of Kanishka i.e, a period of about 600 years was sufficiently long to establish roots of Buddhism in India. But this did not happen.

Instead idol-worship flourished, the temple doors always were open for devotees. The high Caste Brahmins, in their hearts were against the principles of Buddhism. So instead of an open conflict they worked on a planned strategy. Soon Buddha too was made a deity as an “Incarnation of Lord Vishnu”. His idols were placed in Hindu Temples, along with their own gods and goddesses. Thus silently but cleverly Buddhism in India got strongly influenced by Hinduism. Its identity also got muddled. As soon as the influence of Buddhist kings faded, Hinduism sprang back to it's old glory. 76

Aryans in Persia:

The New Lexicon Present day Iran was called Persia in the past. Connected to Persian Gulf was Webster's Dictionary southern Persia, north-western area was called Media and the northern side of Page: 748 the Persian Gulf and Turan was called Eilaam.

Since 4000 BC the city of Eilaam had existed, but it's rulers were defeated by the Assyrians of Nineveh (642-639 BC) and city was annexed to their Empire.

The eastern part of Persia adjacent to Afghanistan was still uninhabited till 2000 BC. Historians Ameer Ali and Rawlinson state that the descendents of Japheth s/o NoahA, who called themselves Aryans came to this part between 1500BC to 1000BC, along the banks of the famous Persian River Halmund. It was a vast plain as large as Indus Valley spreading up to river Tigris. It was this very region where the messenger of God Zoroastrian came and Cyrus the Great laid the foundations of the Achaemenide Dynasty. Cyrus the Great is called Dhulqarnayn in the Holy Quran.

Cyrus expanded his Empire, on the eastern shores of Persian Gulf towards present day Turkey and Baluchistan (in Pakistan), in the west towards the borders of Egypt, in the north towards the foot hills of Alburz mountains, and in the south as far as Arabia. Egypt was afterwards conquered by his son.

This vast Empire was further strengthened and stabilized by his son in law Darius the Great (521-485 BC) and it remained unmatchable and unchallengeable in it's times. He established new cities, and his capital Persepolis near Shiraz (Iran). His magnificent Palace and throne known as “Jamshed Throne”: were the wonders of his times. Their ruins still attract tourists interested in ancient sites.

It is stated that the Achaemenide Empire was the most civilized in it's times. This great civilization was destroyed by Alexander's invasion after three centuries of its establishment. The adventurous expeditions of Alexander played havoc with the countries he conquered. The western and Greek historians praise his war policies, his horsemanship, his great military acumen, yet the fact remains that he was also a master of disaster and destruction, a reality not appreciated by many historians.

Spirit of Islam His tyranny and personal atrocities committed against the lands he invaded are Syed Ameer Ali realities that his fans admit reluctantly. Page: 27 The total pillage at Saur, the inhuman act of putting Collars on the prisoners of war and slaves, the riots of Bactria and India, blood-shed and merciless execution of Clytes, the plunder and ravaging of the Achaemenide Empire, wreckage of its capital Persepolis, the burning of the great Jamshed throne for the appeasement and pleasure of prostitutes. The couching of the splendid libraries, turning books into ashes, and turning the magnificent city of Babylon into ruins, are acts for which history has no excuse or apology.

The invasion of Alexander in 334 BC not only destroyed the Persian civilization but also dealt a severe blow to the two faiths of the region, Zoroastrian and Israelites, instead it promoted forcefully the Greek mythology. 77

The situation worsened when his sudden death brought a struggle of power among his generals and his empire broke down into three divisions:

1. Cassander announced his kingship in Macedonia. 2. Ptolemy captured Egypt. 3. Seleucus took control of western Asia.

Seleucus established his rule over Persia too. From 323 BC to 187 BC, Persia was under his reign. During those times as Justice Ameer Ali puts it:

Spirit of Islam 1. Jews and Zoroastrians were either exiled, or lived in deprivation of all social Syed Ameer Ali rights. Page: 26 2. The laws introduced by Seleucus tried to change and destroy the Persian culture and civilization systematically in a planned manner. 3. Antiochus one of the rulers of this dynasty, (titled Apepinus), tortured Jews and Zoroastrians to such an extent that they started calling him “Ahrman” “god of evil” or “Satan”.

Parthian Dynasty:

Mithradates a ruler and chief of Parthia, a smaller state in the north of Persia, in the 2nd century BC suddenly took control of central Persia and defeated the Seleucus king. He now established his dynasty on the throne, making Parthia an Empire.

The northern tribes were savage barbarians; they brought new wave of cruelty, tyranny and oppression for the Persians. Their arrival brought a swift downfall to Zoroastrianism, and birth of a new faith (Majusi), which was a combination of Greek and Zoroastrianism. Zoroastrianism itself under went a change and Now it became purely a faith of Fire worshippers.

The Parthians ruled till 225AD and founded three great cities.

1. Seleucia. 2. Ctesiphon. 3. Extabana.

Parthia and Silk Route:

Among the famous trade routes connecting western countries to eastern, the most famous one started from the north of Persian Gulf (Susa) and reached china passing through Parthia, from where it branched out towards Afghanistan and India. The famous Chinese Silk, gold, silver, gems, diamonds and Indian spices were traded through this route, which was also known as the Silk Route.

The Parthians made the route safe and maintenance was excellent which brought great progress and prosperity to the region during their reign.

The History of the This was one of the reasons that because of their power the Roman Emperor World. Caesar Augustus had brokered peace treaty with them in 20 BC. This pact of peace remained in vogue for a century. Then Caesar Trajan (98-117 AD) 78

attacked Parthia and captured the city of Ctesiphon. However his successor Caesar Hadrian returned the conquered land and peace was restored.

Despite this the Parthians lost their foot hold in this region, and their weakness brought rebellion and revolt from the original inhabitants of the region. This revolt soon saw the outsiders being pushed out from Persia.

In 226AD Ardashir the grandson of a powerful Persian chief Sassan, rebelled and killed the last Parthian king. He ascended the throne with a new dynasty, Sassanid Dynasty; and the country got a new name “The Sassanid Empire” (after the name of his grandfather).

The Sassanid Empire of Persia:

Spirit of Islam Ardashir Balkan I (226-240AD) ascension to the throne, brought a revival to Syed Ameer Ali the national and political life of Persia. However the detracted condition of the Page: 27 social, cultural and religious lives uplifting was beyond the powers of the rulers. The ancient literature and religious teachings were alive in Books but had died in the hearts and soul of the public.

Ardashir declared Zoroastrianism as the state religion, but now it was not the same faith which was brought by Prophet Zoroaster, it had undergone many changes; it was not the same which the Achaemenide rulers followed as state religion. During the five centuries (334 BC to 226 AD) Zoroastrianism had become a faith of Fire worshippers, and the Sassanid rulers now accepted it in its new form and beliefs.

The History of the Ardashir during his 34 years of power improved the administration and World. governance of the Empire. He won back the city of Clesphon and the land Page: 226-227 between two canals, which had been conquered by the Roman Emperor in 196AD. The city had been burnt down by the Romans. Ardashir and his successors at the outset of the 3rd century AD, made the Yamani tribes their allies (these were the immigrants from Yemen) and providing them all aid, helped them to settle on the western bank of Euphrates River. Providing them with facilities, privileges and aid they made them so strong, that they became their border-guards. Thus the border was secured by the Sassanid rulers.

After Ardashir his son Shahpur I (241-272 AD) became the ruler. He conquered Antakia, Syria, Daura. He attacked Rome and in 260 AD succeeded in arresting and killing the Roman Emperor Valerian. He invaded the eastern neighbors too, and defeated the Kushan kings many a times. The Kushan Dynasty ruled India from 100 AD to 300 AD and Raja Krishna the famous ruler of this region belonged to Kushan dynasty.

It is a rare coincidence that two Emperors of Rival Empires have been contemporaries in history for 34 years, both having similar capabilities and Stature. In the 6th century AD the Persian Emperor Naushirwan Adil (531-579AD) and Byzantinian Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD) were contemporaries rulers of vast powerful Empires. Naushirwan gained fame as a just ruler who

79 brought stability to his Empire whereas Justinian is known for his love of knowledge, legal acumen, abilities of legislation, and his capabilities of governance and administration. Yet the misfortune was that their successors lacked these qualities, and both the Empires never did have rulers of the same caliber and stature.

Kasra or Khusrau:

The real name of Naushirwan was Anaushirwan Khusrau I .The famous Persian poet Firdausi in his Shahnama, for the sake of rhythm of his verses changed it to Naushirwan, thereafter Khusrau the later part of his name, become the title of Sassanid rulers. In Arabic it became Kasraa.

Hormuz (579-590 AD):

Naushirwan was succeeded by his son Hormuz; he did not prove a worthy successor of his father. His incompetence brought alround weakness in governance. His neighbors became aggressive. The Turks on one side and Romans on the other, attacked his borders and tried to capture the bordering areas, but failed chiefly due to his powerful and wise advisor and minister Behram. He helped the Emperor in warding off the danger. But instead of appreciating this help, Hormuz mistreated him to such an extent that he revolted and assassinated the emperor whose son Khusrau Perwez fled the country and took refuge with the Caesar Maurice in Rome.

Khusrau Parwez (592-628 AD):

The revolt of Behram made the son of the Emperor flee the country and take shelter with the Byzantinian Emperor Maurice (582-602AD). Maurice not only provided shelter, but declared him as his adopted son and friend. Providing him military help the Emperor succeeded in winning back the Empire for Khusrau Perwez, who was able to reclaim his throne. Thus a friendly relationship developed between the two Empires; however this phase lasted only for 12 years. The Byzantinian Emperor and his family were killed in revolt, by the rebelling commander Phocas of the Byzantinian army.

To avenge the death of his friend and benefactor, Khusrau attacked Phocas the new Byzantinian ruler in 603 AD. The fight continued for seven years, when in 610AD he succeeded in killing Phocas in the battle-field, thus the death of the Emperor was finally avenged.

Still Khusrau was not satisfied, his forces advanced and he reached Syria in 611 AD, took Damascus in 614 AD and in 615 AD conquering Jerusalem set it on fire. The whole city was put on flames, the buildings were demolished, the religious sites worshipping places were destroyed and their sanctity abused. Thousands of Christians were slaughtered. The Holy Cross on which according to Christian belief Christ was crucified was carried away by him to Ctesiphon.

This defeat of Roman Empire by the Sassnide ruler Khusrau II is quoted by Quran as:

Al-Quran The Romans have been conquered in neighboring land. But having been Surah Rome-30 conquered they will conquer in a few years (less than ten). Verses: 2-4

This strange game of victory and defeat was being played between the Persians and Romans thousands of miles away from Arabia, in the region north-west of Jerusalem and north-east of Ctesiphon. The Sassanid Emperor of Persia had given this fight a religious color, as if it was a battle between Christianity and Zoroastrianism and not between political rivals. As the flames of destruction blazed, apparently it seemed that Christian Rome will never succeed in defeating the Fire-worshipping Persia.

Precisely at these historic times, in Mecca the holy prophet MohammadS was preaching the message of Islam for the last 5 years but Arabs were constantly defying and refuting the prophet and his message. When the news of Persian victories reached Mecca the Arabs (non-believers and idol- worshippers) were extremely happy as they felt a close affinity with the fire-worshippers of Persia. On the other hand the Muslims were worried and aggrieved at the defeat of Christians, the worshippers of the same God as Muslims.

In this atmosphere of ecstasy and sorrow God revealed Quranic verses 30:2-4 to the Prophet with the prediction that “The Romans will over-come the Persian in a period of less than ten years”.

The Arab non-believers celebrating the victories of their brothers (of faith) heard this, and turned away mocking and taunting with contempt. But this was Divine Promise bound to be fulfilled.

Historical events relate that Caesar Heraclius, after facing defeat near his capital Constantinople in 616 AD, sent a message of “peace at all cost”. This offer and proposal was contemptuously rejected by Khusrau.

Heraclius now waited nervously, for the final defeat, in his besieged city. But for unknown reasons Khusrau lifted the siege and moved towards Egypt on a sudden urge to conquer it. His fight continued for two long years and in 619AD the whole of Egypt became a part of the Persian Empire.

This respite of two years was a God sent gift for Heraclius, who taking advantage, gathered the scattered strength of army.

God had provided him unlimited resources and he re-organized his naval fleet. Without much fun-fare he moved silently from Constantinople via Black Sea and reached Trebizond, from where he attacked the far back region of Persia in 622 AD. He returned swiftly back to Constantinople, giving no time to Khusrau Perwez to retaliate or fight back. In his capital he stayed back another year, during which full preparations were made for a major attack. He was financially helped by Arch Bishop of Roman Church who loaned him money. Then he made friendly treaties with the Turks and Avaris. In 623 AD he conquered Armenia and Azerbaijan where he totally destroyed the place of birth of Zoroaster i.e, Armea, and demolished the largest Fire-Temple.

While Christians achieved this victory over Fire-worshippers of Persia, the holy prophet MohammadS thwarted the first attack of Meccan idle-worshippers in the battle of Badar and defeated them in a do or die battle. Both these events happened during a span of ten years from the time verses 30:2-4 were revealed.

Continuous victories bought confidence to Heraclius who after four years of great preparations attacked Nineveh, conquering it he swiftly advanced towards the Persian capital.

He stalled at the outskirts of Ctesiphon, the apparent cause being fatigue of the long march from Rome, but it was Divine Will which controlled the Emperors actions. As stated in the verse 30:4, of the Holy Quran: “God is the imperative first and last. On that day believers will rejoice”. Rejoicing of believers is an indication of the victory of Muslims in the battle of Badar. Therefore as predicted in Quran, the Christian victory and the Muslim victory had to finally occur on the same day.

Incessant battles and blood-sheds of the two great Empires of the era, weakened them both to such an extent that the rulers were unable to control internal strife and insurgencies. They became an easy prey, as their defense weakened.

Whereas in the same era a small state in Medina (Arabia) was taking birth; and slowly was gaining strength. Despite the defeat at Badar, the Meccan infidels did not stop their opposition and desire to nip in the bud the new faith and its followers. As a result of this attitude two other battles that of Uhad and Trench were fought. Although the prophet desired peace as it was Divine Will but the enemy attitude did not let it happen. Ultimately the time for fulfillment of this desire came 4 years later when the Prophet signed the Peace Agreement of Hudaybiya.

The greatest result of this treaty was the peace of mind the prophet found to look beyond battles and fights. Taking advantage of the peaceful atmosphere he sent ambassadors to the countries outside Arabia with the Divine Message and an invitation for all to join the Message of Islam.

In 628 AD Khusrau Parwez received the message and invitation of Prophet MohammadS, at a time when he was under siege of the Roman army. Despite this his arrogance and pride had not abated. He looked down upon the messenger with a scorn and ordered him to read aloud the message in his court.

The order was carried out. and the message was read:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 In the name of Allah Page: 260-262 The most Benevolent and Merciful From His Prophet (Messenger), To, Khusrau (ruler of Persia). All salutations for that person who is willing to be guided and is ready to believe in Allah and His prophet, and is prepared to witness that: 1. God is One. He has sent me (Mohammad) as His Messenger (Prophet) so that I instill His Fear in the hearts of every living soul. Accept Islam and live in peace (safety). If not the whole burden of the Fire-worshippers will be on you”.

Hearing this Khusrau disdainfully said: “How dare he, my own slave, write thus to me”?

Uttering this he took the letter and tore it into pieces and threw out the emissary, Abdullah Bin Khajafa Shamy, the ambassador of the prophet, in utter humiliation.

Reaching Medina Abdullah narrated the whole episode before the prophet. Hearing it the Prophet uttered a small sentence which became a historical statement.

The Prophet said: “The Empire of Khusrau will be torn into pieces just as he tore my letter”.

Khusrau was not satisfied even after tearing the letter and insulting the ambassador, but he ordered the governor of Yemen, the nearest province of his Empire to Medina: “Send someone to arrest this new claimant of prophet-hood and produce him in my court”.

The governor of Yemen Baazan sent two persons to Medina to meet prophet (MohammadS). They conveyed the message in: “Emperor Khusrau Parwez has summoned you. If you will not be obeying his orders, then he will destroy you, and your country”.

The prophet replied firmly with full composure: “Khursau will be killed tonight. Return and tell Baazan that soon Islam and Muslim government will reach the capital of Khusrau”.

Both of Baazan's men returned to Yemen. As soon as the news of Khusrau's death reached Yemen, Baazan accepted Islam.

The second thing the prophet had spoken about was the fragmentation of Persian Empire just as its Emperor had torn his letter to pieces.

History proved that:

Tafheem-ul-Quran The son of Khusrau Parwez, Karadh II had imprisoned his father, and usurped Page: 728 the throne. He had declared peace with Caesar Heraclius, relinquishing his claim on conquered Roman territory. He also returned the Holy Cross to the Roman Emperor.

The famous Persian poet Nazami (6th century AD) writes in his balad Khusrau and Shireen, that she was an Armenian princess who loved Khusrau. The first wife of Khusrau was Maryam the daughter of the Roman Emperor Maurice. After her death Khusrau married Shireen.

Karadh II was the son of Maryam who arrested and imprisoned his father, usurped the throne and withdrew his claim from conquered Roman territory (conquered by his father) and returned both the territory and The Holy Cross to Heraclius. These were the Roman conditions of peace treaty which were complied upon by Karadh II.

The royalty and courtiers along with the general public despised peace on these conditions and protested. This conflict soon bred a revolution and the most important casualty was the execution of Khusrau Parwez in the prison in 628 AD.

Another son of Khusrau Shiruyiah, ascended the throne after killing all other claimant and would be heirs and his brothers. This slaughter of his own family upset him so much that he become insane and died three months after his horrible deed.

A young kid of seven years Ardashir son of Shiruyiah somehow survived, and the Sassanid chiefs and nobles made him their ruler. As conspiracies flourished soon Ardashir too was killed by a powerful chief Shahrbaraz on 9th June 630 AD. Forty days after the killing of the child king, Shahrbaraz too was killed.

Now not a single male member of the Sassanid dynasty survived, so the elders and courtiers made Poran Dukhta a daughter of Khusrau Parwez their Queen and ruler. She too ruled for a short span of one year and 4 months. Then a person named Feroz became the king. For only a month did he enjoy powers. After Feroz his sister Azarmi Dukht become the ruler, but was killed by a chief Rustam.

After this blood-shed of rulers, in 634AD a Sassanid prince was discovered. His, mother had hidden him and his identity from the murderers of Sassanid family. So he became the ruler in 634AD as Yazadjard III, the last of this dynasty.

From 628AD to 634AD within a period of 6 years the great Sassanid Dynasty and the magnificent Empire was divided into pieces. Various provinces were ruled by independent Chieftains and Yazadjard III was only a symbolic Emperor.

Thus half of the holy prophet (MohammadS) prophesy was fulfilled in 6 years. The powerful Empire of Khusrau Parwez was torn into pieces. Then came the other part of the prophecy: “Soon Islamic government will reach your door steps”.

Saad Bin Abi WaqasR in 336AD attacked Qadsia and Madyan and after conquering them the Muslim forces reached the the capital of Khusrau Parwez within a short time then this part of the prophecy was also fulfilled.

Chapter - 2 Arabia (Location and Size)

Arabia the largest Peninsula of the world is situated in the south-west of Asia. It is 1500 miles in length, 1300 miles in width and its area is 120,000sq miles. Arabia is the hottest land on the earth, it has no rivers and the three largest deserts of the world are situated here.

1. Nifud: it is in the north, adjacent to the Syrian desert and has Kaldia in its western and eastern borders. These deserts are called by the Arabs "Nafud". 2. Danha: This desert is in the center of the Peninsula and touches the borders of Rabal Khali. 3. Rabal Khali: it comprises of nearly 1/4th part of the Peninsula, and is the largest desert. It is desolate and completely a waste land, hostile to human existence, hence uninhabited.

Hijaz:

The mountainous region spreading from Palestine to the Suez Canal along the Red Sea shores from the north to the south is called "Hijaz" by the Arabs. This range reaches as far as Yemen and is known by the same name as that of the land it passes through. These mountains are near the sea at some locations but at others they are at a distance from the Sea. Many Oasis are found in the hilly tracts while the rest is barren.

This mountainous terrain spreads in north-western part of the Peninsula (till Yemen) and its central part is that special land of Hijaz, wherein lies the city of the Prophet, Yathrab or Madina-tul- Nabi.

1. Arabia Petraea: In the north of Hijaz lies the hilly tract known as "Arabia Petraea". Here were situated the ancient kingdoms of Edomites and Midianites ('Aad and Thamud). They dug the hills and carved out living quarters.

Prophet SalehA was sent towards this race of Thamud. But they in the words of Quran:

Al-Quran The people of Al-Hijr denied our apostles and though We had given them our Surah Al-Hijr-15 Signs, they turned away from them. They used to hew dwellings in the Verse 80-84 mountains to live in security. But they were seized by the mighty blast towards the morning. And all that they had done for security availed them nothing.

Due to their sins the whole nation was wiped out from earth as a punishment. The ruins of these great dwellings still exist between the city of Medina and Tabuk as a sign of admonition for the passers bye.

2. Tihama: it is in the south of Hijaz, where lie the cities of Mecca and Taif and the port of Jeddah. God chose the land of His House, the Ka’ba, in the city of Mecca. 3. Asyr: The area in the south of Tihama spread as far as Yemen's borders is called "Asyra".

The plateau of Najad:

The Plateau of Najad spreading from east of the Hijaz mountains, covers the centre of Arabia.

On the borders of Yemen it is called Najad-al-Yemen, while in the north it is simply named Najad. The mountains dividing these two parts are called "Yamama".

In the north of Najad is the Syrian Desert, which is now not a part of Arabia, but since the ancient times it is inhabited by the Arab Bedouins (gipsys).

In the north of Najad are the deserts of Iraq, which borders the banks of river Euphrates, here too Arab gypsy tribes live.

In the south of Najad is the desert of Dhana, which separates Najad from Hazar Maut and Mahra. In the southern part of this desert Dhana, before the borders of Amman and Hazar Maut was the land known by the Arabs as Ahqaf-ul-lumal. Here lived the race "''Aad", in 2000BC, they had built the magnificent city of Irum.

As Quran says:

Al-Quran Have you not seen what your Lord did to the 'Aad of Erum with lofty pillars Surah Al-Fajr-89 (erected as signp.osts in the desert) the like of whom were never created in the Verses 6-8 realm.

Present day Yemen is in the western corner of Arabia. It has Red Sea in the west, Hazarr Muat in the east, Hijaz in the north and Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean in the south. In the east of the Hazar Maut is Mahara.

In the south-east of the Peninsula lies Oman, in the north Bahrain, which is on the Shores of Persian Gulf.

Climate and Soil of Arabia:

The major part of Arabia is a desert full of sand and rocks; the soil of a large region is barren, hostile to cultivation.

However the deserts are spotted with Oasis where dates are grown in abundance and are a major production of the land. The date's gardens are a major source of income for the Arabs.

The growth of vegetables and fruits totally depends on seasonal rains on the land, where the average rainfall is very low; and there are no rivers or streams in the vast arid land. Wells are dug 86 for water. However there are some streams in the Oasis, where the cities and towns have been established. The coastal region of Yemen is fertile, where the average rainfall is sufficient to make the land green. The climate in winter is dry and cold, in summer is hot and dry.

The Arabs:

As far as the habitation of the Arabs is concerned, it can be categorized into two distinct types. 1. Beduins or Nomads: These are people who live in the desert in tents or semi-mud houses. They dig wells or obtains water from the desert springs. When the springs and wells dry out, they wander around in search of water and fodder for herds of goats and sheep. Wherever they find both of these they settle down for some period. They are called nomads. For traveling they use camels, which form their greatest asset besides goats and sheep. The City - Dwellers or The Urbans:

In the valleys and oasis where water is in abundance, permanent settlements have been established. These settlements with the passage of time have become sprawling cities, heavily populated. Here both trade and farming has brought prosperity to the farmers and traders.

Arab Nation and its Tribes:

Arab historians have divided the nation of the Peninsula into three groups: 1. Arab Badia:

Historically this group includes the people who settled down in Syria and Hijaz after NoahA's flood, nearly 2000 BC to 3000 BC. These descendents of NoahA's clan, gradually multiplied and formed nations like "'Aad" and "Thamud", about whom Quran says:

'Aad:

Al-Quran "(God warned) do you wonder that a warning has come to you from your Lord Surah A'raf-47 through a man who is one of you and warns you? Remember God made you Verse: 69-72 leaders after the people of Noah and gave you a greater increase in your stature. So think of the favors of God; you may haply be blessed. They answered, have you come to say to us that we should worship only one God, abandoning those our ancestors worshipped? If so bring on us what you threaten us with if what you say is true. The prophet replied, you have already been beset with 87

punishment and wrath of God. Why dispute with me about names invented by you and your ancestors for which no sanction was sent down? So wait (what is to come), I am waiting with you. Then We saved him and those on his side by our Grace, and destroyed to the very last those who rejected Our Signs and denied the Truth".

Thamud:

Al-Quran "We sent to Thamud their brother Saleh. 'O people' said he, 'worship God, for Surah A'raf-47 you have no other god but He. Clear proof has come to you already from your Verses: 73-79 Lord, and this she-camel of God is the token for you. Leave her free to graze upon God's earth, and do not molest her lest a grievous punishment should befall you. Remember how you were made leaders after the people of 'Aad and were settled on the land so that you could construct on the plains palaces and carve dwellings out of mountains. So think of the favours of God and do not act with corruption in the land'. The chiefs among the people who were arrogant towards the weak ones among them who believed, asked: 'Do you really know that Saleh has been sent by the Lord'? they said: 'Indeed we believe in the message he has brought'. Those who were arrogant answered: 'We do not believe in what you believe'. Then they hamstrung the She-camel and rebelled against the command of the Lord, and said: 'Bring, O Saleh, on us the affliction you promised, if you are one of the sent ones'. Then they were seized by an earthquake and lay overturned on the ground in their homes in the morning. Saleh turned away from them and said: 'O my people, I conveyed to you the message of my Lord and warned you, but you do not like those who wish you well'.”

History bears witness that both these races faced annihilation. Quran provides the insight that they had refuted and defied the great prophets of God, HudA and SalehA, which brought upon them the Divine Chastisement. The Arabs call them "The Annihilated Nations".

Details of these nations can be seen in the first volume of Prophets of God and the Nations of the World". 2. Arab al-Ariba:

Spirit of Islam Justice Ameer Ali in his Spirit of Islam divides the Arab nations according to Page: 57 Caussin de Perceval: (a). Arab-al-Araba.

(b). Arab-al-Mutarba. (c). Arab-al-Mastarba. Seerat-un-Nabi However the division quoted by Maulana Shibly, in his Seerat-un-Nabi is Page: 63 regarded as more authentic.

According to it also, Arab-al-Araba is the second group in which are included those tribes who were descendents of Qahtan and Yaqtan Bin Abr Bin Arfixd Bin Sam Bin NoahA, whose motherland was Bactria's Plateau. This was the land where after the storm, NoahA and the survivors settled down. When their population increased, after 2500 BC, Sam son of NoahA's descendents migrated towards the deltas of Euphrates and Tigris rivers,

where they established the city of Ur. Out of the three sons of Abr Bin Arfixd one called Fulj settled down there, whereas his other two sons Qahtan and Yaqtan moved on in the south of (later day) Kaldia Empire and entered Arabian Peninsula. They did not stop there but moved on in the south west until they reached present day Yemen, where they established their Kingdom.

Centuries after this migration from their native land, when Yarab in the progeny of Qahtan became the ruler, tribes had formed into nations. Deriving its name from this ruler Yarab, the Peninsula became Arabia and the people Arabd. After Yarab his son Yashab established his capital city Marab. Abdul Shams the son of Yashab ascended the throne and took the title of Saba, which means "The Conqueror of Lands". The very title suggests that he had expanded his kingdom through the conquest of adjacent lands. He started a new religion of "Sun Worship", (his name Shams which means Sun) was relevant to his belief. Prior to this his people were monotheists and had no concept of worshipping sun, moon or stars. NoahA lived among them for a long time preaching monotheism. Quran says:

Al-Quran We sent Noah to his people, and he lived with them a thousand years minus Surah Ankabut-29 fifty. Then they were caught by the deluge for they were evil. But We saved Verse: 14-15 him and those with him in the ark, and made it a sign for the creatures of the world.

And Torah says:

The Birth At the advent of the storm NoahA was 600 years old. After the storm he lived 9-10-11 amongst his people for 350 years. His son Sam lived for 600 years, whereas Sam's son Affixed died at the age of 450, then the lineage continued from

Sam's grandson Falj to Abr, all had long lives, thus the era of the just four A generations of Noah compasses a period of centuries, and all were descendents of the same prophet and were monotheist, guiding their people to the path of the righteous.

Anbiya-e-Karam The races which existed after the storm followed the preaching of Islam By: Maulana Abul (religion of God preached by all his prophets) as they were the direct Kalam Azad descendents in the progeny of NoahA. They followed the faith of their fore- Page: 105 fathers. All those who inherited the faith, believed in it and guided others towards it. They were all branches of NoahA's progeny and his followers and preached monotheism .

This means that after the storm these descendents of and followers of prophet NoahA took with them their faith and beliefs wherever they migrated and settled down. They all were followers of the Shariah of NoahA. They followed this path for centuries, as families expanded into clans, tribes and then nations. 89

Amongst these people in (2500 BC to 2000 BC) was a nation settled in central Arabia, which was a progeny of Irum Bin Sam Bin NoahA, and is known in history after the name of its ancestor 'Aad as the nation of 'Aad. God blessed them, and their civilization rose to magnificent heights. Almighty made them "Rulers on Earth" after the race of NoahA. These people settled in the green and fertile lands of Ahqaf-al-Rammal.

After 'Aad were destroyed the nation of Thamud was blessed with Divine blessings who settled in the fertile land of northern Arabia, the land of Al-Hijr.

Quran has given a detailed account of those nations in its Surah A'raf and Hud. The descriptions in this Surah provide details that these nations deviated from the teachings of Prophet NoahA (after 2000 BC).

The study of Torah (chapter History) and The Wall Chart of World History (reprinted in 1997 AD) indicate an interesting fact that deviations from NoahA's teachings perhaps started from 2500- 2000 BC and later. Deviations like worship of Pharaohs as gods, construction of pyramids, claim of Divinity by Namrud in Mesopotamia (present day Iraq), the start of idol worship in Canaan and Phoenicia, the appearance of June goddess and Jupiter god in Greece etc. etc.

According to this study, we also come to know that the descendents of Irum Bin Sam Bin NoahA arrived and settled in the Arabian Peninsula during the same era i.e, around 2000 BC. For centuries they followed the faith of NoahA and enjoyed the Blessings of their Lord, but later the Messengers of God were defied by them and monotheism was mocked at. As a result, Divine Chastisement befell them and they were wiped out from the surface of the earth. They were the famous nations of ‘Aad and Thamud.

After them the second group which arrived in the Arabian Peninsula was that of Qahtan and Yaqtan Bin Abr Bin Arfixed Bin Sam Bin NoahA, they were on the move for centuries and finally settled down in Yemen.

Torah The Birth The Torah gives a detailed account of the progeny of Sam Bin NoahA. Chapter: 10 Verses: 30-50

History of the Arab Out of the twelve sons of Qahtan, Jerah and Hazarmaut are famous in history. by: Philip H. Hitti In the Arabian history they are known as the founders of the first group of Page: 10-34 rulers of Arabia. The region they ruled adopted the names of Hazarmaut and Arabia after them as both these sons laid the foundations of their kingdoms. The areas of Mahrah and Al-Asgr too were parts of Hazarmaut.

Amongst the descendents of Sam Bin NoahA, Abdul Shams Bin Jerah Bin Qahtan perhaps was the first ruler under whom the worship of sun and stars started. His title was Saba which means conqueror of many lands. After him his country was also called Saba and its' people, the nation of Saba. It is the same nation about which Jesus Christ spoke in one of his sermons.

Bible Methew The queen of the southern corner of the world came to evaluate and test the Chapter: 12 wisdom of (prophet) SolomonA. Verse: 43 90

This Queen who's named was Bilquees came to the capital of prophet SolomonA (965 BC-925 BC), Jerusalem, and there stayed as a guest.

After which:

Torah: The kings chapter: She returned to her country along with her retinue (servants). 10, Verse: 5 History: Chapter- 9 Verse: 1-2

The episode of SolomonA and Queen Saba is stated in Surah Naml of Queen in verses 20 to 44. (For details see Volume-I of Prophets of God and the Nations of the World).

Briefly, the nation of Saba reached the Zenith of its civilization around 1000 BC and enjoyed this supremacy and splendor for many centuries. It therefore looks likely that the tribes of Banu Qahtan had settled in Yemen around 1200BC. Quranic verses indicate that:

The kingdoms of Queen Saba and King SolomonA (the prophet) were at their glorious peak of culture and civilization, power and authority, prosperity and progress, wealth and grandeur, at the same time.

The present day Syria, Palestine and Israel were the parts of kingdom of king SolomonA. His naval fleets held sway in the Mediterranean and Red Sea.

About Queen Saba's kingdom, not much is known about its borders, but it had influence over a vast region of Arabian Peninsula right from Yemen to Syria. It had trade relations along this route with other nations.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 The kingdom of Saba was also called "the nation of merchants and traders" in Page: 568 the annals of history. Amongst the ancient kingdoms it was famous for its wealth, so much so that Greek historians regarded it as the wealthiest nation of

its times. Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 Quoting a Hadith of Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) with reference to Imam Page: 195 Ahmed Bin Hunbal, Abne Jareer Tabari, Ibne Abi Hashim, Ibne Abdul Bar and Tirmizi state that: "The nation of Saba consisted of venerable and revered tribes, like Kindah, Humain, Asha, Naim, Mazhaj, Anmar (having two branches Mazhaj and Bajeela) Amla, Jazam, Lakhan and Ghusan.

The Quranic verses in Surah Naml, also indicate that they were sun-worshippers:

Al-Quran She and her people worship the sun in place of God, for Satan has made their Surah Naml-27 deeds look attractive to them and has turned them away from the path. Verse: 24

Quran also states that she gave up sun-worship and submitted to the Lord of SolomonA:

Al-Quran She was invited to enter the court. When she saw it, she took it for a sheet of Surah Naml-27 water, and (pulling up her skirts) uncovered her legs. (Solomon) told her: 91

Verese: 44 "This is paved with tiles of glass". She said: "I have wronged myself, and I submit to the Lord of all worlds with Solomon".

History bears witness that from this time onwards till the advent of Jesus ChristA the people of Saba remained monotheists and enjoyed Divine Blessings and prosperity.

But in times to come the people of Saba also deviated from the path of Truth and headed for downfall and calamity. Quran, very briefly summarizes this long history in the following five verses:

Al-Quran There was a sign for the people of Saba in their habitations. Two gardens, on Surah Saba-34 the right and left. (And they were told): "Eat of what your Lord has given you Verse: 15 and be thankful. Fair is your land and forgiving your Lord.

Al-Quran Between them and the cities We had blessed, We placed towns along the Surah Saba-34 highway and made them stages on the journey, saying "Travel between them in Verse: 18 safety by day or by night". The location of the cities was for the benefit of both rich and poor. But after some time the rich started disliking the dwelling of poor in their vicinity.

Al-Quran (The rich said): "O Lord, make the distance between the stages of our journeys Surah Saba-34 longer". But (by doing so) they wronged themselves. So We turned them into Verse: 19 bygone tales and dispersed them, scattered in all directions. Surely there are signs in this for those who endeavor and are grateful. The calamity which struck them was the bursting of their big dam which flooded and destroyed the whole region.

Al-Quran But they turned away. So We let loose on them the inundation of the (dyke of) Surah Saba-34 Al-Arim, replacing their gardens with two other gardens which bore nothing Verse: 16-17 but bitter guard and tamarisks and a few sparse lote trees. That is how We requited them for their ingratitude.

A long history of about 1000 years relating to the rise and fall of the Saba nation is beautifully summed up in these afore-mentioned five verses of the holy Quran.

A picture of the glorious civilization of Saba is presented here by the holy Quran. A civilization which existed 1600 years ago, and which must be remembered for guidance and learning lessons. It speaks about their rise with their monotheist beliefs, worship of their Lord, their intelligence and acknowledgement of Divine Blessings. The same people then fall in the abyss of nonentity due to their injustice and ingratitude towards their Lord and His Blessings. What remained of them now are the ruins of their magnificent cities and the Arabian proverb "Scattered like the people of Saba".

The ruins of their cities were brought to light in the 19th century by German and French archaeologist's discoveries in Yemen. The tablets and various inscriptions discovered there provide an evidence of the rise and fall of this nation and a proof of Quranic statements relating to them.

In light of the Quranic verses and the archeological discoveries what we have come to know is that, this race of Saba was a blessed one; God had made their lands fertile, which lay between green valleys and hills, sufficient rainfall brought streams gushing down the mountains. They were blessed 92 with wisdom, intelligence and strong physique which helped them in utilizing these God sent gifts. They constructed dams and laid down a splendid irrigation system. They prospered with abundance and affluence and gearing up trade relations with neighboring nations they soon became famous.

During the reign of Abdul Shams the whole nation turned towards sun worship, monotheism gave way to polytheism. Divine respite continued, till the reign of Queen Saba (Bilquees) when the whole nation again became monotheists and entered the folds of the Divine religion, Islam which means submission to Allah). God bestowed His Bounties on them. The water stored by the dam was their life-line as they were an agricultural nation.

The healthy environment and life sustaining winds, brought health and disease-free atmosphere. All this helped them in forming a crime-free, healthy and progressive society.

They established their trade centers in Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Palestine and Jordan. Not only this but crossing the Arabian Sea in the south, and Red Sea in west, they traded with Eastern Africa and India. Their exports were fruit and spices.

On their trade routes many cities and settlements sprang up spreading their influence from Yemen to Syria and Palestine.

Whatever was provided them by their environment and nature was taken advantage of by their wisdom, acumen, and intelligence. About two of their famous trade routes Quran speak about in Surah Al-Hijr (15), verses 76 and 79, namely “Sabeel-ul-Muqueem” and “Imam-e-Mubeen”.

T.J. Amaud The settlements established by these people at precisely calculated distances, Journal Asiaique have been discovered by the Archaeologists, and their ruins can seen by visitors. January, 1874.

The nation of Saba known as "Nation of Merchants" followed the Divine Path and remained Monotheists for centuries. The juncture when they deviated from this path is not known. Perhaps gradually gratitude was replaced by ingratitude, courtesy by discourtesy, modesty by arrogance, politeness by rudeness and humbleness by pride. Thus a civilized and just nation became uncivilized and unjust. They forgot their God and soon Satan captured their souls and hearts.

Quran says:

Al-Quran Surah Saba-34 "But they turned away". Verse: 16

This shift and deflection from Monotheism was so swift and encompassed the whole nation, right from the rulers, chieftains and royalty to all who mattered. The Peasants, laborers and other commoners soon were affected by this change and the powerful in the land started hating the very existence of poor. Their humble abodes near the magnificent palatial mansions of rich became a source of irritation. They now desired a distance between their splendid cities and the ordinary people and so the affluent wanted the poor to leave their cities and to have new settlements far away from their popular trade-routes and thus, making the life of poor miserable and difficult.

Al-Quran The proud rich demanded: Surah Saba-34 "O Lord, make the distance between the stages of our journeys longer". Verse: 19

This demand was a result of their typical mindset and arrogant ways failing to realize that such a demand will be oppressive and afflictive and in the long run against their own interests. By showing their hatred and unjust treatment towards the weaker members of their nation, they had actually invited Divine Wrath.

Interpreters state that despite this waywardness and wickedness, God provided them respite for many centuries. But when they did not mend their ways they were surrounded from all sides, as Divine Chastisement arrived for this proud spiteful nation.

Rains and Dams both were their life-line. On them depended all their prosperity and wealth. In their ignorance they thought that they were well secured against the natural disasters of draughts and famines with a good control on their water resources. Their arrogance led them astray.

Divine Wrath and vengeance started with drought, seasonal rains stopped, then desert rats started weakening the very foundations of the Dam. The holes dug by rats weakened the dam walls. then the drought ended and ceaseless rains, started, flooding the valleys. Soon the water in the Dam reached danger-level and under the relentless downpour the Dam busted. The whole region was inundated and the magnificent cities were wiped out.

Commentary on the It is estimated that till 120BC the foundations of the large Dam Ma‟rab were holy Quran weakened to such an extent that it collapsed and the fantastic flow of water Page: 1279 played havoc with the region, everything was washed away.

When the flood receded, the once fertile land turned barren. The beautiful green valleys were now desolate and deserted, the green orchards and fruit-laden trees were all destroyed, thorny plants and wild bushes grew up in their place. Thus the splendid civilization disappeared and became a part of history.

Prior to the above revelation of Quran the Arabs had thought that the stories about Saba were a legendry myth. But Quran dispelled their doubts and in our times the archeological findings proved the truth of Quranic revelations.

Al-Quran The people of Saba wronged themselves. So We turned them into bygone tales Surah Saba-34 and dispersed them, scattered in all directions. Surely there are signs in this for Verse: 19 those who endeavor and are grateful.

Commentary on the This incidence of the collapse of the Ma‟rab Dam occurred in 120 BC. holy Quran Page:1279

The Himyar Kings of Sana (115 BC to 300 AD):

Spirit of Islam The descendents of Abdul Shams two sons Himyar and Khlan, ruled the land Page: 60 by turns.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 This is the reason why the history of the two ruling families is written together. Page: 196-197 A chieftain of Himyar dynasty, united the two clans in 115 BC. He made his capital Ridan or Zagar far away from Marab, on a mountain. He gave the area the name of Yamnat or Yamnaat, which became Yemen with the passage of time. Its borders in the south-west spread from Eden to Asr, as far as Babul Mandb and Hazarmaut.

The Himyari rulers were interested in architecture; they constructed forts and fortresses, so much so that the Greek and other Geographers called Yemen the Land of Forts.

The Castle of Ghamdan:

Amongst these forts was that extra-ordinary building on the Sinai Mount, which is the first sky- scrapper of human history. It had 20 stories, being on the mountain, it appeared to be touching the heights of the sky.

History of Arabs This building built on a Himyari ruler's order, was made of granite, porphyry By: Philip K.Hitti and marble. Page: 55

The unique feature was that the king held court at the uppermost i.e, 22 story. The ceiling of the huge court was made of one granite marble slab, having no visible joint. It was strangely a transparent one, and one could see the sky through it as if it was made of glass. All birds flying in the sky could be seen through it with naked eye. When the famous poet Al-Hamdan saw this beautiful structure, he was so impressed that he wrote in his poem:

“The clouds hovering over the ceiling of the fort Ghamdan, appeared like a turban attached with marble strings (to the building)”.

The Himyari rulers, chieftains and feudal lords, again got various Dams constructed in the region. The larger Marab Dam was repaired and made operational. The new irrigational system soon made the land fertile again. New forts were established in the mountains, which protected the estates of the rich and mighty, and provided them peace essential for their fields and orchards.

Spirit of Islam During the Himyarian rulers, Judaism flourished in the land. Yet when the Syed Ameer Ali Roman Emperor Constantine sent his envoys in their court, the rulers permitted Page: 60 the establishment of churches but still the majority of the population remained Jewish like the ancient Semitic race were followers of Judaism.

Like their predecessors the Himyari ruler too gave importance to trade. The secret of their progress and prosperity in trade was due to the geographical location of Yemen. The Sea port of 95

Yemen was an important link between the east and west sea routes. On one side the Chinese silk, the spices of Malabar and Indonesia, Indian cloth and swords, while on the other ostrich feathers and ivory from Africa reached Yemen. From here the Yemeni traders took this merchandise to Asian, Egyptian and Syrian markets. The Roman and Greek traders benefitted from these markets.

The Yemeni's exported all kinds of perfumes, Aloes wood, Ambergris etc. to Egypt, Syria, Rome and Greece, where they were in great demand.

These land routes starting from Ma‟rab linked Eden, Hazarmaut to Mecca, Jeddah, Yathrab, Alulla, Eilla and Tabuk. At the juncture of Peta it divvied into two branches one towards Egypt the other to Syria.

The Saba nation under the Himyarian rulers had established their settlements all along these trade routes. The caravans carrying the merchandise passed through their cities day and night.

All this prosperity and hustle-bustle continued during their first era of rule, as their power diminished and weaker rulers ascended the throne, they were attacked by the Abyssinians of Eastern Africa, whose capture of the land however did not last long, and the Himyarians took back their land in 378 AD.

The Royals of Tababa or Companions of Tubba:

During the second phase of the Himyarian rule, they took the title of Tababa after one of their rulers Hassan Bin Tababa. However the nation was still called Saba. They are famous for their splendor. Quran makes a reference to these people of Tababa or Tubba.

Al-Quran (Referring to the arrogance of unbelievers of Mecca, Quran says): Are they Surah Dukhan-44 better than the people of Tubba and those who had lived before them, whom Verse: 37 We destroyed as they were sinners?

This sentence was addressed to the Infidels of Quraiysh of Mecca and their proud chiefs, when they were refuting holy prophet MohammadS and were denying the Last Day of Judgment. At this Quran asked them to remember how the arrogant Royals of Tababa were punished for their refutal.

Again in Surah Kahaf, Quran speaks about the same warning:

Al-Quran And the dwellers of the Wood and people of Tubba, each of them denied the Surah Kahf-50 Apostles. So my Warning became a reality. Verse: 14

The infidels of Quraiysh of Mecca should have learnt lessons from the destruction of such powerful and famous people as of Tubba. But they did not.

Tafseer-e-Namunah Interpreters, while elucidating these verses of Quran write that Divine Vol-21, Page: 180 Chastisement fell upon the people of Tababa, similar to that as fell on the Ref: people of HudA the 'Aad, and SalehA's people Thamud, and the people of Tafseer-ul- Byan, A Ruh-ul-Maany, prophet Lot . It means in case of Tababa, the real sinners were the people and 96

Tafseer Dar-al- not their ruler, and that is why chastisement fell on the people. Their ruler, Abi Mansur Kariba Asad (385-420 AD) although originally held the same belief as his people but converted later to Jewish faith. History of Arabs By: Philip K.Hitti Arabian traditions relate that this ruler conquered the land as far as Persia. On Page: 55 his return journey he decided to attack Mecca and to destroy the very sign of its Dignity and Honour i.e, Ka’ba' (The House of God). But during this journey he became so sick that his very life was in danger.

There was a Jew scholar amongst his soldiers. He informed the ruler about the significance of Ka’ba, according to his knowledge of Torah and also about the arrival of expected Prophet there. He also advised Abi Koriba to refrain from his plan and to drop the idea of attacking and destroying Ka’ba, if he wanted to regain his life and health.

Tubba king was influenced and impressed by the scholar, and he dropped his idea and decided not to attack or destroy the Ka’ba. Not only this, he accepted Judaism and before leaving for his country he ordered two brothers belonging to the Qahtan tribe, whose names were Ous and Khizraj, to stay back and to settle down in the area of Yathrab (Medina).

Tradition from He advised them: Prophet S “Stay back, and settle down here. Wait for the arrival of the prophet (as Mohammad prophesied in the Torah). If only I could have lived to see his arrival, I would Ref: Imam Jaffar SadiqA have stayed here and looked after him, by serving him”. This is the reason the holy prophet MohammadS said: "Do not speak against Tubba, as he was one of the faithfuls (had accepted the faith)".

According to this tradition it is clear that Abi Koriba Asad was known to the people of Mecca and Medina as Tubba.

It also becomes clear that the people of Tubba did not follow him in the acceptance of the faith, and continued refuting and denying the prophets. Hence they paid for it, their vast powerful nation was destroyed.

Tabba or Saba nation again faced disaster from the same large Dam of Ma‟rab, which was very strong and so it took many years for it to burst.

God Almighty could have easily destroyed it swiftly yet His Mercy and Compassion was ahead of His Wrath and Anger. Due to his Divine benevolence humans are given respite and punishment is delayed. Humans instead of understanding the ways of God, continue on the path of vice and sin or more precisely they follow the path of self-destruction.

Spirit of Islam Breaches started appearing in the walls of the Dam (during 542 AD to 548 AD. Page: 60-61 Simultaneously markets got slackened bringing down trade . To top it all, the powerful new Roman and Greek Empire took control in Middle-East, and History of Arabs By: Philip K.Hitti started controlling the trade routes. Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 Actually they had tried to take control in 200 BC too as they wanted to end the Page: 197 monopoly of the Saba nation on the ports of Red Sea and Indian Ocean. The reason behind the digging of Canal to connect the Mediterranean Sea and Red 97

Sea was also a part of the plan to control these trade routes by the Greek Emperor Bollemic II. It was this Canal through which the Egyptian fleet entered the Red Sea, yet the control still remained with the people of Saba.

After the Romans conquered Egypt, they brought their powerful fleet in the Red Sea, which backed their merchant Navy. This made the people of Saba helpless. Now the Romans built their colonies near the sea ports on both shores, so much so that they soon took up the control of the sea port of Aden; an important port which had been under the control of Saba nation under the Himyari and Tubba rulers for nearly thousand years.

Even the land routes which linked Yemen to Syria and used to be under Saba nation's control, were lost for some years to the invading Abyssinians.

The descendents of Abi Koriba Asad developed into extremist Jews, specially one of his successors Zonawas, who tortured Christians living in the land to such an extent, that the Roman Christian Emperor had to retaliate. Holy Quran calls these cruel people "Companions of fire (Akhdud)".

The Companions of Fire (Akhdud) of Yemen:

Al-Quran Accursed are the men of the trench full of fire fed by faggots, as they sat Surah Al-Buruj-85 around it witnessing what they had done to the believers. They had no other Verses: 4-10 reason for hating them except that they believed in God, the mighty, worthy of praise, whose kingdom spreads over the heavens and the earth. God is witness over everything. Surely for those who persecute believers, men and women, and do not repent afterwards, is the punishment of Hell and the punishment of burning.

By the companions of Akhdud (Fire) Quran means those cruel people who dug huge pits and burned fire in them. They then threw all monotheists and God believers in these pits to burn and die.

Commenting on the above-mentioned verses, many such incidents are quoted by interpreters. These incidents are not beyond the realms of reality. History too relates such incidents which took place in Yemani city of Najran, where the believers were killed in 523 AD by burning in fire.

This particular incident of 523 AD had been written by Ibne Hisham Tabari, ibne Khuldun and Maujam-al-Baldan. Philip K. Hitti writes in his book on page 62, Syed Ameer Ali writes it in Spirit of Islam on page 60, and Fullbee also mentioned it in his travelogue Arabian Highlands. To sum up the writings of these historians:

Summary Najran was the largest industrial and trade centre of Southern Arabia. Silk, Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 leather goods, weapons etc were produced here. When the Abyssinians Page: 289 conquered Yemen (340 AD to 378 AD) then Christian missionaries too arrived

Tafseer-e-Namunah and settled down here. Many others followed, and this migration continued till Vol-25, Page: 125 6th century AD. Quran calls these Christians the Believers, as they had 98

believed in the prophet of their era i.e, Jesus Christ. In 500 AD a great priest famous for his spiritual status visited Najran, he was named Phymiyum. Christians gathered around him and through his preaching nearly the whole population of Najran converted to Christianity. The control of Najran went completely in the hands of Christians. Internal affairs and administration came into the hands of the religious leaders i.e, Bishop.

When the Jew ruler of Yemen, Zonawas learnt about the situation in Najran, he was afraid of this change of faith of the population which was a dangerous sign. He could not tolerate that such an important industrial and trade centre should come under the influence of Christians. Moreover he could not stand the conversion of such a large number of his subjects. He was outraged.

Zonowas was a tyrant and aggressive ruler. He gathered an army and attacked Najran, who could not fight back. Their leader Arethos requested for compromise and re-conciliation. The conqueror accepted it on one condition that Arethos and his followers convert back to Judaism, only then he could saved his life and their lives. As he refused Arethos was arrested, his followers too refused to change their faith.

As a result Arethos was killed along with his family. For the rest of the Christians huge pits were dug and filled with fire. The irony was that they were asked to dig these pits themselves and to fill them with blazing fire. Then all those who refused to accept Jewish faith were pushed into it.

Thus the tyrant killed approximately 20 to 40 thousand Christians by burning them alive. Their Lord the Omnipresent, Almighty, then destroyed these tyrant people who had burnt to death the innocent, the feeble, young and old. There was not a single soul amongst the oppressors who repented or felt remorse for these people, nor did they pay any heed to their wailing and helpless cries. As the victims were surrounded by the flames, these Devilish evil people danced and enjoyed.

God's Wrath descended upon them due to those barbaric acts. They were wiped out from the face of the earth and became a part of history. Before their complete annihilation the nation and the rulers were disgraced and humiliated and they were fore-warned of the Fiery Hell waiting for them after death.

History records that a person named Dhu-Thalaban somehow escaped the fate of his fellow Christians and succeeded in reaching the court of Roman Emperor Justinian II. He narrated all that had happened to the Christian population of Najran and described the horrible scenes in such a manner that the Roman Court and Christian Community were filled with revenge.

As a result the Byzantinian Emperor wrote to the Abyssinian ruler Negus to invade Yemen. Negus who himself had desired the conquest of Yemen, accepted the advice of the Roman ruler and readily complied. He sent an army of 70,000 under his general Harris, who descended on the Saba nation as a sign of Divine Punishment. He sailed from Africa through Aden and landed on Babal Mandab, on the shores of Yemen. The attack was so sudden that Zonawas could not face it. Majority of his army along with him and his family were killed. Those who survived fled the scene. With the death of the ruler all splendor, pomp and glory of Tubba (or Saba) came to an end. Along with them ended the Jewish supremacy of the region.

Holy Quran refers to the power and grandeur of the people of Tubba in order to break the arrogance of the people of Pharaohs of Egypt. Quran says:

Al-Quran Surah Dukhan-44 Are they (the Pharaohs) better than the people of Tubba? Verse: 37

Spirit of Islam This incidence occurred in 528 AD. The killing of Zonawas, the fateful end of Syed Ameer Ali companions of Akhdud, and the exemplary end of the glorious Saba were the Page: 61-62 results derived from the tablets uncovered by the Archaeologists in the ruins of fort Grab in the 20th century.

Yemen was ruled by the Abyssinians till 542 AD, till the times that Abrha-ul-Sharm, killed Harris and became the viceroy of the land. He is the same Abraha who wanted to conquer Hijaz and destroy Ka’ba, but failed. God himself defended and protected His House, the army of Abraha was destroyed.

For a quarter century the Abyssinians remained in power in Yemen. At last the Himyarian chief M'adr Karih son of Saif Bin Zulyezen, with the help of the Persian king Khusrau Naushirwan attacked Yemen. Thus ended the rule of the Abyssinians, and the Himyari dynasty re-established its rule. However Ma'dr Karih was killed in a Christian revolt in 597 AD. Khusrau curbed the revolt later and Yemen came under the direct rule of the Persian Sassanid Dynasty.

The Emperor appointed a viceroy over Yemen who in Persian was called "Marzban". Under these new administrators Yemen, Hazarmaut, Mohra and Oman were lumped together as a unit of Persian Empire. The last Marzban appointed by Khusrau Parwez in 606AD was the one, under whom Islam spread in Yemen, as he himself converted, the majority of the population followed and embraced Islam.

Dam of Ma’rab and the Yemeni Qahtan Tribe's Migration:

It is a historical and geographical reality that Yemen is a land of summer seasonal rains, yet it remained barren and uninhabited till 1000BC, as the whole country had no river or lake. The natural topography and shape of the mountains in such that the rain falling on them flows into the Sea. Banu Qahtan had entered Yemen after a long journey from north to south. They passed through the western region of Persia and moved through Iraqi fertile land, the Deltas of River Euphrates and Tigris and kept on moving towards the vast Arabian Desert until they were attracted by the landscape of Yemen and settled down.

During their long journey, they had seen and experienced much, and were impressed by the irrigation system of Mesopotamia. They learnt how water could be stored through Dams and how sustenance and survival could be made possible in extreme cold and hot climates.

They themselves were physically strong and hard working; hence when they settled down in Yemen, they utilized their strength and newly learnt knowledge. They constructed small Dams (for irrigation) in various valleys. In 950BC they succeeded in constructing one of the largest and 100 wonderful Dams of its era. The area it was constructed was known as “Ma’rab” hence the name Dam Ma’rab which the Quran calls “Wall of Ma’rab”.

History of Saba indicates that as long as this nation followed the teachings of the prophets, showed submission towards Allah and showed their gratitude for the Divine Blessings and Bounties, they enjoyed them and lived under the umbrella of Divine Benevolence. Yet when they became proud and showed ingratitude for all Blessings and disobeyed Divine Laws by refuting the teachings of the prophets, then God withdrew His Blessings from them.

The strong Dam Ma’rab and the great irrigation system, the very source of their sustenance was destroyed. Apparently such destruction was beyond human comprehension. Definitely it was Divine Wrath and Chastisement which descended upon the non-believers.

The process of this breaking was not sudden but took a period of nearly five years (115 AD to 120 AD) when the splitting and cracking broke it. It is called by the Quran Sail-al-‘Arim ( ) Quran says:

Al-Quran But they turned away. So We let loose on them the inundation of al-'Arim. Surah Saba-34 Verse: 16

History of Arabs These cracks were the beginning which destroyed the Dam. The Himyari By: Philip K. Hitti rulers, re-constructed the Dam, yet cracks appeared again in the 3rd century Page: 54 AD. Nearly after a century in 449AD to 450AD it was reconstructed for the 3rd time, yet that too proved unreliable. The last time the Abyssinian ruler Abraha got it re-constructed from 543AD to 570AD, but soon this great source of irrigation system collapsed again.

The ruins of this Dam are still seen in Yemen. The very survival and existence of the people of Yemen i.e, Banu Qahtan or Saba was primarily on this Dams. Other smaller dams provided additional facility. As the large Dam collapsed the whole system of irrigation collapsed. Now migration was the only solution. The migration had partially started in the middle of the 3rd century AD. The bigger tribes of Banu Ghusan, Tanukh, Banu Tay and Banu Kunda now migrated towards the north. Then rest of the smaller tribes too left the land and settled down in the south of Mecca between Mecca and Medina.

Banu Ghusan:

History of Arabs Sama Amr Muzayqiya ibne Amr Ma'ad who was the chief of tribe of Banu By: Philip K.Hitti Ghusan, migrated in the 3rd century AD with his tribe. After a long journey to Page: 78-84 the north-west he reached the borders of Syria and reached Basra. While Syria was a part of the Byzantine Empire this area in the south of Syria and north of Arabia acted as a buffer Zone, but was under the control of Byzantinian rulers.

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After a few years Jafnah one of the sons of Sam Ma'ad, succeeded in establishing his rule in this region. He was the first Arabian king of Syria, and his whole tribe accepted Christianity as their faith.

Abu-al-Fada in his book says that the dynasty consisted of 31 rulers, whereas Hamza-al- Isphahani writes them as 30. This Jafnid Dynasty of Banu Ghussan remained in power till 7th century as a Buffer State for the Byzantine Empire.

The beautiful city of Al-Habya on the Golan Heights was the capital of Jafnid. Harris Ibne Jabla (529 AD to 569 AD) ruled for forty years. He enhanced the beauty of the city by getting buildings constructed of Black marble, in the mountains. Many forts and Minarets were made in various cities constructed on the mountains of Juran. Archaeologists have discovered nearly 300 such cities of the Jafnid era when Harris Bin Jabla ruled.

Historians state that Harris spent 15 years of his rule, fighting with a branch of his own Banu Qahtan tribe Lakhmy. They too had migrated along with Banu Ghusan from Yemen and had settled down on the borders of Mesopotamia. Their capital was Al-Hyrah.

In 544AD during these skirmishes Al-Manzar III of the Lakhmy Dynasty kidnapped a son of Harris and scarified him at the altar of their goddess Aza. All this resulted in a continuous conflict between the two for nearly 10 years. At last in a bigger battle Harris succeeded in defeating his enemy and killing his opponent ruler at the battle field of Qansarin.

Al-Manzar III was regarded as a great danger by the Byzantinian Emperor. Both Lakhmy and Ghusan enjoyed a similar status against the Sassanid Khusrau and Byzantinian Caesar respectively. Both guarded the borders and acted like Buffer Zone and Frontier State for the Big Powers of that era.

The killing of Lakhmy ruler and the defeat of his army was taken as a great achievement by Justinian I. In 529 AD he declared Harris as the Chief of all Arabian Tribes and conferred upon him the title of "Phylarch" which was a title second to none other than the king.

Thus Harris was given the control and authority second to the Emperor Justinian I over all Arab Tribes. In 563AD Harris visited the court of the Emperor who along with his courtiers accorded him a warm welcome (at Constantinople). During his stay at Constantinople Harris met Bishop Jacob Baradacens, who impressed him so much that Harris converted to Christianity.

After Harris his son Al-Manzar, having the same name as that of his father's enemy, ascended the throne, and ruled from 569 AD to 582 AD. Due to some religious differences and suspicions, Caesar Teberins III, got Al-Manzar arrested and exiled him to Sicily.

After this the kingdom disintegrated and many independent units took existence. The kingdom was divided into clans, and various chieftains started ruling and controlling their individual clans.

In 610AD the Sassanid ruler of Persia Khusrau Parwez defeated the Byzantinian Emperor, and captured the whole region. However his control was short-lived and in 619 AD Caesar Heraclius defeated Khusrau and the power of Ghusany Chiefs was restored in Syria. Amongst these chiefs was

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Jabala Bin Ayham, who fought against the Muslims in the battles of Yarmuk and Doma; as a representative of the Byzantinian Emperor. After these battles he accepted Islam but soon apostatized (changed religion) during the rule of Umer FarooqR and fled to Byzantine, where he died as a non-believer.

Spirit of Islam It is stated that during Umer FarooqR's reign, Jabala came to Medina in full Syed Ameer Ali glory of a ruler. He was welcomed accordingly at Medina, and then he went for Page: 432 pilgrimage. During circumbulating the Ka’ba, a part of his gown came under the feet of a Arabian Bedouin. Infuriated he slapped the man so hard that his teeth were broken. When Caliph Umer FarooqR heard about it, he summoned Jabala and inquired about it, he proudly replied: "This Arab had insulted me, if the respect of the Ka’ba had not been in my mind, I would have killed him there and then". This arrogance increased his crime, Caliph Umer FarooqR said: "According to the Islamic law, all humans are equal. You will have to apologize. If he forgives you, you will be free, if not you will have to face law and its punishment". Jabala requested cessation time, and fled to Byzantine the same night. He converted back to Christianity and died as a Christian.

Tanukh, Banu Uzd and Bani Lakhm:

Short History of The second largest tribe, which migrated from Yemen in the beginning of the Islam 3rd century AD was Tanukh which was a cognate of many tribes and clans. By: Mazhar-ul-Haq Page: 207 Among other smaller members of this cognate were the larger ones of Bani History of Arabs Uzd and Bani Lakhm, who had been a part of the Mesopotamian ruling elite By: Philip K.Hitti around 226AD, after the defeat of the Parathions and their banishment by the Page: 81 Sassanid ruler.

Ibne Fahm-ul-Azdy was the chief of both these tribes, which landed on the western bank of river Euphrates at the location where the Sassanid ruler had dug a Canal, called Shahpur Canal. It formed a circle and reached Persian Gulf. This region was a fertile one. Fahm-ul-Azdy was succeeded by his son and grandson (son of his daughter). As his father belonged to the Lakhme tribe (and the other was the daughter of Fahm-ul-Azdy), this dynasty of rulers was called Lakhmy.

This chief named Umer Ibne Nasr Ibne Rabya Ibne Lakhm was the founder of the Lakhmy dynasty. Initially these tribes lived in tent-villages, which in the Syrian language were called "Hertah", which changed with times into Hera or Al-Hera.

Umer Bin Ady soon established cities in places of these settlements. As cities developed he declared himself as a king and a dynasty was formed. He made "Herah" his capital and soon the whole area surrounded by Shahpur Canal was included in his kingdom.

Nearly 20 kings of Hera are mentioned in the Arabian History; yet detailed account of only a few is available. A fact which is generally written about them is that they were great patrons of 103 poets, and were generous and kind in nature. They loved architecture and constructed great forts and splendid cities which existed in full glory till the 6th century AD.

Some of these famous kings are: 1. Umra-al-Qays:

He is a famous king who died in 328AD (He is not the famous poet by the same name, and who belonged to the Kandah Tribe). 2. Al-Nauman Awwal-Alawar:

He was a descendent of Umra-al-Qays, according to Arab tradition, was blind in one eye, hence the title Alawar. His greatest achievement was the construction of the fort of Al-Khawarnaq, which he had got built on the order of the Sassanid ruler Yazdgard I (399 AD to 420AD) for his son Behram Gor. The ruins still speak about its past grandeur and splendor. It is said after the construction of this fort he ordered the execution of its architect, to prevent him from designing another one like it.

He got another fort built between Syria and Herah's desert, the fort is known as Al-Sadir, however very little is known about it.

3. Al-Mundhir I (418 AD to 462 AD):

He was the son of Al-Nauman. He had great influence in the court of Yazdgar I. When this Emperor died it was only through the efforts of Al-Mundhir that his son Behram ascended the throne despite the opposition of the courtiers. Al-Mundhir proved his brilliance when fighting in support of the Sassanid ruler in 421AD against the Byzantinian ruler.

4. Al-Mundhir II Ma'al Sama (505 AD to 554 AD):

He was the first and last Lakhmy king who worried the Romans. When he attacked Antioch, then the Roman Emperor sent Ghusany ruler Al-Harris, to subdue him. But Al-Harris was defeated and his son captured by the Lakhmy ruler who then scarified him at the altar of his goddess Uzay. However Al-Harris avenged this after 10 years, by defeating the Lakhmy ruler and then got him buried alive. 5.Umra Ibne Hind:

He was the son of Mundhir II and is famous by his mother "Hind's" name. He was a cruel tyrant but a great patron of poets. The famous Arabic Poetry known by the name Muallaqat, which was composed by seven (7) great poets, had three (3) poets belonging to Umra-ibn-Hind's court. They were:

(a). Trappah Ibne Abd. (b). Al-Harith Ibne Hallizah. (c). Amr Ibne Kulthum. 104

They had a great influence in the court, so much so that when Amr Abne Kulthum was offended and displeased with the king, he killed him.

The mother of Amr-Inbe-Kulthum was a Christian, who got a monastery constructed in Herah, which existed till the 2nd century Hijri.

6. Al-Nauman III (586 AD to 602 AD):

He was the son of Al-Mundhir III, his title was Abu-Qabisah, and he was the first and last lakhmy ruler who converted to Christianity. The famous poet Al-Nabigheh Al-Zubyan was his courtier.

He was the last ruler of Herah, after him, the kingdom dissipated.

Actually both the Ghusany rulers of Basra and the Lakhmy of Herah were vassal states of Byzantinian Empire and Sassanid Empire. Both these Empires acted like their Benefactors and Protectors. Both Empires provided them certain privileges and promoted their existence in the limits of their boundaries, as they acted like Buffer Zones and stood guards at their frontiers. This political policy soon made this Vassal kingdoms enemy of each other. Both tribes fought with each other continuously and this enmity continued for centuries.

Thus dividing and making them enemies of each other suited the Superior Powers but did not suit the Vassal states because as soon as weaker rulers ascended the throne of Herah, Khusrau rulers took advantage, attacked Herah and made it a part of Mesopotamia.

Kindah:

The third large tribe which migrated from Yemen was Kindah, they settled down in Central Arabia. Their history is as follows:

History of Arabs In 480AD Himyari ruler Hassan Bin Tubba, overpowered certain tribes of By: Philip K.Hitti Central Arabia, and sent his step brother Hujr Akil Al-Murar as their ruler. This Page: 84 brother soon established his kingdom, the Kindite Dynastyforty miles in the north west of Baghdad. After him his son Amr and then his grandson Al-Harris ibne Amr ascended the throne. Taking advantage of the internal chaos and crises, he suddenly attacked Herah and captured it. However his control was short-lived, as in 529AD Al-Mundhir III conquered back Herah. Al-Harith and 40 members of his family were killed in the fight.

The rest of the Kindah tribe left the region for Yemen and settled down in Hazarmaut.

The renowned and famous poet Amru-al-Qays belonged to this Kindah tribe and was member of the royal family. Throughout his life he tried to get back his family's kingdom. To obtain help, he travelled to the Roman court of Caesar Justinian at Constantinople. During his return journey, according to Arab narrators he was poisoned at the city of Ankara.

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Various other Arab Tribes:

It should be noted that apart from Bani Ismael wherever the Bedouin tribes migrated, they all were basically of Qahtany race, which had travelled through south-east and reached Yemen, on their journey routes they left behind many settlements of small groups of settlers. These increased in number with the passage of time and formed their own tribes; they were apart from the Saba nation yet were Semetic Qahtany by race.

Amongst these Central and Northern Tribes:

1. Banu Ghatafan: Settled in between Khyber Fort and Medina city. 2. Banu Tayyi, Ashja, Fezara amd Banu Asad: They settled in east of Medina city. 3. Banu Sylaym and Banu Hawazin: They settled in between Mecca and Medina in south of Mecca. 4. Banu Jahaynah, Muzanyah, Daws and Kinana: They settled on the western route of Mecca to Syria.

Besides these bigger tribes many smaller branches of these tribes, separated from them such as: Bani Murrah, Bani Thalabah and Bani Ads were branches of Banu Ghatafan.

Majority of these tribes were allies of the Quraiysh of Mecca, and had political and trade agreements with them.

After the advent of Islam in the 7th century AD, when the unbelievers of Mecca attacked Medina, the different Jewish and Christian tribes also came to help them in the Battle of Trench. These tribes were: Banu Ghatafan, Banu Fezara, Banu Sulaym and Banu Mustlaq. Yet their combined forces could not defeat Muslims.

In the peace pact of Hudaybiya (in 628AD, 6th Hijri) there was a clause that all Arab Tribes were free to form friendship alliances with either the infidels of Mecca or with the Islamic State of Medina and could become signatories to this Peace Pact i.e, joined the Pact of Hudaybiya.

As a result of this clause many settlers tribes of Northern and Central Arabia chose to join the Hudaybiya Pact. Some also accepted Islam, whereas some tribes allied with Jews while some Christian tribes accepted to pay Jazya (protection Tax) and allied with Muslims. Very few tribes were left as allies of the Meccans, amongst them the most prominent was Banu Bakr Bin Wai'l.

Banu Bakr Bin Wai'l:

Along the borders of Mesopotamia between the area of Yamama and Herah, Banu Bakr had been living since centuries. Many branches and clans of this tribe roamed about in the land as

106 nomads. The chiefs and heads of the families though were independent, yet they were united as a tribe. This unity was the base of their power and strength. In the Arabian Peninsula they were the first who challenged the powerful Sassanid Empire at (Zuqar) in 610AD and defeated the armies of Khusrau Perwez.

This same powerful tribe was an ally of the Meccans. They were the ones who on the persuasion and initiative of the Meccans, attacked (Muslim allied) Banu Khazaa at night and killed many men (two years after the peace pact of Hudaybiya).

Amongst Banu Bakr clans, one clan were Banu Shyban, the chief of this clan was the most strong and powerful, his name was Mthna Bin Hartha. Mthna became a Muslim during the reign of Caliph Abu BakrR and leaving his clan, fought under the command of Khalid Bin Walyd against his own tribe.

Hyksos, Bani Jarhm and Bani Ismail:

The Hyksos and Bani Jarhm both belonged to the Arab Alba'dh and Arab Al'arba whereas Banu Ismail belonged to Al-Mstarba who were the permanent residents of Arabia. As all the three tribes are closely inter-linked, therefore they are mentioned together in Arab history.

Who were the Hyksos and from where did they come to Arabia? Hyksos kings belonged to the descendents of Sam Bin NoahA, who settled down in Arabia. In his various sermons in Nahj-al-Balagha Imam AliA spoke about the ancient tribes of Arabia. He mentioned the Hyksos in his sermon No. 108, which is quite detailed.

Historian Tabari and Masoody have also written about Hyksos kings and have stated their lineage as Ibne Ladow Ibne Irum Ibne Sam.

Some of these clans and families settled in Mecca and others in Syria. Those who came to Mecca were some time later over-powered by Bani Jarhm. They left Mecca and moved to Yemen and then to the valleys of Euphrates and Tigress (in Iraq) where they established their rule around 2000 BC (prior to that of the Assyrians). They soon conquered Syria, Canaan and reached the border region of Egypt.

It took Hyksos about 400 years to reach Egyptian borders. During their travelling they learnt the art of training horses. Soon they became expert riders and all their conquests from the kingdom of Babylon to Canaan, Syria, Palestine and southern Egypt were due to this expertise. Their fast mobility on horses made them invincible.

When Prophet AbrahamA reached the city of Canaan in Hebron, the Semitic races inhabited this region up to the Egyptian borders. By profession they were herdsmen and shepherds and their sustenance depended upon their flocks of goats and sheep. They were looked down upon by the civilized Egyptians who called them shasho i.e, shepherds. Those who migrated from Arabia and Babylon too belonged to the same race. Prophet AbrahamA was also a Semitic, and was a descendent of Sam bin NoahA. His family had been settled in Haran during the 18th-19th century BC. 107

Before the Hyksos conquered the lands adjacent to Egyptian borders, the Semitic races were present in the region and ruled some areas. Prominent among them were Hittites who ruled the region north of Egypt as far as Syria. Hyksos had no fight on conflict with these clans of Hittites, they being of the same race. So they became allies.

After the weakening of the 14th dynasty Egyptian rulers, the Hyksos along with their allies attacked the southern part of Egypt and conquered it. The Egyptian Qubty rulers moved to the north to River Nile's Delta, and to the southern region of the Upper Egypt. From the excavated inscriptions discovered by archaeologists, we learn that Hyksos were the first horse riders in the region; prior to them this mode of transport was unknown. The Hyksos conquerors who arrived from western Asia were owners of large flocks of sheep and goats, and herds of Camels and used horses for riding and guarding the herds. The Egyptian history calls them Hyksos kings, riders of horses.

They formed the 15th dynasty of rulers in Egypt, who made Avaris, the previous capital of Hittites as their capital too. They ruled over a vast region covering the eastern Delta of Nile, whole of the northern Egypt and in the south the whole central region of Egypt was under their command and control for nearly three centuries.

These rulers did not take the title of Egyptian kings i.e, Pharaoh, neither did they follow their religious beliefs nor worship the Egyptian gods. They were also not interested in building Pyramids or magnificent castles and Palaces. This is the reason they left little for the archaeologists to discover and hence no details are known about their rule and era in the Egyptian history. The strangest fact is that prophet JosephA who came to Egypt during their reign and ruled Egypt for nearly eighty years, finds no place in the annals of Egyptian history.

From the translations of Imam AliA's sermon No. 180, we learn that the ruler who conquered Egypt was Walyd Ibne Dwma. It was during the reign of his son Ryan Ibne Walyd that prophet JosephA was first appointed as Finance Minister then Chief Minister and then became the ruler of Egypt. JosephA was succeeded by Dwma Ibne Ryan, who in turn was succeeded by Kams Ibne Ma'adan.

The Hyksos Dynasty, got weakened because of its' incompetent and tyrant rulers towards the end of it's rule. Then they were easily over-powered by the Pharaohs of Egypt.

Bani Jarhm:

Spirit of Islam This tribe belongs to the Al-'arba and were a branch of Qahtany race. They too Syed Ameer Ali moved out during the era when Hyksos had settlements in Arabia. It appears Page: 58 their large numbers needed a vast region, so they captured Hijaz and soon drove out Hyksos. When AbrahamA left his wife and son IshmaelA, in Mecca and returned to Canaan, then Bani Jarhm also took abode in Mecca.

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IshmaelA and His Mother Hagar:

The reason of mentioning the name of IshmaelA's mother along with him is the great role played by her in his upbringing. She brought him up in a befitting manner to make him a worthy son of his exalted father AbrahamA.

While going through the details of IshmaelA's life an attempt will be made to simultaneously highlight the role played by his mother Hagar.

The Holy Quran says about IshmaelA:

Al-Quran (Remember), Ishmael, Idris and Dhu'l-Kifl. They were men of fortitude. And Surah Anbiya-21 they were admitted to Our Grace. Verily they were among the doers of good. Verse: 85-86

Al-Quran We gave guidance to Ishmael, Elisha and Jonah and Lot. and We favored them Surah An'am-6 over other people of the world. Verse: 86

IshmaelA mentioned in both these verses was the son of Prophet AbrahamA for whom AbrahamA had prayed while migrating from Babylon. Holy Quran mentions this prayer:

Al-Quran Surah Saffat-37 (And Abraham prayed): O Lord, grant me a righteous son. Verse: 100-101

In return of his prayer AbrahamA got the tiding of a son who was to be obedient, steadfast and pious. However it took a long time in the fulfillment of his prayer. As he grew old AbrahamA waited and continuously prayed to his Lord for this great gift of a child.

God bestowed AbrahamA with two sons, first IshmaelA from Hagar, and then IsaacA from Sarah. These were the gifts of God to AbrahamA in his advanced old age of over eighty years and over ninety years respectively. AbrahamA then prayed:

Al-Quran Surah Ibrahim-14 All praise be to God who bestowed on me Ishmael and Isaac in old age. Verse: 39

About the extra-ordinary attributes of IshmaelA, Quran says:

Al-Quran We gave guidance to Ishmael, Elisha and Jonah and Lot. And We favored them Surah An'am-6 Verse: 86 over other people of the world.

IshmaelA is amongst those prophets whom God gifted with extra-ordinary attributes and qualities. God had made His prophets superior to all people, and among His prophets the most close to God are MohammadS, AbrahamA and IshmaelA.

Prophet IshmaelA was born in Hebron city of Canaan. His lineage reaches NoahA from both mother and father side. His father AbrahamA was a descendent of Arphaxad Bin Sam Bin NoahA, whereas his mother Hagar was a descendent of Aram Bin Sam Bin NoahA.

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According to Arabian history the first to inhabit the Arabian Peninsula were Bani 'Aad, who were destroyed by Divine Chastisement due to their disobedience of the prophets. Those who survived took refuge with the powerful Mesopotamians, the descendents of Aram Bin Sam, who are known as Hyksos in history and who succeeded in establishing a powerful government in Yemen, Palestine and Egypt.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The rule of the Hyksos was established around 2000 BC and remained till 1500 Page: 381 BC for a period of 500 years. This same dynasty of Semitic race were in the process of establishing their rule

on the borders of Egypt when AbrahamA came there from Canaan. The Semitic A ruler out of respect gave his daughter Hagar in service of Abraham and Sarah. She became the mother of AbrahamA's son IshmaelA. Arab Ishmaely race thus started from her.

Anbiya-e-Karam To call Hagar a slave is due to ignorance and jealousy of the Jewish writers. By: Maulana Abul She was not a slave as she was neither sold nor purchased. Moreover she had Kalam Azad not been a part of war booty or spoils of war. When AbrahamA returned to Page: 143 Canaan, the draught and famine had ended there. He had been given gifts by the Semitic ruler and father of Hagar. According to those days he was a man of means, owner of a large herd of flocks of animals. He settled down in Hebron, and preached in the surrounding region, making Hebron the centre of his teachings. Then God bestowed him with a virtuous steadfast son from his wife Hagar. With this great gift came a Divine Command that a centre of guidance should be established in Mecca, which was then a deserted uninhabited place in the arid mountains. For this great spiritual heritage God had pre-destined and selected Hagar and her infant son IshmaelA. They were to be left alone in the wilderness of Mecca.

IshmaelA was still a new born when the trial period of Hagar started. There was a distance of over a thousand miles between Canaan and Mecca. It was a great trial of AbrahamA who was a symbol of submission and reverence, and also a great trial of his wife Hagar to stay alone in the desolate wilderness of Mecca. . She too bowed and readily accepted the Divine Will and Command. This reverence and obedience brought down upon her the blessings of her Lord.

The waste land of Mecca had little to offer its guests. When AbrahamA was departing for Canaan, leaving Hagar and her child alone in the wilderness of Mecca. Hagar looked anxiously at her husband.

AbrahamA uttered a single sentence in reply to the silent query of his wife.

Kamil Ibne Kaseer-1 “My Lord had ordered me thus”. Page: 103 Hearing this Hagar was consoled and replied confidently: “If that is so then Our Lord will not leave us abandoned”.

Bidding her husband fare-well, she sat down with the child in her lap.

Imagine on one hand the vast difference between the southern fertile plains of River Nile, and the desolate barren desert of Arabia, and on the other hand a princess who had spent her life in the

110 lap of luxuries was seated on the burning sands helpless. Yet she was peaceful being fully aware that this desolate spot was that of her Lord's House (Ka’ba), and that a prophet's son was in her lap. Perhaps she was aware that God had selected this land for the coming of future generations of her son. She was neither worried nor anxious; her whole attention was focused on the welfare of her son. The first trial came when her water reserve ended.

Search of water in the desert was not an easy task. Sand dunes and rocky hills hindered her view. She could not take the infant along in the search of water. So leaving him lying on the ground, weeping and whimpering she climbed the Saffa hills. Finding no water there she came down, and climbed the other hill of Marwah. She ran up and down many times between these hills in desperation. As long as she was able to hear her son's wailing she felt satisfied of his safety. She ran between the hills seven times, when all of a sudden the wailing of the infant stopped. She rushed towards her son, and to her amazement she found water gushing forth near the heels of IshmaelA, where he had been rubbing ground with his heels. Thanking her Lord, she lifted the child and quenched both his and her thirst. Then to hold the water from flowing down she tried to stop it by putting sand around it. While doing so in anxiety she cried again and again “Zam Zam, Zam Zam” (which means Stop Stop). God made these words immortal.

The Endeavour in search of water made by Hagar, and the running between the two hills of Saffa and Marwah, has been made by God an important part of Hajj (holy pilgrimage at Ka’ba). Every pilgrim has to run between these two hills. The spring which gushed at her son's feet got its name “Zam Zam” from her, and God made this spring feed Mecca for hundreds of centuries without running out.

This incident occurred at that juncture of Arabian history when the powers of the Ammonite (Akkads) were weakening, and Qahtan a tribal chief and a descendent of Arfksad Bin Shem Bin NoahA, after leaving Bactria was gradually trying to take control of Yemen and Hijaz.

Bani Jarhm belonged to the same tribe and was one of its branches, who later gained fame in the Arabian history. It was Divine blessing, that while Hagar was thanking her Lord for providing her water, some members of Bani Jarhm were in search of water in the plains of Arafat and Zulmajaz. When they saw birds flying in one direction, they knew water was in same direction. So following the birds they reached the spot. They were surprised at the sight and could not believe their eyes.

It is believed that AbrahamA travelled to Mecca through the famous trade route liking Hijaz, Yemen, Babylon, Nineveh, Canaan and Egypt. AbrahamA had travelled through these routes to these lands for years, and preached Monotheism to the people. His teaching centers existed in these regions and were well-known.

The descendents of Shem Bin NoahA were fully aware of prophet AbrahamA and his status. When they learnt who Hagar and the child were, they regarded it an honor to settle down near AbrahamA's family. Taking permission from Hagar they settled near the spring, IshmaelA was loved and cherished by them.

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After leaving Mecca, AbrahamA was overwhelmed with love for his only child and his wife, and repeatedly would look behind to see them. After climbing the hill ZeeTowa, he looked back for the last time and prayed to his Lord on whose Command he had left his wife and child in the wilderness.

Al-Quran I have settled my off-spring, O Lord, in a barren valley near your Sacred House Surah Ibrahim-14 so that, O our Lord, they may be constant in devotion. So put in the heart of Verse: 37 men some kindness for them and provide fruit for them. They may haply be grateful.

It was acceptance of this prayer that when after some time he returned to visit them, he found the desolate land inhabited. Bani Jarhm had looked after his family well. Satisfied, he left again for Canaan. IshmaelA grew up under the guidance and loving care of his mother. When he grew up, members of Bani Jarhm provided him with goats and sheep as a gift, thus he became the owner of a considerable number of live-stock and economically well off.

AbrahamA frequently visited them. During one of these visits he was commanded by the Lord to construct (Ka’ba) "The House of the Lord".

It should be noted here that the first place of God's worship on earth, was built by AdamA at Mecca, which remained the centre of worship till the times of NoahA. However at later times mankind strayed from the right path and idol-worship became the faith of the majority. It was then that this "First House of Worship" became desolate and its' walls collapsed. However the signs of ruins existed and were known to people as a sacred place.

Now that this House was to be rebuilt, and was to exist forever. Angel Gabriel came with full instructions from God and guided AbrahamA to built Kabaa' on the same foundations as AdamA did. So the construction started. AbrahamA was assisted by his young pious son IshmaelA.

AbrahamA and IshmaelA were laying the foundations of Ka’ba and praying at the same time:

Al-Quran And when Abraham was raising the plinth of the House of God with Ishmael, Surah Al-Baqarah-2 (he prayed): Verses: 127-128 “Accept this from us O Lord, for you hear and know everything”.

AbrahamA, thus prayed to his Lord while raising the walls of Ka’ba. His son helped him by lifting the stones and giving it to him to build the walls. When the walls were at a height of "Nine Hands", then Angel Gabriel brought the "Black Stone" (Hijr-e-Aswad). AbrahamA fixed it at the spot indicated by the Angel. Then walls were raised another "Twelve Hands" and were covered by a wooden roof. Two doors were made (in the eastern and western walls) in the building, one for entrance and the other for exit.

Great Sacrifice and IshmaelA:

After construction of the Ka’ba, AbrahamA left for Cannan. When he came back after a few years IshmaelA had grown up to a personality which Quran calls “Ghulam-e-Halim” (tender and

112 submissive). This obedient and gentle character perhaps had a hand of his mother in his upbringing and the virtuous qualities an answer to his father's prayers. He had reached an age where he could understand and fully enjoy the company of his father. Both felt love for each other, the father was contented and pleased with his son. In the words of Quran:

Al-Quran Surah Saffat-37 He (Ishmael) was old enough to go about with him. Verse: 102

This was the time when AbrahamA was put to a great trial by his Lord. AbrahamA was commanded in a dream to sacrifice his son in the name of God. AbrahamA waited, but for continuously, two nights he saw the same dream. AbrahamA then understood that his Lord demanded compliance.

AbrahamA was convinced of his son's capabilities and steadfastness but the magnitude of the trial was enormous. So he asked his son:

Al-Quran When he (Ishmael) was old enough to go about with him, he said: “O my son, I Surah Saffat-37 dreamt that I was sacrificing you. Consider, what you think”? Verse: 102

The son (IshmaelA) was also a prophet of high stature. The Lord had praised him

Al-Quran “We gave guidance to Ishmael, Elisha and Jonah and Lot. And We favored Surah An'am-6 them over the other people of the world”. Verse: 86

So IshmaelA replied:

Al-Quran Surah Saffat-37 “Father, do as you are commanded. If God pleases, you will find me firm”. Verse: 102

AbrahamA who had waited anxiously for his son's reply, hearing these words, he overcame with joy and lovingly embraced and kissed his son.

IshmaelA was of tender age whom Quran calls "Ghulam". His answer, full of confidence and trust, could only come from such persons who enjoy special blessings of God.

Al-Quran (Remember) Ishmael, Edris and Dhul-Kifl. They were men of fortitude. And Surah Anbiya-21 they were admitted to Our Grace. Verily they were among the doers of good. Verses: 85-86

This unquestioned submission to the will of God was IshmaelA's success in the trial. On hearing the reply of the son, AbrahamA picked up a knife and a rope and holding the hand of his son walked towards the spot indicated to him by Revelation. Both father and son moved towards a desolate spot. Lost in Divine love, their destination was the same, yet feelings were different. The father was about to sacrifice his cherished only son, his life line. Yet on his lips was the praise of Almighty, he uttered many a times: “O Lord! I am going to sacrifice my only son, on your Will”.

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The son on the other hand, was about to sacrifice his own life on Divine Command. Although AbrahamA had faced many trials in his life, but for IshmaelA it was his first. Still his devotion was unique. He too sang Praise of Almighty, along with his father. Besides, he was also conversing with his father, he said: “O father! Blind fold yourself, so that seeing my face may not distract you with feelings of grief and love”.

As he recalled the sentiments of his mother and her love, he said: “O father! Remove my shirt so that it is not soaked in my blood, for my blood-stained shirt will grieve her. O father! Tie my hands and feet so that I may not struggle at the time of slaughter”.

“My last request to you is, make my fore-head touch the ground, so that my reward may increase”.

AbrahamA fulfilled both the wishes of his son, as the Quran says:

Al-Quran When they submitted to the will of God, and (Abraham) laid (his son) down Surah Saffat-37 Verse: 103 prostrate on his temple.

It is stated that AbrahamA tried to move his knife on the throat of his son but the knife would not work. As it happened again and again the worried AbrahamA removed the fold from his eyes and looked towards the sky. Precisely at the same moment, his Lord called out to him:

Al-Quran We called out: “O Abraham, you have fulfilled your dream”. Thus We do Surah Saffat-37 Verses: 104-106 reward the good. That was indeed a trying test.

AbrahamA had only one son, IshmaelA, at that time; Isaac had not been born yet. Divine Will was not that a father should slaughter his only son; or son to be butchered by his father. Amongst the Great Five Prophets AbrahamA ranks only second to Prophet MohammadS, while IshmaelA belongs to the other group of 25 greatly respected prophets. Thus although this trial was of the two great venerable prophets of Allah but God Almighty wanted to set an example for all humans for, Jinns and angels: “See how much devoted servants of Allah are ready to sacrifice on His Command”.

Such great show of submissiveness and patience, faithfulness and devotion, adherence to Divine Will, faith and conviction, will never be witnessed by the creations of the great Creator. Angel GabrielA too after witnessing the whole scene exclaimed: "Allah is Great".

It is stated that the sacrifice of AbrahamA's son had already been accepted in advance by the Lord, who sent a sheep for slaughtering in his place. Not only this but in memory of this scarifice, believers all over the world were made to celebrate Eid-al-Azha, while it was made mandatory for all the pilgrims performing Hajj to offer sheep, goats, or camels as sacrifice in memory of IshmaelA.

This historical event was not only a trial of two great prophets who set a unique example of obedience and submission to Divine Will, But the Lord wanted to keep the memory of this sacrifice alive among the believers. So God sent a sheep to be slaughtered in IshmaelA's place and 114 commanded each and every pilgrim coming for performing Hajj to sacrifice an animal in Mina, at the location where IshmaelA lay, ready to be slaughtered. The actual act of sacrifice took place during the Hajj performed in the times of IshmaelA when the Hajj pilgrims offered their sacrifices. From that day onwards the commemoration continues unending. The holy Quran says:

Al-Quran That was indeed a trying test. So We ransomed him for a great sacrifice and left Surah Saffat-37 (his memory) for posterity. Verse: 106-107

The episode of IshmaelA's sacrifice does not end here. It raises many questions. It is also God's wish that questions must be raised and people should ponder and think to seek answers. The Holy Quran calls people's attention repeatedly about this:

Al-Quran Surah An'am-6 Will you not reflect? Verse: 50

Al-Quran Surah Nahl-16 They may haply reflect. Verse: 44

Al-Quran Surah Younis-10 Indeed there are signs in this for those who listen. Verse: 67

Al-Quran Surah Ra'ad-13 In these are signs for those who reflect. Verses: 3

Al-Quran Surah Ibrahim-14 That men of wisdom may reflect. Verses: 52

Indeed there are questions regarding IshmaelA's sacrifice, which may arise in one's mind like, why did God order AbrahamA to offer his son in sacrifice, while in Monotheist religions never has human sacrifice been admissible? Or how was IshmaelA ransomed for a great sacrifice ( ) in light of Quranic verse:

Al-Quran Surah Saffat-37 So we ransomed him for a great sacrifice ( ). Verse: 107

Traditions state that God sent a sheep to be slaughtered in place of IshmaelA and put-off this great manifestation of "Surrender to His Will", to a future date as a great sacrifice ( ). But the Question arise, can a sheep be a replacement for a great prophet of God? A sheep as a replacement for a spiritually elevated great human being?

Question also arises, what was God's wisdom, behind this grandly celebrated and commemorated episode of sacrifice? Was it only that believers all around the world should sacrifice millions of animals on this day and call it Grand Sacrifice ? Certainly God's act cannot be without

115 solid logic and reasoning. What logic we discover in this slaughter of animals so as to label it as Grand Sacrifice ( )?

In an attempt to search answers to these questions, let us try to discover how lovingly God accepted this extreme show of devotion from AbrahamA and IshmaelA, and how he rewarded them. Holy Quran says:

Al-Quran And left (the memory) for posterity. Peace be on Abraham, that is how We Surah Saffat-37 reward those who do good. Verse: 108-110

Al-Quran We gave guidance to Ishmael, Elisha and Jonah and lot. And We favoured Surah An'am-6 them over other people of world. Verse: 86 Remember when his Lord tried Abraham by a number of commands which he Al-Quran fulfilled. God said to him: “I will make you an Imam (leader) among men”. Surah Al-Baqarah-2 And when Abraham asked: “from my progeny too”? The Lord said: “My Verse: 124 Pledge does not include transgressors”.

Thus the great reward blessed by God on AbrahamA was the grant of Imamat to him and to the righteous in his progeny. It is worth pondering that for 2500 years there was neither any prophet nor any Imam in progeny of his son IshmaelA. MohammadS was the first prophet in this lineage and therefore the Imams promised by God had to be in the lineage of MohammadS. Furthermore the rewards were not alone, they were accompanied by trials. Prophet MohammadS himself and the Imams in his lineage, all of them underwent great trials. But the Imam who was made a “Ransom” for IshmaelA underwent the greatest trial accompanied by grandest reward.

It was also revealed to AbrahamA that knowledge, wisdom and governance will be bestowed upon his deserving descendents. AbrahamA was also told that in future Mecca will emerge as a great city and will be fully inhabited, and will be known as a city of Peace.

He was also told that the last prophet on earth will, be a descendent of IshmaelA. If all these tidings are taken as reward and good news, then the word “Ransom for great sacrifice” ( ) is also a part of this series of rewards.

It should be clearly understood that Divine Order or Command was to offer the sacrifice and was not to slaughter. God had tested the ultimate limits of father and son's submission and compliance. When the moment of compliance arrived and the knife was about to move on IshmaelA's throat, God rescued IshmaelA and a sheep was slaughtered instead. This was to provide a mode of commemoration of this event to the believers by sacrificing an animal.

The Divine Will was not execution of a son by his father, as He had ordained that IshmaelA's descendents will live till the Doomsday, the last prophet was to be born in his lineage and the Imams including the last Imam would all be in his lineage too. The religion to be preached by this last prophet was to flourish and exist till the last day of existence as it was to be perfect and complete.

Various Hadith (traditions of prophet MohammadS) state that Imams in the lineage of IshmaelA were the carriers of Light of MohammadS; they all remained firm in their faith. Therefore if the 116 promise of God was true, and it has to be true, that the great manifestation of “Surrender to the Will of God” which was put-off for a future date at the time of IshmaelA's sacrifice, had to be fulfilled by either prophet MohammadS or the Imams in his lineage. Who fulfilled it?

First of all, we don't find any Hadith of the Holy prophet stating that the sheep which replaced IshmaelA was actually the ransom. On the other hand, the fact that God commanded "Human sacrifice" provides a lead that the ransom (whenever it occurs) could only be a human being.

Secondly, ( ) the "Great Sacrifice" is a phrase of the language spoken in 2500 BC i.e, AbrahamA's times and it represent a specific person. Quran has used such phrases else-where also, like the word "Ahmed" which is a word of Syrianic language (spoken in the times of Jesus ChristA). Its' Arabic equivalent is Mohammad. See Al-Quran 61:6 and New Testament, Gospel St. John 14:16, 15:26 and 16:7.

Thirdly a study of history of Prophet MohammadS's times and later era, brings to light only one case where the magnitude and level of sacrifice (to “Surrender to the Will of God”) reaches to such heights that it becomes impossible (for any neutral mind of any belief) to deny it as the grandest sacrifice ever made. The person making this sacrifice was the third Imam in the lineage of MohammadS, Hussain-ibne-AliA, in the battle-field of Karbala. The ransom promised by God was therefore Imam HussainA and all those who were with him in Karbala, who offered their lives including those who survived and upheld the "Religion of God" at all costs.

These facts make it easy to understand the logic and purpose of God Almighty in making AbrahamA do the most unusual act of sacrificing his own son, then God Almighty putting off IshmaelA‟s sacrifice for a future date and saving IshmaelA by the slaughter of a sheep, and then God Almighty commanding to celebrate the ransoming every year for unlimited time (so as to keep it's memory alive).

The logic of God Almighty unfurled when the time came for the actual ransom to take place, about 2500 years after the incident of IshmaelA's sacrifice. It was then that the “Religion of God” brought by his last prophet MohammadS was getting mutilated, defaced and its' fundamentals destroyed by the ruling monarch Yazid who was adamant to mould it according to his own wishes. At such a time when no one had the heart to stand against the Yazid's cruel and torturous ways, Imam HussainA stood up single-handedly to save the Religion of God and put up a grandest example of total surrender to the Will of God. On his way to Karbala, in his sermons, Imam spoke about this aspect of his resolve.

It was therefore God's Will that memory of the Grand Sacrifice ( ) must be kept alive so that true tenets of the Religion of God (Islam) do not submerge in the sea of hypocrisy but are available, as a minaret of light, to all truth seekers.

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IshmaelA settled down in Mecca:

After the incident of sacrifice of IshmaelA, prophet AbrahamA stayed for some time in Mecca and then left for Canaan. He left IshmaelA in Mecca as his representative.

Traditions say that after the birth of IsaacA (the second son of AbrahamA) IshmaelA and his mother Hagar were taken to Canaan once by prophet AbrahamA. Besides, it is also said that whenever AbrahamA went to Mecca for Hajj, he always took his wife Sarah and son IsaacA along. They stayed with IshmaelA in Mecca. It is also said that the elder son of IsaacA (Eseau) married the daughter of IshmaelA.

But the Jewish and Christian books speak about rivalry and jealousy between Sarah and Hagar and their kids. These writings appear unfounded in light of good family relations between them.

The Covering of Ka’ba:

After the House of God (Ka’ba) was constructed, its' maintenance became important. Regarding maintenance, Arab traditions speak with praise for IshmaelA's first wife. It is said his first wife belonged to the Himyar clan and was an efficient and competent woman. Taking permission from IshmaelA she made two pretty curtains for the two doors of Ka’ba, and a covering from wool for the whole Ka’ba. Many women of the tribe helped her in this work. When pilgrims came they were impressed by the work and they decided that all pilgrims should participate and contribute in the maintenance of Ka’ba. Hence it was decided everyone will bring an offering and gift for this purpose. With the next year's contribution IshmaelA was able to carry out repairs, and from the offering of animals food was prepared for the pilgrims for three days of Hajj. This example was followed for centuries by the descendents of IshmaelA.

Death of Hagar:

IshmaelA lived near the sacred walls of the Ka’ba, the same place which is now called “Hijr-e- Ishmael” (House of IshmaelA). His mother died in the same house. She was buried in its courtyard and four walls were built for the grave's safety. After Hagar's death AbrahamA visited his son many times. Ultimately time came when AbrahamA did not turn up and Angel Gabriel informed IshmaelA about his demise and consoled him in his sorrow.

IshmaelA and His Teaching:

IshmaelA never went out of Mecca for preaching, as no such thing is mentioned in Arab History. Perhaps the reasons are two. Firstly, because he was made prophet for Mecca and its surroundings. Secondly, since the time of AdamA, Ka’ba had been a centre of worship of all Monotheists faiths. It was the first place of worship on earth. 118

But the descendents of NoahA after passage of centuries lost sight of their real faith and became transgressors, yet they too paid visit to Ka’ba held it as the centre of worship, and visited it annually. Their Hajj was limited to circumambulation of the Ka’ba and offering animals as sacrifice.

The rituals of Hajj as followed today by Muslims are the same as were formulated by AbrahamA after he had re-constructed Ka’ba. The followers of AbrahamA and his faith thereafter started paying annual visit to Ka’ba and performing Hajj. Due to the arrival of the pilgrims in larger numbers, Mecca soon developed into a progressive trade city.

For IshmaelA, Mecca thus became the most appropriate place for preaching of God's religion. This was the main reason of IshmaelA staying in Mecca and not travelling as his father. The House of God became his centre of Monotheist teachings. As people from all surrounding lands visited Ka’ba IshmaelA preached and invited them to Islam. History speaks about the effectiveness of this system as more and more people of the region followed Islam the religion of AbrahamA.

The prayers of AbrahamA and IshmaelA which they uttered during the construction of Ka’ba, were heard by their Lord, and fulfilled in due time.

Amongst these is the special prayer known as “Dua-e-Khalil” (the prayer of a friend of Allah) which is most impressive and effective. This Volume-2 should really have started with this prayer as it is the best introduction for Muhammad MustafaS, the last prophet of God and his Ummah.

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Chapter - 3 Race of IshmaelA

When AbrahamA was raising the plinth of the House of God with IshmaelA, he prayed:

Al-Quran Accept this from us, O Lord, for you hear and know everything. And make us Surah Al-Baqarah-2 submit, to your Will, and our progeny a people submissive (Muslims) to You. Verse: 127-128 Teach us the way of worship and forgive our trespasses, for you are

Compassionate and Merciful. A Then Abraham requested: Al-Quran And send to them, O Lord, an apostle from among them to impart Your Surah Al-Baqarah-2 Message to them, and teach them the Book and the wisdom, and correct them Verse: 129 in every way, for indeed You are Mighty and Wise.

This prayer of AbrahamA and IshmaelA actually represents a brief history of their descendents who lived during the period between 1900 BC to 570 AD (nearly two thousands and five hundred years) in Arabian Peninsula, for whom AbrahamA prayed to be Muslims (submissive to God).

This prayer is most eloquent, most effective, and a combination of many prayers. It is infact one of the most impressive prayers in the Holy Quran.

While building the House of God, both the respected prophets worked hard humbly, but they prayed to their Lord with full conviction of a devotee with the confidence that He will hear and understand their heart-felt desire. The contents of the prayer do indeed provide a proof of the nobility and loftiness of their characters.

The wordings of the prayer also show that it was exclusively for IshmaelA and his progeny. AbrahamA's prayers for his other son, IsaacA, are narrated elsewhere.

The desire of AbrahamA of a Muslim Ummah from the progeny of IshmaelA, and the birth of a prophet from amongst them, was a wish of AbrahamA which he uttered and his Lord heard (fulfilled and accepted).

Historians may write whatever they like but according to this prayer of AbrahamA, authenticated by Quran, right from IshmaelA to prophet MohammadS, the lineage has to be Muslim (those who submitted to God). This is the firm belief of the Imams in the lineage of MohammadS and also the belief of those religious researchers who have probed the subject with diligence and open mind.

Imam AliA who was given the title “Gateway to the City of knowledge” by prophet MohammadS, spoke on the genealogy of prophets in his sermon:

Nahj-al-Balagha He the Almighty kept the prophets lineage in the best of security and the finest Sermen: 92 of abodes and this lineage progressed through conception of virtuous chaste

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women by their virtuous righteous husbands.

Nahj-al-Balagha About the holy prophet MohammadS, Imam AliR says: Sermen: 92 His lineage was excellent and it had descended through the finest of his tribe and tribesmen.

Right from the beginning wherever and whenever human race branched out, the most pious and excellent branch was the one through which the Holy Prophet's lineage and genealogy descended.

There was not a single, sinful, vicious evil person nor an impious transgressor in the lineage which gave birth to prophet MohammadS.

Race of IshmaelA (Arab-ul-Mustariba):

God told AbrahamA:

Bible, Birth I heard your prayer in favor of Ishmael. See I will bless him with prosperity and Chapter: 17 good fortune, he will be a fortunate lucky person. His descendents will increase and twelve great chieftains will take power, they will form a great nation.

This prophecy of Holy Bible was fulfilled as is proved by the history of Arabs. IshmaelA had twelve sons who became chiefs of their tribes; their descendents are called “Arab- ul-Mustariba”.

We have already spoken briefly about God's Will to keep spot-lessly pure the lineage which gave birth to prophets. So even among the sinning populations, if a prophet was to be born, his lineage was kept pure by the Almighty God. It never happened that the entire population would be of sinners including the lineage which would give birth to a prophet. The case of prophet NoahA is a good example. The people of NoahA were the worst race where the entire population had turned sinners. The only exemptions were Prophet NoahA (who belonged to the pure lineage of Prophets) and only a few righteous souls who followed NoahA.

Similar was the case of AbrahamA, who belonged to the pious lineage descending from NoahA. He had only a few followers, whereas the entire population had turned sinners.

The holy Quran elaborates this position by calling AbrahamA a Shia ( ) of NoahA (belonging to the creed of NoahA). Moreover Quran uses a plural.

Al-Quran And indeed Abraham was a Shia ( ) of Noah, when he came to his Lord Surah Saffat-37 Verse: 83-84 with a heart compliant.

The use of plural for followers meaning all those who came down as prophets between NoahA and AbrahamA, indicates that they were all from the same creed.

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It therefore becomes easy to understand that through their prayer AbrahamA and IshmaelA wished a lineage of descendents who would submit to God and would ultimately give birth to Prophet MohammadS and the Imams in the family.

This was a continuation of AbrahamA's prayer when he had pleaded God for grant of a Salih ( ) (righteous) son. God had accepted his prayer and had given him the good news of a son (clement son IshmaelA).

Quran says:

Al-Quran (Abraham prayed): "O Lord, grant me a righteous ( ) son". Surah Saffat-37 Verse: 100-101 So We gave him the good news of a clement son (Ishmael).

The progeny of IshmaelA and Muslim Ummah:

IshmaelA has been given the title of Dhabih-Allah (who sacrificed himself for God).

“He is the prophet who is called virtuous, submissive and patient”.

His twelve sons grew up under his guidance to become men of extraordinary qualities. They built their houses around Ka’ba and IshmaelA thanked God, happy to see his future generations flourishing. The dissolute barren land of Mecca soon changed into a sprawling city. The descendents and followers of IshmaelA held fast to their commitment of submission to God. In return, God blessed them and their city with affluence, prosperity and above all peace. Holy Quran says, highlighting this fact:

Al-Quran Do they not see that We have given them a safe sanctuary, while around them Surah Ankabut-29 men are being despoiled? Verse: 67

Arab tradition is that the foundation of Mecca was actually laid on the day when this waste land and barren spot received the Divine Gift of spring of Zam Zam and the infant IshmaelA, who grew up to earn the titles of a prophet, apostle and ancestor of a Muslim Ummah.

Spirit of Islam History relates that the first settler of Mecca or Becca was a Jashamy tribal Syed Ameer Ali chief Muffaz Bin Umr. It was his daughter who became the first wife of Page: 62 IshmaelA, while the second wife of IshmaelA was the daughter of a Humyari chief.

Both these clans were Qhtany Arabs, and their native land was Mesopotamia (Iraq) where AbrahamA too had lived for some time. Both of them i.e, Qhtany Arabs and progeny of AbrahamA were descendents of Arphaxad Bin Shem Bin NoahA. Hence the lineage and offspring's of IshmaelA were Semitic.

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History confirms that Mecca city was established first and Ka’ba was constructed afterwards. This House of God was built by AbrahamA and IshmaelA on the same foundations laid down by AdamA earlier, as Quran says:

Al-Quran The first House of God to be set up for people was at Bakkah the blessed, a Surah Al-i-Imran-3 Verse: 96 guidance for the people of the world.

Ka’ba was the most revered spot for AdamA's descendents as well as the Arabs, therefore Mecca became the most important city of Arabia. AbrahamA after the completion of Ka’ba construction left for Canaan, and appointed IshmaelA its custodian and Trustee. This was in accordance with the Divine Will.

IshmaelA looked after Ka’ba for more than a century. The followers of AbrahamA soon started to arrive annually for Hajj (pilgrimage). For their traveling soon a route was directly made from Canaan to Mecca. This linking road became a trading route and all caravans of merchants traveling between Yemen , India, Persia, Egypt, Canaan and Iraq started using this route. Thus Mecca developed into a big trading center. AbrahamA's prayer was thus granted.

Al-Quran And when Abraham said: "O Lord, make this a city of peace, and give those of Surah Baqarah-2 it's citizens who believe in God and the last Day, fruits for food". He answered: Verse: 126 "To those will I also give a little for a time, who believes not. Then drag them to hell, a dreadful destination".

Historians are surprised at how only Mecca and not Arabia remained comparatively safe and peaceful from the unrest and conflicts, from invasions and skirmishes of the surrounding region and tribes for centuries. Whereas lands were invaded, battles fought, cities plundered, and human blood- shed due to infighting of the power full neighboring warrior tribes all around the boundaries of Arabia.

Indeed this was a Divine Blessing as the House of God stood gracefully in the centre of the city. As long as the generations of IshmaelA's progeny remained Monotheists and steadfast in their faith, God showered on them Bounties and they lived under His Divine Blessings. They followed relentlessly the religion of AbrahamA, which came to be known as "Deen-e-Hanif Ibrahim" ( ).

From this Monotheists centre IshmaelA preached for many years and those who arrived on pilgrimage were taught the faith of AbrahamA. IshmaelA being the custodian and trustee of Ka’ba, looked after its maintenance. He and his male family members repaired the House, while his wives and daughters made curtains for the doors and covering of the House from wool woven from their personal sheep.

Every year pilgrims arrived and their numbers increased. IshmaelA and his sons tended to their needs. They supervised the arrangements for their stay and provided them with food.

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After IshmaelA his eldest son Nabat became the trustee and after him the trusteeship came into the hands of his able descendents. Thus the custodianship of Ka’ba remained generation after generation with the virtuous off springs of IshmaelA.

These were the Muslims and Muslim Ummah, for which AbrahamA and IshmaelA had prayed for. They held this leadership till 6th century BC for nearly 1300 years as followers of AbrahamA's faith ( ).

Given below is a brief time-line and a family tree of IshmaelA's descendents, the Muslim Ummah, including the birth of the last prophet MohammadS and the Imams in his lineage.

Before Christ: Before ChristA Era Brief Details Year Banu Jarhm and Banu AbrahamA brought Hagar and his elder son 1850 BC till 605 BC Ishmael. IshmaelA to Mecca in 1900 BC. Banu Jarhm settled down here. In the coming three centuries the descendents of IshmaelA became so powerful that they over powered Banu Jarhm.

605 BC. Invasion of Babylonian In the initial years of 7th century BC Emperor Emperor Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon Nebuchadnezzar attacked Mecca, Banu Ishmael were weakened and Banu Jarhm took control of Mecca. 605 BC. Banu Jarhm Banu Jarhm remained in control for a short Banu Khaza‟a period, then a tribe from Yemen (Banu Khaza‟a) invaded and defeating Banu Jarhm took control. Chief of this tribe started idol- worship and put idols in Ka’ba. After Christ: Year Name Brief Details

1st century AD. Adnaan. Married a daughter of the chief of Jarhm tribe and brought unity to both the tribes' i.e, Banu Jarhm and Banu Ishmael.

2nd century AD. Ma'd. Fore-father of Banu Ishmael.

3rd century AD. Fahr (Quraiysh). Fahr was in the third generation of Ma'd and was the founder of Quresh Tribe.

Birth: 398 AD. Qasya Bin Kalab. He was in the 6th generation of Fahr. He Death: 480 AD. married the daughter of the last chief of Bani-Khaza‟a and took back the custody of the Ka’ba.

Abdul Dar He was appointed Qasya's heir during his life time.

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Abdul Munaf Brother of Abdul Dar who succeeded him.

1. Abdul Shams Authority was transferred among four (4) sons of Abdul- Munaf from one to the other: Son of Abdul Munaf, he handed over all authority to Hashim.

Birth: unknown. 2. Hashim He was given authority by Abdul Shams but Death: 510 AD. Umayya, the son of Abd-Shams was claimant so he fought with his uncle. The elders of Mecca banished him from Mecca for ten years, and authority remained with Hashim.

Hashim died in the city of Ghaza where he was on a business trip. His son was born there after his father's death and his mother named him Sheeba-tul-Hamd (Sheba).

Birth: unknown. 3. Muttalib After Hashim he got all authority. Death: 520 AD. Nwfil, his brother, also gave up his authority to Muttalib. When Muttalib, brought his nephew from Gaza, the Meccans thought he had brought a slave hence he was called Abdul Muttalib and his birth name Sheeba- tul-Hamd was almost forgotten.

Birth: unknown. Abdul Muttalib Son of Hashim, discovered the well of Zam Death: 579 AD. Zam, distributed the duties and administration of Ka’ba.

Birth: 545 AD. Abdullah Youngest son of Abdul Muttalib. He was Death: 570 AD. married to the best girl of the family, Amna binte Wahab bin Abd Munaf. He died young at the age of 25 and his son MohammadS was born after his death.

570 AD. King of Yemen Abraha- He arrived on elephants to attack Ka’ba but ul-Ashram attacked was destroyed by Divine Chastisement. From Ka’ba. this incidence the year of the elephant started.

August 570 AD. Birth of the holy prophet Prior to the birth of holy prophet 12th or 17th MohammadS. MohammadS, his father Abdullah had died. Rabi-ul-Awwal. His mother also died when he was six years old. His grandfather Abdul Muttalib died when prophet was nine years old, then his 125

uncle Abu Talib became his guardian.

Birth: 540 AD. Abu Talib He was the real brother of the holy prophet's Death: 620 AD. father Abdullah, this was the reason his grandfather made Abu Talib his guardian.

580 AD. First journey and meeting Abu Talib was a merchant and traveled to of Priest Baheera. Syria and Yemen. At the age of ten the prophet traveled for the first time with him. It was in this journey that he met priest Baheera for the first and last time.

595 AD. Marriage with KhadijaR. At the age of 25 prophet married KhadijaR who was called Queen of Arabia because of her riches from trading. 597 AD. Birth of first son Qasim. A son was born to MohammadS and KhadijaR two years after their marriage, he died an infant.

Birth: unknown. Birth of second son Another son was born and named Abdullah, Abdullah. he died too as an infant. His date of birth is controversial.

600 AD Birth of AliA. Father Abu TalibR, mother Fatima-binte- Asad Born inside Ka’ba.

610 AD. First Revelation In the 27th night of Rajab, Angel Gabriel (40th year of the (Apostleship of Holy arrived with the first Revelation. elephant). Prophet began).

610 AD. Birth of Fatima. His daughter Fatima was born the same year, another tradition states she was born in 614 AD.

612 AD. Acceptance of Islam by Two years after the Revelation only the prophet's family. prophet's family members accepted Islam chief among them were his wife KhadijaR, his cousins AliA, Jaffar and Zaid.

612 AD. Abu-BakrR's acceptance The first to accept Islam outside of the of Islam. prophet's family was Abu-BakrR.

612 AD. Dinner of Zul-Asheera. (Invitation) call to his relatives to accept Islam.

613 AD. Proclamation from the Proclamation of prophet-hood from the hill of Saffa. hilltop of Saffa and invitation to all Meccans to accept Islam.

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615 AD. Migration to Abyssinia. Migration of Muslims to Abyssinia across south west shores of Arabia. It was ruled by a Christian king Najashy and gave asylum to the group of Muslims persecuted by infidels of Mecca.

615 AD. Hamza the uncle of The uncle of the prophet, Hamza accepted Prophet. Islam.

616 AD. Umer FarooqR. Conversion of Umer FarooqR to Islam (he was to be the second Caliph) he was 27 years old when he accepted Islam.

617 AD, to 620 AD. Social and economical After a long persecution of over 5 years of (7th year to 10th year boycott of Banu Hashim Muslims by Meccan infidels, when they of revelation). by infidels of Mecca. failed to stop Islam from spreading, they severed all social, political and economical relations with Banu Hashim (the clan of the prophet). Banu Hashim were forced to leave the city and take refuge in the mountains. There they were besieged for a period of three years.

619 or 620 AD. Death of KhadijaR and When Banu Hashim returned to their homes Abu TalibR. after three years the same year KhadijaR and Abu TalibR died. The year was called "The year of grief".

620 AD. Taif and preaching of In the south east of Mecca is the town of Islam. Taif. After losing all hopes of Mecca, the holy prophet traveled to Taif to preach. The residents of Taif treated him badly and forced him to leave town.

620 AD. Conversion of Jinns to On his return the holy prophet met a group of Islam. Jinns who accepted Islam at Nakhla.

621 AD. Revelation of Surah This shortest but most eloquent Surah was Kausar (chapter 108 of revealed in which the prophet was given the Quran). tiding of grant of abundant offsprings to him and the cutting off of the lineage of his enemy. This was when his enemy taunted him about the end of his lineage after the death of both of his sons.

621 AD. First oath of allegiance at Some residents of Yathrab (Medina) took Uqba (Bayt Uqba Ula). oath of allegiance with the holy prophet.

621 AD. M’iraj or the Ascension God summoned the holy prophet from Ka’ba 127

of the holy prophet. to the Mosque Aqsa (last limits of heaven) so that he could witness the Powers and Signs of Almighty God.

621 AD. Marriage with SaudaR. After the death of KhadijaR the holy prophet married SaudaR a widow.

621 AD. Nikah with AyeshaR. Few days after his marriage the prophet had Nikah with AyeshaR daughter of Abu-BakrR. 622 AD. Second oath of allegiance More residents of Medina, 25 in number at Uqba (Bayt Uqba accepted Islam at Uqba. Previously only a Thani). few had done so.

622 AD. Miracle of Division of the Division of the moon was one of the greatest Moon. miracle of the holy prophet and a proof of his prophet-hood. Even this sign was rejected by the Quraish unbelievers.

June 622 AD. Migration of prophet Following the Divine instructions the prophet Rabi-ul-Awwal. from Mecca to Medina. made AliA sleep in his bed, and left Mecca with Abu BakrR in midnight. After a few days of secret journey, they reached a small settlement in the south of Medina i.e, Quba. Here he waited for AliA, and built the first mosque called Mosque of Quba.

Year Name Brief Details

(622 AD, Start of Hijri calendar Before leaving from Quba and before 2nd July), Friday. Entry into Yathrab entering Medina, the Friday congregation Rabi-ul-Awwal 16. (Medina). was held in the neighborhood of Bani Salem, and then Prophet entered Medina.

1st Hijri, Construction of First preference was given to the 622 AD. Masjid-e-Nabavi. construction of a mosque in Medina. It was Friday. named Masjid-e-Nabavi.

1st Hijri Medina Pact of Alliance. A pact of alliance was signed between July 622 AD. Muslins and non-Muslim tribes living in and around Medina.

1st Hijri Change of direction of Instead of Bait-al-Maqdas the direction of 622 AD. Qibla. Qibla was changed to Ka’ba.

2nd Hijri. Fasting. Fasting was made mandatory for Muslims 623 AD, Shabaan. for one full month.

2nd Hijri, Battle of Badar. Meccan unbelievers attacked Muslims but 623 AD. lost. This was the first battle fought under the 128

Ramzan. command of the prophet in self defense.

2nd Hijri. Eid-ul-Fitr. At the end of Ramadan fasting Eid was 623 AD. celebrated (as a festival). Special prayers 1st Shawaal. were offered and special alms were given to the poor i.e, Fitra.

2nd Hijri Banishment of Banu After Battle of Badar, the Jews of Banu 623 AD. Qayqaa Jewish tribe. Qayqaa tribe were banished from Yathrab Shawaal. (Medina) as they defied the peace pact.

2nd Hijri Consummation of Prophet brought AyeshaR to his house, her 623 AD. AyeshaR's Nikah. Nikah was ceremonized in Mecca, yet the Shawaal. consummation of marriage took place at Medina.

2nd Hijri Marriage of AliA and Prophet MohammadS married his daughter 623 AD, Zil-Hajjah. FatimaA. FatimaA with his cousin AliA.

2nd Hijri Death of first Mohajrin The first Mohajir companion of the prophet 623 AD, Zil-Hajjah. (migrants) of Islam. Uthman Bin Maz'oon died in Medina.

2nd Hijri, Eid-ul-Azha. On 10th Zil-Hajj, Muslims celebrated Eid-ul- 623 AD. Azha at Medina and offered Eid prayers. 10th Zil-Hajjah.

2nd Hijri, Attack of Abu-Suffyan. Abu-Suffyan attacked the border region of 623 AD. Ghazwah Aswyq. Medina and quickly retreated after causing Zil-Hajjah. destruction and blood-shed.

3rd Hijri, Birth of HassanA. First grandson of the prophet and son of AliA 614 AD. and FatimaA, HassanA was born. 15th Ramzan.

3rd Hijri, Battle of Uhad. Abu-Suffyan attacked Medina in full force 624 AD. with his supporting tribes, but did not win. It Shawaal. was the second battle fought by Prophet MohammadS in self-defense.

3rd Hijri, Banishment of Jewish Due to their treachery and defiance of peace 625 AD. tribe Banu-Nadyr. pact, the tribe of Banu Nadyr were banished Rabi-ul-Awwal. from Medina. 4th Hijri, Death of Fatima Bint'e Fatima Bint'e Asad, aunt of prophet 625 AD. Asad. MohammadS and wife of Abu TalibR and mother of AliA died. The prophet lent his coverlet as shroud and buried her himself and prayed for her soul.

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4th Hijri, Birth of HussynA. Second grandson of the prophet, HussynA 625 AD. was born to AliA and FatimaA. 3rd Shabaan.

5th Hijri, Ghazwah-e-Ahazb. Non-believers of Mecca along with their 626 AD. (Battle of the Trench). supporting tribes besieged Medina but could Shawaal. not attack because of a trench dug out by Muslims. Ultimately they had to retreat because of a storm. It was the third battle fought by Prophet in self-defense.

5th Hijri, Jewish tribe After the Battle of Trench, the Jewish tribe of 625AD, Zeeqaad. Banu Qryza (punishment) Banu Qryza of Medina were punished due to their treachery, collusion with unbelievers of Mecca and defiance of Peace Pact. They were awarded punishment according to the laws of Torah.

6th Hijri, . Ghazwah Banu  The chief of Banu Mustalaq broke the peace 627 AD. Mustalaq. pact, Prophet MohammadS retaliated and Shabaan. attacked him. He was defeated and hid in the mountains. . Javeria Bint'e Harith.  Amongst the war prisoners was his daughter Javeria Bint'e Harith. Prophet freed her and married her. . The incidence of Ifk.  On the return journey the incidence of Ifk occurred. AyeshaR was exonerated one month later when the verses of Surah Nur were revealed to the Prophet..

th 6 Hijri, Peace Pact of Hudaybiya. A peace agreement was Signed between 627 AD. Prophet MohammadS and infidels of Mecca Zeeqaad. at Hudaybiya, near Mecca.

th 7 Hijri, Ghazwah (Battle) of Last fight between Muslims and Jews, AliA 628 AD. Khyber and Orchard of led the army and conquered the fort of Saffar. Fidak. Khyber. The orchards of Fidak were conquered without fighting. According to the Quran the property of Fidak came under the property of "Fay", over which Fidak became the property of the prophet and only Prophet MohammadS had the right. He gave it as a gift to his daughter Fatima.

th 7 Hijri, Muslim Immigrants On the occasion of battle of Khyber the 628 AD. return from Abyssinia to Muslim migrants reached Medina from Safar. Medina. Abyssinya. Amongst them were Jaffar TayyarR and Umme HabibaR.

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7th Hijri, First Umrah. About one year after the peace agreement of 628 AD. Hudaybiya the holy prophet and other Zil-Hajjah. Muslims performed their first Umrah.

8th Hijri, Battle of Mauta. It was the first battle against the Byzantinian 629 AD. rulers. Three great Muslim commanders Jamad-ul-Awwal. were martyred: Zayd Bin HarithR, Jaffar TayyarR and Abdullah Bin RawahaR.

8th Hijri, Conquest of Mecca and When the Meccan unbelievers breached the 629 AD, the acceptance of Islam peace pact of Hudaybiya, Prophet Ramzan 20, Friday. by Abu-Suffyan and MohammadS marched on Mecca and Bani-Umayya. occupied the city without fighting. General amnesty was announced and no slaves were taken. Abu-Suffyan and his tribe Banu- Umayya accepted Islam.

7th Hijri, Battles of Hunayn, Otaas, The warriors tribes of Hunayn, Saqeef and 628 AD. and Taif. others who resided in the surrounding areas Shawaal. of Mecca, formed an alliance against the Muslims. A battle was then fought at Hunayn where inspite of initial setback Muslims defeated the allied forces of the tribes, who fled and took refuge in the forts of Taif and Otaas. The Muslim army besieged the forts and conquered them. Women and children of Banu Saqeef were arrested but on the request of their tribal chief they were freed. This act impressed the tribe and it converted to Islam. The people of Taif too became Muslims.

7th Hijri, Khalid Bin Walyd and The prophet sent Khalid Bin Walyd towards 628 AD. mass execution of Banu the tribe of Banu Jazyma to beckon them Jazyma. towards Islam. Khalid Biun Walyd had an old animosity with the tribe, taking advantage of the situation he got a large number killed through deceit. The prophet was extremely angry, he sent AliA with compensation money for this act. 8th Hijri, Birth of Ibrahim. The Egyptian ruler Maquqas sent some gifts 629 AD. and a respectable lady Marya Qubtya. The prophet accepted and married her; she gave birth to a son Ibrahim who died at the age of 1 year 3 months.

8th Hijri, Expedition of Dhat-ul- Two Christian tribes Banu Qada'a and Banu 629 AD. Slasil. Qyn prepared for attack on Medina. AliA was sent to fight them and he defeated them.

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8th Hijri. House of Swalam The hypocrites use to gather at the house of 629 AD. demolished. Swalm to conspire against Muslims. Her Jamad-us-Sany. house was demolished.

8th Hijri Mosque Dharar Hypocrites built their own mosque, called 629 AD. demolished. Mosque of Dharar, to conspire against Ramzan. Muslims. Prophet MohammadS ordered to demolish this mosque also.

8th Hijri, Expedition of Tabuk. The prophet took an army against the 629 AD. Romans and Ghussani rulers and left AliA in Ramzan. Medina as incharge.

8th Hijri, Expedition of Banu Tay AliA went for the admonition of Banu-Tay 629 AD. and their chief Adi-bin- and returned successful. The whole tribe And Rajab. Hatim Taiye. their chief Adi-bin-Hatim Taiye accepted Islam.

Entry of non-Muslims Till 9th Hijri the Arabs including infidels and 9th Hijri, into Ka’ba banned. idolaters, all used to perform Hajj together 630 AD. according to their own customs. But after the Zil-Hajjah. revelation of Surah Bara'at (Tauba), prophet MohammadS sent AliA to make the important announcement infront of the congregation of pilgrims in Ka’ba, that after this Hajj, the entry of all non-Muslims into Ka’ba would be banned.

10th Hijri, 631 AD. Year of coming of After the Prophet returned from Tabuk, Zil-Hajjah. delegations. (Aamul- various Arab tribes who had not accepted wafud). Islam yet, sent their delegations to Prophet MohammadS. Majority of them accepted Islam. 10th Hijri. Delegation of Najran The delegation of Christians from Najran did 631 AD. Christians and not accept Islam but chose to debate with Mubahilah. Prophet MohammadS. When they were losing the debate, they challenged MohammadS for Mubahila (each party praying for curse of God on the opponent). But then they also abandoned Mubahila.

10th Hijri, Yemen tribes accept The major tribes of Yemen Kindah, Daws, 631 AD Islam. Asharys and Hamdan accepted Islam. At the time of Hajj their delegates came to Mecca and performed Hajj, this was the last delegation which came with Ali to Mecca and met the prophet.

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10th Hijri, 631AD. Hajjat-ul-Wid'a and Last After the last victory of Islam over its 8th to 9th Zil-Hajjah. Sermon. opponents, God ordained the prophet and Muslims to perform Hajj. The prophet along with his wives, family members and Muslims performed his first and last Hajj, and gave his "Last Sermon of the Hajj" in Arafat. This sermon is the gist of Islamic preaching and the Divine Book Quran, for the betterment and purification of human souls.

10th Hijri, Return from Mecca and After performing Hajj, Prophet MohammadS 631 AD. sermon at Ghadeer. left Mecca. All Muslims accompanied him 14th Zil-Hajjah. upto Hajfa from where routes separate for different places. This place is also called Ghadeer-e-Khum. Prophet stopped here and ordered to call everyone back. When all were assembled, the prophet delivered a lengthy sermon. During this sermon, prophet raised the hand of AliA and announced: "Just like I am the Maula (master) of all Muslims, so is also Ali their Maula".

10th Hijri. Revelation of verses Immediately after the sermon of Ghadeer 631 AD. about completion of Angel GabrielA came with the Revelations of 14 Zil-Hajjah. Islam. the verses declaring the completion of religion of Islam and the completion of the gift of God.

10th Hijri. Return to Medina. During the last ten days of Zil-Hajj, the 631 AD. prophet and his companions returned to 28 Zil-Hajjah. Medina. They reached Medina when the sun was rising in the skies.

10th Hijri. Chastisement of Harith After Prophet's return to Medina, an Arab 631 AD. Bin Nauman Fhry. named Harith Bin Nauman Fhry, came to the (rejector of declaration of prophet and insolently rejecting Ghadeer Ghadeer). asked for Divine chastisement if it was true. Divine chastisement came in the form of a stone which dropped from sky and hit him on the head. He died on the spot.

11th Hijri, 632 AD, Preparation for departure On reaching Medina Prophet MohammadS Muharram. of Osama's army for ordered immediate departure of a powerful revenge of losses in the army towards Syria to take revenge of the battle of Mauta. martyrs of Mauta and made Osama its' commander. Included in his army were all the close companions of the Prophet except AliA. But this army did not depart and in the mean time prophet expired. 133

11th Hijri, Illness of the prophet. The prophet became ill. He suffered from 632 AD. fever and severe headache, both increased Safar. day by day.

11th Hijri, False claimants of As soon as the news of prophet's sickness 632 AD. prophet-hood. spread, the far flung areas of Arabia started Safar. having unrest. Taking advantage of the situation many false claimants of prophet- hood appeared, such as Museelmah Kazab, Taliha Asady and Aswad Asny. But due to the prudent policy of the prophet all three failed in their plans.

11th Hijri, Death of the holy The prophet died in the same sickness. He 632 AD. 28 Safar or prophet. died reciting prayer in the presence of AliA 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal. and his family members. 11th Hijri, Funeral and burial of the According to the instructions and will of the 632 AD. prophet. prophet, AliA arranged for the burial and 28 Safar or buried the prophet the same day in the same 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal. room in which he died.

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Destruction by the king of Babylon and re-emergence of Banu- IshmaelA (Fahr Qurysh):

6th century BC was the worst for the civilized population of those times, including the progeny of AbrahamA and chiefly the branches of IshmaelA's descendents.

When Nebuchadnezzar (605-562 BC) ascended the throne of Babylon, he played havoc with the civilized populations around him, by attacking nearly all neighborly settlements and rulers. He rose from Babylon and invaded Assyrians in the north with a big powerful army. After victory he demolished and raised to ground the magnificent city of Nineveh. Then he attacked the Jewish state of Palestine, destroyed it and brought back thousands of Jews as prisoners to Babylon. He completely destroyed Jerusalem and the famous temple of SolomonA (Maqdas). Not a single wall was left standing, and it became a pile of stones and rubble.

After Jerusalem he attacked Mecca. He could not damage the Ka’ba but the progeny of IshmaelA was nearly wiped-out. Those who survived became so defenceless that soon Bani Jarhm over powered them. Bani Jarhm took over the custody of Ka’ba and their chief became the powerful ruler of Mecca. Bani Ishmael were forced to stay away from Ka’ba, but retaining their Monotheist faith they developed some links with Bani Jarhm.

Bani Jarhm enjoyed this supremacy till the beginning of 3rd century BC, both in worldly and religious affairs of the region.

Then they were attacked by Banu Khaza‟a a branch of Banu Qhtan. This Arabian tribe over powered Bani Jarhm. They came from Yemen, and entered Hijaz from the south and completely annihilated the identity of Bani Jarhm from the annals of history.

They remained in power and controlled both Mecca and Ka’ba for nearly two centuries i.e, till 150 BC. Bani Ishmael had to tolerate them, and compromise with the situation.

According to Arabian history till the arrival of Banu Khaza‟a, the descendents of IshmaelA were monotheists and followed the faith of their fore-father AbrahamA.

The chief of Khaza‟a, Umru Bin Lahy Khazaa‟y was the first person who brought an idol of Hubl from Syria, and erected it in the centre of Ka’ba. Gradually many smaller idols were placed around it, and thus the Arabs of Hijaz became idol-worshippers.

However the followers of AbrahamA and IshmaelA kept their faith during this era. The elders of various clans of IshmaelA's progeny, kept on gradually strengthening their position and power. Their policy was to maintain peaceful relations with the members of the ruling class of Bani Jarhm and to strengthen their ties with Banu Khazaa (through inter-marriages). The most famous of these marriages was between a historical figure of IshmaelA's progeny, Adnan, and daughter of Bani Jarhm's chief (first century BC). Two sons were born to them Ma'ad and Lamak.

Ma'ad was the fore-father of the coming generation of Bani IshmaelA of Najd and Hijaz. Among his descendents was the famous Fahr who got the title of Qurysh. The word Qurysh is derived from

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Qarsh which means trade, as the profession of Fahr and his tribe was trading. It was during the life of Fahr Qurysh that Bani Khazaa attacked and captured Mecca from Bani Jarhm.

Qussay Bin Kalaab (398-480 AD):

Qussay Bin Kalaab is the most famous amongst the descendents of Fahar. Scholars are of the opinion that from Qussay Bin Kalaab to the Holy prophet, the historical record is reliable.

Tafseer Ibne Kaseer Historians state that the reign of the last chief Haleel of Bani Khaza‟a, was the Allama Dyar Bakry, one in which Qussay lived. Both Quraiysh and Bani Khaza‟a had friendly Ibne Hisham, relations. Haleel married his only daughter to Qussay, and made him his heir Ibne Khuldoon, and successor. Thus with this heirship, Qussay took back the trusteeship of Tareekh-e-Tabari, Ka’ba and became chief of Mecca, a position which had been the right of his Spirit of Islam fore-fathers. Syed Ameer Ali. Qussay after obtaining this position, came to the door of Ka’ba and announced

in a loud voice: Ibne Kaseer-1 “Should I worship one God or the thousands as have been installed here. I had Page: 183 no link with La'at and Uzaa. This is how a wise and intelligent person should conduct. Hence I neither worship Uzaa, nor do I pay homage to other idols”.

Qussay and the settling of Bani IshmaelA:

Centuries of oppression had scattered the race of IshmaelA, they had left Mecca and settled down in far flung areas living a life of anonymity.

After becoming the chief, the first action of Qussay was to bring back his tribe to Mecca. Leaving considerable space for pilgrimage, he made them settle down around Ka’ba. His plan was to protect Ka’ba from invasions; his descendents built strong houses around the Ka’ba. Dar-ul-Nadwah: For his own residence Qussay got a mansion built. Its main entrance opened in the courtyard of the Ka’ba. It was named Dar-ul-Nadwah and held the same position as the seat of government. It was here where Qussay held his court, in which the problems and administrative matters were discussed, decisions were taken and laws were proclaimed. It was the centre of authority and governance. Aqda-ul-Lwa': Lwa' was the name of the flag of Quraiysh. Whenever they left for an expedition, Qussay would personally tie a white cloth to the spear and hand it over to the commander of the outfit. This process was called Aqda-ul-Lwa', and it became a tradition of Arabs.

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Arrangements for the poor pilgrims (Rafadha): Since the days of AbrahamA, not only Monotheists but also infidels and non-believers came to Mecca for yearly pilgrimage. The poor among the pilgrims faced considerable problems of food and living. Qussay asked the Quraiysh to contribute and donate money for this cause. The donations were used for the boarding and lodging of poor pilgrims. This system was called "Rafadha", and it existed even in prophet's days and later. Nadwah: Besides the above mentioned arrangements, a system of water distribution amongst the citizens of the city was evolved which was called "Saqaya", and the person responsible for the key keeping was called "Hjaba". Both these duties were carried out by Qussay himself. Besides, he also worked for the welfare of people, and a smooth and efficient administration.

During this period Bani Ishmael were divided into ten clans, he made the chiefs of these clans to form a group of elders who were called “Prestigious Quraiysh ( )”. This group discussed among themselves all matters of disputes and controversies and resolved them. This brought about a unity amongst the tribe.

The God-gifted wisdom of Qussay and his administrative abilities soon brought dignity and honour to the tribe of Quraiysh and their city Mecca.

During his life time Qussay had made Abdul Dar his heir. After Abdul Dar his younger brother Abd Munaf took charge, and proved an extremely worthy successor. He gained more popularity and respect than his predecessors, and was given the title of “Moon of Batha ( )”. An Arab poet wrote about him:

History of The Quraiysh were chieftains and leaders, yet the pure essence of Quraiysh Ibne Khuldoon spirit was Abd Munaf. Page: 176 Historians say he was a dignified person of magnificent personality and a pillar of strength for his people. He had an inscription written on a stone slab as follows: “I Mughyra Abd-Munaf Ibne Qussay order piety and kindness”.

He was a merchant by profession. He once set out for a trade journey to Syria, became sick and died there. He left behind four sons Abd-Shams, Umru (Hashim), Muttalib and Nofil.

Hashim:

After Abd-Munaf his two sons Abd-Shams and Hashim shared power and governance However Abd-Shams soon felt, he was incapable of performing his duties, so he handed over his responsibilities to his brother Hashim.

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Hashim and Umayya:

The sons of Abd-Shams did not approve their father's act, and the eldest son Umayya accused his uncle for usurping his father's powers. The elders of Quraiysh spoke in favor of Hashim and for breaching the peace and order of the city Umayya was banished from the city for ten years. This decision speaks for itself about the qualities and capabilities of Hashim.

Historians are unanimous in praising Hashim for his values, courage, boldness, humanitarianism, hospitality and generosity. He was a man of principles. His parents had named him Umru, but he became famous as “Hashim”, a title he gained for his hospitality.

The word Hashim has been derived from Hasham which is a dish of meat and bread curry. The reason for award of this title was that during his tenure a great famine struck the region. During the famine period Hashim used to get this dish prepared and fed to the needy, the poor and orphans. Thus he got the title of “Hashim” and the word became so famous in history that soon his clan was called “Banu Hashim”. When in the times of prophet MohammadS, people praised Hashim, the prophet said: “God chose Bani Kanana from Bani Ishmael, then He chose Quraiysh from Bani Kanana and from amongst Quraiysh he chose Hashim”.

No doubt Hashim was chosen by His Lord, who bestowed extra-ordinary wisdom and intelligence on him. Utilizing these divine gifts Hashim brought about reforms which proved beneficial, ethical and popular.

Quraiysh were professionally merchants and traders, but lacked organization, discipline and order. They were used to spending their wealth for pomp and show and neglected poor and needy, as a result poverty increased and wealth wasted.

Tafheem-al-Quran-6 After taking notice of the situation, Hashim put up his suggestions to the group Page: 475 of elders: 1. Every well-off family should adopt and look after a poor family. 2. Merchants should not travel throughout the year, or travel alone. They should always travel in caravans, and should travel towards Yemen in winter and to Syria in summer. 3. Friendly relations should be formed with foreign rulers and merchants, so that special privileges could be obtained.

After approval from the group of elders, Hashim appointed his brothers as emissaries to negotiate with the foreign rulers. He himself negotiated with the Ghussani ruler of Syria. His brothers negotiated separately, Abdul-Shams with the king of Abyssinia, Muttalib with the chieftains of Yemen, and Nofal with Persian and Iraqi rulers. The net result of these efforts was very positive and many privileges and concessions were secured.

Due to these actions all the four brothers gained respect in the surrounding countries and the prestige of the tribe of Quraiysh and their honor sky rocketed.

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The competence and intelligence of young Hashim, son of Abd Munaf, greatly impressed the group of elders and turned them into his great admirers and supporters.

Reforms carried out by Hashim resulted in all round improvements: 1. Poverty alleviation was possible; gradually the Quraiysh became the wealthiest amongst other tribes. 2. It became safe for trade caravans to travel from country to country. During their journey they no more had to suffer from scorching heat or freezing cold. Dacoits and robbers could no more attack them because of the security provided by caravans. Because the trade routes became safe, more and more people started travelling and going for pilgrimage to Mecca. The importance of Mecca as a trade centre therefore increased manifold.

The wise and well planned efforts of Hashim were supported by blessings of Almighty God, making the Quraiysh a prosperous and respected tribe. But as time passed majority of Quraiysh became idolaters and arrogant. Merely 100 years after Hashim, when God showered them with His grand blessings in the form of the Prophet MohammadS, they rejected him and opposed him tooth and nail. Then God reminded them of some of His favours:

Al-Quran Since the Quraiysh have been united, united to send out caravans winter and Surah Al-Quresh106 summer. Let them worship the Lord of this House, who provided them against Verses: 1-4 destitution and gave them security against fear.

The security provided by the Lord to Quraiysh was twofold. One was through the righteous and prudent actions of Hashim, and the other was through the popular respect and honor of Ka’ba, the House of God. No one dared to harm the dwellers of the Haram (Ka’ba).

If any encounter did occur the announcement that the caravan belonged to the residents of Haram was enough for the attackers to leave them in peace.

Spirit of Islam Hashim died at the age of 35, at Medina in 510AD. He had married a woman of Syed Ameer Ali Medina and left behind a son as his heir who was named "Sheba". Page: 79

Muttalib Bin Abd Munaf:

After Hashim the responsibilities of Siqayah and Rifadha were put on the shoulders of Muttalib. He performed his duties well, due to his elderly status and generosity he was called "Al-Fyz" which means "The Generous One". He had great love for his brother Hashim, hence after his death, he visited Medina in search of his nephew. Met him and requested his mother:

Tafseer My brother's son is now a grown up child, he is away from his native land and Ibne Hisham family. We belonging to a respectful family and are chief of our clan. Our Page: 145 people depend on us for their matters, hence it will be better for the child to be with his clan and family.

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The mother reluctantly let him take her son.

When he came to Mecca with the child, all who saw him thought that he had bought a slave in Medina who now accompanied him. So they called the child Abdul Muttalib (slave of Muttalib). This name became so popular among people that his original name Sheeba-tul-Hamd (or Sheba) was completely forgotten.

In 520AD when Muttalib died during a journey to Yemen, his nephew Abdul Muttalib became his heir.

Abdul Muttalib:

When the only son of Hashim (Abdul Muttalib) took up the responsibilities of his family he was only 20 or 22 years old. It was due to his intelligence and wisdom, bestowed upon him by God, that all accepted his status as a chief.

Abdul Muttalib did not like the rituals which Banu Khaza‟a had introduced when they were in power. One of them was circumambulating the Ka’ba in nude condition. So after taking charge, the first order he issued was:

“No one will circumambulate the Kabaa' naked”.

Tareekh-e-Aaimma The deviation of Banu Khaza‟a from monotheism and their acceptance of idol- Page: 81 worship had brought about a punishment on them. The well of Zam Zam had dried up, the Banu Khaza‟a chiefs had covered the well's mouth and placed two

The Life of idols Aslaf and Nayla on it. Mohammad. Abdul Muttalib removed the idols and the well was dug out. With the Divine page: 4 Blessings the dried up well became fully operative.

When Banu Khaza‟a had taken over the control of Mecca, Banu Jarhm were banished. They buried the religious relics in the ground to save them from the invaders. Abdul Muttalib discovered them and brought them back to Ka’ba.

Among the priorities set by Abdul Muttalib for himself, the first was to reorganize the administration of Ka’ba and then to protect the Zam Zam well and improve its' water distribution. Abdul Muttalib utilize the services of Group of Elders for a better management by reorganizing its' functioning. He divided the total management into 10 (ten) sub-groups. Each sub-group was headed by an Elder and the position was made hereditary, the eldest of the family had an automatic right to succeed. These elders had great influence and authority, and the one who enjoyed greatest influence and respect and was called Syed (chief). Here are the details of the sub-groups: (i). Hajaba (Superintendencey of the Ka’ba): This position was the highest and more sacred and involved the keeping of the keys of Ka’ba.

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(ii). Siqayah (Management of water supply): The controlling authority of wells sacred to Arabs, and the distribution of water. The water of the Zam Zam were solely for the use of pilgrims. (iii). Dyat (Judicial Powers): It was a judicial post which remained in the family of Taym-bin-Marrah. (iv). Safarat: Diplomatic representation of the government and management of external affairs. (v). Liwa (Possession of the Flag): It included defence of the state, protection of the flag and command of the army. This position was given to Bani Umayya.

(vi). Rafadah: (Social welfare, Charity money and its distribution): All money or contribution received from alms and charity was collected and used for the needy, the poor pilgrims and helpless traveler's. This responsibility was taken up by Abdul Muttalib himself, after him Abu Talib carried out the duties.

(vii). Nadwah: (Advisory council): The head of the Advisory Council was regarded as the chief advisor of the management. Abdul Uza Bin Qussay's family held this position. (viii). Khayma or Qabba: The person having this position held dual responsibility, to bring about the people to attend the general congregation as and when called, and to organize the fighting force in case of battles. This position remained in the family of Makhzum Bin Mara.

(ix). Khazina (Finance and Treasury): This position was held by Hasan-bin-Kaab's family. (x). Izlaam: The protection of those special arrows which were used to seek the judgment and will of the idols. This position was given to Sufwan Bin Umiyya.

The Arabs are by nature proud people, when the custody of Ka’ba and responsibilities attached with it were was distributed amongst the Quraiysh, they readily accepted it and tried their best to perform their duties better than the others.

Spirit of Islam Abdul Muttalib had no brother, his father and uncle both had died earlier. He Syed Ameer Ali desired a large family. God bestowed him with ten sons and six daughters: Page: 79 Sons: 1. Harith (the eldest son who was born in 538AD). 2. Abu Lahab. 142

3. Abu Talib (who was born in 540AD). 4. Abdullah. 5. Zubyr. 6. Draar. 7. Abbas. 8. Hamza. 9. Jahm. 10. Maqum. Daughters: 1. Aatiha. 2. Amima. 3. Urwa. 4. Barah. 5. Umme-Hakim. 6. Safya.

There is a tradition related in some books of Seerat, that Abdul Muttalib had made a vow before the idols of Ka’ba that if ten or twelve sons are born to him, he will sacrifice one before them. This is a false tradition and cannot be true on many counts, namely: (i). Abdul Muttalib was a monotheist. He could not indulge in an act of idle- worship. (ii). Human sacrifice is not permissible in any Religion of God. The case of sacrifice of Prophet IshmaelA cannot be cited as example because it was a command of God and the intention was not of slaughtering IshmaelA. (iii). Why only Abdullah was taken for sacrifice, he was neither the last son nor the first?

Companions of the Elephant and Abdul Muttalib:

Al-Quran Have you not seen how your Lord dealt with the people of the elephant? Did he Al-Fiyl-105 not make their plot go wrong? And sent against them birds in flocks, which (Elephant) pelted them with pebbles of baked clay. Thus rendered them like stubble grazed (by cattle).

These few lines of one of the shortest Surahs of the Quran are an admonition and a warning while relating an incident which became so famous amongst Arabs that they made their calendar start with it, calling it "Year of Elephant".

When these verses were revealed to the prophet less than 50 years had passed to the incident and there were many elderly persons still living in Mecca who were eyewitnesses to that episode.

Abdul Muttalib, the grandfather of the prophet was the chief of Mecca and the custodian of Ka’ba at that time.

The background of this incidence goes back to 6th century AD, to the Christian state of Yemen, which was a part of the Abyssinian Empire. Then an African named Abraha was the governor of

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Yemen. On the other hand the Abyssinian Emperor was an ally of the Romans. After achieving complete control of Yemen, both the Roman and Abyssinian Emperors desired:

(i). To take control of those trade routes which passed through Arabia to reach Yemen. (ii). To end the central position and status of Ka’ba and to spread Christianity in Arabia.

To achieve these objectives Governor Abraha readily agreed to carry out the plan, as he himself wanted to appease Abyssinian and Roman Emperors.

Abraha had already got a large temple constructed in his capital city of Sana. Arab historians call this temple "Alqlys" and Greeks call it "Ekklesia", Afterwards the word changed into "Klesya" ( ). Now Abraha wanted to end the popularity and dignified status of Ka’ba. So he wrote to the Abyssinian Emperor:

"I will not rest until I change the pilgrimage of Ka’ba amongst the Arab to that of Klesya".

Then he sent his emissaries to the neighboring countries with the announcement that people should not go on pilgrimage to Ka’ba but should come to Sana. When the Arabs heard this they were furious. Some youth reached Sana and threw garbage and stones in the great (temple) Klesya.

This disrespect and insult of his worship place provided an immediate excuse to Abraha of attacking Ka’ba, he swore:

“I will not rest until I have destroyed Ka’ba”.

In short, commanding a huge army with nine elephants in the centre and he himself mounted on the biggest and most powerful elephant, he headed for Mecca.

Tafheem-al-Quran-6 In the month of Muharram in 570 AD his army camped at Arafat under the hills Page: 468 which extend upto Taif. The scene was frightening. The large army with ferocious elephants intimidated those who saw it. Even if the Arabs would have assembled together all their tribes they would have been no match for Abraha.

It is narrated by Abdullah Ibne AbbasR, when Abdul Muttalib saw all this he personally went to Abraha and asked: “Why have you come here”? He replied arrogantly: “I have heard Ka’ba is a place of peace, I have come to destroy this peace”. Abdul Muttalib replied: “Ka’ba is the House of the Lord, nobody has succeeded till now to destroy it”. Abraha arrested: “We will not return till it is destroyed”.

Mohammad Bin Ishaaq narrated that after this dialogue, Abdul Muttalib returned to Mecca and summoning the Quraiysh addressed them: “Take your women folk and children and leave for the passes in the hills, to save yourself from the destruction and ravages of the invading soldiers”. 144

After that taking the elders of the Quraiysh along with him, he came near Ka’ba and holding the handles of the door prayed:

Seerat “O God! People protect their homes, so protect your House. Tomorrow the Ibne Hisham plans of the Christian Cross should not over power your plan. O Lord! In the conflict between the believers of the Cross and your own Suhaili-Rozatul- -Anaf believers, help your believers. Abne Jarir Tabari O my Lord! Except you I have no hope of any help. O my Lord! Save and defend your House from them”.

Thus did Abdul Muttalib and other elders of Quraiysh plead. They wailed and cried, then Lord heard and brought consolation to their agitated souls, they too left for the hills. Early in the morning Abdul Muttalib sent one of his sons towards the hill called "Abu-Qabus" for surveillance, he climbed the hill and seeing what he did returned with the news.

Seerat From the north-western sea i.e. Red Sea, a black cloud is approaching. Ibne-e-Hisham. Abdul Muttalib was confident that God had heard his prayers, he happily Blagh-ul-Arab. announced: Majma-ul-Bayan. Baharul-Anwaar. “O Quraiysh! Return to your homes. God's help has arrived”.

On the other hand Abraha had reached Mecca city with great pomp and show. When he tried to make his elephant enter the city, the animal did not budge. It swayed to and fro, right and left, but did not move an inch towards Mecca.

During this time the black cloud reached the Meccan skies. It was actually a large flock of birds, who had pebbles in their beaks which they rained down on Abraha's army. It was Divine Chastisement, And it turned Abraha's great army and his elephants to look like a field full of left- overs of straw and stubble after it is gazed by cattle.

Spirit of Islam “Their bodies were changed into stuffed ones”. Syed Ameer Ali Abraha's army was mowed down to look like straw and stubble, left over after Page: 81 grazing of cattle. Not only this, a storm hit the area with its full severity. It was followed by a heavy downpour. The gushing water (as if some dam had broken up) washed away the remains of Abraha's army into the sea.

Abraha while failing to move his elephant, died after falling from it. This chastisement and frightened end of a great army was remembered well by the Arabs. The news of this occurrence also spread beyond the borders of Arabia. Arab poet wrote about it and God's Book the Holy Quran gave immortality to the incidence by the revelation of Surah 105 "Elephant".

The incidence of Abraha was an eye opener for those who considered the forefathers of Prophet MohammadS as idol-worshippers. As discussed on previous pages it was a proof that the lineage which gave birth to prophet MohammadS was kept pure and pious by Almighty God. They were the pious personalities of the Muslim Ummah in the progeny of AbrahamA. At all times, they possessed highly noble qualities and were never polytheists or idol worshippers.

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Abdullah:

He was a handsome youth of impeccable character and was loved by his parents and adorned by his family. His personality made him popular amongst the Quraiysh clan.

It is said that his father Abdul Muttalib always kept him near him, and he desired Abdullah to wed the best girl of the clan. So he chose Amna bint'e Wahab Bin Abd Munaf, and he took his son to her house, Wahab was the chief of Banu Zohra, a branch of Quraiysh tribe. He accepted the proposal happily. The marriage took place with full glory in accordance with Quraiysh traditions.

After the incident of the elephants Abdullah, the son of Abdul Muttalib, died at the age of 25. He had gone for trade to Syria. While coming back he stayed at Yathrab (Medina), where he fell ill and died. All he left was some camels, goats and a maid Umme-Aiman. This legacy was later entrusted to his son (prophet MohammadS) who was born after Abdullah's death.

Birth of Holy Prophet MohammadS:

Time never stops it went on moving days changed into weeks and weeks into months, then Abdul Muttalib heard the news he was waiting for, a son was born to Amna the wife of Abdullah (it was seven weeks after the attack of Abraha). Abdul Muttalib visited her house. The mother handed over the child to the grandfather and informed him that at the time of his birth, she had seen the morning star shining brightly in the sky. I felt my whole house was filled with Divine Light. Early in the morning the child placing both his hands on the ground bowed down his head and prostrated, seeing all this Amna prayed.

“I give him in the protection of Allah against the evils of all those who are jealous and envious”. At that joyful moment the old grandfather would certainly have wished for his son Abdullah to be alive. His love for the child, for this orphan grandson, was boundless. Seeing some signs in the infant he declared: “He is Mohammad, I name him Mohammad”.

Date and years of MohammadS's Birth:

The date of his birth is controversial amongst scholars. The most important cause of this is that the date of birth of MohammadS is often worked out with the incidence of Abraha's elephant's army and the destruction that occurred. It is believed that he was born 45 or 50 days after this incident. Thus there are three different dates of his birth popular amongst the people.

Seerat-un-Nabi According to the famous Egyptian astronomer Alim Mehmood Pasha Falky's Maulana Shibli research, the birth of prophet MohammadS was 9th Rabi-ul-Awwal on Monday, Page: 100 20th April 571 AD.

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Spirit of Islam Imamya scholars place his birth on 17th Rabi-ul-Awwal. Syed Ameer Ali The date commonly known is 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal i.e, 50 days after Abaraha's Page: 81 defeat.

According to the Quraiysh tradition his “Aqiqa” ceremony was held on seventh day after his birth. A feast was given to the tribe, where his name was announced.

This was a totally new name for the Arabs, they had never heard it before. They asked with surprise: “Why have you named him so different from that of traditional tribal name”? Abdul Muttalib replied: “I pray that he be praised both in heaven and on earth (Mohammad means the praised one)”. The Lord of Abdul Muttalib heard this prayer and accepted it. The holy Quran revealed:

Al-Quran Surah Ahzab-33 God and His angels shower their blessings on the Prophet. Verse: 56

Along with came the command:

Al-Quran O believers, you should also send your blessings on him, and salute him with a Surah Ahzab-33 Verse: 56 worthy greeting.

The mysterious experience of AmnaR and a particular name given by the grandfather indicate that both these persons were aware that the new born was not an ordinary child, so they made special arrangements for his upbringing.

Spirit of Islam According to Arab tradition the child was handed over to a wet-nurse Halima Syed Ameer Ali Page: 82 Sadia a Bedouin woman of Banu Saad clan, a branch of Hwazan tribe.

The grandfather kept his vigilance over the child's well-being. When the child was two years old he was brought back to the mother. Now he grew up in the supervision of his grandfather and mother. His appearance and virtuous qualities made him loveable by all. His charms and manners made him a centre of attraction, and in this aspect he even surpassed his father.

It is said who ever saw the child was attracted towards him and praised him, perhaps because of this his grand father and mother started calling him "Ahmed" (one who deserves praise).

Like MohammadS, Ahmed also had not been used by Arabs as a name. Both the names were new for the Arabs and the Quraiysh.

Now the question arises, where did these names come from? How did the grandfather and mother named him thus, perhaps this was also a spiritual revelation.

MohammadS is the name which is most commonly recited by Muslims in prayers. There are three testimonies in the First Kalma out of which one is MohammadS. In the call for prayer (Azaan) and In the Tashahud, the name of MohammadS is repeated. Thus prayer of each Muslim, offered

147 five times a day, contains the name of MohammadS. Imagine the repetition of this revered name on daily basis when millions of Muslims pray five time a day all over the world. This is the fulfillment of the promise God made.

Al-Quran Surah We exalted your (fame). Alam-Nashrah-94 Verse: 4

Prophecy of Jesus ChristA about the coming Prophet:

In the prophecy that Jesus ChristA had made about the coming about MohammadS he had used the name Ahmed. As the holy Quran says:

Al-Quran And when Jesus, son of Mary said: “O children of Israel, I am sent to you by Surah Al-saf-61 God to confirm the Torah (sent) before me, and to give you good tidings of an Verse: 6 apostle who will come after me, whose name is Ahmed”.

What Quran said in the above verse is supported by Bible, but because Bible has been translated into many languages, the original word “Ahmed” of Syriac (the language spoken by Jesus ChristA) has also been translated into its' equivalent words instead of retaining its' originality. The Greek translation used the word Periclytos for “Ahmed”. When translated into English, instead of Periclytos, its' corrupted version Paracletos was used which was translated into English as comforter, helper, advocate etc. The meaning of “Ahmed” in Syriac is „the praised one‟.

In the following three verses of Bible, Jesus ChristA spoke of the Prophet who will come after him. JesusA used word “Ahmed” for this prophet.

Gospel of John (Jesus said): “Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is expedient for you that I go 15:7 away, for if I don't go away, the Comforter will not come to you; but if I depart I will send him unto you”. Gospel of John (Jesus said): “But I will send you the Comforter, the spirit of truth. He will 15:26 come to you from the Father and will testify all about me”.

Gospel of John (Jesus said): “And I will pray the father and he shall give you another 14:16 Comforter that he may abide with you forever”.

The meaning of Ahmed and Mohammad are the same i.e, “Praised one”. Moreover The Holy Quran authenticates that Ahmed is the same Prophet who is called Mohammad (Al-Quran 61:6). Besides the name Ahmed has been used in Islamic literature at many places, for example:

Abu TalibR Ahmed definitely has brought a religion which is not false.

Hissan Bin SabitR God and the Angels who surround Him, and the virtuous send salutation on Ahmed. AliA Bin Abu Talib I pray for the success of Ahmed, the prophet and guide, who has been praise worthy in his childhood and in his youth.

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Christian Priests and religious scholars knew about the prophecies in the Bible about the coming of the future prophet. Similarly Jewish Rabaiis knew about such prophesies in Torah (Deuteronomy 18:18). That is why around 3rd century AD, Jewish and some Christian tribes moved over to Arabia in Medina, Najran etc. awaiting the arrival of the promised prophet. But when it did happen in seventh century AD, and prophet MohammadS declared his prophet-hood, only those Christian and Jews who had a righteous heart accepted him. Majority rejected him on the basis that prophet-hood could only come in the progeny of AbrahamA's son IsaacA and not in the progeny of his other son IshmaelA. This may perhaps be a faith-coated-excuse, the real reason may be the big danger to their economic interests and their big mafias which were exploiting religion, and reaping the rewards.

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Chapter - 4 Prophet MohammadS (AhmedS) (Birth and early years)

Certain unusual and exceptional signs occurred at the time of birth of Prophet MohammadS, which were like warnings for this occasion:

Tareekh 1. At the time of Holy Prophet's birth an earthquake hit the Palace of the Ishat-e-Islam Persian Emperor Naushirwan and fourteen turrets of his palace fell down. Deobandi 2. The Fire at the Zoroastrian temple which had been burning since eight Page: 218 centuries got extinguished. 3. The lake Sawa of Kashan which was worshipped by the people suddenly dried out. 4. The Jew scholars and sages of Medina perceived certain particular signs. They came to the Quraiysh tribal chiefs and said: “We want to see the new born in your family”. Hashim and Walyd Bin Mughira brought them to the house of Abdul Muttalib and according to their wish showed them the infant, seeing the seal of prophet hood on the child's back they said: “This infant is lucky for you. It is written in our books that his name will be Ahmed, he will be an apostle and prophet”.

Looking closely at these unusual signs we discover: This was the era when Persia had been under the rule of Naushirwan since the last forty two years. The rulers had changed the monotheistic Zoroastrian religion into polytheistic cult and people were forced to worship fire, water and natural phenomenon in place of God.

Spirit of Islam The followers of Zoroastrianism believed that a liberative or Divine voice will Page: 30 be heard from the east. The Jews were waiting for that prophet, who was to bring for them a new A Torah Shariah, (code of living) which God had promised Moses in the plains of Hawarab.

Al-Quran The Christians were awaiting the arrival of that prophet who was predicted by Surah Saff-61 Jesus ChristA. Verse: 6

The Divine signs which appeared on the holy prophet's birth were to tell the relevant quarters of the world that the Liberator and redeemer had taken birth.

Spirit of Islam The falling of the fourteen turrets of the Persian Emperor's palace was an Syed Ameer Ali indication that infidelity and tyranny in the Empire was about to vanish by Page: 82 150

bringing an end to the dynasty of fourteen Khusrau Emperors.

Rozat-ul-Ahbab-1 When the Soothsayer Astrologer Sateeh was asked about the reason of this Page: 56 falling of the fourteen turrets, he gave this reason: Seerat Halbiya-1 The number of turrets represents the number of rulers of this dynasty of Persia. Page: 83 Hyat-ul-Qalub-2 With the fall of the 14th ruler the whole country will come under the religion Page: 46 brought by the one who is born today.

Childhood of Holy Prophet and his up-bringing:

Al-Quran (O Mohammad), your Lord has neither forsaken you, nor He is displeased Surah Al-Zuha-93 (with you). Verily the end (hereafter) is better for you than the beginning Verse: 3-8 (present life). Soon your Lord will give you, so that you shall be well-pleased. Did he not find you an orphan and gave you shelter? He found you lost, so (at once) guided you. He found you in need, so (at once) made you independent.

How can one gauge the depth of God's love and benevolence for such a prophet, who was sent as a Blessing for the entire world. The above mentioned verses of the holy Quran indicate that God never left His Prophet un-cared, neither during infancy nor later.

Looking at different stages of his life, his birth, his infancy, his youth, his marriage, his difficult life in Mecca, all tell us that God was generous and more loving on this orphan of Abdullah, than even his parents could have been.

MohammadS was born an orphan, as his father had died three months prior to his birth. Those who saw the prophet grow up, apparently saw signs of his poverty, his resourcelessness as an orphan and lack of fatherly guidance; but they were not aware that this child was the first creation of the Lord, that the universe was created for him, that he was chosen from one Lac and twenty four thousand Prophets and Messengers of God and that good destined him to be the last prophet and a blessing for humanity. The moment God decided to make him a prophet, Angels sent Salutations on him.

Imam Ali in “He is the noblest and most eminent person in the Universe”. Nahj-ul-Balagha. “He was the best of Creation even in his childhood”. Sermon: 103

Sermon: 94 His benevolent God made people love him.

Sermon: 190 Right from the age of two, Angel Gabriel was appointed his guard, who made him walk the path of the exalted ones.

With all these facilitations, he was brought up in the loving care of his mother Amna, the love of his father's maid Umme-Aiman, the care of nurse Halima, and the guardianship of his grandfather. These were the Divine Bounties and Blessings which protected the Orphan from the hardships of life.

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Death of AmnaR:

Seerat-un-Nabi It is stated that when the prophet reached the age of six, his, mother paid a visit Page: 102 to her husband's grave in Yathrab (Medina). She was accompanied by her son and maid Umme-Aiman. . AmnaR visited the grave with her son for the first time. The sight aggrieved her. The sorrow of her and her son's loss depressed her so much that she fell ill. She died on her return journey, leaving her son in the custody of her maid, who brought him back to Mecca, to his grandfather.

The tragedy was hard to bear for the eighty years old grandfather, but he bore it with patience and took the orphan under his direct care, whose well-fare was now his sole interest. He kept the child near him day and night, fed him and personally looked after all his needs; the child accompanied him wherever he went. Now both spent their time together.

Life of Mohammad Abdul Muttalib was the custodian of Ka’ba, and the tribal chief. In this Page: 13 capacity he visited the Ka’ba daily. His servants threw a carpet for him to sit near the Ka’ba. All his sons, grandsons and the leading tribesmen sat around the carpet awaiting his arrival. None amongst his offspring's dared to put his hand or foot on the carpet, but the orphan MohammadS, the grandson, always arrived with his grandfather, and sat down beside him on the carpet. If any of the uncles tried to remove him from the carpet, Abdul Muttalib would forbid him and say: “Let him be near me, as in my old age he is the source of peace and consolation for my heart”. He is the possessor of a very high stature and is the Syed and chief of all the Arabs”. Abdul Muttalib often would embrace and kiss the child and utter: “I have never seen such soft cheeks as his, and have never found a more pure body as his”.

As the child grew his resemblance to his father increased, so did the love of his grandfather. Thus passed two years, Abdul Muttalib had to leave for Yemen, the reason for this journey was:

Spirit of Islam In 579AD the famous king of Yemen Zulyazan's son Saif had taken back his Syed Ameer Ali family's lost kingdom with the aid of the Persian Emperor. His coronation Page: 83 ceremony was to be held. As the chief of Quraiysh, Abdul Muttalib had to attend the ceremony to congratulate him. With a heavy heart Abdul Muttalib prepared for the journey. Before departure he embraced and kissed his grandson many a times, it was difficult for him to leave his grandson. However he called his son Abu TalibR the real uncle of MohammadS and placing the child in his custody instructed: “Protect and defend him as he is all alone. Be patient and loving as a mother to him. Keep him away from grief and hardships”. With these words he asked Abu TalibR: “O my son! Do you accept what I have said”? Abu TalibR replied: “Yes, I accept and may God be my witness”. Then Abdul Muttalib shook hands with his son and holding them firmly

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strengthened the pact between them, and then only did he embarked on his journey to Yemen. But he did not return alive from Yemen, and died on his return journey to Mecca.

Abu Talib and MohammadS:

When Abdul Muttalib died, MohammadS was only nine years old. At such a tender age he was fatherless and motherless, and now his grandfather too left him. Perhaps all these griefs were Divine Will, as God wished to hone him up but under the refuge of best love and care.

In the worldly scene he was not left unattended by his Lord. He was given a best abode of his uncle Abu TalibR who opened his doors and heart for his nephew.

Spirit of Islam The home of Abu Talib became his comforting, loving and caring abode where Syed Ameer Ali Page: 83 he received both fatherly and motherly love from Abu Talib and his wife.

Due to a special bond between the uncle and nephew, MohammadS enjoyed an exceptional status among the family members of Abu Talib.

The Quraiysh were traders by profession, Abu TalibR too was a merchant. He used to travel between Arabia, Syria and Yemen and traded in dates, perfumes and Byzantanian goods. Each year he took caravans to Syria and Yemen two times.

The Life of A few days after MohammadS took residence with Abu TalibR, it was time for Mohammad the journey. So Abu TalibR prepared to travel to Syria, as he bid farewell to his Page: 13-14 family and his nephew, MohammadS embraced him and started crying.

Abu TalibR who was leaving him behind with a heavy heart, immediately decided to take him along to Syria, so he said: “O God! I promise I will never leave him alone”.

Thus MohammadS took his first journey with his uncle to Syria.

When this trade caravan reached the border city Basra of Syria, here Abu TalibR met a priest named Bahira. The details of this meeting are given in the verses of Abu TalibR's poem. It has been quoted by Allama Suyuti in his book Khasayas-ul-Kubra and Ibne Hisham in his Seerat:

Seerat Ibne Hisham: “Thus I said to Mohammad, come happily with your uncles who are virtuous Volume-1 and sympathetic at times of distress. We all embarked with the caravan, of fortune and luck, towards Syria. Khasaysul Kubra-1 When we entered the borders of Syria, Priest Bahira arranged the well prepared feast for us. He said: “Gather all your companions and come to our feast”. We said: “All of us are here, except a boy whom we have left behind on guard”. 153

He (Bahira) said: "Call the boy, as all your honour and respect is because of him". Bahira (then) saw MohammadS coming with such magnificence that a cloud moved over his head. Bahira bowed before MohammadS and embraced him. Precisely at that moment arrived three Jews Duriys, Tamam and Zubyr, who were also in search of signs of prophet hood, those which Bahira had perceived. Those Jews (due to jealousy) had conspired to kill MohammadS, but Bahira forbade them, he tried his best to prevent them from such an act. Then Bahira advised to take the lad back as many enemies were looking to harm him. He Said: “I am afraid of these envious persons as there is much written about this lad in the ancient Holy Books”. Thus this incident was taken as a Sign of MohammadS's prophet-hood. Definitely bright day is never akin to dark night. Similarly the signs of prophet- hood were shining brightly like a day.

This was the first and the last meeting of the holy prophet with Priest Bahira. The above mentioned verses of Abu TalibR disprove the claim of European historians that it was Bahira who guided and taught the holy prophet about the secrets and mysteries of prophet-hood. These verses also show us the evidences about Bahira's faith, which he displayed by bowing devotedly before the holy prophet (though he was only a child then). Bahira's behavior shows that he was fully aware of the signs and evidence he himself had read in Torah and Bible.

These verses of Abu TalibR also indicate his faith and belief. They negate the views of some Islamic narrators that Abu TalibR never accepted Islam, and died as an Infidel. This is a great dis- service and ungratefulness to the devotion and faith of Abu TalibR.

Childhood pastimes of Holy Prophet MohammadS:

(i) Apart from the meeting with Bahira and his warning, the rest of the first journey to Syria was a pleasant one for the prophet. He found the trade journey interesting and perhaps desired more of it. Abu TalibR too felt inclined to take him along on all his future journeys. Thus he started travelling routinely to Yemen and Syria along with his uncle. (ii) All sons of Abu TalibR were younger to MohammadS, hence he was regarded like the eldest son of his uncle's family. Gradually he became the right-hand of his uncle in nearly all matters, like trade and procurement of necessities of life for the family. (iii) The city of Mecca got established by a miracle of God on a deserted waste-land. The mountains were rocky and the land barren where only wild grass and dates could grow because of water of Zam Zam. Due to the grassland people kept flocks of sheep, goats and camels. They provided meat and milk for food, and wool and hides for clothes. (iv) Abu TalibR was also an owner of many flocks and like other youngsters of the family, MohammadS also shepherded them with interest and zeal.

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(v) Among the Meccan Quraiysh the Hashemite clan was famous for its valour and courage. They were unmatched in sword-fighting, spear throwing and archery. To maintain this expertise they conducted regular practice and drills. MohammadS too took interest and an active part in this activity. Arabs used horses, mules, donkeys and camels in battles and for regular transportation. The breeding of these animals was therefore an important job, and expertise in this field was a vital asset. Abu TalibR possessed many stables for these animals, and he personally looked after them with the assistance of MohammadS. This childhood experience helped the prophet a great deal after the formation of Medina state. As MohammadS was familiar and had good knowledge about the pedigree of camels and horses, he himself inspected and placed the animals accordingly during the battle arraying. (vi) For his own necessities of life he spent only as much time as was barely essential, most of his time was spent in deep meditation. He was never seen spending time in useless and frivolous activities (like other youths) nor had any one heard him lie in his life. Hence the title of "Sadiq" (The Truthful One) was given to him since his childhood.

Seerat-un-Nabi Even prior to his declaration as a prophet he was possessing qualities of a Maulana Shibli-1 prophet right from his childhood and youthfull years. He always kept away Page: 110-111 from paganism and polytheism, and never followed their customs and

traditions. During his youth some Quraiysh offered him food which was from the offerings of the idols (that is the meat was from an animal scarified before an idol). The prophet refused to eat it. Some narrators say these incidents happened after his announcement of prophet-hood. Before that the life of MohammadS was akin to that of his tribe Quraiysh. But Maulana Shibly says:

“All such traditional narrations are wrong and fabricated, the narrators are liars”. S Sahih Bukhari Reality is that like all other apostles and prophets Mohammad also, throughout Babul Manaqib his life, never followed the rituals nor the ways of life of the infidels. He never did what was forbidden and never touched wine.

Now a day's critics have raised objections and queries regarding MohammadS's life before prophet-hood.

They ask, the parents of MohammadS, his wet nurse, his friends and companions with whom he spent his childhood, and those loved ones with whom he resided and ate, what was their faith?

(i). Weren't they all infidel and polytheists? (ii). Did they worship idols? (iii). Did they keep the idols of Uza in their homes? (iv). Did they scarifice animals before the idols and ate the meat? (v). Did they drink wine?

If the answer of these questions is in affirmative than God forbid MohammadS Was no different.

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Unfortunately, those who think on the above lines either forget or are unaware that all prophets of God lead a life to the liking of God, from cradle to their graves. They do not indulge in activities which God does not like. Above all, God guides and assists them in their resolve. Following are some examples to dispel any doubts:

Book of Daniel When Nebuchadnezzar conquered Jerusalem and massacred thousands of Jews Chapter-1 and took thousands as prisoners to Babylon, amidst these prisoners were Verses: 1-21 Daniel, Ezkeil and Ezra. Due to their knowledge and wisdom, the Emperor wanted to keep them in his court. They accepted his offer on the condition that they will not eat from the royal kitchens and will not drink wine. As according to the Shariah of MosesA, eating meat of animals scarified in the name of idols, food prepared by non-believers and wine all were forbidden. Thus they ate only vegetables and drank only water for many years for their survival. Thus did they save themselves from the ways of the infidels.

Then God bestowed upon all these four youths wisdom, spiritual powers and knowledge and placed them on the position of prophet-hood.

According to the Book of Daniel, all of them abstained from taking forbidden food and avoided polytheism and idol worship, much before prophet-hood.

Moreover the life history of apostles and prophets, does not mention any where that these prophets were fed on milk of infidel women, or they followed the ways of life of the non-believers.

Especially Quran stands witness in the case of MosesA, that when he was lifted by the Pharaoh's wife from River Nile and she decided to adopt him, she ordered to arrange a wet nurse for him. Many were brought on Queen's order in the palace, but MosesA did not suckle from any of them.

It should be kept in mind that these women were infidels and worshipped the Pharaoh, but when his real mother appeared as a nurse, he suckled the milk happily. This is how God helps and guides his chosen ones.

Imam AliA spoke about the purity and piety of Prophet MohammadS:

Nahj-ul-Balagha The gold mine from which nobility and piety sprout, reserved its' best place for Sermon 94-96 MohammadS and his birth was the best birth. His race, is the best race his tribe is the best tribe. His lineage is the best lineage and its' branches upright and Sermon 212-214 laden with fruit. In the annals of human anthropology wherever the branches branched out, the branch carrying him was the best branch. His pedigree is pure, free from the shadow of transgressor or impious persons.

It is indeed unfair and dishonest that based on false narrations some writers should put the label of infidels and idol-worshippers on prophet MohammadS, his parents, his grandfather and his real uncle Abu TalibR. It can only be ignorance or prejudice to call such devotees as Abu TalibR in whose house and under whose guidance MohammadS grew from 9 years to 25 years and Prophet's wife KhadijaR who remained his wife for 25 years were both non-believers and infidels.

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Battle of Fujjar:

It was a battle which was fought continuously for nine years among Arab tribes. Prophet MohammadS was a witness to this battle from age 9 to 18. This long battle started in fare of Akaz in the sacred month of Zyqa'd, and thousands died by the time it ended. The ninth and last fight was deadly, and the tribes at war were the Quraiysh, Kanana on one side and Qays and Elaan on the other side.

Every year they faced each other with great preparation. Each Quraiysh clan had prepared a separate contingent. The flag of Banu Hashim was in the hands of Zubyr Ibne Abdul Muttalib, and the commander of the Quraiysh was Harb Bin Ummya.

MohammadS too was present in Banu Hashim contingent but he tried to avoid blood-shed.

The battle continued for many days. It was a fierce fight of such intensity that Arabs had never fought before in such a manner. Hundreds died and thousands were injured. Though in the end Quraiysh won yet both the victor and the defeated faced such great casualties that they were forced to negotiate and sign a pact of peace. When the Quraiysh returned to Mecca the alleys and streets were deserted, many homes had lost all male members. There were mainly children and women folk who welcomed the victorious army with sighs and wailing.

The greatest damage and disaster of this battle which struck the Arabs was a total collapse of their economic and social system. They became weak and were unable to protect themselves. Riots, looting, plundering and robberies became the order of the day. Trade caravans were defenceless and often were attacked on their way. The pilgrims travelling to Mecca were also not safe in their journey.

Spirit of Islam As the law and order situation deteriorated, the need to find a solution and Syed Ameer Ali method of improving it was needed urgently. Then Zubyr Bin Abdul Muttalib Page: 87 on the suggestion of the prophet taking along the chiefs of Bani Hashim, Bani

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Zohra and Bani Tym visited the house of Abdullah Bin Jad'an. After a brief Page: 106 discussion an agreement was reached. Its' terms were: Within the precincts of Mecca, every one whether an outsider or a Meccan, Mustadrak-6 whether a free citizen or a slave, will be protected against injustice and cruelty. Page: 220 If someone suffers at the hands of a cruel person, then he or she will be fully compensated.

Tabqat-1 A surveillance group was set up to monitor and implement the pact. It was Page: 82 named Halaful-Fazul. The name was borrowed from an old pact of Bani Jarham which was orchestrated by Fadhl, Mufadhdhal, Fadhala and Faadhil.

With this agreement the life and property of the Meccans and the merchants and pilgrims who came to Mecca was protected and saved. Time passed and gradually all other tribes too started following and respecting the terms of the agreement.

Hence peace made the people heave a sigh of relief, and the economy started thriving once again.

Spirit of Islam This peace pact worked satisfactorily and kept on working with full force 157

Syed Ameer Ali during the first 50 years of Islamic state of Medina. Page: 87 The prophet had been so pleased and satisfied with this agreement that he often said:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 “In exchange of this agreement even if red camels were offered to me, I would Page: 106 not have exchanged it. If today too, somebody calls me to make such an agreement I would readily do so”.

MohammadS and Trade:

MohammadS had decided to take up trading on his very first journey with his uncle Abu TalibR to Syria. Afterwards he accompanied his uncle many times on trade journeys to Basra, Syria and Yemen; gaining much experience.

It was customary in Arabia that merchants and wealthy people gave their goods to trustworthy honest persons for trading, and made them partners in profit. MohammadS also accepted such partnerships gladly.

Soon his fame as an honest experienced, trustworthy merchant spread far and wide. His honesty gained him the title of “Ameen” (Trustee).

Khadija-tul-KubraR:

Dur-al-Mansur-6 A famous hadith of the holy prophet is: Page: 284 "There will be four superior most women in paradise". 1. Daughter of Khawailad, KhadijaR. Ishab-bn-Hashya 2. Daughter of MohammadS, FatimaR. Asabya-4 A R Page: 384 3. Daughter of Imran , Maryam . 4. Daughter of Mazaham, AasiaR (wife of the Pharaoh).

Among these superior women the superior most is KhadijaR daughter of Khawailad. The prophet introduced her not as his wife but as a daughter of Khawailad. It means her dignity and honour is in fact her quality from the very day she was born.

It is strange that historians have written very little about such a respected personality. However whatever is mentioned briefly is:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 “KhadijaR's lineage descended from the Quraiysh tribe's chief Qussay‟s son Page: 254 Abdul Uza. It is KhadijaR-binte-Khawailad-bin-Asad-bin Abdul Uza-bin- Qussay”.

Khawailad married Zaiyda from the Amir-bin-luiy clan. He had two daughters KhadijaR and Hala. Khawailad had a high status in his tribe; he was a wealthy merchant and died prior to the battle of Fujjar. After his death KhadijaR took the reins of business in her hands and soon become a highly successful business woman, due to her intelligence and wisdom. This knowledge was

158 bestowed upon her as a special blessing of God. Arabs traditionally carried out business in partnerships.

KhadijaR without leaving the confines of her house carried out business under this system. Initially she sent her merchandise to Basra, but after wards many merchants of Mecca took her goods to Basra, Syria and Yemen. It is said when caravans left Mecca her goods were equal to that of many traders joined together. She was a wealthy lady soon and people started calling her “Queen of Arabia”.

During the era prior to Islam she was called Syeda Tahira, the leader of pious and virtuous women because of her qualities.

She was a compassionate and generous woman; her doors were always open for the poor and needy. She was the guardian of so many orphans that sometimes she was called “Mother of orphans”.

It is a unanimous opinion of researchers and scholars, that:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 “KhadijaR by her lineage was the most respected and honourable woman of her Page: 62 times in Arabia. She was a wise, judicious, intelligent person who had The Life of Mohammad observation and a fore-sight which only few possessed. Amidst the Arab and Seerat-un-Nabi-1 non-Arab women of her days KhadijaR was noble from both mother and father's Page: 108 side. Because she was rich, many chiefs of tribes desired her in marriage, but

their efforts met no success. She did not agree to marry any of them as she deemed none to be suitable to be her husband. Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Here one point should be made clear, Maulana Shibli with reference to Tabqat Page: 254 R Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Ibne Saad has written that Khadija was married twice in the ignorance era and Page: 33 had three children from her two husbands.

Maulana says this reference of Ibne Saad is taken from the Hadith quoted by Waqady, and is as unreliable as his other quotes are. He should be totally ignored as researchers declare he was habitual of devising traditions and narratives himself.

Thus we can confidently say that KhadijaR's, marriages prior to that with the holy prophet are unauthentic.

Same is the opinion of Allama Ibne-Shehr Ashob who has quoted on the authority of Ahmed Baladry, Abul-Qasim Kufi Shaikh Murtaza and Sheikh Abu Jaffar Toosi.

KhadijaR and MohammadS:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Simultaneously at the same time, on one hand the trade of KhadijaR was Page: 108 flourishing and on the other hand the honesty and trustworthiness of MohammadS was sky rocketing at all locations where he traded within Arabia and outside Arabia. 159

KhadijaR needed a trustworthy person to manage her vast developing business, who could run and control it effectively. When she heard about the fame of MohammadS, she sent him a message.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 If you are willing to take my merchandise to other countries, then I would give Page: 108 you double the profit I give to others. The prophet agreed and took her goods to Basra. In this journey he earned a lucrative profit, KhadijaR then requested him to proceed for Syria and to take her slave Maisra with him. MohammadS then left for Syria.

Maisra accompanied MohammadS and saw his daily routine and habits. He saw how gifted MohammadS was. He saw clouds providing him cover from the scorching heat, he saw the feeble and weak camel getting stronger through his healing touch and he saw the hardships of journey became easier. He stood witness to the virtues, moral values, honesty, cultured behaviours, truthfulness, understanding discernment, insight, intelligence and wisdom of MohammadS. Maisra had never seen such a youth before. So when he returned he told his mistress everything that he had seen and felt.

KhadijaR heard and mused:

“Perhaps he is the same person I have been waiting for, for whom I had rejected the hand of rich, powerful Arab Chiefs”.

Marriage of KhadijaR and MohammadS:

Al-Quran Did he not find you poor and enrich you? Surah Al-Duha-93 Verse: 8

MohammadS was the inheritor of all the prophets from AdamA to ChristA. He was the last of God's Messengers and the most elevated prophet and apostle.

God had sent him on earth to convey the Divine Message to humans and Jinns. He had come to conclude God's religion which had been preached by one hundred and twenty four thousand apostles since thousands of years in all places of the world inhabited by human beings.

He was an orphan by birth and when the mother also died God took him under his wings of care and love, making him a Divine Blessing for humanity. God Blessed those homes where he grew up; and when God wanted him to have his own household he guided him to the house of KhadijaR Tahira, as if her house was built for him only. But his God did not want that Mohammad should beg her hand, so He made the owner of the house herself to propose and open her doors for him.

Tafheem-al-Quran-6 Divine will became the desire of KhadijaR, so she first offered him partnership Page: 374 in trade, and then proposed. Prophet immediately accepted her proposal, but 160

conditioned it to the acceptance by his uncle Abu TalibR. When Abu TalibR heard this he readily accepted the proposal. Taking his

brothers and nobles of Quraiysh he visited the house of KhadijaR. They were Talkhees R Seerat-un-Nabi received by Khadija 's (paternal) uncle, Umer Bin Asad, and her cousin Warqa Tareekh-e-Tabari bin Naufal.

The Nikah (marriage vows) were solemnised by Abu TalibR himself, Mahar (Alimony) was announced five hundred gold Dirham, which was paid immediately.

Historian Ibne-Waazih (died 292 AH) writes that the sermon at the ceremony was thus started by Abu TalibR: “All praises are for the Only God who, blessed our birth in the progeny of AbrahamA and IshmaelA”.

Spirit of Islam The whole tribe of Quraiysh celebrated this marriage. Syed Ameer Ali KhadijaR was much older than MohammadS, yet their married life was a Page: 86 pleasant one, full of love and care for each other.

This marriage provided the economic freedom to MohammadS which he needed to carry out the responsibilities of prophet-hood. It assured him peace and satisfaction essential for his work. Moreover he got a caring, loving life partner, who stood beside him in thick and thin.

Tareekh-e-Tabari This marriage was solemnized in 595 AD when the prophet was 25 years old. Page: 62 KhadijaR lived 25 years after marriage and the prophet did not marry another Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Page: 109 woman during her life. All his children except Ibrahim (born to Maria Qubtia) were from KhadijaR.

He stayed in the house of KhadijaR in Mecca, this house still exists in the form of a mosque.

After marriage KhadijaR and MohammadS were regarded as the wealthiest merchants and traders of Arabia. Despite wealth, intelligence, wisdom, abilities and fame both husband and wife led a simple life. Their doors always remained open for the needy, weak and poor. They provided subsistence to many orphans and needy. They loved to buy slaves and then to set them free. A prominent example is that of Zayd bin Harith.

Spirit of Islam Shortly after MohammadS's marriage an Arab youth Zayd-bin-Harith was Syed Ameer Ali captured in a battle as a prisoner of war and brought to Mecca as a slave. A Page: 89 nephew of KhadijaR bought him and presented him to her, she in turn gave him to MohammadS who accepted him and then set him free. When the father of Zayd heard that he was a free man, he came to take him home, but the son refused and said: “He would like to serve MohammadS”. Then he spent his whole life with MohammadS. After marriage in the first ten years, KhadijaR bore him three sons, Qasim, Tahir and Tayyab. As Qasim was the eldest MohammadS was often called Abu- al-Qasim. All the three died in infancy, none lived more than two years. Both 161

husband and wife patiently bore the great tragedy and submitted to the will of God.

Birth of AliR:

In the 30th year of elephant, Abu TalibR at the age of 60 was endowed with a son from his wife Fatima Bint'e Asad. The child was miraculously born inside the Ka’ba. History is a witness that neither before nor after this incident no other child was born in the Ka’ba.

Abu TalibR named him Zayd, mother Fatima called him Asad (after her father's name), and MohammadS taking his youngest cousin in his lap (30 years younger to him) named him Ali. Gradually his love for the child increased so much that he started caring for him like a son. He couldn't tolerate being away from the child for even short durations. Appreciating this love Abu TalibR and his wife handed over the child to MohammadS. Thus AliA grew up under the guidance and loving care of MohammadS and his wife KhadijaR. When AliA was given to MohammadS, he was two years old.

Nahj-ul-Balagha AliA in one of his sermons spoke about his closeness to Prophet: Sermon-190 "You all know what was my position in the eyes of Prophet (pbuh) due to my

close relationship with him and how he regarded my values and stature. He took me in his lap when I was an infant, held me close to his heart, made me sleep by his side, made me feel the touch of his body and made me smell the

fragrance of his body. When I learnt to walk, I used to follow him like a new born baby-camel followed his mother.

Spirit of Islam There are some narrations which reflect rather badly on Abu TalibR. They states Syed Ameer Ali R S Page: 88 that Abu Talib 's financial position was weak and prophet Muhammmad wanted to lessen his burden. Because the two sons of prophet had died earlier Ibne Hisham therefore he took responsibility of bringing up AliA. The responsibility of other Ibne-Aseer R Al-Halabi son (Jaffar) was taken up by Abbas and the third son Aqil remained with the father”.

The first thing false in the narration is that Abu TalibR was not a poor man. A person who could pay 500 gold coins as alimony on his nephew's marriage in 25th year of elephant, how he could become so poor in 30th or 35th year that he could not take care of his own children?

Secondly, at the time mentioned in the narration the first three sons of Abu TalibR were not kids but youths grown up, and did not depend completely for their subsistence and livelihood on their father. To know their ages let us keep it in mind that Abu TalibR (540AD to 620 AD) was the real brother of AbdullahR (545 AD to 570 AD) who in turn was the father of MohammadS. Thus AbdullahR was five years younger than Abu TalibR. Abu TalibR got married before AbdullahR. His

162 real name was Imran and on the birth of his eldest son TalibR, he became famous as Abu TalibR. The details about his four sons are as follows.

Name Year of Birth Year of Death Age 1. Talib (not known) 2nd Hijri 624 AD (not known) 2. Aqeel 576 AD 50th Hijri 672 AD 96 years 3. Jaffar 588 AD 8th Hijri 629 AD 41 years 4. Ali 600 AD 40th Hijri 663 AD 63 years

Syed Najm-ul-Hassan writes with reference to Ibne Qateeba that when the holy prophet migrated to Medina, Talib stayed back in Mecca. In 2 Hijri when the Meccan unbelievers attacked Medina under the command of Abu-Suffyan, and the battle of Badar took place, Abu Suffyan forcefully took TalibR along. TalibR had no desire to fight with Muslims, hence he committed suicide on the way, and died childless.

The narrative of adopting the sons of Abu TalibR pertains to year 35 of Elephant. At that time AliA was 5 years old, JaffarR was 17, AqeelR 29 and TalibR atleast over 30. The elder sons of Abu Talib were therefore not kids. They were grownups and according to Arab customs worked and helped their father in his business. Moreover Abu TalibR was the chief of Hashmi clan, and such a step would be the last thing that a chief would do, neither would his loving nephew MohammadS ever think of belittling his uncle by distributing his sons among relatives.

This narrative based on lies appear to be fabricated by those who did not want to see AliA and prophet MohammadS appearing in spiritual closeness. They want to make MohammadS's attachment appear only as a human sympathy.

Reconstruction of Ka’ba:

Right from the days of AbrahamA and IshmaelA till 605AD the building of Ka’ba remained in its' original shape and form.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Now after over two thousand years due to ravages of weather Ka’ba was in Page: 66 to 68 urgent need of repair, as its' walls had cracked and roof had partly fallen. Due

Seerat-un-Nabi-6 to the fallen roof, thieves had taken away money and valuables from there Page: 107-108 which pilgrims had donated for Ka’ba. The repair of Ka’ba had been carried out in the past centuries as and when required. But now again repair was required.

The Quraiysh Chieftains debated and discussed the matter and decided to demolish the old building and to re-construct it. By chance a ship arriving at the harbour of Jaddah collided with shore cliffs and broke down. When Quraiysh learnt about it, they sent Walyd Bin Mughyra who bought the planks of the destroyed ship and brought a Roman Mason along with him.

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The various clans of Quraiysh divided the demolishing task amongst them, so that different parts could be demolished by different clans, until they reach the very foundation which was made of green stones. This was found intact. So it was decided to build the new building on the same foundation. MohammadS also laboured along with the members of his clan. Building the House of God was regarded as a great honour and responsibility hence all members of Quraiysh laboured devotedly and whole-heartedly. The greatest honour was of placing "Black Stone" (Hijr-e-Aswad) in its place.

When the walls reached the estimated height, a point of contention arose among the chiefs as each desired to install the stone himself. The conflict rose to such height that swords were drawn and chiefs were ready to fight for it. At this juncture one of the elders Abu Umayya Bin Mughira suggested: “Whoever will come to the Kabaa' first the next morning, he will be accepted as mediator, his judgement will be followed”.

The suggestion was approved by all, thus blood-shed was avoided. The next morning many tried to reach Ka’ba first, but they found MohammadS the honest and trustworthy person was already there. When the chieftains arrived MohammadS laid a sheet of cloth on ground and lifting the Black Stone, put it in the centre of the sheet. Then he asked the chiefs of all the tribes and clans to hold a part of the sheet and carry the stone to the place of its installation. When they reached the spot he lifted the stone and installed it at its appropriate place in the wall.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Thus a great conflict which could have resulted in tribal feud and blood-shed, Page: 67 was amicably solved. All were happy with the final decision of MohammadS, as peace prevailed.

When the walls reached roof level, a roof was installed. It is narrated that maternal uncle of Abdullah Abu Wahab, advised that only that money should be utilized which had been earned honestly. This amount was found insufficient to cover the whole building. A portion was therefore left without roof. The same portion has remained without roof till now and is called “Hatim”.

Imams, scholars and theologians hold an opinion that the portion of Ka’ba which is unroofed is a blessing in disguise from God Almighty for the common people. The fact that Prophet MohammadS also left “Hatim” unroofed goes to prove that God Almighty had willed it to be so.

Almighty knew that the rulers of the future will not allow common people to pray inside Ka’ba. They will permit only their chosen people to take advantage of the great reward of praying inside Ka’ba. God willed to make this great reward available to common people by praying in Hatim which is a part of original Ka’ba.

Thus Hatim remained unroofed due to Divine Expedience, so that general public and pilgrims could offer prayers there and get the same requital and reward like those who offer prayers in the Ka’ba.

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Chapter - 5 Divine response to prayer of AbrahamA (Prophet-hood of MohammadS)

Background to the prayer of AbrahamA:

God revealed the following verse about the prophet-hood of MohammadS:

Al-Quran God has favored the faithful by sending an apostle to them from among Al-i-Imran-3 themselves, who recites to them His messages and reforms and teaches them Verse: 164 the law and the judgment, for they were clearly in error before.

The chain of prophets which had come to an end at Jesus Christ, was a chain in which God had sent four grand prophets one after another, NoahA, AbrahamA, MosesA and Jesus ChristA. In addition to them a great number of prophets were also sent among them (the Bani Israel). Quran says about AbrahamA:

Al-Quran So We bestowed on him Isaac and Jacob and gave his progeny prophet-hood Surah Ankabut-29 and scripture, and rewarded him in this world, and in the next he will be among Verse: 27 the upright.

The title of prophet JacobA was Israel. From his progeny came nearly one hundred thousand prophets and apostles of whom Jesus ChristA was the last, and MosesA was the one who brought a Code of living (Shariah) for his followers.

Both Torah and Quran state that MosesA‟s people i.e, Bani Israel accepted the Codes of Torah relunctually after much insurrection and rebellion. First they refused to believe that God Himself had conversed with MosesA, then after MosesA tried to convince them, they demanded to physically see God. Quran say:

Al-Quran Remember, when you said to Moses: “We shall not believe in you until we see Surah Baqarah-2 God face to face”. (Remember), lightening struck you as you looked (as you Verse: 55 tried to see God).

Those who went to see God could not stand it when God manifested Himself on the mountain. They fell unconscious and were revived only when Prophet MosesA prayed for them. But people of MosesA did not learn any lesson.

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Soon God‟s command and the Tablets descended upon MosesA, and his people were warned to observe them. Quran says:

Al-Quran And We wrote down on tablets admonitions and explanations of all things for Surah A’raf-7 Moses and ordered him: “Hold fast to them and command your people to Verse: 145 observe the best in them. Soon I will show you the abode of the wicked”.

But MosesA‟s people were stubborn as ever. Inspite of MosesA‟s endeavors they still violated the laws of God although they had made a covenant with God under the most trying circumstances when God had raised a mountain over their heads. Quran says:

Remember the day We made the covenant with you and raised the mountain Al-Quran above you and said: “Hold fast to what We have given you and remember what Surah Baqarah-2 Verse: 63 is therein that you may safeguard yourselves with full awareness of divine laws”.

After this command, MosesA read aloud Torah in the foothills of Mount Toor in the plains of Hurab. His people after such a great warning agreed to obey but put up a condition that: Torah Chapter-18 In future, they may never hear the Divine Voice again, nor should they perceive Verses: 19-20 such great lightening which will kill them. Then God said to MosesA: “Whatever they are saying is accepted. I will send from amidst their brethern a prophet like you, and I will put My words in his mouth, whatever I will order him that only will he utter. Those who will pay no need to my words repeated by him, they will be held accountable by Me”.

After this declaration by Torah that the coming of Prophets among the Bani-Israel had to end at some point and it will be followed by the coming of the future Prophet from among their brethren, it became absolutely clear that MosesA was the last prophet among Bani-Israel who came with a Shariah (Code of living). The prophets and apostles who came after him did not bring any Shariah. Not even Jesus ChristA who declared:

Bible Mathew “Not a single part or dot can be evaded or deferred from Torah”. Chapter-5, Verse: 18

The Shariah and Torah’s commands were therefore for the Bani Israel, and Jesus ChristA also followed the same commands.

In addition to Prophets, God also appointed Imams (leaders) among Bani Israel for propagation of Religion of God. Quran says:

Al-Quran And We made from among them Imams (leaders) to guide people by Our Surah Sajda-32 Verse: 24 Command as they were steadfast and were convinced of Our Signs.

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According to the Commands of God, the Imams guided them continuously. But after SolomonA the majority of Bani Israel, diverted from the faith of MosesA and followed the evil path of violence and oppression. They did not pay any heed to prophets and Imams and even killed them.

Al-Quran And most certainly We gave Moses the Scripture, and We sent after him many Surah Baqarah-2 a messenger one after another. We gave Jesus, son of Maryam, clear evidences Verses: 87-88 and aided him with the holy spirit. What! Whenever thereafter a messenger came to you with that which your souls did not desire, you swelled with pride. You believed some and you killed some. And they say: “Our hearts are covered”. Nay. God has cursed them on account of their disbelief. So little is it that they believe.

Their infidelity and deviations brought Divine Reproach, they had to face humiliations and punishments one after the other. God Almighty had wished them to lead humanity, but they lost their own way.

Prayer of AbrahamA:

The attitude that Bani Israel had shown to MosesA in plains of Hurab, was pursued by them even after the passage of 15 centuries, with their evil acts and their rebellious action against commands of God. By their own hands they brought down the end of the blessings of God as they did not deserve them anymore.

Time had thus arrived for the fulfillment of God‟s promise which was revealed to MosesA in the plains of Hurab: “I will send from amidst their brethren a prophet like you, and I will put my words in his mouth”.

Quran speaks about this situation:

Al-Quran Or do they (Bani Israel) envy the people for what Allah has given them of his Surah Nisa-4 Grace? But indeed We gave to Abraham‟s children the book and wisdom and Verse: 54 We gave them a great kingdom. (Remember) when his Lord tried Abraham with certain words and he fulfilled Al-Quran Surah Baqarah-2 them, the Lord said: “Verily I make you an Imam (leader) for mankind”. Verse: 124 Abraham said: “And of my offsprings”? The Lord said: “My covenant will not include Zalimin (unjust)”.

AbrahamA had two sons, IshmaelA and IsaacA, and God Almighty had promised to shower His blessings on both by granting them Book, Wisdom and a great kingdom and additionally Imamat. The above quoted verses speak very clearly about this subject.

The fulfillment of God‟s promise about IsaacA and his progeny is well recorded in history. It was spread over more than a thousand years extending from IsaacA to JesusA. But for the fulfillment of God‟s promise about IshmaelA and his progeny, God willed a different course. For over 2500 167 years, no prophet or Imam appeared in his progeny until time arrived for the prophet-hood of MohammadS. Quran says:

Al-Quran Indeed Allah conferred (His) favours upon the believers when he raised up a Surah Al-i-Imran-3 messenger (Mohammad) among them from their own selves. He rehearses to Verse: 164 them His Signs and purifies them and teaches them the Book (Quran) and wisdom, though before this they were in manifest error.

Thus started the prophet-hood of MohammadS which was indeed the fulfillment of God‟s promise to the great prophet AbrahamA.

Fulfillment of AbrahamA‟s prayer:

God blessed MohammadS with Wisdom and Divine Book (Quran), and made him a bringer of good news (Bashir) and a Warner (Nazir) of God‟s Chastisement.

Nahj-al-Balagha During his tender age he (the prophet) was a model of human virtues, while as Ali‟s Sermon: 103 a grown up man he was the superior most human in the universe. Sermon: 104 God Almighty made him a prophet at a time when there was no source of

guidance left on earth. Neither was there any minaret of light to guide people to the religion of God, nor any trace was left to help seek Shariah. People were lost in despair and hopelessness. They were struggling amidst

chaotic situations. They had become slaves to their own selfish desires kicked up by arrogance and blinded by ignorance.

S Sermon: 93 The lineage of Mohammad the holy prophet was the most pious from both his paternal and maternal sides. His fore-fathers, his uncle Abu Talib and his wife KhadijaR each in their lineages were a pride for humanity.

With the exception of this small minority which included those who followed Deen-e-Ibrahimi (Religion of AbrahamA), the vast majority of Quraiysh and others were infidels and unbelievers. As Quran says:

Al-Quran Surah Al-i-Imran-3 Before this they were in manifold error. Verse: 164

From the time of his birth and from his childhood to his youth, the occurrence of extra-ordinary events made his handlers realize that the person they were taking care of was no ordinary person. His habits, his behavior, his honesty, his understanding, his intelligence, his truthfulness and his virtuous conduct made people realize that he was the great prophet, the savior of humanity, for whom the world had been waiting since centuries.

God had favoured MohammadS and he always found God dearer than his own existence. The Ka’ba was his favorite place and a source of consolation to him. But the presence of those 360 idols 168 in Ka’ba were like a thorn in the rose. So he avoided entering the room full of idols, and sat outside and spent time in meditation.

He loved peace and calm of isolation and used to visit the caves in the mountains near Mecca where he spent much of his time in meditation. Among these he chose the cave known as “Hira” to meditate and think about God, His creation, and to pray. Through these prayers, sometimes alone, sometimes with KhadijaR and AliA he would spend time in the worship of God.

Sahih Bukhari Usually he spent time alone in the cave and meditated upon the Almighty Lord who had created the Universe. He prostrated for long spells before this Unseen Spirit of Islam Syes Ameer Ali Omnipresent Power. Like all other prophets, the Almighty Lord blessed Page: 90 MohammadS with Knowledge, comprehension, enlightenment, fore-sight, judiciousness and sagacity, which had been the hallmark of all prophets but was showered on him lovingly. The Holy prophet even prior to prophet-hood had acquired deep knowledge through meditation and prayers.

Reaching the prime age of 40 he was not unaware why nature was so generous towards him, why branches of trees bowed down when he passed by, why Angels provided him the cover of their wings when he walked under the sun, and why the rocks, stones and pebbles around the Hira cave whispered.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Ever before Angel GabrielA descended with the first Divine Revelation he Page: 70 could hear the grains of sand in the desert, the trees and their leaves, the stones of the hills, all sending salutations to him.

Descent of Quran and Revelation:

Al-Quran Nay, it is the glorious Quran, (inscribed) in Lowh-e-Mahfuz (the preserved Surah Baruj-85 Tablet). Verses: 21-22 Al-Quran Verily We sent it down on a blessed night. Verily We are the Warner. Every Surah Dukhan-44 affair of Wisdom is made distinct therein. Verses: 3-4 It means Quran is that Holy Book, which is preserved in the Guarded Divine Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Tablet. No one can change it. All scholars of the world together, cannot prove Page: 300 a single word of the Quran wrong or fictitious.

The above mentioned verses also clearly indicate that God named His Last

Tafhim-ul-Quran Book Quran, then preserved it in the Divine Tablet in Heavens. When He Page: 404 Willed He sent it down to Bait-ul-Mamur where Angel GabrielA was given the Fasal-ul-Khitab Traditions cited by duty to guard and protect the Divine Words. Ibne Abbas. Summary with ref: Ibne Jarir Tabari, Ibnul Manzar, Ibne Hatim Bayhaqi.

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These arrangements were made in a night of holy month of Ramzan, a night known for its might and grandeur, a night when a good deed is rewarded with a reward equivalent to thousand of months of good deeds, even more. Truly an auspicious night.

It is a night in which decisions are made with wisdom and justice and judgments are passed accordingly.

Divine Revelation:

“Wahi” (Revelation) literally means to signal, to put something in the heart (of a person), secret delivery of messages in such a manner that only the sender and the receiver knows and understands the real meaning. Quran uses this word to include all those Divine Commands and Messages, which are continually delivered from God to all His creations in the universe. These messages can be a single word “Kun” (To Be), or His signals to His creations, or His Intention or Will, or His messages through Angels or through the arch Angle GabrielA.

Revelation also includes Inspiration, which descends with the Will of God on whomsoever He pleases. For example:

Al-Quran Your Lord revealed to the bee, saying: “Make lives in mountains, in trees and Surah Nahl-16 in that which they (mankind) build. Verse: 68

Al-Quran Then He turned to the heaven and it was smoke. So He said to it and the Ha-Mim Sajda-41 earth: “come you two, willingly or unwillingly”. They said: “We come Verses: 11-12 willingly”. Then He made seven heavens in two days and revealed to each

heaven its‟ task.

Al-Quran When your Lord revealed to the angels, saying: “Verily I am with you, so Surah Anfal-8 make firm those who believe (in the battle of Badar). Soon I will cast terror Verse: 12 into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Therefore strike above their necks and strike off all their finger tips.

The revelations which were brought by Arch-angle GabrielA to prophet MohammadS, they came under an extremely safe and protected arrangement. God brought it to the knowledge of prophet MohammadS and all others what a party Jinns observed. Holy Quran says:

A party of Jinns sought to pry into the secrets of heavens, but found it filled Al-Quran with strong guards and shooting flames. The places they used to sit to steal a Surah Jinn-72 Verses: 8-9 hearing, they found full of shooting flames in wait for them. They wondered whether these strict arrangements were, either for the descending of a chastisement on earth, or for the coming of a new Prophet!

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Divine Revelation and the Holy Prophet:

God Almighty says:

Al-Quran It is not given to humans that God should speak to them except by suggestion, Surah Shura-42 or indirectly, or send a messenger to convey by His command whatsoever He Verse: 51 pleases. He is All-high and All-wise. We have sent revelations to you (O Mohammad) as We sent revelations to Al-Quran Noah and the prophets (who came) after him; and We sent revelations to Surah Nisa-4 Verse: 163 Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and their offspring. And to Jesus and Job, and to Jonah and Aaron and Solomon, and to David We gave the Book of Psalms.

Al-Quran That is how We have sent you to a people (O Mohammad), before whom many Surah R’ad-13 people have come and gone (the rebellious infidels), so that you may announce Verse: 30 to them whatever We have revealed to you. But they do not believe in Ar- Rahman. Tell them “He is my Lord. There is no other God but He. In Him have I placed trust, and to Him is my return”.

Mohammad (pbuh) and Descent of Revelations:

Al-Quran We have divided the Quran into parts that you may recite it to people slowly, Surah Bani Israel-17 with deliberations. That is why We sent it down by degrees. Verse: 106

Al-Quran He sends the angels with revelation by His command to any of His creatures as Surah Nahl-16 He pleases, saying: “Warn that there is no God but I, so fear Me”. Verse: 2

Many commentaries have been written by many scholars about the Quranic verses on the subject of Wahi (revelations). The jist of these commentaries may be summarized as under: Prophet MohammadS had chosen the cave of Hira for meditation and prayers in the perfect environment of privacy. This cave was situated in Jabal-e-Noor (Mount of Light), about three miles from the city of Mecca. Prophet had been visiting this cave regularly for many years, but the year when he reached the age of 40 was certainly very special. This was the year when revelations started coming and MohammadS was blessed with prophet-hood. Arch-angel GabrielA brought these revelations in the cave and because of this honour, the eminence of the cave got elevated beyond all estimates.

For the protection of the contents of revelations, the security arrangements made in heavens and earth were extraordinary. Those Jinns who used to pry the heaven to steal some secrets, were driven away by shooting fires and the heavens were completely secured for the descent of the revelations. Surah Jinn, chapter 72 helps us in understanding that scenario.

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The need for such elaborate arrangements is understandable because it was the time for last Book of God (Quran) to descend on the last prophet of God (MohammadS). Furthermore this Book had to exist with its original words until the end of the world; hence the importance of the preservation of its‟ words in original Arabic and in original form.

The revelations were therefore conveyed through the Arch-angel GabrielA direct to the heart of prophet MohammadS.

Beginning of Revelation:

Spirit of Islam The year was 610 AD, 40th year of the elephant the month was Rajab, the 26th Pages: 92-93 th day had ended and it was midnight of 27 . Tareek-e-Tabari-1 It was in these moments that Angel Gabriel received the Divine Command to Page: 72 visit the cave of Hira with the first Revelation. He descended from Bait-ul- Mamur (in heavens) on Jabal-e-Noor (Mount of Light) and met the Holy

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Prophet. After salutation he said: Maulana Shibly “O Mohammad! I am Gabriel and you are God‟s prophet”. Page: 118 It did not happen that Angel Gabriel came down like thunder and lightning,

relayed the Message and departed as suddenly as he had arrived. He did not embrace MohammadS and left him shivering and trembling with fright due to this strange experience. The narration of Imam Zehri that the prophet reached

home trembling and drenched in perspiration is unauthentic and not true.

Al-Quran Have We not expanded for you (O Mohammad) your heart, and taken off from Surah you your burden which weighed down your back? Alm-Nashrah-94 Verse: 1-5 And exalted your fame? Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Verily with every difficulty there is ease. Page: 379 The fact is that much before the Prophet was ordained for the Divine Mission,

his Lord had granted him the understanding and blessed him with confidence, courage, steadfastness and resolute mind and heart. All these qualities were the need for a person who was to hold the status of an apostle and prophet. To him

was given all knowledge which no other human could have borne. He had the wisdom and fore-sight which would make his task easy.

All these blessing granted to the prophet by Almighty God are beautifully summarized in one sentence by the above-mentioned verse: “Have We not expanded for you, your breast (O Mohammad)”?

It is certainly unfair and also unworthy of the prophet if this verse is explained by saying that in his childhood, an angel came, spilt his chest, took out his heart and washed it with heavenly water and put it back. Such explanations are found in some books, which certainly are based on weak narrations.

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First Revelation:

Al-Quran Read (O Mohammad) in the name of your Lord who created (all things). He Surah Alaq-96 created man from a clot. Verse: 1 to 5 Recite (O Mohammad), your Lord is the most honourable, who taught (to write) with the pen. (He) taught humans what they did not know.

These five verse of Surah Alaq were the first revelation which Angel GabrielA brought to prophet MohammadS. The very first verse asked MohammadS to read! But the question arises, to read what?

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 Commentators say that Surah Fateha was given to the prophet to read and Page: 4 recite. Fasal-ul-Khitab-1 S Page: 4 This was the first complete Surah which descended on prophet Mohammad .

Fasal-ul-Khitab-7 The fact that this Surah is recited in all prayers indicates that its‟ style is such Page: 731 as if a human is pleading to his Lord directly, standing in the awesome Gharaib-ul-Quran presence of his Lord. The words and style both tell us that it is the Surah for Allama Naisha Puri Printed in Iran which the Command came, “Read” (Iqra). Page: 26 In short, the first Surah to descend from Heavens is Surah Fateha. Which is the opening Surah or chapter of Quran.

Al-Quran We have indeed given you (the seven oft repeated i.e, the seven Surah Hujr-15 verses of Surah Fateha), and the glorious Quran. Verse: 87 Surah Fateha was the commencement of revelation and also the opening

Saheh Bukhari chapter of the holy Quran. It also is a valuable prayer. The whole Quran infact

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 is an answer or reply to this prayer, which descended part by part continuously Page: 512 for 23 years, was infact an explanation and elaboration of his prayers.

Surah Fateha contains seven verses. Each verse is a blessing and guidance and the Surah ends with a prayer of great substance:

Al-Quran In the name of Allah, the beneficent, the merciful. Surah Fateha-1 All praises be to Allah, Lord of all the worlds. Verses: 1-7 Most beneficent, ever merciful. Lord of the Day of Judgment. You alone we worship, and to you alone we turn for help. Keep us (O Lord) to the right path. The path of those upon whom You have bestowed Your bounties, not the path of those inflicted with Your wrath, nor of those gone astray.

After the descent of this first Revelation, Angel GabrielA stepped on a rock. A spring gushed forth and as God had ordained, asked the prophet to perform ablution and offer prayer. This was the first prayer after the grant of prophet-hood to MohammadS which he performed with the recitation of Surah Fateha. 173

To bear the burden of Quran was no easy a task:

God Almighty says:

Al-Quran Had We sent this Quran on a mountain, you (O Mohammad) would certainly Surah Hashr-59 had seen it humbled and crumbled for awe of Allah. We propound such Verse: 21 similitudes unto mankind that haply they may reflect.

Through this verse God Almighty tries to explain a very complex subject to people, through a similitude:

If a mountain was given the capability of understanding the deep penetrating impact of Divine words of Quran and the sense of responsibility of guiding and leading people according to Quranic dictates, then even a solid and super strong entity like a mountain would have been overawed and collapsed.

The burden that MohammadS must have felt after the grant of prophet-hood can well be imagined.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After this happening in the cave of Hira, prophet MohammadS returned home, Page: 118 lost in thought. KhadijaR his wife was waiting for his return, and when he

related to her the incident and reason for his coming late, she was moved as she A S was already a believer. Then he told Ali , who was raised by Mohammad himself. Both accepted whole-heartedly what he said, and became the first Muslims. When the time for prayer came arrived, they followed the prophet and prayed. Tareekh-e-Tabary-1 Narrator Nasii in his book Kitab-al-Khasayas writes with reference to a Summary narrative of Afif, that during the Jahlya Age (Age of ignorance), I came to Page: 82 Mecca to buy perfume and cloth and visited Abbas Ibne Abdul Muttalib. As I sat near him, suddenly I saw a youth walking towards the Ka’ba. There he performed ablution and stood facing the Ka’ba stood Then a woman and a child came and stood in same manner. Then all three stood erect, then bowed their heads and in the last prostrated. I asked Abbas: “What is this”? Abbas told me: “The youth is my nephew MohammadS-bin-Abdullah the woman is his wife KhadijaR and the child is also my nephew Ali-ibn-Abu Talib. The youth has proclaimed that God has assigned him prophet-hood and to pray like this is also His Command. I swear by God, I don‟t know if there is any other than these three who follow this creed”.

The paternal cousin of KhadijaR, Warqa Bin Naufil was a Christian theologian. He also attested the very first day that MohammadS was indeed the chosen prophet of God but we do not find any evidence that he too prayed with MohammadS.

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Abu Talib, Jaffar and Islam:

Summary Ibne Aseer writes that MohammadS would leave for the hills at the time of Ibne Aseer prayer, and offer his payers there. However he offered the forenoon prayers Page: 21 (Chasht) in the courtyard of the Ka’ba, as this prayer was offered by Quraiysh Seerat-un-Nabi-1 too according to their faith. Page: 119 A Once the prophet was praying as usual and Ali was following him in his Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 prayers, when Abu Talib arrived at the spot along with his other son Jaffar. He Pages: 84-85 inquired from the prophet: Ibne Abi-ul-Hadid “What manner of prayers is this”? Nahj-ul-Balagha The prophet replied: “O Uncle! this is according to the religion of Allah, and

A Diwan-e-Abu Talib religion of Angels, prophets and our great grandfather Abraham . God has sent Page: 36 me on earth as His Messenger for humanity”. S Nahj-ul-Balagha Hearing this Abu Talib ordered Jaffar to pray with Mohammad and then he Ibne Abi-al-Hadid-3 uttered these lines: Page: 314 “definitely Ali and Jaffar both are my aides and source of strength. Still my sons, never leave your uncle‟s son alone. By God I will also never forsake him”.

It should be noted here that Abu Talib was a well-known poet. His style, manner, unambiguous wording; and eloquence, are famous in Arabian Poetry. He wrote poetry in honor of the prophet. His book of poetry has a great significance as it provides an authentic source of history the prophet‟s life even for childhood. These historical details are not found anywhere else. Following books contain most of his poetry:

(a). Seerat Ibne Hisham. (b). Khasais-ul-Kubra by Allama Seyoti. (c). Spirit of Islam by Syed Ameer Ali. (d). Tareekh Ibne Kaseer. (e). Nahj-ul-Balaagha.

Spirit of Islam Islam until now was limited to the house of MohammadS. A few days after, Syed Ameer Ali Zayed Bin Harith whom the prophet had freed yet who preferred to live in Page: 98 service of the prophet, accepted Islam.

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Chapter - 6 Meccan Era of Prophet-hood

Declaration of Prophet-hood: After the revelation of first five verses of Surah Alaq, many months passed and the prophet kept on waiting eagerly for the arrival of Angel GabrielA with some more verses.

Ultimately the waiting ended for the Prophet and Angel GabrielA descended with the following verses:

Al-Quran O you, enfolded in your mantle ( ). Surah Muddassir-74 Verses: 1 to 7 Arise and warn. Proclaim the supreme greatness of your Lord. Purify your raiment. Keep away from (all) abominations. Do not bestow (with the object) that you may receive more in return. And exercise patience for the sake of your Lord. “O Muddassir”! Was how GabrielA addressed him, yet the Command was Divine. Thus did God Willed and thus was he addressed.

At that moment when the revelation descended prophet was in deep sleep. This manner of his was liked by his Lord hence the address Muddassir which in Arabic means “One who is sleeping covered with a coverlet”. God‟s command was simple: awake, get up, the time of comfort has ended, hence wake up and give a clarion call to my creation i.e, Humans, warn your people, because their misdeeds and paganism (polytheism) is inviting Divine Chastisement.

This second Revelation was brief and consisted of few short sentences. But the prophet who held the title of “city of knowledge” very well understood the meaning of each and every word.

This was the first command to the prophet to execute his mission. He was required to get ready for the difficult task of preaching. The prophet very well knew that the city of his fore-father IshmaelA was now a center of idol-worshippers. The House of God (Ka’ba) had 360 idols. To preach Monotheism in such an atmosphere was not only difficult but full of thorns. Yet if this state of affairs did not change then God's Wrath was not far away.

The second command was to speak about the Superiority and Sovereignty of God and that there is no one Supreme to Him ( ). This command was not meant for a specific period but was to prevail till the doomsday and Day of Judgment. This word, God is Supreme ( ) was therefore

176 made a part of Azan (the Muslim call for prayer) and a part of prayer itself. A Muslim recites this word proclaiming the Sovereignty of God over everything, many times daily in his five prayers.

Then this command was conditioned with the third.

Commentary on Speak about the Sovereignty and Greatness of God with the purity of soul, and Quran Kareem just like I have purified your soul, in the same manner keep your body clean and Page: 1650 pure and wear clean clothes. This command was important not only generally but specially about Quraiysh who did not keep their bodies clean and were not used to ablution.

In a wider and deeper sense this command promotes devotion, abstinence and piety, which forms the base and foundation of Islam as a faith and religion.

After the Revelation of these seven verses the prophet immediately started his preaching activities.

First of all he visited his fast friend Abdullah Ibne Abu Qahafa and gave him the offer of Islam. He accepted Islam without asking any questions. This person is the same who is well-known in history as Abu BakrR, he was two years younger than the prophet. He belonged to the tribe of Taym Bin Marah, and was a respected member of his tribe. He was a merchant and was an expert on the lineages and progeny of tribes.

Tafheem-ul-Quran After the Revelation of Sura Alaq and Muddassir, there were four persons who Page: 100 accepted Islam without any hesitance or doubt, they are KhadijaR, AliA, ZayedR and Abu BakrR. Seerat-un-Nabi-1 It was because of convincing by Abu BakrR that UthmanR Bin Affan, Abdul Page: 119 RehmanR Bin Awf, SaadR Bin Abi Waqas and TalhaR accepted Islam.

Start of Preaching:

The fundamental command on which the foundations of religion of Islam were based ( ) “There is no God but Allah and MohammadS is His prophet” was being preached by Prophet MohammadS privately for two years. In the third year God‟s Command came:

Al-Quran So declare to them what We have enjoined and turn away from idolaters. We are Surah Hijr-15 surely sufficient to deal with those who scoff at you, who place other gods Verse: 94-96 besides God. They will come to know soon.

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But first, MohammadS was commanded to preach to his relatives:

Al-Quran And warn your near relatives. Surah Shu'ara 26 Verse: 214.

Verse: 215. And take those believers under your wings who follow you.

Verse: 216. If they do not obey you, tell them: “I am not responsible for what you do”.

Spirit of Islam A brief of the interpretation of these verses by the referred scholars and Page: 100 historians is as follows: Tareekh-e-Ahmedi The first order was to preach amidst his close relatives. It was due to the fact Pages: 17,18,19 that the polytheist may not taunt and blame Prophet to first think about his own Seerat-un-Nabi-1 close relatives. Secondly, as compared to other members of his tribe, the Page: 121 qualities and supreme character of the Prophet was better known to his relatives, and so it was easier for them to accept what MohammadS preached.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 After the descent of these verses the prophet sent AliA to go to Abu TalibR's Page: 88 house and to prepare a feast for all descendent of Abdul Muttalib and invite Seerat Ibne Hisham them there. AliA obeyed. All family members of the prophet‟s grand-father Page 280 Abdul Muttalib i.e, his paternal uncles, Abu TalibR, AbbasR, HamzaR, Abu Tafseer-e- Namunah-15 Lahb, and their children and other cousins of his father and their children, in all Page: 297 forty people gathered at the feast.

It was the first Dawa (offer) of Islam and is called "Zul-Ashyra" in Arabic, Ashyra means close relatives i.e, relatives from the paternal grand-father.

The reason of arranging this feast at the house of Abu TalibR was to show the relatives that the family head supported MohammadS. His door was open to the prophet and his proclamation of prophet-hood.

The life of Nearly all the relatives attended this feast and partook the food offered. When Mohammad after the end of the feast, the prophet rose to speak about his intentions, Abu Page: 37-38 Lahb one of his uncle's spoke ill of prophet and tried to humiliate him. This dispersed the invitees, yet the prophet was not deterred. The next day he invited his relatives again, after the feast he addressed them politely. "O sons of Abdul Muttalib! Throughout Arabia, I do not find anyone who had brought a better and superior thing for his people as I have brought for you, redemption of this world and the world hereafter. God has commanded me to preach His religion. Who will be my helper in carrying out this great task and to share this responsibility. The one, who will be my aide, will be my brother, my second and my heir”.

All those who were present stood still on hearing this. None was willing to aid the prophet in his responsibility. However AliA, who was the youngest of them all, happily stood up again and again, but the prophet made him sit down each 178

time. When the prophet repeated the same offer thrice and no one ventured forward except AliA, then he looked towards him and AliA jumped up and said with full confidence and conviction: "O holy prophet! I will bear the burden along with you, I will be your second I will be your heir". Hearing this the prophet patted AliA on his back (as a sign of encouragement) and addressed his relatives and said: "This is Ali, he is my brother, my second and my heir. Listen to what he says and obey him". All heard and were amazed, some were furious; gathering their robes they got up angrily. Abu Lahb before departing stopped and addressing Abu TalibR provokingly said: "Have you heard what your nephew has ordered; now you should show obedience and follow the commands of your son".

This event happened ten years prior to the migration of prophet from Mecca to Medina. Muslim scholar Maulana Shibly Naumany has written briefly about it.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 This was an extremely surprising moment for the Quraiysh. Two persons one Pages: 121-122 of whom was a youth of thirteen years (just a kid), were deciding the fate of all. But as times unraveled, the fact spoken by them and mocked by the audience, proved to be the ultimate reality and truth.

This was the beginning of the proclamation of prophet-hood. It was the first action taken by the prophet in obedience of the Divine Command.

Except from Abu Lahb none of the other uncles of Prophet were so furious. However they did mock but did not reject completely what MohammadS had proclaimed. The proof of this lies in the fact that gradually all the descendants of Abdul Muttalib accepted Islam and MohammadS as the prophet.

Announcement from Mount Saffa: As second phase of Dawa, after inviting the relatives God ordered the prophet to make announcement for all tribes:

Al-Quran We have therefore revealed to you the eloquent Quran, that you may warn Surah Shu'ara-24 Verse: 7 the people of Metropolis ( Umm-ul-Qura) and those who live around it, of the Day of Gathering, of which there is no doubt, (when mankind would be assembled) some in Heaven, some in Hell. 179

Ummul-Qura is the ancient name of Mecca, a city in the foothills of Mount Saffa. It was an Arab tradition that if an enemy attack was expected or any important announcement was to be made the announcer climbed the mountain and shouted from there, people gathered to hear.

The holy prophet also called out from the mount early in the morning, as commanded by his Lord, he called: "O people of Quraiysh! O Bani Ka'b, O Bani Lui, O Bani Marrah, O Ale-Qussay, O Bani Abd Munaff, O Bani Hashim, O Bani Abdul Muttalib (these were the names of the important clans of Quraiysh tribe)".

Hearing this call people rushed towards the mount, when they had gathered, the prophet spoke thus: "O people of my race, will you believe if I inform you that a big enemy army has gathered at the other side of the hill"?

Hearing this they all replied in one voice: "Yes! Becuse we know you are an honest and trustworthy person".

When the prophet heard this he replied: "O people! I (Mohammad) am the Messenger and Apostle of Allah. I invite you to accept the faith revealed by Allah, have belief in One-God, and come towards virtuous deeds, as your misdeeds will bring you nearer the Divine Punishment and Wrath. I warn you about the chastisement of Day of Judgment . Save yourself from the fires of Hell, while there is still time.

The tribal chiefs of Mecca were infuriated and irritated. They looked at the prophet in total disbelief and dispersed mocking him and passing indecent remarks. A large majority rejected what the prophet said due to their love for the beliefs of their fore-fathers and ways of their ancestors. They were ignorant illiterates unable to understand the truth in the message of the prophet, and to realize that it was the Divine Benevolence and Graciousness that God had raised a prophet from amongst them, who recited the verses of Allah, was their redeemer and a teacher who was to teach them wisdom and the Holy Book.

The tribal chiefs did react aggressively, but amidst the crowd there were some like Abu BakrR and other righteous souls who heard carefully with full attention what the prophet was saying, accepted it and became part of that small group who accepted Islam. Most of these people were youth, women and slaves, people of scanty living means.

This period through which the prophet and his small group of followers had to pass was extremely difficult and full of painful experiences. The Lord had already fore-warned:

Al-Quran Surah Muddassar-74 And persevere in the way of your Lord. Verse: 7

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Divine revelations were descending one after other and MohammadS was reciting them loud and clear among the Meccan unbelievers, trying to show them the light and remove from their minds the flawed urge of blindly following their forefathers.

Al-Quran Sad ( ), I call to witness the admonishing Quran. But the unbelievers are still Surah Sad-38 full of pride and hostility. (They don‟t realize) how many generations We have Verse: 1-11 destroyed before them who cried (for mercy) when it was too late for escape.

(Now, the unbelievers of Mecca display the same attitude), they were surprised that one of them (Mohammad) had come to them as warner. And the unbelievers said (tauntingly): “he is a deceiving sorcerer. (How come) has he turned so many gods into one deity? This is indeed a strange thing”! And their leading chiefs said: “Remain attached to your gods. There is surely some motive behind it. We never heard of it in the former faith. It is surely a

fabrication. Of all of us, it is only to him (Mohammad) that the Reminder had been sent down”?

They (the Meccan unbelievers) are still in doubt about My admonition

(because) they have not tasted My punishment yet. (Or) do they possess the treasures of the Mercy of your Lord, the Mighty and Magnificent? Or, is the kingdom of heavens and earth and all that lies between them, theirs? (If so) then let them climb up the ladders (to the heavens to manage them and run

them). Al-Quran They (should realize that) their‟s will be one more army vanquished among the Surah Zukhruf-43 many routed hordes (earlier). Verse: 31 They also said: “why was this Quran not sent down to some great man of the two cities?

Tabaqat Ibne Saad When prophet MohammadS openly started preaching Islam and people also Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 started converting to Islam, then the Quraiysh chiefs were worried and upset. Page: 92 Then they sent a delegation to Abu TalibR and asked him to forbid his nephew

from preaching this new faith and religion. This was their first delegation.

First Delegation:

It consisted of nearly 25 tribal chiefs of Quraiysh such as Abu Lahb, Abu Jahl, Abu Suffyan, Umayya Bin Khalf, Walyd Bin Mughyra, Aas Bin Wayl, Aswad Bin Muttalib, UqbaBin Aby Mohyt, Ataba and Shyba; all met Abu TalibR. They complained: “Your nephew abuses us and our gods. You have to justly decide between us”.

Abu TalibR summoned the prophet and told him about the delegation and the purpose of their arrival. The holy prophet replied politely:

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“Dear Uncle! I will utter before them some such words that if they will accept them they will have the whole of Arabia under their control, and even outside Arabia the states will become their subservient states”.

Tafhim-ul-Quran-4 When the delegates heard this they unanimously replied: Page: 317 "You can tell us as many words as you like, but tell us quickly what you have to say. What are those words"? Prophet replied: "There is no God but Allah". ( ).

As soon as he uttered these words, they rose saying among themselves “Remain attached to your gods. There is surely some motive behind what MohammadS is saying. We never heard it in the faith that we follow. It is only a fabrication. Of all of us, how is it that this Reminder has been sent down only to MohammadS”?.

It wasn‟t that the idol-worshippers did not believe in the Supreme God. They did so, but additionally they also believed in many gods and goddesses whom they worshipped and prayed to them to fulfill their needs. They had their statues installed in Ka’ba, and they were not prepared to give them up. At that time 360 idols adorned Ka’ba.

Al-Quran Surah Zumur-39 They say: “We worship them that they may bring us nearer to God.” Verse: 3

In their opinion these idols (gods and goddess) were the favorites of Supreme God and they were assigned the duties of looking after the affairs of the world and heavens. That is why as soon as the prophet said:

"No god but only Allah".

They stood up in anger, for they were not ready to accept that those, whom they have been worshiping since ages, simply did not exist. They decided to oppose MohammadS tooth and nail. They mocked, ridiculed, criticized and teased him. They taunted him thus:

Al-Quran When they see you they take you only in jest: “Is this the one whom God has Surah Furan-25 sent as messenger”? Verse: 41

Al-Quran They say what sort of prophet is this who eats food and walks the market Surah Furan-25 places? Why was no angel sent to him to act as admonisher with him? Or a Verse: 7-8 treasure should have been given to him, or he should have had an orchard from which he could eat. And these wicked people say: “you only follow a man

bewitched”.

Al-Quran When our clear revelations are read out to them, the infidels say of the truth Surah Ahqaf-46 when it had come to them: “This is pure magic”. Verse: 7

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Al-Quran They said: “Why was this Quran not sent down to some great man of the two Surah Zukhruf-43 cities”? Verse: 31

The prejudice, obstinacy and rigidness of Quraiysh, mainly that of Bani Abd-ul-Shams and Bani Nawfal was disheartening for the prophet. Yet he was patient, as the opposition grew stronger so did his determination. He consistently preached in his family, his relatives, and would preach in the streets and on roadsides to the passersby. He recited whatever was revealed to him.

The great city of Mecca was always the hub of pilgrims, travelers who traveled through Mecca to other cities, and merchant caravans. The prophet would meet the caravan leaders and recite to them the verses of Quran. Then he would offer them Islam.

His dignified, virtuous unblemished character along with his eloquence and convincing style always impressed those who heard him. Larger and larger number of people started paying heed to his teachings and thought provoking arguments, it touched the souls and hearts of the audience.

As the number of those who surrounded him and heard his teaching increased, the Quraiysh and infidels were increasingly disturbed and worried. The days of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) were drawing near. They knew that MohammadS will address the pilgrims and will proclaim his prophet- hood. Such a situation would not be tolerable to them at all. Their fury and concern knew no bounds when the prophet addressed them directly and conveyed to them the Command: Elaborating the blessings of Almighty Lord on Quraiysh, the Lord reminded them:

Al-Quran The Quraiysh have been united to fit out caravans winter and summer. (So) let Surah Quraiysh-106 them worship the Lord of this House, who provided them against destitution Verse: 3 and 4 and gave them security against fear.

The chieftains of Quraiysh heard this and reacted immediately by calling an urgent meeting under the chairmanship of Walyd Bin Mughira at the Daar-ul-Nida (their council hall). In this council meeting two major decisions were taken. (i) It was decided that now onwards whenever MohammadS will try to address people he should be interrupted as soon as he starts reciting the verses of Quran. Such a disturbance should be created that nobody is able to hear what he is saying:

Quran describes their attitude:

Al-Quran The disbelieves say: “Do not listen to this Quran and shout away (its‟ reading). Surah Ha-Min Sajda-41, Verse: 26 You may haply prevail.”

The other decision was about the caravans coming into Mecca. It was decided that they should be intercepted at the out skirts of the city, and should be warned that a person in our town has proclaimed prophet-hood and the words he utters are mere sorcery.

Al-Quran (They said): Surah Muddassir-74 “This is nothing but the magic of old, nothing more than speech of a man”. Verses: 24 and 25 183

This vicious and malicious suggestion was given by Walyd Bin Mughira.

This was the first conspiracy against Allah and His Messenger and it was hatched by Walyd-bin- Mughira. He was the man against whom 15 verses were revealed in Surah Muddassir 74, (verses 11 to 25) in scorn and contempt, and he was fore-told that after death his abode will be Hell.

Results of this intrigue were quite unexpected. The warning given by the Quraiysh to the pilgrims aroused curiosity in them. They were now keen to hear this person they had mentioned. Thus the pilgrims heard MohammadS and repeated what they had seen and heard in their home- towns after their return from the pilgrimage. Thus the Quraiysh unwillingly became the tools of spreading the words of the prophet in far off settlements of Arabia.

The Quraiysh were stunned by the damaging outcome of their planning.

Second Delegation:

As their first plan failed the Quraiysh again decided to meet Abu TalibR, they brought with them two proposals. They said: "O Abu Talib! Tell your nephew to stop reproaching our gods, in return we will give him so much wealth that he will become the richest person of Arabia and then we will offer him the most beautiful girl (of Arabia) in marriage".

Abu TalibR looked towards his nephew who replied: "O uncle! If these people will place the sun and moon on my palms then too I will not stop preaching Islam until and unless this faith dominates the earth or I may die supporting and defending It.”

Abu TalibR embraced his nephew with love and affection and declared: "Go on preaching Islam, I will always support and wish you success".

Narrative Abdullah Hearing this Quraiysh placed another proposal before Abu Talib, they said: Ibne Abbas "O Abu Talib! Tell your nephew that we are prepared to worship his God for Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 one year, but on the condition that next year he will have to worship our gods.” Page: 500

In reply to this proposal the under mentioned revelation descended:

Al-Quran Say (O Mohammad), O you unbelievers, Surah Kaafrun-109 I do not worship what you worship. Full Surah Nor do you worship who I worship.

Nor will I worship what you worship.

Nor will you worship who I worship.

To you your way, to me my way.

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Through MohammadS, this was the final and ultimate reply from God Almighty not only to the non-believers of those times but for all non-believers till the dooms day.

The importance of this Surah is that the prophet recited it frequently in his prayers, and advised his followers to recite it before going to bed. He urged all Muslims to do the same, as it is a proclamation for absolving Muslims from all kinds of infidelity and Paganism. Despite the opposition of the Meccans, many pilgrims and traders visiting Mecca from all over Arabia were embracing Islam, and the Quraiysh were getting more and more vexed and restless. Their problem was that they could not openly confront MohammadS and Abu TalibR, as Abu TalibR was one of the most prominent chief of the Quraiysh tribal branch of the courageous Banu Hashim. MohammadS was in his protection. According to Arab traditions a person who took refuge under the protection of a person, it meant he was to be defended by the whole tribe. If anyone dared to show enmity or to harm that person, the whole tribe would rise to protect him and would fight against the enemy. Moreover Islam had spread to such an extent that nearly every Arab tribe had some Muslims. Apart from this the sons of Abu TalibR, his wife, daughter in law KhadijaR and granddaughters, the wife of JaffarR and many of their maids had embraced Islam.

However despite sheltering all theses Muslims Abu TalibR did not announce his acceptance of Islam.

Spirit of Islam The demand of the infidels was that either Abu Talib should restrain his Syed Ameer Ali nephew from preaching Islam or he should openly proclaim his own change of Page: 119 faith and join his nephew. This would draw a clear line between him and the Quraiysh and the issue will then be settled by drawn swords in favor of one or the other.

Reality is if Abu TalibR would have openly announced his conversion to Islam, the situation would have changed dramatically in favor of non-believing tribes. Their combined opposition would have been fatal for the small number of Muslims, open hostility would have initiated a battle of survival for them. The very verses of Abu TalibR clearly speak about this situation.

Translation of "O Mohammad! You have given me too the offer of Islam, I know that you are Abu Talib‟s Verses my well-wisher, and sincere. You have honestly carried out your duty. I believe that the faith preached by Mohammad is the most supreme to all other religions. If I was not afraid of peoples reproach and rebuke, you would have found me announcing my acceptance of Islam. But O Mohammad! These Quraiysh, inspite of all their might and power cannot reach you until I m buried. So O Mohammad preach Islam openly without any fear or apprehension and without any reservations. Carry out your responsibilities freely and fearlessly.

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Last Delegation:

When the Infidels and un-believers saw Abu TalibR rejecting all of their suggestions and proposals, they came up with a final plan. Abu Jahl, Matum Bin Ady and Walyd Bi Mughyra met Abu TalibR and said: "O Abu Talib! Adopt the most handsome youth of the Qurayish, Ammara Bin Walyd Bin Mughyra, and in exchange hand over Mohammad to us, so that we may kill him as punishment of reproaching our gods, and calling us fools.”

Hearing this weird proposal Abu TalibR replied unheedingly: "You have not been just, how is it possible that I bring up your son and in return allow you to kill my son, you all are free to show enmity, leave my sight, and do whatever you please".

This rebuke subdued the chiefs to certain extent. However their suggestions worried and saddened Abu TalibR. His famous laudatory poem was conceived during this period of anxiety. Now he was afraid that the infidels may succeed in uniting the Arabs, mainly the members of Hashmite tribe, against the prophet. Hence he put down his feelings in his poem, in such a manner that the enemy's plans were revealed very effectively. In fact every line is a record of history and these were recited frequently by member of the Hashmite tribe. Even after Prophet‟s migration to Medina, his companions used to recite lines from this poem to prophet. Translation of some lines is as follows:

Translation: "When I perceived that my tribes have declared open enmity then the first Seerat Ibne Hisham1 action I took was to lift the flexible spears and the white bladed sword, my Printed: Egypt-1995 Pages: 270 and 280 ancestor‟s heritage, and I prepared my soul to kill or get killed. (Lines: 2-4).

Spirit of Islam Then I gathered my brothers and my Kith and kin and holding the red curtains Page: 101 of the House of God. (Line: 5).

Tareeh Ibne Kaseer3 I take refuge with my Lord against all my enemies who taunt me of evil-doing Page: 57 and insist on their own infidel and absurd Ways. (Line: 10).

All these books have I take refuge in this House of God, which stands in the center of Mecca I pray the poetry printed in their editions. for shelter to God who is All knowing. (Line: 13). O enemies! By God and by His Reverend House. You got it wrong and you lied when you said that you could snatch away MohammadS forcefully from us. No never, this cannot happen until we die fighting for him with our swords, spears and bows and arrows. Think not that we will readily hand over MohammadS to you. Definitely this will not happen during our lives, we will die one by one defending him, to the last of our warriors". (Lines: 29-30)".

These two lines 29 and 30 were recited in the battle of Badar by the injured Ubeyda Bin Harith in front of the prophet. Hearing these the prophet prayed for the departed soul of Abu TalibR.

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"By God we are in such a state of mind, that if the present situation does not change, then soon our swords may surround your prominent chiefs and pierce their bodies". (Line: 33).

This line was recited by Abu BakrR when in the Battle of Badr the famous chiefs of Quraiysh were slain, such as Atba, Shyba and Abu Jahl, and their bodies were thrown into a ditch.

O group of Quraiysh! Shame on you. For how can a people abandon their par- excellent chief, who always is honest in keeping his promises and agreements. He is neither abusive nor indecent in his conversations. (Line: 36). This chief has a bright shining face (a pleasant appearance), people pray to God for rain through him as a mediator. He is the guardian of orphans and a shelter for the widows. (Line: 37).

This has reference to the prophet in Medina, while praying for rain during a drought.

Spread this message among the descendents of Qussay (the Quraiysh) that soon Islam will spread and also tell them they will become helpless and unprotected without us. (Line: 69). Thus I pray to God to make MohammadS immortal in his elegance and dignity for this world and excellent in grandeur and grace for his friends. May he be the great achiever. (Line: 74). Can any other be like him among people? If judges were to scrutinize people for selecting the best caliber of a human being, he will be the centre of every one‟s attention. (Line: 75). He is polite, the guided one, the just who never loses his temper. He adores the Almighty Creator, the All-knowing Lord who also cares for him. (Line: 76). This is known by all that our son (MohammadS) has never even been suspected of telling lies by any one. We do not care if someone thinks otherwise. (Line: 79). Ahmed is under the protection of such a clan that he is out of reach of even the most powerful of his enemies. (Line: 80). Because I have personally become a shield for him and will use all my authority and power to defend him. (Line: 81). May the Great Protector of his servants grant him victory and supremacy of his preached faith as it is the Just and Right One. (Line: 82).

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After including these verses in his book Seerat, Ibne Hisham wrote that he believed in the authenticity of this piece of poetry and its‟auther Abu TalibR.

Spirit of Islam It was in this laudatory poem that Abu TalibR announced that each and every Syed Ameer Ali member of the Hashim and Muttalib clan will readily die fighting to defend the Pages: 102-103 life of this youth (the prophet). During the same period a chief of Yathrib (Medina) wrote a letter to the Quraiysh of Mecca, in which he referred to the conflicts and battles of the past (fought between the tribes) and suggested they should now refrain from such evil battles amongst themselves. He advised them: "To pay attention to the teachings of the New Teacher". He further stated: "A respected dignified person speaks of a new religion why you are after him? Only the Creator and Owner of the heavens are aware of the hidden secrets of human souls".

The reproach of Abu TalibR and the advice of the chief of Medina had some effect on the Quraiysh. They refrained from open hostility for some time but not from enmity, slander, and insulting remarks.

This was the same period when Mecca had faced drought since seven years. There were no rains and people suffered badly from famine, hunger and death. This was the outcome of their own deeds. Quran warns them:

Al-Quran God present the example of a town which enjoyed peace and security, its‟ Surah Nahl-16 provisions coming from every where in abundance, but it denied the favors of Verses: 112-113 God; so God acquainted it with intimate hunger and fear (as punishment) for

what they had done. An apostle came to them who was one of them, but they called him liar. Then they were seized by torment for they were sinners.

Due to their rejection of Divine Blessings in the form of Allah‟s Messenger MohammadS, the Arab infidels were afflicted with hunger, thirst, fear and hardship. They deserved Divine Chastisement because of their deeds:

Tradition: Famine and drought shattered the prejudice and arrogance of Quraiysh to such Ibne Abbas an extent that eating their pride, their chief Abu Suffyan requested prophet MohammadS to pray to his Lord to end this period of distress. Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The prophet prayed to his Lord, who heard and rain poured down as a blessing Pages: 577 and 269 ending the drought.

The reproach of Abu TalibR and the chastisement of drought had silenced the waging tongues of the Quraiysh. This was the best of times to reform the people mired in wickedness, impiety, and

188 idol-worship. Taking advantage of the opportunity, the prophet placed before them the teachings of Islam:

Al-Quran  Do not setup another god with God, or you will remain disgraced and Surah Bani Israel-17 destitute. Verses: 22 to 37  Do not worship anyone but him.  Be good to your parents. If one or both of them grow old in your presence,

do not say fie to them nor reprove them; but say gentle words to them, and look after them with kindness and love, and say: “O Lord, have mercy on them as they nourished me when I was young”.  Your Lord knows what is in your heart. If you are righteous he is indeed

forgiving to those who turn to Him in repentance. Give to your relatives what is their due and to those who are needy and the way farers, and do not dissipate (your wealth) extravagantly.

 Those who dissipate (their wealth) are the brethren of devil and the devil

was ungrateful to his Lord.  If you have to turn away from helping your parents (due to your inability) seeking mercy from your Lord hopefully, then speak to them kindly.

 Do not be niggardly, nor so extravagant that you may later feel reprehensive and constrained. Certainly your Lord provides with open hands whomsoever He wills, but according to capacity, for He knows and watches his creatures.

 Do not abandon your children out of fear of poverty. We will provide for them and for you. Killing them is certainly a great wrong.

 Do not go near fornication, as it is immoral and an evil way.

 Do not take a life, which God has forbidden, except in a just cause. We have given the right (of redress) to the heir of the person who is killed, but he shouted not exceed the limit (of justice) by slaying the killer, for he will be

judged (by the same law).

 Do not touch the property of orphans except for bettering it, until they come of age; and fulfill the promise made. You will surely be questioned about the promise. Give full measure when you are measuring, and weigh on a

balanced scale. This is better and excellent in consequence.  Do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Verily the ear, the eye, the heart, each will be questioned.

 Do not strut about the land with insolence. Surely you cannot cleave the earth nor attain the height of mountains in stature.

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The prophet recited these verses of the Holy Quran repeatedly before his people as well as all those who arrived in Mecca as pilgrims or traders. He again and again spoke about the good tidings that their reformation will ultimately bring down i.e, Divine Blessings and Benevolence. Along with these he also warned them: If you will not follow the right path and deviate from it, Divine Chastisement, it bound to come.

History tells us that during the thirteen years of Prophet‟s preaching in Mecca. It was only after the drought that Arabs of Mecca and its suburbs paid attention to what the prophet said and preached. The result was a rapid conversion to Islam.

However some of the arrogant chiefs of Quraiysh due to their prejudice were in total opposition to prophet‟s teachings. Some of these chiefs were:

1. Abu Lahb from Banu Hashim. Real uncle of Prophet (mothers of Abu TalibR and Abu Lahb were different). 2. Abu Suffyan from Banu Umaiyya. Chief of Umaiyya tribe and father of Ma‟awiya. 3. Walyd Bin Mughyra from Banu The powerful Chief of Quraiysh and father of Makhzum. Khalid-bin-Walid. 4. Abu Jahl from Banu Makhzum. Nephew of Walyd and chief of the clan. 5. Utba Bin Rabiya. Maternal grandfather of Ma‟awiya. 6. Aas Bin Wayil of Banu Sahm. A rich trader, father of many sons and a large family. 7. Atba Bin Abi Moiet of Banu Umaiyya. A rich trader and father of many sons and a large family.

Above mentioned chiefs never paid attention to prophet‟s teachings, nor followed his advice. Their lives were mired in impiety and evilness. They were not prepared to leave their insolence and their ancient customs. They cherished their fore-father‟s faith of Polytheism and idol-worship. Their prejudices, and contempt for their rival tribe Banu Hashim had blinded their vision. When Divine Truth was revealed before them they acted as deaf and dumb. They cared little for Divine Advice and Blessings. The tidings of reaching paradise affected them as little as the news of punishment in Hell. They neither believed nor feared Divine Chastisement. They refuted all what the prophet said and refused to believe in the Reality of Monotheism, Prophet-hood, Life after Death, Paradise and Hell. Tribal rivalry and enmity between their clans made them ignore whatever the prophet said or recited from the Quran, for example the much repeated verses.

“Among you I have sent a person who is a blessing for the worlds, to give you glad tidings (Bashir) and to warn you (Nazir)”.

Or when the Hashmite prophet proclaimed:

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“O Group of Quraiysh! I have brought to you the gift of Kingdom of Arabian and non-Arabian lands provided you accept me as Messenger of God and proclaim the truth:

“There is no God except Allah”.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Page: 124 Abu Jahl replied on behalf of his associates: “We will never believe in Ibne Hisham Mohammad as a prophet, as he belongs to the tribe of Banu Hashim”. Page: 108 Egypt Edition.

History provides evidence that the smaller Arab tribes were practically under the influence of these devilish chiefs and the wealthy traders who could hardly tolerate the dignity, authority and power of Bani Hashim which was getting sky-rocked by the presence of a Prophet of God among them. They minced no words in declaring their intentions:

Spirit of Islam “Remember O Mohammad! We will not refrain from your opposition and will Page: 114 try to hinder your preaching, till the time either of us dies.

The Quraiysh opposition increased more and more as Quranic revelations descended in connection with the reprimand, censure and contempt of their behavior.

Al-Quran (Mohammad addressed): Surah Qalam-68 Do not yield to any despicable swearer, or backbiter, calumniator, and Verses: 10 to 16 slanderer, who hinders men from doing good; the transgressor who is sunk in

deep sin; any violent tyrant who additionally is base-born ( -son of an adulterous), simply because he possesses wealth and children. When you recite Our revelations to him, he says: “These are fables of long ago”. We shall brand him on the muzzle (a mark of stigma on the nose).

The Holy Quran (i) The hateful qualities mentioned in these verses made the enemies of holy Mirza Mehdi Puya. Prophet despicable particularly Walin ibne Mughaira for whom Quran used Page: 1223 the Arabic word , meaning son of an adulteress. When this verse was revealed, Walid, who was very proud of his high lineage went to his mother

in anger and demanded the truth about his birth. His mother said: “Your father was very rich, but as he was impotent, we did not have any child. So I cohabited with a slave and you were born”.

(ii) Quran‟s prediction about branding Walid with a mark of stigma on the nose was fulfilled in the battle of Badar, where he received a wound on his nose which remained as a mark of disgrace till his death.

Following verses were also revealed to reprimand Walid bin Mughaira:

Al-Quran Leave Me (to deal) with him whom I created (bare end) lonely, and gave him Surah Muddassir-74 abundant wealth and sons living in his presence, to whom I made (life) smooth Verses: 11 to 26 and comfortable. Yet he desires that I should give him more. Never. He has 191

been hostile to our Signs. Soon I will afflict him with a severe punishment; verily he had thought and calculated.

May he be ruined, how he planned. May he then be ruined, how he plotted. Then he looked around, frowned and scowled, then he turned his back and swelled with pride and said: “This is nothing but sorcery of old, nothing but the word of a human being”. Soon I will cast him into the fire of hell.

The other wicked person Abu Jahl, belonged to the tribe Banu Makhzum and was a nephew of Walyd Bin Myghyra. His real name was Umru. Due to his rude, illiterate and uncivilized manners the title of Abu Jahl (father of Ignorance) was given to him by God and His Messenger.

It is narrated that when God commanded MohammadS to start praying in the courtyard of Ka’ba, Abu Jahl was the first person who stopped him and objected. As the prophet paid no attention to him and continued praying, one day as he passed by and saw the prophet praying he was furious and said:

Commentary on “O Mohammad! Had I not forbidden you to pray here”? Quran Kareem The prophet admonished him, he came near the prophet and said: Pages: 1732-1733 “From what do you try to terrify and unnerve me? In this valley I have a large

Sahie Tirmizi number of supporters, and members of my tribe”. Masnad Ahmed Uttering these words, he approached the prostrated prophet, and lifted his foot Tafseer-e-Tabari to press it down the prophet‟s neck. Suddenly he moved back (as if pushed by Sahie Muslim an unseen power) and placed his hands around his face as if trying to save it from something. People seeing him act such strangely asked: “what Narration happened”? Ibne Ishaque He replied: “I see a ditch full of fire, and many angels between me and Mohammad”. Then the prophet addressed those who were present: “If he would have tried to come near me, these Angels would have burnt him in the fire”.

This warning was not taken seriously by Abu Jahl, instead he promised the Quraiysh chiefs that: “Tomorrow I will crush the head of Mohammad with a big stone while he is prostrating before his God”. The next morning when the prophet stood facing both Ka’ba and Bait-al-Maqdas (in Jerusalem), and started praying. Abu Jahl approached him with a big stone in his hand and tried to crush Prophet‟s head as he prostrated in his prayers. The Quraiysh chiefs and elites had also gathered to see Abu Jahl fulfilling his promise. They were surprised to see Abu Jahl standing paralyzed with the stone stuck in his hand. He appeared terrified, and suddenly turned back and ran in fear. When asked, he replied that as he went near Mohammad he saw a monster like camel standing guard with its horrible mouth open, it appeared as if it was ready to attack him. 192

When Abu TalibR heard about this incident he uttered these verves as a warning to the Quraiysh: Diwan-e-Abu Talib  “O Bani Ghalib (Quraiysh)! Come to your senses and give up the path of sin. Page: 14  For I am apprehensive that disaster will strike you in your very abodes.

Shareh  In the same manner as it descended upon A’d and Thamud. Nahjul-Balagha.  Isn‟t it strange and abnormal that the stone got stuck in the hands of Abu Jahl Ibn Abi-al-Hadeed when he wished to strike a pious, truthful and patient person”. Vol: 3, Page: 314  That fool of Banu Makhzun (Abu Jahl) was mislead and fooled by the wicked deprived people but he did not succeeded in his mission.

About Abu Jahl who had crossed all boundaries of enmity, God Almighty decreed a punishment which would serve as an eye-opener for the unbelievers. The Holy Quran predicted:

Al-Quran Have you thought that if he denies and turns away, does he know that God Surah Alaq-96 sees? Verses: 13-16 And yet indeed, if he does not desist, We shall drag him by the forelock, by the

“lying the sinful forelock”.

Quran-al-Karim Abu Jahl was an important chief in the army of unbelievers who attacked (Urdu). Muslims in the battle of Badar. They lost the battle and Abu Jahl was killed. Tafseer by: Maulana After the Battle, his dead body was dragged by the forelock and thrown in a pit. Shabbir Ahmed The predictions of Quran were thus fulfilled after a few years of prediction. Usmani. Page: 797

It was strange and worth pondering that the disdainful warnings to the Quraiysh chiefs were coming out of the lips of a person who apparently was an orphan, was son-less and clearly possessed no power and authority. Yet the Quraiysh chiefs did not dare to take any violent reprisals as long as Abu TalibR was alive. Outwardly they only heard what the prophet said and mocked him but internally their conceit and arrogance increased their prejudice against Hashmite.

The rest of the tribes though were non-believers and idol-worshipers yet had no prejudice or enmity with Banu Hashim. Instead many respected them, and maintained friendly and business relations with them. But when it came to open hostility these tribes sided with Quraiysh because of their common faith and belief. The Holy Quran had already warned them:

Al-Quran Verily, you and what you worship besides Allah shall be fuel for hell and Surah Anbiya-21 you shall come to it. Verse: 98

But nothing of this had an effect on them, neither did they leave their beliefs and idol-worship nor did they care for the warning of chastisement and punishment of Hell. They allied with Quraiysh and fought with the Muslims until the time Mecca was conquered by the prophet.

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Torture of Muslims by the Infidels:

The fifth year of prophethood of MohammadS, was full of strife, struggle, hardships and trials for him and his followers. The Quraiysh chiefs despite offering temptations, and openly opposing, reproaching and rebuking, failed in enticing the converted Muslims away from the path of the righteousness and Islam. Failing in all their efforts the worst plan they made was that if some persons accepted Islam, their family members, their clan and tribe will not only treat them badly but will also inflict physical torture on them. They believed this tactic will soon weaken their faith and they would revert to the faith of their ancestors.

The historical record of all these abuses, humiliations and physical torture is nerve shattering. The saddest part is that the recipients of this torture were only few among the kith and kin of Quraiysh, but majority were the helpless slaves and maids, who suffered badly at the hands of their masters.

This plan of Quraiysh proved very damaging and devastating sor the small Muslim community. There were very few exceptions who escaped this revenge, because Quraiysh feared their tribal- strength, for example: MohammadS, AliA, JaffarR, KhadijaR, UthmanR, Abu BakrR. etc. The rest suffered at the hands of their enemies, and faced their barbaric acts, because they were weaker and helpless.

The heartless Quraiysh lost no opportunity to have these feeble defenseless Muslims in their clutches, then they beat them up severely, kept them hungry and thirsty for hours, made them lie on burning ground at midnoon in the sweltering heat of the desert after tying their hands and feet, then would put huge stones on their chests, so that they could not move. They behaved like sadist as they devised many ways of torture, sometimes they made the Muslims lie on the bed of burning red coals; and often branded their naked bodies with hot iron. Some of those who suffered these barbaric acts were Habeeb-bin Al-Harith, Abu Fakeeh, Bilaal the Abyssinian, Amaar his father Yasir and mother Summya and Sohyb Roomi. Summya mother of Amaar was wounded to death by Abu Jahl. She was the first martyr of Islam.The second martyr of Islam was her husband Yasir who died due to torture by the non-believers.

Spirit of Islam The first phase of Islamic history is full of such martyrs who suffered and died Syed Ameer Ali in the way of Allah, and never thought of changing their faith, they preferred Page: 106 death.

Abu BakrR, UthmanR and KhadijaR the wealthy amongst the Muslims bought many Muslim slaves and maids and set them free. They bought them liberty from the clutches of their sadist masters. Prominent example is of Bilaal, who was bought by Abu BakrR from Ummya Bin Khalf and thus Bilaal‟s life was saved.

Though not a single Muslim changed religion despite the barbaric savage torture of Quraiysh yet they suffered in other ways:

1. Muslims confined themselves in their homes.

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2. Many Muslins were turned out of their homes by family members and relatives. 3. The business of the Muslins suffered and many became jobless.

The financial hardship of Muslims was helped out by the prophet along with the help of his wealthy wife KhadijaR.

Prophet himself was under the protection of Abu TalibR. However whenever he was alone and met any Quraiysh he was taunted reproached and harassed. The astonishing fact was that one of the main perpetrators of harassment were his uncle Abu Lahb and his wife. Though Abu TalibR many a times approached his brother and sister in law and politely argued with them and tried to make them understand that:

Ibne Abul Hadeed “O Shybatul Hamd! Son of Abdul Muttalib (Abu Lahb), I am surprised at the Ref: by Mohammad lack of your common sense and of all those others too who are with you. Ibne Ishaque Those ignorant people who lack common sense, ask you to treat badly and

cruelly those who follow the holy prophet MohammadS. They want you to stand in his opposition. Nahaj-ul-Balagha-3 Remember all of these perpetrators are callous and vicious people. Amongst them some are dis-honest, treacherous, and envious, none of them is sincere to you. I ask you to refrain acting against MohammadS, and stop censuring him, and prove yourself worthy of belonging to the honorable branch of Abd Munaf ”.

Abu Lahb and his wife not only neglected such advice but exceeded many others in their opposition and harassment of Prophet.

Greatest effort of Quraiysh was to prevent MohammadS from offering prayers in the House of God (Ka’ba). Whenever they saw him approaching they followed him, and threw upon him dust, garbage, mud and whatever they could take hold off, as he walked towards Ka’ba. While talking they would abuse, and try to insult him with their insolent words of contempt. Abu Lahb and his wife Umme Jamil would lay down thorns in his path, when his gown would entangle in those thorns and his feet would bled, they would applaud at their heinous deeds. The worst heartless among his tormentors were his own uncle and his aunt.

Abu Lahb and his wife were neighbors of MohammadS. Umme Jamil was the sister of Abu Sufyan, and it was her routine that each morning she would throw horny bushes outside the door of the prophet. So whenever Prophet stepped out, his feet bled.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Abu Lahb was so much envious of MohammadS that when after Qasim the Pages: 523 to 527 second son Abdullah of the prophet died (an infant death), instead of offering condolence to the prophet, he hurried to give the tidings to Quraiysh chiefs that “today MohammadS has become heirless (childless). Now he has no son to carry on his name in this world”.

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Tariq bin Abdullah-ul-Muaraby narrates that “Once I saw in the market of Zulmajaz, the prophet saying to people: „Utter these words with conviction “There is no god but Allah”. You will be blessed with benefits‟.

Following the prophet was a person who hurled stones at the prophet. He did not stop though he saw the blood stained clothes of the prophet. I asked people: “who is this person?” they replied: “He is Abu Lahb, uncle of the prophet”. (Ref: Tirmizi Sharif).

Amongst the Arabs, great importance was always attacked to congenial polite relations with relatives. But this man (Abu Lahb), in his enmity even forgot that age old Arabic tradition. He is one of the few persons who have been reproached directly by name in the Quran.

Surah Lahb-111 May the hands of Abu Lahb perish. May he (too) perish. Of no avail shall be Summary of the his wealth, nor what he earns. Soon he shall burn in flaming fire. And his wife, whole Surah the portress of fire wood, will have a strap of twisted rope around her neck.

Amongst many other prophesies of the Quran, this was one which was fulfilled in a short span of time. The words that “Abu Lahb‟s hands will perish” meant soon he would be left helpless and vulnerable and was bound to fail in all his plans. In the Battle of Badr, when many of Quraiysh chiefs were killed, their death grieved him to such an extent that he fell ill and developed an infectious malignant disease “Pustule”. Due to this infectious disease his family members left him alone and when he died nobody touched his dead body due to fear. When his corpse started decomposing, his son dug a ditch pushed the corpse with sticks and then ditched it, covering it with stones. Before death in his illness, he had lost mental balance, and uttered nonsense, hearing which people called him a “Mad Man”.

Prophecy of victory of Rome after its‟ defeat:

In 614 AD when the fourth year of the prophet-hood of MohammadS was ending, the Persian Emperor Khusrau Parwez defeated the Roman Caesar Heraclius. Jerusalem was totally destroyed, the Persian Zoroastrian victors took away Holy Cross to Madayn. Nearly 90,000 Christians were killed in this battle. When this news reached Arabia, the Arab idol-worshipers also celebrated the victory of the fire- worshipping Persians over the Monotheist Christians. The infidels and non-believers of Mecca were overjoyed, whereas Muslims were aggrieved. The infidels taunted the Muslims: “Just like the believers of prophet (Christ) and their Divine Revelations have been destroyed and overpowered, similarly your faith and you will be eliminated and crushed”.

At this juncture for the consolation of Muslims, God revealed these verses to Prophet MohammadS:

Al-Quran The Byzantine empire has been defeated in a nearby land. But after this defeat Surah Rum-30 they will soon be victorious in a few years (less than ten). On that day the Verses: 2 to 6 believers will rejoice. God is the imperative first and last. 196

Hearing these Divine words the anxiety of the Muslims disappeared. They were encouraged and soothed, as they fully believed in the prophesy of Quran.

The infidels however mocked and refuted the prophet as it seemed almost certain that Persian forces had totally annihilated the Roman Empire. But in a short span of less than 10 years (2nd Hijri i.e, 624 AD) Meccans heard and history recorded that Caesar Heraclius and his armies defeated Khusrau Perwez and this Roman victory coincided with the Muslim victory over the Meccans in the battle of Badar. Thus the two predictions of Quran (victory of Romans and rejoicing of Muslims by winning battle of Badar) got fulfilled with the promised period of less than 10 years.

Migration to Abyssinia:

However prior to this Roman victory, the infidels of Mecca had an upper hand over the Muslims. Their tyranny and aggression reached its climax; so much so that life became unbearable for the Muslims in Mecca. The situation needed a solution and Prophet MohammadS at that juncture asked Muslim to migrate to neighboring Abyssinia.

Hadith of the holy God ordained the prophet to ask Muslims to migrate. The prophet then told the prophet referred in: Muslims: Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 “It will be better for you to migrate to Abyssinia. Its ruler is just and Page: 53 benevolent. Under him Abyssinia is a land of peace, welfare and justice. It is free of tyranny. Stay there till God provides means of regress to your misery and sufferings”.

Abyssinia is situated in east of the African Continent. The Red Sea separates it from the Arabian Peninsula. There is a narrow strait between the south western tip of Arabian Peninsula and south eastern tip of Abyssinia. This strait is merely 1 mile wide and joins the Red Sea with the Bay of Aden. Since centuries this strait had been a well-known sea-route of trade between Arabia, Yemen and Abyssinia. The Abyssinian Emperor was called Najashey in Arabia; he was Christian and an ally of the Romans.

Life of Mohammad As God wished and MohammadS complied, atleast 12 Muslims migrated Page: 55 secretly. This migration took place in the 5th year of Prophet-hood i.e, 615 AD. The Meccan infidels when came to know about it, they pursued them, but the Muslims were under the protection of their Lord. They boarded a ship headed for Abyssinia, much before the infidels reached the place of their departure. After the first group‟s success many others left for Abyssinia, and soon their number increased to 83 males and 18 females.

Muslim immigrants found peace, and freedom in Abyssinia. The emperor gave them permission to settle down in his kingdom. They were allowed to carry out any business they pleased, and were under the personal refuge of the Emperor. Nobody interfered in their religious faith and rituals.

The prominent personalities among those who migrated were:

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1. Umme HabibaR (sister of Abu-Suffyan from Banu Ummiya). 2. UthmanR Bin Uffan and his wife RuqqiyaR. 3. Uthman Bin MazounR. 4. Jaffar Bin Abu TalibR and his wife Asma binte AmeesR. 5. Zubyr bin-al-AwamR. 6. Abu SalmaR and his wife Umme SalmaR. 7. Abdur-Rehman Bin A‟ufR. 8. Abdullah Ibne MasudR.

As the immigrants were trying to settle down in Abyssinia, the Meccan Quraiysh were foaming with fury as to how Muslims escaped their clutches. This fury was first vented out on those Muslims who were still in Mecca. Quraiysh were at a loss to understand despite their vigilance, how everyday two or three Muslims succeeded in leaving Mecca for Abyssinia. They failed firstly in preventing their fellow tribesmen from converting to Islam, and secondly they could not stop the new phenomenon of migration.

They mused and consulted then decided to send a diplomatic delegation to the Abyssinian Emperor. They decided to inform the Emperor that actually the emigrants were not the oppressed ones (as they had declared) but they were criminals who had escaped justice. So they should be returned back to Mecca to face justice.

As soon as this delegation under the leadership of Abdullah Bin Rabiya and Umru bin Al-A‟as left Mecca the news reached Abu TalibR. He was worried and at this stage he felt helpless. Then he decided to send someone in the Emperor‟s court. The courier was given some of his famous verses to recite before the Emperor. They were:

Seerat “O Emperor! I know that you excel in benevolence. Hence, those who have Ibne Hisham-1 taken refuge with you may not face hardships. O Emperor! God has bestowed you with good will and wealth more than many History Ibne Kasyr-3 others. You are noble and truthful. You are most generous and your generosity Shareh extends equally to friends and enemies. Nahaj-ul-Balagha-3 O Excellent ruler Najashy, you should know that Mohammad has a common Ibn-Abi-Hadeed cause with prophets MosesA and JesusA son of Mary. He was sent to us just as MosesA and JesusA were. Each one of them came as Messenger and Guide to his people from Allah. They led people towards the right path. You have been reading about him is your (holy) Books as a reality not fiction. You are such a person that whenever people come to you in hope of your benevolence and generosity, they always return gracefully (satisfied). O Emperor! How I wish to know what happened to my son Jaffar in an alien land. I also want to know of what did Umru bin A‟as and other enemies of the prophet accomplished (in your court). How I wish to know how well Jaffar and his companions were treated by the Emperor, and how did Umru A‟as fare in preventing you from your generosity.

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We do not know whether these verses reached the Emperor or not, as history is silent about it. However the generous compassionate treatment of the Emperor towards the refugees and special status given to Jaffar bin Abu TalibR itself speaks that something extraordinary did happen, which made the Emperor mete out the generous treatment.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Umru bin A‟as and Abdullah bin Rabbiye along with expensive gifts reached Page: 100 the court of Najashy. They demanded of the Emperor that some criminals of their city had taken refuge with him. These persons have abandoned their Seerat-ul-Nabi Pages: 135-136 ancestor‟s religion and had invented a new faith. This had created chaos and crisis in our country. So we ask you to hand them over to us and order their Life of Mohammad exile. Page: 55 The Emperor had already taken these Muslims under his protection and granted them asylum in his country. He had not acted on impulse, but had Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 taken calculated steps. Hence he refused to comply to their demand. Page: 55 However he summoned the Muslims in the court in presence of the Meccan delegates, and questioned them: “Tell me which faith have you adopted after abandoning idol-worship”. Jaffar Ibne Abu TalibR who was more knowledgeable about Quran than the others, replied thus: “O Emperor! We were an ignorant illiterate nation, people among us worshiped idols, ate impure things, were wicked and evildoers, in short led a life of vice. Then a person was born amongst us, who was well known for his honesty and virtuous character. He invited them to Islam a faith which said:  To stop and refrain from prostrating before stone sculptures.  To refrain from eating impure things.  To stop Blood-shed.  To give up evil ways.  To start preaching Truth and to follow it.  T o respect women,  To pray to God.  To Fast.  To give Zakat. Our people believed him and refrained from all evil, sinful and vicious ways of life. O Emperor! This is our crime for which the unbelieving tribes have become our enemies. To evade them we took refuge in your country to escape their brutality”. Hearing this the Emperor questioned: “Did Divine Revelations descend on your prophet”?

Jaffar in reply recited verses from Surah Marium from the Holy Quran. Hearing the very initial verses, his eyes became wet with emotions. The verses said:

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Al-Quran  Make mention of Maryam in the Book, when she withdrew from her family Surah Maryam-19 to a house east-wards. Then she put up a curtain (to cover herself) from Verses: 16-33 them.  Then We sent to her Our spirit and he appeared to her exactly like a sound human being.  She said: “Verily I seek refuge with Ar-Rehman (the Beneficent) from you, if you are God-fearing”.  He said: “I am only a messenger from your Lord, that I may give you a holy son”.  She said: “How can I have a son while no man has touched me, neither I have been unchaste”?  He said: “So it shall be. Your Lord says: “It is easy for me”, and that “We shall make him a Sign for people and a mercy from Us. It is a matter (already) decreed”.  So she conceived him, and retired with him to a remote place. The birth- pangs led her to the trunk of a palm tree. “Would that I had died before this” she said “and had been a thing forgotten, lost in oblivion!”  Then (a voice) called her from beneath: “Do not grieve; verily your Lord has made a spring flow right below you. Shake the trunk of the palm-tree towards yourself; it will drop fresh and ripe dates on you. So eat and drink and cool your eyes. If you see any human being, say: “Verily I have vowed a fast to Ar-Rehman (the Beneficent Lord), and I shall not speak to anyone today”.  Then she came with him to her people, carrying him. They said: “O Maryam, indeed you have brought a strange thing. O sister of Haarun, your father was not a bad man, nor was your mother an unchaste woman”.  Then she pointed to him (the child Jesus). They said: “How can we speak to one who is only a child in the cradle”?  (The child) Jesus spoke: “Verily I am a servant of Allah. He has given me a Book and made me a prophet. He has made me blessed wherever I may be and He has enjoined on me Salat (prayer) and Zakat (charity) as long as I live. And be dutiful to my mother. He has not made me haughty or rebellious. There was peace on me the day I was born, the day I die and the day I shall be raised alive.  This is Jesus the son of Mary and it is a statement of truth about which they dispute. Allah is not one to take Himself a son. Glory to be Him. When he decrees a matter He only say “BE” and it becomes.

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Hearing these verses from Quran, the Emperor declared: “No doubt what these verses reveal is the same what Jesus Christ did reveal. Both also share the same source. By God! I will not hand over these people”.

Umru bin A‟as decided to meet the Emperor again in the absence of Muslims. When he met he said: “These Muslims speak ill of Christianity, call them again and ask them about their belief of Jesus Christ”?

So the Emperor summoned Muslims again and inquired about Jesus Christ. Without any hesitation Jaffar bin Abi TalibR read the verse from Quran:

Al-Quran O people of the Book, do not be fanatical in your faith and say nothing but the Surah Nisa-4 truth about the God. The Messiah who is Jesus, son of Mary, was only an Verse: 171 apostle God and a command of His which He sent to Mary, as a Mercy from

Him. So believe in God and His apostles and do not call Him Trinity. Abstain from this for your own good; for God is only one God. It is far from His Glory to beget a son. All that is in heaven and earth belongs to Him and sufficient is God for all help.

Hearing this the Emperor was moved. He picked up a piece of straw and exclaimed: “By God! Whatever you have said about Jesus, he was neither a straw more nor a straw less”.

Then the Emperor returned all gifts brought by the Meccan delegates and refused to comply with their demand. All this conversation was done in Arabic. The inter-travelling of traders in both the countries had made Arabic a known language in Abyssinia; it was also spoken there. The unsuccessful return of the delegation not only frustrated the Meccans, they were enraged and irritated. The fact was that nearly every family in Mecca had lost a relative to Islam of whom many had migrated to Abyssinia.

The escape of Muslims from the infidels brutality further aggravated the situation. They started misbehaving with the prophet himself and hostility towards the few Muslims left in Mecca knew no bounds.

Ameer HamzaR and Islam:

Spirit of Islam Ameer HamzaR was the youngest uncle of the prophet; he was nearly two or Syed Ameer Ali three years older than the prophet. He was a courageous, brave and Pages: 102- 103 experienced warrior. Amongst the Arabs Quraiysh were respected, amongst

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 the Quraiysh the Hashmite were the most courageous and honored whereas R Page: 99 amongst the Hashmite, Hamza was matchless as far as his gallantry and valour was concerned. The Quraiysh respected and kept his friendship, as he Seerat-un-Nabi-1 had not embraced Islam. HamzaR however loved his nephew and often was Pages: 127-128 201

disturbed at the attitude of the Quraiysh towards the Muslims.

One day as he returned from hunting, he met the ex-maid of Abdullah Bin Jada‟an who said: “O Abu Amaraa! Some moments back Abu-al-Hakm bin Hashaam (i.e, Abu Jahl) abused your nephew MohammadS and misbehaved, yet your nephew did not react and kept silent”.

HamzaR was furious and went in search of Abu Jahl. He saw him along with the Quraiysh chiefs sitting in the Ka’ba courtyard. Hamza approached him and hit him with his heavy bow on the head. As he bled, HamzaR shouted: “How dare you abuse MohammadS, you should know I have accepted his preached faith. Now if you are brave enough then abuse him in my presence”.

At this declaration of HamzaR, the Quraiysh were stunned their heat of enmity lessened for a while. They refrained from open hostility yet their secret conspiracies and oppression continued.

Utba bin Rabiya‟s Offer:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 The oldest biographer of the prophet, Mohammad Bin Ishaque writes with Pages: 434-435 reference to Mohammad Bin Ka‟ab Qurtabi (one of the Taabiyeen) that after Summary. the proclamation of HamzaR of embracing Islam, one day the Quraiysh chiefs

were sitting in the courtyard of Ka’ba. This new conversion worried them and they were pondering over this new development when the father-in-law of Abu Suffyan, Utba bin Rabiya, saw the prophet sitting at the other end. After due consultation with all chiefs, he approached the prophet and addressed him:

The holy Quran “O nephew! your lineage, clan and tribe amongst the nation is the most Mirza Mehdi Puya prestigious and we all are aware of it, yet you have brought for your people a Page: 1015 great catastrophe, and have divided the whole nation. You regard all your people as fools, mock their faith and abuse their gods. You talk in a manner as if our fore-fathers were infidels.

Now listen to what I propose and then accept any one of the suggestions I make.  If you want wealth and riches, then we are prepared to give you so much wealth that you will become the wealthiest person of the land.  If you wish for power and authority, we are willing to make you our chief.  If you yearn for our kingdom and be our ruler, we will readily accept you as a Ruler.  If you are under some evil-spell, which haunts you, we are here to help you, and to provide the best ever cure of famous medics. In the eyes of Quraiysh Utba was the most appropriate man to talk to MohammadS as he was well versed in poetry and knowhow of sorcery and soothsaying.

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The prophet patiently heard all this and in reply recited the following verses of the Holy Quran.

Al-Quran Start with the name of Allah, the most Kind, the most Merciful. Ha-Mim Sajda-41 Quran is the Book revealed the Arabic by the Almighty Lord whose verses are Verses: 2 to 8 fully expounded. It is a bearer of glad tidings and a warner. But most of them

turn away and do not listen. They say: “our hearts are covered against what you

invite us to, and there is heaviness in our ears, and a veil lies between us and you. So you act in your own way and verily we act in our own”. Say O Mohammad: “I am a man like you. It is revealed to me that your God is one God, so stand upright to Him and seek His forgiveness”. Woe to those who associate (false gods) with Allah. Who do not give a due share of their wealth for the welfare of others and do not believe in the hereafter.

The additional verses which Prophet recited after the above, are extremely important as they show the power of the Almighty Lord and surely must have lifted the curtains of ignorance from the eyes of those Quraiysh infidels. These verses speak very briefly but eloquently about the different “Phases” involved in the creation of this earth:

Al-Quran  Do you really disbelieve in Him who created the earth in two Youm (long Ha-Mim Sajda-41 periods), and you set-up equals to Him, the One who is the Lord of all the Verses: 9 to 12 worlds? (After the formation of earth) He put firm mountains therein rising above it‟s surface.  Then He bestowed blessings on it and ingrained it‟s means of substance within it in four Youm (long periods), sufficient for all seekers. (After the formation of earth and mountains, God Almighty made earth habitable in four phases of long duration which involved formation of atmosphere, availability of water, pouring down the rains flow of rivers and springs, fertilization of earth, growth of greenery and food, etc.).  Then He turned to the heavens and it was smoke (mixture of gases). So He said to it and the earth: “Come you two willingly or unwillingly”. They said: “We come willingly”. (This verse relates to the formation of atmosphere around earth, as it was an impossible task because of two opposite forces. Earth gravity pulling the gases down and earth rotation throwing them out. God Almighty commanded this impossible task to be accomplished).  Then He made heavens in two Youm (long periods), and revealed to each heaven it‟s task. He adorned the lower heaven with lights, (bright stars) and guarded it (with angels). That is the Decree of All-mighty, the All-knowing.

After giving the infidels of Quraiysh some inkling of the greatness of Allah, the Almighty Lord, Prophet warned them of the consequences of rebelling against God and enmity against His Messengers. Prophet MohammadS recited these verses: 203

Al-Quran If even then they turn away, tell, them: “I forewarn you of a terrible punishment Ha-Mim Sajda-41 like the thunder-bolt that fell upon the A’ad and Thamud”. Their Apostles came Verses: 13 to 17 to them one after the other, saying: “Do not worship anyone but God”. They said: “Had our Lord willed, He would certainly have sent the angels down. We do not believe in that which you have been sent with”. As to the people of A’ad, they swelled with pride in the land without right. They said: “Who is mightier than us in power? Did they not see that Allah who created them, is mightier in power than they? Yet they denied Our Signs. So We sent upon them a violent wind in ill-fated days that We might make them taste the torment of disgrace in the life of this world. Certainly the chastisement of the Hereafter is more humiliating where they shall not receive any help. As to the people of Thamud, We guided them but they preferred blindness to guidance. So the torment of a humiliating chastisement seized them because they earned it by their misdeeds.

It is narrated by Jabir Ibne AbdullahR, that Utba was spell-bound as the prophet recited the Divine Words from the Quran. When he reached the verses about Divine punishment, the spell was broken. Utba suddenly stood up and putting his hand on the prophet‟s lips, pleaded:

“For God‟s sake have pity on your nation people”.

Prophet replied: “This Quran is such a Divine Word, that all your weapons of denial deceit and falsehood cannot defeat it”. Then he continued with the recitation of some more verses from Quran:

Al-Quran  The disbelievers say: “Do not listen to this Quran. Shout away its reading. Ha-Mim Sajda-41 You may happily prevail”. Verses 26-27  We shall make the disbelievers taste the severest punishment and retribute them for the worst that they had done.

Al-Quran  Among His signs are the night and the day, the sun and the moon. Do not Ha-Mim Sajda-41 prostrate before the sun and the moon, but prostrate before Allah who Verses 37-38 created them, if it is He whom you worship.  If they become arrogant, then verily those who are with your Lord glorify Him night and day without getting weary.

After the recitation of above verse prophet prostrated before his Lord, then raising his head he said: “O Abu Walyd! You have heard my reply, now I leave it up to you to decide and act, as you wish”.

Utba then returned to the Quraiysh chiefs, a completely changed man. Looking at him his companions exclaimed: “O God! Look at his face it has changed”. When he reached them they asked: “what did you hear‟? 204

Seerat Ibne Hisham-1 He replied: Pages: 313-314 “I have heard, such words the like of which I have never heard before. By God it is neither poetry nor fiction nor magic. O Quraiysh chiefs! My advice to you Tafheem-ul-Quran is to leave this person alone. Just think, if the Arabs succeed in overpowering Page: 435 him then you will be saved the dirty act of harming your brother with your own hands because the Arabs will settle the score. But it he succeeds in overpowering them and attains power and authority, then his dignified position will enhance your respect and honor amongst the people”. These words of Utba had just the opposite effect on the chiefs. They admonished him and declared: “O Abu Walyd! Mohammad has succeeded in charming you too, now you are under his spell”.

UmarR and Islam (6th year of prophethood):

Seerat-un-Nabi Maulana Shibly writes, when MohammadS received first revelation and Pages: 128-129 declared his prophethood, UmarR was 27 years old. He belonged to the tribe Adi Bin Ka’ab. His father Khattab too was amongst Spirit of Islam S Syed Ameer Ali those who severely criticized and opposed Prophet Mohammad . He was one Page: 120 of those who inflicted torture on Muslims and carried great enmity in his heart S against Mohammad . When the Quraiysh despite their conspiracies, failed to The Life of check the increasing number of people embracing Islam, then they decided to S Mohammad settle the score once for all by killing the prophet. It was UmarR who initiated this idea.

was the period when Muslims converts had taken refuge in the house of Arqam bin Arqam bin Abd Muna‟af, whose house was located on the mount of Suffa, at a safe distance from the enemies.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 About UmarR‟s acceptance of Islam there is a famous narration that when he Page: 84 embarked from his house with the intention of killing the prophet, he met a Summary person on his way, who said: “First take care of your own house, your sister and brother-in-law both have embraced Islam”.

Hearing this he changed plans and first went to his sister‟s house. In his fury he started beating them, till both bled. His sister‟s head was injured and she bled too much, yet they refused to submit to Umar‟s will and went on saying: “Yes, we are Muslims now do whatever you can”.

When UmarR was exhausted, his fury abated, his love for his sister rose. He softened his attitude and asked his sister what she was reciting when he entered her house. His sister recited the verses from Surah Taha. Hearing them he exclaimed: “what extra-ordinary words”.

Hubab bin Ars grabbed the opportunity and said: “O UmarR! Move towards Allah, come to His path”.

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UmarR was moved and attracted towards Islam. He left the house in search of prophet MohammadS along with Hubab. Meeting the prophet he declared his intentions and accepted Islam.

This incident occurred few days after the migration of first group of Muslims to Abyssinia.

The Abyssinian delegates accept Islam:

When news spread about the Muslim asylum seekers and the recital of Quranic verses in Abyssinian empire‟s court by Jaffar ibn Abu TalibR, the Christian priests and men of knowledge got anxious to know more about this new faith. So a delegation of twenty Christian priests of repute was formed to visit Mecca and to find out more details about this religion of Islam. This delegation met Prophet MohammadS in Ka’ba and put up their questions. Many unbelievers from Quraiysh were also present on the occasion, who were anxious to see the result of this dialogue. An account of this incident is written by Ibn Hashaam and Bayhaqi on the authority of Mohammad ibn Ishaq.

The answers given by Prophet MohammadS were so convincing that the Christian priests were greatly impressed. Prophet then recited these verses from Quran:

Al-Quran  Those to whom We gave the Book before this, do believe in it and when it is Surah Al-Qasas-28 read out to them, they say: “We believe in it. It‟s the truth from our Lord. Verses: 52-56 We had committed ourselves before it came”.

 These will be given their recompense twice for they persevered and repelled evil with good, and spent (in charity) of what We had given. When they hear idle talk, they turn aside and say: “To us our actions, to you yours. Peace be

on you. We do not desire (the company of) ignorant”.

 You cannot guide whomever you like, but Allah guides whomever He pleases, and He knows best those who follow guidance.

These Quranic verses confirm that the Christian delegation already had belief in the coming in the future prophet and they were waiting for this event to occur. Now after meeting prophet MohammadS they were convinced that the promised event had occurred and MohammadS was the Prophet about whom their holy books had predicted. They, therefore accepted Islam and God flowered His blessings on them.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 This was a great embarrassment and a cause of humiliation to the Quraiysh of Page: 645 Mecca. They could not accept the fact that they were rejecting the wealth of a Summary great faith which knocked at their doors whereas people from far off lands were coming to Mecca and were taking advantage of this Divine Blessings.

When Meccans heard this they were furious, they rebuked and scolded them and said: “What fools are you to abandon your faith so easily”.

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The reply of the delegates to the Meccans has become immemorial as it is recorded in the Quran. They did not care about absurd remarks of the Meccans chiefly that of Abu Jahl. They just turned aside and said: “To us our actions, to you yours. Peace be on you. We do not desire (the company of) ignorants”.

The ending verse (56) indicates that prophet MohammadS must have been aggrieved at the stubborn and insolent attitude of Quraiysh, his own people, as against a totally outsider group of Christians. God Almighty therefore consoled MohammadS by saying that: “You cannot guide whomsoever you like, but Allah Guides whomsoever He pleases. He knows best those who follow guidance”.

It is unfortunate and unfair that some believe verse 56 to be indicative of Abu TalibR being an un-believer. For example:

Tafhem-ul-Quran-3 While elaborating the last verse 56 of Surah Al-Qasas, it is narrated that it Page: 650 referred specially to Abu Talib and it means he had not accepted Islam.

The very manner and style of these verses (52 to 56) tells us they are closely related and have a continuity of subject matter. They clearly indicate the acceptance of Islam by the Abyssinian delegations, a laudable action the praise of delegation‟s gentle response to Quraiysh‟s insulting accusation‟s, and finally consolation to prophet MohammadS on his grief on insolence and stubbornness of Quraiysh.

Imam Imam Fakhr-ud-din says, these verse are definitely not about Abu TalibR and do Fakhar-ud-din Razi not refer to his infidelity and non-believing. As far as the faith of Abu TalibR is Tafseer-e-Kabir-25 concerned, only a few lines from his own poetry are enough to show his faith: Page: 13 S “O Mohammad ! you are a prophet, great leader (Syed), having a chaste appearance and the status of a noble chief. Ibne Abi Hadid You are the son of dignified, respected and pious chieftains and your very birth is also pious and austere. Shareh You are that prophet who receives Divine Revelations from your Lord, and Nahaj-ul-Balagha those who believe in this will never regret or be ashamed”.

Quraiysh intentions of Prophet‟s Assassination:

Al-Quran Have they settled on a plan? We shall also settle on one. Or do they think We Surah Zukhruf-43 do not hear their secrecies and stealthy consultations? Verse: 79-80 In fact, Our messengers (angels) who attend them record everything.

Tafheem-ul-Quran The elucidators of these verses state they refer and point to the ultimate Page: 651 planning and decision of the Quraiysh against the prophet.

Scholar Humbly Ibrahim bin Ali bin Mohammad Deenwary writes in his book “Nihayat-ul- Talab that as the Quraiysh failed and all their plans were foiled then Aqba bin Abi Moeet said:

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“Now only one last resort left is to eliminate Mohammad, however this can only be achieved through deceit and deception”.

However the news of this secret conspiracy somehow reached Abu TalibR. Hearing it he acted urgently and assembled the youth of Hashmite clan. And along with them he reached the gathering of the Quraiysh. Armed with swords he declared in that gathering:

“If MohammadS is assassinated then the finale will be reached between you and us by the sword. We will settle the score and fight till all of us perish”.

After his return, he readout some of his poetic lines: “Wherever the Quraiysh are found relay to them my message that all their conspiracies are based on self-deceit and arrogance. I am the guard of MohammadS and love him dearly. Are the Quraiysh ordering their youth to assassinate MohammadS? No, this cannot happen, as the Quraiysh will never succeed. Do they think that my sons will stay alive and see MohammadS killed? No, it is impossible”.

The social Boycott of the House of Banu Hashim. (616 AD Moharram, 7th year of prophet-hood.):

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 When all their conspiracies and deceptive plans failed the infidels of Mecca Page: 139 devised an evil strategy. They decided to severe all relations social, cultural and economical with Banu Hashim and to destroy their business. When Abu TalibR Spirit of Islam Syed Ameer Ali heard of this agreement of Quraiysh tribes, he summoned all members of Banu R Page: 121 Hashim clan. As they had already pledged unconditional loyalty to Abu Talib in all his actions. Now he advised them to lock their houses and to live togather The life of at one spot. All agreed and acted accordingly except Abu Lahb who sided with Mohammad the infidels and preferred to stay with them. The location chosen was a narrow Page: 59-60 valley called Sha‟ub Abi Talib, as it was the property of Banu Hashim. This valley was in the suburbs of Mecca. It was surrounded by granite rocks and boulders giving it a fort like look. It had only one exit, which was the single gateway to the city of Mecca. According to the plan, the whole tribe of Banu Hashim shifted there with their belongings. This incident took place in 7th year of the Revelation.

The Quraiysh chiefs formed an alliance against Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib. They all signed an agreement and pasted a copy of it on the wall of Ka’ba, this agreement stated:

1. There will be complete boycott of Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib. All social relations such as marriage and economic relations of business and trade are hereby severed. 2. Nobody will retain any relation and contact with them. 3. All exchange of goods is forbidden with them. 208

4. No one will communicate with them or take provision i.e, food and water to them. 5. This agreement will remain in vogue until they handover Mohammad to us for execution.

When Abu Talib heard about this alliance and agreement, he uttered these poetic lines:

 “O my companions! Give my message to Lawie and his family specially Lawie‟s son Ka‟ab.  The conflict between yours and our clans and the agreement you have pasted on Ka’ba will prove as fatal and unfortunate to you as the camel proved for the people of Thamud.  Don‟t you know a break from family relations is a sin. It is a fatal and unwise deed.  May your wisdom not vanish as regards MohammadS. I warn you not to take side of the erring.  I warn you not to initiate a battle, which will continue indefinitely. It will be as bitter and devastating as the end of battle is.  I take an oath in the Lord of Ka’ba’s name, that we will not desert MohammadS despite all difficulties and hardship we will have to face”.

As predicted by Abu TalibR the first misfortune was tasted by the person who wrote down that agreement. His hand was crippled.

The effects of this boycott on Banu Hashim were ravaging and were cause of much torment, miseries and hardships, specially on elders, old women and children. It was not only a boycott but complete siege. The ultimate result of this three years siege was total economical disaster. The wealthy Banu Hashim clan became poor as their trade and business collapsed. Abu TalibR‟s own brother Abu Lahb was the most cruel one, for he would intercept all those outside traders who still came to trade with Banu Hashim; and would buy all their goods at exorbitant price, himself.

Apart from other needs the most urgent was of providing food and water. As their stock decreased and hunger struck, the kids wailed and cried, making life miserable for the elders. A time arrived when they started boiling leaves, barks of the trees and dried pieces of leather to survive. Despite all these sufferings, none amongst them thought of deserting MohammadS. Abu TalibR was proud of his clan and declared that Banu Hashim maintained the honor of Banu Ka’ab, and acted like a fortress for MohammadS. Their first was as dignified as their last.

The Life of At that time in Arabia and Mecca there were many tribes of unbelievers who S Mohammad were allied to Banu Hashim. Many Muslims of other tribes also lived in Mecca Pages: 60-61 yet they did not dare to defy the Quraiysh boycott. Hence none came to the help

of Banu Hashim. There was only one exception a non-Muslim Hisham Bin Umro Bin Rabbiya Bin Harith, he had the courage to frequently supply Banu Hashim with provision thus lessening their ordeal. Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Hisham devised a method to provide Banu Hashim. He would load his camels Page: 141 with provisions and secretly drive them to the mouth of the valley, Banu Hashim unloaded the camels and then drove them back. This helped them to survive.

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Spirit of Islam In the 10th year of the Revelation, 619 AD, Hisham Bin Umro tried to get the Pages: 121-122 boycott removed. Four persons of the Quraiysh also sided with him. They met

Verses of Abu Talib secretly on the mount of Hajun, and agreed to meet Quraiysh chiefs and try to Summary convince them for lifting the siege.

At the same time in the valley, prophet MohammadS informed his uncle: “O uncle! God had sent white ants to destroy the agreement. It has all been eaten up by ants and now only a piece of it is intact on which the name of Allah is written”.

Abu TalibR asked his nephew: “Did your Lord inform you”? The prophet replied: “Yes”. Abu TalibR was relieved. He said: “Now nobody can harm you”.

Saying this Abu TalibR came out of the valley and went to Ka’ba. He called out each Quraiysh chief by name. When they had all gathered, he announced;

“O people of Quraiysh! My nephew has informed me that your agreement has been eaten up by white ants; only that part remains which has the name of Allah on it. So now you should remove it from the wall of Ka’ba and read it. If what I say proves to be true then terminate this agreement of boycott. If not then I will handover MohammadS to you”.

Hearing this the chiefs who had prepared the agreement entered the Ka’ba and opened the agreement in the presence of Abu Talib. They all saw that the prophet was right, yet they refused to end the boycott.

Precisely at the same moment, Hisham Bin Umro along with his four companions arrived. All five compelled and forced the Quraiysh to tear up the agreement, but Abu Jahl resisted. In the end however he too had to give in and the agreement was annulled.

Thereafter these five went to the valley and escorted Banu Hashim to their homes. Abu TalibR then uttered these poetic lines:

 This agreement was the result of false accusations and enchantment of the infidels. But magic does not always succeed.  The whole document was an evil sin, which would have resulted in cutting off heads and arms.  May God Bless the group of Hisham who made such a decision on Mount Hajun which guided them towards the righteous path.  To annul this agreement these courageous brave individuals cooperated with each other. They are the ones who walk with dignity wearing long amours.  Whatever the infidels did was proved wrong and who ever conceives anything against Haq (the Just and Right) is a liar. Banu Hashim after braving the hardships of the Boycott returned home successfully. After this incidence, many converted to Islam.

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Al-Yakuby-2 The three years the Muslims led a besieged life in the valley, Islam did not Page: 25 progress in Mecca. Even during Hajj the prophet could not preach to the Spirit of Islam pilgrims, as he usually used to do. Page: 122

Year of Grief (The death of Abu TalibR and KhadijaR):

The hardships, which were faced by Banu Hashim during the three years of siege in the valley had their toll on the health of many.

The severe weather, hunger and thirst were unbearable on one hand and the danger of enemies surrounding them existed on the other. This ordeal had it‟s effect on Abu Talib who became sick and died one year after the end of the siege. As his moments of death neared he summoned his close relatives and gave his will in the following poetic form.

Allama Ibne Shahr  To look after Bani-al-Khair (the Prophet) after my death, I give the Ashob-ma-Zindran responsibility to four persons of my clan.

R R Mushabihat-e-Al-  To Abbas , the elder of the family, and to Ali my son. Quran-2. Page: 65  To HamzaR the lion, and my son JafarR.

 My will is to all the four to defend and protect the prophet from his enemies. Ref: Al-Ghadyr-7  I make my will to the whole clan of Banu Hashim to be prepared to fight the Pages: 342 to 400 S Quraiysh and to become a shield to prophet Mohammad .  May my father and mother love you for aiding MohammadS and shielding him (from his enemies)  (For the defence of MohammadS) you should have sharpened swords which shine like flames of fire in the night”.

Abu TalibR died in sickness at the age of 86. His death stuck a blow to the prophet as now he had lost his guardian who acted like a shield between him and his enemies. Abu Talib said in one of his verses about himself:

Diwan-e- S Abu Talib-3 “He who roared like a lion in front of Mohammad ‟s enemies openly". Page: 14

When Abu TalibR died then all the powerful enemies of the prophet joined forces, and there was not a single tribe who could be categorized as a supporter of Prophet MohammadS.

Spirit of Islam Few days after Abu TalibR, KhadijaR too died at the age of 65. By her death, Syed Ameer Ali many Muslim slaves and maids lost their patron. The prophet too lost his life Page: 122 partner who had stood by him in thick and thin with total loyalty and devotion for a period of 25 years. She had been a source of love and hope and had

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assisted him whole heartedly during this difficult times. She too braved all hardships and difficulties with him with full conviction.

The prophet did not marry another woman during the life of KhadijaR, is enough to show her worth importance and character. After her death too he always remembered her with love and praise. He would often say that the most exalted women in this world and hereafter are:

1. KhadijaR, Daughter of KhawlydR. 2. FatimaR. Daughter of MohammadS. 3. Aasia. (wife of the Pharaoh), Daughter of Mazahim. 4. Marium. (mother of Christ), Daughter of ImranA.

In 619 AD the 9th year of Revelation is known in Islamic history as “The year of Grief” for in this year the prophet lost his loving and caring benefactors, his wife KhadijaR and his guardian uncle Abu TalibR. The death of the two powerful protectors of the prophet, made his enemies bold and encouraged them to increase their conspiracies.

These changed circumstances brought much misery to the prophet. It became utterly difficult for him to move about in the streets of Mecca . During this very period some vagabonds threw dust on prophet‟s head. When he reached home, his daughter FatimaA washed his hair and wept at this dirty act of the Quraiysh. The prophet too was dejected by this act of his enemies, he said:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 “Nobody dared to mistreat me during the life of my uncle Abu Talib”. Page: 143 Then he consoled his weeping daughter: “O my dear daughter! Do not cry, God will save \your father from these cruel people”.

City of Taif and Preaching of Islam:

Spirit of Islam Taif which is situated in the south eastern part of Hijaz, was the second largest Pages: 64, 125, 194 city after Mecca. It had fort like localities in which resided the two main tribes

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Banu Hawazan and Banu saqif. These people worshipped goddess Laat, its idol Pages: 142-143 was installed in the centre of the city. The city was governed by the family of

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 Umair, and three brothers of this family, Abd, Masud and Habib were the Pages: 596-597 administrators of the city.

Disgusted by the rebuke of his fellow tribesmen, the prophet on the command of Allah decided to preach outside Mecca; searching for new arenas for his teachings he decided to visit Taif. Taking his slave Zayed Bin Harith he travelled on foot a distance of 70 miles to reach Taif.

There is difference of opinion how long did he stay in Taif. It was from 10 to 30 days. He stayed in the house of Roza-tul-Ahbab bin Saqib.

He visited all the elites and chiefs in the town and gave them the dawa (invitation of) Islam. They out rightly rejected the preaching of the prophet and banished him from the town. As he left 212 they sent youth and vagabonds after him to insult him by abusive slogans and by hurling stones at him. The prophet was injured and blood streaked down his body and filled his shoes. Tired and weary he sat down under the shadow of a garden wall. Here he lifted his hands and prayed:

The Prayer of the Prophet:

“O God! I complain only to you about my helplessness, failure and insult I have suffered at the hands of these people. O Merciful and Benevolent! You are the Master and You look after all weak and feeble people. You are my Lord also, I have been in the hands of these strangers who misbehaved and are arrogant, and are enemies who are liable to overpower me. If you are not angry with me then I am not afraid of any affliction which may befall me, I am contented and satisfied. O my lord! Protect me from my enemies. I want always to be in the circle of Your Divine Light, which lightens and encompasses the whole Universe. O Allah! Save me from Your Wrath, I resign to your Will. You can ease my suffering according to Your Will. O my Lord! No human possesses the strength and authority to quell my distress”.

With this prayer he gained strength and his distressed soul was consoled, though he was heart- broken and sad. However having full conviction and confidence he rose and returned to his city.

On his way to Mecca he stayed for a few days at Batan-e-Nakhla, which is at one night travelling distance from Mecca.

Acceptance of Islam by the Jinns:

One night when the prophet was reciting some verses of the Quran, a strange thing happened. A party of Jinns, who were followers of prophet MosesA, heard Quran. They were righteous Jinns who believe in God and His prophets:

Al-Quran Behold (O Mohammad), We turned a party of Jinns towards you to listen to Surah Ahqaf-46 Quran and when they came within hearing they said: “Listen in silence”. When Verses: 29 to 31 it was over they returned to their people, warning them: “O our people”, they said: “We have listened to a book sent down after Moses, confirming what was before it and guiding to the truth and to the straight path. O our people, respond to the summoner, to Allah, and believe in Him. He will forgive you your sins and deliver you from a painful chastisement”.

Quran also mentions about another party of Jinns who were unbelievers and did not believe in God:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Scholars narrate, when prophet MohammadS was going to Akkaz from Mecca, Pages: 107 to 109 party of Jinns heard him reciting Quran. After hearing Quran the Jinns gave up

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Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 their previous ways of life and converted to Islam. This party of Jinns, as is Pages: 618-819 evident from Quranic verses, got alarmed when they witnessed extraordinary security arrangements in the heavens. They were anxious to find out the cause when they came across on prophet MohammadS reciting the Quran. Quran describes this incident:

Al-Quran  (O Mohammad say), “I have been informed that a number of Jinns had Surah Jinn-72 listened, then said: “We have heard the wondrous Quran which guides to Verses: 1 to 10 the right path and we have come to believe in it and will not associate any one with our Lord.

 Exalted is the glory of our Lord. He has neither wife nor son. Certainly the

foolish among us say preposterous things above God. We had infact

thought that humans and Jinns would never speak a lie about God. But some humans used to seek refuge with some Jinns and this increased their waywardness. So they began to think (even as many of) your humans do that God would not resurrect anyone.  We sought to pry into the secrets of heavens but found it full of fierce guards and shooting flames. We sat in secret places to listen, but anyone who tried to listen found a shooting star in wait for him.  We do not know if this means ill for the dwellers of earth, or their Lord wished guidance for them (it may either be a chastisement descending, or the coming of a new prophet)”.

Both Surah Ahqaf and Surah Jinn clearly say that the Jinns did not appear before the prophet, nor did the prophet sense their presence. All narrators however unanimously relate that afterwards the prophet was revealed about their arrival. It was to console him for what happened at Taif. For the consolation of the prophet he was given the tiding that it was unfortunate of the people of Taif to have rejected the Truth and Islam, whereas even other creatures like Jinns accepted Islam whole heartedly.

Authentic narrators tell us that groups of Jinns visited the prophet often after this event and accepted Islam. They came before the prophet‟s migration to Medina and continued coming after his migration too.

Return of the Prophet to Mecca:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 On his return journey to Mecca from Taif, the prophet stayed for few days at Page:143 Nakhla, from where he went straight to the cave of Hira. He could not enter Mecca now unless some Meccan chief took him in his protection and shelter.

Hence he sent a message to Mutam Bin Adiy asking him if he could take him under his protection then he would come to Mecca. According to Arab traditions refuge could not be denied even to an enemy, so Mutam accepted the

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request of the prophet. Zayed Bin Harith (prophet‟s slave) who was the messenger of the prophet brought back the message of Mutam. The prophet proceeded to Mecca the same day in the company of Mutam and his sons who

were fully armed. They arrived in Ka’ba with the prophet and announced that S Mohammad was now in their protection. Sahih Bukhari The prophet prayed at Ka’ba, and then returned to his house, silent, disturbed Chapter: and lost in thoughts. After KhadijaR he had no one to turn to for consolation. Migration. His daughter FatimaA was still a kid, in her childish way she tried to comfort and console her father. AliA never left the prophet alone and followed him everywhere. Zayed bin HarithR was always ready in his service. But when he left the confines of his house, he found himself surrounded by enemies. Many Muslims had already migrated to Abyssinia, those who were left behind were in the protection of various powerful chiefs. His only friend Abu BakrR was in Mecca but he too was in refuge of Ibn-Daghna. He left his home seldom, as he had constructed a small mosque in his home for prayer, where he recited the holy Quran loudly and prayed.

To top it all his bitter enemies were his neighbors such as Abu Lahb, Abu Jahl, Aswad Bin Abd Yaghoos, Umiyya, Walyd Bin Mughyra, Abu Sufyan, A‟as Bin Wayl, Uqba-bin-Abi-Moeet, Hakm- bin-Abul-Aa‟s and Zubair bin Abi Umaiyya. All were evil-minded holding guile against the prophet. As soon as the prophet emerged from his home, any one of these people followed him. Still he did not stop preaching inspite of no apparent chances of success.

The Revelation of Surah Kausar:

Despite this discouraging situation the prophet daily visited The House of God (Ka’ba) with the conviction that one day the Faith of Allah will dominate. Whenever he got a chance he addressed his infidel people and asked them to recite the Kalma: “There is no god except Allah” as this would bring prosperity to them.

Narrators state one day the prophet was talking to A‟as Bin Wayl in the vicinity of Ka’ba. A group of Quraiysh chieftains was sitting at a distance, they were disturbed and worried about this conversation between them, hence when A‟as Bin Wayl came towards them they inquired impatiently: “What were you listening to?”

Arrogantly with great pride and pointing towards the prophet he said: “I was listening to that Abtar (son-less person whose lineage is cut-off). “Abtar” is a downgraded word of Arabic which is used to taunt, humiliate and insult a person.

These enemies of the prophet had large families and were proud of their sons. Hence they all mocked and taunted the prophet: “You will never succeed for who is going to carry on your mission after your death. When you will die your name too will die with you, as your lineage will end with your death”. 215

They got a chance of uttering these words because two sons of prophet MohammadS, Qasim and Tahir (Abdullah) died in infancy and no other child was born to KhadijaR after FatimaR.

During the life time of KhadijaR and Abu TalibR the people of Mecca, called him “Abtar” secretly. But after the death of these two they openly mocked the prophet with this word.

The prophet bore this humiliation and mockery with great patience, which is the hallmark of prophets, whose standards of virtuous nobility and dignity are much elevated.

The Lord heard and stood witness to this degrading attitude of the infidels who had no idea that their insulting attitude towards the prophet of Allah, would prove fatal for them.

On this occasion God revealed a complete Surah, an excellent example of high eloquence combined with extreme brevity (Surah Kausar-108, containing only 3 verses).

Al-Quran  We have surely given you Kausar (pre-eminence in descendants and Surah Kausar-108 following). Complete Surah  So serve your Lord with full dedication and sacrifice.  It is only your enemy who will be Abtar.

The eloquence of this Surah can be judged by the fact that each word of it invokes multidirectional meanings and therefore the guidance provided by the Surah is in many directions and many colors.

But as God willed the basic intent of the Surah was to respond to the infidels who tauntedly called prophet MohammadS as Abtar. In this sense the Surah conveys three important meanings, out of which two are perdictions and the third is guidance for achieving highest standards of morality and spirituality.

Prediction 1: This prediction about the grant of Kausar to MohammadS, as a result of which his progeny (through his daughter Fatima) will be grand not only in numbers but also grand in achieving elevated position on morality and spirituality. Living proof of fulfillment of this prediction lies in the existence of innumerable men and women today who take pride in calling themselves Syed i.e, linking their lineage to prophet MohammadS through his daughter Fatima.

Not only this, but if we look at the prominent personalities of Islam who contributed to the propagation of knowledge, morality and spiritual elevation, we find an overwhelming majority of them were Syeds, belonging to te progeny of prophet MohammadS.

Prediction 2: This prediction is about enemies of MohammadS who will become Abter. Living of fulfillment of this prediction lies in the fact that those who were proud of their large families and numerous sons, and humiliated the prophet as being issueless, today their descendents are unknown in history. And if they did have descendents they never mentioned their fore-fathers, as they are ashamed of being related to persons like Abu Jahl, Abu Lahb, A‟as Bin Wayl etc.

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Whereas all Muslims send their salutations to the prophet and his Ahl-ul-bait (the elevated ones in his family) in their prayers, five times every day. Imagine how many billions of salutations each day keep their memory alive. This was the answer of Almighty Lord to the taunt of Abter by the unbelievers.

Guidance for achieving high morality:

The Surah provides two guidelines: “Serve God dedicatedly and offer sacrifices”. History proved the fact that prophet MohammadS and his Ahlal- bayt followed these guidelines with total dedication throughout their lives. Nobody else could serve God as dedicatedly as they did and nobody else could sacrifice in the way of God as they did. The entire life of prophet MohammadS was full of hardships and sacrifices and his Ahl-ul-bait continued the same tradition, topped by the sacrifice of his grandson Hussain-ibn-Ali in the battle of Karbala.

Ba’it Uqba Oulaa: (Oath of allegiance at Uqba):

The conditions in Mecca had simply become impossible for prophet MohammadS to continue. God Almighty had revealed these verses about the infidels and unbelievers of Mecca:

Al-Quran As for those who deny it is all the same if you warn them or not, they will not Surah Al-Baqarah-2 believe. God has sealed their hearts and ears and veiled their eyes. For them is Verses: 6-7 great deprivation.

Spirit of Islam Under these circumstances the prophet diverted his attention towards those who Syed Ameer Ali visited Mecca for trade or pilgrimage. One day the prophet met a group of six Page: 125 strangers belonging to Yathrib (Medina) and asked them to stop and to listen to

what he had to say. They heard attentively, were convinced and accepted the teachings of the prophet with full conviction. This incident took place in the 10th year of the Revelation i.e, 620 AD. Ibne Hisham Tibry After returning to their city they spread the news that amongst the Arabs a prophet is born, who summons people towards Allah, and says that he will end the centuries old feuds amongst the tribes.

Next year these Muslims brought another six of their friends to Mecca. They pledged their allegiance to the prophet at a place called “Uqba”. They pledged that they will:

 Refrain from theft.  Refrain from adultery.  Refrain from killing their children (especially daughters).  Avoid mutual accusations, blames and charges against each other.

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 Will, obey the prophet in all permitted acts and deeds.  Will remain faithful to the prophet at all times, joy or sorrow.

These six new arrivals belonged to the tribes of Ous and Khizrij.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After this pledge when they returned, prophet sent one of his companions Page: 149 (Hashim bin Abd Munnaf‟s grandson Musai‟b bin Umair) to teach them the Islamic ways of living. Musai‟b carried out his duties in Medina commendably.

Mairaj-un-Nabi. (Ascension of the prophet to heavens):

Al-Quran Glory be to Him who carried His servant (Mohammad) by night from (Masjid- Surah Bani Israel-17 al-Haraam) the holy mosque (at Mecca), to the (Masjid-al-Aqsa) farthest Verse: 1 mosque, whose environment We have blessed, so that We may show him our Signs. Verily He is all-hearing, all-seeing.

This famous verse is about Mairaj i.e, Ascension of prophet MohammadS from Masjid-al- Haraam (Mecca) to Masjid-al-Aqsa (farthest place). As the Mosque at Bait-al-Maqdas i.e, (Jerusalem) was named Masjid-e-Aqsa, therefore many narrators Have considered the Masjid-al- Aqsa of Quranic verse as the mosque at Jerusalem. But this opinion of narrators is not supported by history. To have a clear perception of Mairaj, we will take a quick look at history starting from the stage when Ka’ba was being re-constructed during the times of prophet MohammadS.

When the Ka’ba was re-constructed prior to the prophet-hood of MohammadS, due to lack of funds, some space was left open around the Ka’ba. A smaller space also remained open at the spots which are now Hujr and Hatim. It was customary of the Quraiysh youth and other rich persons to often sleep in this courtyard. The prophet too often slept there at night.

The Life of After the first allegiance (Bait Uqba the first) the prophet was sleeping here S Mohammad Page: between the nights of 26th and 27th Rajab, when Allah took him to Masjid-al- 65 Aqsa.

First question arises, did prophet stop between the two mosques? It may be noted here that there is no reference in this verse that the prophet stopped between two mosques. The second question which arises is what is meant by Masjid-al-Aqsa?

Fasu-ul-Khitab-4 The literal meaning of Aqsa is “Far Away” “Most Extreme”. Hence according Page: 456 to conventional terminology and description, the term “Aqsa” means the extremely exalted Point in the Heavens. Sheikh Tusy states that: “This was a journey towards the exalted point of heavens. Hence the word “Ascension” is used”. 218

However the majority of commentators write that this journey started from Masjid-al-Haraam (Ka’ba) to Masjid-al-Aqsa, where the prophet stopped and then travelled towards the heavens. Though the verse clearly says: “He travelled to the Masjid-al-Aqsa from Masjid-al-Haraam”.

To explain their point of view the commentators take help from a Hadith, but historical facts proved that there is no truth in the opinion of commentators.

Tarikh-e-Anbiya-1 As far as Bait-ul-Maqdas also known as Ailya or Jerusalem is concerned Pages: 350 to 444 (where this Masjid-ul-Aqsa is believed to be at the time the prophet's ascension occurred), the reality is that at that time the whole area was in ruins, and no trace of Masjid-al-Aqsa existed there. Actually this mosque was constructed more than 50 years after the death of the prophet.

A brief review of history indicates that around 1000 BC prophet DawoodA (David) established a new city in Palestine and named it Jerusalem i.e, "City of Peace". After him his son SolomonA got a worship place constructed here for worship of Allah. It included a Mosque and huge verandas known as “Hykl”. This complete building was called “The Temple of God” or “Sacred House of Worship” known as “Bait-al-Maqdas”.

When this mosque was completed Allah made it the august spot for the monotheists. His Divine Command was that those who believed in one and only one God, should pray facing it, no matter where they were. This Bait-ul-Maqdas is regarded as the First Qibla, even by Muslims.

However after prophet SolomonA within a period of 150 years, the Jews due to their practices turned this magnificent building into “Temple of Ba'al” and many idols adorned the premises. Idols and cows were worshipped here now by Bani Israel. Allah sent many prophets one after the other, for their guidance. At last the Jew rulers realized their mistakes and wrong actions and then got the “Temple of God” cleansed of all idols. But the disobedience and departure from monotheism by Bani Israil continued off and on, and the Temple continued to become a center of idol worship again and again. This gave rise to riots, anarchy and chaos. Then Divine Chastisement descended on them in 586 BC. The Babylonian Emperor Nebuchadnezzar attacked Jerusalem and turned the whole city into ruins. The worship place was also destroyed and thousands of Jews were either killed or taken as prisoners to Babylon.

Those few who escaped repented and begged penitence from their Lord. The Lord forgave them as they pledged to follow their prophets. They were given another chance.

In 539 BC the Persian Emperor Cyrus conquered Babylon and freed the Jews. they were allowed to return to their native land and to re-build the city and the worship place Bait-al-Maqdas which was restored to its previous splendor. Jerusalem the deserted city was also rehabilitated, yet their temperament and mentality did not change. They again spread anarchy and killed many prophets who came to guide them. Jesus ChristA was then sent to them. They mocked, humiliated and

219 insulted him as they had done with the previous prophets. They hanged Jesus ChristA on Cross and tortured his followers. This again invited Divine Wrath. They were over-powered and destroyed by Romans.

In 70 AD the Roman General Titus devastated the Jews and destroying the city demolished all buildings. Thus Jesus ChristA's prophecy came true. He had said: “Soon Jerusalem would not see a single wall where bricks are placed over each other”. The Bait-al-Maqdas too was turned into ruins.

Another 50 years passed and Roman Emperor Caesar Hadrian built a new city over the ruins in 135AD and named it Aelia. As the Jews had rebelled against the Romans, hence they were not permitted to enter the city, their famous worship place Bait-al-Maqdas remained in ruins.

A Short History of In 325 AD the Roman Caesar Constantine ascended the throne. After Islam. Page: 251 sometime he embraced Christianity, thus the whole region came under the A control of the Christians. Because Jesus Christ had preached in Jerusalem therefore it became the Sacred city of the Christians but Bait-al-Maqdas could

not be constructed. In 635 AD Muslims conquered Jerusalem, and then Caliph Umer FarooqR visited the city of Aelia. The Arch Bishop of the High Church handed over the key of the city to the Caliph, who entered as a victor. He

stayed there a few days, during which an agreement was written down between him and the citizens of Aelia. This agreement started in the following manner: “This covenant is between the servant of Allah the Muslim Caliph Umer Farooq and the citizens of Aelia”.

Caliph Umer FarooqR did not order construction of any kind of building there. After Khilafat-e-Rashida (the rule of the first four Caliphs) Banu Umaiyya

became the rulers, and within 30 years the great Islamic empire broke down in three independent states: Iran, Syria and Palestine were ruled by Banu Umaiyya who called themselves Caliphs. Arabia and Iraq were ruled by Abdullah Ibne Zubayr. Southern Yemen was under the control of Khawarij.

The fifth Ummayed Caliph was Abdul Mulk Bin Marwan, who ruled over a turbulent empire. He faced internal and external enemies, yet he took interest in rebuilding the House of Worship in Jerusalem. With his orders two buildings, Gumbad-e-Sakhra (Dome of the Rock) and Masjid-e- Aqsa facing each other were built on the ruins of Solomon's Temple. Both these buildings were constructed as alternate of the two Muslim sacred buildings, Ka’ba and Masjid-e-Nabvi. The reason was that both the mentioned holy buildings were at that time located in the land ruled by his enemy Abdullah ibne Zubayr. Abdul Malik under his arrogance and pride wished that Muslims should go for pilgrimage to the Dome of Rock and should offer prayers in Masjid-e-Aqsa, instead of going to Mecca and Medina.

Both these buildings were completed in 691AD i.e, 72 Hijri, but the wish of Umayyad ruler was not fulfilled. As his commander Hijaj Bin Yousuf besieged the capital of Abdullah-ibne-Zubayr in 692 AD. Holy Ka’ba was pelted with stones and the city was conquered. In the fight Abdullah-ibne- Zubayr was killed, thus Abdul Malik now became the Caliph of Arabia and Iraq also. His absolute

220 rule expanded over Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Syria and Palestine, and thus both the holy cities Mecca and Medina came under his control.

One point must be clarified here that many European historians call the Dome of Rock as the Mosque of UmerR, which is historically incorrect. The Dome of Rock was constructed about 50 years after the death of UmerR. The construction of the two mosques in Jerusalem was done during the reign of Umayya ruler Abdul Malik, but unfortunately interpreters connected the Mairaj (Ascension) of the prophet and the Quranic verse with the Jerusalem mosque although it was constructed 60 years after the prophet's death. This interpretation has created much concern and anxiety amongst the students of history i.e, how could the prophet stop at a mosque which did not exist at that time. The fact is Abdul Malik named this mosque by borrowing the word of “Aqsa” from the Quranic verse of Surah Bani Israil mentioned above.

Had prophet's wife KhadijaR been alive, she would certainly have asked prophet (looking at his shining face) after the Mairaj: "O prophet of Allah! What did the Lord bless you with?"

KhadijaR was not there, but his daughter FatimaA who was only eight years old must have understood that something extra-ordinary had happened. She must have been extremely happy when the prophet had related the events of Mairaj to her. As a loving daughter she had always wished respect and honor for her father.

Then prophet related the incidence to AliA. The speaker was prophet who narrated the incidence in his usual eloquent fluence, while the listener was AliA who was raised by prophet himself and was close to his heart. Prophet's eloquence made such impressions on AliA that afterwards wherever the prophet spoke about Mairaj, AliA would impatiently say: "O prophet of Allah! Will you like to relate the event of Mairaj or allow me to do so"?

The houses of Banu Umayya and Banu Hashim were adjacent to each other and were built around Ka’ba. The next morning prophet openly talked about the Mairaj. When his clan heard this they felt proud and elated. Muslims did not have any inkling of doubt, they believed their prophet. But the Quraiysh tribes, their Chieftains, the infidels and non-believers refuted and termed it lies of MohammadS. They loudly proclaimed that all this was a lie. They talked to each other: “Don't listen to him. How is it possible that a human travels to heavens, visits it and returns all done in one night”?

There was a great uproar and commotion. However the situation would have been quite different if the prophet would have announced: “I had a dream in which I travelled to the heavens”.

This would have fascinated and intrigued them, and they would have taken keen interest in hearing the dream. As this would not have been something unusual and farfetched.

It is stated that the house of Abu BakrR was at a distance from the Prophet's house. He had made a small mosque adjacent to his house, where he used to pray and recite Quran.

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When Abu Jahl heard about the Mairaj of prophet, he rushed to Abu BakrR's house and in a taunting manner said: “O Abu-al-Qahafa! Have you heard that your prophet travelled from Masjid-al-Haraam to Masjid-al-Aqsa and after visiting the heavens returned in one night”?

Abu BakrR paying no attention to his tone inquired: “Have you heard this from the prophet himself”?

“Yes"..said Abu Jahl.

Hearing this Abu BakrR full of confidence immediately replied: "My prophet is truthful".

Because of this belief and trust he showed, history gave him the title of Siddiq i.e, one who stands witness and attests. Hearing his reply, Abu Jahl left his home in fury.

Surah Najam and Mairaj-un-Nabi:

This incident of prophet's ascension to heavens gave the Quraiysh a chance to mock and taunt the prophet whenever they saw him. They would laugh, jeer and clap their hands, follow him and shout: "O Liar! Where did you go? How did you travel and what did you see there"?

As the prophet would remain silent they would say addressing each other: "O! Leave him, he is a strayed fellow, he is a deceived person".

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 During those days, while the prophet was in Masjid-al-Haraam and a crowd of Pages: 188 to 224 infidels and non-believers was also present there, which pestered him with questions. At last the prophet rose to answer them, the same moment Angel Gabriel arrived and revealed Surah Najam to the prophet. The prophet recited

this Divine Message. During the recital complete silence fell upon the audience. Whatever the prophet said was not his saying but he was repeating the Divine words. It was in Arabic their own language, and they heard it like in

a trance, overwhelmed by it's eloquence and fluent expression. It touched their souls they were dumbfounded and stunned, Prophet was reciting:  By the star when it goes down. Your companion does not err, nor does he go 101Al-Quran Surah Najam-53 astray, nor does he speak out of (his own) desire. It is but a revelation Verses: 1-18 revealed, taught to him by the Supreme in Power.  (He is) endued with wisdom, therefore he took an over viewing position while he was in the highest horizon.  Then he drew near and nearer. (Thus he) was at a distance of two bows or nearer still. Then He revealed to His servant what He revealed. His heart did not belie what he saw. Will you then dispute with him what he saw?  He saw him indeed in the course of another descent at Sidratil Muntaha (the Lot tree of the utmost boundary), close to which is Jannat-al-Mawa (garden 222

of abode), when the Sidra (Lot tree) was covered over with what it was covered over.  Neither did his eyes dazzle nor did they exceed the bound. Indeed he saw the greatest signs of his Lord.

While the prophet was reciting these verses there was pin drop silence in the Ka’ba, only his voice could be heard all around. When he finished describing Mairaj, he did not stop but continued to utter the truth about the idols they worshipped:

Al-Quran  Have you seen Laat and Uzza and Manaat, the other third (of the idols)? Are Surah Najam-53 there males for you and females for Him? This indeed is an unjust Verses: 19 to 55 apportioning.  They are nothing but (mere) names which you and your fathers have devised. Allah did not send down for them any authority. They follow nothing but conjecture and what their own selves desire, even though guidance has come to them from their Lord.  What? Shall people have whatsoever they wish for? Allah is the Last and the First (i.e, sovereignty from beginning to end belongs to Allah).  How many angels are there in the heavens whose intercession shall not avail at all save after Allah gives leave to whomsoever He wills and chooses. Verily those who do not believe in the Hereafter give the angels names of females. Yet they do not have any knowledge of it, and they follow nothing but conjecture, and verily conjecture avails nothing against truth.  Therefore turn away from him who turns away from Our reminder and desires nothing but the life of this world.  That is the farthest limit of their knowledge. Verily your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path and He knows best who has been rightly guided.  Allah's is whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth, so that He may requite those who do evil according to their deeds, and He may recompense those who do good with what is best.  As to those who avoid great sins and shameful deeds, save the accidently committed, your Lord is vast in forgiveness. He is best aware of you (from the time) when He produced you from the earth and when you were embryos in the womb of your mothers. So do not assert purity for yourselves. He knows best him, who safeguards himself against evil with full awareness of His laws.  Have you seen him who has turned his back, who gives but little and withholds (his hands)? Has he knowledge of the unseen so that he perceives (everything)? Has he not been told of what is in the Books of Moses, and of Abraham who fulfilled His mission? That no bearer of a burden shall bear the burden of another, that for people there is nothing except what they

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strive for, and that his striving shall soon be seen.  Then they shall be recompensed therefore with the fullest recompense, and that to your Lord is the final goal, and that verily He is who causes (people) to laugh and causes (people) to weep, and that He it is who creates pairs male and female from a drop of semen when emitted, that (incumbent) on Him is another (second) creation (raising of the dead), that He it is who gives riches and contentment, that He it is who is the Lords of Sirius (the great star), that He it is who destroyed the ‘Aad of old, and Thamud. He did not spare (them), like the people of Noah before them who were verily the most unjust and the most transgressive. And He overthrew the subverted cities so that they were covered by what they were covered over.  About which of the bounties of your Lord will you then dispute?

At this stage when the entire audience was overwhelmed with awe, the Divine revelation turned towards the concluding phase. Prophet MohammadR continued:

Al-Quran  This is a warner of the warners of old. The approaching (hour of reckoning) Surah Najam-53 is drawing nearer. None other than Allah is there to lay it bare. Verses: 56 to 62  Do you then wonder at this news, and laugh and not weep, and indulge in vain pleasantries?  Therefore, prostrate yourselves before Allah and worship Him.

After the recitation of the last verse the prophet prostrated. The entire audience fell down on ground, in prostration as if in a trance. After a while when they regained their own selves, the unbelievers and infidels felt ashamed and sheepishly talked among themselves as to why they acted in such a manner. But within their hearts they were still the same rebellious unbelievers Quran says:

Al-Quran (God knows of His prophet's) cry: Surah Zukhruf-43 "O my Lord, these people will not believe". Verses: 88

However this incident stopped their wagging tongues and none dared to question the prophet now, why he travelled to heavens or what he saw there.

Why Mairaj (Ascension) was needed:

As far as the aim of Mairaj is concerned it is very clearly mentioned in the first verse of Surah Bani Israel (17:1). He was summoned by his Lord, as a human and His servant. He visited the highest place of Heaven, in his full consciousness and physical form.

The Almighty Lord desired to show the prophet (who was the pride of human creation) the Signs of His Divine powers and to directly reveal to the prophet without any intermediary (not even Angel Gabriel). This was Divine Will for the chosen prophet MohammadS who was His last prophet 224 on the planet earth, who was entrusted with His last Book (Quran) and who was supposed to propagate the message among people lasting until the end of time.

At the highest place of Heaven, God Almighty revealed to prophet MohammadS directly "What He revealed". Scholars comment that this revelation contained highly secretive spiritual anecdotes which are beyond comprehension of normal human beings. A part of this revelation can however be seen in Hadith-e-Qudsi. Prophet MohammadS in turn disclosed this knowledge or its parts to those commanded by God, and the recipients absorbed the knowledge according to their own capacities.

Mairaj (Ascension) has been a subject of much discussion among scholars and commentators and a large number of traditions are narrated on this subject. Searching through this sizeable literature, a brief can be summarized as follows:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 It was the midnight of 26th and 27th Rajab, the prophet was in Masjid-al- Page: 586 Haraam, when Allah summoned and he was taken to Masjid-e-Aqsa.

The Life of According to Imam's of Ahl-al-Baiyt, Masjid-e-Aqsa actually means Bait-ul- MohammadS Mamoor which is a Mosque in the extremes of Heavens and is used by angels Page: 65 for pilgrimage. Here was the limit where Angel Gabriel stopped, and the Anwar-ul-Najaf-9 prophet proceeded alone further till he reached the zenith, an apex known as Page: 7 Sidrat-ul-Muntaha which was flooded with Divine Light.

It is said, at Masjid-e-Aqsa Angel Gabriel said to the prophet: “This is the limit, I cannot proceed further”.

The prophet proceeded further till he was at a distance of two bows or nearer from the Almighty Lord. Whatever he saw was not a mirage but a genuine reality which the prophet witnessed with full consciousness.

The Quranic verses indicate that as the prophet perceived the Divine Light, his gaze was steady and firm yet he did not try to see beyond, as he was fully aware of his limitations and knew what his duty was towards his Lord and what His Reverence demanded from him. Whatever was revealed was enough, and what was beyond it was not allowed nor did he posses the ability do so, as it was out of bounds, even for him. Here he stopped by Divine Command and Allah spoke to him. There he was shown the greatest Signs of his Lord.

The prophet then returned to the place where Angel Gabriel had left him. There the prophet saw Gabriel the second time, where Sidrat-ul-Muntaha and Jannat-ul-Mawa were in close vicinity. The Sidra was covered with something which was simply indescribable.

When prophet returned he passed through the seven heavens and met other exalted prophets and messengers of Allah. He saw Hell, Paradise and Barzakh (the place where souls are kept between the interval of death and Resurrection). He also saw the angels worshipping and other servants of Allah performing their duties.

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Marriage with SaudaR:

The incident of Mairaj and revelation of Surah Najam were both of such great magnificence that this news spread far and wide. When the Meccan refugees in Abyssinia heard how people had bowed down on hearing the Surah, they thought that all Meccans had embraced Islam. Without further inquiry into the, matter some returned to Mecca, amongst them were UsmanR, his wife RuqiyyaR, Sakran bin UmrooR and his wife SaudaR binte Zam'a. Reaching Mecca SakranR died leaving his widow helpless with a minor son. None of the family members were ready to take her responsibility.

Khula binte Hakeem was a respected lady and was aware of SaudaR's qualities and character. She thought this woman could be an ideal wife of the prophet. She spoke about her to the prophet and on his acceptance, she visited the father of SaudaR, who readily agreed and he himself solemnized the Nikah with a Mehr of 400 Derham. Thus SaudaR became the second wife the prophet after KhadijaR.

She was a faithful and obedient lady. After KhadijaR she gave all the love and care to prophet's daughter FatimaA.

Marriage with AyshaR binte Abu BakrR:

Abu BakrR the father of AyshaR had a dignified status amongst the Quraiysh. However when he embraced Islam he gained much enmity and opposition. Apart from him and his immediate family, none of his relatives accepted Islam, hence his relations were strained with them. His elder daughter AsmaR was married to the prophet's cousin Zubyr bin AwaamR, and both husband and wife were Muslims. His second daughter AyshaR was engaged to Jabeer-ibne-Mut'im's son, but this family was non-Muslim. The problem of Abu BakrR was that he could not marry his Muslim daughter to non- Muslim, but he could not also break the engagement as it was against Arab traditions. The question often raised is what was AyshaR's age then?

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 One narrative is that at the time of her birth, MohammadS's prophet-hood was Pages: 255-256 four years old. This makes her age 7 years in the 12th year of prophet-hood. Second narrative is that she was born eleven years before migration to Medina, Abbas Mehmood th Al-iqaad. Page: 52 hence she was eleven years old on 12 year of prophet-hood.

Abu BakrR's problem was solved by Jabeer the father of her fiancée, who broke the engagement and said:

“If Ayesha will become the member of our family, she will bring her faith of Islam too, which cannot be accepted”.

Then Khula initiated this marriage of AyeshaR with the prophet. Prophet agreed on the condition that only the Nikah (marriage contract) will be solemnized but the marriage will be consummated afterwards. Abu BakrR also agreed and immediately after his marriage with SaudaR the prophet 226 married AyeshaR. Her alimony was fixed at 400 Dirham. She came to the prophet's house in 2nd Hijri at Medina, her age them, according to both narratives was either 11 or 13.

About the age of AyeshaR and her marriage and the love of prophet for her, many narratives touch the limits of disrespect, absurdity and are frivolous. Many are unbelievable and farfetched and should be discouraged. It should be kept in mind that prophet agreed for the marriage to save Abu BakrR the stigma of breakage of engagement.

The Second Pledge of Allegiance (Bai’t-e-Saani):

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 At the end of twelfth year of prophet-hood, those Medinites who had accepted Pages: 150 to 152 Islam the previous year visited the prophet again with 25 of their fellow The Life of citizens. They had journeyed with a caravan where the majority was of non- MohammadS Pages: 71-72 believers who had no inkling of their intentions.

The Medinites gathered at night at a spot called Uqba, and the prophet also came to meet them along with his uncle AbbasR. Though AbbasR had not accepted Islam till then, yet he had showed great interest in his nephew's preaching and its progress.

The Medinites showed their desire of conversion to Islam and invited the prophet to Medina, known as Yathrab, and requested him to migrate from Mecca. The prophet informed them about the hazards and dangers they would have to face due to both of their acts. He recited certain verses of Holy Quran, instructed them to worship only Allah, and told them about blessings of accepting Islam. They listened and requested again: “You can ask us for any kind of promise and covenant but accept our request to live in our city”.

On this AbbasR spoke: “O group of Aous and Khizrij! MohammadS is a dignified personality of his family. We have always defended him and faced his enemies. Now if he does migrate and goes to you, can you protect him even at the cost of your own life? Whether you can do this or not decide now”. In reply BaraR' said: “We are brave fighters”.

He was interrupted by his companion Abu-LaheemR: "O prophet! We live along with the Jews and have connections with them. After our all allegiance and your gaining power and authority, will you return to your native land leaving us"?

The prophet replied: "No, your blood is mine, you are mine and I am yours".

This conversation satisfied the delegation and they pledged to the prophet that: 1. We will worship Allah only. 2. Will obey all Commandments of Islam. 3. Will follow all instructions of the prophet's orders. 4. Will defend and protect the prophet and his whole family as we do our own kith and kin. 227

Pledging thus they gave their hands in the hands of the prophet and took oath.

Then the prophet chose twelve men from amongst them and appointed them his representatives in Medina. These twelve were known and respected Chieftains of Aous and Khizrij tribes. Soon after this group returned to Medina, both the tribes converted to Islam.

The news of the bai’t of Medinites somehow leaked and reached the Meccan Quraiysh. They rushed with fury towards the caravan and asked the travelers to handover those who had converted. But the caravan members were unaware of the whole incident and had no knowledge of who accepted Islam. They expressed their complete ignorance. The Quraiysh therefore had to return unsuccessful". The new Muslims who were later called “Ansaar”, thus escaped the wrath of the Quraiysh.

Split of Moon: (The Last Sign of Indication towards Guidance):

Al-Quran  The hour (of reckoning) has come near and split of moon has occurred. Surah Al-Qamar-54  If they see a sign they turn away and say: “(This is the same) magic Verses: 1 to 8 continuing. They belie and follow their own vain desires, while every affair

has it's appointed time.  Verily, there have come to them tidings deterring them (from evil) and containing consummate wisdom. Yet warnings were of no avail.  So (O Mohammad) withdraw from them. When on the day, caller shall call

them to the hard task. They shall come out from the graves with downcast

eyes like locusts scattered around, hastening forward to the caller. The believers shall say: “This is a hard day”. Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 After the allegiance of Medinites in the 12th year of prophet-hood, the muslins Page: 156 were given permission by Allah to migrate to Medina. So they started moving out of Mecca secretly in small groups. This worried the Quraiysh, as it was a failure of all their oppressive methods to prevent conversion to Islam. So they S decided to give a big challenge to prophet Mohammad . They demanded of the prophet: “If you can divide the moon into two, and we witness this sight ourselves, then we will believe in you (and your preaching) but if you cannot do this then you will have to leave your faith (and preaching) or we will kill you”.

Tafseer-e- This was an extremely strange and tough demand. However through it Allah -Namuma-23 provided a last and ultimate chance to the non-believers. The prophet prayed to Page: 32 his Lord. It was the 14th night of the lunar month, the moon was shining brightly in the clear desert skies. All those who were present there saw the moon suddenly divide into two parts, and each part moved in the opposite direction to the right and left. The distance between the two parts was clear, at

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this juncture addressing one of the Quraiysh chiefs the prophet said: “Look at the miracle of God and submit”. All present saw this and as they gazed at the skies, they also saw both parts moving at each other and forming the full moon once again. Yet their stubbornness, pride and arrogance came in their way of accepting what they saw they declared: “We will not accept what we saw until the caravans of Syria and Yemen return (so that they also confirm that they saw the moon split)”. Then the time came when the caravans returned and gave proof of that strange sight they had seen during their journey. But they still were adamant, they said: “This sight is the Magical power of Mohammad, and such magic has been shown by him many times in the past”.

Thus they devised a way to escape Truth and Reality. In opposing the prophet, refuting his arguments, un-acceptance of his prophet-hood, defiance of his preaching and miracles, lay the centuries old thinking of regarding their heritage and fore-father's faith as the supreme. This had produced a persistent rigid defiance in their thinking and attitude.

However that miracle was the last argument. After it the doors of advice and guidance were closed upon them. The prophet was told:

Al-Quran Surah Al-Qamar-54 So (O Mohammad) withdraw from them. Verse: 6

This saddened the prophet who felt sorry for his people, who instead of benefitting from his blessings, agitated against him and his followers. They constantly persecuted and tortured the believers and mocked them when they tried to warn them of Divine Wrath. They taunted and challenged: “If you can, then bring upon us the chastisement about which you warn us. If you can, make the skies fall upon us, break the sky in pieces, or bring the Angels of Allah before us”.

Their malign nature knew no bounds. One day they tortured the prophet while he was praying in Ka’ba. Abdullah Ibne MasoodR was also sitting in the Ka’ba courtyard on one side whereas the Quriaysh chiefs and wealthy persons were sitting on the other side. The prophet came and started praying in one corner. Abu Jahl asked someone to bring the entrails of the camel and as the prophet prostrated and touched the ground this heavy filthy thing was thrown on his shoulders and back, it was so heavy that the prophet was unable to lift his head. Abdullah Ibne Masood saw all this but dared not help the prophet. Abu Jahl along with his companions was pleased by this sight, and they all laughed. The prophet's daughter FatimaA who was hardly eight years old, came rushing to the spot and fearlessly passed through the mocking crowd. She pulled the heavy object, off and freed the prophet. This act of hers was like a miracle, seeing her age and weight of a camel's entrails. All those who were jeering and shouting fell silent, as FatimaA scolded and rebuked a chief as powerful as Abu Jahl. He was stunned and stood speechlessly before her courageous tirade.

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This was the last chance for them to come to senses, for all those who were present there. The prophet whose worship was disrupted in such a horrible manner cursed them loudly, individually by name and pleaded his Lord to punish them. He cried aloud:

Seerat-un-Nabi-3 "O God! Punish the Quraiysh chiefs, Abu Jahl, Utba, Utba-bin-Abi Muiyt, Page: 160 Shyba, Ummya Bin Khalf, Walyd Bin Uqba and Ubai' Bin Khalf and apprehend them". This curse frightened them. They heard all this, they were temporarily frightened but their hearts did not change.

Since the last 13 years they had been challenging the prophet and provoking him. They had hindered the prophet from praying in Ka’ba and even challenged him by saying:

Al-Quran  If whatever you say is Truth, then the sky should rain down stones on us, or Surah Anfal-8 inflict a grievous punishment upon us. Versrs: 32-33  But God would not choose to punish them while you (O Mohammad) are in their midst, nor afflict them when they are seeking forgiveness.

Allah did not show His Wrath despite all this as the prophet and his followers too were a part of their city and lived among them, moreover the teaching and dawa of the prophet was continuing. They were therefore allowed a period of remission although they had crossed all limits.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The infidel Quraiysh believed that punishment only came in the form of Page: 143 natural disaster like, raining down of stones, earthquake, dust storm etc. but they were to taste another kind of admonishment shortly in the form of humiliating defeat in the battle of Badr. This defeat brought glory and progress for the faith of Islam and the message of defeat and death for them and their ancient rituals.

The day of their death was already ordained. Quran says:

Al-Quran The day We shall seize them with a great seizure ( ), We will Surah Dukhan-44 indeed castigate them. Verse: 16

The day of great seizure ( ), as ordained by the Lord, was the day of battle of Badar (only about 2 years away). On that day, before the battle, prophet had identified the locations where the seven Quraiysh chiefs (cursed by him) will fall and will be seized by Hell. The seven chiefs died exactly at the same spots in the battle. Abdullah Ibne MasoodR who was present in the Ka’ba when the prophet cursed them states they all died on the Day of Badar and became part of Hell.

Abu Jahl was the worst among these seven. He had mocked, insulted and even tortured prophet more than anyone else. Almighty Lord had therefore ordained a more gruesome death for him. Quran had predicted:

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Al-Quran Does he not know that God sees? And yet indeed if he does not desist, We shall Surah Alaq-96 drag him by the forelock, by the lying the sinful forelock. Verses: 14 to 16

Abu Jahl was killed in the battle of Badar and after the battle his dead body was pulled by his hair and thrown into a ditch.

The real name of Abu Jahl was Umru. Due to his cunning, and conniving nature he was given the title of Ab-ul-Hukm (father of command) but due to his prejudice and stubbornness the prophet called him Abu Jahl (the father of ignorance) as he was completely blind to Islam and its excellence.

Divine Command to Migrate:

Al-Quran Remember when the infidels contrived to make you a prisoner or to murder you Surah Anfal-8 or to expel you. They plotted, but God also planned, and God's plan is the best. Verse: 30

Finally the above mentioned command came to prophet MohammadS to migrate from Mecca to Medina, so as to thwart the plotting of infidels.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 This was the time when the Muslims were migrating to Yathrab (Medina) Pages: 140-141 secretly in groups of two to four. In Mecca the Muslims who were left behind were resourceless and weak and were helped secretly by those who had kept Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Pages: 153-154 their conversion concealed. The only prominent Muslims left behind in Mecca S A R were the prophet , Ali and Abu Bakr . The infidels feared that if these three Spirit of Islam also escaped then they would never be able to exercise any control on them. A Syed Ameer Ali secret emergency meeting was therefore called in Daar-ul-Nadwah, the council Pages: 132-133 hall which was built by Qussay Bin Kalab). When all the relevant chiefs had arrived the meeting started and suggestions The Life of MohammadS started coming up. One Ab-ul-Bakhtari suggested: Pages: 73-75 “We must capture our enemy (the prophet), fetter and shackle him, and keep him without food and water until he dies of hunger and thirst”. Others suggested: “No! We cannot do this as his tribe Banu Hashim and his companions will save him by freeing him”. Asad bin Rabii'a proposed: “Exile him and we will get rid of him”. But many opposed this suggestion, saying: “This action will free him and give him a chance to form a strong powerful front against us, as his eloquence has a magical effect”. Ultimately Abu Jahl who was sitting aside, proposed: “I swear by my god's La'at and Uzaa, and can give such a solution that all our problems will end”.

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Others inquired anxiously: "What is you plan? He disclosed arrogantly: “Chose a youth each from your tribes and then tell them to attack Mohammad collectively. This attack in unison will render Banu Hashim powerless and paralyzed. And taking revenge will be out of their reach. Then we will pay them Daiyat. The price of blood, which will take us off the hook”. This suggestion was unanimously approved and it was decided that the house of MohammadS will be besieged during night. When he will come out in the morning to pray in Ka’ba, they will attack him with their swords.

This was their secret plan, which was approved unanimously after a brief discussion. But one factor which they ignored in their discussion, was the Lord of MohammadS. The moment they had finalized their plan Allah Commanded the prophet to leave Mecca immediately and go to Medina. Prophet prayed before leaving.

Al-Quran O‟ my Lord, cause me to enter a goodly entrance and cause me to go out with a Surah Bani Israil-17 goodly exit, and grant me an authority from Your presence to assist me. Verse: 80

Prophet's Migration from Mecca to Medina:

Following the Divine Command prophet summoned AliA and gave him three instructions: 1. I have been commanded to leave Mecca, but I hold in trust some goods belonging to Meccans. You should return them after I have left. 2. Sleep on my bed covering yourself with my green Yemeni sheet. 3. Bring my dependents to the town of Quba‟ after I migrate.

Then the prophet went to his friend Abu BakrR and apprised him the plan. He said: “I have been ordained to leave Mecca tonight”.

Abu BakrR was already prepared for this eventuality. He had already arranged for two she- camels for himself and the prophet to ride.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Prophet MohammadS was not at ease being obliged by anyone, so he paid for Page: 153 his camel. AsmaR the daughter of Abu BakrR, prepared food for their journey. She tore up the waist-band of her clothing to pack the food. That is why she Sahih Bukhari Chapter: Migration earned the title of “Zat-ul-Nataqain”, as she catered for the prophet's journey. It is said that this action of her was virtuous than all her life-long virtuous deeds. A Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The night approached and as instructed Ali slept on prophet's bed, covering Page: 141 himself with the green sheet. As the prophet was leaving AliA asked him: "Will this save your life"? The prophet said: "Yes". Hearing this he went to sleep, because he was instructed to do so.

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AliA used to say: "The peaceful and deep sleep I enjoyed that night (in prophet's bed) I never enjoyed the rest of my life". This night was a dangerous night. AliA was aware of the peril as the Quraiysh had planned to kill the prophet. The bed which became a bed of roses for him could easily become the killing bed.

The party of killers besieged the house as planned, but the prophet escaped passing through their midst.

Commentators say that prophet passed through them reciting verse 9 of Surah Yasin. They fell asleep and no one was able to see prophet escaping:

Al-Quran We have set a barrier infront of them and a barrier behind them, and covered Surah Yasin-36 them over so that they do not see. Verse: 9 It is narrated that Allah sent those to sleep who surrounded the prophet's house;

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 thus they lay unconscious. Pages: 153 It is also said that the prophet had a handful of dust and reciting Surah Yasin's above mentioned verse threw it towards those who guarded the house. Then he The Life of left the house before their very eyes, and along with Abu BakrR took a route S Mohammad which did not go to Medina but to a cave called "Saur" which was in the south Page: 75 of Mecca; This was to deceive those who would follow him thinking that he was heading towards Medina.

On the other side, the party of Quraiysh who had besieged the house of prophet were confident that they had been vigilant all night. They peeped through the chinks and crack in the doors and seeing the prophet's bed occupied felt satisfied that their prey was at hand. Early in the morning they stood alert with drawn swords to attack the prophet as soon as he emerged from his door. As time passed slowly and the sun rose in the skies they were puzzled. They forced the door open and entered the house. As they lifted the sheet they saw AliA. They were furious and asked him: "Is it you Ali? Where is your companion Mohammad"? AliA replied innocently: "I do not know did you leave him in my trust?" They left the house in big haste, in big fury.

The Bargain: (Giving up this life for the cause of God):

Al-Quran Among the people is he who sells "Self" to get in exchange the pleasure of Surah Al-Baqarah-2 Allah, and verily Allah is affectionate to the servants. Verse: 207 Verily Allah has purchased from the faithful their "Selves" and their Al-Quran properties, for theirs in return is the garden of paradise. They fight in Allah's Surah Al-Bara’at-9 way and they slay and they are slain. It is a promise, a binding on God, in the Verse: 111 233

Torah and Bible and the Quran. Who is more faithful to his covenant than Allah? Therefore rejoice in the bargain which you have transacted, and that is a great achievement.

Both these Quranic verses were revealed for those people who were always prepared to lay down their lives for their Lord Allah, but there is a difference between the context of these verses.

In the Surah Baraa't, Allah speaks about those faithfulls whose lives were purchased by Allah and in return they were granted the life of paradise in the hereafter.

Whereas the verse 207 of Surah Al-Baqarah speaks about an individual among humans who sells his life only for pleasing God and does not long for any returns.

About the revelation of this verse Alama Sa'lbi writes (in his Tafseer-e-Namunah, Page-49): When the prophet decided to migrate, then he assigned the duly of AliA to return the amounts (held in trust by prophet) back to the people, and to sleep on his bed covering his body with the green sheet of the prophet. AliA knew that the Quraiysh youth with drawn swords had besieged the house, but he neither feared nor got alarmed, and slept coolly on prophet's bed

When Bani Abdul Muttalib and Bani Hashim were forced to live in the valley of Shai'b-e-Abu Talib after their social Boycott by Quraiysh Abu TalibR had told AliA:

Shara’-e Translation of Abu TalibR's poetry: Nahj-ul-Balagha-3 “O son Ali! In the distressing difficult times I made you the ransom of Page: 32 MohammadS, who is a friend and son of a friend (that is of Abdullah my brother)”. AliA had replied too in poetic form (translation): “O father! I will spend all my energy in helping the prophet who has come as a guide, and help him achieve success and victory. All my efforts will be to aid that prophet who brought mercy and blessings when he was a child and also when he was a youth”.

AliA thus stood firm on his commitment.

This loyal act on the night of migration, was actually the beginning of his stipulated vow he had taken with his father.

On that fateful morning while the Quraiysh were questioning AliA, Allah had taken the prophet away from their reach. It was the Divine plan that the prophet should not take the popular northern route to Medina, but to deceive the enemies he should take the route to south. Towards south in the mountain was a cave, which was favorable for human shelter. They could easily spend a few days in it. Perhaps Allah's wisdom had created this cave for this very purpose.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The situation was tense, the Quraiysh and their comrades were searching for Pages: 195-196 both of them in the city and its out-skirts. A time came that they reached the 234

very cave. Abu BakrR, hearing the sounds coming from outside the cave got afraid that the enemy might discover them. The prophet them comforted Abu BakrR that there was no need to worry as they

were being guarded and protected by none other than Allah. He (Abu Bakr) was the second of the two when they were in the cave and when he (Mohammad) said to his companion: "Do not fear, verily Allah is with us". Al-Quran So Allah sent down tranquility upon him and strengthened him with hosts (of Surah Tauba-9 angels) you did not see, and made the word of those who did not believe abject. Verse: 40 By Allah's Will, a spider wove a web across the mouth of the cave, and in front

of it a pigeon laid her eggs. Seeing this, the pursuers presumed that no one had entered the cave for a long time and did not search it. The Quraiysh then S The Holy Quran announced a reward of 100 camels for anyone who would find Mohammad . Aqa Puya Page: 145

On the fourth day the faithful servant who had been engaged by Abu BakrR to guide them towards Medina appeared with the two she-camels.

Spirit of Islam As soon as they emerged from the cave, Saraqa Bin Jausam who was a Syed Ameer Ali hardened evil person and was in search of them in greed of the reward of 100 Page: 134 camels, saw them and rushed towards them on his horse. Abu BakrR was worried and said to the prophet: "Now we cannot escape". But the prophet said: "don't be afraid, Allah is our Guardian". As he came near his horse stumbled and he fell down. This frightened him so much that he suddenly requested Prophet to forgive him. The prophet forgave him and he left in submission.

After that they embarked on their journey and reached Yathrib's outskirts in the southern town of Quba, on first day of June 622 AD. It was a hot day. Some have narrated the date of arrival in Quba as 2nd September 622 AD.

A Short History of As soon as the prophet entered the town of Yathrib a man from Jewish Islam. Page: 47 community, who was watching from a tower, saw and recognized the prophet. He shouted aloud from the tower: “O people of Yathrib! Congratulations, the person for whom you were waiting has arrived”.

Hearing this all those who had assembled to greet the prophet, shouted the Islamic slogan Allah- o-Akbar.

It is worth nothing that the arrival of the Prophet at a place which was to become the land of Islam, was first seen by a Jewish person. This shows that Jews were as eager to witness the coming of prophet as Muslims. This should not surprise anyone as the Torah and the Bible, both had prophecied his coming. Quran says:

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Al-Quran Those to whom We have given the book (Jews, Christian etc.) recognize him Surah Al-Ana’m-6 (Mohammad) as they recognize their (own) sons, yet those who have lost their Verse: 20 souls will not believe. Those to whom We have given the book recognize him (Mohammad) as they Al-Quran recognize their own children; and verily some of them conceal the truth while Surah Al-Baqarah-2 Verse: 146 they knew.

The prophet stayed in the town of Quba‟ till the time that his family arrived, which included his wife SaudaR, daughter FatimaA, Fatima Binte ZubayrR and Fatima binte AsadR along with Umme AimenR. All of them stayed at the house of Quba elite, Kulsoom bin Al-hadamR.

After the departure of the prophet from Mecca, AliA stayed back there for three days and returned back to their owners the trusts deposited by them with the prophet. Then he arranged for a camel and taking the above mentioned ladies travelled towards Quba‟. The ladies mounted the camel and AliA walked along the distance of 200 miles to reach Quba‟.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Page: 126 The prophet stayed in Quba‟ for 14 days.

Maulana Safdar Hussain Najafi in his Tafseer-e-Namuna Volume-3 Page-164 and Hujat-ul- Islam Hussain Bux Jada in his Anwaar-ul-Najaf volume-4 Page-99 have written about the revelation of two verses of Surah Baqarah, that they were revealed when the prophet had migrated and had stopped on his way to Medina at the town of Quba‟, and was waiting for AliA and his family. Verse apparently addresses all the righteous refugees, yet the word "Unsa" (women) relates to the women who migrated with AliA and did not cow down in face of deadly hazards of the journey. Those righteous ones undertook the journey remembering all the time and thanking Him for the comforts He created for the human beings.

Prophet MohammadS stayed in Quba for 14 days and he himself participated in the construction of a mosque there. This mosque was named “Masjid-e-Quba” and the first prayer in this mosque was led by prophet himself.

Some commentators narrate a tradition on the authority of Umme SalmaR that she asked: “O prophet! Allah has not included women while speaking about migration”?

It was this question in reply of which the above mentioned verses, were revealed. (Ref: Translation Quran, Printed by: Shah Fahad Printing Complex, Page-198).

The family of Abu BakrR also joined late, who migrated under the protection of Zubair bin Awam and Abu BakrA's sons Abdullah and Abdur Rehman.

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Chapter -7 Madina-tun-Nabi (Yathrab) (The City of the Prophet)

In the west of Arabian Peninsula from Palestine to Suez Canal is a range of mountains which runs along the Shores of Red Sea ending in Yemen. In Arabic, this region is called Hijaz. It contains deserts, green valleys, fertile oasis and large tracks of barren uninhabited wilderness. Mecca and Medina, the sacred cities of Islam are in Hijaz. Both the cities are nearly, 210 miles apart and are the cradle of Islam and Islamic civilization. Prior to the prophets migration Madina was known as Yathrib in Arabic and Yasrab in Urdu. As the prophet arrived here it was named Madina-tun-Nabi “The City of the Prophet”.

The Ancient and Present day Inhabitants of Yathrib:

Short history of The history of Yathrib shows that it was established by a chief of Amalqa tribe, Islam. Page: 49 who was a descendent of Shem Bin Noah. His tribe inhabited the city.

Jews:

Between 587 BC and 597 BC, the Babylonian Emperor Nebuchadnezzar attacked the Jewish state destroyed their city Jerusalem, and took them prisoners. Few who succeeded in surviving the disaster, migrated towards Hijaz and settled down in and around Yathrib.

Another inflow of Jewish refugees came in the last century BC and the first century AD, escaping the horrors of calamities, which descended upon them in face of Greek and Roman powers. They had to migrate and go to their brethren in faith in Yathrib. The ancient settlers (non-Jews) either left the area or were merged in the majority i.e, Jews. The Jews established settlements in the fertile Oasis of Hijaz, the famous ones were known as Khyber, Fidk and Yathrib. In Yathrib their three tribes of Bani Nazir, Bani Qurayza and Bani Quaynuqa got settled.

Jews were Monotheists; though they had defied their own prophet(Jesus) yet awaited the arrival of the new prophet. They were led to believe that this prophet will be from amongst their own tribes. They were staunch followers of faith but their faith was not based purely on Torah. They accepted what suited them and rejected what went against them. However, they adopted the Arabic culture, the Arabic dressing code and the Arabic language. These Jews were a disciplined people both religiously and politically and lived in fortresses, which were self-contained towns in themselves with markets, shops, craftsmen etc. By profession, the majority followed their forefathers. They 237 were agriculturists and were owners of their family estates, which consisted mainly of orchards. They were a rich community.

Aous and Khizraj:

In the south of Arabia is situated the country of Yemen. Its inhabitants were the descendents of Qahtan Bin Abr, hence were known as Qahatany tribe. In ancient history, this area was known as the land of Saba and was ruled by the dynasty of the same name. However, after some time because of one of the sons of Saba known as Humair the name changed to Himyarite Dynasty.

In 120 AD, heavy rains played havoc and flooded the country of Saba (now known as Yemen). The smaller Dams of the country broke down initially and then the storm and floods destroyed the pride of the nation, the famous Dam called Sadd-e-Maa’rib. This added to the calamity by submerging the whole country under the gushing waters. This debacle left the land a desolate uninhabited ruin for a long period. The country of Saba was also lost in history.

After the disaster those few who survived, migrated and settled in northern Arabia in Hijaz and Najd. Two brothers of the Himyarite tribe, called Aous and Khizrj came with their families and settled down in Yathrib in the 4th century AD. Initially they were financially dependent on Jews, but as they were idol-worshipers and polytheists, the Jews did not like them and mistreated them. Soon their relations became sour and they asked the Syrians to help them. The Syrians attacked Yathrib and drove the Jews out, this ended the hegemony of the Jews in Yathrib and the two tribes Aous and Khizrj took sole control of the region.

After sometime the Jewish tribe of Quaynuqa had disputes with the other two tribes and they sought asylum with Bani Khizrj, who gave them permission to come back and settle down in Yathrib under their patronage Banu Quaryza and Banu Nazir took refuge with the Aous tribe. Though these Himyarite tribes had subdued the Jews politically, yet they could neither compete with their economic shrewdness nor with their religious, social and literary practices. In these areas, Jews proved their superiority.

Aous and Khizrj were polytheists and worshiped various gods. Thus they lacked religious unity. Absence of knowledge and education bred ignorance among them, which ultimately led to family feuds and lack of tolerance with each other. It soon resulted in conflicts and skirmishes. Enmity became the only bond between these people.

Battle of B’aas:

With the passage of time the two clans became large tribes. The next 150 years saw these tribes branch out into 20 sub-tribes. They had no love lost between them and a perpetual state of conflict and unrest became the hallmark of Yathrib. The situation had all the seeds of a bigger conflict and ultimately a time came when both Aous and Khizrj faced each other in a battle along with their

238 allies. This battle known in history as the Battle of B’aas was fought in 616 AD. Many died including some powerful chiefs from both sides yet the result of all this killing and fighting was inconclusive. The situation worsened for Aous and Khizraj, but who gained were the Jewish community.

Sanity prevailed after a long time and some of the elders in both the tribes sat down to find out a solution. They decided to choose a common ruler, who would control both the tribes, and finally Abdullah Bin Ubai‟, a chieftain of the Khizraj tribe was unanimously chosen to be their ruler in the future. They had still to announce their decision, when the Jews started propagating that their (promised and prophesied) prophet was about to arrive. They claimed that their prophet (who would be from Bani Israel) will fight with non-Jews and will preach Judaism.

They were certainly right to the extent that a prophet had arrived; but he was from the lineage of IshmaelA, the other son of Prophet AbrahamA and the brother of IsaacA (the fore-father of Bani Israil). The Jews were not mentally prepared for the prophesied prophet of Torah and Bible to come from tribes other than Bani Israil.

Precisely at the same time when Abdullah Ibne Ubai‟ was to be crowned as the ruler, some of the Yathrib citizens pledged allegiance to prophet MohammadS. They invited him to make (Medina) Yathrib his homeland and were to open the city gates for the Muslim immigrants. Two years after his initial preaching to the people of Yathrib, the prophet finally arrived in this city. This arrival changed not only the name of the city from Yathrib to Medina-tun-Nabi i.e, “The City of the prophet” but also changed it‟s life and culture. Abdullah was not crowned; this made him an enemy of the prophet. Forced by the circumstances he did outwardly convert to Islam, but he was neither a Muslim at heart nor a follower of the prophet. He and his companions had a clandestine motive in appearing as Muslims. This act of theirs gave them the name of Hypocrites or “Munafiqeen” in history. Yathrib the City of Immigrants:

The question which arises is why did Allah chose Yathrib from amongst the many cities of Arabia for the preaching and propagation of Islam, commanding the prophet to migrate and to make Yathrib his permanent abode. The first reason was that though the prophet preached Islam for a period as long as 13 years in Mecca, yet the Quraiysh, their chiefs and also the people of Taif did never try to understand the teachings of Islam. They personally not only closed their eyes and ears to Islam but also were not willing to leave the prophet and his followers in peace. They continued to make life of Muslims unbearable in Mecca. They arrogantly refused the offer made by the prophet that God will grant them kingdoms in Arabia and outside Arabia if they only accepted Islam and the Kalima “There is no God but Allah”. But their pride, tribal prejudice, enmity with Banu Hashim, hypocrisy, and stubbornness, blinded them to Truth and Reality. They failed to understand the auspicious prophet, nor did they realize what Divine Blessings MohammadS had brought for them. The Meccans had no idea that the Hashemite youth‟s presence amongst them, had brought them Divine Mercy, Relief and Benevolence. They continued to refute prophet-hood and make life miserable for his followers.

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All this had made a Divine move inevitable and the prophet and the Muslims were commanded to migrate. The Meccans were thus deprived of all those Divine Blessings the presence of the prophet had brought to Mecca.

Out of the whole of Arabia, God chose the best and opportune place for migration of Prophet, Yathrib. Similarly God gave him the best abode as an orphan, (his grandfather and his uncles).When he lacked finance, God made him rich (through KhadijaR as his wife and business partner).When his life became miserable at Mecca, then God gave him land and made him master of a region the people of which area welcomed him with open arms, and helped him and his followers to settle down respectably. For this act of theirs, they were given the title of “Ansar” by Allah.

This region, which was bestowed on the prophet, was a small city built in an Oasis in the foothills of Uhud hills, which worked like a fortress. The city therefore had natural protection and that is why it had been safe from invasions.

Location of Yathrib:

Yathrib was established as a city before 1000 BC by an Amaliqa chief of the same name. After the migration of Prophet it became Medina-tun-Nabi. Yathrib is located almost in the middle of the largest province of Arabia, i.e, Hijaz.

In its east is the Najd Plateau, which spreads as far as present day Iraq. In its west is Red Sea about 100 miles away, whereas many small settlements are in the north, stretching as far as Syria.

Webs Dictionary In the south of Yathrib is Mecca at a distance of 210 miles. Protected by Page: 621 mountains, Yathrib had been a city safe from invaders, and a haven for those who sought refuge from their enemies. Yathrib therefore became a city of immigrants, which provided shelter to the refugees.

The Trade Route of the Quraiysh:

Apart from its location, Yathrib had another importance; towards the west of the city passed the famous trade route, which had its starting point in Yemen. It went along the Red Sea (in the western part of Yathrib) and reached Syria. All trade of the Quraiysh was done through this route, their caravans passed day and night on it. Hence it was the life-line of their economy. Their yearly trade was approximately of 250,000Ashrafy (gold coins)whereas that of Taif and other cities was in addition to it.

Yathrib was situated at almost midpoint of the trade route, approximately50 or 60 miles to the east of this route. The refugees (Mohajir) and Ansar of the city had easy access to it and if ordered could easily block the route, destroying the Quraiysh trade which was the backbone of their economy.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 This was the reason that as soon as the prophet had settled down in Medina, he Page: 122 signed peace agreements with all those tribes who were located between 240

Medina and this trade route. It was a tactical move to exercise control on the trade route. The Quraiysh were not aware of this move of the prophet. They became aware of the situation when a chief of Medina (Saad Bin Muaz) visited Mecca for pilgrimage. He wanted to perform Umra. As he came to the door of Ka’ba, he met Abu Jahl who blocked his way and said: “You have given refuge to those who have diverted and left our faith, still you believe that we will allow you to circumbulate the Ka’ba. If you had not been the guest of Ummya Bin Khalf, you would not have returned from here alive”. At this Saad replied: “By God if you will prevent me from performing Umra, then we (people of Medina) will block the trade route and this will be a more severe act”.

This hindrance in Saad‟s path by Abu Jahl was actually an announcement by the Meccans that the Muslims will not be permitted to visit Ka’ba, whereas the reply of Saad was a warning from the Medinites that the Syrian trade route will then become a danger zone for them (the Meccans). This threat from Saad frightened the Quraiysh chiefs, and it was actually this fear, which became the root cause of the Battle of Badar.

The Prophet of God in Yathrib:

Brief summary from After a stay of 14 days in Quba, the prophet with his companions started his Seerat-un-Nabi-1 journey in a caravan to Yathrib. It was a Friday and at noon (prayer time) they Page: 157 reached Bani Salem, where the prophet led the first congregation of Friday

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 prayer. This was the first Friday prayer, which was offered in place of Zohr, Page: 493-494 and in this prayer a Khutba (sermon) was given first time by the prophet before leading the prayer.

Tafseer-e-Namunah Though the Divine Command of special Friday congregation had been received while the prophet was still in Mecca, yet the situation for such a gathering was not favorable there. The prophet had however sent a written order to Muslims of Yathrib (after the second allegiance pledge of Yathrib delegates) to offer the special Friday Prayers at noon, along with a sermon).

Obeying the Command in Yathrib, the leader of the refugees Mus‟ib bin U‟mair, led the first Friday congregation (of refugees and local Ansar) and delivered the first Friday sermon, in the absence of the prophet.

This Command of congregational prayers at noontime on Friday was in accordance with the practice of previous Monotheist Religions of Divine Books. They too had a chosen day during the week, when prayers were offered collectively by the community. Amongst the Jews it was called “Sabat” i.e, Saturday and among the Christian, Sunday. Friday was chosen for the Muslims. A different day was chosen to show distinction.

An incident is worth mentioning here. In the initial stage of the Muslim State of Medina, while the prophet was delivering his Friday sermon, a caravan of merchants from Syria arrived in the city.

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As per tradition they beat the drums to draw the attention of the customers. Those who had assembled for prayer, majority of them left the prayer and rushed out for the caravan. Only twelve did not leave. It was at this point that the famous Surah Juma’h was revealed to the prophet. It says:

Al-Quran  Glory to God (to whom belongs) whatever is in the heavens and whatever is Surah Al-Juma’h-62 in the earth. (He is) the King, the most High, the ever Prevalent, the All- Verses: 1 to 11 wise.  He it is who raised among the illiterates an Apostle among them, reciting unto them His signs, purifying them, teaching them the Book (Quran) and wisdom although they were of before in manifest straying.  And unto the others from among them who have not yet joined with them. And He is the ever Prevalent, the All-wise. That is the Grace of God He

grants to whom He pleases.  The similitude of those holding Torah and not following it is like a donkey loaded with books. Wretched is the similitude of those who believe the signs of God. God does not guide unjust.  Say (O Mohammad) “O you, who profess Judaism, if you claim that you are

the only favorites of God excluding all other people, then desire for death if you are truthful. But never will they desire for it because of what they have sent before with their own hands (the accountability of their deeds). God knows well about unjust. Say (O Mohammad), verily the death you flee it will overtake you, than you shall be returned to the knower of the unseen and seen, he will tell you of whatever you used to do.

 you who believe, when the call is made for prayer on Friday, then hasten you all unto the remembrance of God and leave off all trading. That is better for you, if only you know. And when the prayer is ended, then you disperse in the earth and seek of the grace of God ad remember God much, so that you may be successful.

 When they see merchandise or sport, they break away unto it and leave you standing. Say (O Mohammad), what is with God is better than sports and merchandise and God is the best of sustainers.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 The prophet after reciting the above-mentioned verses , warned: Page: 503 “If all of the congregation had left, leaving not a single person behind, then this valley would have been engulfed by fire”.

Now let us return to the event of the first Friday prayer led by the Prophet in the town of Bani Salem.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After the prayer, the Prophet along with the Mohajrin (refugees) continued his Pagr: 157 journey. The chiefs of both the towns Bani Quba and Bani Salm were on both sides of the prophet and he rode the she-camel called Qaswa. As the caravan proceeded, Muslims of the settlements along its route joined in.

Thus the prophet rode in the centre of two rows of followers. As he passed settlements, the heads of Ansar families of those settlements came forward and holding the reins of his she-camel said: “O prophet! Here are our homes, our lives, our properties, please stay with us”.

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The prophet appreciating them prayed for them and replied: “Leave the reins of my camel, she has Divine orders. She will stop where she has to”.

When the news reached Medina that the prophet was approaching, the Ansar rushed out to welcome him. The relatives of his mother AmnaR belonging to the tribe Banu Najaar, adorning themselves with weapons and shouting slogans in favor of the prophet also came out to welcome him. The Prophet had another relationship with Banu-Najjaar i.e, his great grandfather, Abdul MuttalibR, had married in this tribe.

Can one imagine the simple yet magnificent reception of MohammadS, the Messenger of Allah, at the city of Medina. The camel-riders of Ansar, refugees and Banu Najaar came forward with their riders forming a welcoming column on both sides of the road, women stood on roof-tops singing greeting songs and beating the Tambourines, the prophet heard them singing (specially the girls of Banu Najaar): Behold! The moon is rising in the valleys of Mount Wada‟, It‟s our duty to thank our Lord. Until people continue praying for Divine Blessings. We belong to the tribe of Banu Najaar and MohammadS the holy prophet is the best of neighbors. With the young innocent girls singing loving songs, the men at intervals raising the slogan Allah-o-Akbar i.e, Allah is Great” and the tambourines providing background music, such an impressive simple and sincere reception, which the holy prophet received, was perhaps not witnessed by any other prophet on earth.

The Life of The camel of the prophet stopped in an open ground nearly in the centre of the S Muhammad city, and then sat down. The prophet of Allah descended his camel and put foot Page: 84 on the ground of Yathrib at the same spot.

This piece of land where the prophet stepped down from his camel was in the neighborhood of Banu Najaar, and belonged to two orphans of the same tribe. Abu Ayub Ansari who also belonged to the same tribe had his two-storied house near this ground. As soon as the prophet came down from the camel, he took the saddle and prophet‟s luggage (whatever it was) to his house. According to the Arab tradition, this was an announcement that the prophet would be his guest, as he got down from his camel near his house.

Still the anxious Ansar inquired: “O prophet of Allah! In which house will you stay”? The prophet replied: “In the house which has my camel‟s saddle”. The issue was thus settled to the satisfaction of all.

The Construction of Masjid-e-Nabvi.(The Prophet‟s Mosque):

As soon as the prophet settled down in Medina, his foremost concern was the construction of a mosque. For this purpose he chose the ground where his camel had stopped. He summoned its 243 owners, the two orphans, and sought their permission for the construction. They readily agreed as it was a great honor that a mosque was to be constructed on their land. Then the prophet bought that piece of land from them. They were initially reluctant in taking the money and desired to offer their land free, but it was against the Islamic injunctions, hence the prophet compelled them to accept the price; and consoled them that Allah will reward them for this act, as He is the One who knows even our intentions. The construction then started.

Spirit of Islam The foremost holiness of this mosque lies in the fact that the Prophet, his Syed Ameer Ali Muslim followers and his companions all labored together to construct this Page: 141 mosque. The very first day when its foundation stone was laid it was named

after the prophet, and ever after it became famous in the world as Masjid-e- Nabvi (The Prophet‟s Mosque). In its initial form it was simple structure. The walls were of mud bricks, the roof of thatch (made from date trees) and pillars were made of date tree trunks. It was a symbol of Islam in its Simplicity.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 In the beginning prayers were offered on naked ground, this is the reason many Page: 151 religious scholars regard the act of prostration (in prayer)on earth or on dust, as liked by God the most. The prophet would lean on the trunk of a date tree to deliver the sermon.

Saffa and Companions of Saffa:

After construction of the mosque a piece of ground had remained vacant, on which a platform was raised which was sheltered by a roof of date tree leaves. This place was reserved for those who had no homes. Soon the platform attracted many seekers of knowledge in addition to the homeless.

This platform was named Saffa (Shelter) and the people taking shelter here were called Companions of Saffa. The number of these companions kept on changing as some left while others came in. Traders arrived and departed and persons who got married also left. Some remained for a long period and amongst them were many close associates of the prophet for example Abu-zar-al- GifariR, Bilal-al-HabashiR, Abdullah ibne Mas‟udR, Abu Said-al-HudriR, Talha ibne UbaydullahR etc. four priors to the demise of prophet, Abu HurairaR also joined this group, who had embraced Islam on the occasion of Hudybiya Peace Accord in 6thHijri.He is famous for narrating a large number of traditions (Hadith) of the prophet. The construction of Rooms for the Prophet‟s Wives:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After the completion of the mosque, the rooms for prophet‟s wives were built Page: 169 adjacent to it. He had his wife SaudaR with him, whereas AiyshaR‟s Nikah had been performed but the consummation of marriage was yet to come.

Hence only two rooms of about 15x9 ft were constructed with mud bricks. Both rooms had common courtyard and two doors, one opening into the courtyard and the other in to the mosque.

Later on as the prophet‟s wives increased so did the rooms adjacent to the mosque. During that period some of prophet‟s companions also got their houses made adjacent to the mosque, having two doors one opening in to the mosque and the other in to the street. 244

Call for prayer (Azaan) and Congregational prayers:

Now that the mosque was completed, congregational prayers were to start. Until now Muslims used to come in groups of two or four to offer prayer because the real use of mosque for congregational prayers was not possible.

Tafseer-e-Namunah Divine Revelation gave the prophet the method of calling Muslims for prayers. Page: 327 This method had been used ever since and would continue to be used in future as well i.e, calling out Azaan.

The words of the call (Azaan) which were revealed, were taught to BilalR (the Ethiopian) by the prophet, as he possessed an appealing melodious voice. His manner of reciting was also superb, which made the whole atmosphere echoe with the Unity of Allah and announced the prophet-hood of MohammadS. Hearing his call Muslims rushed towards the mosque, where they found the prophet singing hymns in the glory of his Lord.

This was the first call for the congregational prayers but when the Jews and Christians heard it they mocked and taunted. That was the time the prophet received the following revelations:

Al-Quran O you who believe, do not take guardians those who hold your religion in Surah Mayda-5 mockery and fun from among those who were given the Book before you, and Verses: 57-58 (also) the infidels. Fear God, if you are believers. And when you call to prayer (Azaan), they make it a mockery and a sport because they are a people who understand not.

Medina-tun-Nabi (The City of the Prophet):

Right from the moment the prophet laid his foot on the land of Yathrib, it became his city which was named Medina-tun-Nabi. Later on, it was simply called Medina. The ancient Yathrib became a part of history. However sometimes in history it is also called “Daar-ul-Hijrat” i.e, “The Dwelling of Immigrants”. As compared to it Mecca was often referred as “Daar-ul-Harb” in Islamic history which means “Land of the enemies or infidels” as they were avowed enemies of Muslims.

The Financial and Political Status of Medina:

When the Mohajrin reached Medina and the prophet too arrived, the population of Medina swelled. It could be categorized into four distinct groups.

1. The Ansar (Locals): They were the intellectuals and visionaries of Yathrib who inhabited the city prior to the arrival of the Muslims. They not only accepted Islam readily and had complete faith in Allah and His Messenger but also provided shelter to the Mohajrin and helped them in all walks of life. 245

The Quranic verses speak about the love, help and friendship they offered the Mohajrin. Though all were not rich, yet each Ansar tried his best in proving a good host to them.

Al-Quran The Ansar prefer the Mohajirs over their own selves though their own lot be Surah Al-Hashr-59 poverty. Whoever is saved from the niggardliness of self, they are the Verses: 9-10 successful ones.

2. The Mohajirin (Refugees):

Those Meccans who had embraced Islam, had to face the tyranny and cruelty of Quraiysh to such an extent that they had no option but to migrate. They not only left their homeland, but also their relatives and assets. However they brought with them to Medina the greatest wealth i.e, their religion and faith. The people of Medina welcomed them with open arms and offered them their homes. The Quran says in appreciation of both:

Al-Quran The foremost (among believers) are the first of the Mohajirs and the Ansar and Surah Tauba-9 those who followed them in goodness. God is well-pleased with them and they Verse: 100 are well-pleased with Him. God has prepared for them Jannat, beneath which flow rivers. They will abide there forever. That is a great success.

3. The Munafiqun (Hypocrites):

This was the group who had joined Abdullah Ibne Ubai‟ and belonged to the Aous and Khizrj tribes. Apparently they had accepted Islam, but in their hearts and minds they were non-believers. They planned secretly to hinder the progress of Islam and Muslims. The prophet was fully aware of them as his Lord had informed him about these people.

Al-Quran  The (rustic) Arabs (of the desert) who are around you (O Mohammad), there Surah Tauba-9 are hypocrites (among them), and also among the inhabitants of Medina. Verse: 101 They are stubborn in hypocrisy. You do not know them but We know them. Twice shall We chastise them. Then shall they be turned into a grievous chastisement.

Al-Quran  When the hypocrites came to you (O Mohammad) saying: “We bear witness Surah Munafqun-63 that verily you are the Apostle of God” ___Certainly God knows that you (Hypocrites) are His Apostle, but God bears witness that these hypocrites are liars. Verses: 1 to 4  They make their oaths a shield, thus they obstruct others from the way of God. Verily evil is what they are upto. This is because they believe and then disbelieve. So a seal has been set upon their hearts, and they understand not.  When you see them you will marvel at their personalities, and when they speak you will (be attracted to) listen to them. (But actually they are) as if they were blocks of wood propped up in garments. They suspect that every cry is against them. Beware of them, they are your enemies. May God annihilate them, whence do thy deviate!

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4. Jews:

Spirit of Islam They were settled in Medina and its adjacent areas. They were Monotheists Syed Ameer Ali and believed in all prophets except Jesus Christ and had full faith in life after Page: 145 death, Doomsday, Paradise and Hell but did not believe that MohammadS was a prophet.

As the time passed their presence in Medina proved to be a great danger for Muslims. They had close trade ties with the Quraiysh of Mecca, and people of their faith and race were spread far and wide in areas which were against Islam. At first they joined the tribes of Aous and Khizrj in welcoming the prophet and his followers but soon they showed their true colors and conspired against Muslims.

These Jews who were settled in Medina and its suburbs had migrated from cultured and civilized societies of Syria, Palestine and Rome. Among them were learned scholars who had knowledge of Divine Books and Torah and they had opened many educational institutions to teach their young. They were a proud and arrogant people who regarded themselves superior to the Arabs, whom they called “Ummi” i.e, illiterate and ignorant. They believed it their right to treat the Arabs as they wished. But among them were also those righteous souls who prayed to God sincerely and sought the truth. Quran says:

Al-Quran  Say (O Mohammad); “Verily the true guidance is from God. You (envy) that Surah Al-i-Imran-3 to any other has been bestowed the like of what has been given to you Verse: 72-75 (prophet-hood), or you fear that they would dispute you in the presence of your Lord”.  Say (O Mohammad); “Grace is in the hands of God. He grants it unto whomsoever he likes. Verily God is Omniscient, All-knowing. He single out for His mercy whomsoever He likes, and verily God is the Lord of great Grace”.

 From among the people of the Book (Jews, Christians etc.) are such whom if you entrust even a heap of gold, he will return it to you. There are also such whom if you entrust a Dinar he will not return it to you unless you keep firmly demanding it. This is because they say “It is not incumbent on us to be faithful to the Ummis (Ignorants)”. ___They utter a lie against God knowingly.

 Yes, whosoever keeps his promise and guards against evil, verily God loves those who guard themselves.

Al-Quran The people of the Book are not all alike. Among them is a group so upright in Surah Al-i-Imran-3 faith that they recite the Signs of God all along the night, and prostrate Verse: 113 themselves in adoration. They believe in God and in the Last Day and enjoin goodness and forbid evil and hasten to do good deeds. They are of the righteous ones.

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Prophet‟s initial reforms in Medina:

If the situation had been the usual one that people of one city provided shelter to the people of another city and helped them escape the clutches of their enemies then the historical outcome would have also been the usual one like the previous immigrant tribes of Jews, Aous and Khizraj etc who settled down here in course of centuries and made it their home-land. Muslim too would have taken their time for setting down. But history provides a very different picture of Muslim migration to Medina.

Those who arrived with their leader MohammadS, were not ordinary people nor was their chief a common man. He was the last Messenger who was chosen by God Almighty to preach his last Book (Quran) and to establish the Shariah of Quran among mankind which was supposed to last until the Doomsday. This was a gigantic task to be performed within limited time, and Prophet Mohammad performed it superbly.

Al-Quran We have sent among you a Prophet from among yourselves who recites unto Surah Baqarah-2 you Our signs, purifies you, teaches you the Book and the Wisdom, and teaches Verse: 151 you that which you did not know

God Almighty in a brief but superbly eloquent way defined the role of prophet MohammadS in the above quoted verse, and also the role of Quran as below:

Al-Quran He has sent down unto you the Book of truth (Quran), confirming what was Surah Al-i-Imran-3 before it. He sent down the Torah and the Injeel (Bible) aforetime, a guidance Verse: 3 for people. (Then) He sent down the Furqaan (Quran).

This prophet who was forced to leave the ignorant people of Mecca for the people of Medina to recite before them the verses of Allah, teach them purification of body and purification of soul, and explain to them the hidden and manifest knowledge and wisdom of Holy Quran. He was not only for this era and people, but for the whole of mankind and for the present and future times till the end of time. Allah had sent him on earth to guide humanity, and his teachings were to be the last and final.

To spread this message far and wide. Medina was chosen by Allah as the centre where a model state was to be formed, based on the principles of Quran such as social justice, equality, freedom of religion and ethics of Quranic codes of life. Creation of a society based on ethics of Quran essentially depended on two factors:

i. Purification of Soul: So as to chasten and improve intentions, moral and ethical values, cultural, social and political mode of thoughts. ii. Learning of Holy Quran to acquire Wisdom and Knowledge of both aspects i.e, hidden and manifest and to put it into practice in daily life.

The 7th century AD had seen a sharp decline in Human values all around. Specially the Arab world had plunged into great ignorance and the Arab tribes were like a flock of strayed sheep. The 248 situation in Arabia was so bad that the thought of correcting and reforming it was beyond human imagination. In this atmosphere the very thought of building a Quranic Puritan Society was impossible and beyond reality. But nothing came in the way of Divine Will, Guided by His Command the prophet who worked a miracle, and established the state of Medina on the foundations desired by the Lord, within a matter of few years.

Islamic Brotherhood:

Al-Quran Verily those who believed and migrated and strived with their properties and Surah Anfal-8 their lives in the way of God, and those who gave shelter and helped them, they Verse: 72 are the guardians of one another.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 This was the first step in the initiation of uniting his followers and creating an Page: 160 Islamic brotherhood.

A short History of Soon after the migration when the above mentioned verse was revealed, the R Islam prophet asked his followers to gather at the house of Anus Bin Malik and Page: 51 informed them: “I have been Commanded by Allah to declare you all (Refugees and Ansar) brothers and heirs of each other”. Then he recited the revealed verses and after that announced the pairs of one refugee and one local, based on the like-mindedness of the individuals.

Before calling out the pairs, he declared: “Ali is my brother herein and in hereafter”. After that he started calling out the names of individual pairs and holding their hands declared: “You two are brothers from now on”. Below are some of the names of those who were declared brothers.

1. Abu BakrR Kharja Bin Zayd AnsariR 2. Umer FarooqR Utban Bin Malik AnsariR 3. Usman GhaniR Aous Bin Sabit AnsariR 4. Abu Ubaida Bin JarrahR Saad Bin MuazR 5. Zubyr Bin Al-AwamR Salaama AnsariR 6. Musi‟m Bin Umi‟rR Abu Ayub AnsariR 7. Amaar Bin YasyrR Hazifa Bin Yamaani AnsariR 8. AbuZar GhaffariR Manzar Bin Umroo AnsariR 9. Salman FarsyR Abu Durdana AnsariR 10. Bilal HabashiR Abu Rawaha AnsariR 11. Huzyfa Bin Atba Bin Rabi‟ahR Abad Bin Bashar AnsariR 12. Saeed Bin ZayedR Aby Bin Kaab AnsariR 13. Hamza Ibne Abdul MuttalibR Zayed Bin Haris AnsariR 14. Jaffar Bin Abu TalibR Muaz Bin Jabal AnsariR 249

Though Jaffar Bin Abu TalibR was still in Ethiopia and had not reached Medina yet, the prophet declared his brotherhood with Muaz Bin JabalR. This general announcement of brotherhood though was on temporary basis so that homeless and shelterless Meccans could be provided relief, yet it worked wonders for uniting the Muslims of Medina.

This relationship based on fraternity had far-reaching effects. It bounded the immigrants with the locals in everyday life in such a manner that they shared each other‟s joy, sorrow and problems. This helped in ending the age old enmities between the Aous and Khizrj tribes and with the newly arrived Muslims in Medina they formed a brotherhood based on equality and fraternity. All Muslims gathered under the same flag of Islam. All past distinctions of local Medinates were merged into one label that of Ansar, and they were no more called as members of different tribes and clans. Similarly those who had left behind their homes, they were all called as Mohajir (Refugees).

This announcement was not merely an act of calling out the partners from both groups and joining their hands, but the conduct, nature, attitude and behavior of both the partners was kept in mind by the prophet. People may say how a person could know so much about the strangers he had become acquainted only recently, but it was God‟s help to His prophet. After this announcement, all partners embraced each other and congratulated each other as if they were real brothers. Ansar took their refugee brothers to their homes, and equally divided all that they possessed between themselves.

The Ansar were owners of land and houses. They lived in the fertile Oasis and were agriculturists by profession. The refugees were traders and herdsmen and possessed very little knowledge of agriculture. The Ansar showing their selfless and generous attitude tilled the land and divided equally the yield with their brethren.

The sincerity and brotherly attitude of Ansar was appreciated by the refugees but they looked for opportunities to reduce the burden on their brothers. They endeavored to start various kinds of businesses and trade and tried to utilize their experience and abilities. For example, Abdul Rehman Bin AufR hesitated to take his share offered by his brother Saad Bin RabiaR, and said: “May God Bless you with all your assets; kindly show me the way to the market and allow me to live in your house”.

He was shown the way to the market of Banu Qainqah. went there, bought some cheese and butter-oil, and started his trading business. Soon the business started thriving. So much so that he used to say:“I have gained a Midas touch”.

Abu BakrR was a cloth merchant; he started the same in Medina and gradually established a cloth-making outfit at Sakh. Umer FarooqR too started trading, and UsmanR traded in dates. AliA laboured in the date orchards. The refugee women were familiar with spinning, so they worked at home on their spinning wheels and helped the male members of their family.

The mindset which came into existence after the announcement of brotherhood and fraternity between the locals and immigrants proved to be great landmark in the fruitfulness of prophet‟s efforts and sent just the right signals to the outsiders.

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The Charter of Medina:

The establishment of an Islamic State in Medina was no less than a miracle as the city had a potential for every kind of opposition, internal and external. In the suburbs and in the city itself lived many tribes who were not Muslims, the largest number was that of Jews. These non-Muslim tribes were constantly at daggers drawn with each other and also were not comfortable with the new arrivals of Muslims. They also had trade relations with Quraiysh of Mecca. The prophet was therefore faced with extremely complex and sensitive ground realities. He decided to make a peace pact with all the concerned tribes and invited their tribal chiefs in the Mosque. An agreement was drafted here to the satisfaction of all the participants which is known in history as Charter of Medina.

Spirit of Islam This agreement started thus: Syed Ameer Ali In the name of Allah the Most Compassionate and Merciful. Page: 146 This agreement is being reached under MohammadS between Muslim and non- Muslim tribes. All Muslim tribes are a party to it irrespective of their tribal origin (whether Quraiysh, Aous, Khizraj etc.) and all non-Muslim tribes belonging to any other religion (Jews, Christians, polytheists etc.) who together will be regarded the other party.

Conditions of the Agreement:

1. During peace and war, all Muslims will behave like one unit and will share all responsibility collectively. 2. No one amongst them will have the right to initiate fight or peace against their Muslim Brethren. 3. The Jews who have allied with the Muslims will be protected against all kinds of humiliations and insults. 4. All non-Muslim tribes will have complete religious freedom akin to the Muslims. 5. All allies and friends of the Jews will have the same protection as enjoyed by the Jews. 6. The criminals will be accountable for their crimes and will be punished. 7. The Jews will not help the enemies of Muslims in case Medina is attacked. 8. All Muslims will hate those who commit a crime, do injustice or break law and order. 9. No one will be allowed to defend or give shelter to a criminal even if he is a relative. 10. Those who are privy to this fact will accept the prophet as a judge in all their mutual disputes. 11. For all those who accept this pact, Medina will be the city of peace and tranquility.

According to this pact or charter, the personality of prophet became the central figure of authority, thus laying down the foundations of the Islamic state in Medina. The three powerful Jewish tribes of Medina Banu Nadyr, Banu Qaryza and Banu Qaynqah accepted this pact openly with free will.

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As a consequence of this charter, the Quraiysh of Mecca also formed an alliance with their likeminded tribes.

The above-mentioned steps taken by Prophet MohammadS immediately after migrating to Medina, paved the way for the establishment of a state based on human virtues and reformation of the society, which had degraded down to the lowest ebb.

Imam Ali ibne Abi TalibR described the conditions prevailing at that time, in one of his sermons:

Nahj-ul-Balagha “The arrival of Divine Guidance had stopped and previous Beacons of A By: Ali Guidance had long been blown away. Ignorance, chaos and unrest was the Sermon : 87 order of the day; disputes, conflicts and battles were on the rise. Followers

of the previous prophets had lost their Divine Path, they were like strayed travelers deep in their slumber, they did not feel the impact of what was really happening amidst their society. Deceit and conceit ruled humanity. The whole world was in the clutches of an enormous pandemonium, which was devouring it. Inwardly humans were engulfed in apprehensions and anxiety, whereas outwardly they lived by the sword. While humanity was

reeling in this crazy atmosphere, the prophet arrived to purify and sanctify humans and their souls. The reforms he initiated show his dignity and his vision. He was actually sent not only for his era but also for all humanity at large.

Spirit of Islam “He was unique in his wisdom and was a great statesman”. Syed Ameer Ali Using his gifted intelligence and political acumen, he established a welfare Islamic State and Islamic society in the Arab world, which was previously full of chaos and ignorance.

The second great danger to the Muslim State after the Jews was that of the hypocrites. This group had members who were prone to mischief and were malicious. Their leader was Abdullah Ibne Ubaii‟, who along with his companions had apparently embraced Islam, but he had secret ties with the Jews and non-believers.

Although the symptoms of this ugly group‟s existence were in the knowledge of the prophet but he purposely tolerated it for quite some time. Outwardly, they were declared members of Muslim community, but prophet knew that some of them had not accepted Islam whole- heartedly and needed time to inculcate the faith. He allowed them the time but stayed on guard against their secret activities as the group as a whole had dangerous designs. He was not oblivious of their scheming brains, and kept a close-eye on their whereabouts and movements. After some time when the State became strong and stable a clear Divine Decree arrived.

Al-Quran They (hypocrites) swear by God that they did not utter (what they are Surah Tauba-9 charged with); but they did utter the word of infidelity and disbelieved after Verse: 74 they had embraced Islam. They intended (planned) what they could not

achieve. They did not seek revenge because God and His apostle (Mohammad) had extended them His grace. ___If they repent it will be good for them, but if they turn back, God will punish them with a painful

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chastisement in this world and the hereafter.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 Before proceeding on the expedition of Tabuk, prophet MohammadS Page: 173 ensured that the centers of hypocrites are made ineffective i.e, the Mosque of Dharar and the house of Swalem.

The Trade Route of the Quraiysh:

The importance of the trade route from Syria to Yemen along the shores of Red Sea can easily be understood, as there was no other road or route linking these two great trading Posts.

The prophet was fully aware of its importance, as he himself had traveled on it as a trader. After strengthening and stabilizing the Islamic State the first thing he did was to sign an agreement with the tribes who were his neighbors and were located close to the trade route. For this purpose:

1. He sent delegations towards all those tribes who lived in west of Medina along the shores of the Red Sea. The delegates negotiated with the tribal chiefs, either to form an alliance with Muslims or to remain impartial (i.e, neither to side with Muslims nor their enemies). The prophet succeeded in drawing many tribes into the alliance especially those who inhabited the areas of Yanba’ and Zul-Ashyra.The Jahynia tribe which lived in a strong fort on the Sea-shores agreed to remain impartial. The allied tribes however soon started embracing Islam. 2. The prophet sent small groups of Mohajirs to keep a watch on the Quraish caravans. They were not supposed to fight or dispute anything but only to keep an eye on the caravans moving on this route. This vigilance helped the prophet a lot.

Contrary to this, the Quraiysh chieftains sent various groups in the southern part of the Oasis, they plundered and looted. They cut down the orchard trees, and poached their produce. Those who were affected by such robberies were worried and complained to the prophet.

As a result, the prophet sent Abdullah Bin Hajsh with eight persons to watch the movement of Quraiysh in the valley Nakhla. It was Rajab 2ndHijri, November 623 AD.

The Change of Direction towards the Ka’ba:

Until now, Muslims offered prayers facing Jerusalem, which was in the north west of Medina, although at that time the city of Jerusalem was nothing but ruins.

Ka’ba in Mecca had all along been the most ancient revered centre of the Monotheists. It had been the first House of God towards which people had prayed since times unknown. Whereas Bait- ul-Maqdas or Temple of Solomon was constructed by prophet SolomonA in 1000 BC. Since then it had been the centre of worship of Jews.

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In 250 AD Bany Khaza’a attacked Mecca and drove out Banu Jarhm and Banu Ishmael from the Ka’ba. Then they turned it into a temple and filled it with idols. Since then Bait-ul-Maqdas became the centre of Muslims as Ka’ba was predominated by polytheists.

The Muslims in Mecca therefore prayed standing at the spot named after AbrahamA, and in doing so faced both Ka’ba and Bait-ul-Maqdas, as both were in North direction. But after Hijrat because Medina was in the north of Mecca, therefore it was not possible in Medina to pray facing both sacred spots.

Tafseer-e-Namuna-1 After migration to Medina, prophet MohammadS continued to pray facing Bait- Summary of ul-Maqdas, but within his heart he had the desire of facing Ka’ba. Sixteen Pages: 348 to 370 months had passed in this situation. The Jews of Medina also taunted him,

saying: “Look at these Muslims who have no centre of their own (towards which they can face while praying).It means we Jews are the righteous ones i.e, our faith is

true”. Tafheem-ul-Quran-1 The Muslims were offended by these remarks while the prophet only knew that Page: 121 this was temporary and the real centre will be Ka’ba, yet he awaited Divine Command.

He waited patiently for his Lord to fulfill his wish, often turning his face towards sky in prayer. He knew Divine Revelation will come. And then his patience was rewarded as the Decree arrived:

Al-Quran Verily We see the turning of your faces towards sky. So We shall, turn you (in Surah Baqarah-2 prayer) towards a Qibla (direction center of prayer) you shall be pleased with. Verses: 144 Turn then your face towards Sacred mosque (Ka’ba), and whenever you are in prayer (in future as well) always turn your face towards it. Verily those who have been given the Book (Jews, Christians etc.) know that it is the truth from

your Lord, and God is most heedless of what they do.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-1 Commentators have written about this change of direction, that this Command Page: 121 came either in Rajab or Sha’aban of 2ndHijri. Ibne Saad narrates that the prophet was at the house of Basheer Bin Barah Bin Masroor, when it became the time of Zuhr prayers. The prophet led the prayers but after offering two

Rakaats as he started the third, the above mentioned verses were revealed. At that time all were facing the north (i.e, Bait-ul-Maqdas or Jerusalem), the Ka’ba being in the south was behind their backs. As soon as the Command arrived the prophet changed direction while still praying. With him all others too changed direction and completed the rest of the two Rakaats facing the direction of Ka’ba.

Almighty God could have decreed the change of Qibla immediately after the Hijrat of prophet MohammadS to Medina. What could have been the Divine wisdom in waiting for some time? Perhaps the wisdom was to show that it was the continuation of the same religion of God from MosesA to JesusA to MohammadS. ___But then, what was the wisdom on breaking that continuity and changing the Qibla. The wisdom in change of Qibla appears to be the announcement of the termination of the prophet-hood and Imamat in the lineage of IsaacA (i.e, Bani Israil); and the grant of the same to the lineage of prophet IshmaelA i.e, to prophet MohammadS. 254

This was because Bani Israil had exceeded all limits and became Zaalim to the extent that they killed their own prophets. ___It may be recalled that while awarding Imamat to prophet AbrahamA, God had decreed that this Godly position will not reach Zaalimin in the progeny of prophet AbrahamA. Quran says:

Al-Quran Remember, when his Lord tried Abraham by a number of commands which he Surah Baqarah-2 fulfilled. God said to him: “I will make you an Imam among people”. Verse: 124 And when Abraham asked: “From my progeny too”? The Lord said: “My pledge does not include Zaalimin (transgressors)”.

Prophet MohammadS was thus discharging his responsibilities in Medina as a prophet and an Imam as ordained by God:

Al-Quran We sent a messenger from among you to convey Our message to you, to Surah Baqarah-2 cleanse you, to teach you the Book and the wisdom, and to teach you what you Verse: 151 did not know.

Al-Quran God favored the faithful by sending an apostle to them from among themselves, Surah Al-i-Imran-3 who recites to them His messages, reforms them, and teaches them the law and Verse: 164 the judgment, for they were clearly in error before.

Al-Quran It is God who raised among the Ummiyin (ignorants) an Apostle from amongst Surah Al-Juma-62 them, who recites his revelations to them, reforms them, and teaches them the Verse: 2 Scripture and the Law, for before him they were clearly in error.

All these four verses of the Quran unambiguously speak about the prophet and his mission. He was sent by Allah to establish a human society in accordance with His Divine Laws. He was to act as a teacher, preacher and guide to instill wisdom and knowledge of Divine Words. The conquering of countries, conflicts, battles, violence and killings were not essentially a part of his mission. Self- defence against aggression was later allowed to him only as a last resort. He was thus God‟s response to the prayer of prophet AbrahamA.

The prophet out of his 23 years prophet-hood, had already spent 13 years in Mecca and one and a half year had passed in Medina, but still had to accomplish a lot as a prophet for all Mankind and a Blessing to all Humanity”. He had to reform the human society, which was totally ignorant and had deviated from the teachings of previous prophets. The way prophet MohammadS preached and conducted himself worked wonders with the residents of Medina. They reformed themselves in earnest as the prophet taught them the Kalima: “There is no god except Allah and Mohammad is His Messenger”.

The very uttering and believing in these words worked like a life changer. The ignorant illiterate strayed Arabs of Medina started behaving like a disciplined people. The society which was prone to murder, violence and chaos, where daughters were buried alive on their birth, where mothers and women were sold, where slaves were treated like animals, was transformed completely by the teachings of the prophet. The various warring tribes developed friendship, rights and duties in

255 society were clearly defined, master and slaves became equals, daughters were regarded as a blessing, mothers were respected and taking care of them was considered as leading to Paradise.

All these great reforms, which took roots in the Islamic society of Medina, were disliked by Jews and the hypocrite Abdullah Ibne Ubaii. They regarded these reforms a blow to their vested interests.

On the other hand the Meccan Quraiysh were totally against the establishment of this new Islamic State. They enjoyed a highly respected status in Arabia due to Ka’ba. The honor and respect of Ka’ba, gave an extraordinary distinction to those who lived in Mecca, chiefly the Quraiysh who were custodians of Ka’ba. Taking advantage of this situation the Quraiysh formed an alliance with various tribes settled between Mecca and Medina. They achieved this alliance using all methods of force and compulsion and wove a net of conspiracies around Muslims. Then they wrote a letter to the leader of the hypocrites Abdullah Ibne Ubaii‟.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 “You people have given shelter to our man. By God either you should kill him Page: 173 or shunt him out of Medina. If you will fail in doing so then we promise you will be attacked and destroyed. Then we will take your women as slaves”. When the prophet learnt about this message, he visited Abdullah Bin Ubaii‟ and said:“will you fight with your brethren”

As the majority in Medina had embraced Islam, Abdullah clearly understood what the prophet meant, hence he did not follow the suggestions given by the Quraiysh. However on the instigation of the Quraiysh the hypocrites and Jews joined hands against Muslims, their alliance made the Jews so bold that they planned the murder of the prophet.

In Mecca the Quraiysh were preparing for an assault, weapons and arms were being collected and sharpened. For the expenses of the battle, they sponsored a great caravan to take large consignment of goods to Syria. This caravan was led by Abu Suffyan. In Sha’aban 2ndHijri (February or March 623 AD) while it was returning with merchandise worth 50,000 Ashrafy (Gold Coins) it met with an accident.

The Murder of Umer Bin Hazrmy:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Karz Bin Jabr Fhary who was the chief of a Bedouin tribe, to please the Page: 176 Quraiysh plundered and looted the grazing grounds of Medina. As those tribes who lived there were allies of Muslims, they complained to the prophet. The

prophet sent a group of twelve riders under the command of Abdullah Bin Jahsh towards Batn-i-Nakhla which is situated between Mecca and Taif

The short History He gave Abdullah a letter and told him to open it after two days and act upon it. of Islam. Abdullah opened the letter after two days, and read the message which said: Page: 60 “Stay in Nakhla and keep an eye on the Quraiysh, and then report”.

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It was a co-incidence that a trading caravan of the Quraiysh passed by with goods from Syria. Abdullah attacked them, killed one named Umer Bin Hazrmy and arrested two others. He returned to Medina with the booty and placed them before the prophet. Prophet regretted his action and said: “I had not permitted you to act in this way”. He also refused to accept the spoils.

The second mistake of Abdullah was that he fought on the last date of month of Rajab in which fighting was forbidden. The man who was killed and those arrested were allies of Quraiysh and were respected persons. This incident infuriated the Arab tribes and the tradition of “Saar” i.e, revenge of blood was invoked.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 Meanwhile the main caravan lead by Abu Suffyan and returning from Syria Pages: 123 to 126 camped at a location, which was within the striking range of Medina. Though traditionally the Muslims had not harmed any caravan on this trade route, yet Abu Suffyan feared a raid. Hence he sent a messenger towards Mecca to bring some help. This messenger was Qasim Bin Umer Bin Ghafry. The manner in which he conveyed this message, instigated the Quraiysh. He said: “O Quraiysh! Take heed of your caravan. The goods, which are with Abu Suffyan, are in danger. MohammadS is ready to raid the caravan. I don‟t think you will be able to catch them, run for the help of Abu Suffyan”.

This message conveyed that Abu Suffyan has been attacked hence needed help. The commotion which arose can easily be imagined. Immediately an army of thousand soldiers was ready with armour and weapons 600 wore armours, and a hundred mounted horses. With this splendor and pomp, they moved out of Mecca. Their manner and furious mindset showed as if they were not out to help Abu Suffyan but to annihilate Medina and its inhabitants.

The prophet‟s spies informed him about this development. The caravan was stationed in the north-west of Medina and the Quraiysh army was approaching from south. Muslims were unprepared for such a great assault. It was a most difficult moment for the newly formed state. The Quraiysh army was expected to follow their ancestral tradition, which was to attack the enemy, to plunder its trade caravan and to kill all those who offered resistance. Contrary to this was the Islamic principle of newly formed state to fight with the opponent army alone if it attacked and to refrain from attacking and fighting with the civilians or the weaker ones (old people. women and children). The prophet awaited the Divine Command, soon the guidance was given:

Al-Quran And when God promised you (victory over) one of the two (enemy) groups, Surah Anfal-8 you wished that the one unarmed should be yours (the trade caravan), but God Verse 7 intended to establish the truth by His words, and to cut off the roots of the infidels (defeat the powerful armed group).

These were testing times for Muslims. Life was a great trial, they had migrated from Mecca empty-handed and were living a life of abject poverty in Medina. Inspite of all this, most of the Muslims were prepared to go out and fight except some who were overtaken by cowardice and fear.

Al-Quran Even as your Lord caused you to go forth from your house (O Mohammad) Surah Anfal-8 with the truth, verily a party of believers were averse to it. They disputed with Verses: 5-6 you about the truth after it had been made manifest, as if they were being 257

driven to death while they stared at it helplessly.

From the revelation it was clear that Muslims should attack the Quraiysh army and not their trade caravan. They were to avoid the temptation and greed of spoils. When the prophet told them about the Divine Will the Muhajrin (refugees) said: “As your Lord is giving the Command please start (the journey).We are with you O prophet!”.

The prophet looked towards Ansar, then Saad Bin Muaz stood up and said: “We have believed in your faith and we have stood witness that whatever you teach is Truth. We heard you and have pledged obedience. Hence whatever Allah says and you have decided, act upon it. We will remain loyal and steadfast in the battle”.

This assurance of the Ansar and Mohajirin settled the matter. Prophet decided to fight the Quraiysh army and spare the caravan. As a result Abu Suffyan succeeded in reaching Mecca safely with the goods.

However the Quraiysh army unaware of this fact marched forward and reached near the spot called Badar. Here they leant about the safe return of Abu Suffyan. On this, the chiefs of Banu A’ad and Bani Zohra said: “Now it is not necessary to fight”.

The commander of the Quraiysh army, Abu Jahl did not agree with them. He was determined to fight. Hence both the said chiefs took their men back to Mecca. The rest marched forward.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 As compared to nearly a thousand soldiers of the Quraiysh there were only 313 Page: 125 Muslims out of which 66 were Mohajir and the rest were Ansar. Only three soldiers had horses, the rest were on foot and 70 had camels. There were only

60 with armours.

But the prophet and his followers moved towards the south-west with full conviction and faith.

Ghazwah and Siriyyah:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Those battles with the non-believers and Quraiysh, which were fought under Page: 216 the command of the prophet are called Ghazwah and those in which he made some other person the commander are called Siriyyah.

All the battles which were fought during the prophet-hood of MohammadS, were defensive. They were fought either to defend Medina against enemy attack or to disrupt and intercept enemy design for imminent aggression.

Badar and Ghazwah Badar:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Badar was the name of a person belonging to the Jahniya tribe. He had dug Page: 196 a well some 60 miles in the south of Medina. Soon it became known as the 258

well of Badar, and as time passed, the whole settlement of the valley got this name.

When the prophet reached near Badar his spies told him that Quraiysh were stationed on the other side of Badar. The prophet ordered: “Make camp here”.

It was the 17th of Ramadan 2ndHijri.Muslims had made their camp on a sandy ground, where there was a well, but the water supply of one well was insufficient. The reason of camping on this site was that Quraiysh had reached before them and had occupied that part of the valley for camping which was on firm ground and had many wells. Thus they had gained a tactical advantage besides their well-equipped warriors numerical superiority of three times in numbers.

But the Divine Command to the prophet was to fight:

Al-Quran Fight those in the way of God who fight you, but do not be aggressor. God does Surah Baqarah-2 Verse: 190 not like aggressors.

Muslims were in bad shape. They had reached the battle-field after a daylong tedious journey, were tired and to top it all, they faced a formidable foe. Those conditions were sufficient to put them under depression, but God showered over them tranquility and they had a sound sleep like which they had never experienced before.

Al-Quran (Remember), a blanketing sleep came over you as a measure of security from Surah Anfal-8 Verse: 11 Him.

But the prophet did not sleep he prayed and praised his Lord the whole night. As he looked towards the enemy camp, he lifted both his hands and pleaded: “O Allah! These (enemies) are Quraiysh who have arrived here with pomp and arrogance. They are here to prove your messenger wrong. O Allah! Now send the help you had promised.

O Allah! If this small group is destroyed then who will worship you”?

In reply to his pleading, his Lord replied:

Al-Quran He gave you the good news of (of victory) only to reassure your hearts, for Surah Anfal-8 Verse: 10 victory comes from God alone. Certainly God is all-mighty and all-wise.

The same night another blessing from God descended in the form of a heavy down-pour. This rain made the Muslims fresh and the tiredness of the dusty travel was washed away. They gathered water by making small ponds, thus stored enough water for their needs. This rain also was blessing in disguise as water made the sandy ground plain and firm.

Contrary to this, the ground where the Quraiysh had camped turned into puddles, and the mud turned the ground slippery. Horses and camels found it difficult to move on the slippery ground. Early in the morning as the sun rose, the view became clear. Then Muslims understood, why they were made to arrive late and to camp on a sandy ground!

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Another Divine blessing was that the Quraiysh faced the rising sun which restricted their vision and proved a hindrance, whereas the Muslims had the sun in their back, and could easily see the movements of the enemy. After the heavy rains, the desert winds started blowing in the direction of the Quraiysh‟s camp, which added to their misery.

The Divine help came yet in another way. Under this depressing environment as the Quraiysh gazed at the Muslim army, it appeared to them much larger in number than it really was. On the other hand when Muslims looked at Quraiysh army, it appeared to them much smaller. The Quraiysh chiefs were alarmed. One of them, Utba‟-bin-Rabiya‟, approached Abul-Bakhtari and said: “By taking up arms (against MohammadS) we have committed a great mistake, because the caravan for whose help we came, has already passed safely”.

Abul Bakhtari replied: “O Utba‟-bin-Rabiya‟, you are a Quraiysh, will you vouch for the safety of all goods of the Caravan”?

Utba‟ agreed and told Bakhtari to take his suggestion to Abu Jahl. As soon as Abu Jahl heard this, he was furious and said: “Utba‟ belongs to the Abdul Munaaf branch of the Quraiysh. Hence he is averse to fighting MohammadS (as MohammadS also belongs to the same branch of Quraiysh). He is a well-wisher of MohammadS because his own son is a follower of MohammadS (Abu Huzyfa Bin Utba‟who accepted Islam). I hereby swear by my gods Laat and Uza, we will definitely attack them and take them as prisoners”. Abu Jahl then ordered the attack.

Meanwhile the prophet too had prepared his defence. He awarded the Main flag to AliA and gave three flags to his three supporting groups i.e, the flag of Mohajrin to Musa‟b Bin Umair, that of Khizrj to Hubab Bin Mandr and of AAous to Saad Bin Muaz.

As both armies came face to face with each other, following the ancient Arab tradition the prophet sent the following message to the enemy: “I don‟t want to start the fight with you O Quraiysh. So you should return back and let me deal with the other Arabs”.

The Quraiysh chief Utba‟ hearing this message said to his colleagues: “The people who will shun this suggestion (of peace) will never see success. O people of Quraiysh! Pay heed to my advice now, you can then oppose me always in the future. O People! Return to Mecca, MohammadS is also one of us. Don‟t reject my advice”.

Abu Jahl who was the commander of the army lost his patience on hearing this address of Utba‟ and scorned him: “Utba‟ is afraid of the swords of Banu Abdul Muttalib, he is a coward”.

Utba‟ Bin Rabiya‟ was an elderly chief of Quraiysh. Hearing this taunting haughty remark, challenging Abu Jahl he said: “soon you will see the person who is a coward”.

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Uttering these words he moved forward along with his brother Shyba and son Walyd. As was customary he challenged the prophet‟s army thus; “O MohammadS! Send our peers to fight us”.

O‟uzR, Mo‟uzR and O‟wnR three Ansar came forward but Utba‟ declared haughtily: “We will fight only with our equals”.

Hearing this the prophet summoned the three Ansar back and sent his uncle HamzaR, his paternal cAousin Ubaida Bin HarithR and his cousin AliA Bin Abu Talib. He instructed them: “The non-believers are bent upon extinguishing Divine Light but Allah will protect it. O Ubaida! You will fight with Utba‟, Hamza with Shyba and Ali with Walyd”.

With these instructions, the three entered battle field.

The life of The combat was bloody and furious as they fought with swords and spears, S Mohammad hand to hand. First AliA killed Walyd, then Hamza over-powered Shyba and Page: 100 killed him. The longest fight was between UbaidaR and Utba‟, both were seriously injured. Then HamzaR and AliR came forward and killed Utba‟.

Then AliA and HamzaR carried the injured UbaidaRinto the Muslim camp. As soon as Ubaida saw the prophet, he impatiently inquired: “Have I been deprived of martyrdom”?

Prophet replied: “No! you are the first martyr of the fight between Truth and Falsehood”.

Hearing this UbaidaR smiled and said: “If Abu TalibR had been alive, he would have seen my act befitting to one of his verses”:

Translation of the verse:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 We will not hand over MohammadS to his enemies until we live. We will Page: 182 protect him by fighting to death, and will forget our wives and sons.

UbaidaR did not survive his wounds and died at either Muffara or Rawaka on the return journey from Badr. Abu Jahl, after the death of his three brave warriors ordered his army for general attack. He announced: “Attack the enemies, kill the Ansar and take the Mohajirin as prisoners”. The Quraiysh moved forward for attack.

The prophet had himself drawn up his fighters in battle array and had ordered them: “Wait patiently for the advancing enemy till they come within reach of your arrows. Then try to stop them with a barrage of arrows and stones. After this use your swords and spears and in the end fight hand to hand. Fight with full conviction, courage, spirit and resolution. Have faith that your Lord is with you and you are on the Truth”.

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But the ground reality was that the enemy out-numbered Muslims three to one. They surrounded prophet‟s fighters from all sides. The prophet at that time stood on a high ground with both arms lifted towards heavens praying to his Lord: “O Lord! Fulfill your Promise of Help”.

Abu BakrR stood guard at the back of the prophet and SaadR Bin Muaz guarded his front. His Lord heard and ordered Angels to descend for his help:

Al-Quran Remember when you implored (O Mohammad) the help of your Lord, and he Surah Anfal-8 answered “Verily I will help you with a thousand angels coming in an Verse: 9 unbroken succession”.

Al-Quran (Remember) when your Lord revealed to the angels, saying: “Verily I am with Surah Anfal-8 you, so make firm those who believe. Soon I will cast terror into the hearts of Verse: 12-13 those who disbelieve. Therefore, strike above their necks, and strike off their fingertips. This is because they opposed God and His messenger (Mohammad), and

whosoever opposes God and His messenger, then verily God is severe in retribution”.

The Badar encounter was a ruthless ferocious one. The swords clanged, the spears hissed and the gusty winds echoed with the slogans of “Allah-o-Akbar”. The wind blew in the direction of the Quraiysh camp. At that point, the prophet took a handful of dust, prayed and threw it towards the enemies. This dust worked like a dust-storm and hit the enemy in their faces and their eyes.

Al-Quran So you did not slay them but God slew them, and you did not throw (the dust) Surah Anfal-8 but God did it, in order that He might test the believers by a gracious trial from Verse: 17 Himself. Verily God is hearing, knowing.

Thus the Divine help arrived and the enemy was routed. They either fled or were killed or were taken prisoners.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Prior to the fight the prophet had instructed his followers: Page: 183 “Those who have arrived with the un-believers, some came under duress and not willingly, hence they should not be killed”. Amongst the reluctant enemy warriors were Abbas Bin Abdul MuttalibR (uncle of the prophet), Aqeel Bin Abu TalibR (cousin of the prophet), Naufal and Abul-A‟as.

Muslims were victorious. They never had thought of fighting such a big battle because their mindset was formed by the peace pacts with variAous Arab tribes and Jews. It is indeed not fair if some try to put the blame of this battle on Muslims. The Meccan Quraiysh travelled 250 miles to attack Medina and even after knowing that their excuse was false as their trade caravan was safe they still insisted on the attack.

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Al-Quran If they incline to peace, incline you also to it and trust in God. Verily He is all- Surah Anfal-8 Verse: 62 hearing, all-knowing. And if they intend to deceive you, then verily God suffices you. It is He who strengthened you with His help and with the believers.

Consequences of Badar:

1. Badar was the crucial turning point which put the materially powerless and insignificant mission of prophet MohammadS, on the road to success. Holy Quran calls this day of battle (the day of distinction of MohammadS and Islam). Al-Quran (The grand blessing) which We sent down to Our servant (Mohammad) on the Surah Anfal-8 day of Furqaan (the day of distinction), the day when the two hosts met (the Verse: 41 battle of Badar).

But at the same time God Almighty also warned Muslims not to become arrogant because of this victory:

Al-Quran Do not be like those who came out from their homes boastfully to be seen of Surah Anfal-8 Verse: 47 men and obstruct others from way of God. Verily God encompasses all they do.

Seerat-ul-Nabi-1 The battle of Badar proved a great disaster for the Quraiysh. Seventy (70) of Pages: 185 to 203 their fighters were killed and seventy four (74) were taken prisoner. Muslims martyred were only fourteen (14).

Among the killed were all the big chiefs of Quraiysh including their supreme leader Abu Jahl, and other chiefs like Utba‟, Sheba, Walid, Abul-Bakhtari, Umaiyya-bin-Khalaf, Zama‟-bin-Aswad, Manbah-bin-Alhaaj and Aa‟s-bin- Hashaam. Their supreme leader and commander Abu Jahl who in his arrogance had come determined to uproot and destroy MohammadS once for all, was brought down from his horse and fatally wounded by two Ansar fighters Ma‟oozR and Ma‟azR. After the battle was over, Abdullah-bin-MasoodR found Abu Jahl lying on ground, alive but badly wounded. He severed his head, and pulling it by his hair brought it to prophet MohammadS. ___Thus was fulfilled the prophecy of Quran:

Al-Quran Does he not know that God sees? Nay (let him beware), if he does not desist Surah Alaq-96 We shall drag him by the forelock. Verse: 14-15

3.After the death of Abu Jahl and Utba‟, Abu Sufyan had the golden opportunity to become chief of Quraiysh, and he grabbed at that opportunity. Thus began the period of supremacy of Bani-Umayya among the Quraiysh of Mecca.

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4.The victory at Badar made the prestige of Islamic state of Medina rise beyond any expectations. It created awe and respect for Muslims among all the tribes from Medina to Mecca. Some of these tribes accepted Islam. 5.The hypocrites and Jews of Medina were alarmed and apprehensive. For the time-being they refrained from their evil designs and conspiracies, but some of the hypocrites who were sitting on the fence of doubt and hesitance, now accepted Islam whole-heartedly. 6.The morale of Muslims soared high, and their belief and confidence in their religion and prophet strengthened more. They realized the strength and truth in the verse (there is no power greater than God the Almighty). 7.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 The news of the defeat of the Quraiysh had preceded them to Mecca. The Page: 188 death of such a number of tribal chiefs was mourned by the whole city. However due to their pride and honor the Quraiysh forbade open mourning and wailing and show of grief. In the battle of Badar three sons of Aswad were killed. Filled with grief he wanted to lament his loss in public, but in view of the Quraiysh decision he obeyed the ban. One day he heard a wailing sound and thought perhaps permission had been granted. So he sent his slave to find out, saying: “Find out if permission has been granted. My heart is bursting with grief and sorrow. Only weeping and wailing can extinguish the flames of my loss”. The slave went out to investigate and returned with the answer that a woman is weeping on the loss of her camel. Hearing this, Aswad uttered the following lines: “Do you weep on losing your camel; don‟t cry. If you do want to weep then weep on the death of sons Haris and Aqyl, who were the leaders of the lions”.

It is worth noting here that the religion of God (Islam), views this issue of wailing from an angle just opposite to that of Quraiysh of Mecca. Weeping and crying to lighten the burden of grief had been the way of prophets of God. Prophet JacobA wept for years at the loss of his son JosephA. Even prophet MohammadS wept on many occasions as narrated by authentic traditions.

It is unfortunate that some weak and unauthentic traditions have found their way in Islamic literature, which has sadly promoted the way of Quraiysh of Mecca and not the way of prophet MohammadS. These weak traditions clearly conflict with holy Quran and should be rejected.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 One incident after Badar is worth mentioning. A person named Umair Bin Page: 188 Wahab, was a friend of Safwaan Bin Umayya, and a bitter enemy of Islam. Both these friends conspired to kill the prophet; while they were at a place called Hujr. The son of Umair was a war prisoner at Medina. He visited Medina to get his son freed by paying ransom.

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Umer FarooqR saw him and brought him before the prophet who asked him: “Why have you come to Medina”? He replied: “I have come to get my son‟s freedom”. At this the prophet inquired: “Why have you brought a sword with you”? He was at a loss to answer this question. Sensing it, the prophet pointing towards the sword said: “Did you and Safwaan not plan at Hujr to kill me”? He was shocked at this and said: “O Mohammad! you are definitely the Messenger of Allah. By god, besides me and Safwaan no-one knew about this matter”. The Quraiysh were outraged by the news of Umair‟s conversion to Islam. It is stated that Umair returned to Mecca, and took up the task of preaching Islam. He succeeded in converting a large number of non-believers into believers.

9. In the battle-field of Badar an ill-armed force of 313 Muslims with Divine Help, defeated an army of a thousand warriors. Maulana Shibly writes that the real hero of Badar was AliAbin Abu Talib, who fought ferociously and killed 30 soldiers. This courage and bravery was a result of his faith which he had inherited directly from the holy prophet.

Jehad:

The Meccan period of prophet-hood of prophet MohammadS was no doubt the most trying and most difficult period, but throughout these 13 years no situation of armed conflict came up. That is why no Divine Command was given to Muslims to fight in the way of God (Jehad). But after prophet migrated to Medina, he was subjected to aggression and it became necessary for him to fight in self-defense. Revelations then started descending permitting Muslims to fight: Al-Quran Strive (fight) in the way of God as you ought to strive. Surah Al-Hajj-22 Verse: 78

Al-Quran And fight with them till there is no mischief. Surah Anfal-8 Verse: 39

Al-Quran And fight with them until there is no (more) mischief, and the religion is only Surah Baqarah-2 for Allah. But if they desist, then there should be no hostility save against the Verse: 193 oppressors.

The above-mentioned verses revealed to the prophet clearly indicate, that from amongst mankind Allah has chosen those who believe in Him, on His Messengers, apostles and the holy Books. These chosen people are directed to rise against the cruelty, injustice and chaos created by the non-believers and polytheists. They are ordered to fight them continuously until the root of evil is rooted out; and the Pure Faith of Allah reigns supreme. But they have to be cautiAous:

Al-Quran And fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you; but do not Surah Baqarah-2 Verse: 190 the aggressor, for verily Allah does not love aggressors.

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Additionally God Almighty instructed them:

Al-Quran They alone are (true) believers who believe in Allah and His messenger then Surah Hujrat-49 never doubt again, and do Jehad (strive) with their wealth and their lives in the Verse: 15 way of Allah. They are the truthful (Sadiqun).

Al-Quran O you who believe, shall I show you a bargain, which will deliver you from a Surah Al-Saff-61 painful chastisement. (It is that) you should believe in Allah and His Verse: 10-11 messenger, and strive (Jehad) in the way of Allah with your possessions and yourselves. That is better for you, if you but knew.

Al-Quran Say to the desert Arabs who stayed behind (at the time of journey to Surah Al-Fath-48 Hudaybiya): “you will be called against a people of mighty prowess. You will Verse: 16 fight against them until they surrender. If you obey, then He will give you a goodly reward; but if you turn back, as you had done before, He will punish you with a grievous chastisement.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 Fighting in the cause of God and observing the rules ordained by God is called Page: 145 Jehad. This is the legitimate fight for the believers, it is their duty, and apart from this, fighting is not permissible for any other purpose”.

But these verses cannot be taken as a clean chit for committing aggression against any adversary. It must be kept in mind that the very nature of Islam being “Peaceful”, these verses only permit Muslims to defend themselves against aggression; and this defense is required to be not half- hearted, but with full vigor and full love of God.

The very fact that during the 13 years of prophet-hood in Mecca, no revelation descended upon prophet allowing armed Jehad although Muslims faced worst kind of torture and oppression. This was not because Muslims were not in a position to fight in Mecca but because Meccan Quraiysh did not commit any armed aggression against them. The revelation, which permitted Jehad, descended in Medina when Prophet MohammadS was surrounded with enemies bent upon annihilating him and his mission.

During his struggle in Mecca God had command prophet to be patient and firm and do Jihad-e- Kabeer ( ):

Al-Quran So do not yield to infidels and do Jehad-e-Kabeer ( ) against them (i.e, Surah Furqan-25 Verse: 52 the greatest kind of Jehad by following Quran and exercising control on your souls).

We have seen on previous pages that during the13 years of his prophet-hood in Mecca the prophet struggled continuously against moral crimes and social evils against a people who were engulfed in moral chaos, infidelity, unbelief and paganism. To reform such a society was the greatest crusade. He could not succeed in Mecca, where his own life was endangered and had to migrate to Medina. After migration, his major efforts were to establish an environment of peaceful coexistence. His mission was not to fight and force people to convert, but to spread the message of God and reform society: 266

Al-Quran Verily God enjoins justice, doing good to others and giving to kindred; and Surah Nahl-16 forbids lewdness, evil and rebellions. He exhorts you in order that you may Verse: 90 take heed

Had Prophet MohammadS been allowed some time to peace-fully pursue his mission, the entire environment would have experienced a glorious era of peace. But this did not happen. Within a period of two years of his migration, the Quraiysh of Mecca invaded Medina to destroy and annihilate the prophet and his mission. It was then that God permitted Jehad with arms, and prophet took up arms and fought in self-defense. This was a smaller Jehad, the bigger Jehad was the one which prophet did in Mecca before migration (Jehad-e-Kabeera). This Jehad was conducted for 13 years and meant inculcating discipline and self-control among believers.

But when fighting was forced upon prophet and he had to do Jehad with arms, then the command from the Lord was to fight without fear of life and possessions and without any sympathetic considerations for the enemy fighters:

Al-Quran For anyone who turns his back on that day (of battle) except to maneuver or Surah Anfal-8 rally to his side, will bring the wrath of God on himself and have hell as abode. Verse: 16

Al-Quran O believers, when you face an enemy army, stand form, and think of God a Surah Anfal-8 great deal,that you may be blessed with success. Verse: 45

Al-Quran And slay them wherever you find them, and drive them out from where they Surah Baqarah-2 drove you out, for persecution is more severe than slaughter. But do not fight Verse: 191 with them near the sacred Masjid until they fight with you in it; but if they do fight you, slay them, for such is the recompense of the disbelievers.

Al-Quran Prepare against them whatever arms and cavalry you can muster, that you may Surah Anfal-8 strike terror in the hearts of the enemies of God and your enemies, and others Verse: 60-62 besides them, whom you do not know but God knows them. Whatever you spend in the way of God will be paid back to you in full, and no wrong will be done to you. But if they are inclined to peace, make pace with them and have trust in God. If

they try to cheat you, God is surely sufficient for you. It is He who has strengthened you with His help and with believers.

Al-Quran O you who believe, fear God and seek the means of approach to Him, and Surah Al-Maida-5 strive hard (Jehad) in His way, that haply you may succeed.

Verse: 35

Nahaj-al-Balagha The Jehad i.e, fighting by Allah‟s Command, to obstruct the advance of chaos, AliA evil, dissension and violence, is the best way to seek closeness to God.

Closeness to God calls for upholding monotheism, discarding polytheism and idol worship, and establishing a collective system for enacting the Divine Laws for justice, fairness and equality.

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This is the sacred trust, which the Lord wished to be established through His prophet MohammadS, which started with the Greater Jehad (Jehad-e-Kabeer) and ended with smaller Jehad (armed struggle).

Spoils of war (Anfal):

Al-Quran They ask you (O Mohammad) about Anfal. Say the Anfal belongs to God and Surah Anfal-8 the Messenger. So fear God and set the matters right among yourselves, and Verse: 1 obey God and His messenger, if you are believers.

The battle of Badr was the first battle fought by Muslims. After their victory Muslims captured the war-booty, and individuals held it with them as was customary with Arabs.

Prior to Islam when Arabs fought battles, it was customary that with the first sign of the enemy defeat, the victorious soldiers started plundering and whatever came in ones hand became his possession. This was an unfair and dangerous practice because instead of pursuing the fleeing soldiers if the victorious soldiers got involved in collecting the spoils of the battle and the retreating army turned back, then the tables could be turned.

On the other hand, the distribution of the war spoils was not just, and could shatter the discipline of the fighters.

A similar situation arose in Badar. After their victory, Muslims started collecting the spoils and claimed it to be their possession. This became a cause of discord as they got divided into three groups:

1. One group was of those fighters who pursued the retreating enemy and then returned assured of their victory. 2. The second group was of those faithfuls who did not leave the prophet unprotected for a single moment. 3. The third group was of those who sensing victory, collected the spoils and declared them as their own.

The situation got tense. Many words were exchanged and a quarrel ensued. The first and second group demanded a share but those who had it in possession, were not willing to part with it.

War spoils and its possession was the weakness of Arab psyche. Prophet MohammadS was waiting for Divine Guidance which was revealed as Verse No.1 of Surah Anfal (Anfal itself means spoils of war). This verse, brought an end to the conflict forever.

The revelation declared that spoils of war belong only to God and His Messenger. Muslims also realized their mistake as the victory only came to them as a blessing from God. How could they be owners of the spoils? It solely belonged to God and the prophet.

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They bowed their heads in submission and placed before the prophet whatever they had looted. Now it was left solely on the discretion of the prophet how to dispose off the spoils.

On reaching Medina the prophet distributed the spoils equally among those who had accompanied him to Badar and those who were left behind in Medina. He himself also took the same share.

This first verse of Surah Anfal was perhaps revealed to discipline the believers about the spoils of war. Subsequent revelation of verses laid down a clear mode of distribution:

Al-Quran And know you (O believers) that whatever you acquire (Ghanimtum ), a Surah Anfal: 8 fifth of it is for God, and for his messenger and for his near relatives, and the Verse: 41 orphans, and the needy, and the way farer, if you believe in God and in that which We sent down to our servant (Mohammad) on the Day of Distinction ( ), the day when the two hosts met (the battle of Badar). Verily God has power over all things

Prophet said: “O Muslims! All what you acquire is yours except the Khums (it‟s one-fifth part which belongs to God and the prophet).

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 It means that with the permission of the prophet half of Khums would be spent Pages: 145-146 for the welfare and stability of the faith. The other half is to be distributed amongst the needy relatives (here it means Saadat of Bani Hashim and Bani Muttalib). According to Maulana Maududy, during the times of the first four Caliphs Khums was distributed in accordance with prophet‟s above Sunnah.

While considering applicapability of Khums it must be kept in mind that the above verse (8:41) uses the word Ghanimtum (which means income from all kinds of sources including spoils.

Fasal-ul-Khitab-3 Whatever may be the limits of Ghanimat, from the above Quranic verse it is Page: 433 clear that one-fifth part of it has to be of Khums. It is a duty of every believer to give this Khums in the name of Allah and his prophet, for the purpose

mentioned in the verse. Why a portion of Khums is only for Prophet‟s relatives?.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 The important point is that the prophet forbade the taking of Zakaat for himself Page: 205 and his relatives. So much so that he did not allow them to take any compensation even for collecting and distributing it.

. Tafseer-e-Namuna-2 Zakaat is that fund which is an essential pillar for running an Islamic state. It Pages: 145-151 needs to be spent for the same purpose.

Prophet‟s forbidding his relatives not to take anything from Zakaat was for the purpose of setting up a tradition that this fund may not be spent by anyone on his own person or his relatives, and that no one may be able to accuse prophet for unjust preference for his relatives because of special treatment as desired by God. 269

Moreover by forbidding them to take Zakaat and allowing them to take Khums, Allah did not make the family of the prophet dependent on the state funds.

The sixth Imam, Jaffar Sadiq says: “When Allah made Zakaat Haraam for us then He allowed Khums for us. This is the reason Zakaat is Haraam and Khums is Halaal for us”.

Prisoners of War:

Surah When you fight the disbelievers, smite their necks until you have routed them. Mohammad47 Then hold them in bondage. Thereafter either free them as a favor or after Verse: 4 taking a ransom, after the battle ends. Had God wished He would certainly had

exacted retribution from them; but He wished to test some of you through some others. He will never allow the deeds of those who are slain in the cause of God, to go waste.

Al-Quran It is not befitting for a prophet that he should have captives until there has been Surah Anfal-8 a decisive fight. (Beware) you desire the riches of this world while God desires Verse: 67-71 hereafter (for you), and God is mighty wise.  Had it not been for an ordinance from God decreed in advance, surely a great chastisement would have afflicted you for what you took. (spoils and ransom of battle of Badar).  Eat you then of what you took in war, lawful and good, and fear God. Verily God is oft-forgiving and merciful.  Prophet, say to the captives who are in your hands: “If God knows any good in your hearts He will give you better than what has been taken away from you, and He will forgive you. Verily God is oft-forgiving, merciful”.  If they intend to be unfaithful to you, then they have been unfaithful to God before. So He gave you power over them. Verily God is all-powerful, all wise.

These verses of Surah Mohammad and Surah Anfal lay down the guidelines for handling the war prisoners. How did prophet MohammadS follow these guidelines after the battle of Badar can be summarized as under:

1. The goal of war was to break the strength of the enemy i.e, to continue fighting until the enemy lost the power to fight back. Forgetting this goal and starting the taking of prisoners was forbidden. But the Muslims disobeyed, as soon as the enemy started retreating, in the greed of earning ransom they started capturing and chaining the defeated soldiers. They did not realize that the fight had not yet ended, and the retreating soldiers could turn back and attack them. Verse no. 68 of Surah Anfal relates to this very matter of their disobedience. But as the permission to take ransom from captives had been revealed to prophet before the battle, God forgave them. Thus, the Muslims escaped the Wrath of Allah.

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2. In the fourth verse of Surah Mohammad, it is also said that Muslims should treat captives with kindness. That is why they were permitted to set the captives free after taking ransom or even without it. This meant that the captives were not supposed to be killed except those who were diehard dangerous enemies. Verse 8:71 leaves this matter at the discretion of the prophet. In accordance to this decree, out of the 76 prisoners of Badr, only two were killed due to their apostasy and extreme enmity. They were Uqba Bin Maueet and Nadr Bin al-Haris. The rest were set free on ransom. Those who were unable to pay ransom but were literate, they were set free on the condition that they will each teach 20 Muslim children, in return of their freedom. 3. Generosity toward prisoners was shown by Prophet MohammadS by his following deeds: (a). They should be set free without paying ransom. (b). So long as the prisoners remain under custody in Medina, they should be provided shelter, food, clothes and medical help and should be treated well. (c).To avoid long imprisonment if any prisoner wished, he could be given to any Muslim individual with the condition that he should be treated fairly and justly as a slave. The relaxation of setting the prisoners free without ransom was specifically for those who looked likely to accept Islam, or those who were not hostile to Islam.

The prophet acting on the revealed guidelines about the prisoners of war, thus set an example to be followed after him. The first four Caliphs followed the same Sunnah of the prophet.

Following the verses of Surah Mohammad and Surah Anfal those who could pay the ransom were freed after receiving it. The rich prisoners paid 4000 Dirham, others paid 1000 Dirham. Amongst those captives were such important Meccan Quraiysh personalities as Abbas Bin Abdul MuttalibR, Naufal Bin Al-HarisR, Aqeel Bin Abu TalibR and Abul-A‟as Bin Rabii‟R. After gaining freedom all captives returned to Mecca. The first three embraced Islam before leaving Medina and the fourth converted after his return to Mecca.

It is written in the book of Seerat that the kind and gentle behavior of the prophet and his followers impressed the captives, soon many accepted Islam.

Spirit of Islam Only two prisoners out of 76 were killed because they were mortal enemies of Syed Amer Ali Page: 151 Muslims. They were Uqba-bin-Muee‟t and Nadr Bin Haris.

Status of Muslims in Medina and outside:

Al-Quran  Verily those who believed, migrated, and strived hard in the way of God Surah Anfal-8 with their possessions and lives, and those who gave them shelter and helped Verses: 72 to 75 them, are guardians of one another.  And those who believed but did not migrate, you have nothing to do with their guardianship till they migrate. If they seek help from you (in matter of) religion, then it is incumbent upon you to help them, except against a people between whom and you, there is a covenant. 271

 And those who disbelieve, some of them are the guardians of others. Unless you do the same, there will be great mischief and discord on earth.  And those who believed and migrated and strived hard in the way of God, along with those who gave them shelter and helped them, are true believers. For them is forgiveness and honorable provisions.  And those who believed afterwards, then migrated and strived hard along with you, they are of you. But the blood relations are nearer to one another in the Book of God. Verily God knows everything.

 These verses speak of different groups of believers in relation to the time of migration of prophet to Medina. ___Those who first migrated from Mecca and those who provided them shelter in Medina, they were made guardians of each other.  Those who believed but did mot migrate from Mecca, they could not share this guardianship until they migrated. But if they sought help, the believers from Medina were required to help them, provided it did not violate any agreements made earlier.  Those who accepted Islam later and then migrated to Medina, their blood relationship with the earlier migrants was given due recognition.  As regards the unbelievers, who although belonged to different tribes but joined hands together and became guardians of each other, Muslims were advised to do the same otherwise they would be engulfed in a great discord and mischief.

2ndHijri and its Important Events: (i).Fasting:

Al-Quran O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those Surah Baqarah-2 before you, so that you may safeguard yourselves with full awareness of Verses: 183-185 Divine laws.

(It is) for a fixed number of days, but whoever among you is sick or on a journey, then (it may be completed by the same) number of other days; and those who find it hard to do it should effect a redemption by feeding a poor man, and whosever of his own accord does good, it is better for him; and that you fast is better for you, if you only knew. The month of Ramadan is that in which the Quran was sent down, a guidance

for mankind, with clear proofs of guidance and the criterion of right and wrong. So whosoever of you is present in the month, shall fast in it; and whoever is sick or on a journey (shall fast) the same number of other days. God desires ease for you. He does not desire hardship for you. (God desires) that you should complete the prescribed number (of days), and that you should glorify God for having guided you, and that you may thank Him.

Al-Quran It is made lawful to you to lie with your wives on the nights of the fast. They Surah Baqarah-2 are a garment for you and you are a garment for them. God knows that you Verses: 187 were cheating yourselves, so He has turned in mercy towards you and relieved you. So now, have sexual intercourse with them and seek what God has

prescribed for you, and eat and drink until the whiteness of the day becomes 272

distinct from the blackness of the night at dawn. Thereafter complete the fast

until night (Layl ). Do not have sexual intercourse with your wives while you are in spiritual retreat in the mosques. These are the limits prescribed by God, therefore do not go near them. Thus does God make His signs clear for mankind so that they may safeguard themselves.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-1 The above mentioned verses 183-184 of Surah Al-Baqarah were the initial Page: 142 Command for Fasting. They were revealed prior to Badar Battle. The rest 185- 187 were revealed a year afterwards, but as they covered the same subject,

were included in the Surah. Thus the orders for fasting were revealed gradually.

Spirit of Islam Here it can be said briefly that from the various sayings of prophet, Syed Ameer Ali understanding their true spirit, the scholars of Fiqah (Islamic jurisprudence) Page: 286 have declared unanimously that restraining from eating and drinking, is as essential as to refrain from mean and ignoble thoughts.

There is a saying of Imam Jaffar SadiqA: “Torah was revealed on 6thRamadan, Bible on 12th, Zabur on 18th and Quran in Majestic Night of Ramadan( )”.

In the month of Sha’aban 2ndHijri, in order to explain the glory of Ramadan, prophet spoke to believers to welcome Ramadan, he said: “O people! That month is approaching which has in it Allah‟s Blessings, Beneficence, Mercy and Kindness. This month is far more gracious than all other months. Its days are better than the days of other months, its nights are better than other nights, its hours are better than other hours and its moments are better than other moments. This is a month in which Allah invites you to be His guest. Your breathing is like an act of praising Allah, your sleep is regarded as worship and your prayers are accepted by Allah. Unfortunate is the person who fails to avail such Divine rewards. During this month refrain from abuse and sinful words, close your eyes to sinful sights and don‟t even pay attention to hear foul words”.

The Quran says:

Al-Quran “O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those Surah Baqarah-2 before you, so that you may safeguard yourselves with full awareness of Divine Verse: 183 laws”.

th Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Prior to Islam, Quraiysh used to fast on 10 Ashura.On that particular day the Maulana Shibly Ka’ba’s cover was changed. The prophet also used to fast on that day. When he Page: 75 migrated to Medina, he saw that Jews also fasted on that particular day, as it was required by the Shariah of prophet MosesA. In 2ndHijri when fasting decree

arrived for the month of Ramadan, then the fast of Ashura became optional (i.e, one who wished could do so). th Seerat-un-Nabi-1 In 9 Hijri, people asked the prophet: Maulana Shibly “O prophet! The Jews respect 10th Ashura. They fast on this day”. Page: 76 Prophet replied: “From next year I will not fast on 10thMoharram”. 273

But the occasion did not arrive as the prophet died before the next Moharram

arrived.

R Taarikh Ahmadi It is narrated by Abdullah Bin Masood hat he was eating on Ashura when Page: 34 Ash‟as visited him and seeing him eating inquired: “Today is Ashura and you are eating”? Ibne MasoodR replied: “Till the time that Ramadan fasting was made mandatory, we fasted on Ashura, but after it, Ashura fasting was no more mandatory but optional. Come and have food with me”.

History tells us that against the Sunnah of the prophet the Ashura fast was again made mandatory during the rule of Banu Ummiya.

(ii).Eid-ul-Fitr and Fitra:

After the victory at Badr when the Muslims returned to Medina the month of Ramadan was ending, only eight nights were left. It was the year 2 Hijri. The prophet gave a sermon on 1stShawwal (on Eid-ul-Fitr) and then spoke about the virtues and merits of alms (Fitra). Prophet urged his followers to avail this divine offer and give Fitra to the needy and the poor, as a gift of Eid. In the Sunnah of the prophet it is obligatory for all Muslims who can afford it.

At the end of the month of Ramadan, each head of family has to work out the amount of Fitra and to give it to the needy either the same night or after Eid prayers.

A congregation for Eid prayers was arranged in an open ground outside the city. The Imamat (leading the prayer) was done by the prophet.

(iii). The Arrival of AyeshaR inProphet‟s House:

After the Eid-ul-Fitr, in the same month of Shawwal, prophet MohammadS took his bride AyeshaR from her father‟s house to his own. She was prophet‟s third wife after KhadijaR and SaudaR. For her the prophet got a room (Hujra) constructed adjacent to that of SaudaR. She was either 11 or 13 years of age when she moved in.

(iv). Marriage of AliA and FatimaA (1stZil-Hajj 2ndHijri):

Ahl-e-Bait Athar According to the scholars of the Ahl-e-Bait, FatimaA the daughter of the Page: 56 prophet was born in Mecca four years after her father‟s prophet-hood. The date they give is 20thJamad-ul-Saniyear, 614 AD.

In 2ndHijri her age was nearly 12 years. Arabs used to marry their daughters in this age. About FatimaA, AyeshaR (the prophet‟s wife) says: “I have not seen any other person resembling more with the prophet than FatimaA, specially in manners and speech. I also have not seen anyone else as truthful as FatimaA”.

FatimaA‟s personality was indeed a result of her father and mother‟s upbringing. 274

The prophet was in search of a worthy husband for his exemplary daughter. Anus Bin MalikR states, the prophet was waiting for his Lord‟s recommendation. He further says:

Reference: “One day I was sitting with the prophet, when he received revelation. He then Madaraj-ul-Nabuwa told me: “O Anus!, just now Angel Gabriel came to me and conveyed the Maujam-ul-Kabyr Divine Decree that I should marry off Fatima to Ali”. Tareekh-e-Ahmadi R Page: 36-37 This Hadith is further authenticated by the narration of Abdullah Ibne Masood who heard prophet saying: “Allah has ordered me to wed Fatima with Ali”. Allah and the prophet both were pleased on this match but it was also necessary to find out the consent of AliA and FatimaA.

AliA was then 24 years old and lived near the prophet‟s hAouse with his mother Fatima Binte AsadR. His elder brother AqeelR was in Mecca and JaffarR was in Ethiopia. He worked as a laborer for sustenance. Hence despite his wish AliA did not feel confident to ask for FatimaA‟s hand.

It is said that in this matter both Abu BakrR and UsmanR came forward and suggested to AliR to meet the prophet and ask for FatimaR‟s hand personally.

The Life of On the insistence of both these elders, AliR visited the prophet and stood S Mohammad silently by his side. Seeing him the prophet was pleased and inquired: Page: 111 “O Ali! I love you more than anyone else. Tell me why you came”? AliA said hesitantly: “O Messenger of Allah! I have come to ask the hand of your daughter Fatima, in marriage to me”. Maulana Shibly says, then the prophet asked his daughter about AliA‟s proposal. She kept silent, which was taken as her consent.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 FatimaA knew the feelings of AliA towards her. She also was aware that many Page: 204 respectful wealthy persons amongst the Quraiysh also wished to marry her. But like her mother KhadijaR, she rejected all others and consented to marry a man who was poor but was the most courageous and brave amongst the Arabs.

Being satisfied with his daughter‟s consent, the prophet turned towards AliR and inquired: “What do you have for the wedding”?

AliA said: “O prophet! Nothing else but a sword and an armour”.

The prophet said: “The sword is your need in Jehad. The armour is not necessary for such a brave soldier as you are, sosell it”. AliA obeyed and sold his armour. UsmanR bought it and after AliA‟s marriage presented it to him, saying: “This is your wedding gift from me”. AliA brought the cash received from UsmanR to the prophet who divided the amount into two equal shares, giving one share to Bilal he said: “Arrange for the Valima feast”. (Valima is the function held by bride-groom after the wedding). 275

He gave the second share to Abu BakrR and said: “Buy a new dress for Fatima, and other objects needed in a home”.

Abu BakrR when counted the money found it 63 Dirham, from it he bought:

Munaqb 1.One white Dress. Shehr-e-Ashoob-3 2. Maqna’ (head dress). Page: 353 3. A black Shawl made in Khyber. 4. One Cot. 5. A Quilt filled with sheep wool, the other filled with date leaves. 6. A pillow made from goat skin. 7. One mat. 8. A grinding stone. 9. A bowl of copper. 10. a leather water bag. 11. A large tray. 12. A bowl for drinking milk. 13. A vase for keeping water. 14. A woolen curtain. 15. A pot. 16. An earthen Jar. 17. Two earthen goblets. 18. A mat of hide for the floor. 19. A cloak.

When all these things of FatimaA‟s dowry were brought before the prophet, tears came in his eyes and he prayed: “O Allah! Bless this couple whose possessions are mostly clay utensils”.

What were the arrangements made by the prophet on the wedding of his loving daughter? Imam Ahmed Bin Humbal has described the details of the wedding. Summarizing it briefly:

Masnud It is narrated by Anus Bin MalikR that the prophet ordered me: Ahmed Bin Jumbal “Call Abu BakrR, Umer FarooqR, TalhaR, ZubayrR etc, and the same number of Referred by: Ansar”. Siraj-ul-Mubeen Pages: 71-72 I went and brought them.When they came and sat down, then the prophet gave the sermon: “All praise for Allah who is Praise-worthy. He Created mankind with His Powers, and through His Commands taught them manners, and gave them respect through His Religion, and blessed them with nobility and reverence through MohammadS His Messenger. The Lord ordained the mutual relationship of male and female as a source of growth of humans, and made it mandatory for all. He has power over everything. He ordered me that I should wed Fatima with Ali. I make you all witness that I am marrying Fatima with Ali with a Mehar (payable amount) of Four Hundred Masha of silver. If Ali agrees then this Sunnah will be followed by all believers in future. May Allah increase their numbers from these two blessed souls, and Bless them in their mutual relations and their piety. May Allah bless virtues in their lineage, and make their offsprings, source of

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wisdom and bearers of keys of kindness. I pray to Allah for your forgiveness and mine”. Saying this the prophet smiled and asked AliA: “Do you agree on this marriage”? In reply AliA said: “Yes I agree”. AliA then fell down in prostration before his Lord. When he rose, the prophet prayed for him: “May God bless you with prosperity and give you many virtuous offsprings”. Anus Bin MalikR says: “Allah no doubt gave them virtuous offsprings. They followed the chaste, ethical, righteous path of their parents. They were all a model of love, affection and kindness.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Maulana Shibly writes, until then AliA resided with the prophet, but he needed Page: 204 a separate home now after his marriage.

Harsa Bin Nauman AnsariR had many houses, and he had previously offered them to the prophet. When he heard about the need of AliA he immediately rushed to the prophet and beseeched: “Whatever I have, is for Allah and His prophet. By God if you were to live in one of my houses, it would give more pleasure than if I had lived there myself”.

Thus he offered one of his houses to AliA. His offer was accepted, and FatimaA came to this house after her wedding. The prophet visited her in her new home. First he asked permission to enter at the door, and then entered. He asked for a bowl of water. He dipped his hands into it and then sprinkled the water on the arms and chest of both AliA and FatimaA and declared:

“O daughter! I have wed you to the best man of the family”.

NOTE: This detail is from books Tabqaat-e-Ibn-e-Sa’d and Ashaba).

(v). The Home of AliA and FatimaA:

Until the start of3rdHijri, AliA and FatimaA had no personal house. The prophet wanted his daughter whom he loved deeply to live somewhere near him, so that while visiting his wives he could also visit her. Hence he offered a plot to FatimaA, near the houses of SaudaR and AyshaR. AliA constructed his house there. Afterwards as rooms were built adjacent to the Mosque for other wives of the prophet, this house of FatimaA came in between the various houses of wives of prophet. Those houses were constructed in such a manner that they all shared a common courtyard; secondly, all had their doors opening in the mosque.

Initially some houses of Mohajirs and Ansar were also constructed adjacent to the mosque and had doors opening into the mosque. But afterwards keeping the sanctity of the mosque in mind, with the will of Allah, all those doors which opened in the mosque were closed.

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However the doors of the prophet‟s wives and that of FatimaA remained open. These houses existed until the extension of mosque. When the mosque was extended, these houses were demolished during the reign of Banu Umayya.

(vi). HaffsaR:

The same year in Sha’aban 3rdHijri the prophet married the widowed daughter of Umer FarooqR. Her husband was martyred in Ghazwah Badar. Umer FarooqR regarded this as a great honor .

. (vii). Birth of HassanA:

On 15thRamadan 3rdHijri, AliA and FatimaA had their first son. The prophet named him HassanA, and gave the feast of Aqiqa on the seventh day. A sheep was slaughtered and infant‟s head was shaved. The shaved hair were weighed against silver, which was distributed among poor. It was the first ceremony of Aqiqa held in Medina.

(viii). ZainabR, RuqqyaR and Umm-e-KulsoomR:

Many historians have written that apart from FatimaA, the prophet had three other daughters (ZainabR, RuqqyaR and Umm-e-KulsoomR). This opinion however is contested by many research scholars, (see details in the same chapter under the title of offsprings of the prophet).

The real fact is that these three girls were in the guardianship of KhadijaR, but were not her real daughters. According to the Arab tradition, they were called the daughters of MohammadS and KhadijaR and both loved them. They were born before MohammadS‟s prophethood and embraced Islam immediately after KhadijaR did so. They showed full faith in the prophet. They had been married prior to prophet-hood.

ZainabR was married to KhadijaR‟s nephew (her sister Khaula‟s son) Abu-al-Aas Ibne Rabbya, the other two were married to Abu Lahb‟s two sons Atba and Atyba.

(ix). RuqqyaR:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 After MohammadS announced prophet-hood, Abu-Lahb who was a great enemy Page: 270 of Islam, asked his sons to divorce their wives. After the divorce, the prophet married RuqqyaR to UsmanR. She migrated with UsmanR to Ethiopia and then came to Medina with him. Thus she was the first Muslim woman to migrate twice. After reaching Medina she fell ill and died. She had a son called Abdullah. She died when the prophet was at Badar for the battle, on the same day when Zayd Bin HarsaR came to Medina with the news of Badar victory.

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(x). Umm-e-KulsoomR:

In the month of Jamad-ul-Saani 3rd Hijri, on the wish of UsmanR, the prophet married off Umm- e-Kulsoom to him. She too lived for a short period and died in Sha’aban 9thHijri.

(xi). ZainabR:

ZainabR was eldest amongst her sisters. Her husband Abu-al-Aas was a prominent Quraiysh merchant, who fought in the battle of Badar against Muslims and was taken prisoner. When he was released after payment of Fidya and before he left for Mecca, the prophet told him:

“Abu-al-Aas send ZainabR to Medina”.

Surah Baqarah-2 Do not marry your daughters to idolaters until they accept the faith Verse: 221

As commanded by the above verse a Muslim woman could not live with a non-Muslim. Abu-al- Aas promised before leaving for Mecca and sent ZainabR to the prophet, but her daughter Umama remained with her father. ZainabR lived with the prophet in Medina. It happened in the beginning of the 3rdHijri.But a few years after this i.e, Jamad-ul-Awwal 6thHijri, Abu-ul-Aas was captured along with his goods in a skirmish. On the recommendation of ZainabR, he was set free and his goods too were returned. This treatment influenced him. After he returned to Mecca, he gave back the security deposits of the people and returned the goods to their owners. Then along with his daughter reached Medina and embraced Islam.

Seetrat-un-Nabi-2 ZainabR had left her husband when he was a non-believer, and so they were Page: 268 separated. Now as he embraced Islam the separation ended and they were man and wife again. But after this reunion she lived for a very short period and died

in 8thHijri. Her daughter who was 10 years old then lived under the A guardianship of the prophet in the house of Fatima .

A A Siraj-e-Mubeen According to the will of Fatima , Ali , married Umama who was nearly 15 Page: 415 years old then. She bore no child, but brought up the children of FatimaA with love and care.

(xii). The Death of Usman Bin Mazu‟nR:

At the end of the 2ndHijri, Usman Bin Mazaun died and was buried in Al-Baqi’y graveyard of Medina. He was a close companion of Prophet MohammadS as well as Imam AliA.

(xiii). The breach of agreement by Jews:

Al-Quran Verily the vilest of beasts in God‟s view are those who disbelieve, and shall not Surah Anfal-8 believe. Verses: 55-58 Those of them with whom you made a covenant, then they break their covenant 279

every time, and they do not safeguard themselves (against committing evil). When you seize them in battle, disperse them by inflicting a complete defeat, so that who come after them may remember. If you fear a treachery from a people, then throw back their covenant on them, so as to be on equal terms. Verily God does not love treacher Aous.

In the suburbs of Medina three Jewish tribes resided. They were Banu Qynqah, Banu Nadyr and Banu Qaryza. All the three tribes were a party to Medina Pact and had agreed to all the conditions mentioned in the Pact.

They had full religious freedom, but as they were citizens of the Islamic State and were followers of MosesA‟s Shariah hence they were expected to refrain from those things which were forbidden in Judaism as well as in Islam. For example: “Refrain from falsehood, from forbidden food, not to run towards sin and violence, to avoid interest and to refrain from gaining profit from the goods of other people”.

Instead of trying to follow their own Torah, they started brewing grievance against Muslims and secretly conspiring against them.

Their racial complexes and arrogance made them blind to reality and they joined the non- believers of Mecca in their conspiracies against the Muslims.

When Muslims departed for battle of Badar, the Jews were certain about their defeat. So after the prophet left Medina they started spreading rumors about his defeat. But his victory at Badar came as big surprise to them. In their desperation and disappointment they decided to break all ties with Muslims.

(xiv). Exile of Banu Qynqah:

Summary of: Banu Qynqah was the first Jewish tribe who out of jealousy breached the Spirit of Islam Agreement. By nature they were rebellious and unruly and they started a Syed Ameer Ali commotion in the city. They lived in strongly built mansions, and their majority Page: 167 were blacksmiths and goldsmiths. They were skilled craftsmen, good at art of Summary of: making weapons, artisans and traders. A large number of Ansar and Mohajrin Tareekh-e-Tabari worked in their markets. Their ethical values were low, and they teased Muslim Ibn-e-Hisham women when they came to the market. Ibn-e-Saad Narrated by: One day a Muslim girl came in the market to sell milk. A Jewish youth Asim Bin Qatah misbehaved with her. She was sided by a Muslim and a brawl took place Ansari between the two. The result was that both the Jew and the Muslim died in the fight. This infuriated many in the market. The prophet hearing about this Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 incident reached the market, and tried to bring an end to the commotion. He Page: 374 addressed the Jews:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 “O Jews! Be afraid of God, for it is possible that He may punish you as He did Pages: 224-225 those at Badar”. Instead of being ashamed or frightened, they replied haughtily: “We are not Quraiysh to be afraid. If you face us in battle then we will show

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you what a real fight is”. After this altercation, they took refuge in their fort like homes. Now that they had breached the Pact and announced to fight, prophet also signaled his followers to raise arms against them. Muslims besieged their fort. The siege continued for 15 days and ultimately Jews decided to give up and accept whatever prophet decided. Abdullah Bin Ubaii‟ the hypocrite, was their secret ally. He requested the prophet to treat them kindly. Although they deserved a severe punishment, but the kind hearted prophet merely banished them from Medina. They left and settled down in Azraat, a location towards Syria. Their number was 700 men, out of which 300 were warriors with armours.

(xv). The First Khums of War Spoils:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 After the exile of the Jews all those assets which they had left behind were Page: 207 collected. Prophet retained one-fifth part of it as Khums and distributed the rest among Muslims.

(xvi).Eid-ul-Azha and First Sacrifice:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 It is narrated by Jaffar Ibne AbdullahR, the same year the prophet and his Page: 208 companions who could afford sacrificed animals on 10thZil-Hajj. Before sacrificing they offered prayers in the Imamat of the prophet.

(xvii). Exile of Banu Nadyr:

The second large tribe of Jews was Banu Nadyr. They had a small settlement in a fortress outside Medina; which was protected by a fence. Abu Raafi‟ Ibne Abi-al-Haqiq was their tribal chief who was given the title “The Merchant of Hijaz”. The famous poet Ka‟b Ibne Ashraf was his grandson. Because of his wealth and his poetic talent he became famous and very influential. Many Jew scholars and religious leaders were on his pay role.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Ka‟b Bin Ashraf was a racist and biased towards Islam. When many Quraiysh Page: 225 Chieftains died in the Badar Battle, he was grieved. He went to Mecca for condolence and wrote mournful elegy. Many of his verses provoked the Quraiysh youth to take revenge. When he returned to Medina, he started writing satanic verses against the prophet. His presence in Medina became very dangerous for Muslims. On one hand he was planning to kill the prophet through deceit, and on the other, his verses incited the Quraiysh, and kindled the fire of revenge in their hearts. All this was a violation of the pact. When the suspicion of an outbreak of violence became imminent, then on Allah‟s Command the prophet ordered his execution. Mohammad Bin Muslim killed the poet in the month of Rabi-al-Awwal of 3rdHijri. Abu Raafi‟ then planned to avenge his grandson‟s murder, and instigated the neighboring Banu Salym and Banu Ghatfan. For this treachery he was killed by a Muslim belonging to the tribe of Bani Khizrj. 281

Summary of: These determined actions of the Muslims terrorized the Jews for some time. Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 However their malice, anger and envy did not subside. Page: 378 rd Spirit of Islam In Shawwal 3 Hijri when the Quraiysh attacked Medina to avenge (Badar) Syed Ameer Ali these Jews of Banu Nadyr on the instigation of the hypocrites abrogated the Page: 163 Medina Pact, and did not help the Muslims in repelling the onslaught.

According to the Pact, they were bound to help the Muslims when Medina was attacked. However prophet overlooked the matter, but when Muslims suffered a hard time in the battle of Uhud, the Jews got encouraged to plan the murder of the prophet. Soon they got the opportunity.

In the month of Safar4thHijri, near the spring called Byr Mau’na in the region of Banu Saleem and Banu Aamir, 70 Muslims were martyred. Two men of this group however escaped, one Umru Bin Umayya fled to Medina. On his way he met two unarmed persons belonging to Banu Aamir who had the permit of safe journey from the prophet. Umru mistook them to be enemies, and killed them. When the prophet learnt about this killing, he was grieved. Prophet planned the payment of the blood money of the two killed men, According to the pact of Medina, the blood money was to be shared by Jews as well.

So the prophet asked both Banu Nadyr and Banu Qryza to pay their share of the blood money. Taking advantage of this situation Banu Naydr invited the prophet to their settlements to receive the said share. The prophet along with his companions visited them not knowing that the Jews had already planned to kill him. As soon as he sat down amongst them, Allah warned the prophet. Hence he got up and left immediately. After reaching Medina he wrote to them:

“I have learnt about your treachery, so I order you to leave Medina within 10 days. If anyone of you is found in the city after this period he will be executed”.

After this, message Muslims laid siege to the Jews settlement. When the leader of the hypocrites learnt about this, he sent a message to Jews, saying: “Do not vacate your settlement. We will bring Banu Ghatfan and Banu Qaryza to your help”.

But the hypocrites failed to fulfill their promise. So after the end of ultimatum period, Jews asked Muslims for reconciliation. The prophet offered them the same conditions of truce, which were placed previously before Bani Qynqah. Then the Jews promised to vacate their settlement. They were allowed to take all their belongings except weapons. Before leaving, they razed to ground their houses so Muslims may not live in them. Taking all their possessions, they left. This was a great surprise for everyone. A few weeks earlier, no one could imagine such a thing to happen. Quran says:

Al-Quran It is God who caused those who disbelieved from among the people of the Surah Hashr-59 book, to go forth from their homes unto their first banishment. You did not Verses: 2-3 think that they would go away; and they imagined that their forts would protect them against God. But God came upon them from where they did not suspect. He filled their hearts with terror, so much so, that they demolished their homes with their own hands and the hands of the believers. So take warning, O you who have eyes.

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Had God not decreed the expulsion for them, He would certainly have punished them in this world. In the hereafter, they shall have the punishment of the fire.

The Banu Nadyr were exiled in Rabbi-ul-Awwal of 4thHijri. Their land and weapons were distributed amongst the Mohajirin (refugees) with the consent of the Ansar.

(xviii) The End of Banu Quryza:

Spirit of Islam Banu Quryza was the third and last Jewish tribe in the vicinity of Medina. They Pages: 170 to 176 lived in several small fortresses in the south-east of Medina. According to the Pact with Prophet, it was their duty to help Muslims at the time of any attack. Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 With Reference But when battle of Trench was about to take place they conspired with Ibne Hisham Quraiysh of Mecca in breach of the Pact and allied with them. The prophet sent Ibnul-Asyr Tabari Saad Bin Muaz and Saad Bin Abada to remind them of their obligations but they rudely replied: “Who is Mohammad that we have to obey him. We have no Pact with him”.

Due to the approaching battle, the prophet overlooked the matter, but after winning the Battle of Trench, he interrogated Jews about their act. They arrogantly and stubbornly refused to reply. Therefore Muslims laid a siege and Jews were forced to negotiate their surrender. They laid down only one condition “Whatever the chief of Banu Aous will decide for them they will follow and obey”.

Saad Bin Muaz the chief of Banu AAous, decided according to the Jewish laws of battle as given in the Torah. “For treachery the soldiers of Banu Qaryza will be killed, their children and women will be made slaves”.

Then the decree was carried out and nearly two hundred soldiers were put to sword. The suburbs of Medina were thus cleared of Jews, the few who escaped settled in the fort of Khyber in the north- east of Medina.

It is said that a Jewish woman named Rehana came as a slave to the prophet. Some say she was selected for the prophet prior to deciding the slave allocation. However the Islamic history, shows this incidence only as abused and irrational. The story of prophet marrying a woman named Rehana is false as it does not appear in any of the authentic and detailed account of prophet‟s wives. According to Islamic History prophet married only one slave girl, Mariya Qubtya.

(xix) The Attack of the Quraiysh on Medina: (Ghazwah Al-Saweeq 2ndHijri, 624 AD):

It was customary among Arabs that the killing of a single person started an unending Feud of Revenge; which did not end despite the killing of hundreds of innocent persons. How could then Quraiysh forget the battle of Badar where 70 chiefs of the Quraiysh had been killed. The whole of 283

Mecca was engulfed with the flames of vengeance and retaliation, and was resounding with the slogans of “Saar” i.e, Revenge.

Abu Suffyan who was now the leader of Quraiysh chiefs, his foremost duty was to avenge the battle of Badr. He had vowed not to sit idle until the revenge of Quraiysh‟s blood was taken. So as soon as the released prisoners of Badar reached Mecca, he moved out with a contingent of two hundred soldiers and attacked those Muslims who were settled in the south-west of Medina. He attacked and burnt down the date orchards and Oasis; plundering and destroying whatever came his way. In this incident, an Ansar Saad Bin Umrau was killed. As soon as the news reached the prophet, he came out to face him, but Abu Suffyan hearing about the prophet‟s arrival, fled towards Mecca. To increase the speed of his retreat he had to unladen the animals to lighten their burden. So bags of grams were thrown away while retreating. Due to this reason this incident is called Ghazwah Al-Swyq” (the battle of grams).

Ghazwah Uhad: (Saturday 10thShawwal 3rdHijri, 26th January 625AD):

Spirit of Islam Uhad is the name of a hill nearly 1½ miles north of Medina. The battle was Syed Ameer Ali fought in its foothills hence the named GhazwahUhad. Page: 158 Though Abu Suffyan had fulfilled his vow yet the emotion of revenge still Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 tortured his heart. His people were also not satisfied with the battle of Al-swyq. The whole Mecca sought revenge, Meccan women and poets constantly Seerat-un-Nabi-1 instigated their fighters. Meccan poets traveled far and wide and stimulated these feelings and urged all Quraiysh tribes to rise. They finally succeeded in A Short History of Islam getting the help of two large Arab tribes of Kanana and Tahana. (A brief summary). Thus the infidels were able to muster a united force of three thAousand soldiers. All these soldiers were fully armed. 700 had armours, 200 rode horses, the rest rode camels. Apart from it, they had a large caravan of 3000 camels, loaded with provisions. When this army marched from Mecca, women were in the front singing emotional war songs. The camels in the centre carried large idols of their gods Laat and Uza.

Abu Suffyan Bin Harb was the commander of this army and Talha Bin Usman carried the flag.

Uncle of the prophet, AbbasR had embraced Islam but resided in Mecca. He wrote to prophet about the situation. This messenger travelled three days and three nights and reached Medina before the Meccan army did.

On reading the letter of AbbasR, the prophet asked Mohajrin and Ansar to gather in the mosque. There a consultation ensued to decide the future action. Elders of Medina and Abdullah Ibne Salool Ansari were of the opinion to wait for the enemy in the city. However the younger people wanted to advance forward and to face the enemy away from Medina.

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When the debate remained inconclusive the prophet went back home, and came out wearing the armour as per Divine Command. Seeing this all his companions also did the same and came back prepared for the fight. The day was Friday; hence the prophet first led the Friday congregation and then leading an army of one thousand fighters marched out of Medina.

The Meccan army had reached the out skirts of Medina on Wednesday. They had camped near the Uhad hills.

As the Muslim army reached the foot hills of Uhad, the hypocrite Abdullah Ibne Uba‟ii, went back with his three hundred followers. On this, the fighters of Banu Harsa and Banu Salma also lost courage but as Allah had promised help, the prophet paid no heed to this and started arranging the ranks of the 700 soldiers left in the field. Seeing the resolve of the prophet, Banu Harsa and Banu Salma also took heart and stayed in the field

Al-Quran And (remember) when you (O Muhammad) set forth from your house at early Surah Al-i-Imran-3 dawn so that you could prepare for the believers the encampment for the battle Verses: 121 to 129 (of Uhud). Allah is Hearer and knower.

(Remember) when two groups of you (Banu Harsa and Banu Salma) had a passing thought to withdraw (from the battle) and Allah was the guardian of both. In Allah alone should the believers trust.

Prophet MuhammadS had looked well over the battlefield. At his back and on one side were the mountains, a natural defence. In his front was the enemy and on the other side, a hillock. Realizing the strategic importance of the hillock, the prophet posted a contingent of 50 archers on the hillock with strict instructions not to leave the place and their watch at any cost.

Tafheen-ul-Quran Placing a small group of 50 archers on the hillock under the command of Pages: 284-286 Abdullah ibne Hubyr, to guard the pass, prophet ordered them not to leave the pass unguarded under any condition. Then for the consolation of his fighters the prophet addressed them: “Allah has promised. If you will be patient and fear Allah and fight in His name, the moment the enemy will attack, He will send 5000 Angels for your aid”.

Hearing this, the fighters of Banu Salma and Banu Harsa were ashamed of their cowardice, and resolved to fight side by side with the Muslims.

The battle lines were organized and arranged by the prophet. 700 soldiers were directly under his command. Musa‟b Bin Umaiyr was the standard bearer. The flanks and center were command by AliA, HamzaR (a cAousin of prophet) and Zubyr Bin Al-Awam (the nephew of KhadijaR).

The Prophet‟s Sword and Abu Dajaana:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 It is narrated by Zubyr bin-al-Awam that before the start of the battle, the Page: 231 prophet taking his sword in his hand inquired: “Who is there to honor this sword”? Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Page: 209 Abu Dajaana Samak Bin KharsaR, who was a great Arab wrestler asked: 285

“O prophet! What is the right and honor of this sword”? The prophet replied: “The right of this sword is that no non-believer should escape it, and its honor is that no Muslim is killed by it”.

Abu DajaanaR said: “O prophet! I will fulfill this honour”. Hearing this the prophet gave the sword to Abu DajaanaR.

Start of the Battle:

Spirit of Islam Before the fight started the Quraiysh women beating the Tambourines, and Syed Ameer Ali mourning the death of those who fell in the Badar Battle, sang emotional songs Page: 160 demanding revenge from the enemy. As they moved forward, the war drums were beaten. 3 Muslims replied with the slogans of Allah-o-Akbar (Allah is Great). The fight was then started by the infidels. On their first attack, the prophet signaled HamzaR to move forward. He did so immediately along with his fighters, penetrating the enemy lines and using his two edged sword, be created panic among the enemy and dissipated their attack. Seeing this their standard bearer Talha Bin Usman, waving his sword in the air came forward and challenged:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 “O Muslims! You claim that our dead go to hell and your‟s go to paradise. If Page: 230 there is any brave man among you then he should come forward. I will see how your Allah takes him to paradise, or would send me to hell through him”.

The prophet looked towards his brother AliA, who moved out of the ranks and said: “I swear by Allah who has my life in His Power. I will not leave you until I succeed in sending you to hell or I am sent by your sword to paradise”. Uttering these words AliA attacked and in one swing of his sword severed Talha‟s foot. As he fell to the ground, AliA went near him to severe his head, at this he pleaded: “O my Quraiysh brother! for the sake of Allah and my relation with you do not kill me”.

Hearing his pleadings, AliA did not kill him and returned to the prophet. Seeing him the prophet raised the slogan Allah-o-Akbar, after which the real fight started.

Historians write that the second attack was carried out by Khalid Bin Walyd (who had not accepted Islam by then). The Muslim archers rained arrows on him forcing him to retreat. This attack was faced by Zyubyr Bin Al-Awam.

A Short History of HamzaR, AliA, Abu DajaanaR and ZubyrR with their fighters forced their way Islam into the center of their enemy‟s ranks. Their attack was so severe and effective Page: 72 that the standard bearers of the Quraiysh were killed one after the other. Both A R Mohammad and the Ali and Hamza tore them to pieces. After Talha, his brother and then his sons course of Islam were killed, as they bore the Quraiysh‟s flag one after the other, at last a slave Page: 76 of Talha lifted the flag. Then AliA and HamzaR killed that slave and after him the other slave who tried to uphold the flag. Soon all lost courage of lifting the Tareekh-e-Tabari Page: 234 flag. 286

It is narrated by Abu Raf‟e that when AliA had finished eliminating the standard-bearers of the enemy, the prophet sighted a group of Bani Lavi bin Marri and ordered AliA to attack them. AliA dispersed that group and killed Shyba Bin Malik, their chief.

Angel Gabriel who was present at that time by the side of prophet, exclaimed: “This is a grand demonstration of his love for you!”.

Pleased on hearing this, the prophet said: “Why not, I am from Ali and Ali is from me”. On this, Gabriel said: “And I am the third of you”.

On the second front, a fierce fight was raging around HamzaR and Abu Dajaana. AliA also joined and all three HamzaR, AliA and Abu DajaanaR forced the enemy to retreat. Soon the enemy was routed and fled. The three chased them in different directions.

The Quraiysh women who were joyfully singing a little earlier, were now fleeing in panic. Abu- Suffyan‟s wife Hinda (daughter of Utba who was slain in Badar) also ran to save her skin.

Abu Dajaana with the prophet‟s sword and a red-kerchief (bandna) tied to his head, was pursuing the enemies. When he reached the foot hills he saw the panicked women. First Abu Dajaana lifted his sword to kill their leader Hinda, but stopped. Sometime later somebody asked the reason of his behavior, he replied: “I thought the prophet‟s sword was far too pure to fall on a non-believer woman”.

While HamzaR fought furiously and the enemy was fleeing his sword, a slave of Jubair-bin- Muti‟m was in wait for him. His master had promised to free him if he killed HamzaR. He was pursuing HamzaR like a serpent in high grass and HamzaR was totally unaware of this looming danger. ZubyrR was fully occupied in holding at bay the cavalry of Khalid-bin-Walyd, by incessant archery.

Quran says:

Al-Quran (God promised) We shall cast dread into the hearts of disbelievers because they Surah Al-i-Imran-3 have associated with God that for which He has not sent down any authority. Verse: 151-152 Their abode shall be the fire. And indeed God made good His promise to you

when you routed them by His permission.

At this time an unfortunate thing happened. The victoriAous Muslims started looting the war booty and forgot their responsibility of chasing the fleeing enemy. The group of 50 archers guarding the pass also ran greedily to partake the booty, and left the pass unguarded, with only a few archers positioned in place. The wily Quraiysh chiefs Khalid-bin-Walyd and Umar-bin-al-A‟as, whose cavalry could not make any headway earlier, now found a golden opportunity to attack the rear of the Muslims.

Both of them took a detour and encircled the few Muslim archers. After killing them, their cavalry ferociously attacked the Muslim fighters. This surprise attack devasted the Muslims. Some enemy soldiers climbed the hillock and started shouting: 287

“We have killed Mohammad”.

Upon hearing this, the fleeing Quraiysh turned back, and saw Khalid and his cavalry overpowering the Muslims. A non-believer woman then picked up the fallen flag and waved it. Soon she was surrounded by the Quraiysh who started attacking the Muslims with new vigor. This sudden change shattered the Muslim resistance and many started feeling in panic. Although the prophet called out to show that he was alive, but the fleeing soldiers did not listen. Quran says:

Al-Quran (Remember) when you ran away up onto the hill and did not even look back at Surah Al-i-Imran-3 any one, while the messenger (Muhammad) was calling you from behind. So Verse: 153 God has inflicted upon you anguish after anguish, so that you might learn not to

grieve at what eluded you nor at what befell you. God is fully aware of what you do. Tafheem-ul-Quran-1 Hearing the call of the prophet only 30 companions came back to him But Page: 296 closely guarding him were only Talha Bin Ubaida and Sohail Bin Hanif. Talha protected the back and Sohail front of the prophet and saved him from stones, hurtled by the enemies; but they were unable to stop the shower of arrows.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 During this time Jabeer Ibne Abdullah, who was incharge of defending the Page: 239 pass, was martyred along with, his companions, while fighting with Khalid Bin Walyd. The Quraiysh had only one aim to kill the prophet. But none dared going near him. They were hurling stones and arrows from a distance. Nearly 25 Muslim soldiers stood not very far from the prophet but in a state of confusion and shock. Zeyad Bin Sakun amongst them heard the prophet‟s voice: “Is there anyone who will give his life (protecting) the Messenger of Allah”? He recovered from the shock and along with five of his companions rushed forward to defend prophet, but all the six were martyred.

Mohammad and the Soon another small group gathered around the prophet. Saad Bin Aby Waqas, course of Islam Talha Ibne Abdullah, Zubyr Bin Al-Awam and Abu Ubaiyda Bin Jarah from Page: 78 the immigrants and Hubab Ibne Manzar, A‟sim Bin Sabit, Sohail Ibne Hanif, Umeed Ibne Uzair and Sa‟ad Bin Mauz from Ansar, were prominent amongst them. Abu BakrR was near the prophet but was injured. Musi‟m-bin-Umair holding the standard stood near the prophet, the rest surrounded him, and braved the onslaught.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 At this time out of 700 Muslim fighters only 150 remained in the field, the rest Page: 239 had ran away. Some to places away from Medina and only reached there after three days. Some climbed the nearby hills of Jalla‟d and A’raz and some climbed the still higher peaks. This group resting on the high peak, losing all hope and courage, discussed with each other the possibility of reaching Abu Suffyan. They said: “Is there any person amongst us who could reach Abdullah-ibn-Uba‟ii seek immunity for us from Abu-Suffyan”? Another group, which comprised of Umer FarooqR and his companions, had

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also lost all hope, and discussed among themselves: “Now that the prophet has died, let us return home or the enemies will destroy us”. There was another group who comprised of diehard (loyal to the core) Mujahideen who had brought victory to Muslims only if it was not spoilt by the greed and temptation of some who disobeyed and rushed for the war spoils. Prominent among this group were HamzaR, AliA, Abu DajaanaR, AnusR Bin Nadr, SaadR Bin Rabby, AbdullahR Ibne Hujsh. They were chasing the retreating enemy unaware of the changing scenario. Suddenly they found themselves besieged by the enemy. All of them were surrounded by a large number of enemy soldiers. They also heard the enemy chanting: “We have killed Mohammad” and “Mohammad is dead”. They gradually fought their way towards the spot where they had left the prophet. But in this effort they got separated.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 Anus Bin Nadr came near the hill where he found UmerR and others dejected Page: 237 and panicked. Anus questioned: “Why are you sitting like this”? They replied:“The prophet is dead, what is the use of fighting now”? AnusR replied: “Is there any sense of living after the prophet. We must fight for the faith for which the prophet died”. Saying these words AnusR attacked the enemy and died while fighting. After him, AbdullahR Bin Hajsh and SaadR Bin Rabby too were martyred. Abu DajaanaR fighting with the prophet‟s sword finally reached the spot where the faithful were defending the prophet. He too joined them, and shielding the prophet took those arrows on his back. At last critically injured, he fell at prophet‟s feet and died.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 SaadR Bin Aby Waqas was standing behind Abu DajaanaR and was shooting Page: 238 arrows at the enemy, while his brother Atba Bin Aby Waqas (who was a non- believer) injured the prophet with stones. He hit the face of the prophet from

where blood poured down, wetting prophet‟s beard. HamzaR was also surrounded by the enemies. The slave of Jubair-bin-Mu‟tim who was promised freedom by his master and cash award by Abu Suffyan‟s wife Hind, also succeeded in finding on opportunity of striking HamzaR. He R struck with his spear and felled Hamza .

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 The savage slave himself stated that: Page: 236 “He saw HamzaR, moving his sword left and right, killing all those who came in his way, like the dust colored male camel, which destroys all that comes in its way. When HamzaR came before me, I aimed my spear and threw it at him, which piercing his groin passed through his legs, HamzaR moved towards me, then staggered and fell. I waited until I was sure that HamzaR had died then I pulled out my spear and left the battle-field as my target was only HamzaR; I had no other aim.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 AliA, unaware of all this, was fighting ferociously killing everyone who come Pager: 221 in his reach. He had no knowledge of the whereabouts of the prophet. Then he 289

heard Ka‟ab Bin Malik: “O Muslims! The Messenger of Allah is here, come in this direction”. AliA rushed in that direction. He fought his way through a large number of enemy soldiers and ultimately reached the prophet. Abu Jaffar narrates that at the same moment Musa‟b Bin Umayr the standard Bearer was martyred, while fighting. He was killed by Qymat-ul-Lysy, who mistook him as the prophet. He turned back to his comrades and declared:1 “I have killed Mohammad”.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 As soon as Musa fell, AliA on the order of the prophet, at once lifted the flag. Now he held the flag in one hand and the sword in the other. Ibne Kaseer It is stated in the history books and biographies of the prophet that the prophet

Rozatul-Ahbab stood injured by the sword of Atba Bin Aby Waqas, his two front teeth had (Summary) also broken by the stone thrown by Atba. Ibne Qamya‟s sword had slashed the left side of prophet‟s head, causing a deep wound which bled intensively. In this condition he asked AliA: “Why did you not run away like others”? AliA replied: “O prophet of God, I have always been by your side, how could I now become non-believer after believing in you”. Seeing the prophet and AliA alive, the enemy attacked full force. The prophet told AliR: “Bar them with your sword”. Hearing this AliA pounced upon the enemies, so much so that his sword broke in two. The prophet handed over his sword to AliA. This was the sword which Angel GabrielA had given to the prophet. The brave Abu Dajaana had fulfilled his duty and rendered justice to the prophet‟s sword by his martyrdom. All other faithfuls were either seriously injured or had been martyred. Many had withdrawn their swords back into in the sheaths or their swords were broken due to extensive fight. Now only AliA was defending the prophet with his sword called Zulfiqar. The enemy fighters in large number were facing him with their drawn swords.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 The infidels were putting their pressure to reach the prophet. They gathered as Page: 221 darkening clouds but the lightening of Zulfiqar pierced and dissipated these

clouds. At this juncture people heard this heavenly voice: “There is no fighter but Ali, and no sword but Zulfiqar”.

A It is narrated by Ali that: Tareekh-e-Tabari “In the Battle-field of Uhad, I was fighting but my attention was also towards Page: 235 the prophet, whom I looked at, turning back again and again. As I turned back

once, I could not see the prophet. I thought Allah had lifted him to the skies. Then I resolved to die while fighting. Thinking this I fiercely attacked and disrupted the enemy ranks and found the prophet alive before me”. This was the most crucial moment of the battle of Uhud. Abu Suffyan had completely annihilated Muslim resistance. No one was left to defend prophet except AliA.

The heavenly voice heard by people at this juncture, was therefore certainly the announcement of God‟s help through the sword of AliA. On his part AliA accomplished the impossible by fighting without caring for his life and only caring for the safety of the prophet.

It was during this phase of fight that Ibne Qamiah seeing the prophet alive

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Tareekh-e-Tabari attacked with his sword, which struck prophet‟s armour. The prophet lost his Page: 235 balance and fell in a ditch. Talha Bin Ubaida who was lying injured near the prophet, immediately jumped in the ditch and saved the prophet from injury. In the mean time AliA also reached there and both helped prophet to come out of the ditch. From there they took him to that high boulder, where Umer FarooqR was present with a group. They were pelting stones on the enemy from their positions. As Abu Suffyan saw the prophet, he along with his comrades tried to climb the hill, in order to kill the prophet. But the rain of stones, pelted by Umer FarooqR and his companions soon made them retreat as they slipped from the slopes. Thus what they desired was not accomplished. Reaching the safe location AliA brought some water and washed the wounds of the prophet. Then all offered the Zohr (afternoon) prayer while sitting.

The News of Defeat at Medina:

Tareekh-e-Tabari Those who had fled the battle-field reached Medina with the news of defeat Page: 246 and the killing of the prophet. Those companions of the prophet who had been left behind in Medina due to some reason, immediately rushed to the battle- field. The father of Hazifa Yamani and Sabit Bin Waqsh were left in Medina by the prophet to guard the women and children. They were elderly persons. When they heard this news, they too ran towards the battle-field to fight and get martyrdom. The enemy killed Sabit as soon as he reached there. Nobody recognized Yamani, and he was killed by the Muslims, who mistook him to be the enemy although Hazifa shouted: “Stop! He is my father”. But nobody heard his voice in the clattering of the swords. After the battle the prophet offered him Diyat (blood money) against the blood of Yamani, but Hazifa refused to take it, and devoted the amount for charity.

MohammadS and the Waqas Ibne Qaboos and his nephew Haris Ibne Uba too reached the battle- course of Islam field but were torn to pieces by the infidels. Pages: 80-81 Hanzla had also stayed back in Medina, with the permission of the prophet, as Seerat-un-Nabi- he had married the same day. As soon as he heard the news of the defeat, he Page: 210 wore his armour over his wedding dress, and left with his sword.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 Reaching the battle-field he looked out for Abu Suffyan, he found him and Page: 241 went near to kill him. But he was sighted by Shadad Bin Al-Aswad, who ran towards Hanzla and killed him. The killing pleased Abu-Suffyan and he shouted: “Great is Habl (the god)”.

Then announced: “O Muslims! In Badar you killed my son Hanzla. Now the murder of this Hanzla has avenged that of my son, and also the others killed in Badar”.

Sahy Bukhari and Then he climbed the hill opposite the one on which the prophet was present Tareekh-e-Tabari 291

with his companions. He shouted: “Is Mohammad there”? The prophet signaled his companions to keep quiet. He again inquired: “Is Umer there”? Still silence prevailed, so he asked: “Is Abu Bakr there”? When he got no answer then he said: “I think all have been killed”. These words made Umer FarooqR lose his patience, and he shouted back: “O enemy of Allah! We are all alive”. Hearing this Abu Suffyan raised the slogan of his gods “Habl” and “Uza” and left the hill saying: “Now you have no help (from your helpless god!). The Muslims replied on the orders of the prophet: “Allah is our Lord and Master and you have none”.

Women and Uhud Battle-field:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 When the news of the prophet‟s death and of defeat reached Medina, then Pager: 213 along with the men many women also reached the battle field. A‟maraR, dodging the arrows and swords of the enemies, reached the location where the prophet was. She then stopped many arrows, which came towards the prophet. When Ibne Qamyah attacked with a sword, she tried to hold him back with her sword, in this effort of saving the prophet she herself was injured in the shoulder. AyeshaR and Umm-e-Saleem were providing water to the injured. When FatimaA heard, she too left her home in panic and reached the prophet at the time AliA was washing the wounds of the prophet, which were bleeding profusely. She burnt a piece of mat and filling the wounds with its ashes, bandaged them, this stopped the bleeding. SafiaR the aunt of the prophet and sister of HamzaR also heard the same news and came running, seeing the prophet alive, she thanked Allah. The martyred Muslim corpses were humiliated by the unbelievers but Hinda, the wife of Abu Suffyan and mother of Muawiya topped them all. She cut off the nose, ears and other parts of the Hamza‟s body and wore them as a garland because she had handed over all her ornaments as prize to the slave who had killed HamzaR. even this was not enough. She savagely cut open the chest of HamzaR, took his liver out and started chewing it although she was unable to swallow it. This is why in Islamic history she is called “Hinda the liver-eater”. The prophet tried to hide these facts from SafiaR and was of the opinion that she should avoid seeing HamzaR‟s corpse. But she insisted, saw the corpse, kept patient and just uttered: “To Him has he returned”. ( ). When the prophet reached Medina his cousin Hamna Binte Hajsh (daughter of Amama Binte Abdul Muttalib) visited him. Then she learnt about the 292

martyrdom of her brother Abdullah Bin Hajsh her Uncle HamzaR Ibne Abdul Muttalib and her husband Musi‟b-bin-Umair. She could not control her weeping, but kept her patience.

The Martyrs of Uhud and their Funerals:

In the battle, 76 Muslims were martyred out of which 4 were refugees and 72 Ansar. Before evening Abu Suffyan had left the field along with his fighters although was in an excellent winning position and could strike a final deadly blow, but he did not do it. God had filled his heart with terror. He did not even attack the hill where the Muslims had taken refuge, or did not even attack the city of Medina. They however did not hesitate mutilating the corpses of the martyrs and leaving them naked in the field. Then they left not only the battle-field, but also vacated those suburbs which they had captured.

The treatment meted out to their dead and the insult of their martyrs hurt the feelings of Muslims. They too wanted to treat the dead of the enemies in the same manner. At this juncture Allah revealed the following.

Al-Quran Be patient (O Muhammad)! And your patience is only with the help of Allah. Surah Nahl-16 Do not grieve for them, and do not be distressed because of what they devise. Verses: 127 to 128 Verily Allah is with those who safeguard themselves against evil and those who do good.

From that day the abhorrent and heinous tradition of mutilating bodies of enemies was forbidden for Muslims.

From amongst the Mohajrin such brave warriors as Ameer HamzaR, Musa‟bR Bin Umaiyr, AbdullahR Bin Hajsh and HanzlaR were martyred, whereas amongst the Ansar Abu DajaanaR, Zayed Bin SkanR and other faithfuls embraced martyrdom. In short 76 of the best Muslim fighters were lost in the battle, which depressed the Muslims. These deaths were a great blow, nearly the whole of Medina mourned their deaths. For the consolation of these aggrieved souls, following verses were revealed:

Al-Quran Do not reckon those who are slain in the way of God to be dead. No. they are Surah Al-i-Imran-3 alive with their Lord, and getting substance from Him, rejoicing in what God Verses: 169-171 has bestowed on them of His grace. (Also) rejoicing for those who have not yet joined them from behind them that no fear shall come on them nor shall they grieve. They rejoice in the grace from God and His bounty. Truly God does not let the reward of the believers fritter away.

The bodies of these martyrs lied scattered in the battle-field in such mutilated condition that they were buried where they were.

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Return to Medina and the mourning of the Martyrs:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 After the burial of the martyrs Muslims returned to Medina before night fall. In Pages: 242-248 the homes the Ansar great mourning and wailing prevailed. The prophet too could not help crying. Silence and grief prevailed in the homes of Mohajrin.

All the four who had died were prophet‟s relatives and were great warriors. The R prophet felt deep loss of his uncle Hamza . He heard the wailing sounds coming from variAous directions of the cities, and overwhelmed with grief said:

“Is there is no one to mourn the death of Hamza”? Seerrat-un-Nabi-1 When Ansar heard this, they were excessively grieved and asked their wives, Page: 215 daughters and sisters to mourn Hamza‟s death at his hAouse. They went to Hamza‟s house and wailed and wept there. The prophet thanked them and blessed them.

It is unfortunate that some scholars declare lamentation over dead relatives as forbidden. This opinion is against Sunnah of the prophet and is based on weak and false traditions. As detailed above, prophet himself wept for his uncle HamzaR.

Masnad Imam Ahmed-bin-Hambal When prophet died, his wife AeyshaR wept. This tradition is narrated by Vol: 8, Page: 63. (AyeshaR) herself. Tradition No. 1984.

The injured soldiers of Uhud:

After the enemy left the battle-field, Muslims descended down from the hills. They saw scores of injured groaning and moaning. It is narrated that for their cure the prophet said: “The mud which is wet with the blood of martyrs, should be put on their wounds”.

Companions of the prophet complied, and it proved like a miraculous cure. God Almighty also blessed them with confidence and slumber. They slept so well that night that they had not done so earlier. But those whose hearts were waivery and their faith weak, they could not sleep the whole night. They were obsessed with thoughts of enemy attacking Medina. Quran says:

Al-Quran Then after the anguish, God sent down security upon you (in the form of) Surah Al-i-Imran-3 slumber. It overcame a group of you, while the other group who cared only for Verse: 154 their own selves, they had ignorant thoughts about God unjustly. They were saying: “Is there any share for us in the authority (decision-making)”? Say (O Muhammad): “Verily the authority rests wholly with God”. They hid in their selves what they would not reveal to you. They were saying: “If we had had any share in the authority (decision-making), we would not have been killed at this place”. Say (O Muhammad): “even if you had remained in your homes, they who were decreed to be slain would have gone forth to the places where they now lie. It is so because God may test (prove) what was in your breasts and purge what was in your hearts. Verily God knows what is hidden in your hearts. 294

Ghazwah Humrat-ul-Asad:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 When Abu Suffyan reached the place called Roha, there he realized that he had Page: 214 left his work incomplete. Hence he decided to turn back and attack Medina, in order to wipe out his defeated enemies.

On the other side after the prayers of Tahajud (midnight prayer), the prophet summoned Bilal and ordered him to give the call that the prophet has

summoned all to chase the enemy, and only those should come armed who had fought in Uhad.

Quran says about them:

Al-Quran Those who responded to the call of God and the messenger, even after the Surah Al-i-Imran-3 wounds that had been inflicted on them, and they do good and safeguard Verse: 172 themselves with full awareness of Divine laws, there is a great reward.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Hearing this Command all obeyed. Many were seriously injured but the manner Page: 244 in which they immediately responded, astonished and amazed the Jews and hypocrites of Medina. It was for these righteous faithful that Allah spoke about the great reward. The prophet with 540 faithfuls, marched to chase the enemy. He sent AliA with a contingent ahead to find out the movement of the enemy forces, and himself stayed back with the rest of the soldiers at Humrat-ul-Asad. AliA states: “As per order I trailed the enemy. A little ahead of Ruha I saw that leaving the horses unsaddled all of its soldiers were riding camels. They were moving in the direction of Mecca, now I understood that they had decided not to turn towards Medina. I too returned and inform my prophet, who was pleased and thanked Allah. At Humar-ul-Asad the prophet led the Esha (night) prayer and asked his followers to camp at the same site for the night. Surrounding the camp, fire was lit, to prevent the enemy from surprise attack. Then he said : “Now the infidels will straight away go to Mecca, and my Lord has informed that, from now onwards they will never succeed in over-powering the Muslims. It is Allah who bred fear in their hearts, so thank Him for it”. They stayed for three days and then returned to Medina. As Abu Suffyan became aware of the chase, he increased his traveling speed towards Mecca. On his way he succeeded in killing two Muslims. Reaching Mecca, he sent a message to the prophet: “I will soon come back to destroy Mohammad and his followers”.

When the Muslims received this message, there were some who were not threatened due to their faith in Allah and His Messenger. Quran says about them:

Al-Quran When they were told by some: “Verily (enemy) has mustered strong against Surah Al-i-Imran-3 you, therefore fear them”. It only increased their faith, and they said: “God is Verse: 173-174 sufficient for us. Most excellent is He who protects us”. They returned, therefore, with grace and favour from God and no harm touched them. They followed the pleasure of God and God is Lord of mighty grace. 295

There were also others whose faith was weak. Quran says about them:

Al-Quran Verily those of you who turned back on the day (of Uhud) when the hosts met, Surah Al-i-Imran-3 (it was) only devil (Shaytan) who made them backslide on account of some of Verse: 155 their sinful actions. But God has pardoned them. Verily God is Oft-forgiving, forbearing.

Reason of Defeat in Uhud and its Consequences:

Al-Quran What! When a misfortune befell you (at Uhud) while you had already inflicted Surah Al-i-Imran-3 as much (on the disbelievers at Badar), you said: “whence is this”? say (O Verse: 165 Muhammad): “this is from your own selves. Verily God has power over all

things”. Commentators have written that defeat at Uhad had brought anxiety and doubts to some of the Muslims.

Tafseer-e-Namuma3 God, through the above-mentioned verse informed His Messenger that Page: 124 whatever happened in Uhud was a punishment for their own mistakes and sins. They disobeyed their prophet at a moment when victory was almost achieved. At that crucial stage they abandoned their duty of guarding the strategic pass, providing a clear opportunity to their enemy to attack. Furthermore, they threw down their arms and started collecting the booty, and when the enemy attacked, they fled instead of fighting. Consequently they lost 76 of their brave warriors and a large number suffered injuries.

The 70 Ansar who were martyred were those who were perfect Momins (righteous), and none can compare with them in earnestness of cause. The four Mohajirin martyred were close relatives of the prophet, his great warriors and great asset. These 76 got their best reward from their Lord, the martyrdom.

AliA came out of the battle of Uhud as the greatest support of the prophet and the most shining warrior of Islam. Ever afterwards, during the 8 years of the prophet‟s life, AliA was his most trusted lieutenant, his protector and his shield, and his greatest and invincible warrior.

Some close relatives of the prophet were not in Medina when the battle of Uhud took place. His uncle, Abbas was in Mecca along with his family. Aqil, brother of AliA) was also in Mecca, and Jafar (another brother of AliA) was still in Ethiopia where he migrated 8 years ago.

The battle of Uhud also clearly distinguished the status of faith (Imaan) of the followers of prophet MuhammadS. The worst were the hypocrites (Munafiqun) who abandoned the prophet and refused to fight. Better than them were those who participated in the fight but ran away as soon as the signs of Muslim defeat appeared. The best were those who fought with the sole purpose of pleasing God. Neither victory nor defeat mattered to them, neither life nor death.

Quran says:

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Al-Quran  What befell you on the day when the two hosts met (in the battle of Uhud), it Surah Al-i-Imran-3 was with God‟s permission, as He wanted to make it clearly distinguishable, Verse: 166-167 the (true) believers (from the rest).  And that he may make the hypocrites distinguishable, who were told (by the prophet): “Come fight in the way of God or defend”. They said: “If we had considered this as a (fair) fight we would have followed you”, (meaning that it was a suicidal exploit of prophet). On that day they were nearer to infidelity than faith. They speak with their mouths a thing, which was not in their hearts, and God knows best what they conceal, (they were hiding their infidelity behind this excuse).  (These hypocrites after they reached home), while they sat at home, they said of their brethren: “Had they (the martyrs) obeyed us, they would not have been slain”. (Say (O Muhammad to these hypocrites): “Ward off death from yourselves if you are truthful”.

About those who ran away from the battlefield, Quran says:

grieve at what eluded you nor at what befell you. God is fully aware of what you do.

About best of the Muslims (Mominin), Quran says:

Al-Quran As for those who responded to the call of God and the messenger Surah Al-i-Imran-3 (Muhammad), even after the wounds that had been inflicted on them. For such Verse: 172 of those who do good and safeguard themselves with full awareness of Divine

laws, there is a great reward.

Al-Quran Those to whom the people said: “Verily, they have mustered strong force Surah Al-i-Imran-3 against you, therefore fear them”? It only increased their faith and they said: Verse: 173 “God is sufficient for us. Most excellent is He who protects us”.

Battle of Uhud boosted the morale of the Quraiysh. Abu Suffyan gaining courage decided to finally annihilate the Muslims. Those Arab tribes and Jews who had signed the Medina Pact, seeing the weak position of Muslims, secretly joined hands with the Quraiysh and started conspiring against the Muslims. They even planned the murder of the prophet.

Only two years after Uhad, Muslims had to fight another big battle for their survival. The unity of the infidels of Arabia and the Jewish tribes, strengthened the hand of Abu Suffyan who was able to muster a large force of 10,000 warriors, fully armed and equipped, ready to march towards Medina.

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The battle which ensued is called by Quran as the battle of Ahzab i.e, the battle against confederates. In history it is also known as the Battle of Trench because of a big trench which Muslims dug for their defence. Prior to the narration of this battle, it is essential to write about the reforms, which the prophet brought about in the Islamic society, and his teachings about the purification of human soul. Also is important a brief study of the prophet‟s personal and family life and matters relating to Ahle-e-Bait i.e, his family.

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Chapter - 8 Social Reforms (3rd Hijri to 9th Hijri)

Starting from the Muslim victory of Badar in 2nd Hijri to the Pact of Hudaibiya in 6th Hijri, Muslims lived in the shadow of battles. Not only the infidels of Quraiysh tribes but all other Arab tribes along with Jews and hypocrites, all had one point agenda that of destroying the new found Islamic state. From a cursory look at this era, it appears that the prophet was only busy in fighting his enemies and living by the sword. A layman would also form similar impression from the events mentioned in the books written of this period. But the Quran portrays a different picture and indicates that although prophet was busy in fighting the enemies but he was also fully active carrying out social reforms. He was fully alive to the demands of human social environment and therefore relentlessly pursued social reforms and purification of his follower‟s souls, which was an essential tenet of Islam.

Many verses in Surah Mohammad (47), Anfal (8), Baqarah (2), Nisa (4), Noor (24) and Ahzab (33), were revealed in the first six years of migration i.e, (1st to 6th Hijri). Divine Guidance was given in these verses on the principles of cultural, social, economical, judicial and political laws essential for Islamic system of life. Whatever Guidance and Instructions were received by the prophet they were enforced by him.

Below is a brief summary of those instructions and guidance.

The Rights of Orphans and Widows:

After the Ghazwah-e-Uhad the big problem was that of the widows and orphans. Those who had been martyred left behind their families and the question arose who was to take the responsibilitiy for their sustenance? What were their rights in the Islamic state? How would their assets be divided amongst their heirs? Such were the questions coming and Allah had revealed the answers in Surah Baqarah.

Al-Quran They ask you about orphans, tell them: “improving their lot is much better. If Surah Baqarah-2 you take interest in their affairs, they are your brethren. Verse: 220

Al-Quran Do not oppress the orphans. Surah Ad-Duha-93 Verse: 9

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Al-Quran Do not entrust their property, which God has given you to maintain (on trust) to Surah Baqarah-2 those who are immature, but feed them and clothe them with it, and speak to Verse: 5-6 them with kindness.

Try the orphans until they are of marriageable age. If you find they have acquired sound judgment, then hand over their property to them. But do not devour their wealth, nor use it up hastily out of fear that soon they will grow up (and demand it). The guardian who is rich should abstain from spending much (of their wealth), and he who is poor should use only as much as fair.

When you return back their property (possession) to them, have it witnessed. Remember God is sufficient to take all account. Al-Quran Give to orphans their property and do not substitute your worthless things for Surah Baqarah-2 their good ones. Do not devour their property (by intermixing) it with your Verse: 2 own. Verily this is a great crime.

Al-Quran If you fear that, you cannot deal justly with the orphans then marry women who Surah Baqarah-2 seem good to you. Verse: 3 (the guardian of an orphan girl can marry her provided he is just and fair to her and gives her all conjugal rights).

It was a custom in Arab society that the guardians of the orphans in general took over their assets and misappropriated same by mixing them with their own in such a manner that their wealth grew and that of the orphans decreased.

Sometimes they married orphan girls or widows for their money and afterwards misused or swindled it. If their wives had property, it too was seized by them. There was no limit to the wives, ten or twelve was common, but they refused to marry poor, helpless widows or orphans.

But after the revelation of these verses of Quran, Muslims adhered to the guidance provided by the prophet.

Marriage with Widows:

Many of the prophet‟s companions married those widows whose sustenance was difficult, as they had no supporter. The prophet himself married HafsaR in 3rd Hijri as her husband was martyred in Badr. After Uhad he married SalmaR, as her injured husband died in Medina. Then in 4th Hijri he married Zainab Binte Khazyma whose husband Abdullah Ibne Hajsh died in Uhad.

Codes of respect:

The 6th and 7th century AD is considered a dark era in history of civilizations, but perhaps the worst of them was the Arab society.

Besides their illiteracy, they had all other vices, which blemished the face of their society. This was the reason Allah sent a Messenger from amongst them to reform their society, and to purify 300 their souls. It looked like an impossible mission, a task which may need centuries to accomplish; but the prophet successfully completed it within a short period of about ten years.

The book of guidance revealed to the prophet by his Lord (Quran), carried in it the code of conduct for all humanity. This Book not only spoke about the social vices and problems in an unambiguous manner, but also laid down important codes of behaviors to bring dignity to the society. After the prophet enforced this code of conduct, the things he forbade became forbidden forever in the religion of God; and the things he permitted became permissible for all times to come.

Though laws and principles of this Code of conduct have been given in the holy Quran at various places, but those particularly related to this subject-matter are mentioned in the six Surahs which were revealed in Medina after the migration. (i). Al-Baqarah (2nd Surah): More than half of it was revealed in the initial years of migration. (ii). Al-Nisa (4th Surah): It was revealed during the period 3rd Hijri till 5th Hijri. (iii). Al-Mai’da (5th Surah): It was revealed after Peace Pact of Hudaibya in the end of 6th Hijri till the beginning of 7th Hijri. (iv). Al-Ahzab (33rd Surah): Which was revealed in 5th Hijri after Surah Al-Noor. (v). Al-Noor (24th Surah): It was revealed after the battle of Ahzab. (vi). Al-Hujrat (49th Surah): It was revealed in 9th Hijri.

Those Surahs are particularly prominent in dealing with subjects related with culture, ethics, morals and civil rights. Many interpreters call Surah Hujrat as Surah Ikhlas (which means selfless adoration). The very first words of this Surah call for respect of prophet MuhammadS which binds both the ruler and the ruled, the rich and the poor alike. In an Islamic state it is the duty of every citizen to respect and honor the Messenger of Allah.

Major portion of Arab population lived in deserts. They had their typical tribal culture and were called Beduins. Their customs and traditions were so dear to them that they were not prepared to change them at any price. Their ethics was weak, knowledge neglible, conversation rugged, manner blunt, crude, rigid and uncultured. In short they led a coarse, primitive beduin life.

The second largest group among the Arab population was that of Jews. Their wealth bred arrogance and pride in them to such an extent that they neither cared about the prophet nor did they have any regard for their fellow Arabs who were Muslims.

Although the conduct and personality of the prophet was such that he earned respect from all. He was the “Role Model” for humanity, he did not misbehave or mistreat the Beduins, nor did he

301 treat the Jews harshly or bitterly. Although Jews were sometimes indecent to him but the prophet always spoke gently and tried to explain everything politely again and again, without losing his temper. To make people realize the importance of respecting prophet, God Almighty revealed verses again and again:

Al-Quran Verily God and His angels send blessings on the prophet. Surah Ahzab-33 O you who believe, send blessings on him and greet him with a worthy Verse: 56 greeting.

Al-Quran Verily they alone are true believers who believe in God and His messenger and Surah Al-Noor-24 when they are with him on a matter requiring collective action, they do not Verse: 62 depart until they seek his permission.

Verily those who seek your permission are they who believe in God and His messenger. So when they seek your permission for some affair of theirs, give permission to whomsoever of them you please, and seek pardon for them from God. Verily God is oft-forgiving, merciful.

Al-Quran Do not make addressing of the messenger among you like your addressing one Surah Al-Noor-24 another. verily God knows those of you who steal away, hiding themselves Verse: 63 (quiet disappearance of those who were unwilling to attend the assemblies summoned by the prophet). Let those who act in contravention of his command beware, lest a trial befalls

them or a painful chastisement comes upon them.

Al-Quran O you who believe, do not lead forward before God sends his messenger (in Surah Al-Hujurat-49 any event), and fear (His wrath). Verily God is all-hearing, all-knowing. Verse: 1

Verse: 2 O you who believe, do not raise your voices above the voice of the prophet, and do not speak loudly to him as you do with one another lest all your good deeds become vain while you do not perceive.

Verse: 3 Verily they who lower their voices in the presence of the messenger of God are those whose hearts God has tested through piety (Taqwa). For them is

forgiveness and a great recompense. Verse: 4-5 Verily those who call you from outside the private chambers, most of them do not have understanding. If they patiently wait until you come out to them, it would certainly be better for them. Verily God is oft-forgiving, merciful.

Al-Quran O you who believe, do not say to the prophet Ra’ina, but say Anzurna and take Surah Baqarah-2 heed. There is a grievous punishment for the disbelievers. Verse: 104

The Holy Quran, Some Jewish people mockingly used to address the prophet by the Arabic word Translation: S.V. Ra’ina meaning stupid. Mir Ahmed Ali Aqa This they did by twisting the word Raina which meant “listen to us”. Therefore Mahdi Puya. the word Anzurna was suggested, which meant “look upon us”. Page: 109

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Respect of the Prophet‟s Home and that of His Family:

The uncultured Arabs had a strange habit that they visited the houses of each other irrespective of the time, nor did they seek permission to enter from the owner of the house. Sometimes they would ask for an object of their need, but at other times they would pick up what they needed and depart, least bothered to seek permission from the rightful owner.

During the initial stage of Islamic state the same custom was prevailing. Muslims would enter without any hesitation the prophet‟s home. Neither did they respect his home nor his privacy, nor the privacy of his family members. They would enter the rooms of his wives and ask for whatever they needed. When invited for meal in prophet‟s house, they would not care about time. To discipline them and to make them respect the prophet, God revealed the following:

Al-Quran  you who believe, do not enter the houses of the prophet for meal without Surah Ahzab-33 awaiting the proper time (of its preparation). Enter when you are invited and Verse: 53 when you have taken your meal, disperse without seeking familiar talk. Verily this annoys the prophet and he feels embarrassed (to ask you to depart). But God does not feel embarrassed in saying the truth.  If you ask of them (prophet‟s wives) anything, ask of them from behind a curtain. It is purer for your hearts and for their hearts.  It is not lawful for you that you should annoy the messenger of God, and not

lawful that you should ever marry his wives after him. Verily this is a grave offence in the sight of God.

Al-Quran (God‟s lamp is lit) in houses which God has permitted to be exalted and His Surah Al-Noor-24 name to be remembered therein. He is glorified therein in the mornings and in Verses: 36 the evenings.

The Holy Quran, By the word “Houses” is meant the House of the prophet and his family and the Translation: S.V. mosques of Ka’ba, Medina and Quba, and the mosque of Jerusalem built by Mir Ahmed Ali Aqa prophets DavidA and SolomonA. Mahdi Puya. Page: 779

Tafseer-e-Namumah Following the Divine guidance and as ordained by the Almighty Lord, prophet Page: 93 MuhammadS had the doors of his houses opened into the Mosque. His daughter FatimaA‟s house was also among those houses whose doors opened into the mosque. The sanctity of FatimaA‟s house was such that even Angel GabrielA had to ask permission for entering it.

The traditions of “Cloak” provides evidence about Angel GabrielA seeking permission to enter:

Tafseer-e-Namunah It is narrated by prophet‟s wife AyeshaR: Page: 253 “I saw with my own eyes that the prophet gathered AliA, FatimaA, HassanA and HussainA under a cloak and said:

“O Allah! These are my Ahlal-Bayt and are my helpers and supporters. Keep away all impurities from them, and make them as pure as a thorough purification can be. The same moment Angel Gabriel descended and sought permission from the prophet to enter. Prophet granted the permission. Angel GabrielA then revealed 303

the following:

Al-Quran Verily, God intends but to keep off from you all kinds of uncleanness O you the Surah Ahzab-33 Ahlal-Bayt, and purify you with a thorough purification. Verse: 33

Muslims therefore paid their homage and respect to the houses of prophet by bowing their heads when they passed by. Once when this code of respect was broken by a delegation of Banu Tamim who came to Medina to meet the prophet, and when infront of the house of prophet, Bani Tamim started shouting: “O Muhammd! Come out”, this screaming and shouting hurt the prophet. Still he came out and spoke to them politely, and paid full attention to their demands. But the Lord knew the inner feelings of the prophet as He is the One who hears even that which is in our hearts. Almighty Lord reveled the following verses:

Al-Quran Verily those who call you from outside your private chambers, they do not Surah Hujrat-49 understand. If they be patient until you come out to them, it would be better for Verses: 4-5 them certainly. Verily God is oft-forgiving, merciful.

These verses on one hand consoled the prophet and on the other hand the merciful Lord gave an opportunity to the uncultured Bani Tamim to wash off their sin by asking pardon from the Lord.

Respect for the Wives of the Prophet:

Al-Quran Prophet (Muhammad) has a greater authority over the believers than they have Surah Ahzab-33 on their own selves. His wives are as their mothers. Verse: 6

This verse reflects the extent of respect of the prophet, which is required to exist in the hearts of the believers, and it makes it mandatory for the believers to consider prophet‟s wives as their mothers.

Al-Quran If you ask of them (prophet‟s wives) anything, ask of them from behind a Surah Ahzab-33 curtain. It is purer for your hearts and for their hearts. Verse: 53 It is not lawful for you that you should annoy the messenger of God, nor you should ever marry his wives after him. Verily this is a grave offence in the sight of God.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 This is the verse which is called verse of “Hijab”. Anus Bin MalikR states that Page: 121 after this verse, curtains were hung at the doors of prophet‟s houses. Apart from the Mahram (a person closely related) all others were to ask from behind the curtain if they needed anything from prophet‟s wives. As houses of the prophet were an example and ideal for the followers, hence Medina city soon saw curtains hanging from all the doors of the believers.

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Prophet‟s Wives as Role-models:

Surah Ahzab the 33rd chapter of the Quran was revealed in 5th Hijri. This year is of special significance in the social and cultural development of the Islamic State of Medina; as nearly all the Commands about the Social Reforms were revealed in this year. Since the believing women looked upto prophet‟s wives as Role-models, therefore revelations descended one after the other to guide prophet‟s wives to prepare them for their role.

The Creator had crowned them with the title of “Mothers of the faithful”, bestowing great honor and dignity upon them. This heavenly title in turn demanded a high standard of devotion, righteousness and piety from them. They had to rise above the prevailing culture of Arab women. In that culture women moved about in the streets and markets freely without Hijab.

Those who loved jewelry and could afford it, displayed it freely in public places. They loved worldly life. These elite women hardly ever thought of simple living and economically managing their households. Prophet‟s wives had to be different from them, they had to live according to the dictates of Almighty Lord laid down in Quran, which were based on promulgation of virtue and prevention of vice. They had to be “example-setters” so as to reform the believing women who always looked towards them.

The Almighty Lord therefore asked the prophet to convey to his wives:

Al-Quran O prophet Muhammad, say to your wives: “If you desire the life and pomp of Surah Ahzab-33 this world, come I will provides you handsomely, and then let you depart with Verses: 28 to 34 an honorable release. But if you desire God, His messenger and the abode of the hereafter, then verily God has prepared for those who are good among you, a great recompense”. “O wives of the prophet, whosoever of you commit manifest indecency, her punishment will be doubled. This is easy for God. But whosoever of you is obedient to God and His messenger, and does good, We will give her recompense twice over, and We have prepared for her an honorable sustenance”. “O wives of the prophet, you are not like other women. If you have fear of God, do not be too obliging in your speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease may lust after you. Speak a customary speech”.

Prophet‟s wives tried to live up to the standard required of them, a life of simplicity and piety. They tried to prove themselves worthy of being called “Mothers of believers”.

The Almighty Lord had blessed them with the promise of recompense of twice over their good deeds, but also warned them of double punishment over bad deeds. This was enough for the wives of prophet to stay on guard and follow the course of piety and simplicity

The adoption of ZaydR by prophet:

Tafseer-e-Namunah It was customary with Arabs that they adopted male kids, gave them the status Page: 174 of their own child and called them their sons. (Girls were never adopted). Thus 305

all rights of an offspring from a biological father were bestowed upon them. These adopted son‟s became their heirs. The father was not permitted marrying the son‟s wife and vice versa. Islam discarded this rationale and Allah revealed

these verses:

Al-Quran God has not made your adopted sons your real sons. This is only your saying Surah Ahzab-33 by your mouths. God speaks the truth and guides you to the right way. Call Verses: 4-5 them by the names of their fathers. It is more just in the sight of God. But if you do not know their fathers, then they are your brothers in faith and your friends. It shall not be a sin if you make a mistake unless you do so intentionally. God is forgiving merciful.

Despite this Command its implementation was very difficult, as the custom of adoption had its roots in the century old traditions. Allah initiated the end of it through the prophet, the details of which are as under:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 The nephew of KhadijaR, Hakeem Bin Hazaam, bought a slave in the fair of Pages: 99 to 102 Akhaaz. He was an eight year old boy, belonging to the Bani Kalb tribe, his Summary father‟s name was Harris Bin Sharjeel. This child had been kidnapped by dacoits and then sold in the slave market. Hakeem gave him to his aunt KhadijaR, and she gave him in the service of the prophet. The boy was fifteen then. Meanwhile his parents (who had been searching for him) learnt that he was in Mecca. They came and visited the prophet and offered ransom for freedom of their son. ZaydR refused to leave the prophet, who was impressed by his show of devotion and declared there and then that he is freeing the boy without ransom and ZaydR will be known as his son in future. Thus ZaydR Bin Harsa became known as ZaydR Bin MohammadS. This incident took place before prophethood of MohammadS. When he announced his prophet-hood, ZaydR immediately accepted Islam with full conviction. Thus he belonged to the first group of Muslims. After migration the prophet wanted in 4th Hijri to marry ZaydR. He asked for the hand of his cousin ZainabR fror ZaydR, ZainabR was the daughter of Imama Binte Abdul Muttalib. But ZainabR and her brothers did not agree to this match as ZainabR belonged to a respectful clan of Banu Hashim, whereas ZaydR was a freed slave. But the proposal of the prophet was actually the Divine Will. Angel GabrielA descended with the following verse:

Al-Quran And it is not for a believing man or a believing woman to have any choice in Surah Ahzab-33 their affair when God and his messenger have decided a matter. Whoever Verse: 36 disobeys God and his messenger has indeed strayed with a manifest straying.

The Holy Quran, When ZainabR binte-Hajsh and her brothers heard this, they obeyed. ZainabR Translation: S.V. was married to ZaydR. The Islamic principle of equality was made manifest to Mir Ahmed Ali Aqa all the believers, thus ending the ancient traditions of inequality which forbade Mahdi Puya. Page: 808 the marriage of a lower class man despite his character, moral and religious standing, with a women of a respected family. ZainabR obeyed the command of Allah and the prophet, but in her heart she could not accept ZaydR as her husband. Their married life was trouble-some 306

and relations bitter. The strain proved unbearable for ZaydR to such an extent, that despite the disapproval of the prophet he divorced ZainabR after a year. The prophet had tried to prevent separation between them because ZainabR‟s reputation would be scarred after the divorce. Thereafter ZainabR‟s misery as a widow began to disturb the family of Banu Hashim. In fact ZainabR‟s parents had wanted to give her hand to the holy prophet right from the beginning. But she was married to ZaydR at prophet‟s command. Now her brothers and she asked the prophet to marry her. At this juncture, the Almighty Lord revealed the following:

Al-Quran When you said to him (Zayd), who had been favoured by God and was Surah Ahzab-33 favoured by you: “keep your wife to yourself and fear God”, you were hiding Verses: 37-38 something which God was about to bring to light, you had fear of men, though you should fear God more. When Zayd set her free, We gave her in marriage to you, so that believers should not face difficulties about the wives of their adopted sons when they have divorced them. The command of God must be fulfilled. There is no blame on prophet in what God ordained fort him. This has been the way of God with those who have gone before. The command of God is a decree irrevocable.

These verses clearly and in unambiguous terms tell that things happened in accordance with Divine Will because the Arabs were reluctant and found it difficult to break the shackles of ancient custom. The only thing which could have persuaded and obliged them to abandon this custom was the personal act of the prophet. Thus Allah through revelation gave the prophet direct orders:

1. Stop calling Zayd as Zayd Bin MohammadS, instead call him by the surname of his biological father, and call him Zayd Bin Harsa. 2. On Divine Command the prophet married ZainabR the divorcee of ZaydR.

Prophet arranged feast of Valima and invited Muhajirin and Ansar.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 At this feast some guests acted impolitely and stayed back late in the night and Page: 120 talked incessantly. The prophet was dismayed yet his decency prevented him from saying anything, but Allah disliking this act, ordained:

Al-Quran O you who believe, do not enter the house of prophet for a meal without Surah Ahzab-33 awaiting for the proper time. Enter when you are invited, and when you have Verses: 53 taken meals, disperse without seeking familiar talk. Verily this annoys the prophet.

It should be noted here that Allah had clearly ordained the marriage of ZainabR-binte-Hajsh with the prophet. The purpose of this was to end the taboo of not marrying the wife of an adopted son. But the non-Muslims got on opportunity of defaming prophet on this account and to worsen the situation, hypocrites joined them, giving it a color of a romantic wedding. They did not pay heed to the Divine Revelation on which the prophet acted.

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Among the Islamic writers Waqidi was the one who wrote about this event in a fiction-like manner describing it like a romantic wedding and ignoring the fact that it was the command of the Almighty Lord.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Maulana Shibly writes that the historian Tabari of Tareekh-e-Tabari has taken Page: 247 this episode from Waqidi. Waqidi was a liar and perjurer. By relating such stories his aim was to provide the Abbasi rulers with legitimacy and validation for their colorful activities.

To understand this episode in it‟s right perspective it is extremely important to understand the verses of holy Quran cited above i.e, 33:4-5, 33:36 and 33:37-38.

Verse 33:37 provides an indication that prophet MuhammadS had hidden a desire of his heart when he commanded ZaydR to marry ZainabR. This desire could have been the liking of prophet for ZainabR. If it was so then in the very beginning prophet could have married ZainabR without bringing ZaydR in the picture. The family members of Zainab also wanted the hand of ZainabR to be given to prophet in marriage. But Almighty Lord did not Will it this way.

The Will of God was first to break the shackles of deep rooted custom of “Adoption” through the personal example of prophet MuhammadS so as to give it the highest order of acceptance by his followers. Revelation therefore descended that God had not made adopted sons as the real sons. They should be called by the names of their fathers (33:4-5). From then on, ZaydR was called as Zayd-bin-Harsa and not Zayd-bin-MiuhammadS.

After this goal was accomplished, the Will of God was the marriage of ZaydR with ZainabR (33:36), so as to demolish the complex of high and low status and promote the culture of respect on the basis of Taqwa (piety). This marriage took place under the direct command of the Almighty Lord (33:36).

After this goal was achieved the Will of God was the marriage of prophet with ZainabR so as to break the taboo of “Marriage with the wife of adopted son”. The solemnization of this marriage was a gift of God to the prophet, gratifying him for sacrificing his sentiments with no regrets, and submitting to the Will of God with full devotion.

The number of prophet‟s wives:

It was a fact that the prophet already had four wives when he married ZainabR Binte Hajsh, after two of his wives had died.

Name Year Death 1. KhadijaR Binte Khawlyd. Married in the 25th year of the 10th year of prophethood. elephant.

2. SaudaR Binte Zam‟a. 10th year of Prophethood.

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3. AyeshaR Binte Abu BakrR. Shawwal 2nd Hijri. 4. HafsaR Binte UmerR. Sha’aban 3rd Hijri. 5. ZainabR Binte Khuzema. 4th Hijri. 4th Hijri. 6. Umme SalmaR. Shawwal 4th Hijri 7. ZainabR Binte Hajsh Ziquad 5th Hijri

Because the Almighty Lord had allowed not more than four wives to a believer (4:3, see below), the Hypocrites started a propaganda against the prophet for getting a fifth wife in addition to the living four.

Al-Quran Marry women who seem good to you, two or three or four. If you fear that you Surah Nisa-4 shall not treat so many with equity then marry only one, or (the captive) that Verse: 3 your right hands possess.

Prophet was aware of all this commotion created by the hypocrites, but was silent, awaiting revelation from God. Then angel GabrialA descended with the following verse:

Al-Quran O prophet (Muhammad), verily We have made lawful for you your wives whom Surah Ahzab-33 you have given their dowry; and those whom your right hand possesses out of Verse: 50 those whom God returns to you (without war); and the daughters of your parental uncle and the daughters of your parental aunts, and the daughters of your maternal uncle and the daughters of your maternal aunts, who migrated with you; and a believing women who offers herself to the prophet if the prophet desires to marry her ___a privilege for you only, not for the rest of the believers. We know what We have ordained for them about their wives and those whom their right hand possess, in order that there may be no blame on you. God is forgiving merciful

In this revelation Almighty Lord made it clear that the marriage relaxation was only for the person of prophet MuhammadS and not for the believes in general. This silenced the hypocrites and their mischievous propaganda. At the same time, this also strengthened the hands of the prophet in enhancing his mission by gaining tribal support through his marriages. In Arab culture inter- marriages were the strongest bond between tribes.

Tahfeem-ul-Quran-4 According to the Arabic traditions if a girl of a tribe was married to a man, he Pager: 116 was not only regarded the son-in-law of that family but of the whole tribe. To fight with a son-in-law was regarded as a disgrace.

It may be recalled that after the proclamation of prophet-hood by MohammadS nearly all tribes had joined hands to oppose him. How was he able to break this united opposition through his marriages is worth probing. His biggest opposition was from Quraiysh, whose different branches except Bahu Hashim, were opposing him. Some writers have however tried to see these marriages as a sign of emotional weakness of the prophet; but this is only a prejudiced view:

Spirit of Islam The first fact is that the prophet married KhadijaR prior to prophet-hood, when Syed Ameer Ali he was 25. She was much older to him (it is believed that she was 40). Despite Page: 372 this the prophet spent a happy settled life of 25 years with her. Their life was 309

blissful, contented, full of love, care and faithfulness.

He did not marry another woman during that period; despite the fact that if he would have married another woman, nobody would have criticized it. After the death of KhadijaR, from the beginning of the 11th year of prophet-hood till 8th Hijri, during these 11 years the prophet married 11 women. The details are as under.

Name Tribe Year of Age Status at Marriage Marriage 1. SaudaR binte Zama‟a Quraiysh 11th year of -- Widow of Sakuan prophethood 2. AyeshaR Binte Abu BakrR Quraiysh 2nd Hijri 12 years Unmarried 3. Hafsa binte Umer FarooqR Quraiysh 3rd Hijri 22 years Widow

4. ZainabR binte Khuzema Quraiysh 4th Hijri 30 years Widow of Abdullah Hajsh 5. Umme SalmaR binte Sohail Quraiysh 4th Hijri 26 years Widow 6. ZainabR binte Hajsh Quraiysh 5th Hijri 38 years Divorcee of ZayedR 7. JaveriaR binte Haris Bani Mustlq 6th Hijri 21 years Prisoner of war, 8. Umme HabibaR freed by ransom binte Abu Suffyan Quraiysh 7th Hijri 37 years Divorcee 9. SafiyaR binte Hayee Banu Nadyr (Jewish) 7th Hijri -- Prisoner of war, Khayber 10. Mariya QubtyaR Egyptian 7th Hijri -- Sent as gift by the King 11. MemoonaR binte Haris Quraiysh 7th Hijri 50 years Widow

Two facts are worth noting in this chart:

1. Out of the 11 wives of the prophet seven belonged to various clans of the Quraiysh Tribe. 2. Three of them (HafsaR, ZainabR Bin Khuzema and Umme SalmaR) were those whose husbands had been martyred in battles fighting in the way of Allah. They were left behind alone and helpless.

Two of them (SaudaR and Umme HabibaR) had migrated from Mecca to Ethiopia to escape torture due to their conversion to Islam. The husband of SaudaR died and she had no supporter. The husband of Umme HabibaR was a cousin of the prophet (from paternal side) he embraced Christianity in Ethiopia, where he had migrated as a Muslim. She was left alone in foreign land, when she did return the prophet married her to provide shelter. ZainabR Binte Hajsh was a divorcee and her age was 38 years at the time of her marriage.

MemoonaR was also a cousin of the prophet and was a widow, having no one to look after her in Mecca. She was more than 50 years of age at the time of her marriage. Javeria was the daughter of the chief of Banu Mustalq, whereas SafiaR was of Jewish descent belonging to Banu Nadyr tribe. MariyaR was sent to the prophet by the ruler of Egypt as a token of respect.

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Amongst all these women only AyeshaR Binte Abu BakrR was unmarried, she was only 12 or 13 years old at the time of her marriage. The rest were those who needed a respectable shelter and life. The majority were widows in dire need of support.

Marrying seven women of the Quraiysh, the prophet cemented his relations with these clans of Quraiysh and weakened their opposition. The greatest example is of Abu Suffyan, whose daughter Umme HabibaR became prophet‟s wife. When he heard about his daughter‟s marriage, he instantly remarked:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 “Mohammad is like that he-camel, which cannot be bridled”. Page: 354 History stands witness that after that Abu Suffyan refrained from open-enmity.

Apart from the Quraiysh, both JaveriaR and SafiaR were the daughters of the chiefs of their tribes and came as war prisoners in Ghazwah Bani Mustalq and Khyber. Yet they themselves readily accepted marrying the prophet, who paid their ransom, got them freed and then married them.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 As a result of the prophet‟s marriage with Javeria, people freed all those other Page: 233 prisoners of her tribe who were held by them as slaves, saying that a tribe in which prophet had married, its members could not remain as slaves. The result

was the whole tribe became an ally of the Muslims.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 SafiaR was Jewish, belonging to the tribe Banu Nadyr. She was the daughter of Page: 116 the tribal chief Hayee Bin Akhtb; and was the wife of Rabbi of Khyber. Her father and husband died in the battle of Khyber and the prophet paid her ransom. She then requested and he married her. Making her a member of his exalted family, he bestowed such honor upon her, that the Jews were impressed, and their enmity reduced.

Among all those who gained the respectful status of being the prophet‟s wives, none was forced into marriage, all readily and happily accepted the prophet as their husband.

But western writers and also some those Muslims who proudly call themselves liberals and enlightened ones, have criticized the prophet‟s marriages. This is unfortunate and unfair.

Spirit of Islam But when we study these marriages we find them a result of personal sacrifice Syed Ameer Ali and compassion. At least Muslims should realize that finger pointing at the Pages: 378-380 prophet is somewhat a sin. They should have the understanding that the real aim and purpose of these marriages had been defaced by unjust writers and malice of the vindictive enemies.

Even from humanitarian point of view, the intension underlying these marriages was to provide respect and sustenance to the helpless widows. By making them a member of his family, he provided the desolate women relief and made life easier for them by following the age-long traditions of his people and land.

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Hijab for women (5th and 6th Hijri):

The wives of the prophet were to be the role-models of all Muslim women. The verses of Hijab when revealed, were therefore to the wives of the prophet and through them to the believing women:

O prophet Muhammad, tell your wives and daughters and the women of the Al-Quran believers that they should let down upon them their wrapping garments, in order Surah Ahzab-33 to distinguish them from others, so that they will not be troubled, God is Verse: 59 forgiving, merciful.

Al-Quran And say to the believing women to lower their eyes, guard their private –parts, Surah Al-Noor-24 and not display their adornment save what is apparent outwardly, draw their Verse: 31 veils over their bosoms, and not to display their adornment except to their: Husbands or their fathers, or the fathers of their husbands, or their sons, or the sons of their husbands, or their brothers, or those whom their right hand possesses, or male servants free of sexual needs, or children not yet conscious of women‟s private parts. Let them not strike their feet so as to make known what they hide of their adornment. O believers, turn you all together repentant to God in order that you may be successful.

The background:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 Prior to Islam, during the period of ignorance, the Arab women coming out of Page: 386 their houses used to cover their heads with scarfs, which they tied behind their heads under their hair. Their hairs therefore were not covered at the back. They

never had a coverlet or a veil.

Tafseer-e-Namuna17 Dressed in the manner like other Arab women, when Muslim women entered Page: 353 the mosques for prayers in evenings and in nights when they came out after the prayers, some vagabonds sitting on the roadside teased them. They whistled and passed degrading remarks. When they were admonished they replied: “We do not tease Muslim women, we tease those women we think are maids and slaves or immoral”.

Then the 59th verse of Surah Ahzab was revealed:

Al-Quran O prophet Muhammad, tell your wives and daughters and the women of the Surah Ahzab-33 believers that hey should let down upon them their wrapping garments, in order Verse: 59 to distinguish them from others, so that they will not be troubled, God is forgiving, merciful.

God Almighty also commanded men to stay away from inciting emotions by lowering their gaze:

Al-Quran Say (O Muhammad) to the believing men to lower their eyes and guard their Surah-Al-Noor-24 Verse: 30 private parts. That is purer for them. Verily God is aware of what they do. 312

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 After the revelation of Hijab verses the believing women in Medina had started Page: 386-387 using a wrapper garment along with a scarf. It is narrated by Wahya Kalby that the prophet received a piece of fine Egyptian muslin. The prophet tore a piece from it and giving it to me he said: “Make your shirt from a part of this piece and give the other part to your wife to make a wrapper out of it, but ask her to give a lining to it as it is transparent”. . This was how the Muslim women followed the revelation of Hijab verses and this was how the prophet explained it.

As regards the covering of the head, the Arab women had always covered their heads. The Jewish and Christian women too always wore a scarf. Infact it had been the teaching of all prophets of God that women had to cover their heads with scarf. Quranic verse do not speak specifically about head-cover because it was already a part of women‟s dress which was required to cover the body from the gaze of men. Quranic verse 24:31 specifically asks believing women to draw their veils over their bosoms and not to display their adornment. To meet this command of the Lord, prophet guided believing women to use Wrapper-garments for covering bosoms and necks so as not to display their adornments. The head-cover or the scarf naturally remained the part of the normal dress of the believing women.

It is important to note that Quranic verses do not speak about covering the face, instead Quran asks both females and males to lower their eyes.

It is worth noting that, because verses of Hijab are directive from the Lord imposing bindings on women, therefore unbelievers have enjoyed projecting them as “Curtailment of women freedom”. This attitude of unbelievers has assumed a great importance in today‟s world as it has appealed to a vast majority of women. Nevertheless question arises, how true is this standpoint of unbelievers?

If we think for a while, we will realize that instead of being a curtailment of freedom of women, these bindings of the Lord are infact a blessing in disguise for them. Consider the fact that females have been exploited by males throughout history, in the past as well as the present.

In the past, their exploitation was either for possessing them, or protecting them from other males by confining them in houses and covering them from top to bottom, or harassing them to coerce them into compliance etc.

The exploitation of females in current times is in a much different way. In the name of freedom in the modern age, females have been enticed in Electronic media, print media, in business and almost everywhere. Females, by and large, also fell for the attractive slogan of freedom and jumped over-anxiously on the band wagon of “Freedom for women”. They hardly bothered to hear the voice of their conscience and cared little about their inborn instincts of modesty, self-respect, desire of true love, making a loving home and raising a loving family. Their rate race of freedom culminated in the necessity of increasing their earning capacity and pursuance of this goal with unrestricted freedom, caring little for moral values, respect and honor.

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Question arises, what did females achieve out of this freedom? Money and status, yes, but what did they lose? Their biggest losses are, the Home, the family and true love, and as a byproduct of these loses, they ended up with broken homes and a highly self-centered and selfish male –female culture which has little to offer for mutual respect and sacrifice.

Let us not forget, the primary reason of creating the male-female duo by the Lord was that human race should psychologically develop and progress through the institution of Home. That is why females were blessed by the Lord with all the characteristics and instincts to superbly manage the Home, while males were blessed with qualities of toughness and strength to toil, protect and sustain the Home. The Lord had planned the male to be the bread earner and the rower of the boat of Home, and the female to be the direction-setter and manager. Together, both had to raise their family in a befitting manner under the protective shield of the Home.

This pattern of life was preached by all prophets of God and their religions, be it Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, or Islam. A dress-code of modesty was laid out by them for females for covering their body and head as a protection against harassment, exploitation etc. but unfortunately, females gave it up themselves under the illusion of freedom, and contributed to their own misery.

In today‟s world, if females join hands to live as God wished them to live, and resist exploitation of both kinds, that of past and present, then they will surely see the fruit of their efforts coming forth, and their exploitation trending towards an end. This is the promise of the Lord.

This however does not mean that females should be confined to their homes, No not at all. They should also work to enhance the family income if need be, but not at the cost of breakage of “Homes”.

The Rights and Responsibilities of Women:

Tafseer-e-Namuna2 Human Social History provides evidence that women have been the most down- Page: 95 trodden among humans. Men have always treated them as slaves or like property. In Arabia women were maltreated and disgraced in many ways. Except a few

tribes, the majority had strange customs; such as, women being given on payment to other men, so that they could earn for their husbands. Lack of civil sense, poverty and ignorance made Arabs behave in strange ways, mostly in an offensive and rude manner. The Arab mostly looked down upon women, so much so that the birth of a daughter was regarded as a shameful event and to free one-self from this stigma, she was buried alive as soon as she took birth.

Spirit of Islam This horrible custom was more prevalent in Quraiysh and Kandah tribes. The Syed Ameer Ali prophet had scorned and condemned this custom, while still in Mecca, during Page: 366 his first years of prophet-hood. He had warned about a great punishment from God for those who acted upon these customs, and followed the tradition of offering children for sacrifice to idols.

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In such an environment Islam proved a blessing for the women as in the newly established Islamic State they were given rights which had been denied to them since centuries. The male high handedness was abolished by the Shariah of the prophet, Allah declared:

Al-Quran Whoever is good, whether male or female, and is a believer, We shall certainly Surah Nahl-16 make him or her live a pure and good life, and shall certainly give them their Verse: 97 return from the best of what they were doing.

The male supremacy is due to his physical strength and the responsibility he has been assigned of supporting, providing sustenance, and protecting the females and family.

In the Quran wherever the words “O humans” ( ) or “O believers” ( ) are used, they address both male and female alike. Moreover, wherever Allah promises something to mankind, that something is for both, males and females. This indicates that in the eyes of God, both males and females are equal as far as their deeds, their rewards and their punishments are concerned.

Al-Quran Whosoever does evil shall not be requited except the like of it (he or she shall be Surah Momin-40 punished). Whosoever, male or female, does good and is a believer, shall enter Verse: 40 the Paradise, where subsistence without measures will be given.

In short in Muslim society both men and women are equally important members. God had made them to have equitable rights in society with only difference that the right of one becomes the responsibility of the other. There is no one way traffic, both are bound by rights and responsibilities.

These aspects of female-male relationships have been explained at length in Surah Al-Baqarah- 2, verses 236 to 257; Surah Nisa-34, verses 19 to 25; Surah Ahzab-33, Verses 32 to 54 and 59; Surah Al-Noor-24, verses 4 to 26 and 30,31,33. These verses speak about the rights and responsibilities of all women (free and slaves) and speak about their status and role in society and family. The prophet implemented the commands issued by the above revelations, the underlying theme of which was to give respect, honor and rights to women and to tell them their responsibilities as well. How high the prophet held the women, is evident from his sayings, for example:

“Their paradise lies beneath their mother‟s feet” “The birth of a daughter is a Divine Blessing”. About his own daughter FatimaA, he had declared: “She is the leader of all women, in paradise”.

Zihar, Divorce and Khula’: Zihar:

Zihar was an ancient Arabic tradition which continued till the initial years of Islam. According to this custom if a husband had a disagreement with his wife and in anger he said: “From today you are to me as the back of my mother”. 315

Saying this meant that the husband disowned the wife. Although the husband continued to live in the same house, but neither he freed the wife nor gave her the rights of a wife. This agony for the wife sometimes continued for years.

Tafseer-e-Namuna23 In 5th Hijri when an Ansar woman by the name of Khula-binte Thalaba came Page: 296 and pleaded with the prophet against this cruelty of Zihar, she prayed: Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 “O Allah! You know about my condition that my husband had declared Zihar. Page: 339 Have mercy on me, I have small kids. If I leave them with my husband, they will suffer, if I keep them with myself they will die of hunger”.

Allah revealed: Al-Quran God has indeed heard the statement of the women who pleads with you about Surah Mujadila-58 her husband and complains to God, and verily God hears the contention of both. Verse: 1 Verily God is all hearing, all seeing.

Verse: 2 As to those of you who put away their wives by pronouncing Zihar, they are not their mothers. Their mothers are only those who gave birth to them. They indeed utter a detestable word and a lie. Verily God is pardoning, oft-forgiving.

Verse: 3 Those who put away their wives by pronouncing Zihar and then later wish to go back on the words they uttered, should free a slave before they touch each other. This is that with which you are admonished. Verily God is aware of what you do.

Verse: 4 Whosoever does not have the means of doing so, should fast for two months consecutively before they touch each other. Whomsoever is unable to do so should feed sixty needy persons. This is enjoined so that you may believe in God and His messenger. These are the limits set by God, while for the disbelievers there is a painful chastisement.

Oaths of abstention from wives:

There was another inhuman custom among Arabs that under one pretext or the other the husband would swear of breaking all ties with the wife. After doing this the husband would never set her free. She would live in the same house but would not be treated like a wife, nor would she be divorced. God sent down revelations to forbid this heinous custom.

Al-Quran God will not call you to account for that which is senseless in your oaths, but Surah Baqarah-2 only for what is in your hearts, for God is forgiving and forbearing. Verse: 225

Verse: 226 Those who swear that they will not go to their wives should wait for four months. If they return to them, then God is forgiving, merciful.

Verse: 227 If they have resolved on divorce, then verily God is hearing, knowing.

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Divorce:

The subject of Divorce has been dealt with by Quran in considerable details. Divorce is an act, which has been permitted as a last resort. Following verses of Quran provide the details about various aspects of Divorce:

Surah Al-Baqarah-2: verses 228-232; 236-237, 241-242. Surah Nisa-4: verses 35; 128; 129-130. Surah Talaq-65: verses 1; 2-3; 4-6; 7. Surah Ahzab-33: 49.

The highlights of the details contained in above verses are as follows:  Divorce should be the last choice:- 4:35; 4:128-130.  Divorce should be in three stages with reconciliation periods in between each stage:- 2:228- 230.  Options for reuniting in the reconciliation periods:- 2:231-232.  The final divorce after expiry of all reconciliation periods:- 65:2-3.  Divorce should be made as humane as possible:- 2:236-237, 241-242, 33:49.  Further precautions while exercising divorce:- 65:1.  Special considerations while divorcing pregnant women:- 65: 4-6.

Khula’:

If the husband does not divorce the wife because he wants to harass her, then the wife can ask for divorce herself, by returning the dowry if she had taken it in advance, or by forgoing it. This is called “Khula’”.

Al-Quran There is no blame on either of them about what she gives up to become free. Surah Baqarah-2 These are the limits ordained by God. Verse: 229

Laying foundation of a stable Home:

Almighty Lord revealed a verse, which is superb in eloquence and substance and lays down the foundation of not only a good Home but also an enviable civil society. Quran says:

Al-Quran Verily, God enjoins justice (A‟dl ), doing good (Ihsan ) to others, and Surah Nahl-16 giving to kindred (Aetai’-zil-qurba ). Verse: 90 And forbids lewdness (Fahasha’ ), evil (Munkar ) and rebellion (Bagh’i ). He exhorts you so that you may take heed.

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The Arabic words used in this verse cannot be translated into English. They convey a whole treasure of undeniable truths. They are not words but attitudes. It is narrated by Usman Bin Ma‟zoon that the above mentioned verse was revealed in Mecca prior to migration. He says I was present at that moment, hearing this verse my faith strengthened. Then I repeated the verse before Abu Talib, who (was a renowned poet and a firm believer). He remarked: “O Quraiysh! Follow MohammadS and you will receive the guidance, as he gives you lessons of ethics and morality”.

Then I went to Walyd Bin Mughyra (who also was a renowned poet but a firm unbeliever), and recited the verse. He could not help exclaiming, inspite of his unbelief: “Indeed, these lines are an excellent composition, sweet and eloquent. The branches of their diction are laden with fruits and their roots are deep and firm. No doubt these words are not the sayings of humans”.

The three principles, which guarantee success:- The eloquence of this verse lies in the fact that only with few words God has conveyed His Full Message of Ethics. Quran elaborates the wisdom emanating from this verse at many places. For example children of AdamA are reminded that they are all off-springs of one man and one woman, so they should be just and fair to each other and follow the laws of God:

Al-Quran O people, verily We have created you from a male and a female, and made you Surah Hujrat-49 nations and tribes so that you may recognize each other. Verily the most Verse: 13 honored of you with God is the one who safeguards against evil ( ) with full awareness of Divine laws ( ). Verily God is all knowing, all aware.

Awareness ( ) and piety ( ) are the core of devotion to Allah. ( . . ) justice, doing good to others, and giving to kindred are the principles which form, the core of Taqwa (piety), while Taqwa (piety) is the fulcrum around which the life of a true believer (momin ) revolves. A civil society practicing Taqwa is most loveable to God and most successful in the world and in the Hereafter.

Justice ( ) is the first principle highlighted by the above verse (16:90) which underlines the creation of everything on this earth, the heavens and the universe. Human-beings are commanded by God to [practice justice in all spheres of their life so as to maintain balance in their deeds.

Doing good to others ( ) is the second principle highlighted by the verse. This entails a whole philosophy of kindness, love, and considerate and honorable gestures in one‟s dealings with fellow beings.

Giving to kindred ( ) is the third principle highlighted by the verse which entails the dealing with relatives in a manner of generosity, love, tenderness and care. This shows the devotion, Islam endorses for the family and relatives on which the structure of society and then the whole nation is built.

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The three principles shown above form the foundations of all social reforms brought about by Islam and are at the core of every activity. Starting from the Home, the Family, the Relatives, the Fellow-beings, the social and financial setup of society, and then of Muslim state, the rights and responsibilities of different cadres of people, etc, etc.

Helping and caring the relatives pleases God, ignoring, and looking down upon them angers God. Quran says:

Al-Quran O people, safeguard yourself with full awareness of Divine Laws before God, Surah Nisa-4 who created you from a single self ( ) and created from it it‟s mate, and Verse: 1 from the two of them spread men and women in multitudes. So fear God in whose name you ask of one another (the bond of) relationships. God surely keeps watch over you.

God commands that in a family a high priority should be given to the parents, to their respect and to their needs.

Al-Quran Your Lord has commanded that you shall not worship any but Him, and do good Surah Bani Israel-17 ( ) to the parents. If one or both of them reached old age with you, then do Verse: 23 not say fie to them, nor chide them, but say gentle words to them.

Verse: 24 And lower to them the wings of humility out of compassion and say: “O my Lord, have mercy on them just as they nourished me when I was young”.

The importance of a kind and devoted relationship with parents can be judged from the fact that God speaks about it immediately after commanding humans to worship Him.

Speaking about justice ( ), it may be said that a large majority of ancient Arab customs were not fair and just, like their treatment of women, widows, orphans, poor people etc. Instead of showing sympathy and generosity towards the widows and orphans they usually annexed and spent their assets, money and property.

Before migrating to Medina, while the prophet was still in Mecca, God ordained him to declare:

Al-Quran (O Muhammad) you invite them to the truth and be steadfast in your faith as you Surah Shoora-42 are commanded, and do not follow their vain desires. Say (to them): “I believe Verse: 15 in whatsoever God sent down of the book and I am commanded to do justice ( ) between you. God is our Lord as well as your Lord, to us our deeds, to you your deeds. Let there be no contention between you and us. God will gather us all together, and to Him is the ultimate return.

After the migration and in the initial years of the Islamic State, many verses of Surah Al- Baqarah and Surah Al-Nisa were revealed about the importance of raising families in the right way and leading life by following the principles mentioned above. It was stressed upon believers that the rights of everyone must be respected, specially the rights of orphans and needy. For example:

Al-Quran Give to orphans their property and do not substitute your worthless things for Surah Nisa-4 their good ones, and do not devour their property (by intermixing it) with your Verses: 2 own; because verily this is a great crime.

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Verses: 3 (For marrying orphan girls held under one‟s guardianship), if you fear that you cannot deal justly with the orphans, then marry women who seem good to you, two or three or four. If you fear that you cannot treat them with equity then marry only one, or marry that your right hand possesses. It is more proper that you do not transgress.

This command was revealed because Arabs married rich orphan girls and seizing their wealth mistreated them and made life miserable for them. Along with it also came the command of restricting the wives to four only if one is able to deal with them with equal justice.

Giving special considerations to relatives, orphans and needy at the time of settling inheritance, and dealing with compassion and kindness, was advised:

Al-Quran When kinfolk and orphans and the needy are present at the time of division (of Surah Nisa-4 inheritance), provide also for them from it, and speak kindly to them. Verse: 8

For inheritance, priority was advised for blood-relations:

Al-Quran  For men there is a share in what their parents and kindred leave behind, and Surah Nisa-4 for women a share in what their parents and kindred leave behind, be it little Verses: 7 to 12 or be it much, a decreed share.

God commands you concerning your children:

 For the male a share equal to that of two females.

 If they be all female, two or more than two, then for them is two third of what is left (after payment of living parents share and debts). If there be only one, for her is one half.  For each of the deceased‟s parents is a sixth part of what is left if he has a child. But if he has no child and his parents are his heirs, then the mother shall inherit one third. If he had left brothers, the mother shall inherit one- sixth after payment of the legacies bequeathed or the debts of your fathers and your sons you do not know who are more useful to you. These are the decrees of God. Verily God is knowing, wise.  For you is a half of what your wives leave if they have no children. But if they have a child, then you shall have a fourth of what they leave, after payment of the legacies bequeathed by her or the debts.  For them (your wives) is a fourth of what you leave if you have no child. If you have a child, for them is one-eighth of what you leave after the payment of the legacies bequeathed by you or the debts.  If a man or a woman leaves his or her property to be inherited by a distant heir, and he or she has a brother or a sister, they shall each inherit one sixth. But if there be more than this, then they are the sharers in the one third after payment of the legacies bequeathed or the debts, without prejudice to others. This is an ordinance from God. God is knowing, forbearing.

Additionally, revelations descended for guidance of believers to follow the said principles in their general dealings:

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Al-Quran Worship God and do not join any partners with Him. Do good to the parents and Surah Nisa-4 the kinsfolk and the orphans and the needy and the neighbors who are near, and Verses: 36 the neighbors who are strangers, and the companions by your side, and the way-

farer, and which your right hand possesses. Verily God does not love the proud, the boastful.

Verses: 37 (God does not love) those who are niggardly or enjoin niggardliness on others, or hide what God has given them of His bounty. We have prepared for the disbelievers an ignominious torment.

Al-Quran Verily God commands you to render back your trusts to their owners. When you Surah Nisa-4 judge between men, judge with justice ( ). Verily, how excellent is the Verses: 58 warning which God gives you. Verily, God is ever hearer, seer.

The three principles, which lead to disaster:

Al-Quran Verily, God enjoins justice (A‟dl ), doing good (Ihsan ), to others, Surah Nahl-16 and giving to kindred (Aetai’-zil-qurba ). Verse: 90 And forbids lewdness (Fahasha’ ), evil (Munkar ) and rebellion (Baghi ). We exhort you so that you may take heed.

The three principles of first part of this verse have already been discussed on previous pages which form the basis of welfare, prosperity and peaceful existence of mankind. Now we will discuss the three principles of second part of this verse which are like cancer in the body. First they destroy the home, then the family, then the civil society and ultimately the nation and mankind: In Arabic the term “Fahasha” is that sin which is committed in a clandestine and concealed manner. Such deeds are shameful and obscene. There is a long list of such deeds such as Rape, Nudity, homo-sexuality, marriage with those persons with whom it is forbidden, taking intoxicants etc, etc. “Munkar” are those sins, which a person commits openly and boldly in defiance of social norms and in defiance of religion of God. Alcohol, gambling, dishonesty, treachery, embezzlement, injustice, cruelty, usurping rights of others, exceeding personal rights, superiority complex, pride and arrogance etc, etc.

Arabs suffered from most of these vices and therefore making them give up these evils became a priority task of the prophet. Revelations therefore, constantly descended on this issue in Mecca before immigration and also in Medina, even upto 9th Hijri.

Al-Quran O you who believe, enter into submission one and all and do not follow the Surah Baqarah-2 footsteps of devil (Shaytan ). Verily he is your open enemy. Verse: 208

Al-Quran Verily those who love to spread (Fahasha’ ) scandal, about those who Surah Al-Noor-24 believe, shall have a grievous chastisement in this world and the hereafter. God Verses: 19 knows. You do not know.

Verses: 21 O you who believe, do not follow in the footsteps of devil (Shaytan ), for 321

those who follow in his footsteps he enjoins on them filth and evil (Fahasha’). Had it not been for the grace of God and His mercy on you, not one of you would ever have been clean. But God cleans whom He pleases. God is all- hearing, all-knowing.

Many revelations descended on these subjects for guidance as well as admonishment of believers. Surah Baqarah (2), Surah Nisa (4) and Surah Noor (24) contain these verses. The punishments for the evil deeds are also detailed therein. For example, verse 2 to 10 of Surah Noor (24) deal with adultery. Some verses also describe the chastisements which be fall the sinning people, so that others may take heed.

Between 7th and 9th Hijri Surah Hujrat was revealed, at a time when Islam had spread over nearly the whole of Arabian Peninsula. The ever increasing number of believers made it necessary that character-building and promotion of virtues must be pursued vigorously. Revelations descended and the prophet guided and tutored the people constantly to uplift the moral fiber of Ummah. Quran says:

Al-Quran O you who believe, let not a group of people laugh at another (to scorn), who Surah Hujrat-49 may be better than they are. Nor let some women laugh at other women who Verses: 11 may be better than they are. Nor slander one another. Nor give one another

nicknames. After believing, it is bad to give a bad name to another. Those who do not repent are certainly unjust. Verses: 12 O you who believe, avoid too much suspicions, because verily suspicion in some cases is a sin. Do not spy and do not backbite. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Nay, you would abhor it, then fear the wrath of God. Verily God is oft returning and most merciful.

Momins (true Muslims) should not be led by doubts and suspicions; they should always have a balanced thinking and should concentrate on facts before forming an opinion. They should stay away from sins like two much suspicion, and backbiting which is like eating the dead meat of one‟s fellow-being.

Tafseer-e-Namuma11 If a civil society follows the three principles dictated by Quran for achieving Pages: 298-299 success, namely: 1. Justice ( ).

2. Doing good ( ). 3. Giving to kindred ( ). And avoids the three principles which bring disaster, namely: 1. Lewdness ( ).

2. Evil ( ). 3. Rebellion ( ).

Then God guarantees that society to succeed in both the worlds.

Tafseer-e-Namoona-3 It is narrated by the close companion of the prophet, Abdullah Ibne MasoodR, Page: 267 that the above mentioned verse of Quran is the most comprehensive one about virtues and vices. 322

Imam Baqar always led the Friday prayers by reciting this verse in his sermon, after which he prayed: “O Lord! count us amongst those who listen to your verses and benefit from them”.

The institution of Home:

In the eyes of God, “Home” is the place which gives rise to success of nations, as well as to their fall. That is why Quran has many verses on this subject to guide believers as to how a “Home” should be organized and run and what kind of atmosphere should prevail there. The first and foremost question is, who should be the incharge? Quran answers this question:

Al-Quran Men are the support of women as God gives some, more means than others, and Surah Nisa-4 because men spend of their wealth (to provide for women). So women who are Verse: 34 virtuous are obedient to God, and guard the hidden as God has guarded it.

As per this verse it is the duty of a man to provide for the woman and other members of the family. He has to protect the woman, and look after them and in this capacity he is the incharge. So God guides women to adhere to this fact and like virtuous women take charge of the Home and fill it with virtues and pious atmosphere. Modest and Chaste women are supposed to keep the environment of the home simple, respectful and descent and pure. So as to raise a family worthy of the future of humanity. As examples, those families should be kept in mind who raised prophets, apostles, sages, scholars and austere chaste men and women. A woman should guard her home, its secrets, its riches and above all her own chastity. God does not like unchaste women. Quran says:

Al-Quran As for those whose perverseness you fear, (first) admonish them, then keep Surah Nisa-4 away from then in bed, then (as a last resort) beat them (slightly as punishment). Verse: 34 If they obey you, then do not seek a way against them. Verily God is ever high, great.

This verse provides a solution for preventing “Homes” from breaking. It does not give a clean chit to husbands for beating their wives. The prophet never did so in his entire life. On the contrary, he emphasized: “The best of you is he who is kind to his wife”.

As for men, God did not create males and females equal in matters of sex. A male is allowed upto four wives at a time, but a female only one husband at a time. But the male is not allowed lewdness and cheating, for which maximum punishment may be his death.

Prophet MuhammadS had himself faced a situation when his wife AyeshaR was made a victim of false propaganda by hypocrites. This is known in history as incident of “Ifak” which will appear ahead. How prophet handled that situation is a good example for believers to follow.

The atmosphere of mutual respect and warmth which is supposed to be maintained in a “Home” is greatly influenced by the female in the home, the mother or the wife. It starts with the practice of

323 greeting each other, which children learn in the lap of their mothers. God Almighty attached great importance to greeting, and also guides believers how to greet. Quran says:

Al-Quran When you enter houses, salute one another with a greeting from God, blessed Surah Al-Noor-24 and goodly. Thus God makes clear His signs for you that you may understand. Verse: 61

Tafsir-e-Namunah-4 The brief salutation is to say “Assalam-Alyk” and the answer is “Walykum Pages: 56-57 Salaam”. But according to traditions the best way is to utter “Aslaam-Alyka wa Rahmatulah wa Barkat hu” and the answer is “Wa Alyk” which means, whatever you have said the same is for you. There is a saying of the prophet that: “If a person starts conversation without the salutation, then you should not answer him”.

Al-Quran When you are greeted with a greeting, then reply back with a greeting better Surah Al-Nisa-4 Verse: 86 than it, or return the same. Verily God takes account of all things.

The importance of the greetings in the eyes of God can be judged from the fact that the pious (Muttaqeen ) while entering Paradise, will be greeted in a similar manner. Quran says:

Al-Quran They shall be rewarded with the highest stations (in Paradise) because of their Surah Al-Furqan-25 patient perseverance, and therein they shall be greeted with honor and Verse: 75 salutations.

The privacy and sanctity of “Home” was also important in the eyes of Almighty Lord. Therefore, revelations descended for guidance of believers, and prophet MuhammadS guided them and tutored them. Quran says:

Al-Quran O you who believe, do not enter other houses except yours without first asking Surah Al-Noor-24 permission and saluting the inmates. This is better for you. You may haply take Verses: 27 heed.

Verses: 28 If you find that no one is in, then do not enter unless you have received permission. If you are asked to go away, turn back. That is proper for you. God is aware of what you do.

Al-Quran O you who believe, let those whom your right hand possesses and those who Surah Al-Noor-24 have not yet reached the age of puberty, seek your permission (to enter) on three Verses: 58 occasions: Before the morning prayer, when you lay aside your garments in the

noon heat, and after the night payer. These are the three times of privacy for you. There is no harm if you or they visit one another at other times (without permission). God thus explains things to you clearly, because God is all- knowing, all wise.

Verse: 59 When the children among you have reached the age of puberty, they should similarly ask your permission (for entering) as others did before them. God thus clearly explains His commands to you, because God is all knowing and all wise.

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It was necessary to cleans the Arabs from many superstitious which were prevalent among them. For example, they considered it bad omen if a blind, or a lame, or a sick person came into their house asking for food. If they took such a needy person to their relatives, even they would refuse to feed him. Revelations descended to discourage such superstitions. Quran says:

Al-Quran There is no harm if the blind, the lame, the sick or you yourselves eat in your Surah Al-Noor-24 own house or the houses of your fathers, mothers, or your brother‟s, or those of Verses: 61 your sisters, or your father‟s brothers and sisters, or your mother‟s brothers and sisters, or in the houses whose care is entrusted to you, or the houses of your friends. There is no harm in your eating together or separately. But when you enter the houses, salute the inmates with a greeting in the name of God, invoking blessings and good health. That is how God explains things to you clearly so that you may understand.

The ill-mannered ignorant Arabs also needed disciplining their manners. Revelations descended for their guidance. Quran says:

Al-Quran They alone are true believers who believed in God and His apostle, and when Surah Al-Noor-24 they are with him on a matter of common concern, do not depart without Verses: 61 obtaining his leave. Surely those who ask leave of you (O Muhammad) are the

ones who believe in God and His apostle. Therefore, when they ask leave of you for personal business, give leave to those you please, and seek God‟s forgiveness for them. Surely God is forgiving and kind.

Do not consider your being summoned by the apostle to be like your Verse: 62 summoning one another. God knows those of you who go away surreptitiously. So let those who act in contravention of His command take heed lest a trial should befall them or a grievous punishment come upon them.

Reforms of Financial Matters:

When Muslims migrated to Medina, they were empty-handed, all that belonged to them was left behind in Mecca. The Ansar of Medina greeted them with open-arms, and shared whatever they had with them. Yet they too were of limited means, and could not bear this financial burden for a long period. Such a situation could result in an economic crises, but nothing of this kind happened in Medina. The reason was observance of Islamic principles of Ihsaan ( ) by the prophet, which had three important aspects.

1. Prosperity of all Muslims through kind-hearted and generous sharing. 2. Not letting wealth confined in the hands of a few, but letting it circulate. 3. Banning interest.

Prophet‟s immediate problem after migration was of rehabilitating the Muhajirin. This he solved by making each Muhajir a brother of each Ansar. But this was only a temporary measure. The various steps he took as a permanent solution of the monitory woes, in compliance with the Divine revelations, are discussed below:

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Charity:

Giving charity for the welfare of orphans, widows, poor and needy was made a holy responsibility of all, as an act, which pleased God most and was optional, not compulsory. Quran says:

Al-Quran O believers, give in charity what is good of the things you have earned, and of Surah Baqarah-2 what you produce from earth; and do not choose to give what is bad as alms, Verses: 267-268 that is, things you would not like to accept yourself except with some disdain.

Remember that God is self-sufficient, praiseworthy. __Devil (Shaytan) threatens you with poverty and orders you (to commit) shameful acts. But God promises His pardon and grace, because God is bounteous and all knowing.

Verses: 270 Whatsoever you give away in alms and vows as offering, is all known to God, but the wicked will have none to help them.

Verses: 271 If you give alms openly, it is well; but if you do it secretly and give to the poor, that is better. It will remove some of your sins. God is aware of what you do.

Verses: 272 What you spend in charity, you will get back in full.

Verses: 273 Give to the needy who are engaged in the service of God who are not able to move about in the land and whom the ignorant consider to be affluent as they refrain from asking. You can know them from their faces for they do not ask of men importunately. God is surely cognizant of good things that you spend.

Verses: 274 Those who spend of their wealth in the way of God day and night, in secret and in open, have their reward with their Lord, and have nothing to fear and regret.

Al-Quran Charities are meant for: the indigent and needy, those who collect and distribute Surah Tauba-9 them, those whom you wish to win over, those who are burdened with debt, for Verse: 60 redeeming slaves, for the way-farers, and in the cause of God. So does God

ordain. God is all-knowing, all-wise.

Above verses show the importance which Almighty Lord attaches to charities. Prophet MuhammadS preached it with the same vigor and also practiced it in his own life. Even before migration to Medina, the life of the prophet was exemplary in reaching out to the needy and poor and assisting them. The prophet was not rich himself, but Almighty Lord caused conditions for his monitory support.

Tafseer-e-Kabyr-8 His marriage to the wealthy lady KhadijaR brought affluence in his life (though Page: 804 he never spent from her wealth on his personal needs and wishes). When a Imam Razi famine broke out in Mecca and hunger struck the population, specially the R Muslims, prophet was worried and spoke to his wife Khadija : Malkyat-ul-Arab “These are times of famine, and I feel shy in using your wealth. But if I do not Page: 249 help the hungry, I feel fear of Allah”. KhadijaR the same moment called the respected persons of the Quraiysh. Abu BakrR was also one of them, he relates that: “In our presence she heaped Dinars before us. The mound grew higher, until I was unable to see those sitting opposite to me, as the mound of cash hid them”.

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Then KhadijaR said: “Stand witness to it that all my wealth belongs to the messenger of Allah, he has full authority to keep it or to spend it”.

Like the prophet, she too disliked holding wealth while people were dying of hunger. All this wealth, which was presented as a gift to the prophet by KhadijaR, has been forgotten by history except the remark of Abu BakrR. History went silent to questions like: “Where and how did the prophet spend this wealth”?

We will get the answer if we just ponder as to how the Muslim converts of Mecca faced the isolation and enmity from the Quraiysh. Their house-holds, businesses, properties, all faced the wrath of powerful Quraiysh. Then how did these Muslims survive? The worst effected migrated to Abyssinia and their expenses were borne by the prophet except a few who were men of means at that time. But later when Banu Hashim were boycotted by Qurayish of Mecca and the whole clan had to take refuge in the valley of Shaiyb Abi Talib, not for a day or two but for full three years, then it brought a complete financial disaster for them. Their survival then depended solely on the wealth gifted to prophet by his wife KhadijaR.

When prophet migrated to Medina, he too faced poverty along with his followers. The first few years in Medina were full of sufferings and misery, poverty and penury. Often there was nothing to eat at the homes of his wives, yet no begger left empty-handed from their doors.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Zainab Binte Khuzema lived only for a few months as prophet‟s wife. During Pages: 261-263 this short period, she helped so many poor and needy persons that she was given the title of “Mother of the Needy”. Zainab Binte Hajsh was a contended and generous lady. She earned herself and then gave her earnings in charity. Amongst these houses one was that of FatimaA the daughter of the prophet. From her door too no one left without being helped. On one occasion, charity was given in a manner so pleasing to God that revelations descended appreciating her and her family‟s devotion i.e, AliA, FatimaA, HasanA and HussainA. The occasion was fulfillment of a vow of keeping three fasts when HasanA and HussainA recovered from an illness. Each fasting day they gave whatever food they had in the house to an orphan, a destitute and a (freed) captive. On the third day, Almighty Lord revealed these verses:

Al-Quran They fulfill their vows and fear the day whose evil shall spread far and wide. Surah Dahr-76 (Inspite of their own needs) they give food for love of God to the poor, the Verses:7 to 12 orphan and the captive. (Saying) we feed you only for the sake of God, and do not seek any recompense from you, not even thanks. Verily we fear from our Lord a stern day of stress. So God will guard them from the evil of that day, and cause them to find, cheerfulness and happiness. God shall reward them for that which they endured with patience and silk.

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When the companions of the prophet came to know this kind of charity of his family, they too followed suite and tried to outdo each other. Some went to bed hungry but provided for the needy, many wore old garments but gave new dresses to the orphans.

Spirit of Islam After the battle of Badar in 2nd Hijri, the prophet distributed the 70 captives of Syed Ameer Ali war among the Muslims of Medina. These captives were treated so well that Page: 150 they turned into “all praise” for their captors. One of the captives acknowledged Ref: Ibne Hisham Caussin De Pereval this fact with such words of gratitude: Muir “May God bless the people of Medina, who were so hospitable that at times they provided us conveyance (horses or camels) while they walked on foot themselves. Although there was a shortage of wheat, yet they provided it for us and themselves survived on dates”.

Such an attitude of people was a direct result of prophet‟s teachings. For example, he preached:

Spirit of Islam Each virtuous and good deed is charity. Greeting your brethren with a smiling Syed Ameer Ali face is charity. Encouraging others towards the good deeds is charity. Guiding Page: 142 travelers towards their destination is charity. Good behavior towards prisoners is Narrated by: Abu Saeed Khidri charity. Helping the blind, picking up stones from the paths and roads and supplying water to the soldiers in battle is charity. In short all acts for humanity and its welfare are charity.

The tireless efforts of prophet MuhammadS in creating an environment of Ihsaan in Medina, where charity played an important role, turned the dismal atmosphere into a brotherhood filled with hope and optimism.

Zakat:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 After the revelation of Surah Tauba in 9th Hijri, payment of Zakat was made Page: 78 compulsory for believers. Then prophet appointed collectors of Zakat from the Muslim tribes in the month of Muharram of 9th Hijri. Thus an organized system of Zakat collection was put in force. A central financial institution by the name of “Baitul-maal” (House of Finances) was then established by the prophet. It was for the first time in Arab society, that those who possessed wealth above a stated level (Nisaab) had to pay Zakat. It was made compulsory for them to pay it from their agricultural produce, their live stocks, their trading goods, their minerals, their collection of silver and gold. The rates of Zakat were different depending upon Nisaab and varying from 2.5% to 10%. All these finances were collected in an organized and systematic manner, which were deposited with the prophet‟s established Bait-ul-Maal and could be spent only upon prophet‟s authority.

Zakat and Charity were two different things. Zakat was compulsory and Charity was optional. After the institution of Zakat was setup by prophet, funds started flowing into the Baitul-maal from all over Arabia. Maulana Modudi uses the word “River of finances for it”. He says:

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“The Messenger of Allah, did not take a drop for his and his family, from this flowing river of finances”.

Whatever the prophet did was in accordance with Divine Will, but question arises that prophet and his family too had no source of income, nor were they so rich as to sustain on their own. The Almighty Lord did not permit them to take money from Charity and Zakat, but allowed them to take their share from Khums. This will be discussed later.

Khums:

Al-Quran (O believers) know that, Khums (one fifth portion) of whatever you Al-Anfal-8 acquire (Ghanimtum ), is for God and His messenger, and for His Verse: 41 (messenger‟s) near relatives, the orphans, the needy, and the way-farer. (Accept this) if you believe in God and in that which we sent down to Our servant (Muhammad) on the day of distinction, the day when the two hosts met (the day of battle of Badar). Verily God has power over all things.

This verse made it compulsory for the believers to pay Khums (one fifth) of whatever they acquire (Ghanimat). The Khums money thus collected is specifically meant for God and His prophet and prophet‟s relatives, orphans, needy and way-farer. But question arises, on what kind of income Khums becomes payable, income from all sources or only on income from war spoils? To answer this question, it will be necessary to see the meaning in which Quran has used the word Ghanimat elsewhere. This word has been used by Quran at two places, in Surah Layl 92, verse 11, and Surah Nisa 4 verse 94.

At both places it means “Wealth” and nowhere “War spoils”. Therefore it looks appropriate that Khums becomes payable on income from all sources which naturally includes income from war spoils.

In the later part of the above verse, attention of believers is drawn to the battle of Badar where dispute arose among believers about ownership of spoils of Badar. At that time Almighty Lord revealed this verse:

Al-Quran They ask you of Anfal (benefits accruing as) war spoils. Tell them: “The Al-Anfal-8 benefits belong to God and His messenger”. So fulfill your duty to God and Verse: 1 keep peace among yourselves. Obey God and the prophet if you really believe.

The word used in the above verse is Anfal, which clearly means, “spoils of war”. But the word used in verse 8:41 is “Ghanimat” which means income from all sources which naturally includes spoils of war.

After the revelation of above verse (8:1), the believers did not have any right to ask for spoils of Badar. But the prophet, showing a jesture of Ihsaan and kindness, distributed 80% of spoils of Badar among the believers, and kept for himself and his family the remaining 20% (equivalent to Khums). 329

Thus through a portion of Khums, the Almighty Lord provides for the family of prophet for whom charity and Zakat are forbidden. The other portion of Khums (in the name of God) provides for vital state functions like education.

Question still arises, what could be the wisdom of Almighty Lord in giving this preferential treatment to prophet‟s family? Is it for giving them some kind of superior treatment or it is for some other purpose?

The answer is not difficult to find if we look into the history of Islamic rulers. The rulers always had Baitul-maal work as their personal treasury in pursuit of their political priorities. God Almighty therefore wished to make the family of prophet financially independent of Baitul-maal. This was important because the family of prophet was destined to play a vital role of instituting, supporting and guiding a society which should be vibrant with knowledge, wisdom and social and religious ethics as directed by Quran. This had been the life-long goal of all the Imams of Ahlal-bait in the family of prophet MuhammadS. Amongst them, the most prominent role was that of Imam HussainA ibne Ali ibne Abi TalibA.

But the Islamic rulers looked at the role of Imams of Ahlal-bait with an eye of suspicion and as an act of political rivalry.

The financial independence of prophet‟s family was therefore the wish of Almighty Lord, which was ordained by Quran under the captions of Khums and Fay. Khums was one-fifth of the income of every believer, from all sources including the income from spoils of war where actual fighting took place.

But where actual fighting did not take place and wealth/property came into Muslim hands without fighting, it was called Fay by Quran. A portion of Fay was also earmarked by Almighty Lord for financial support of prophet‟s family. Thus Khums and Fay, both formed the base of financial support of prophet‟s family.

Question remains to be answered if it was also an intention to attach a label of superiority to prophet‟s family? God‟s ways are very clear on this issue. In God‟s eye, the superiority of any individual depends on that individual‟s Taqwa, piety and virtuous deeds. It is yet another story that prophet‟s family did not lack such personalities, and it goes without saying that they proved their metal on this front, in every age. Throughout history, a great majority of those eminent and pious Muslim people, who worked for the betterment of humanity, were the descendants of prophet‟s family.

Fay:

After the exile of Banu Nadyr (Jewish tribe of Medina) in Rabi-ul-Awwal 4th Hijri, all their assets came into Muslim hands without fighting. Al-mighty Lord revealed the following verses on that occasion:

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Al-Quran You did not charge with horse or camel for whatever booty (Afa ) God gave Surah Hashr-59 to His apostle from them (Banu Nadyr). In any case, God gives authority to His Verse: 6 apostle over whomsoever He pleases. God has power over everything.

Verse: 7 Whatever booty (Afa ) God gives to His apostle from the people of the cities, is for God and His apostle, the near relatives, the orphans, the needy and wayfarers, so that it does not concentrate in the hands of those who are rich among you.(You should) accept what apostle gives you and refrain from what

he forbids. Take heed for yourself and fear God. Surely God is severe of retribution.

Verse: 8 The spoils are also for the poor emigrants who were deprived of their homes and possessions and are seeking the bounties and protection of God and are helping God and His apostle. They are the ones who are true of word and deed.

Verse: 9 Those (who believed) before them (Ansar) who had homes (in Medina) and are (steadfast) in faith, love those who have taken refuge with them (Muhajirin) and do not find in their breasts anything against what has been given them (Muhajirin) and give them preference over themselves, even though poverty

was their own lot. Whosoever preserves himself from his own avarice, those are successful.

Verse: 10 Those who come after them (who will accept Islam till the end of the world). Say: “O Lord, forgive us and our brothers who have preceded us in faith and do not put a grudge in our hearts against those who believe. O Lord, verily you are kind and merciful”.

These verses of Surah Al-Hashr are speaking about the abandoned assets and properties of Banu Nadyr, and announcing that they belong to God and the prophet only. The believers therefore cannot ask for a share as a matter of right, but it is the privilege of the prophet how he distributes and the believers must accept whole heartedly what they receive. For distribution, God gives first priority to prophet‟s relatives, orphans, needy and wayfarers, and then to Muhajirin and Ansar.

The above verse uses word Afa for the booty which means “returned to” i.e, the wealth which was originally God‟s, but was usurped by Jews, has been returned to its lawful owners.

The word Fay has been derived from Afa.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 In Surah Hashr the command is given (verse 6-10) once for all that Fay is the Page: 397 right of Allah, His prophet, relatives of the prophet, orphans, needy, destitute travelers, immigrants (of Mecca), Ansars, Andit reaches even all those future Muslim descendents who will have this right till doomsday.

How did the Prophet handle Fay:

The verse of Surah Hashr revealed the rules, which Almighty Lord had ordained for Fay. The rule of primary importance was that: “Fay is the right of God and His prophet and the prophet‟s near relatives, orphans, needy and the wayfarer”. The verse also explained the reason: “So that the wealth

331 accrued from Fay does not concentrate in the hands of those who are rich”. (59:7). Next priority after the above, were the Muhajirin and Ansaar who were poor.

The share of God was delegated to the prophet who had full authority to spend it as he deemed fit.

Prophet spent this Fay to cover his own expenses and those of his relatives. Expenses for orphans, needy, and distressed travelers were also met from the same funds. The remaining funds were distributed by the prophet in the following manner.

His first priority were those Muhajirin who were in abject poverty in Medina. Secondly, those Ansar of Medina who were poor, and thirdly, those tribesmen outside Medina who were facing a hard life of poverty.

How did the prophet spend this Fay on his relatives, deservers some explanation: The land and orchards abandoned by Banu Nadyr of Medina were used by prophet to provide financial support to his wives. His daughter FatimaA did not get any share out of the Fay of Banu Nadyr. But a little later when the orchards of Fidak (in the region of Khyber) came under Fay, prophet gave them to FatimaA. This will be discussed later.

The charge of managing of Fay share of prophet‟s wives was entrusted to prophet‟s close companion BilalR, who after selling the produce in the market and deducting the expenses, distributed the balance amount equally among prophet‟s wives.

When Khyber was conquered a little later, prophet‟s wives were given additional share from its lands. During the times of Umer FarooqR‟s caliphate, the surviving wives of the prophet, AeyshaR and others, took possession of the land instead of taking proceeds from its production

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 After the conquest of Khyber only a town named Fidk was left with the Jews, Page: 362 who were peace-loving people. They requested the prophet for peace on the condition that they will share 50% of the production with the prophet if they

were allowed to plough the land, as they were good farmers. The prophet accepted the condition, thus the whole area of Khyber became the property of the Muslims.

Tafseer-e- Thus the Fidk in the category of Fay belonged to prophet, as no fighting had Namoona-23 taken place there. Abu Saeed KhidriR says: Page: 359 “The Messenger of Allah gave his personal property of Fidk to his daughter FatimaA. Ibne AbbasR narrated that prophet did so according to the 38th verse of Surah Rome:

Al-Quran So, give their share to the relatives, the needy and the wayfarers. Surah Rome-30 This is the best for those who seek the way that leads to God, and they will be Verse: 38 successful.

R Ibn-al-Hadid The prophet summoned Fatima and said: Sharah “O Fatima! Fidk is your property”. Nahaj-ul-Balagha16 This property was “Fay” and was the share of Allah and His Messenger, which Page: 209 the messenger gave to FatimaA. The other income, prophet used to spend for Dur-al-Mansoor-3 332

Page: 177 weapons and horses and animals, which were distributed among the needy Kanaz-ul-Amaal-2 soldiers. Page: 158 After the death of the prophet, all the above assets were transferred to Baitul-

Maal.

Tafheem-ul-Quran Atta Bin Said says that the Ummyad Caliph Umer Bin Abdul Aziz (99-101 Pages: 391-392 Hijri) during his reign, used to send the share of prophet and his relatives to Banu Hashim. As to the rest three shares, orphans, poor and travelers, they were also distributed upto the times of the four Caliph who were called “Khulfaey- Rashdyn” in Islamic history (Abu BakrR, Umer FarooqR, UsmanR and AliA). However after them, the rules were changed during the reign of Banu Ummya and Banu Abbas. Though Bait-ul-Maal still existed but Zakaat, Fay, spoils of war, all were mixed up in such a manner that to find out what was spent under which heading became impossible. Financial matters were handled in such a manner that the poor and needy suffered the most, and nothing reached them.

Ban on Interest:

It is the founding principle of Islamic economy that it should be interest free, because it results in the accumulation of riches in the hands of a few which is not permitted in Islam.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 When and how did the “Interest” creep into Arabia, cannot be said with Page: 375 certainty, but history tells us that from 1st century AD to 7th century AD right from Syria to Palestine and Arabia where the Jewish tribes lived, their fore-most business was interest.

They had entangled the Arabs of their neighboring areas into the traps of interest, especially the tribal chiefs and rich Arab families. They lent them money on interest, left it to be compounded so that after some time the repayment became difficult and then impossible.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 When the prophet came to Medina he saw this business of the Jews flourishing Pages: 93-94 in various forms. First the prophet declared buying of silver and gold on credit as interest. Then he forbade interest which when compounded became an unpayable load forever, a real curse.

God commanded: Al-Quran O you who believe, do not practice usury, charging doubled and redoubled Surah Al-e-Imran-3 interest. Safeguard yourselves with full awareness of God‟s laws, that haply you Verse: 130 may be successful.

The next step prophet took was the forbidding of exchange of goods of same kind but with differences of qualities.

In 7th Hijri after the conquest of Khyber when some the Muslims started business with Jews, then the prophet declared: “Changing the rate of exchange of Ashrafi (Gold Coin) in business is also interest”.

In 8th Hijri the complete and final law and rules about interest were revealed:

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Al-Quran Those who swallow down usury would not be able to rise (on Resurrection day) Surah Baqarah-2 but like a man possessed of the devil and demented. This is because they say: Verses: 274 to 276 “Trading is like usury”. But God has decreed trading lawful and has forbidden usury. Those who desist (from dealing in interest) after receiving the warning from their Lord, they will keep (what they have taken of interest) already, and the matter will rest with God. But those who return to (indulging in interest) again, they are the inmates of fire. God takes away (gains) from usury, but adds (profit) to charity, and God does not love any ungrateful wrong-doer.

After the revelation of these verses, the prophet addressed a large gathering at the Mosque and announced: “From today all business based on interest is forbidden. Send this message to all tribes in the surroundings of Medina, that if they would not stop the business of interest, then we will be at war with them”.

Although, prior to prophet‟s last sermon on 10th Zil-Hajj, all interest based businesses were prohibited; still the prophet deemed it right to declare and re-emphasise: “To-day all interests of the ignorance era are declared null and void. First of all I cancel the interest of my family, that of Abbas Ibne Abdul Muttalib”.

Abdullah Ibne AbbasA narrates that the decree of interest was the last part of the Divine Chain of Commands.

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Chapter -9 From Ghazwah-e-Ahzab to Peace Pact of Hudybia

Ghazwah-e-Ahzab: (Shawwal 5th Hijri i.e, February 627 AD):

While the Messenger of Allah was conveying His message and was imparting knowledge of the Quran and Wisdom, his enemies were busy conspiring against him and Islam.

The victory of Uhad had boosted their morale and some tribes had even started attacking Muslims when they found them away from Medina, specially their trade caravans. Domat-ul-Jandl was an important junction from where routes branched out towards Iraq, Syria and Egypt. The tribes living at Domat-ul-Jandal were the main culprits responsible for looting Muslim caravans. Therefore prophet MuhammadS planned an expedition against them with a force of one thousand soldiers. But when the prophet reached that spot, they had already fled, abonding their settlements. This incident helped recover Muslim reputation in northern Arabia. One or two other smaller and similar incidences occurred proving the determination of Muslims. They realized then, that one or two tribes were not capable of damaging Muslims inspite of being fierce fighters. But as all of them regarded Muslims as their common enemy, so they united in an alliance. Due to this alliance, the battle fought with them is known as Battle of Ahzab (united front).

Historians and narrators have said that the Jews of Banu Nadyr tribe, who were banished by the prophet and who had settled down in Khyber, planned revenge against Islam. Their tribal chiefs Salam Bin Aby-ul-Haqyq, Hayee Bin Akhtb and Kanana Bin Raby visited Mecca, and met the Quraiysh. They said: “We can eliminate Muslims, if you assist us”.

“Quraiysh were already dying to do this, hence they readily agreed to conspire with the Jews and prepare a delegation for negotiating with other tribes. This delegation then met the chiefs of Banu Ghatfan/Banu Saleem, who allied with them, along with their friendly tribes. All these tribes regarded Islam as a threat to their faith and their security. So they joined hands to wipeout Islam from the face of earth.

The force of unbeliever‟s alliance:

Muqraizy-ul-Matah Historians say that the unbelievers managed to assemble a force of ten Ghazwah-e-Ahzab thousands warriors. The details are as below: Quraiysh of Mecca: 4000 warriors, 300 horses and 1500 camels. Banu Saleem: 700 warriors who came from Mur-ul-Zuhran region. Banu Farazah: 1000 soldiers. 335

Ashjah Tribe: 400 soldiers. Banu Murrah: 400 soldiers. The rest belonged to some minor tribes while Jews of Khyber also joined them. The command of this allied army was entrusted to the Quraiysh chief Abu Suffyan. They marched upon Medina without facing any hindrance and camped a few miles away from the city near the Uhud hills. They selected this spot because Medina was most vulnerable from here.

Prophet‟s defensive strategy:

The prophet and his followers were fully aware of the enemy‟s intentions and movements from the early stage of their planning. The defence position of Medina was such that the enemy could have easy access to the city from its south, but could not launch attack because of thick Orchards of date trees, which acted like a wall of defence. In the east and western side were high rocks which could effectively block the enemies advance. Thus Medina could only be attacked from the north, by the side of the Uhud hills.

The Muslims consisted only of 3000 soldiers, and therefore it was not an easy task to battle the enemy face to face. The prophet consulted with his companions, but none of the proposals impressed him.

Salman Farsee (a Persian and a close companion of prophet) had seen the Persian army avert the advances of the invaders by digging trenches. His knowledge and experience helped. He told the prophet that the Persians used to dig a moat around their cities to defend them. His advice therefore was, that instead of moving out of the city to face the enemy, the Muslim army should dig a trench by the side of the Uhud hills to block the enemy advance.

The prophet liked and approved the suggestion. In the front of the road going into Medina, there was the Mount Saala. Keeping it at the back the Muslim army was camped there, and in the front a moat was dug from west to east. The start and end of the moat were fixed by the prophet himself. All 3000 soldiers were divided into groups of ten, and each group was assigned the task of digging ten yards of the moat. In twenty days a 3000 yards long moat was dug, which protected the entire span of the northern approach of Medina. It was deep enough and wide enough to hold the enemy at bay. The width of the moat was such that no rider could jump over it, and the depth was such that if any one tried to jump in, climbing out was impossible.

The second line of defence was a group of archers along the moat, anyone daring to cross had to face the raining arrows. The prophet arranged his army behind the moat in front of the Mount Saala, the women and children were left behind in the city in fortress like homes for safety.

The Jewish tribe of Banu Qaryza who still upheld the Pact of Medina were still living in Medina, and remained impartial till the beginning of the battle. The Jews confined themselves and their families in their fortresses.

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Siege of Medina:

Tafheem-ul-Quran The non-believers and infidels army reached Medina at a time when all Page: 58 preparations had been completed by the prophet. The Arabs were totally unaware of the use of a moat as a defence tactic. They were astonished and

confused when they saw the moat. They were forced to camp in the open ground braving the chilly cold winds of desert winter, and had no alternative left but to lay a siege, for a time long and hard to estimate.

Conditions in the City: Quran describes this onslaught briefly in one sentence:

Al-Quran Surah Ahzab-33 When they came upon you from above and below. Verse: 9

What actually happened that from North came the Jews of Banu Qanqah and Banu Nadyr, who had been banished from Medina by the prophet. From the east came the various sub-tribes of Banu Ghatfaan (Banu Saleem, Faraze, Murrah, Ashjah, Saad and Asad), and from the South came Quraiysh along with their allies. When they reached Medina from all directions, beating the war drums, shouting slogans, the Muslims who had weak faith were terrified.

Quran says about them:

Al-Quran When their eyes were stupefied with horror and hearts jumped to the throats, Surah Ahzab-33 and they made wild suppositions about God. Verse: 10

The Medinites had never seen such a large army. The famous warriors of Arabia Umru Bin Abdwud, Ikrama Bin Abu Jahl, Habyr, Naufil and Zarar were part of this army. Speaking about the reaction of Muslims, Quran divides them into three groups.

 Hypocrites.  Muslims of weak faith.  True Muslims (Momins).

About hypocrites and those of weak faith, Quran says:

Al-Quran The hypocrites and those who were filled with doubt said: “The promise of God Surah Al-Ahzab-33 and his messenger was nothing but deceit”. Verses: 12-19 A group of them said: “O people of Medina, there is no place for you here (in the Battle-field), turn back”. (yet another) group of them asked leave of the prophet, saying: “Our homes lie exposed”__They were actually not exposed, their intention was only to run- away. (They had conspired with the enemy), if the enemy had entered the city and asked them to rise in revolt, they would have done so without any hesitation at all; (inspite of the fact) that earlier they had made a promise to God that they would never turn their backs. (They must know that) a promise made to God is 337

answerable. Tell them (O Muhammad): “Of no gain will be your running away, if you were to run away from death or getting killed (on battle-field), (it will only be a short respite) for you to enjoy pleasures of life. Tell them (O Muhammad): “Who will save you from God if He decides to afflict you, or to show you His mercy”? They will never find a friend or helper other than God. Surely God knows who among you obstruct, and (also) those who say to their brothers: “Come to us”, and go to battle but seldom. They are (most) miserly in helping you. When danger appears, you will find them looking at you with eyes turning like a man‟s in the swoon of death. But when danger is passed, they lash you with sharp tongues, covetous of the best (of booty). Such people as these have not touched the faith. So God nullifies whatever they have done. This is how the innate law of God works inevitably.

When the enemy abandoned their long siege and went away, the people of this group were so confused that they secretly decided to run away and take refuge in the desert, lest the enemy come back and make another attack. Quran says:

Al-Quran They think the allied (enemy) tribes have not withdrawn, and if the enemy came Surah Al-Ahzab-33 back, they (the hypocrites and their supporters) would rather be (hiding) with Verse: 20 the Arabs of the desert, and seeking (from there) news about you. Had they been among you, they would have fought but just a little.

The true Muslims (Mominin) were those who had full faith in God and full faith in His messenger. They held the prophet as role-model and the best example to follow. They had seen the prophet work alongside them, digging the moat, lifting huge stones and toiling harder than others without any remorse and fear. He was giving them tidings of victory and advising them to praise their Lord. The Almighty Lord praised them. Quran says:

Al-Quran Verily in the messenger of God (Muhammad) you have an excellent role-model Surah Al-Ahzab-33 (for those) who fear God and the Day of Resurrection, and remember God Verse: 21 frequently. When the faithful saw (the armies of) the allied tribes, they said: “This is what God and His prophet had promised us. God and His prophet had spoken the truth, and this enhanced their faith and submission. They are men among the faithful who have been true to the covenant they had made with God. Some of them fulfilled their vows (by dying in His cause) and some still wait and stand firm.

The Deceptions of Infidels and Jews:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-4 The allied army had set siege to Medina, but were unable to cross the moat. Page: 60 They only showered arrows at Muslim soldiers, but could not attack them. This situation led them to think out a plan to provoke the Jews living in Medina to betray Muslims. Those Jews were still holding to their commitment of Medina Pact. 338

Hayee Bin Akhtb the chief of Banu Nadyr offered his services to secretly negotiate a deal. He went to the Jewish tribe of Medina (Banu Qaryza). At first they resisted and refused flatly. Then Hayee tried to convince them with his last argument. He said:

“I have brought the united power of the Arabs. This is the last chance of wiping out the Muslims, don‟t miss this chance. Join us”.

Hearing this Jews decided to join them and to break the pact with Muslims. the news however reached the prophet who sent Ansar chief to investigate. When he met Banu Qaryza, they said blatantly: “There is no pact between Muhammad and us”.

As this news spread Muslims were distressed and worried. Taking advantage of their state of mind, the hypocrites started spreading rumors, and targeting the group of Muslims who had weaker faith, they prompted them to: “Come to terms with the invaders and hand over Muhammad to them”.

Prophet‟s defensive Tactics:

For Muslims it was a time of great ordeal and trial. The prophet tried to have an agreement with Banu Ghaftan by offering them 1/3 of the fruit production of Medina; in return he wanted them to leave the battle-field. This proposal was given by him to save the Ansar and their city. When the Ansar’s chiefs Sa‟d Bin Abada and Sa‟d Bin Muaz learnt about it they met the prophet and requested: “O prophet! Terminate this agreement. Swords will decide between us and the non-believers”.

After this discussion the agreement was torn which had yet to be signed by both the parties.

At this juncture a person named Naeem Bin Masood (who was from Banu Ghatfan and who had embraced Islam secretly) came to the prophet and offered his services. The prophet said: “Try to sow division amongst the enemy ranks. It is permitted to deceive the enemy in time of war”.

Obeying the order, he first met people of Banu Qaryza in Medina, assured them of his friendship and as a sympathizer advised them: “The siege is prolonging, I think the Quraiysh and Bani Ghatfan will leave due to the long wait, but you have to live with the Muslims (in Medina) what will happen after the attacking tribes are gone. So it is better to keep some Quraiysh as security with you before you participate in the battle”. From there Naeem visited Quraiysh and Bani Ghaftan chieftains, and made them suspicious of Bani Quryza by saying: “They do not have confidence in you. They are going to demand as security some hostages from you. It is possible that they may make a deal with the prophet by handing over these hostages to him”.

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The Quraiysh now became suspicious and sent a message to Banu Qaryza: “This prolonged siege is disturbing. A decisive fight should therefore take place. You must attack Muslims from within the city and we will attack from outside simultaneously”.

In reply Banu Qaryza said: “Until you will not give us some of your people as security, we will not fight and face danger”.

This reply confirmed the suspicious planted by Naeem. They refused to give the security. Thus the tactics adopted by the prophet proved successful, and discord was sown amongst the united front of the enemies.

Start of the Battle:

Twenty-five days of siege had passed and each passing day had increased the problems of the Quraiysh army. It was winter and there was no adequate arrangement of protecting the soldiers and animals from the chilly winds. Gradually the provisions and water storage too was dwindling, and it was becoming difficult to provide fodder for the animals.

The commanders of the allied forces therefore decided to attack without losing more time. It was planned by Abu Suffyan that the famous Quraish generals, Khalid Bin Walyd, Umru Bin Ala‟as, Zarar and Habya, one by one should attack with full force of their tribes. The attacks took place as planned, but they could only shower arrows and hurl stones at the Muslim army from their side of moat. When this did not work, a united attack was planned. this too did not succeed as the Muslims did not give them a chance to cross the moat. However five famed warriors from among them, Akrama Bin Abu Jahl, Naufal, Habya, Zarar and Umru Bin Abdwud managed to jump over the moat at a point where it was a bit narrower.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Pages: 237-238 Amongst the five the most famous and bravest was Umru Bin Abdwud. He had

Life of Muhammad no peer in the entire Arabia, and was considered equal to a thousand soldiers. He Page: 130 had fought in Ghazwah-e-Badr and had escaped in an injured state. He had sworn then that he would not put oil in his hair until he had taken revenge. Tafseere-Namuna-17 Pages: 220-221 All these five horsemen after crossing the moat, suddenly appeared before the

Sharah Muslim soldiers, Umru came forward and according to the Arab custom Nahaj-ul-Balagha-4 challenged the Muslims, he shouted: Page: 244 “Is there anyone who is prepared to fight with me”? Summary

Silence prevailed as none amongst the Muslims found courage to accept the challenge. Only one man had the courage and he was AliA, the cousin and son in law of the Prophet. Fearlessly he came forward and sought permission: “O prophet! Permit me to fight. The prophet asked him to sit down.

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Receiving no reply Umru shouted again. AliA stood up again but prophet‟s reply was the same. This silence encouraged Umru. He mocked and taunted. Muslims heard him reciting lines of humiliation and were speechless: “O Muslims! I challenged you so long that my throat is hoarse. I am standing at a point where many braves are reluctant to stand but only those stand whose nobility and bravery are their hallmarks”. At this juncture the prophet ordered: “Is there anyone who can silence this evil tongue and remove this rogue from the heads of Muslims”.

Still no one answered, except AliA, who was again requesting permission. The prophet pointed at Umru and said: “Ali! He is Umru Bin Abdwud”.

AliA with full confidence replied: “Yes! I know he is Umru Bin Abdwud”. The prophet then said: “Come near me”.

When AliA came near, the prophet placed his turban on his head, gave him his personal armour to wear and handing over his sword (known as Zulfiqar) prayed: “O Allah! Help Ali from his right, from his left, from his front and his back, from up and down”.

Though AliA was the bravest of the brave, yet it was his undying faith in Allah which brought him fearlessly before Umru. Behind him, across the moat stood a large army poised to attack Muslims. If AliA would have failed in defeating Umru, the result would have been disastrous. As soon as he left to face Umru, the prophet uttered these historical words: “It is the “Total Faith” ( ), who is arrayed against “Total Unbelief” ( )”.

Maulana Shibly has written that Umru use to say to his opponent in battle: “If you put forward three requests to me, before I kill you, I will readily accept one of them”. AliR facing Umru first recited aloud his Rijz ( ) (the honorable status of his family and his own), then he demanded: “Accept one of my three demands.

1. Accept Islam. 2. Leave the Battle-field. 3. Climb down from your horse to fight”.

Umru who was proud of his status and fame as a great warrior, had never dreamt that someone could talk to him in this manner. He became furious and jumping down from his horse, attacked AliA with his sword. AliA stopped the attack on his shield but piercing through the shield the sword injured his fore-head. Though this injury was not very serious, yet it left behind a scar on his fore- head. Ali is sometimes called Zulqarnain, as he had two wound marks on his fore-head, one from the sword of Umru and other from his assassinator Ibne-Muljm.

Umru had attacked with his full ferocity and power, but AliA turned back with lightening speed and struck Umru with Zulfikar (his sword), which piercing through his shoulder injured his thigh. Umru fell with a thud, grunting loudly, he tried to rise but could not. 341

The battle-field was dusty, nothing could be seen clearly. The hypocrites believed Umru had killed AliA, but were taken a back as they heard “Allah-o-Akbar” (Allah is Great) and saw AliA emerging out of the dust. The other four horsemen were surrounded by Muslims. Zarar and Habyr tried to attack AliA, but when AliA attacked them, they fled.

Umer FarooqR chased Zarar, who turned back to attack UmerR with his spear; but stopped without striking and shouted: “O Umer! Don‟t forget this favor”. Then he jumped over the moat.

Naufal ran but fell in the moat. Muslim soldiers started pelting stones and shooting arrows at him, he shouted: “don‟t stone me to death, O Muslims! I want to die a noble death”.

Hearing his appeal AliA jumped in the trench and killed him in one to one combat. The fight continued throughout the day and infidels kept on shooting arrows and pelting stones, but nothing helped them. By nightfall their attack subsided.

Throughout this long period of siege, the Almighty Lord had tested the faith and resolve of Muslims. That period was over, and God‟s blessings were about to descend on Muslims. That night, chilly winds suddenly gained speed and turned into a big storm. The enemy tents were uprooted, their fires extinguished, their provision blown away, and their fighters and chiefs terror-stricken with darkness prevailing everywhere.

Quran says about this historical event:

Al-Quran O you, who believe. Remember the favors of God to you when an army came Surah Al-Ahzab-33 against you, and we sent a wind against them and forces that you did not see. Verses: 9 But God sees all that you do.

The prophet had sent Khazifa for spying the enemy camp. He returned and informed that Abu Suffyan had ordered his army to retreat. Abu Suffyan was terrified by the severity of the storm so much that he rode his camel without completely freeing it from ground, and the camel stood up on three legs. His army fled in total confusion and disarray.Quran speaks about this retreat:

Al-Quran God drove the unbelievers back in their fury, and they gained no advantage. Surah Ahzab-33 God was sufficient (to help) the believers in the battle. God is all powerful all- Verse: 25 mighty.

The next morning as the atmosphere cleared and the storm abated, Muslims saw the battle-field empty of enemies and the prophet announced:

“O Muslims! The Quraiysh will not invade, instead you will invade”.

Consequences of Ghazwah-e-Ahzab:

This battle, which the messenger of Allah led himself, was the last attempt of the combined forces of all the tribes which opposed Islam. It was also the last invasion of Medina and was

342 therefore decisive in the sense that the opponents discovered the real strength and power of Muslims and also heard with half belief the prophecy of the messenger of God: “The Quraiysh will never muster courage to face Muslims”.

At that moment of victory, prophet also paid a great tribute to AliA. He said: “One blow of AliA in the battle of Ahzab is weightier than the prayers of my entire Ummah from now till the doomsday”.

In reality, this stroke of AliA was a manifestation of the Will of Almighty God which put Islam on the road to success, and therefore all prayers are indebted to this victory.

Consequences of this battle were very far reaching: 1. The full might of united forces of enemy met with failure. Their pride, arrogance, and future plans, were all shattered. 2. They were terrified by the Muslim power and the strong faith of the Momins. All this bred a dread in their hearts. 3. As the prophet had said: “Let someone remove the evil of Umru from the neck of Muslims”, one stroke of AliA accomplished that gorgeous goal. 4. The victory of Ahzab was that of Islam over heathenism. Islam took roots from this victory, and it started blossoming and flourishing. 5. The Muslim morale was boosted, and the bitter memories of Uhad defeat were erased. 6. The political position of prophet became strong and the whole of Arabia started respecting MuhammadS and his access to Divine help.

Next day after the victory, the Muslim army returned back to Medina. They had been out of their homes for over a month. It was the month of Ziquad 5th Hijri. They were still preparing to lay down their weapons when Angel Gabriel brought the Divine Command: “First punish Banu Quryza for their treachery only then lay down your weapons”. A siege was therefore laid of the fortress of Banu-Quryza and they were ultimately banished from Medina, this has been discussed earlier on previous pages.

After this, the mission before the prophet was to punish all those tribes, which had breached the Medina Pact of Peace. Not only this, they had joined the enemy army and came to fight with Muslims, and were still in a mood of rebellion despite their defeat. The prophet attacked these tribes in the location of Zatul-Raqah and Domat-ul-Jandl. They fled without fighting. During this period news arrived that Bani Mustlaq were also conspiring, so instead of returning to Medina, the prophet marched into their territory.

Ghazwah-e-Mustlaq: (Sha’ban 5th Hijri i.e, November/December 627 AD ):

Bani Mustlaq was a clan of an ancient Arab tribe Banu Khaza’ah. This was the same tribe which had defeated Bani Jarhm and took control of their lands and Ka’ba. They ruled over this area for nearly 200 years (250 AD to 450 AD). 343

Then the IshmaelA Arabs drove them out, and the clans of this tribe scattered and settled down in various places, between Mecca and Medina. Banu Khaza’ah were Qahtan Arabs who had migrated to Arabian Peninsula from Yemen.

When Muslims came to Medina as immigrants, Banu Khaza’ah allied with the Quraiysh. The clans of Banu Mustlaq were living nine days journey away from Medina at a place called Al- Muraysi. After the Battle of Uhad they were planning to attack Medina. Their chief was Harris Bin Aby Zarar. When the prophet heard about their plan, he sent Zayd Bin Khasyb for investigation. He came back and conveyed that the news was true. Without hesitation or delay, the prophet marched on Al-Muraysi. Harris with his companions fled and hid in the mountains. However his tribesmen bravely faced the attack, but were forced to accept defeat. Ten of their fighters were killed, six hundred were arrested, and two thousands camels and five thousand sheep were taken as spoils of war.

Muhammad and the Amongst the prisoners was the daughter of Harris known as Javairya. Although course of Islam the fight was a small one, yet after it three events took place which have great Pages: 104-105 historical significance. These events were exploited by hypocrites by spreading mischief and rumours. Brief description of these events is given below.

An altercation between a Muhajir and an Ansar:

Seerat-un-Nabi Returning from Ghazwah-e-Mustlaq the Muslims camped near a spring. One Pages: 230-233 Muhajir who was the slave of Umer FarooqR and an Ansar Mannan Al-Jahny brought their horses for water at the spring. Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 They quarreled over who was to water his horse first, both claimed that they had Pages: 300 to 309 arrived at the spring first. As the quarrel heightened both called their companions for help. Hearing their pleas both Muhajirin and Ansar ran to help

their comrades. A fight would have ensued between the (Muslim) parties when some prominent personalities cooled down their tempers. Abdullah Bin Ubaii‟ (the leader of hypocrites) who was present there, taking

advantage of the situation, started shouting to incite the Ansar: Tafseer-e-Namoona4 “O people of Ous and khizrj! You have yourself brought this calamity and Pages: 131-139 distress upon yourself. You allowed the Muhajirin to enter your land and made Summary them partners in your properties. Now they have started claiming equality with Tareekh-e-Tabari you. It is not too late, time is still in your hands. Give up your patronage, they Page: 313 will soon leave”.

An Ansari Zayd Bin Arqm narrated this to the prophet, but the prophet did not react immediately. Umer FarooqR lost his temper and suggested: “O prophet! Order someone to execute this hypocrite”. The prophet replied: “O Umer! Will you like the word to go around that Muhammad kills his companions”?

Abdullah Bin Ubaii‟ Ibne Salool and his group, hid behind the veil of Islam and constantly hatched conspiracies against the prophet and Islam taking advantage of prophet‟s pardoning and 344 forgiving attitude. It was so because prophet did not want killing of these companions and wanted to give them respite as many of them in future were going to become loyal believers.

JavairyaR:

She was the daughter of Harris Bin Aby Zarar the chief of Bani Mustlq; who had a high status amongst the Arab chieftains. When she too was brought to Medina as a prisoner, he sent a message to the prophet: “The status of my daughter is such that she cannot become a maid (slave). Free her”.

The prophet replied: “Would it not be better to leave the matter on Javairya‟s consent”?

Javairya came to know about the request of her father and said: “I would like to remain in the service of Allah‟s Messenger”. Because of her decision, the prophet married her.

AyeshaR and the incident of Ifk: Verses 11-21 of the 24th chapter of the holy Quran Al-Noor comment briefly about this incident, about the chastity of AyeshaR (the wife of the prophet) and the slander which spread about her. This incident is known as Ifk (Accusation) in books of Tafseer, and history.

Majority of commentators narrate that while returning from the Ghazwah-e-Mustalq the Muslims army camped at some distance from Medina. Early in the morning, prophet‟s wife AyeshaR went nearby for call of nature, but as she was returning, her necklace fell down somewhere. It took her quite some time to search it. In the mean time de-camping started and those assigned to load the canopy of AyeshaR on the camel loaded it thinking that she was inside. When AyeshaR returned the caravan had departed. A companion of the prophet Suffwan Bin Mautl Salmy, who was assigned the duty of checking left-overs, found AyeshaR standing in the wilderness. He made her ride his camel and holding the bridle walked until they caught up with the caravan where it had stopped for noon rest. This incident was narrated by AyeshaR herself and is recorded by scholar Zehry. It is also written by Shaikh-ul-Tyfa in his book Bateyan and by Allama Tibrisi in his Maj-ma-al-Bayan. The truth was only this but hypocrite leader Abdullah Ibne Ubaii‟ accused AyeshaR, and some others joined him in the blame-game. It is narrated that before Suffwan could speak to the prophet or the prophet could ask Suffwan, Abdullah uttered such derogatory words, which I do not have the courage to repeat; however they can be read in Maulana Modudi‟s book Tafheem-ul-Quran Vol-3, on page 312.

The most surprising factor is why and how did a section of Muslims, instead of confronting the hypocrites, started spreading the rumor, and whispered to each other about it, without realizing that this act of theirs was hurting their prophet. They did not ask the hypocrites to shut up and stop the non-sense. The prophet displayed great restrain and patience, and waited for his Lord to speak on this matter.

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A month passed during which the prophet waited patiently, and only then the verses of Surah Al- Noor were revealed, which vindicated AyeshaR from all the evil that was said. The question arising in the minds here will be, why a delay of one month? It was because God willed a complete exposure of the hypocrites as well as others who were involved in this slanderous campaign.

This delay brought out the malignant evil nature of the rumors, which spread all over Medina, at public places, in streets, and in homes.

God admonished those who were involved:

Al-Quran Those who spread lies were a clique among you. Do not think that it was bad for Surah Al-Noor-24 you. Infact it has been good for you. Each of them will pay for the sins he has Verses: 11-18 committed, and he who had greater share (of guilt) will suffer grievous punishment. Why did the faithful men and women not think well of their people when they heard this and said: “This is a clear lie”? Why did they not bring four witnesses (in support of their charge)? And since they did not bring four witnesses, they are themselves liars in the sight of God. Were it not for the grace of God and His mercy upon you in this world and the next, you would have suffered a great affliction for the false accusation. When you talked about it and said what you did not know, and took it lightly though in the sight of God it was serious. Why did you not say when you heard it: “It is not for us to speak of it? Glory be to you (O Lord). This is a serious slander”. God admonishes you not to do a thing like this if you are a believer. God makes the signs clear to you. God is all-knowing, all wise.

In the words of Quran the incident proved a blessing for the Muslims although the enemies of Islam had tried to generate a chaos and turmoil in the society. The patient behavior and full confidence in Allah changed the scenario, from vice to virtue and malevolence to benevolence. By the Grace of Allah Muslims overcame a great disaster while those who accepted the lie, were warned not to act in this manner again.

The Divine verses were a grave warning for the hypocrites as Allah clearly indicated that all those who had taken part in this mischief-mongering would be punished according to their share of evilness. Greater the crime greater will be the Chastisement (specially for Abdullh Ibne Aby). About these verse Molana Modudi has raised another strange point, which is worth mentioning:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-3 The biggest lie is that Banu Ummya blamed AliA for this accusation. It is Page: 367 written in Bukhari, Tibrany and Baheqy: “Hisham Bin Abdul Malik relates that AliA was the originator of this accusation”. Obviously AliA had no part in this vilification. How could this have been possible when AliA always followed the prophet‟s footsteps.

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Important Events: 4th Hijri to 6th Hijri, (June 624 AD) to (April 628 AD).

Events of 4th Hijri: 1. Sarya Abu Salma (Muharram 4th Hijri):

Ibne Saad has written in Tabqaat that Sarya (small fights) or skirmishes series is that in which the prophet sent any one of his companion as commander, whenever any infidel tribe attacked Medina, or looted Muslim caravans or martyred Muslim preachers.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 This was the first Sarya. Prophet sent a battalion of 150 Ansar and Muhajir Page: 216 soldiers, to the hilly area of Qatn, under the command of Abu Salma. Prophet had learnt that both tribes of Talha and Khawyld were planning to attack Medina; but as Abu SalmaR reached there, they fled into the mountains.

2. Sarya Ibne Anees (Muharram 4th Hijri): Suffyan Bin Khalid the chief of Lhyan tribe was planning an attack on Medina. Prophet sent Abdullah Bin AneesR, who killed Suffyan and the revolt died with him.

3. The Incident of Byr Mauna (Saffar 4th Hijri): Abu Bara‟ Kalaby the chief of Bani Kalb visited the prophet and requested:

“If you will; send some of your companions to my tribe for preaching Islam, then my whole tribe will accept Islam”.

The prophet sent 70 preachers, majority from “Companions from Suffa”, with Abu Bara‟. When these preachers reached the spring called “Byr Mauna” the men of Amir Bin Tufail killed them, by deception. During the same time Azl and Qara tribes with help of Bani Lahyan, killed ten other preachers.

4. Banishment of Banu Nadyr (Rabi-ul-Awwal 4th Hijri): The Jewish tribe of Banu Nadyr abrogated Medina Pact and conspired the assassination of the prophet. They were then banished from Medina.

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5. Death of Fatima Binte AsadR: Tareekh-e-Ahmadi-4 It is written in Madarij-ul-Naboowah that the same year i.e, in 4th Hijri the Page: 46 mother of AliA, Fatima Binte AsadR (aunt of the prophet) died. The prophet loved and cared for her.

Anus Bin MalikR narrates that when Fatima Binte AsadR died, the prophet came and sat at her bedside and addressing her as “O my mother”, praised her and spoke about her qualities. He gave one of his own garments for the shroud of FatimaR so that she may be blessed in heaven. Prior to her burial, the prophet lay down in her grave, to free her from the calamities of the grave.

6. Death of Abdullah Ibn-e-UsmanR (Jamad-ul-Awwal, 4th Hijri): The six year old son of UsmanR, by RuqqyaR died. Two years earlier, during battle of Badr, RuqqyaR had died, which had grieved the prophet.

7. Birth of HussainA (3rd Sha’aban 4th Hijri): Second son was born to AliA and FatimaA. The prophet recited Azan in the right ear and Aqamat in left ear of this grandson of his. On the seventh day, the feast of Aqiqa was held in which the child was named Hussain. Historians and biographers have written that prior to the grandsons of the prophet, Hassan and Hussain were names unknown to the Arabs.

8. Marriage with Zainab Binte KhazymaR (Ramazan 4th Hijri): ZainabR was the widow of the prophet‟s cousin Abdullah Ibne HajshR. Abdullah was martyred in the battle of Uhad. Prophet married her in Ramazan 4th Hijri, but she lived for a very short period and died after a few months.

9. Zayed Bin ThabitR and Hebrew Language: In 4th Hijri prophet ordered Zayed Bin ThabitR (the scribe of Quranic revelations), to learn the Hebrew language. He learnt this language in fifteen days. The reason of this order was to read and understand Torah which was in Hebrew.

10. Marriage with Umm-e-SalmaR (Shawal 4th Hijri): The husband of Umm-e-SalmaR was injured in Ghazwah-e-Uhad and died in Jamad-us-Sani 3rd Hijri, of these wounds. The prophet married her a year later in Shawal 4th Hijri.

11. Case of the Jews:

The same year the Jews brought a case before the prophet, who settled it according to Torah and ordered Rajm (stoning to death). 348

12. Laws of inheritance, and banning of wine:

The laws of inheritance and their details were revealed and also about wine.

Important Events of 5th Hijri: During this year prophet stayed in Medina and brought about reforms of society.

1. Ghazwah Domat-ul-Jandl:

Spirit of Islam The descendants of Rabya Ibne Nazaa clan such as Bani Taghlab who were in Syed Ameer Ali Iraq, and Bani Qais who were in Bahrain, all had converted to Christianity. In Page: 64 Najran Bani Harris Ibne Kaab, in Iraq Bani Ibad, in Syria Al-e-Ghustan and in

Khaza’a and Domat-ul-Jandl Bani Kaab, were now followers of Christianity. th In the month of Rabiul-Awwal 5 Hijri, news reached Medina that an army was Seerat-un-Nabi-1 assembling in Domat-ul-Jandl. The prophet left Medina with a force of a Page: 230 thousand soldiers. When the miscreants heard about this, they fled into the hills and desert. Prophet rested there for a few days and then returned back.

2. After the above incident, until the month of Shawwal 5th Hijri, no important event took place.

3. Then in the month of Ziquad 5th Hijri, Banu Qurayza were exiled from Medina.

4. Marriage with Zainab Binte HajshR:

The same month of Ziquad 5th Hijri, the prophet married Zainab Binte HajshR, and stayed in Medina till the beginning of 6th Hijri.

Important Events of 6th Hijri: 1. Ghazwah Bani Lahyan (Jamad-ul-Awwal 6th Hijri):

Six months after the exile of Bani Qaryza i.e, in Jamad-ul-Awwal 6th Hijri, the prophet leading a battalion of soldiers moved to punish Bani Lahyan for their treachery and murder of ten preachers. This tribe had earlier, requested the prophet for preachers, but when the preachers reached them, they killed some of them by deceit, and sold the rest to the Meccan unbelievers. When this rebellious group heard about the Muslim attack, they fled in the mountains. The prophet then returned to Medina.

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2. Ghazwah Zyqard:

The prophet had just stayed for a few days in Medina when Banu Khazarah, a branch of gypsy tribe Bani Ghatfan, attacked the suburbs of Medina. They drove away camels of Muslims from the grazing ground, and also killed the keeper of the camels and abducted his wife. Amongst the Muslims who chased them was Salma Bin Umru in the lead. Who succeeded in bringing back some of the camels. The robbers took away a large number and disappeared in the desert. During this chase the prophet also assisted with his soldiers but the enemy had fled. So he stopped at the location of Zyqard mountain for a day and night and returned back to Medina.

3. The Expedition of Fidk:

The prophet learned that a group of Bani Saad Bin Bakr, have allied with the Jews. He sent a force of hundred horse-men under AliA ,in the month of Sha’aban (at the end of Ghazwah Bani Mustlq) towards Fidk, the area of Ban’i Saad. AliA traveled secretly during the night and camped during the day. Thus he succeeded in surprising the enemy. Banu Saad fled with their women. AliA returned with rich spoils of five hundred camels and two thousand goats.

4. Charter of Rights to the Priests of St. Catherine:

Spirit of Islam Close to these events, the prophet gave a charter of rights to the priests of St. Syed Ameer Ali Catherine (Church) on Mount Sanai, which included all Christians of the region. Page: 179 This charter provided some facilities to the Christians, which they had not received even from their own Christian rulers.

Along with it, this proclamation was made by the prophet: “If any Muslim will contradict, or would try to take unlawful advantage from this charter, he would be regarded as defying Divine agreement. Anyone who will oppose this charterwill belong to a group who has humiliated their religion. According to this charter:

1. The Christians were promised that no tax will be imposed on them. 2. No priest will be asked to vacate his region. 3. No priest will be asked to leave his monastery. 4. No Christian will be forced to change his faith. 5. No church will be destroyed for the construction of a mosque or a Muslims house. 6. Those Christian women who are married to Muslim men would not be forced to change their religion. 7. Christians will be given financial aid for the maintenance and repair of their convent, monastery and church. 8. If Muslims have to fight with Christians of other regions, no one will be allowed to mistreat the Christians of Muslim state.

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Peace Pact of Hudybia (Ziquad 6th Hijri):

Al-Quran Surah Fath-48 (O Muhammad), We have given you a splendid victory. Verse: 1

This first verse of Surah Fath was a great tiding from Allah to the prophet and he loved this good news. Many interpreters state this great revelation to be a prophecy indicating the success Muslims attainted after Peace Pact of Hudybia. It certainly proved to be a great victory, no parallel of which exists in human history, and this pact which was made in Ziquad 6th Hijri, between the Muslim state of Medina and the infidels, became the prelude to the conquest of Mecca. Almighty Lord also showed a vision of this victory to His prophet in a dream.

Al-Quran God has truly made the vision of His messenger come true. You will surely Surah Fath-48 enter the Holy Mosque (in Mecca) in security, with God‟s pleasure and without Verse: 1 any fear.

It is narrated that the prophet dreamt in Medina that he was entering the holy Ka’ba in Mecca, with his companions for pilgrimage (Umra). He spoke about this dream to his companions, who were very happy because almost six years had passed and they had not seen Ka’ba. They and their prophet had been yearning for a visit to Ka’ba.

Spirit of Islam They were forced to leave the sacred city of Ka’ba, which had been the centre Syed Ameer Ali of their culture and traditions. It was also the nexus of their history. Page: 184

The visit to Ka’ba was a tradition which had been the most sacred one for the progeny of AbrahamA. The whole of Arabia had been circumambulating the Ka’ba since centuries, from the times when AbrahamA re-built it on the foundations of the old site. This was a place of worship which was revered by the whole of Arabia. The Quraiysh were the custodians and guardians of Ka’ba, but the law of the land did not permit them to stop anyone from entering Mecca for pilgrimage. Even if they were enemies, but if their intentions were only to offer prayers, they had the right to enter Ka’ba,. During the pilgrimage if anyone met his father‟s murderer, he was not allowed to avenge his father‟s death. Ka’ba and it‟s precincts thus meant peace for everyone.

Departure for Umra:

These were the circumstances under which the prophet announced departure for pilgrimage as the month of Hajj approached. In response some 1400 believers also prepared for the pilgrimage. Mostly those who had a weaker faith kept aloof and did not respond.

With these Ansar and Muhajirin the prophet embarked on the journey. They were not armed, and carried only their swords which were regarded essential for travelers . They had no other weapon.

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Spirit of Islam When the infidel Quraiysh learnt about this, they gathered a large army to hinder Syed Ameer Ali them although this was against the ancient law of the land. They came out of Page: 184 Mecca and stood in the way of the approaching Muslim pilgrims.

However they left their position after a while and returned to Mecca, and then blocked all entries of the city. There they pledged that they would not let any pilgrim of Medina including the prophet enter the Ka’ba.

Site of Hudaibiya:

When the prophet reached a location A‟sfaan near Mecca, he heard that the Quraiysh have vowed to prevent him and his companions from entering Ka’ba. Still he continued his journey and camped 20 kilometer away from Mecca at a site called Hudaibiya. His followers said: “There is only a dry well here, it will not be suitable to camp here”.

Still the prophet ordered camping. All obeyed and saw the miracle that the well filled up with water with Divine blessings. The next day he sent a representative towards the Quraiysh, to obtain permission for entry to perform Umra. The arrogant Quraiysh misbehaved and mistreated the representative.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 In the mean time the chief of Bani Khaza’a Badyl Bin Warqa came along with Page: 36 some of his tribesmen, and inquired from the prophet the reason of his arrival. Prophet replied: “We have not come to fight with anyone, but only for the pilgrimage of the Ka’ba”. Badyl met the Quraiysh and advised them not to block entry of pilgrims, but the stubborn Quraiyah paid no heed to this advice.

In the suburbs of Mecca lived some tribes which were called Ahabysh and were allies of the Quraiysh. They were approached by the Quraiysh, and they sent their chief Halys Bin A‟lqa, to talk to the prophet and to convince him to return. But when he came and he saw the Muslims were wearing “Ahraam” (two unstitched cloth pieces worn for pilgrimage) and sacrificial camels with collars in their necks standing-by, he was convinced that the Muslims had arrived only for pilgrimage. So instead of having a meeting with the prophet he returned, and informed Quraiysh: “Upholding the honor and magnificence of the Ka’ba, they have come for pilgrimage. If you will stop them from performing Umra, my tribesmen will not be on your side”.

The Quraiysh had a dilemma that if they hinder the Muslim pilgrims from visiting Ka’ba, the other Arab tribes will reproach them, and if they allowed them then their personal dignity will be damaged for all Arabs will taunt them that: “They are scared of Muslims”.

Their vicious minds could think of only one plan; how to convince their allied tribes that Muslims had hidden aggressive designs under the veil of pilgrimage, and that they had cleverly

352 chosen the Haraam month (the month of peace) for accomplishing it. This would naturally unite all Arab tribes against Muslims, and a battle with them would then be possible.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 For this objective, they planned to raid Muslim camp, so that the prophet could Pages: 32-37 be instigated for retaliation. One night nearly fifty persons sneaked into the Muslim camp. They pelted stones and showered arrows at the tents in the camp. Companions of the prophet caught them and brought them before the prophet, but he released them all.

On another occasion they attacked right at the time when Muslims were preparing for morning prayers. The courage and vigilance of Muslims helped them in capturing the attackers, but they too were released by the prophet without any retaliative action.

Thus the Messenger of Allah defeated all tactics of the Quraiysh, by his foresight and strategy.

At last they sent a very clever person U‟rwa Bin Maso‟od Saqfy with a detailed briefing, to the prophet. U‟rwa was greeted well and treated with respect and was given the same reply as given earlier. When he returned to the Quraiysh he was a changed person. He reported what he had seen and felt, he said: “I have visited the courts of Caesar, Khusrau and Najashy, but I have never witnessed a scene of the kind I saw in the Muslim camp. The followers of MuhammadS, at the time of him performing ablution, did not allow any drop of water to fall on the ground, instead they rubbed it on their body as a benediction. Now think what kind of people you are challenging”.

UsmanR and Bait-e-Rizwan:

All plans of the Quraiysh had failed. They were in a state of confusion when the prophet sent UsmanR to Mecca to negotiate. The reason of this choice was that UsmanR was from the tribe of Banu Ummya, the main tribe of Quraiysh of which Abu Suffyan was the chief. UsmanR gathered the Quraiysh Chieftains and delivered the prophet‟s message:

“We did not come for fighting but for pilgrimage and have brought sacrificial camels with us. After circumambulating and offering sacrifices, we will leave”.

Quraiysh did not pay any heed to prophet‟s message, neither did they harm UsmanR, but they did not allow him to leave. Someone spread the rumors amongst the Muslims that UsmanR was killed in Mecca.

Bayt Rizwan:

This news greatly complicated the situation. Now that prophet‟s emissary was killed, it became necessary to fight and take revenge. It was a trial and test for Muslims, they were only 1400 in number, and had only swords as weapons. They were not carrying even defensive weapons like an armour or a shield; whereas they were surrounded by fierce enemies, thirsty of their blood. The 353 prophet gathered them in an open ground. There was a lone tree in that ground, under which the prophet addressed his companions: “I will not move a step back from this place until I fight the infidels”.

Then he took allegiance from all his companions, all of them pledged that: “None will keep back from Jihad and would fight till death”.

The whole congregation pledged on prophet‟s hands for their Lord‟s gratification. Allah was pleased, and revealed these verses:

Al-Quran God was pleased with the believers when they swore allegiance to you under the Surah Fath-48 tree, for He knew what was in their hearts, and sent down tranquility on them, Verse: 8 and rewarded them with an expeditious victory, and the many spoils they were to take. God is all mighty and all wise.

Thus, the Muslim force of 1400 was prepared for Jihad. The pledge had infused new vigor amongst them, now they feared neither the foe nor death. When this news reached Mecca it terrified the Meccans. Their fear ,made them act swiftly and they released UsmanR. When he reached the Muslim camp all thanked Allah and offered their gratefulness.

Following UsmanR, came a Quraiysh peace delegation under the leadership of Sohail Bin U‟mru.They were still adament that Muslims would not be allowed to enter Mecca this year. After a long debate and deliberation a pact was drawn.

Pact of Hudaibiya:

When it was decided to have a written pact, the prophet ordered AliA to write: “In the name of the Most Merciful and Gracious One ( )”. Sohail said: “I am not aware of these words, hence start with the words “Bismik-al-Lahumma ( )”.

The prophet said alright, write as he says. Then prophet dictated: “This is an agreement between Muhammad the Messenger of Allah and Sohail Bin Umru”. Again Sohail interrupted and said: “If we had acknowledged you as the Messenger of Allah, then we would not have fought with you. So just write your and your father‟s name”. The prophet then said: “It does not matter, write Muhammad Bin Abdullah”.

The terms of the Pact were as under:

1. For ten years there will be no war between the two signatory parties, to provide peace to the people. 354

2. During this period if any person fled from his master, to seek asylum with the prophet, he will be returned. 3. But if any supporter of the prophet went over to the Quraiysh, he will not be returned. 4. If other Arab tribes desired to ally with any of the signatories and become a party to the agreement, the signatory parties will have the authority to take them in. 5. The prophet will return this year, but he will be allowed for three days only, for Umra the next year, with the condition that Muslims will not carry arms except their swords. During these three days the local inhabitants will leave Mecca. While leaving for Medina, Muslims will not be permitted to take anyone from Mecca with them. When these conditions were being written some Muslims felt worried. However the pact was witnessed by some and signed by Sohail Bin U‟mru and the prophet.

Spirit of Islam The moderation, tolerance and temperament exhibited by the prophet, troubled Syed Ameer Ali many of his passionate followers who had not forgotten the evilness and wicked Page: 185 behavior of the Quraiysh. They were also confused by the postponement of the pilgrimage as in his dream prophet had seen performance of Umra.

When they inquired, the prophet explained to them: “The dream had not clearly indicated that pilgrimage will definitely be this year. With the Divine Blessings we will visit Ka’ba next year”.

Precisely at the same moment that the agreement was being signed, the son of Sohail-bin- U‟mru, called Abu Jandl (who had embraced Islam but was kept as a prisoner by his infidel father), somehow escaped and reached prophet‟s camp. He requested prophet to get him freed from his father‟s clutches.

But the prophet returned him to his father, as the Pact had been signed, and one of the conditions of the pact was to return any Meccan if he escaped to take refuge with the prophet.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 The situation was already tense and it worsened further when the prophet asked Page: 41 his companions: “Sacrifice your animals, shave your heads and put away the Ahrams”. (the ending conditions of Umra and Hajj). None moved from his place, the prophet ordered thrice but none moved. This made him sad and shocked, he silently went into his tent and sat besides his wife Umme Salma. She alone had accompanied him in the journey. When he confided in her, she requested: “please don‟t be worried, go out silently and slaughter your camel and call the barber to shave your head, then they all will follow you, as they will understand that whatever is decided is not going to change”.

The prophet acted according to her advice, and the followers followed suit, though their hearts were full of sorrow. After performing all the rituals his caravan started the return journey, yet in their hearts they regarded this peace pact their defeat and insult. Then Allah sent Angel Gabriel who appeared at the location called “Zajraan” 25 miles from Medina, with the revelation of Surah Fath. The prophet gathered all the Muslims and declared: “O People! What has been revealed to me today is the most precious thing for me in this whole universe”. 355

Saying this he recited the whole Surah Fath. Hearing it, the true believers were fully consoled and satisfied, and only after a small span of time all others too started witnessing the advantages of this pact as they started appearing. Then did they fully comprehend the importance of the pact. No one could then doubt that this pact was actually not a defeat but a concealed victory in the long run.

Consequences of Hudaibiya Pact:

 The pact for no war for a period of ten years brought the greatest benefits to Muslims. It brought peace to the entire region and to all tribes. For example, in the south from Tai’f to Mecca, in the eastern hilly tracks and deserts gypsy/beduins and all the settled tribes, in the west along the famous trade route along the shores of Red Sea, peace prevailed everywhere. The Muslims were saved from attacks of the enemies, their trade caravans too now had safe journeys.  This period of peace gave the prophet the respite and the time in establishing and strengthening the Islamic system of governance in the newly formed state.  The Arab tribes, which were almost in a state of war, now got the chance of meeting each other freely. Smooth uninterrupted travelling also helped in the expansion of Islam, which was not possible previously.  The Muslim traders who had suffered great losses, now prospered. As trading became safer, they were able to supply their goods in the markets, which increased their credibility again.  Politically this peace pact on which both the Quraiysh and their allies agreed upon, was a great victory of Islam and the Muslims. This pact unintentionally proved an acknowledgement of the Islamic state by the infidels. Prior to this, they called Muslims a rebel group of their faith, whom they had expelled from the Quraiysh community. This Pact therefore acknowledged the prophet as a legitimate independent power, and doors were opened for the Arab tribes to freely join which-ever side they preferred.  The right of Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca was accepted. This automatically affirmed the fact that Islam was a religion which had great respect for Mecca and Ka’ba.  The most important tactical advantage was gained by the prophet through the Baiyt-ur-Rizwan. This Pledge of only 1400 Muslims, surrounded by the infidels who outnumbered them greatly, in essence terrified the enemy. Muslims who had whole-heartedly pledged on the hands of the prophet, despite the risks attached, no doubt pleased their Lord, who rewarded them with His Blessings.  The blessings promised by God came in the form of victory of Jewish stronghold of Khyber. The spoils of Khyber, brought prosperity and wealth to Muslims. This victory which came within two years of the signing of Hudaibiya pact also ended the power of the Jews from the region.  The peaceful atmosphere around the Islamic State of Medina gave the prophet an opportunity to communicate with the neighboring powers and to invite them towards Islam. The prophet sent letters to the rulers of Persia (Iran), Ethiopia and Rome. Thus a beginning was made for spread of Islam outside Arabia.

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Chapter - 10 Invitation of Islam to neighboring states

After returning from Hudaibya, the first thing done by the prophet was to send invitation of Islam to rulers of neighboring countries. He chose his trust-worthy persons as emissaries and sent them with his personal letters to the following rulers:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Emissaries. Rulers. Page: 257 1.Wahya Kalby. Caesar of Rome. 2. Abdullah Bin Huzafa Sahmi. Khusro Parwez of Persia. 3. Hatib Bin Balta‟h. Ruler of Egypt. 4. Umru Bin Ummya. Najashy of Ethiopia. 5. Saleet Bin Umru Bin Abdul Shams. Nobles of Yamama. 6. Shuja Bin Wahb-al-Asady. Noble Haaris Anafy of Syria.

These were the notable countries around Medina, while the most important were Rome and Persia (Iran).

Caesar Heraclius was the powerful Emperor of the Great Roman Empire. The letter sent to him read as follows:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 In the name of Allah, the most Gracious and Powerful Pages: 259-262 From: Muhammad, who is the servant and messenger of Allah. Spirit of Islam This letter is for Caesar Heraclius. Syed Ameer Ali Pages: 185-187 Peace for one who is the follower of guidance to righteousness. I invite you to Islam. Accept Islam and you will live in peace. Allah will bestow upon you twofold reward. If you will not do so the burden of the sins of all your subjects will also be on your neck. O! ye the believer of the Book (Bible), accept that which is common amongst us; which is, let us worship One and Only One God. If you do not believe in it, then beware that we (Muslims) do believe in it”.

Heraclius heard the translator read out this letter, and gave full respect to the emissary of the prophet. His reaction was also polite and considerate.

The letter written to Khusrau Parwez too had the same contents, but the Persian emperor regarded himself superior to all mankind. He took the letter as an insult and below his eminent status and dignity. Infuriated, he spoke to the emissary: “Being my slave, how dare he write in this manner to me”?

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Uttering these words, he tore the letter into pieces, and insulting the emissary asked him to leave. When the emissary returned to Medina and reported this incident, the prophet said slowly: “The Empire of Khusrau will be torn to pieces, just like the letter was torn by him”.

Prophet‟s emissary sent to Ethiopia had three objectives. All these were achieved:

1. Invitation of Islam which Najashi readily accepted, and wrote back to the prophet: “I hereby stand witness that you are the real and true Messenger of Allah”. Jaffar TayyarR who still lived in Ethiopia under asylum, was the one on whose hands emperor Najashi swore his allegiance. 2. Second objective was to thank Najashi for his courtesy and kind treatment of the Muslim asylum seekers. 3. Third objective was the request for return of Umme HabibaR to Medina. Umme HabibaR was the daughter of Abu Suffyan and sister of Muawiya. She was married to a cousin of the prophet, Ubaidullah Ibne Hajsh. Both husband and wife had embraced the faith in the initial stages of Islam in Mecca. They sought asylum in Ethiopia about 7 years before prophet‟s migration. There Ubaidullah had a change of heart and converted to Christianity. Due to religious differences, a separation occurred between them; thus Umme HabibaR was left alone in Ethiopia. She could not return to Mecca due to fear of her father who was chief of infidel Quraiysh. She could not even think of changing her faith to the older one as she loved Islam. For her staunch belief, God blessed her with the companionship of the prophet. The prophet wrote to Najashi: “Give my proposal of marriage to Umme Habiba, if she accepts it, then pay the dower and construe the matrimony and send her to Medina”. Umme Habiba readily accepted the proposal. Najashi acted as the prophet had requested, and sent her by a ship to Medina with a group of Muslims.

Ruler of Egypt, Maqawqas read prophet‟s letter himself and answered in Arabic. He gave respect and sent gifts for the prophet. He also sent two girls Marya Qubtya and Siyreen. About them, he wrote: “These are respected girls of our country, please accept them”.

Along with the gifts there was a mule called “Duldul”, of a high pedigree. The prophet kept him for his personal use.

The Noble of Yamama replied: “Whatever you say is good to hear, but I must also have a share in your government, then I will follow you”.

The prophet replied: “There is no place of greed and lust in Islam”.

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The Ghusany chief of Syria, (which was a subservient state of Roman Empire), humiliated prophet‟s emissary and threw him out of his court.

Another leader of Syria, Sharjeel Bin Umru, mercilessly murdered another emissary. This rash and unethical act of arrogance resulted in a war, which brought Muslims and Christians face to face as enemies (in the battle of Mauta).

The Jewish Forts of Khyber:

Khyber is a Hebrew word meaning fort. These forts were in the north-east of Medina nearly 200 miles away. The vast Oasis around the forts was fertile and full of orchards. The Jews had the oasis in their control since centuries, and had built settlements in the form of many forts which were called Khyber.

Initially Banu Nadyr and Banu Qaryza settled down in Khyber, and some time later one branch of these tribes moved down and settled in Medina. When the prophet exiled them from Medina, they went and took refuge in Khyber. The chief of Banu Nadyr Salam-Abil-Haqiq was able later to capture the largest fort of Qamoos. He was an intriguing man and did not stop from conspiring and hatching intrigues against the Muslims. For this crime of his the prophet ordered his killing. He was killed, in his own fort, by an Ansar named Abdullah Bin A‟tk, while sleeping. After his death, Asyr Bin Zaram and after him, his nephew Kanan Bin Rabi‟y was chosen as the chief and ruler.

United Front against Islam:

The entire region of Khyber was a strong-hold of Jews, who had ancient ties with Banu Ghaftan and Bedouin tribes. Now they tried to form a united front with them against Muslims. When Muslims returned to Medina after Peace pact of Hudaibiya, and prophet learnt about this situation, he sent Abdullah Bin RawahaR to investigate. Abdullah was able to establish contact with Asyr Bin Zaram secretly and succeeded in learning about his war plans. He informed the prophet, who then sent him back with a delegation of 30 men to prepare Jewish mindset for peace talks. Abdullah convinced Asyr to meet the prophet and negotiate peace. Asyr then departed for Medina with his men along with Abdullah. During this journey a situation of mistrust arose and Asyr suddenly pounced on Abdullah and snatched his sword. He was about to kill Abdullah, when the alert Muslims retaliated. This started a fight, Asyr and his companions were killed, and Abdullah informed the prophet of the incidence. The prophet then summoned Muslims and in his sermon announced war against Jews, and also declared that: “Only those will be allowed to accompany us who are devoted to fight in the name of God”.

Thus the prophet declared that those who are of weaker faith and the hypocrites would not be allowed to accompany the expedition.

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When the news of Asyr‟s murder reached Khyber, his companions were furious. They had already formed a united front against the Muslims. They now made the nephew of Asyr, Kanana Bin Rabi‟y their chief, and secured themselves within their forts on Kanana‟s order, as they believed their forts were invincible. Khyber was a group of six fortresses of Naym, Salm, Natatha, Shq, Sarbt, and Qamoos, holding an army of twenty thousand soldiers. Qamoos was the largest and strongest one. A moat surrounded it and special arrangements were made for its defence. Warrior Marhb, who was regarded equal to one thousand soldiers, was the Chief Commander of this army. He had famous warriors like Harris, Antr, Rabi‟y and Yasyr, under his command.

Muslims were fully aware of this formidable strength of the enemy. Their own army consisted of 1600 soldiers, 200 Cavalry and the rest infantry. The prophet divided his army into three portions and got three Flags made. The chief Flag bearer was AliA Ibne Abu Talib while Hubab Bin Manzar, and Saad Bin Abad held the other two flags. Prophet himself was the commander of the whole army. In Muharram 7th Hijri, the prophet made Sama Bin Urkhata Ghaffary the incharge of Medina and marched towards Khyber.

A‟amir Bin Alakoo‟ was a famous poet. He walked ahead reciting martial songs to boost the spirit of the soldiers: “O Lord! If you would not have shown the path to us we would not have been guided. We would not have spent in charities and would not have fasted. We devote our lives to you, O Lord, forgive our sins. And keep us steadfast in the battle”.

Reaching near Khyber, the prophet camped at Raje’y, a location in between the area of Banu Ghaftan/Banu Kharaza and Khyber. The soldiers of Banu Ghaftan came out to fight, but when they saw that their own homes were in danger, they returned back to defend their homes. Because of this strategy of prophet, Jews could not get the help of Banu Ghaftan.

Ghazwah Khyber:

The prophet made Raje’y the base. Tents were erected here, and all animals and provisions were left there under the security of guards. The Muslim Army then marched forward towards Khyber forts. As they reached a location known as Sehba, they offered Asr prayers, and entered the boundaries of Khyber. As night approached, they came within sight of the buildings, the prophet then ordered the army to halt and raising his hands towards heavens he prayed: “O Allah! We ask for the welfare of the residents of this region, and of all things found here, please protect us from their evilness”.

After this prayer, he ordered them to make camp for the night. Early in the morning they marched towards the Nae‟m Fort, the first of the six forts.

Mahmud Bin Muslma with his soldiers attacked and fought bravely. Tired he sat down in the shade of the fortress wall, but the enemy was keeping him in sight. They threw on him a mil-stone from the ramp and killed him, however this did not stop their defeat. Mahmud was martyred by 360

Kanana himself. After the first, one by one other fortresses fell and Muslims kept on gaining easy victories. The Jews had positioned only limited number of troops in the small forts, because they used them as a bait, so that Muslims should keep on moving towards the largest fort of Qamoos, where a large force lay in wait for the prey. Here, the most fierce and final battle was to occur.

The prophet picked out Umer FarooqR and Abu BakrR to lead the attack.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 The prophet sent Abu BakrR and Unme FarooqR one by one to lead the attack Pages: 270-271 but both came back unsuccessful. The night came and the prophet addressed his men:

“Tomorrow I will give the flag to a person who is bravest of the brave, who never retreats. Allah will give us victory through him. He is a devotee of Allah Sahi Bukhari and His Messenger, and both Allah and the Messenger also love him”. The companions of the prophet narrate that it was a strange night of hope and expectation. It lingered on as each person was restless and anxious to find out whom the prophet will gave the flag and which hand will uphold it towards victory.

Victory of Qamoos and Khyber:

Early in the morning people heard prophet saying: “Where is Ali”?

This summoning of AliA was something unexpected, for all knew AliA was sick with inflammation of eyes. AliA heard prophet‟s call and despite his condition came to the prophet with a bandage covering his eyes, he was restless with pain. The prophet looked at him and asked him to come nearer. As he came near, the prophet wet his finger with his saliva and rubbed on his eyes. A miracle occurred and AliA was cured from sore-eyes.

The prophet gave him the flag. Taking it in his hands, AliA asked: “O prophet of God! Should I convert the Jews to Islam by fighting”?

The prophet replied: “Put Islam politely before them, if only one individual accepts your offer and embraces Islam, it will be better than a whole row of red camels”.

The life of Taking the flag, AliA led his soldiers immediately towards the Qamoos fort. In S Muhammad one hand he had the flag and in the other his sword Zulfiqar. He was full of Pages: 1560-152 confidence in his prophet and marched forward as a victor even before the fight. Reaching the fort, he erected the flag near its walls. He was about to jump over the moat, when suddenly Harris the brother of Marhb with some soldiers blocked his way. He was that warrior who had twice defeated the Muslims single handedly.

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Killing of Harris:

This great warrior of Bani Israel was attacked by AliA and was killed with one stroke. His followers terrified retreated into the fort.

Killing of Marhb and Untr:

This situation infuriated Marhb (the brother of Harris). He was known as invincible among the Jews. With great pomp and show he emerged from the fort. He had double folded turban on his head, with a stone helmet, the front of which was adorned by a pearl as large as an egg. He was wearing a double armour, and had two swords, whereas his spear had three-headed blade. All these weapons which he carried displayed not only his anger but also his fear. He recited the war verses and all those who were present heard him spell-bound. He shouted: “The whole of Khyber knows I am Marhb, I am brave, experienced and wear special armour”.

AliA heard, stepped forward, and answered: “The whole of Arabia knows that I was named Hyder by my mother, I am a lion”.

As Marhb heard this, he was enraged. He jumped forward and attacked with his lance. AliA took the blow on his shield. The three-edged lance blade stuck in the shield, as Marhb tried to pull it out, AliA attacked swiftly with his sword. The sound of the sword striking Marhb‟s helmet was so loud that the whole army heard it. They also witnessed that the sword piercing through it had split his head into two, and struck his teeth.

Marhb fell on the ground with a thud, his brain splattered all around and soon his body was covered with his own blood. When they heard, AliA‟s Allah-o-Akbar, the companions of the prophet rushed forward and the Jews retreated and ran towards their fort and closed it‟s iron-gate.

Then Unter came out of the fort to fight but met with the same fate. After his death the fort guards tried to resist, but many were killed by AliA and his soldiers. Seeing this they ran back into the fort. When AliA with his comrades reached the fort, the iron-gate was locked, and could not be opened. Reciting the name of his Lord, AliA took the gate‟s handle in his right hand and pulled it out of it‟s foundations. The prophet and his followers then saw an incredible scene. AliA put the shutter of the gate across the moat which now worked as a bridge and Muslims easily crossed into the fort. Many Jewish soldiers fought and lost their lives and the others surrendered. The invincible fort was thus conquered.

The conquest of all Khyber forts was completed in 20 days. In this expedition, 93 Jews were killed and 15 Muslims were martyred. The prisoners included the chief of Banu Nadyr, Kanana Bin Rab‟y and his wife Safia.

Hyat-ul-Qaloob Sheikh Tibrsy quoting Imam Muhammad BaqarA relates that after the victory, Pages: 664 to 666 the prophet moved towards the fort. As AliA heard about it, he ran forward to welcome him. Seeing AliA the prophet said: “O Ali! Your action today has pleased Allah and I too am delighted”. 362

After the victory, general pardon was announced. Those Jews who desired leaving Khyber were allowed to be exiled. Amongst the prisoners Kanana was killed in punishment of Mahmood Bin Muslma‟s murder. The wife of Kanana was released and given the choice to stay in Khyber or to marry a Muslim. She chose the prophet, who married her. She embraced Islam prior to her marriage.

Land of Khyber:

After the conquest of Khyber, its lands were divided into two equal parts. One part was given to the ownership of Bait-ul-Maal (the State Fund) for meeting the expenses of State affairs and to fulfill the needs of the needy citizens.

The second part was equally shared by all those who took part in the Ghazwah. The Cavalry got twice to that of the infantry. The conquest of Khyber broke the back of Jewish power, and the infidels of Mecca lost a powerful ally.

Valley of Alqwa and Fidk:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 There is a valley between Khyber and Tyma’; it has many settlements, and is Page: 278 called valley of Alqwa. Yaqoot has written in Majma-ul-Baldan that in ancient times the nations of „Aad and Tahmud used to reside here . The valley has many archeological sites of the settlements of these nations. Centuries ago Jews moved in and occupied the valley. They developed an irrigation system which helped them in agriculture. Until 7th Hijri this valley had special attraction for Jews.

After conquering Khyber, the prophet moved towards this valley. He did not intend to fight, but the Jews started the fight and the prophet had to respond. However after a brief battle Jews laid down their weapons on the same conditions as those of Khyber. The Oasis of Fidak was nearby. It was the most fertile land in the whole valley.

The people of Fidk were peace loving, they came to meet the prophet and requested for peace. They were then allowed to keep tilling the land but pay half of the produce to the prophet. As Fidk was not attacked by Muslims hence it became the property of the prophet in accordance with the sixth verse of Surah Hashr (which is called Fay by Quran). Thus the whole Oasis of Fidak became prophet‟s property who had the right to use it as he deemed fit. The prophet gave the orchards of Fidk to his daughter FatimaA.

Return of the Asylum-seekers from Ethiopia:

When the prophet reached Medina after the Khyber expedition, he learnt that Muslims have returned back from Ethiopia. Amongst them were members of his own family, like Umme Habiba, Jaffar Bin Abu Talib etc. 363

Umra-tul-Qaza (Zi-Quad 7th Hijri):

Reaching Medina from Khyber, the prophet spent the rest of the months of 7th Hijri in the city. During this period smaller expeditions were sent in the surroundings of Medina in order to maintain law and order. Delegations also arrived from many tribes with the intentions of embracing Islam. In Zi-Quad 7th Hijri as per Hudaibiya Peace Pact, the prophet planned for performance of Umra, and announced: “Prepare for Umra”.

This journey is called Umra-tul-Qaza in Islamic history. It was an elucidation of his dream he had an year before. The time had come for the dream to be fulfilled as the victory promised by the Almighty Lord in Surah Fath 48:27 had already been achieved in the form of Khyber. From this victory Muslims had gained war spoils in abundance. Now therefore the time had arrived in which Allah willed the prophet and other Mominin the pilgrimage of Ka’ba.

March 629 AD i.e, Zi-Quad 7th Hijri was the month in which the prophet along with 2000 companions started journey towards Mecca. The infidel Quraiysh in their enmity of Islam and personal arrogance, had no desire to either face or talk to these pilgrims. Hence they vacated the city and left for the hills for three days the Muslims were to stay in Mecca.

Entry of Muslims in Mecca:

It was an exceptional sight, the prophet and his companions were entering Mecca, which was still in the control of the worst enemies of Islam. The Muslims were entering the city whereas the so called custodians of Ka’ba were vacating the city, and were watching the scene from the top of the hills known as Abu-Qabys. It is a unique historical event. The European historians have written about it in great astonishment and perplexity.

Quran says about it:

Al-Quran It is He who has sent His prophet with the guidance and the true faith, so that He Surah Fath-48 may exalt it over other creeds. Verse: 28 God is sufficient as a witness.

The prophet was riding his favorite she-camel Qaswah, while Abdullah Bin RawahR was walking with the bridle in his hands.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 The prophet was chanting “Labaik” (Here I am to your bidding, my Lord) and Page: 279 Abdullah was reciting the following lines of poetry: “If you will try to stop us, we will attack with our swords. That blow which will separate the head from its neck Which will make friends forget each other”.

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The entire entourage of 2000 followers chanted Labaik after the prophet. Their voices echoed in the valley, it felt like the walls and hills all were in chorus with the prophet. The city resounded with Labaik.

The prophet dismounted in front of the Ka’ba, all others followed suit. All were in Ahraam, they had only one weapon with them, their swords which were in their Sheaths, thus they entered Ka’ba exhibiting peace.

Entry in Ka’ba and Umra:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 As the prophet entered the Ka’ba, he had his coverlet under his left arm, raising Page: 369 his right hand he said: “O Allah! You showered me with Mercy, and displayed my power to the infidels”. Then he kissed the pillar ( ) and with swift steps circumambulated the Ka’ba, and as he reached the Rukn Yamani ( ) he kissed it and then reduced his speed till he reached the Black Stone ( ). After kissing it, he again increased his speed. In this way he completed his circumambulation ( ), and also completed the necessary rituals. Then he and all Muslims sacrificed camels which they had brought with them. It is said they were sixty in number.

The prophet and his followers spent three days in Mecca. During his stay he married Memoona Binte Haris, who was his uncle‟s daughter and a widow. She was 55 years old, and had no supporter in Mecca The prophet brought her to Medina. Abbas, his uncle had suggested this marriage to the prophet.

After performing Umra all returned to Medina. They all had adhered to the peace pact, and had remained peaceful throughout this journey. Not a single incident had occurred which could disturb this peace, and which could give chance to the enemies to blame Muslims of breach of pact. This attitude of the Muslims was a direct result of the teachings of the prophet and the blessings which were sprouting out of his personality.

Such a display of tolerance, discipline and forbearance, set an extra-ordinary effect on all the tribes, settled around the route from Mecca to Medina. They were attracted towards Islam and soon many did embrace it. However, there were also some amongst them, who converted due to the vested interests as they could sense the wind of change in the balance of power of Arabia.

However Allah had warned His Messenger beforehand about them.

Al-Quran How (can they be trusted)? If they prevail against you, they will observe neither Surah Tauba-9 pacts nor good faith with you. They flatter you with their tongues, but their Verse: 8 hearts are averse to you, for most of them are transgressors.

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Battle of Mauta (Jamad-ul-Awwal 8th Hijri):

Mauta was a location in Syria near Balqa‟, in the south of the state named Ghusan. Prior to Islam, a clan of Ishmael‟s Arab descendants under the leadership of Nazaar Bin Rabi‟ya migrated to Syria, converted to Christianity and ruled those lands, which were a part of the Roman Empire. In the 7th century AD this whole region was called State of Ghusan, and different Princes, ruled over different city-states. One amongst them was Sharjeel Bin Umru who was the ruler of Balqa‟.

Reason of War:

Spirit of Islam After the Peace Pact of Hudaibiya the prophet had sent his emissaries to various Syed Ameer Ali rulers, one amongst them was sent to the court of Sharjeel Bin Umru, who had Page: 191 the messenger killed. This killing was against the international ethics and was a crime. This Ghusan prince was therefore asked for blood money by the prophet.

The officials, who represented the Roman Empire in the court of Sharjeel, took the blame on themselves, thus they involved the Roman Empire also in the conflict, and made it a much wider issue.

Departure of Army from Medina:

The prophet sent an army of 3000, under the command of three commanders.

1. Zayed Bin HarissR. 2. Jaffar Tayyar Bin Abu TalibR. 3. Abdullah Bin RawahaR.

His instructions were: Firstly, the chief commander was ZayedR, if he were martyred JaffarR was the next, and if he too was martyred then Abdullah Bin RawahaR was to lead. The second order was, first the enemies were to be given the invitation of Islam, if they accepted it then there was no need to fight.

This was the first Muslim army to travel so far away from Medina. It‟s destination was Syria in the north. The prophet himself, with some of his companions came out of the city to bid farewell, and gave the last minute instructions:

 Fear Allah (always).  Fight in the way of Allah against His enemies who are also your enemies.  Do not oppose the priests of the worship-places.  Do not raise your hands to harm the blind, the women, the children and the handicapped.  Do not destroy sacred places.

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 Do not destroy the fields, or cut down trees. When you had taken the revenge of Harris Ibne Umer, then give the invitation of Islam to all Arabs of the region.

As this army moved out of Medina Sharjeel was informed by his spies. He made a great hue and cry and called for helpfrom all sources. Thus he succeeded in gathering a large army from many Arabic tribes. His main sympathizers were Banu Bahra, Banu Lahm and Banu Bakr. He also got help from General Theodorous of the Roman Empire. Thus an army of nearly one hundred thousand soldiers gathered at Mauta, to fight the 3000 Muslim soldiers.

The Battle:

When the Muslim army reached the border region of Ghusany Kingdom known as Maan, they learnt about the powerful army of the enemy; this upset them. ZayedR wanted to send a messenger towards the prophet with the news and to seek the next order, while they waited. But Abdulah Bin RawahaR said: “No messenger can leave and come back in a day or two, as the distance is nearly 600 miles. It will take more time, it is not wise to wait for such a long period as we also do not have unlimited provisions. Our mission is to fight and get martyrdom in the way of Allah”.

Thus, the decision was made, they marched forward, reached Mauta and drew up their battle lines.

From the detailed accounts of this battle, as given in Tareekh-e-Tabari-1, Seerat-ul-Nabi-1 and other biographies of the prophet, it appears this was a battle of different style with which Arabs were not familiar.

Arab tradition was, first the brave warriors of both sides asked for their equal in one to one combat. But the Romans were used to a collective attack. This happened in the field of Mauta also. Muslims sent Zayed for individual combat, but the Romans in turn charged collectively and soon encircled the Muslim army. A fierce fight ensued, many were martyred, ZaydR was martyred too after fighting bravely. After him JaffarR took the command and lifted the flag, he fought on and on though his both arms were swerved, yet he did not turn back, nor did he leave the flag. Abdullah Bin Umer narrates he saw the corps of Jaffar with 90 wounds of spears and swords, all were in his front and none on his back. Abdullah Bin RawahaR then led the fight but he too was martyred.

When the soldiers saw that all their three commanders were killed, they tried to break the circle and flee. When Thabit Bin ArqmR saw this, he challenged them.

The life of “O holy warriors! You are besieged by the enemy, death surrounds you in the S Muhammad front, on right and on left. It would be far better to have wounds on chest rather Pages: 160-161 than on the back”. This challenging voice gave courage to the Muslims, those who were ready to retreat, turned back and fought in such a ferocious manner that the Roman were stunned, then Khalid moved forward and lifted the flag.

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As the evening faded, fighting was stopped until morning. When the Muslims returned to their camp, night had fallen and KhalidA was now the commander.

It is worth mentioning here that when the army had marched from Medina, the prophet had appointed three commanders and had also predicted their martyrdom. Despite this, he had not appointed a fourth commander. He had sent with his army Thabit Bin ArqmR and KhalidR-bin- Walid, both able commanders, but had neither advised, nor ordered anything about their command. It was a known fact that in the whole army they were the only two capable commanders after Zayed, Jaffar and Abdullah. Perhaps the reason was that the prophet was fully aware of the qualities of both Thabit Bin ArqmR and KhalidR Bin Walyd.

The former was a steadfast soldier, brave and courageous, whereas KhalidR Bin Walyd was an experienced war strategist. The prophet‟s will perhaps was that both should act together as the situation demanded. They could either attack with full conviction of Allah‟s help and force the enemy to retreat; or they could try and come out fighting from the siege of the enemy with Allah‟s help.

Thabit Bin ArqmR and KhalidR Bin Walyd consulted all night and decided on a retreat plan. Early in the morning after Fajr prayers, they divided the army into many battalions, and attacked the enemy just as sun rose, while the enemy was still not prepared. Their tactic was that one battalion chased and fought for a while then the second one attacked and the first one moved back and slowly retreated. Then the third one attacked and so on. This confused the Romans, they thought reinforcement had arrived for the Muslims during the night. They were witnessing the fearless fighting of the Muslims, who were filled with the desire of Jehad and martyrdom and fought like lions. This appalled the Romans Their courage was dented and they started moving back. This was the time that KhalidR Bin Walyd utilized to retreat his army to safety, out of Roma siege. Then this army was able to return to Medina without any counter attack by Romans.

In Medina the prophet knew about the situation through Divine Revelation. He gathered Muslims in the Mosque and gave them the news of the three commander‟s martyrdom. He wept over their death, and then he went to the home of JaffarR (his cousin) to console his family. When JaffarR‟s wife inquired about this extra-ordinary show of love, he wept and informed (Asma Binte Amys) about JaffarR‟s martyrdom. She wailed and moaned, loudly and started beating her head and chest and soon was joined by neighbors, as they too wailed. The prophet consoled them and said:

“Wailing and moaning in this outrageous manner is against patience. With grief, we must also thank Allah who raised JaffarR to such an exalted status. My prayer is may Allah bless his wife and children also to such an exalted position”.

Then people saw the prophet looking towards the skies and saying: “May Allah Bless you”. People asked: “O prophet! To whom are you talking to”? He replied: “Just now I saw Jaffar surrounded by Angels and moving. His two arms which were severed in the battle, Allah has given him wings in their place. These wings are adorned with gems. He gave salutation to me, I replied in return”.

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Treekh-e-Tabari-1 Few days after this incidence KhalidR Bin Walyd and ThabitR Bin Arqm Page: 384 arrived with their army in Medina. The prophet welcomed them outside the city. His companions also accompanied him, some were on foot and some rode

The Life of camels. Many children also ran along for the greeting. The prophet asked the MuhammadS riders to lift the children on camel‟s back. He himself lifted Jaffer‟s kids on his Page: 116 camel. Some emotional Muslims started throwing mud on the army (a sign of insult) and shouted: “You are absconders, have retreated from Allah‟s way”. The prophet stopped them and said: “Don‟t call them the defeated ones. Allah Willing, they will go back to complete their victory. Welcome them as they have returned safely”.

Importance of Battle of Mauta:

This Islamic army which returned from Mauta, was neither called the victor nor the defeated one. Yet it did not mean that the expedition had failed, because the success or failure of the expedition depended upon the results achieved. What were the results achieved by this expedition? The most important result was the upsurge of the reputation of Muslim fighters. The most powerful nation at that time, the Romans, realized this fact, and the awe of Muslim fighters settled down in their hearts.

Two years ago, after the Peace Pact of Hudaibiya, the prophet had sent letters and emissaries to the neighboring rulers of that era. The majority attached no importance to these invitations, and mocked, insulted and humiliated the emissaries.

Only the Roman Emperor Caesar Heraclius and Emperor Najashy of Ethiopia gave due respect to the Message and the Messenger, while Khusrau of Persia and Sharjeel the Ghasany Prince, acted most arrogantly. As a result Khusrau faced Divine Wrath and was killed by his own son. Sharjeel had executed the emissary and had to face the consequences. The Muslim army had the resolve to punish the perpetrators of the act, for which they travelled hundreds of miles and conveyed a message even to the Romans who helped Sharjeel (in raising such a huge army) that:

“Muslims are a truthful and valiant people, who believe in one and only one God (Allah). Their life and death is only for their Lord (Allah). The greatest aim of a Muslim is to die in the path of Allah, fighting for his cause. The commanders of Allah‟s army march forward with shrouds as turbans. They are not only bold, brave and courageous, but also are well-versed in the art of war. That is why they could take their soldiers safely out of a siege which was impossible to breach”.

Conquest of Mecca: (Ramazan 8th Hijri i.e, January 630 AD):

The Peace Pact of Hudaibiya was for 10 years, and the Muslims strictly adhered to its clauses. As time was passing, they were becoming aware of its importance, as many benefits of the Pact

369 were coming to light. Only two years had passed and Islam had spread in east upto Najd, in west upto the shores of Red Sea, in north upto the borders of Syria and in south upto Mecca. After the defeat at Khybar the Jews had lost their power. Now all Jewish settlements were subservient to Muslim state and paid their dues to state. The army had returned from Mauta, there was complete Peace and tranquility in Medina. All this greatly disturbed the infidels of Mecca. They had hoped the Romans and Ghusany’s combined forces would succeed in eliminating the nuisance of Muslims once for all. They had hoped that all Muslim warriors will die in the field, which will be the end of Islam. Their hopes were shattered, instead the Romans and Ghusany rulers were awed by Muslim valour. Islam was spreading far and wide amongst the Arab tribes, while many became allies. Then occurred an incident which heightened the anxiety of the infidels. Soon after Hudaibiya Peace Pact, a Muslim in Mecca escaped and reached Medina. The Quraiysh sent their representatives with the demand of returning that person. The prophet honoring the pact, handed over Abu Basyr to them. But he again escaped when they were enroute to Mecca. Abu Basyr then hid himself near the trade route to Red Sea and carried out surprise raids on trade caravans. Hearing about his courage and defiance, many other Muslims left Mecca and joined him. Their number increased from 1 to 70. The raids on caravans increased and Quraiysh got fedup. Then they requested the prophet to take these men into his custody in Medina. Thus one of the pacts condition became null and void, and Muslims started moving from Mecca to Medina unhindered. Now that the Quraiysh had lost this edge over the Meccan Muslims, they devised a plan of harassing the allied tribes of Muslims, so that they would desist and withdraw their help. To attain this, they along with their ally tribe Banu Bakr, attacked the ally tribe of the Muslims, Bani Khaza’a.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 Both these tribes were in the vicinity of Mecca. This sudden unprovoked attack Pages: 284-285 frightened and terrified Bani Khaza’a to such an extent that they took refuge in the Ka’ba. Banu Bakr soldiers halted and were reluctant to enter the Ka’ba (to attack) but their chief Naufal addressing them, said: “You will never have a better chance again, move forward and attack”. Many Quraiysh Chieftains such as Akrama Bin Abu Jahl, Saffwan Bin Ummya, Sohail Bin Umru and others joined Banu Bakr in the fight. Thus blood was shed in the precincts of Ka’ba and many Banu Khaza’a were killed.

The chief of Bani Khaza’a, Umru Bin Salam came to Medina along with forty camel riders and complained to the prophet: “O Allah! I have come to remind MuhammadS of the agreement which has been there between our clans since long. O Muhammad! O Messenger of Allah! Help us and send the followers of Allah for our help”.

The prophet called them in Masjid-e-Nabvi and heard their complaint. What he heard saddened him, he immediately sent out an emissary to the Quraiysh with three conditions, asking them to accept anyone of these.

1. Pay the blood money of the murders committed. 2. The Quraiysh should break up their alliance with Banu Bakr.

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3. It should be announced that the Peace pact of Hudaibiya is abrogated.

The Quraysh in their rage accepted the third condition. As the emissary of Medina returned, Quraiysh were afraid of this break-up of the pact and repented. So they sent Abu Suffyan after the emissary to Medina to get the pact renewed. Abu suffyan reached Medina but was not granted audience by the prophet. Losing hope, he visited AliA, who suggested: “You yourself have arrived for the renewal of the pact, so go to the mosque and announce yourself the renewal of Agreement of Hudaibya”.

Abu Suffyan did the same and returned to Mecca. He knew that he had not received any affirmation from the prophet, yet he told the Meccans about the announcement he had made. But this announcement confused the Quraiysh chiefs, they inquired: “What is the meaning of all this , is this a declaration of peace so that we feel content and secure, or it is a sign of war and we must prepare for it”.

While the Quraiysh were still pondering, the prophet in Medina started the preparation of an attack on Mecca. The news of the attack was a well guarded secret. Other than a few close companions, none knew anything about the army‟s destination.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 On 10th of Ramazan the prophet left Medina with a force of 10,000, under his Pages: 286-287 command. During the journey allied tribes also joined in; they marched swiftly and reached Mara-ul-Zuhr which was at a distance of one day‟s journey from Mecca. At this stage prophet ordered to camp in the desert. Tents of the soldiers spread out in the desert far and wide. As night approached, the prophet ordered litting of the bonfires all over the camp. Soon the flames rose and lighted the desert sands and surroundings of the camp. The desert sands also shimmered and gleamed bringing a cheerful auspicious atmosphere.

AbbasR joined the prophet:

Though the uncle of the prophet (AbbasR) had accepted Islam along with his family, yet he still resided in Mecca. It was a coincidence that as he and his family were on their way to Medina, they met the prophet and the Muslim army at Jaffa. AbbasR then joined the army and sent his family to Medina.

Meccans surprised:

The Meccan infidels were unaware of this development, so when the news reached them about the arrival of the Muslim forces they could not believe it. Hakeem Bin Hazaam, Abu Suffyan Bin Harb and Badyl Bin Warqa then went out to find the truth. In the mean time AbbasR (prophet‟s uncle) in an attempt to save Mecca from bloodshed, took prophet‟s permission to negotiate. He rode the white mule of the prophet with his permission, and started towards Mecca. God willed his efforts to bear fruit, because soon he spotted the three Quraiysh chiefs coming his way. Abu Suffyan recognizing Abbas inquired: 371

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 “O Abu-al Fazl! What is this matter (we have heard about)”. Pages: 392-394 Abbas replied: “Yes, it is correct. The prophet of God is here with an army of ten thousand soldiers. Can you fight him”? Abu Suffyan was perplexed, he asked AbbasR: “Can you suggest something that I should do”? AbbasR replied: “Come and sit behind me on my mule, and I will take you to the prophet and seek amnesty for you”. Abu suffyan accepted the offer, for this was an Arab tradition of seeking amnesty. Then AbbasR returned with him and entered the Muslim camp. All who saw them, knew that Abu Suffyan sitting behind AbbasR was seeking amnesty. Still no one had a shred of sympathy for him in his heart. Everyone remembered his previous acts, which asked for his execution. Yet silence prevailed as AbbasR and Abu Suffyan moved towards prophet‟s tent. As they passed the tent of Umer FarooqR, he lost his temper and rushed towards the prophet‟s tent. But Abbas was the first to reach and request amnesty for Abu Suffyan. Umer FarooqR objected: “O prophet! This great enemy of Islam is before you, permit me to kill him”. The prophet forbade him: “No, I grant refuge to him, I grant him respite of one night, bring him before me tomorrow after morning prayers”. Prophet perhaps wanted to give a chance to Abu Suffyan, he may have a change of heart about Islam after spending a whole night amongst the Muslims. Prophet perhaps also wanted to prevent Abu Suffyan from going back to Mecca and instigating trouble there, which could result in bloodshed.

Abu Suffyan and Islam: The next morning prophet asked Abu Suffyan: “Do you still not believe that there is only one Allah”? He replied: “If there had been another Allah, he would have helped us”. The prophet again said: “Is there any doubt that I am the Messenger of Allah”? He said: “Yes! There is a doubt in it”. At this moment, AbbasR interfered and spoke to Abu Suffyan: “What is the matter with you, recite the words of witness (Shahadah) and become a Muslim, or we will execute you”. Hearing this Abu Suffyan recited the Kalma, on which the prophet said to AbbasR: “O Uncle! Take him and make him stand on the peak when the valley is narrowest so that he could witness the splendor and glory of Allah‟s army as it passes by”.

Entry of the Prophet in Mecca: As he finished his words the whole army resounded with Allah-o-Akbar (Allah is Great) and it started marching forward in a disciplined way.

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Those Muslim allied Arab tribes which were settled close to Medina, and also those which were located between Mecca and Medina joined the Muslim army as it passed by. For example: Tribe. No. of Soldiers. 1. Banu Sulaym. 700 Soldiers, cavalry. 2. Banu Gaffar. 400 Soldiers, cavalry. 3. Banu Muzayna. 1003 Soldiers, cavalry. 4. Banu Juhayna. 1400 Soldiers, cavalry. 5. Banu Aslam. 400 Soldiers, cavalry.

In addition to them, many from the smaller tribes also joined the Muslim army. They too raised the slogans of their Lord as they marched on and passed the hill where Abu-Suffyan was standing. He was astonished. Then he saw the prophet riding his camel Quswa, surrounded by his guards known as “Al-Khzra”. These guards of the prophet wore green turbans and green gowns and consisted of the most loyal and brave of Ansars and Mohajirs and were heavily armed. Thousands moved to the left, right and behind the prophet. The standard-bearer was Saad Bin AbadaR. This scene greatly impressed Abu Suffyan who exclaimed: “Abbas, your nephew has founded a great kingdom”. AbbasR replied: “This grandeur and splendor is not that of a kingdom, but of Prophet-hood”. When Saad Bin AbadaR passed by, seeing Abu Suffyan he shouted: “Today is the day of killings of infidels, Ka’ba will be made Halaal today”. Those Meccans who had migrated to Medina but still had relatives in Mecca were disturbed by this announcement of SaadR. They complained to the prophet, who replied: “No! Saad is wrong, today is the day of Ka’ba’s magnificence and glory”.

Tareekh-e-Tibry-1 Saying these words the prophet ordered AliA: Pages: 395 and 397 “Take the flag from Saad and enter Mecca with it”. Abu Suffyan was afraid and worried about the Meccans as he saw the Muslim army‟s splendor. Abbas told him: “Now leave for Mecca immediately and warn your people”. Abu Suffyan reached Mecca and announced: “O Quraiysh! I hereby inform you MuhammadS is arriving with a great force, and you do not have the power to face him, hence do not think of fighting”. On the other side the prophet ordered his army to camp at Zytowa a location outside Mecca. While still sitting on his camel, he bowed his head before his Lord in thanks. After praying for some moments, he lifted his head and facing the Ka’ba said: “O Mecca! The abode of my ancestors and fore-fathers, my God knows how much I love you. If the residents of this city had not forced me to leave, I would not have prefered any other city above you”. He again thanked his Lord looked at his army both right and left and exercising 373

his sacred wisdom, while still riding the camel, he divided the army into four factions and summoned Zubyr Bin Al-AwamR. He gave him a flag and made him the commander of one faction having both Ansar and Mohajir soldiers. Then he instructed him: “Enter the city from its north and erect this flag on Mount Hajoon, and wait for my arrival and further instructions. Then KhalidR Bin Walyd was given another flag and made commander of Banu Aslam, Banu Gaffar, Banu Saylum, Banu Jahanya and Banu Muzyna and ordered: “Enter the city from the South into location called Lytt”. He urged them: “Do not use your swords or arrows until and unless you are attacked”. Then the third flag was given to Abu Abyda Ibne JarahR and the infantry was given under his command with its flag. Both Ansar and Mohajirs were a part of this faction too. He was ordered: “Take this army through and order it to stand on both sides of the road to Alkada”. Fourth and last faction: This was the largest division of Ansars and Mohajirs it also included the guards of the prophet. The flag of the Ansars was in the hands of Mateen Bin SaadR bin Abada and that of Mohajirs was in AliA‟s hands. The complete faction was under the prophet‟s command. The prophet saw to it that before he left Zytowa, an announcement was made by Abu-Suffyan in Mecca, declaring the amnesty granted by him. Abu Suffyan declared: “Today is the day of amnesty for those: 1. Who will lay down their arms. 2. Who will close their doors. 3. Who will take refuge in the mosque of the Ka’ba. 4. Who will take refuge in Abu Suffyan‟s house.

Entering Mecca with this arrangement and with such splendor had two main reasons. The first reason was that it was a day of great historical importance:  It was the day of grandeur of Ka’ba.  It was the day of removal of idols from Ka’ba.  It was the day of fulfillment of prophet AbrahamA‟s prayers.  It was the day of termination of idol-worship from the descendants of prophets AbrahamA and IshmailA.  It was the day of victory of Haq (truth), and defeat of Batil (false-hood).  It was the day of entry of Army of Islam into Ka’ba.  It was the day of glory and greatness of the truthfuls. The second reason was the wish of the prophet to enter the city of his great grandfather AbrahamA in such a manner that: 1. There should be no blood-shed. 2. No houses should be plundered. 3. Women and children should not be made slaves. 374

When all the arrangements were completed then the prophet lifted his hand, signaling the start of march. With the slogan of Allah-o-Akbar, the Muslim army moved forward. Zubaiyr Bin Al-AwamR moved swiftly towards Mount Hajoon to erect the flag. KhalidR Bin Walyd moved to the south of the city. The prophet was at the end of the infantry led by Abu AbydaR. The Muslim flag fluttered in the air and thousands of soldiers marched on the right left and back of the prophet. Prophet‟s tent was erected on Mount Hajoon. Although his own house was in Mecca, but it was occupied by infidels. Prophet did not like that it should be vacated.

As the prophet looked down from the heights of Mount Hajoon he saw shining of swords. He inquired: “What is happening? Did I not forbid you from fighting”?

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 He learnt that KhalidR Bin Walyd was attacked and the fighting ensued. What Page: 396 happened was Sufwan Bin Ummya, Akrama Bin Abu Jahl and Umru Bin Sohail, along with Hamas Bin Qays of Bani Bakr had conspired against the Muslims. They had stockpiled arms and asked negroes to join them. The secret plan was still in its initial stages that Allah‟s army arrived. All these conspirators now challenged KhalidR Bin Walyd. Many were killed in the fight, however the leaders managed to escape. Precisely at that moment the person sent by prophet to investigate arrived. KhalidR Bin Walyd stopped fighting and came before the prophet, explaining the whole incidence he said: “The infidels attacked, I only acted in self-defence”. This was the only incidence of blood-shed in Mecca. Apart from it no other fighting occurred.

Entry in Masjid-e-Haraam:

MuhammadS and the After staying in the tent for a brief period, the prophet came out and mounted his course of Islam horse, then he descended from Mount Hajoon and entered the Masjid-e- Page: 133 Haraam, the court yard of Ka’ba. As it was not the period of Hajj, the prophet wore his daily garments and was not in “Ahraam” (special wear for Hajj). Still Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 riding the horse, he circumambulated the Ka’ba, and touching the Black Stone Page: 97 (Hajr-e-Aswad) with the tip of his staff he kissed it. Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 After this the prophet reached the door of the Ka’ba and standing at a higher Page: 401 place addressed the people: “O Quraiysh! O people of Mecca! O Arabs! Take heed that Allah is One and has no partner. There is no Allah except Him, He has fulfilled His Promise. He helped his servant, and defeated the non-believers and polytheists”.

Now the prophet decided to enter the Ka’ba, but he was told that the key bearer of Ka’ba, Usman Bin Talha, in his fury had locked the door, and was now hiding in his home. Some people went out in his search. As the prophet looked around he saw 360 idols, placed around the Ka’ba and at the spot known as Hajr-e-Ismael. In their centre, was the idol of Habl, carved out of red coronation (stone). Among these were also two idols of AbrahamA and IshmaelA. The prophet now 375 deemed it essential to destroy all these idols first, so using the tip of his staff, first he struck the eyes of Habl.

Tafheel-ul-Quran-2 Abdullah Bin MasoodR has narrated that while the prophet was removing the Page: 638 idols he was uttering this Quranic verse: “Truth has arrived and Falsehood has vanished. Falsehood is always perishable”. 17:81 ( ). With these words, the most prominent idol of Habl was smashed by the prophet. Reciting the same verse, the prophet continued until all idols were smashed into oblivion.

Entry in the Ka’ba:

The Life of As soon as Usman Bin Talha unlocked the Ka’ba door, the prophet ordered S Muhammad Umer FarooqR, to cleans the walls of the Ka’ba of the pictures painted on them. Page: 169-186 UmerR along with some companions wiped the walls clean of the pictures. Then only did the prophet enter the Ka’ba, here too he smashed all idols.

However the idol made of bronze, which had been brought by the chief of Banu Khaza’a, and erected on the roof-top of the Ka’ba was beyond the reach of prophet‟s staff. So he summoned AliA and asked him to kneel down. As AliA obeyed, the prophet tried to mount on his shoulders to smash the idol. AliA narrates:

“As the prophet stood on my shoulders, he ordered me to rise, I was unable to do so, though I gathered all my strength. Then the prophet got down and he knelt himself, and asked me to mount his shoulders, I was hesitant and confused yet I obeyed. The prophet stood up with me on his shoulders. I felt at that moment as if I had risen to the heights of the Heavens. I tried to break the idol, but it was fixed firmlyon the roof. As I struggled, I heard the prophet reciting the verse: “Truth has arrived, Falsehood has vanished”.

As I heard these words, I succeeded in pulling it out. Then I threw it down on the ground, where it shattered into pieces”.

Sermon of Victory:

The prophet raised slogans of Allah‟s Greatness in the Ka’ba, after he had cleansed it of idols and false gods. He came out and stood in the door, as he saw the non-believers and idolaters, who had gathered in large numbers to know their fate. Standing in the door he addressed them. It was his first sermon after the victory and capture of Mecca.

Tafheem-ul-Quran “O people! Allah is One and One only, there is no one else to be worshipped. I Page: 97 thank Allah who has removed the evil of ignorance and arrogance from you. O people! Humans belong only to two types of groups. One group is of those

virtuous, forebearing persons, who are the respected ones in the sight of Allah. 376

The second group is of those sinful, vicious people who are contemptible in the eyes of Allah. Remember, all humans are off-spring of AdamA, and AdamA was created by God from mud.

The prophet then recited the following verse from the Quran: Al-Quran O people, We created you from a male and female, and formed you into nations Surah Al-Hujrat-49 and tribes that you may recognize each other. He who has more integrity has Verse: 13 indeed greater honor with God. Surely God is all-knowing.

. He then, inquired from the gathering: “O Quraiysh! What kind of treatment do your expect from me”? The Quraiysh who were deadly enemies of the prophet, spoke in total dis-agreement of their previous feelings and attitude: “You are the son of our kind and sympathetic brother. We expect beneficence from you”.

Tabari writes that these words brought tears in the eyes of the prophet. He, then recited this verse from Quran which pertains to the time when the brothers of prophet JosephA admitted their sins infront of prophet JosephA who was then the most powerful man in Egypt, next to the Emperor of Egypt.

Al-Quran “There is no blame on you today” Joseph said, Surah Yousuf-12 “May God forgive you. He is the most merciful of all”. Verse: 92

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 With this quote from the holy Book Quran, the prophet magnanimously forgave Page: 401 all Meccans. Allah had given this victory to the prophet without fight or the shedding of human blood. These Maccans were like “Fay”, hence they were often called “Talqa” the freed ones. (Fay is that wealth, property or resource which belongs only to God and the Prophet, as per Holy Quran). As the time of prayer approached, BilalR stood on top of the roof of Ka’ba and gave the Call (Azaan) which echoed in the whole valley.

Allegiance of the Meccans:

The next day i.e, 21st Ramazan morning, after the morning prayers, the prophet climbed the hill of Saffa; here a pulpit was made for him. General amnesty had been granted the previous day to all (except a few criminals). The Meccans and their allies were purposely given enough time (during the night) to think over. Now was the time to accept voluntarily the prophet and Allah‟s religion Islam. For this they had to pledge that: 1. They will not believe in polytheism but only in Monotheism i.e, will have faith in the unity of Allah. They will obey all commands of the prophet. 2. They will not indulge in robberies and decioties. 3. Adultery (being forbidden) will not be committed. 4. Killing of offsprings will stop (chiefly of girls). 5. They will not lie. 6. They will not charge accusations at women. 377

The scene in the valley of “Faran”, on the hill of Safaa (in Mecca), must certainly have been like the one which prophet MosesA predicted before his people of Bani Israel, before his death. MosesA said:

Holy Bible Before prophet Moses died, blessing the tribes of Israel, he said: Deuteronomy-33 “From Mount Sinai came the Lord. Verses: 1-2 He gave light to His people from Edom, and His glory was shining from Mount Paran (Faran). His warriors, in thousands, were with him, and fire was at his right hand.

This Biblical verse has two indicators, which point to prophet MuhammadS‟s above-mentioned episode: (i). Mount Paran (Faran). (ii). Thousands of warriors with him on that occasion. The Arabs specially Quraiysh now thought, as MuhammadS had overcome the Quraiysh, conquered Mecca and now that Ka’ba was in his control, it meant that he was a rightful prophet. This train of thought became the reason for them and their allies to announce their allegiance to Islam. The moment of victory also helped Muslims in forgetting and forgiving all past evils and high handedness of Quraiysh. Staunch enemies were now fearlessly entering Ka’ba in groups, and were coming near the prophet‟s pulpit where Umer farooqR was assigned the duty to sit near the pulpit and announce the name and tribe of each individual. The prophet stretched out his hand and the individual would put his hand in prophet‟s hand and pledge allegiance (Ba’it), thereafter he moved on. After the men, women came forward and pledged verbally. Amongst these women was also Hinda Binte At‟ba, the wife of Abu Suffyan. She came disguised, for she had committed heinous crimes. Not only had she spoken ill of the prophet many a times, but her greatest sin was the dismemberment of Hamza‟s corps (prophet‟s uncle) and physically chewing his heart in the Battle of Badar. The prophet had announced previously, death punishment for her. But when she arrived to embrace Islam and to pledge allegiance, prophet forgave her. Despite all this her attitude and manner of speech clearly indicates her evil wickedness of nature. What such a woman would have taught her sons can easily be imagined. Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 It is written in the history book of Tabari that as she faced the prophet, she Page: 402 rudely asked: “What are we asked to accept‟? The prophet said: “pledge that you will not associate any one with Allah”? She said: “We agree”. The prophet said: “You will not rob”? She said: “Agreed”. He said: “Will refrain from Adultery”? Hind said: “does a virtuous commit adultery”? The prophet said: “Agree that you will not kill your offsprings”. Hind replied: “We nourished and brought up our children, it was you who killed them in Badr”. The prophet said: “Agree that you will not slander”? Hind said: “Slander is contemptible” The prophet said: “Agree that you will not disobey any of my orders”? Hind replied: “We have not come here to defy or oppose your good orders”.

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After the allegiance ceremony, again general amnesty was announced and none was asked to accept Islam forcibly.

Spirit of Islam However a list of those four criminals was prepared, for whom judgment had Syed Ameer Ali been passed for death sentence. Amongst them was a foster brother of UsmanR, Page: 192 called Abdullah Bin Saad Bin Abi Sarah. He was hidden by UsmanR, and when R the prophet returned to Medina, Usman pleaded forgiveness for him and succeeded.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After the allegiance ceremony, the prophet stayed in Mecca for fifteen days, at the location known as Kheef. This was the same place of Shaeb Abi Talib where the prophet, with his tribe Banu Hashim, had stayed during the social boycott of the Quraiysh, who had driven him out of Mecca. During this short stay of 15 days, the prophet also settled the administrative matters of the Ka’ba.

1. He summoned Usman Bin Talha (the previous key-bearer) and handed over to him, the keys of the Ka’ba. 2. He did not disturb the treasure accumulated inside Ka’ba through offerings, however the idols made of silver and cornelian were destroyed. 3. Muaz Bin JablR was posted in Mecca to teach people Islamic commands and Shariah.

Destructions of Idols outside Mecca:

Outside Mecca there were many important idols installed, where similar rites were performed as for Hajj. Mecca had thus become the centre of idol worship and polytheism, having its branches in nearly all tribes of Arabian Peninsula. There were huge idols erected on all the roads leading to Mecca. Amongst these the famous ones were:

1. Uzaa: It was the god of Banu Kanana and Quraiysh. It stood, a mile away from Mecca, in the valley of Nakhla. Banu Shyba were its custodians. All those rituals which were performed at Kaaba during Hajj were also performed here, such as circumambulating it and offering of animal sacrifices. 2. La’at: it was the goddess of Hawazan and Tai’f . The Arabs believed that Allah lived in the house of Uzaa in summer and in the house of La’at in winter. 3. Mana’at: It was the god of Ous and Khizrij tribes. It was a large stone erected seven miles from Mecca at a location called Qadeed. 4. Sawah: this was also a large stone, erected at Raba’at and was the god of Banu Hazeel. Its trustees were Banu Lahyan.

Thus the whole of Arabia was under the spell of idol-worship and now the time had came for the breaking up of this spell. On the order of the prophet the whole of Arabia was cleansed of these gods and idols. Thus, Allah saved the descendents of IshmaelA from the curse of polytheism. This was a fulfillment of the prayer of AbrahamA of two thousand and five hundred years before.

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Al-Quran Abraham prayed: Surah Ibrahim-14 “My Lord, make this city secure, and keep me and my sons away from Verse: 35 worshipping idols”.

Ghazwah Hunyn:

Al-Quran Indeed God has helped you on many occasions. Even during the battle of Hunyn Surah: Al-Tauba-9 when you were elated with joy at your numbers, which did not prove of the least Verse: 25-26 avail. The earth and it‟s vast expanse became too narrow for you. Then you turned back and retreated. Then God sent down His tranquility upon His prophet and upon the believers, and He sent down hosts, which you did not see, and punished those who disbelieved. That is the recompense of the infidels.

Hunyn is a region near Tai’f city, as the battle was fought in this region hence it was called Ghazwah Hunyn. Quran calls it “The Day of Hunyn”. This region is also called the valley of Hunyn and is situated between Tai’f and Mecca. This battle is also named sometimes as Ghazwah Autas or Hawazn. This is because the Hawazn tribe initiated and fought this battle.

Causes of the Battle:

Hawazn and Saqyf tribes were close allies. They were the second most powerful warrior tribe in Arabia after the Quraiysh. Their valor and fighting tactics had become proverbal amongst the Arabs. They were nomads and moved in the south-eastern region of Mecca. They worshiped goddess La’at, whose idol stood in Tai’f . They enjoyed considerable influence over Tai’f citizens. Both these tribes were against Muslims and with the rise of Islam their enmity also rose. Prior to the conquest of Mecca, their chieftains were planning to attack Medina, and for this purpose they had conspired with various tribes settled between Tai’f and Mecca. They were in the process of acquiring arms and planning an invasion.

Historian Kamil Ibne Kaseer writes, when the news of Meccan conquest by Muslims reached Hawazn chief Malik Bin Auf, he gathered all allied tribal chiefs and said: “There is a possibility that Muslims would now decide to attack us, why should we not pre-empt this attack by invading the Muslims”.

All agreed and started their preparations for an attack on Mecca. However two tribes, Banu Ka’ab and Banu Kalaab, refused to side with them.

When this news reached the prophet, without wasting time, he ordered his followers: “Get ready for an expedition to Hawazan”.

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The Battle:

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 In the month of Shawwal of 8th Hijri i.e, January-February 630 AD, the Islamic Page: 297 forces of ten thousand from Medina and two thousand from Mecca marched under prophet‟s command. However for supplies and other needs of battle, the

prophet took two thousand dirham as loan from Abdullah Bin Rabbya of Mecca, this debt was cleared after the battle. Tafseer-e-Namoona-7 Muslims were short of armours. The prophet learned that Saffwan Bin Ummya Pages: 257-258 (a non-believer) had a large number of armours. The prophet wished to borrow them from Saffwan, he did comply but hesitantly. Immediately after morning prayers the prophet arranged his army lines. AliA was the main Standard Bearer, and the rest of the arrangement was the same with which they had entered Mecca.

Prophet remained in the center of the army and the bridle of his horse was in the hand of Abu Suffyan Bin Harris Bin Abdul Muttalib. All his companions, UmerR, Abu BakrR and others rode alongside the prophet. The soldiers of Banu Hashim moved along circling the prophet. The advanced guards comprising of two thousand newly converted Meccan Muslims, were under the command of KhalidR Bin Walyd. When this large army marched forward in full glory, many Muslims felt proud and some remarked arrogantly: “Is there anyone today who can defeat us”?

These arrogant words were not liked by the Almighty Lord. Muslims started thinking that their numbers were the key to success and victory. Allah disliked such a thinking of insolence. He withheld His Help and Muslims tasted defeat and earth shrank for them as the Hawazn chief succeeded in overpowering them for a brief period. Following are the details: As Hawazan chief‟s spies brought him the news of prophet‟s army‟s departure from Mecca, he ordered his forces: “Instead of challenging the enemy in the open, they should be ambushed where the valley is the narrowest. For this our soldiers should hide in caves, behind trees and in passes; waiting for the Muslim army to enter the narrow ravine. Then only should they rain down arrows on the enemy, followed by sword wielding bravos”.

Then he added: “MuhammadS has not faced real warriors so far, who would put him to a memorable defeat”.

Muslim army entered the valley led by AliA, who moved forward followed by young Meccan converts under the command of KhalidR Bin Walyd. This proved to be the weakest link of the army. As the Hawazn archers rained down arrows on them they were terrified and ran in panic. Quran says: “They turned their backs and ran”.

Seeing them running, a large portion of Muslim army also lost heart and took to their heels. Perceiving this the Hawazn army came out in the open, and attacked ferociously.

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Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 On one side AliA with his small force was trying to hold back the enemy, on the Narration by: other the prophet moved to the right side of the valley and called out: Jabir Bin Abdullah “Where are you all fleeing? Come to me I am Muhammad Ibne Abdullah, the prophet of Allah”. In their panic, a great chaos was created, as the valley was narrow and camels and horses could not move easily. The prophet was left with a few Mohajirs, Ansars and Banu Hashim, such as Abbas Bin Abdul Mutlb, Fazl Bin Abbas, Abu Suffyan Bin Harris, Rabbya Bin Harris Bin Abdul Mutlb, Aymen Bin Ubeed, Usama Bin Zayd, Aymen Bin Aymen, all of them formed a protective circle around the prophet. Amongst them Abbas was the tallest and had a big voice; the prophet said to him: “O uncle! Call them”. He shouted to the fleeing army: “O Ansars! O Companions of Al-samra”. They heard and replied: “Here we come, here we come”.

Still the confusion remained as many failed in turning back their camels, as the pass was very narrow. At this point these faithfuls stripped out of their armours and hanging them on the camel necks, jumped down and reached the prophet. A hundred of them succeeded in this effort, and together they attacked the enemy suddenly. According to the narration of BaraR, the prophet too dismounted his mule, and fighting with his sword, uttered these words: “Where are you fleeing? Come to me. I am the rightful prophet; I am the son of Abdul Muttalib”.

He fought so ferociously, that non-other could match his courage, seeing this Muslim soldiers regained their strength and courage.

Islamic On another front AliA fought fearlessly along with his soldiers. The standard- Encyclopedia-1 bearer of Hawazn’s army Abu Jandl attacked him. AliA killed him in one stroke. Page: 241 Jabir Bin AbdullahR narrates, then Hawazn‟s chief rushed towards AliA. Moving towards his camel, AliA struck its knees with his sword. As the camel fell down, an Ansari moved forward and attacked the chief. The enemy chief fell from the camel‟s saddle and died.

AliA then reached the prophet, now the Muslims started fighting with renewed vigor. This was the moment Muslims received Divine help.

Anus Bin MalikR states: “I saw the prophet bending down and taking a handful of dust he prayed and threw it at the enemy. Immediately after that, I saw the enemy started fleeing although none of Muslims attacked them with spears, swords or arrows”.

Jabyr Bin Muti‟mR states, “While the combat was at its peak, I saw a black sheet descending from the skies. It fell between us and the enemies. Seeing closely I saw they were black ants, which soon spread in the valley. I believe it was God‟s help because immediately after that Hawazn army got terrified and started fleeing. Their allies too fled the battle-field, running in different directions.

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Muslims chased the fleeing enemy, who ran in three different directions: 1. Malik Bin Auff fled with his men to Tai’f. 2. Waryd Bin Alsama with his men fled towards Autas. 3. Third group fled towards Batn Hajfa.

In a short time the battle-field was vacant of enemy, but was filled with hundred corpses of enemy, thousands of camels and goats, nearly 200 gram silver and 6000 prisoners of war. Amongst the prisoners, the majority were women and children. The reason being that both Hawazn and Saqeef tribes had brought their women folk and kids along, so that soldiers would refrain from fleeing. But when they were routed, nothing could hold them back.

The prophet left the war spoils in custody of a group of his soldiers, and he him-self left along with his army in pursuit of the fleeing enemy, first towards Autas and then Tai’f.

Ghazwah Autas:

Waryd Bin Alsama with his followers had fled towards Autas. The prophet sent a contingent of soldiers in the command of AmirR, to chase the enemy. Abu Moosa AshariR was also with AmirR. The son of Waryd killed AmirR, then Abu Musa took over the command and flag, he fought until victory. Thus Autas was conquered.

Siege of Tai’f:

Towards Tai’f the prophet sent Abu Suffyan, but he returned without fighting. Then the prophet himself marched forward and laid siege of Tai’f, which was a famous strong fort, and was protected by strong walls and ramparts all around. Soldiers of Banu Hawazn and Saqeef after retreat had taken refuge in this fort. Urwa Bin Masood, the son- in-law of Abu Suffyan, was the chief of Tai’f. He was also an expert in weapon making. He had installed catapults, and other similar weapons, which hurled stones and fire on Muslim soldiers as they tried to scale the fort walls. They being unaware of this kind of warfare, sustained much loss, and had to retreat with injured soldiers, yet they did not lift the siege of the fort.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 During this period, the prophet sent AliA in the suburbs of Tai’f with instructions Page: 329 to demolish all temples of Idol-worship. If any tribe resisted, then he should use force but before doing so the Dawa of Islam must be given. During this expedition AliA was attacked by Banu Khasham tribe. In the fight AliA succeeded in killing the tribal chief Shahab. The whole tribe then fled the battle- field. AliA demolished the temples of Zul-Khala-Sata and Fullus.

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 A delegation of Banu Hawazn who were inclined to accept Islam, visited the Page: 425 prophet. From them the prophet inquired about their chief Malik Bin Auff. They replied: “He is in Tai’f along with the tribe of Bani Saqeef”. The prophet sent a messenger to him, proposing: 383

“If he will accept Islam, his family and his property will be returned to him”. AliA then returned to Tai’f. As the prophet saw him approaching, he raised the slogan “Allah-o-Akbar”. They talked to each other alone for some time. While the siege of Tai’f was on, a Banu Saqeef chief emerged from the fort with some cavalry. The prophet ordered AliA, who attacked and killed him. Seeing this his cavalry rushed back into the fort. After this incidence, none had the courage to come out of the fort. The siege continued for 15 days, many tribes embraced Islam during this period.

When this message reached Malik, he secretly visited the prophet and embraced Islam. As promised the prophet returned to him his family and assets, in addition he gave him 100 camels. Apart from this, he was appointed an administrator of his own tribe and also of other tribes in the surrounding areas of Tai’f, the tribes who had converted to Islam. This kindness of the prophet made him a staunch Muslim. The aim of the siege was nearly accomplished. Many had accepted Islam. Outside the city, other tribes too had accepted Islam, and their temples and idols were razed to ground. The prophet knew that the prevailing conditions will make the people of Tai’f surrender in due time without any blood-shed, so he ordered the lifting of the siege.

War Spoils of Hunyn, Prisoners of War:

After lifting the siege of Tai’f, the prophet without delay reached Jarana, the location where the battle-spoils and prisoners had been kept under guard.

Spirit of Islam Here the prophet found the delegation of Hawazn tribe awaiting him. They had Syed Ameer Ali come to plead for the freedom of their families. Knowing the sensitiveness of Page: 195 Arabs towards their traditions, prophet replied: “You cannot make Arabs withdraw from the fruits of victory. If the Hawazns desire the return of their families, then they will have to relinquish from their goods and possessions”. The delegates agreed. The next day while the Muslims were offering noon (Zohr) prayers (Fajr as related by Tabari), the Hawazn came again and requested: “We request MuhammadS to plead our case amongst the Muslims, to allow us taking our families”. The prophet replied: “I personally support your case, and I hereby return to you mine and that of Banu Abdul Mutlb share immediately”. Seeing this generous gesture of the prophet, his followers acted in accordance. In a few moments, 6000 prisoners were released. This sympathy gained the gratitude and admiration of not only Banu Hawazn but also of Banu Saqeef. However, the delegation at that time left without accepting Islam. Ibne Hisham, Ibne Kaseer and Tabari all relate that soon after they all embraced Islam.

Both Banu Qaseef and Hawazn still lived in Tai’f and converted to Islam after 9th Hijri. However a delegation of a clan of Hawazn, Banu Saad Bin Bakr, visited the prophet while he was 384 still in Jarana. The families of this delegation were also prisoners at Jarana. This clan was that of the prophet‟s governess and nurse Halima SaadiaR and the prophet‟s foster sister SheemaR was also one of the prisoners. As the prophet learnt about this clan, he freed all its prisoners. He bade a respectful farewell to his foster sister with love.

Then came the turn of spoils distribution. All that was held was placed before the prophet. The details are:

1. 24,000 camels. 2. 40,000 goats. 3. 4000 grams of silver.

The prophet divided the spoils in five equal shares, four shares were distributed amongst the believers and the fifth was kept by the prophet as Khums.

Divine Will was that a share should be given to those who fought and also to those who did not. The prophet used the guidance provided by the verse 9:60 and included in the recipients even the Meccans who had not fought, to win over their hearts ( ). To Meccans, prophet even gave a share larger than others.

Al-Quran Charities are meant for the indigent and needy, and those who collect and Surah Tauba-9 distribute them, and those whose hearts are to be won over. ( Verse: 60 Mauallafata-qulubuhum).

The winning of the hearts, thus practiced by the prophet, had been explained as below: Its aim was to cool down the tempers of those who at hearts were adversaries of Islam. Secondly by this act of generosity those who could easily be won over from the infidel camps, were given a chance to become friends and helpers. Thirdly, this kindness was to show special care to the newly converts. The overall aim was thus to wash down the enmity of Islam from the hearts of Meccans.

Spirit of Islam According to the above-mentioned principles the term of Maultafil-Qaloob, Syed Ameer Ali included all those Meccan too, who had embraced Islam after the Muslim Page: 196 conquest of Mecca. Hence the prophet gave the Meccan a larger share, then Mohajirs and Ansars of Medina, from the spoils of Hunynan.

Some were unable to understand this, and believed the prophet had been partial. Besides this, they also had an apprehension that after conquering his city, the prophet may leave Medina for Mecca. As this news reached the prophet, he asked the Ansars to gather so that he may speak to them. Then the prophet addressed them: “O group of Ansars! Is it correct what I have heard? Isn‟t it right that:

(a). You were groping in the dark, Allah showed you the right path through me. (b). You were distressed, Allah bestowed relief and comfort. (c). You were enemies of each other, Allah through me brought you together. (d). Tell me, If I am wrong?

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All who were there unanimously replied: “No doubt it is exactly as you say; both Allah and the prophet have been benevolent”.

Continuing his speech the prophet said: “You could have said that although whatever I was saying was the truth but such of your statements would also have been true: “The whole world defied you, but we verily believed in you”. “You came to us helpless, we helped you”. “You were destitute and homeless, we provided shelter to you”. “You were agitated and troubled we comforted you”.

Then with a pause, the prophet continued in a loving tone: “O group of Ansars, why are you distressed over worldly riches? Will you not like, that others will take back with them camels and goats, whereas you will take Allah‟s Messenger with you back to your homes. By God, I vow in the name of One who has my life in His Power, I will not leave you ever. If the whole world will move in the opposite route of the Ansars, I will always be with the Ansar”.

Those who witnessed and narrated this incident say, hearing all these words of the prophet, the Ansars were moved, they wept and cried, until their faces and beards became wet with those tears.

Then the prophet lifted his arms and prayed: “O Allah! Have mercy on the Ansars, their sons and their grandsons”.

Hearing this prayer the Ansars lost control and in one voice shouted: “O prophet! For us the Messenger of Allah is enough, we are fully satisfied with our shares”.

Then they dispersed contented and happy. After this incident, the prophet went to Mecca to perform Umra. He donned Ahram before entering the Ka’ba. He entered Mecca on 18th Ziqaad 8th Hijri. Before leaving, he made some administrative arrangements, he made A‟tab Bin Asyd, who belonged to Banu Ummya, the administrator of Mecca. As his helper, he left behind Muaz Ibne Jabal, to guide and teach the new converts, the faith of Islam.

Usman Bin Talha was to remain the key-bearer (custodian) of Ka’ba. The administration of Zam Zam Wells, known as Saqaya, which had been with Banu Hashim since long, was given to Abbas Bin Abdul Mutlb (the uncle of the prophet).

Settling these issues, the prophet returned to Jarana, stayed for a night there. The next day all those who had marched to Mecca returned to Medina as conquerors. The prophet and his army, reached Medina either at the end of Ziqaad 8th Hijri or in the start of Zilhajj.

During the prophet‟s absence from Medina (from Ramazan to Ziqaad 8th Hijri) Abu Rahm Kulsoom Bin Hasyn Bin Khalb Al-Ghafary acted as his administrator in Medina.

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Important Events of 8th Hijri: Birth of son Ibrahim: In Zilhajj the prophet returned to Medina, the same month a son was born to him from his wife Mariya Qubtya. He named him Ibrahim and was extremely happy, but his happiness was short lived and Ibrahim died at the age of 18 months. The prophet bowed down his head before Divine Will.

Death of ZainabR:

The same month ZainabR died, the prophet loved and cared for her. KhadijaR, had married her to her nephew Umru Bin Al-aas. She left behind a daughter AmamaR, this girl was brought up under the prophet‟s guidance. FatimaA loved ZainabR and her daughter AmamaR, she was nearly 12 or 13 years at the time of her mothers‟ death.

Siraj-ul-Mubin Before her death FatimaA in her will asked AliA to marry her if he decided to Page: 415 marry again. AliA abided by this will and married Amama, who brought up his children with love and care.

Saraya’s in 8th Hijri: (KhalidR Bin Walyd and Massacre of Banu Khazima):

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 After the conquest of Mecca prophet sent KhalidR Bin Walyd on a preaching Page: 328 mission in the surrounding areas of Mecca. He ordered him to first demolish the idol of Uza goddess, then he should give Dawa of Islam,. The second instruction

was not to fight during this expedition nor to force his opponents in any way.

MuhammadS and the Khalid obeyed, he demolished the idol of Uza goddess in Nakhla the area of course of Islam Banu Shybaan. Then he proceeded on his mission and on his way he saw a clan Page: 136 of Banu Kanana called Banu Hazyma camping at a spring site. They had embraced Islam. During the era of “ignorance” prior to Islam Banu Hazyma had Tareekh-e-Tabari killed Khalid‟s paternal uncle Fakha Bin Mugheera and Abdul Rehman‟s father Page: 406 Auff.

Seeing the tribe, KhalidR could not control his emotions. He asked his companions to camp near the Banu Khazima. Seeing KhalidR Banu Khazima picked up their weapons. But Khalid told them to lay down their weapons, he said: “You have embraced Islam, hence there is no question of a fight, put down your weapons”.

Banu Khazima were thus tricked by KhalidR and felt assured, though their chief warned them: “Don‟t believe Khalid, don‟t lay down your weapons, he will arrest you all”.

But the tribe paid no heed to his advice, they forced him to follow suit and lay down his arms too. As they all dis-armed, Khalid arrested them and tying them all, killed as many as he could. 387

It is written one of the youth pleaded that he should be killed in his tent, he was taken there where he bid farewell to his beloved and was then killed. The girl rushed towards his dead body and fell dead near him.

When this news reached the prophet, he lifted his hands towards heavens and said thrice: “O Allah! I acquit myself in your Presence from this deed of Khalid Bin Walyd”.

Then he questioned those who were the bearers of this news: “Was there no-one amongst you, who could have stopped the killer”?

Then the prophet summoned AliA and giving him considerable amount of money and goods, he said: “Go to Banu Hazima, give them the blood money, also pay them the ransom for the loss of their assets. Try your best to console and comfort them”.

AliA immediately left for Banu Khazima settlements and carried out the prophet‟s order, so much so that he distributed all that he had brought with him. As he gave his report, the prophet again lifted his hands and said: “O Allah! I am absolved of Khalid Bin Walyd‟s act”.

Sarya Ka‟ab Bin U‟mmyr:

In Rabbi-ul-Awal 8th Hijri the prophet sent Ka‟ab Bin U‟mmyr GhafaryR to the valley of Qura in Syria as an emissary of Islam and its Dawa. The delegation consisted of 15 people. All the delegates were killed there except one.

Sarya-tul-Khabt:

In Rajab 8th Hijri, another group was sent to Jahynia under Abu Ubeida Ibne JarrahR. But this group failed to bear the hunger, thirst and hardship of travel, so they returned back.

Sarya Abu Qatada:

Tareekh-e-Tabari-1 In Sha’aban 8th Hijri, an expedition under Abu QatadaR was sent towards Bani Page: 378 Qaiys. The tribal chief of this tribe was preparing to attack Medina by inciting the people against the prophet. Qatada succeeded in killing the chief of Banu Qaiys and returned with considerable spoils.

Zaat-ul-Salasil expedition:

Al-Quran (God swears) by the snorting charges, and those striking sparks of fire (by Surah Aadiyat-100 dashing their hoofs), and those raiding at dawn, raising clouds of dust, and Verses: 1 to 5 penetrating deep (into the armies of the foe) enmasse. 388

Tafseer-e-Namuna15 Ans and Qatada have written that Surah Al-Aadiyat was revealed in Medina Page: 421 after the fight of Zaat-ul-Salasil. In the 8th Hijri, the prophet received information that in the lands of Yalys near the valley of “Alqura”, at the chain of

Tareekh-e-Tibri-1 wells and springs, the Christians of Banu Qaza’a and Banu Qaiyn along with the Page: 276 Bedouin tribes of that area, have taken an oath, that they will not rest until they had not killed Muhammad and all his companions and followers. The news was

MuhammadS and the that they had gathered near Zaat-ul-Salasil in thousands. course of Islam Banu Qaza’a was the maternal tribe of Umru Bin Al-Aas. He was summoned by Page: 125 the prophet and a large army was given in his command. He was to march (Summay from all towards the Al-Qura valley, offer peace and re-conciliation, then Dawa of Islam three). was to be given.

Umru reached near that location, but hesitated in moving forward, as he was afraid of the large enemy forces, said to be more then 10,000. Instead he camped and sent a messenger to the prophet requesting reinforcement. The prophet sent a reinforcement of Ansars and Mohajir’s, Umer FarooqR, Abu BakrR and Abu A‟bida ibne Jarrah were also amongst this force. Yet the Muslim army could not muster courage to face the enemy and they returned unsuccessful.

At last a large army of Ansars and Mohajirs was sent under the command of AliR. He moved swiftly travelling in the night and resting in day, he surprised the enemy one early morning, and surrounded them. First he offered them the invitation of Islam, when they refused, he suddenly attacked them. Their ranks were routed, many were killed, the rest fled the battle-field. Women and children were taken as prisoners, along with spoils of war. Then AliA returned with prisoners and the spoils. They were still on their way back, when the Surah Al-Adiyat was revealed to the prophet, who recited this Surah in the morning prayers. After the prayers, his companions said: “O prophet! We have not heard these verses before”.

The prophet replied: “Congratulations, Ali has won and enemy is defeated, Angel Gabriel brought these verses to me at night”.

A few days after this incident AliA arrived, victoriously entering Medina, and being profusely congratulated by the prophet.

Surah Tehreem and the Wives of the Holy Prophet:

Al-Quran O prophet, why do you prohibit (yourself) what God has made lawful to you in Surah Tehreem-66 order to please your wives? God is oft-forgiving most merciful. Verses: 1 to 5 God has indeed made lawful for you the dissolution of your oaths (in such cases), and God is your Lord. He is all-knowing and wise. When the prophet confided a matter to one of his wives, and she divulged it to others, and God apprised the prophet thereof. He made known a part of it to her and avoided the other part. When he told her about it, she said: “Who told you this”? He said: “The all knowing, the all wise told me”. If both of you two (women) turn to God in repentance (it would be better),

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surely your hearts are so inclined. But if you two back up each other against him, then verily it is God who is his protector and angel Gabriel and the (most) virtuous among the believers, and (besides them) the angels will back him up. If the prophet divorces you, haply his Lord will give him wives better than you in exchange, submissive, faithful, obedient, repentant, observant of prayer and fasting, (both) widows and virgins.

Scholars and elucidators have written much about these five verses, but I think the verses are quite simple and unambiguous, and can easily be comprehended. However there are three questions the answers of which help a great deal in understanding them.

1. What was the background of these verses and when were they revealed? 2. Who were these wives, who are addressed directly and asked to repent? 3. Why were the wives reprimanded in such strict tones?

The answers are: Surah Tehreem was revealed during the first few months of 9th Hijri. Narrators state that prophet‟s son Ibrahim was born in 8th Hijri, these verses were revealed after his birth. In the month of Ramazan precisely on the 10th Ramazan 8th Hijri, the prophet left for Mecca and returned back to Medina in the last dates of Zilhajj. During this period Mecca was conquered. Ghazwahs Hunyn, Otas and Tai’f were fought and won. The prophet spent the rest of the period in organizing the administrative system and destroying the idols in the surroundings of Mecca. Thus the prophet remained away from his home for a period of 4 months. In Medina, there were a large number of hypocrites (about 400) who took advantage of his absence and their conspiracies against the prophet and Islam increased.

As far as his home was concerned, like any other home, husband‟s absence from his home for four long months resulted in some changes in the household routines in his absence. These changes may not have been to the liking of the prophet.

We can easily understand what problems the prophet had to face. Each of his wife desired him to spend more of his time with her. All this was but natural. However God put them under a trial, as a son was born to Mariya QubtyaR, the prophet because of his son spent more time with MariyaR. An additional factor cropped up as during those days one of his wives Zainab Bine HajshR got good quality honey. As the prophet was fond of honey, this prolonged his stay with ZainabR too.

Tefheem-ul-Quran-6 Both of these events gave birth to jealousy among his wives. It is related in Page: 23 Bukhari Shareef with reference to AnusR that UmerR said: “The wives of the prophet, with their jealousy and rivalry put the prophet in great distress, which was further aggravated when one of his wives broke his trust and revealed his secret to others. The prophet then stopped, meeting any of his wives and started spending his time alone. This continued for a month.

These were the prevailing conditions when the Surah Tehreem was revealed. His Lord intervened and warned his wives, to reform their ways. His warning was not for that time only, but became part of the holy Quran for all times to come.

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Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Abdullah Ibne AbbasR narrates that: Page: 23 “I had intended to inquire from UmerR the names of those wives of prophet who were warned in the Surah and asked to repent in these words “Both of you should repent, as you have strayed from the right path”. Once I got the chance and asked UmerR, on which he told me those were “AyeshaR and HafsaR”.

Now the question arises if these were the only reasons why such strict warning was given?

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 About this Maulana Shibly presumes; The hypocrites could be behind the Page: 309 planning, who always tried their utmost to breed discord amongst the family members and relatives of the prophet. (The attitude of theirs can easily be seen during Ghazwah Tabuk, and their hypocratic behavior persisted even after the death of the prophet).

Besides this, there is no other apparent reason why the hypocrites had planned to take advantage of this rivalry between the wives of the prophet and create distrust to such an extent that the planning of discontinuation of prophet‟s progeny and his line of descent, could become a part of it. But the Lord of the prophet the All Knowing, apprised him before hand so that prior to his taking some serious action, his wives were reprimanded and warned that:

“If they would not change and reform their attitudes, and not repent before their Lord, then He Will help His prophet. Not only the Almighty Lord will help, but also the virtuous believers and the angels will help. If the prophet decided to divorce his wives then the Lord will give him better wives”.

Seerat-un-Nabi-1 The need of this discussion arises only to fill the requirement of an ethical Page: 311 debate, otherwise from a believer‟s point of view this was totally unrequired. The manner of narration of this incident specially in Tabari, with lengthy details, are such which one fails to attach even with an ordinary person of respect. But they were attached to the exalted personality of the prophet which in itself is a grave sin for a believer.

Ghazwah Tabuk: 9th Hijri, month of Rajab (October 630 AD):

Causes of Battle: In 8th Hijri, in the battle of Mauta, the three thousand strong Muslim army fought ferociously and managed to exercise a successful tactical retreat against a 100,000 strong army of Roman and Ghusany soldiers. This incidence bred a feeling amongst the Romans, Ghusanys and other tribes settled from the borders of Najd to Medina, that the Muslims did have some invisible power as their helper.

Many Arab tribes who were previously subject of Roman Empire, decided to ally with the State of Medina and to accept Islam instead of Christianity. Thus thousands preferred Islam over Christianity. The prominent tribes among them were Bani Sulem, Ashja, Ghutfan, Zabyan, and Bani 391

Faraza. It was at this juncture that the Roman commander of the Arab allied forces, Farwa-bin- Aljazami also embraced Islam. This shook the Roman government and the Caesar ordered his arrest. When he was brought before the Emperor, he was given a choice of either accepting death or Islam. The brave man chose death and was executed in the presence of Caesar.

This incident of his rebellious commander infuriated the Emperor. It was the time when he had just returned to Rome after a great victory over Persians. The Romans were filled with pride. Caesar in the joy of victory totally forgot that two years ago he had received with full honor the message of the prophet, and had answered politely. As a victorious ruler of a great empire, he now thought the whole world to be his slave. The Roman failure at Mauta was an injury to his pride, which had totally changed his feelings. Now he regarded Islam and prophet MuhammadS as his greatest enemy, and had therefore gathered a large army for their annihilation.

However prior to his attack, Allah informed His Messenger of Caesar‟s intentions. The prophet was ordained to attack the Byzantine (Roman) State, so as to pre-empt the Roman attack. When Muslims learnt about this command they were worried.

The situation in Medina was such that there had been a drought in Hijaz and Najd. The harvest of dates was effected badly and many beasts of burden had died in large numbers. The villagers were not prepared to leave their homes in such circumstances. Moreover many Muslims were afraid of the Byzantinian army and it‟s power. They wanted to avoid fighting. This situation brought strict admonition from their Lord. Angel Gabriel came with the revelation.

Al-Quran What has happened to you O believers, that when you are asked to set out in the Surah Tauba-9 cause of God, your feet begin to drag? Do you find the life of the world so Verse: 38-39 pleasing that you forget the life to come? Yet the profit of the life of this world is but meager as compared to the life to come. Unless you go out (to strive), God will inflict grievous punishment on you, and bring other people in your place, and you will not be able to harm Him in the least, for God has power over all things.

When prophet‟s companions heard these verses from him, they trembled in fear of their Lord‟s Wrath. They rushed to join those who had already joined the prophet for jihad. Thousands of volunteers followed them from the suburbs of Medina. Now the question of obtaining animals for transport and arranging for cash for the army expenses, faced the prophet.

The cash, which the prophet had in hand was partly from Khums and partly from state funds (Bait-ul-Maal had not been established until then). Much more funds were reuqired for which prophet appealed. Then donations started pouring in, Abu BakrR brought all of his assets, UsmanR promised to take up all expenses of a group of soldiers, others brought cash and many women donated their jewelry. Thus a handsome amount was accumulated which was enough to bear the expenses of 30,000 Mujahidin.

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The truthfuls, the ordinary believers and the hypocrites:

The above verses of Surah Tauba exhorting Muslims to take part in Ghazwah Tabuk, were actually a test for the followers of prophet MuhammadS. As a consequence of this. test, three categories became clearly visible among the followers of prophet MuhammadS. They were:

(i). The Truthfuls. (ii). The ordinary believers. (iii). The Hypocrites.

(i) The Truthfuls: To this group belonged those who readily without any hesitation obeyed whatever the prophet said. They are called Saadiqeen by Quran.

Al-Quran O believers, do not stray from the path of God and be with those who are Surah Tauba-9 truthful (Saadiqeen). Verses: 119

(ii) The Ordinary Believers: those were the Muslims addressed repeatedly in the Surah. Though they had believed the prophet and accepted Islam, yet they needed frequent reminders.

(iii) The Hypocrites: They were the hidden enemies of Islam. Outwardly they had embraced the faith, but they had not pledged their hearts to it. They were intent upon damaging the very roots of Islam through their conspiracies. Till 9th Hijri, the prophet was tolerating them but when they showed their real face prior to Ghazwah Tabuk, then the prophet received Divine Command that the soft attitude towards them should be followed no more. The verses revealed of Surah Tauba from 41-110 are self-explanatory in this respect. Following this guidance from the Lord, the prophet had the house of Swaylem put on fire before he proceeded on the expedition of Tabuk, and after returning from Tabuk he had the Mosque of Darrar demolished. Details are as under:

House of Swaylem:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 Swaylem was a Jew who apparently embraced Islam. His home in Medina was Page: 173 the centre of all conspiracies of hypocrites. Here they gathered to hatch their plans to harm the Muslims and damage Islam.

They hatched schemes of breeding distrust and doubts amongst the Muslims about their faith and even conspired the assassination of the prophet.

During the preparations of Ghazwah Tabuk, they gathered in Swaylem‟s house to think out ways and means of stopping the Muslims from joining the expedition. The prophet was ordered by Allah to act against these hypocrites, so he ordered the burning down of Swaylem‟s house. This demolition of their headquarter scattered the hypocrites. 393

Mosque of Darar:

Al-Quran There are those who built a mosque (based on) opposition and disbelief, and to Surah Tauba-9 cause rifts among the faithful, and to serve as an outpost for those who have Verse: 107 warred against God and His prophet before this. Yet they will surely swear, “We

had only meant well”. But God is witness that they are liars.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 Scholars state that before the prophet migrated to Medina there was a person Page: 232 named Abu A‟amir of Khizrij tribe, who became a Christian priest and was regarded as a religious scholar. His knowledge and priesthood was acknowledged by the ignorant Bedouins Arab tribes, who were impressed by him and respected him.

When the prophet migrated to Medina, Abu A‟amir‟s fame and respect was dented, this infuriated him and jealousy bred in his heart. His intelligence and wisdom did not help him in comprehending the reality and faith of Islam and envy made him an enemy of the prophet. So he conspired with the non-believers and infidels. When the infidels were defeated in Ghazwah Badr, he fled to Mecca. He joined the Meccan army in the Ghazwah Uhad. The many ditches and pits dug by the Meccan army in the battle-field of Uhad were dug on his strategy. It was one of these pits in which the prophet fell and injured himself. He played a significant role in gathering a large army during Ghazwah Ahzab. After the war of Hunyn he reached Rome and constantly spoke against the Muslims to the Caesar. He succeeded when Caesar at last decided to attack Medina. He had accomplices in Medina i.e, the hypocrites. They were his spies who secretely maintained a constant flow of information from Medina. He then asked them to build a mosque, which would provide them a facility to plan their dirty schemes under the cover of religion. Here their congregations hatched conspiracies, and formed a secrete centre of opposition. For the construction of the mosque the permission of the prophet was needed. The reason they gave was that Quba and Nabvi mosques were situated at a great distance, so those Muslims who were old, feeble and sick were facing difficulties in joining the congregations. Hence the need of a mosque situated in between the said two mosques would solve their problem. The prophet despite having knowledge of their real aim, gave permission, perhaps as a respite to let the conspiracy reveal itself. Allah‟s will had him over-look for some time. Allah also informed the prophet that these hypocrites were not ready to join Tabuk expedition and the Muslim forces. They will use deception and will stay behind. They believed that Muslims will suffer a great defeat. This will provide them a chance to capture Medina, and crown Abdullah Bin Ubaii‟, chief of hypocrites, as their king.

The Departure of Muslim Army from Medina:

All preparations were finalized and the time of departure finally arrived. Uptill now no one had any idea as to whom the prophet was going to assign the administrative charge of Medina. It was most essential as all the families along with the old, feeble and sick were to stay behind in Medina.

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Allah ordained and the prophet summoned AliA and said: “You have to stay in Medina, take charge of Medina and ensure safety and security of this city”.

One can imagine how the brave warrior of Uhad, Ahzab and Khybar would have felt (as he was being denied participation in the battle). AliA however was a faithful follower of the prophet, he obeyed and setting aside his battle-gear stayed back in Medina.

The hypocrites were worried at this development, as like the infidels the hypocrites were very afraid of AliA. They now knew he will be the greatest obstacle in their secret plans. They were now confused and had to work on a new strategy. In the mean time the Muslim army marched towards that spot where the citizens were to bid them farewell. The hypocrites too joined the army and reached that spot. Then they reduced their speed as the army moved forward and when their distance increased they returned back to Medina. Here they visited AliA and spoke to him tauntingly: “Look what the prophet has done to you today. He has left you back like the women and children”.

They also tried to convey to him that he could not order them anything. AliA however had no doubt on the intentions of the prophet, yet when he heard the hypocrites, he got furious. He mounted his horse and taking the hypocrites along rode towards the Muslim army. As he reached the army, he jumped from the horse in the presence of the prophet and related the whole incident.

The prophet smiled and embraced AliA, and looking towards those hypocrites, who had come with AliA, he said: “Ali! You are to me, like Aaron was to Moses”.

These few words were enough to make the hypocrites understand what the prophet meant as they had converted to Islam from Jewish faith. These words made them understand that the prophet was leaving Ali in Medina just like MosesA left behind AaronA, when he went away for 40 nights, and then all those who did not obey AaronA but obeyed Samri, were executed. They very well remembered the incidence when Samri had made the golden Calf for Bani Israel in the absence of MosesA and in the presence of AaronA. If the hypocrites disobeyed Ali, then there was a great possibility that they all will be executed in the same manner as the Bani Israel were executed for worshipping the Calf and disobeying AaronA.

Till this incident the hypocrites had not felt fear of their lives while living in Medina, but this one sentence of the prophet made them realize that the prophet could order their execution anytime due to their disobedience to AliA. This was the reason that they restrained from creating any disturbance in the city, in the absence of the prophet.

Muslim Army v/s Caesar Heraclius:

In the month of Rajab 9th Hijri, the Muslim army of 30,000 warriors reached Tabuk located between Medina and Syria. There they learnt that Caesar had called back all his troops from the

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Syrian border. This situation was a pleasant surprise for Muslims. The prophet and the whole Muslim army thanked their Lord.

Apart from other reasons, one major reason was a complete breakdown of espionage between Medina and Rome. Since all news from Medina travelled to Syria through the hypocrites, they were in such a depressed and frightened state that they did not have courage to inform the Caesar about the Muslim Army. When Caesar came to know about the arrival of the Muslim army on the Syrian borders, he was still not fully prepared for the battle, hence the only option he had was to call back his soldiers from the borders.

Victory of Tabuk and its benefits:

Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 This act of the Caesar of avoiding the fight, gave a moral boost to the Muslims. Page: 171 The prophet was contented with the end result of the expedition and was happy with the political and military benefits. He did not order his army to enter Syria, but stayed for 20 days at Tabuk, and held contacts with all those small chiefdoms between Medina and Rome, which were under the influence of the Romans. These contacts resulted in making them allied to Islam and pay taxes to Medina. . This policy succeeded in making taxpayer states of Dumat-ul-Jandl ruled by the Christian ruler Akydr Bin Abdul Mulk Kundy, Yuhanna-bin-Rau‟ba (Christian) ruler of Aila, and other Christian rulers like Maqna, Jarba, and Azrah. All accepted the sovereignty of Islamic State.

The result of this was the extension of Islamic State influence upto the borders of Roman Empire. Many of those Arab tribes which the Romans have been using against Muslims, now became the allies of the Muslims. It also helped the Islamic State to strengthen its position amongst the Arabs, prior to entering an era of conflict with the Roman Empire.

This victory gained without using a single weapon, broke the backbone of the hypocrites power. Those who were awaiting the return to the days of ignorance after the downfall of the Muslims, now had to accept and seek shelter from Islam.

Demolition of Darar Mosque:

Tafseer-e-Namuna Upon return from Tabuk in the month of Ramazan of 9th Hijri (December 630 Pages: 116-117 AD), before the prophet reached Medina a group of hypocrites came to welcome him and requested him for opening ceremony of their mosque. They said: “Please lead the congregation in our mosque, and pray to Allah for our well-fare and well-being”.

Precisely at the same moment, Angel GabrielA arrived with the verses 108 to 110 of Surah Tauba.Through it the prophet was commanded to unmask the hypocrites in public and to announce their evil acts and deeds. Along with this he was ordered to demolish the mosque, by burning it, and 396 to make that site a garbage dump. The prophet carried out the Divine Will. Thus the conspiracies of the hypocrites could no more remain hidden and they were openly accused and reprimanded.

After the demolition of this mosque, the prophet entered Medina, and stayed in Medina for the rest of this year (9th Hijri) i.e, approximately three months. During this time he received delegations from different tribes.

The Prophet and his Companions blessed:

Al-Quran God was kind to the prophet, the emigrants (Mohajirin), and Ansar the helpers Surah Tauba-9 of the faithful who followed him in the hour of distress. When a section of them Verse: 117 was about to lose courage, He turned to them in His mercy for He is compassionate and kind.

This verse appreciates those who under-took the journey of Tabuk, which was most distressful and difficult because of paucity of food and water and excessively hot weather. Under those conditions, some had started losing courage, who were consoled by the Lord.

Repentance of those who stayed behind:

Three persons Kaab Bin Malik, Marara Bin Raby and Bilal Bin Ummya had stayed behind due to their laziness and did not accompany Tabuk expedition. But after the departure of the prophet, they regretted their act. When the prophet returned, they met him and apologized. But the prophet not only did not speak to them himself but also asked others not to talk to them. All the three were not hypocrites but were Muslims, and were put under test before their repentance could be accepted by the Lord.

It is stated their social boycott continued for 50 days, not a single Muslim spoke to them. They turned towards their Lord again and again, prayed and repented profusely. Allah then accepted their apologies and the below mentioned verse was revealed.

Al-Quran And to the three also (He turned in mercy) whose case was left undecided. Even Surah Tauba-9 the earth will all it‟s expanse became narrow for them, their lives were confined, Verse: 118 and they came to realize that there was no refuge for them except in God. So He softened towards them that they may repent; for God surely accepts repentance and is merciful.

The year of Delegations ( ):

The rest of the 9th Hijri is called the year of delegations which came from all over Arabia, to meet the prophet.

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Delegation of Tai‟f:

Spirit of Islam Soon after prophet‟s arrival in Medina, many Arab tribes who had settled in its Syed Ameer Ali surroundings, started pouring in the city. The first to arrive was a delegation Page: 202 from Tai’f. They were the same people who had insulted the prophet prior to Hijrat (migration), and had turned him out of the city, stoning him and injuring him. The prophet had laid siege of their city after the conquest of Mecca and that of Hunyn.

Now they arrived to beg forgiveness, and to enter Islam. But they were not prepard to leave their idols, and asked that they will accept Islam if their idols were not damaged. They also wanted exemption from the daily prayers of five times. The prophet refused to accept these conditions. Then willingly or unwillingly, they embraced Islam and their idols were demolished.

Delegation of Banu Tamym (A Quraiysh Tribe):

Al-Quran (O Muhammad), many of those who call you from outside (your) apartments are Surah Hujrat-49 not considerate. If they had waited for you to come out, it would have been Verses: 4-5 better for them. But God is forgiving and kind.

It is narrated that a delegation comprising of Banu Tamym’s nobles came to prophet. They had inclinations towards Islam but the arrogance and pride of being Arabs still existed in them. The prophet was at home when they entered the Mosque (Nabvi). When they did not find the prophet there, instead of waiting for his arrival, they started shouting from outside the rooms of prophet‟s wives: “O Muhammad! Come out”.

Allah disliked this lack of respect showed by them and the above mentioned verses were then revealed, which laid down the rules for all delegations, which came and would come in future to meet the prophet.

Although these people continued shouting which must have annoyed the prophet but he did not show any displeasure even when the haughty Arabs proudly announced: “O Muhammad! We have come to contest with you for glory”.

Contesting for Glory:

Among the Arabs two kinds of battles were fought since centuries. One with weapons and the other with words. Apart from the law of blood for blood, all other conflicts were settled through this battle of words. Orators and poets from both contesting parties, arrogantly boasted about their glory. The Mediator hearing this debate would finally give his verdict as to who were the most eloquent and fluent in their rhetoric.

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Banu Tamym had brought their great Orator Atarad Bin Hajab, a famous Arab speaker, and their famous poet Zabrqan Bin Badr, along with their nobles.

The prophet gave permission to Muslim Orator Thabit Bin Qys and poet Hussaan Bin Thaabit to contest with Banu Tamym. The battle was fought and the arbitrator Iqra-bin-Aa‟bis (from Banu Tamym) announced Muslims as winners. Banu Tamym then accepted his decision and embraced Islam.

Now the question of leadership arose in the tribe. Some favored Iqra Bin Aa‟bis, others favoured Qa‟qa‟. A heated debate ensued. Emotions rose so high that the voice of the prophet could not be heard in the uproar. It appeared they had forgotten the dignity of the prophet, then the Divine Command arrived.

O you who believe, do not raise your voices above the voice of the prophet, and Al-Quran do not speak loudly to him as you do with one another; lest your deeds are Surah Hujrat-49 nullified. Verse: 2 (For detailed interpretation, Sahiy Bukhari, volume-6, Page: 172, Tafseer of Surah Hujrat may be consulted.

Delegation of Banu Saad:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Banu Saa‟d sent Damam Bin Sa‟lba‟ as their representative towards the prophet. Page: 27 He asked some questions from the prophet:

“Swear by your Allah, that He has sent you as a prophet for humanity”. The prophet replied: “Yes”.

Then he asked if these were necessary: Prayers, Fasting, Pilgrimage (Hajj) and Zakaat (Tax). The prophet repeatedly replied in affirmative. When Damam had heard all the answers, he said: “On my return, I will repeat word to word to my people what I have heard from you, O Prophet”.

He kept his pledge, after repeating the sayings of the prophet he said to his people: “Laat and Uzaa (our gods) have no reality, as they can neither benefit nor damage. I have faith in MuhammadS and his Allah, I leave you to decide for yourself”.

The tribe had heard his speech in total amazement, and his oration was so impressive, that before evening, the whole tribe, men, women, children, slaves and maids embraced Islam.

Banu Hars Bin Ka‟ab (Najran Tribe):

Banu Hars was a clan of Najran tribe. KhalidR Bin Walyd was sent towards them for the Dawa of Islam. They sent their delegation which included Qys Bin Al-hasyn and Yazyd Bin Abdul 399

Madaan to the prophet and spoke about embracing Islam. Thus the whole clan accepted Islam, the prophet made Qays their leader.

Banu Muzyna and its Poet (Quraiysh Tribe):

Banu Muzyna was a famous clan of Quraiysh. Their standard bearer on the occasion of conquest of Mecca was Nauman Bin Maqrn. This clan had accepted Islam, in the initial days of the prophet‟s preachings, but the famous poet of the clan Kuab Bin Zubyr did not embrace Islam and incited the Quraiysh non-believers against Islam. He joined the worst enemies of the prophet and they all conspired against Islam. After the Muslim conquest of Mecca he went under-ground. The prophet declared his death sentence, but he was not found till 9th Hijri. His brother however had accepted Islam and on his advice he too became a Muslim. He visited the prophet in disguise and said: “O prophet! If I make Kaab embrace Islam, and then bring him in your presence, will you forgive him”?

The prophet replied: “Yes”.

As soon as these words were uttered, he disclosed his identity, he said: “O prophet of Allah! I am Kaab bin Zubyr”.

The prophet‟s companions on hearing his name, requested the prophet‟s permission to kill him. The prophet however said: “Stop, I have announced his pardon”.

Then Kaab with the prophet‟s permission, recited an Ode in praise for the prophet, this laudatory poem is regarded a masterpiece of Arabic literature. Due to its opening words, it is called “Ode Bant Saa‟d”.

Spirit of Islam The poet using various metaphors relates a story of a lover who is wandering Syed Ameer Ali about in grief, as his beloved Saa‟d, had left him. He is searching her far and Page: 205 wide. Then the allegory changes, deviating from the initial verses, it now lauds the prophet. The Ode is a superb combination of sound, harmony, music and melody, which is rare and unique. None of the poets could reach such heights in Arabic language after this Ode.

When Kaab reached the heights of his verses of praising, the prophet gave him his garment. This garment was sold by Kaab‟s family for 40,000 Dirham to Ameer Mauviya. It remained in the custody of Banu Ummya, and then was taken over by Banu Abbas, from where it became the property of the Ottoman Empire.

Banu Fazara:

This was the most ferocious and powerful Arab tribe. Aynya Bin Hassan belonged to this tribe. In Ramazan of 9th Hijri, its delegation visited the prophet and accepted Islam, when they returned to their tribesmen they all embraced Islam.

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Banu Asad:

This tribe was an ally of the Quraiysh in many battles. Talha Bin Khalid Asady who was a claimant of prophet-hood during the reign of Abu BakrR, belonged to this very tribe. In 9th Hijri the whole tribe accepted Islam, and sent a messenger towards the prophet to boast about their act of accepting Islam, though the prophet had not sent any Dawa towards their tribe. Despite the fact that the prophet had ignored them, they boasted that they became Muslims as a favor to him. This arrogance brought Divine revelation cautioning them:

Al-Quran The Arabs of the desert say: “We believe”. (O Muhammad), tell them: “You do Surah Hujrat-49 not believe”. They should better say: “We submit”, because „belief‟ has not yet Verse: 14 penetrated their hearts.

Tafheem-ul-Quran-5 Commentators have spoken about many other tribes, which had a similar Page: 100 mindset, for example: Muzyna, Jahnya, Aslam, Asshajah, Ghaffar and Asad.

Banu A‟amir Bin Sa‟sa‟:

The tribe of Banu Aamir was a branch of the famous Arab tribe Qys Aylaan. This tribe had three chiefs, A‟amir Bin Tufail, Arbd Bin Qys and Jabbar Bin Salma. All these three chiefs came to Medina to embrace Islam. However only Jabbar Bin Salma had righteous intention, whereas the other two came with evil intentions. Aamir had planned, that he will converse with the prophet, and when they will be engrossed, Arbd would kill the prophet. However the conversation continued, and Arbd sat paralyzed, overawed by the dignity and grandeur of prophet‟s personality. As a result both returned without accepting Islam. After their departure the prophet prayed to his Lord:

“O Allah! Protect me from their wickedness”. Soon Aamir died of Cholera.

Jabbar had stayed in Medina with Kaab Bin Malik, a companion of the prophet. After the other two returned back, Jabbar met the prophet along with his 13 followers and all embraced Islam whole-heartedly. Soon his whole tribe became Muslim.

Delegation of Banu Hamyr:

The rulers of small Humyr states too sent their representatives declaring that they too had accepted Islam. During the same period delegations of Banu Bahyra and Banu Baka also visited the prophet.

Delegation of Najran:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Najran was situated in south-west of Medina at a distance of about seven days Pages: 32 to 34 travel towards Yemen. Christians were the settlers in this region. They had a Summary. large church built here, which they called their Ka’ba. Many great Christian

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scholars and leaders resided in this area. They had the title of Syed and Aaqib. This was the most important religious centre of the Arab Christians. They were peace-loving people.

The prophet wrote a letter to them giving the Dawa of Islam. In reply, the custodian of their Ka’ba along with 60 scholars came to Medina. The prophet got tents erected for them near the mosque. Soon after their arrival prayer time arrived for them. They prayed in the courtyard of the mosque facing towards Bait-ul-Maqdas, Abu Harris was their Lord Bishop, who was a respected learned scholar. This delegation asked many questions of the prophet, who answered in accordance with the Quranic verses revealed in response to the questions asked. These answers are preserved for all times in Surah Al-i-Imran-3 verses 31-61. Christians could not refute his answers, but they were not still ready to accept Islam. Given below are these verses. From 31 to 34, the verses pertain to the questions about the continuity of religion of God and sending of prophets from AdamA to JesusA and after JesusA:

Al-Quran 31: Say (O Muhammad): “If you love Allah. Then follow me; Allah will love Surah Al-i-Imran-3 you and forgive you your sins, verily, Allah is forgiving. Merciful”. Verses 31-37 32: Say (O Muhammad): “Obey Allah and the messenger”. But if they turn back, then verily Allah does not love the disbelievers. 33: Verily, Allah chose Adam and Nuh and the descendents of Ibrahim and the descendents of Imran above (all His) creatures. 34: Offspring, one from the other; and Allah is hearing, knowing.

From 35 to 37, the verses pertain to the birth of Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus ChristA: 35: When (Hannah) the wife of Imran said: “My Lord! Verily I have vowed to you that which is in my womb, to be (exclusively) dedicated (to Your service), therefore accept (it) from me; verily You are the hearer, the knower”. 36: And when she had given birth to her (Mary), she said: “My Lord! I have delivered a female”. And Allah knew better what she had delivered; the male is not as the female. “And I have named her Maryam, and verily I seek refuge for her and for her offspring with You from the accursed (outcast) Shaytan”. 37: So her Lord accepted her with gracious acceptance, and made her grow up with a graceful growth, and He made Zakariyya take care of her. Whenever Zakariyya came to see her in the sanctuary, he found her provided with sustenance. He said: “O Maryam! From where this comes to you”? She said: “It is from Allah. Verily Allah provides for whomsoever He likes without measure”.

From 38 to 41, the verses pertain to the birth of prophet Yahya (John the Baptist): 38: Then Zakariyya prayed to his Lord; he said: “O Lord! Bestow on me a goodly offspring from You; verily, You are the hearer of prayer”. 39: Then the angels said to him while he stood paying in the sanctuary: “Verily Allah gives you glad tidings of (a son whose name is) Yahya (who comes) to confirm a word from Allah, (and he is) noble, chaste and a prophet from among 402 the righteous”. 40: He said: “My Lord! How can I have a son when indeed my age has overtaken me, while my wife is barren”? He (the Lord) said: “Even so, Allah does whatsoever He likes”.

41: “He said: “My Lord! Appoint a sign for me”. He (the Lord) said: “The sign for you shall be that you will not speak to men for three days accept by signs; and remember your Lord much and glorify Him in the evening and morning”.

From 42 to 51, the verses pertain to the birth of prophet „Isa (Jesus ChristA): 42: And (recall, O Muhammad) when the angels said: “O Maryam! Verily, Allah has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above (all) the women of the world. 43: O Maryam be devout to your Lord, prostrate yourself, and bow with those who bow (in prayer)”. 44: This is of the news of the (things) unseen which We reveal to you (O Muhammad); (for) you were not with them when they cast lots with their pens as to who (of them) should take care of Maryam; nor were you with them when they disputed (among themselves). 45: (Recall, O Muhammad) when the angels said: O Maryam! Verily, Allah gives you glad tidings of a word from Him, whose name shall be Masih, „Isa, son of Maryam, illustrious in this world and the hereafter, and (he shall be) one of those brought near (to Allah). 46: And he shall speak to the people when in cradle and when in the prime of his life; and (he shall be) of the righteous‟. 47: She said: “My Lord! How can I have a son when no man has touched me”? He (the Lord) said: “Even so Allah creates whatsoever He wills; when He decrees a thing He only say to it: Be! And it is”. 48: And He will teach him the book and wisdom, and the Torah and the Bible. 49: And (will appoint him) a messenger to the children of Israil (to whom he will declare): “Verily I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, verily I will make for you out of clay the likeness of a bird, and I will breathe into it, and it shall become a flying bird by Allah‟s permission; and I shall heal the blind and the leper and will raise the dead by Allah‟s permission; and I will declare to you what you eat and what you store up in your houses. Verily, in this will be a sign for you if you are (indeed) believers. 50: And (I come) confirming that which was before me of the Torah, and to allow you some of that which was forbidden to you. And I come to you with a sign from your Lord, so be fearful of Allah and obey me.

51: Verily Allah is my Lord and your Lord; therefore worship (only) Him. This is the right path.

From 52 to 53, verses pertain to the disciples of Jesus ChristA: 52: And when Isa perceived their disbelief, he said: “Who will be my helpers unto Allah”? The disciples said: “We will be Allah‟s helpers. We believe in 403

Allah, and bear witness that we are Muslims”.

53: (And they prayed): “Our Lord! we believe in that which You have sent down and we follow the messenger (Isa); record us then with those who bear witness (to him)”.

From 54 to 58, the verses pertain to the plotting of Jews for getting rid of Jesus and Almighty Lord‟s declaration that Jesus was not harmed. He was raised by God, up in the heavens, and a deception was created for his enemies: 54: And they (the disbelieving Jews) plotted, and Allah (also) planned, and Allah is the best of planners. 55: (And remember O Muhammad) when Allah said: “O Isa! Verily, I will take you away and raise you up to Me and purify you of those who disbelieve, and set those who follow you (victorious) above those who disbelieve until the day of resurrection. Then unto Me you shall all return, and I will judge between you in what you used to differ. 56: And as for those who disbelieve, I will chastise them with a severe chastisement in the world and the hereafter, and they shall have no helpers”. 57: And as for those who believe and do good deeds, He will pay them their recompense in full, and Allah does not love the unjust. 58: This (which) We recite to you are signs and wise reminder. From 59 to 60, the verses pertain to God‟s declaration that Jesus was not son of God: 59: Verily, the likeness of Isa with Allah is as the likeness of Adam; He created him out of dust, then He said to him: “Be!” and he was. 60: (This is) the truth from your Lord, therefore do not be of those who doubt.

Verse 61 was finally revealed for conducting Mubahyla when all the arguments failed to convince the Christians: 61: And say to him who disputes with you therein after the knowledge has come to you (O Muhammad): “Come, let us summon our sons, and your sons, and our women and your women, and ourselves and yourselves, and then let us humbly pray and invoke the curse of Allah on the liars”. 62: Verily, this is the true narrative. There is no God save Allah; and verily, Allah is the almighty, the all-wise. 63: But if they turn away, then, verily, Allah knows the mischief-makers.

Tafseer-e-Namuna-2 Mubahyla in Arabic is a way of ascertaining truth, between two persons or two Pages: 348-349 parties, about religious matters. They gather in public and they pray to God that He may send down His curse on the party, which is lying.

It is narrated that, when the prophet challenged them for Mubahyla, the Christians requested respite to think about the matter. They discussed and decided, if the prophet will arrive with a large Muslim crowd, shouting and crying for justice then they would accept Mubahyla. But if he came

404 only with a small group of his family members, then it will be a sign that he is truly a messenger of God. Then they would not accept Mubahyla.

With this plan they reached the appointed place, where they saw the prophet coming with AliA, FatimaA, HasanA and HussainA. They did not accept Mubahyla, but accepted paying Jazya tax and made peace.

In respect of the 61st verse of Surah Al-i-Imran, many scholars have written about this Mubahyla, some famous ones are:

1. Muslim Bin Hijaj Nayshapury. 2. Ahmed Bin Hunmbl. 3. Tabari. 4. Fakhar-ud-din Razi. 5. Ibne Jozy. 6. Qazi Baidawy. 7. Zamkhshary. 8. Hafiz Ahmed Bin Hujr Asqlany. 9. Allama Qurtaby. 10. Aalusy.

A summary of the narrations by these different scholars can be put down as under: “The prophet had a black sheet covering his body. He carried in his lap his grandson HussainA (5 years old) and HassanA his six years old other grandson walked by his side holding his finger, FatimaA followed the prophet‟s footsteps and AliA followed her. This is how the prophet implemented the Quranic verse when HasanA and HussainA represented his sons, FatimaA represented the women and AliA represented his soul ( ). When the Lord Bishop saw this group, he was amazed and exclaimed: “O people of my nation, today I am seeing those pious and glorious faces whose prayers to God could even move the mountains from their place. So don‟t take the risk of having Mubahyla with them, for all of you will face death”.

When the Najran delegates refused Mubahyla, the prophet asked them to accept Islam. They refused this too. The prophet then asked them to prepare for a battle, they replied: We don‟t possess the strength to fight, we want to compromise for peace. Then under certain conditions compromise was made.

(Ref: Fayuz-ul-Quran, By: Abdul Samad Farooqi Qadri Chishti. Compiled by: Dr. Syed Hussain Balgramy (r), Vice Chancellor Bahawalpur University).

Tribe of Tay:

MuhammadS and the Tay was one of the most famous tribe of Arabs. They were idol-worshippers and course of Islam their major god was Fils (Philis). The tribe had two chiefs Zayed-al-Khail and Page: 146 A‟dy Bin Hatim-Tai.

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Seerat-un-Nabi-2 They visited the prophet in 9th Hijri and converted to Islam but A‟dy Bin Hatim Page: 29 followed his previous faith. He incited his neighboring tribes and gathered an army to fight the Muslims. When the prophet heard about this, he sent a small Spirit of Islam A A Syed Ameer Ali army under Ali ‟s command. When A‟dy heard about the arrival of Ali , he was Page: 203 frightened and escaped to Syria. His tribe fought as long as they could then surrendered.

Many of the respected elders along with Ady‟s sister and some of tribal women were captured. AliA brought the prisoners to Medina. Adequate facilities were provided to the prisoners of the defeated tribe, but the idols of Phillis were demolished. When these prisoners were brought before the prophet, he freed them and sent them back with gifts.

The sister of A‟dy went to Syria to her brother. When A‟dy heard about the treatment meted out to the prisoners and to her by the prophet, he was impressed and obliged. He immediately travelled to Medina, met the prophet, and begged humbly to be a Muslim, and thanked the prophet. He then returned to his people and all converted to Islam. Thus the idol-worshippers of Banu Tay became followers of the prophet in the year 10th Hijri.

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Chapter – 11 Events of Ninth and Tenth Hijri

Immunity Proclamation: Summary of In the year 8th Hijri after Mecca was conquered, the prophet left for Medina in Tafheem-ul-Quran-2 the month of Zyqad, i.e, one month before Hajj. Hence that year Hajj was Page: 174-178 performed as per rituals of the idol-worshippers as in the past. Spirit of Islam In 9th Hijri until the months of Zyqad and Zil-hajj, the infidels were still Page: 205-206 carrying out their rituals of idol-worship in the Ka’ba, because the Almighty Tafseer-e-Namuna Lord had not yet revealed any command to stop this practice. Page: 213-218 th But in the end of 9 Hijri, before the start of Hajj, Surah Tauba was revealed. The Holy Quran It‟s first ten verses banned totally all pagan activity and idol-worship in the Translated: precincts of Ka’ba from 10th Hijri onwards. The prophet sent Abu BakrR to S.V. Mir Ahmed Ali Mecca to announce these 10 verses on the occasion of Hajj; but immediately Tafsir after he replaced Abu BakrR by AliA. AliA recited these verses in Ka’ba infront Aqa Mirza Mahdi Puya of a large Hajj crowd of Pagans and infidels, many of whom were still hostile to Islam.

Al-Quran 1. A (declaration) of immunity from Allah and His messenger (Muhammad), Surah Tauba-9 to those of the idolaters with whom you have a (mutual) covenant. Verses: 1-10 2. Go about, then, in the land for four months, and know that you are not weakening Allah, and that Allah puts the infidels to shame. 3. And an announcement from Allah and His messenger, to the people (assembled) on the day of the great pilgrimage, that Allah is free from obligation to the idolaters, and (so is) His messenger. Therefore, if you repent, it will be better for you; and if you turn back, then know that you are not weakening Allah; and announce (O Muhammad) a painful chastisement to those who disbelieve. 4. Except those of the idolaters with whom you have entered into a pact and who thereafter did not fail you in anything, nor have they supported any one against you, then fulfill your pacts with them to the end of their term; verily Allah loves those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws. 5. Then, when the sacred months have passed, slay the idolaters wherever you find them, and seize them and besiege them and lie in wait for them at every ambush. Then if they repent and establish prayer, and give the poor-rate, leave their way free. Verily Allah is oft-forgiving, merciful. 6. And if any one of the idolaters seek your protection, grant protection to him, till he hears the word of Allah, then convey him to his place of safety. This 407

is so because they are a people who do not know. 7. How can there be a covenant with Allah and His messenger for the idolaters except those with whom you made a covenant at the sacred masjid? So long as they are faithful to them; verily Allah loves those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws. 8. How (can there be any alliance) when, if they overcome you they neither observe pacts nor ties in respect of you? They entice you with (sweet words from) their mouths while their hearts are averse to you: and most of them are transgressors. 9. They have bartered Allah‟s signs for a small price, so they obstruct others from His way-evil indeed are the deeds they do. 10. They do not respect either ties or pacts (in case of) a believer: and these are they who transgress all limits.

The words of the verses were very strict and did mean business, as they declared an open war against those infidels who were still planning annihilation of Muslims. For other infidels, who had peace pacts with Muslims and were holding to their pacts, immunity was granted.

Now the question was who would declare this open challenge at the Hajj.

The prophet thought of Abu BakrR‟s, perhaps because of his status among the Arabs, and his respectable age. According to Tafseer Ibne-Kasyr on the revelation of Surah Tauba’s first ten verses, the prophet summoned Abu BakrR and told him to go to Mecca and to recite them on the occasion of Hajj. After Abu BakrR left, AliA was called by the prophet and was ordered to take prophet‟s she-camel and catch up with Abu BakrR and take the revealed verses from him. Then he was to recite them before Arabs at Hajj time in Mecca. After the recitation of verses, AliA was to make this announcement:

1. Those will not enter Paradise who refuse to accept Islam. 2. After this year no non-believer will be allowed to come for Hajj. 3. Circumambulating the Ka’ba naked is forbidden from after this year. 4. The prophet will abide by the agreements he has made until their specific period ends.

AliA said: “O‟ Prophet! I am not a good orator”.

The prophet replied: “Go, Allah will give you the power of speech and will guide your heart”.

After that the prophet placed his hand over AliA‟s mouth, to bless him with eloquence. Since then AliA became a great Orator of Arabia. As per instructions, AliA travelled towards Mecca. Abu BakrR seeing the prophet‟s camel coming, stopped and saw AliA. He inquired: “Is it all well? (at Medina)”.

In Reply AliA told him about the prophet‟s order. Abu BakrR complied and returned to Medina where he asked the prophet: “Is there any Divine command for me”? 408

Prophet said: “No! Angel Gabriel arrived and told me that God wanted this announcement to be made either by myself on or a male member of my family”.

In short in 9th Hijri on the occasion of Hajj-e-Akbar, AliA recited these 10 verses on behalf of the prophet before the pilgrims. The tone and manner of these verses was hard and stern, and Allah was well aware that this crucial announcement must be made either by the prophet himself or one of his family male member.

AliA was one, who was brought up by the prophet and who was trained and tutored by him from childhood. The way he gave sermon in Ka’ba, moved everyone who heard him. All those who heard AliR‟s sermon, left for their homes and towns (after the Hajj) greatly convinced and when they returned the next year their majority came as Muslims. (Ref: Masnad Ahmed. Vol: 1, Page 231; and Vol: 3, Page 212. Published in Egypt. Khasais Nasai’. Page 23. Tafseer-ibn-Kathir, Vol: 2, Page 322; Jame-ul-Awwal. Vol: 9, Page 475).

10th Hijri: Spirit of Islam Like 9th Hijri, in this year also many delegates from various parts of Arabia Syed Ameer Ali visited the prophet, and requested for preachers for their tribes. The prophet then Page: 201 sent preachers with these important instructions.

“Behave well and with kindness. Do not be stern in your preaching of the religion. Give them the tidings and do not frighten them. When you meet believers of the Holy Books (Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians etc.) and they question: “What is the key to heavens”? Give them only this answer: “The key to heavens is to proclaim the Right ( ) and to act righteously”.

Yemen and its Tribes: Spirit of Islam Yemen situated in the south-west of Arabia, was an ancient centre of trade and Syed Ameer Ali civilization. The magnificent Empire of Saba and Humayr once existed here. Page: 60-61 This south-western part of Arabian Peninsula called Yemen was inhabited by Yemeni tribes. Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Nearly 35 years before the prophet‟s birth Negro Christians captured Yemen. Summary of Pages: Few years after, Kaiser of Persia (Iran) invaded and captured Yemen, and ruled 19-36 it through a governor, while the majority population still remained Christians. Nearly all the Yemeni tribes were descendents of Qahtan Bin Aabr (Prophet AbrahamA‟s descendant). Due to it‟s ancient civilization, all Arabs regarded Yemen as their leader and predecessor. Yemen had been a great trade center since yore, trading with India, Africa, and many other countries. The smaller tribes were under the influence of the big Yemeni tribes like Kandah, Dos, Asha‟ris, Hamdaan, Jazyma and Mazhajj. 409

(i). Kandah Tribe:

Kandah was a famous city of Yemen; it was ruled by Kandah dynasty. This tribe had embraced Islam prior to 10th Hijri. Asha‟s Bin Qys was its chief. The allies of this tribe too had accepted Islam. Abu BakrR during his tenure as Caliph, married off his sister Umm-e-Farwa with Asha‟s Bin Qys. Asha‟s fought as a Muslim warrior in the battles of Yarmuk and Qadsya, and fought as AliA‟s follower in battle of Siffin.

(ii). Dos Tribe:

Dos was a prominent Yemeni tribe. The chief of this tribe, Tufail Bin U‟mruR, visited Mecca prior to the prophet‟s migration to Medina. The Quraiysh tried to persuade him not to meet the prophet, but he waited calmly for an opportunity.

One day he went to Kaaba, here he got a chance of meeting the prophet; impressed by MohammadS‟s personality, he requested: “Tell me about Islam”.

The prophet preached about Islam and whole-heartedly he embraced Islam. Returning home, he gave the Dawa of Islam to his people. But his tribesmen who were, mired in adultery, felt Islam will ban this custom of theirs, hence they hesitated.

After the Prophet‟s migration to Medina, Tufail Bin U‟mruR again visited the prophet, and spoke about his tribe‟s condition. The prophet prayed and then directed him:

“Go back and give the Dawa politely and kindly to your people”.

TufailR acted accordingly and the tribe converted to Islam. Famous narrator Abu-HuryrahR belonged to this tribe.

(iii). Ashar’ys Tribe:

This was the most respected tribe of Yemen. When they learnt about the prophet‟s migration to Medina, then a delegation of 53 people under the leadership of Musa Asha‟ryR decided to travel to Medina. This was the time when Mecca had not yet been conquered by Muslims. The infidels were powerful and they controlled the various routes to Medina. Hence this delegation decided to travel by Sea, however due to unfavorable wind, they landed on the shores of Ethiopia. Jaffar Bin Abi TalibR, was still in Ethiopia and they accepted Islam on his teachings. When JafarR returned, they accompanied him to Medina and met the prophet.

(iv). The Tribes Hamdaan, Jazyma and Mazhajj:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 In Yemen Hamdaan was a large influential tribe. The tribes of Jazyma and Pages: 19-23 Mazhajj both were under its influence. AliA was sent towards these three tribes 410

for the Dawa of Islam. Initially in 8th Hijri KhalidR Bin Walyd was sent to them for the Dawa. He stayed there for six months, but failed in his mission. Then the prophet summoned back KhalidR and sent AliA.

AliA on reaching there introduced himself, to a large gathering. Banu Hashim, had old relations with Yemeni tribes. Abdul Mutlb had travelled in 579AD, as a Quraiysh representative to Sana on the coronation of Saif, as the ruler of Tababa. It was on the same return journey that he died. Abu Talib with Banu Hashim traders, visited Yemen many times. The chief item of his trade was Yemeni sheets. Thus after introducing himself as a member of the same familiar tribe of Banu Hashim, AliA read out the message of the prophet. Hearing this message they all converted to Islam.

When AliA reported to the prophet about this expedition, the prophet was pleased. He thanked his Lord and said: “Peace be upon you O people of Hamdaan”.

In 10th Hijri again AliA was sent towards Mazhajj tribe for preaching. AliA departed with 300 hundred soldiers. Before departure, prophet gave him last minute instructions: “Unless they attack you, do not take lead in the attack”.

When AliA reached and started preaching, they in reply started hurling stones and arrows. Then AliA attacked in response, 20 members of their tribe were killed, the rest fled. AliA did not order the chase. Soon after this incidence the nobles of the tribe, presented themselves before AliA, and embraced Islam. They announced the same for their tribesmen. Thus the whole of Yemen became an Islamic land and the prophet made the son of Bazaan (the late ruler) the ruler of Yemen. AliA was still in Yemen, when the prophet embarked towards Mecca for Hajj. The prophet asked AliA to reach Mecca from Yemen. AliA started for Mecca along with many new-Muslims, scholars and Abu Musa AsharyR. The rest of the Yemen and Hijaz tribes accepted Islam the same year. Following them the tribes of Hazar Maut and Bahrain too embraced Islam.

Hajj-al-Wida’ (10th Zilhajj i.e, March 632 AD):

Now that Islam was established and prophet had almost completed his mission, and complete victory of Islam was there for everybody to see, the Almighty Lord revealed this Surah:

Al-Quran When the help of God arrives with victory. Surah Al-Nasr-110 And you see people enter God‟s religion horde after horde. (Complete). Then glorify your Lord and seek His forgiveness. Verily He is relenting.

Prophet MuhammadS had fulfilled his responsibilities, which the Almighty Lord had willed him to do.

Al-Quran It is God who raised among the gentiles a prophet from amongst them, who Surah Juma-62 recites His revelations to them, reforms them and teaches them the Scriptures Verse: 2 and the Law, for before him they were clearly in error.

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This verse of Surah Juma’ stands witness that the prophet who was sent towards an ignorant and illiterate people, recited the holy verses before them, reformed them and taught them scriptures and laws. As a result, the people who were mired in evil and sin, were reformed, and purified. They learnt from the prophet‟s wisdom and obtained the light of knowledge which brought them out of the dark abyss. This knowledge removed disgrace, indignity and distress, from their hearts, which were now filled with love and faith in the Omnipotence and Monotheism of Allah.

These people (Arabs), who were divided and confronted each other on minor pretexts, now united into one fraternity by entering the folds of Islam. This faith brought peace, and safety to them and removed their vices and evils.

Having accomplished all this, an important errand still remained for the prophet to execute i.e, to announce as a concluding phase, the crux of his teachings in as large gathering as possible. The last announcement of Divine Will was thus to be made public. For this purpose the best occasion was the Annual Pilgrimage (Hajj). Allah therefore ordered His Messenger to perform Hajj and the prophet then announced throughout Arabia, that Muslims should come for Hajj. Wherever this message reached, Muslims readily and feverishly embarked on the pilgrimage journey to Mecca.

Number of Pilgrims: Islamic On 25th Ziqa‟ad i.e, February 23rd 632 AD, the prophet started his journey from encyclopaedia Medina. According to Ibne Hisham, Ibne Kasyr and Seerat Halbiya, 40,000 Page: 250 Muslims accompanied the prophet from Medina. Many others joined the caravan from northern, eastern and western regions and from Yemen. The total rose to anywhere between 90,000 and 140,000. All wives of the prophet and his daughter FatimaA with all her children were with him. AliA was not with the prophet, as he had still not returned from the expedition of Yemen. Before starting the journey the prophet sent a messenger with a letter to AliA, asking him to reach Mecca directly from Yemen.

Zul-Halifa / (Myqat of Madina):

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 At a distance of six miles from Medina, the prophet camped. All incoming Pages: 96-107 pilgrims also assembled here. This camping spot is called Zul-Halifa and is the appointed place, from where the pilgrims make a vow of Hajj and adorn Ahraam (special dress of unstitched white sheets to cover the body).

At this location the prophet camped for the night. The next morning after Fajr prayers he took a bath, offered two Rakaat and wore Ahraam, all Muslims followed suit. Then he rode his favorite she-camel Quswa and said loudly:

“O Allah! We are present before You. All praises and graciousness is Yours, none is Your partner in Your Realm”. 412

JaabirR who has narrated the events of this Hajj, writes: As far as eyes could see, a vast jungle of people was visible. Whenever the prophet pronounced “Labaik” the whole gathering resounded with “Labaik”, it echoed in the valley. This journey from Medina to Mecca took nine days. After the conquest of Mecca, this was the first and the last entrance of the prophet into the holy city. It was a heavenly sight, as soon as the prophet saw the Ka’ba, he prayed: “O Allah! Grant this house more respect eminence and excellence”. The prophet circumambulated the Ka’ba, the same day, then standing on Muqam (spot) of AbrahamA, he offered prayers. Then he recited the following Quranic verses: Al-Quran Remember, God made the Houser(of Ka’ba) a place of congregation and safe Surah Baqarah-2 retreat, and said: “Make the spot where AbrahamA stood the place of worship”, Verse: 125 and enjoined upon AbrahamA and IshmaelA to keep Our House immaculate for those who shall walk around it and stay in it for contemplation and prayer and for bowing in adoration.

When he reached the hill of Saffa he recited aloud:

Al-Quran Truly Safa and Marwa are symbols of God. Whoever goes on pilgrimage to the Surah Baqarah-2 House (Ka’ba), or on a holy visit, is not guilty of any wrong if walks around Verse: 158 them; and one who does good of his own accord will find appreciation with God who knows everything.

From the hill of Safa, when he saw Ka’ba, he recited this verse of Quran:

Al-Quran And make us submit, O Lord, to your Will, and make our progeny a people Surah Baqarah-2 submissive to you. Teach us the way of worship and forgive our trespasses, for Verse: 128 you are compassionate and merciful.

After climbing down Saffa hill, he came to Marwa, and prayed here too.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Arabs believed that Umra was illegal during the period of Hajj. After Page: 97 circumambulating and Sa’yee i.e completing the rituals of Umra, when the prophet asked those who did not have sacrificial animals, to remove their

Ahraams, many companions, who were still influenced by the pre-Islamic rituals, hesitated to obey and asked to be excused. The prophet told them: “This is Allah‟s Command, if I too had not possessed sacrificial animals, I would have also removed my Ahraam”. Still people hesitated.

R Sahee Muslim Muslim in his Sahee, with reference to Ayesha states, when the prophet came Chapter: Al-Hajj in her tent after performing the rituals of Umra, he was furious and complained about the people, on which I consoled him and said:

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“Those who have made you furious, Allah will throw them in the fires of hell”.

Tareekh-e-Tabari During this period, AliA arrived from Yemen along with a caravan of pilgrims. Page: 480 In his zeal to meet the prophet, he made one of his companions the incharge and instructed his troops: “You all come in his guidance, I will travel faster”.

He reached Mecca and met the prophet. AliA informed him about the situation of Yemen, which pleased the prophet.

AliA‟s assistant distributed the war booty amongst the soldiers, so that they may enter Mecca in pomp and show. AliA after meeting the prophet when returned back to his soldiers he was angry. He said: “Leave alone this booty and remove these robes before you present yourself to the prophet with this appearance”.

The soldiers did not like this order, for they believed in their right of ownership of the booty. Whereas AliA as per Divine Command, wanted everything to be presented before the prophet, who would himself divide the booty after deduction of Khums. These soldiers met the prophet and complained about AliA‟s behavior. The prophet got furious and gave sermon immediately: “O people! Do not complain about Ali before me. You all should remember one who makes Ali furious, makes me furious. One, who leaves Ali, leaves me. Ali is from me, and I am from Ali”.

(Narration Abdullah Bin Bareedah and Saeed Bin Jabyr, Masnad Imam Ahmed Bin Hunmbl).

Then the prophet addressing AliA, said: “O Ali! After performing the rituals of Umra, you and all friends should remove Ahraam”.

AliA replied: “O prophet! When I intended to perform Hajj, I had said to myself, “O Allah, I want to perform Hajj exactly the same way as Your servant the holy prophet does”. The prophet inquired: “Do you have Hudy” (sacrificial animal)? AliA replied: “No”. Then the prophet said: “Ok! You can have a share in my sacrificial animals”.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Both AliA and the prophet kept wearing the Ahraams till the end of the Page: 480 pilgrimage. The prophet offered sacrifices both on his and on AliA‟s behalf. Then they removed their Ahraam and put on their normal clothes.

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Rites of Hajj: (Stay in Mina):

Seerat-un-Nahi-2 On Thursday 8th Zilhajj, prophet left Mecca for Minna, and stayed there Page: 97 overnight with his followers. The next day on 9th Zilhajj after offering the Fajr prayers he left Mina. It was a Friday.

Stay at Arafat:

Until now the Quraiysh after leaving Mecca for Mina used to stay at Mudalfa which was within the precincts of Ka’ba (instead of Arafat). They believed if the Quraiysh would perform the Hajj rites outside the Haram (Ka’ba precincts) it will be against their dignity and honor.But the prophet in order to bring equality amongst the Muslims, stayed at Arafat, thus defying the sense of pride of the Quraiysh. He had it announced: “Stay at this sacred spot as you are the heirs of AbrahamA”.

It was because AbrahamA had chosen Arafat for the Hajj rites and the Quraiysh had changed this tradition many years after. In Arafat, the prophet stayed along with all Muslims in the Namra valley, in a tent made of blankets. After mid day, the prophet came out of his tent and rode his camel, sitting on it, he delivered the famous sermon, which was the gist of the holy Book, and essence of wisdom. It was the last lesson about sanctification of human soul, it also summarised in itself commands issued for the reform of human society. This sermon was unique in its eloquence and values.

It‟s beauty lay in use of simple, small sentences, hiding in them deep meaning. It was a summary of all that the prophet had been preaching for the last 23 years. The second virtue was the style of the speech. The prophet spoke slowly and clearly so that each person could hear and comprehend. Where he felt essential, he explained in detail. The third virtue of this sermon was that through it, he in a beautiful impressive style revoked all absurd and ignorant Arab customs of family superiority and arrogance.

Last Sermon (Khutba-al-Wida):

The prophet first glorified and praised Allah, then said: “O people! Hear attentively whatever I say. Perhaps next year or after it, I may not meet you at this place, O people! Your Lord (Allah) is One, No doubt, your Allah is One and there is no doubt that your forefather is one (Adam).

However no Arab or non-Arab have preference over each other. Whites have no preference over Blacks and or vice versa. Preference is only for the Pious (people of Taqwa).

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Every Muslim is the brother of other Muslim and thus all Muslims are brothers. Your Slaves, give them to eat what you eat and give them such clothes, as you wear. Your women have rights over you and you have rights over your women, treat them gently. Fear Allah in their matters. But the wife does not have the right to spend her husband‟s earnings, without his permission.

The boy belongs to one on whose bed the birth took place. For adulterers there are stones, but their justice lies with Allah. Any boy who claims to belong to other than his father, or a slave who claims someone else as his master is evoking Divine Curse.

The revenge of killings of the age of ignorance (prior to Islam) is declared null and void. First of all I forgive the killing of my family member Rabbi‟ya Bin Harris Bin Abdul Muttalib.

All interests of pre-Islamic days are revoked, first of all I revoke the interest of my family member Abbas Bin Abdul Muttalib. The debtor have only to pay the principal amount only.

All entrusted things must be returned to the owners. All borrowed items must be returned. Debts should be cleared. All grants should be returned. The guarantor is responsible of ransom. Allah has given the rightful what is his right (as per inheritance).

Looking at the crowd he continued: “Look! do not go astray after me. See, refrain from cruelty. Understand that you have to protect the life and property of each other, No Muslim has a right to utilize another Muslim‟s assets without his permission, if so the act will be regarded as tyranny and cruelty.

The crowd heard the sermon in complete silence and respect. The prophet then questioned: “O people! When Allah will question you about me, what will be your answer”?

All replied: “We will say the prophet of Allah, gave us the whole Complete Divine Message”.

Hearing this prophet raised his first finger towards the heaven and said: “O Allah! Stand witness to their testimony”. After it, the prophet spoke at length about wisdom and knowledge. At the end of the sermon, the prophet said:

“O people! Those who are present are entrusted with the duty to repeat my words to those who are not present here. It is possible they may remember my words better than those who have heard them with their ears”.

As the sermon ended, the prophet asked BilalR to recite Azaan (prayer call) and offered Zohr and Asr prayers together.

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From here, he went to his tent on camel back where he stayed for a considerable time, praying and praising to his Lord and praised Him. As the sun started setting, he signalled all to start journey. Soon the whole caravan was on the move. On his way, he asked people to slow down their speed and said: “O people! Move slowly”.

When the caravan reached Muzdlfa, here Maghrib and Isha prayers were offered togather, after which they camped here for the night. Early in the morning after Fajr prayers, they started their journey again.

Prior to Islam the infidels used to leave this place, after the sun rose in the skies, as its rays shone over the hills, they would shout: “O hills! Shine brightly in sun-shine”.

To abolish this rite, the prophet ordered all pilgrims to leave this place before sun rise and made it mandatory for all times to come. Travelling through Mohsr valley the caravan reached Jumrata. Here he asked Ibne AbbasR who was a kid, to collect some pebbles for him. Then he threw the pebbles at Shaytan at three places, and addressing the people said: “Restrain from transgression and exagerence in matters of religion, because many nations were destroyed because of these. Also learn the rites and remember them, as I do not know whether I will be here for a second pilgrimage”.

Then the prophet reached Mina. Though his last sermon had covered all important points he had wished to convey, yet now he felt it essential to repeat some of them. His eloquence and oration made it a historical speech which people remembered word by word.

The prophet said: “O humans! Do you know what day it is today”? All replied: “Allah and His Messenger know better”.

The prophet did not speak for some moments and then asked the attentive crowed: “Is it not the day to offer sacrifice”? People replied: “No doubt it is”. Again he inquired: “what month is this”? People replied: “Allah and the prophet know better”. Then the prophet said: “Is it not the month of Zil-hajj”? All said: “Yes, it is”. Then he asked: “which city is this”? The same answer came, he then said: “Is this not the Sacred Haram city”? Again all said: “No doubt it is”.

Here the prophet stood silently, allowing his questions and answers to sink deep in their psyche and memory, that this day, month and city forbids bloodshed and makes it peaceful and safe for all. Then he continued:

“O humans! Your blood, your honour, and your assets are as sacred for each other as this day, this month and this city. Be aware! Not to stray from the right path after me. Don‟t start killing each

417 other. You must not forget that you will be summoned by Allah who will question you about your actions and deeds. Yes, each individual will himself be held responsible for his actions. The father will not be held responsible for his son‟s deeds and son will not be held responsible for his father‟s deeds”.

He again repeated the basic rights and principles of Islam, and said: “O humans! Worship your Creator, offer prayer five times a day, fast for a month, obey all that I have ordered, you will enter Allah‟s Paradise.

O people! I am leaving behind with you two important valuables, one the (Holy) Book of Allah and second my family members (Ahl-e-Bait). Both will never separate from each other, till the day they will meet me at the Kausar fountain (in paradise). If you will bond with these two, you will never stray from the right path”.

This last saying of the prophet comprising of three sentences, has been mentioned by the biographers of the holy prophet at three different places.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Maulana Shibly says, the prophet uttered these three sentences on the Page: 106 day of Ghadyr, to the crowd.

Sawai-e-Muhriqa Ibne Hujr A‟sqalani in his book of Hadith called it Hadith-e-Saqlayn has Chapter: 9 referred it to 20 narrators. They were the companions of the prophet, and had accompanied him at every important occasion. He relates that this Fasal -2 (last lines) Hadith was repeated by the prophet thrice. 1. At Arafat ground in the Sermon of his last Hajj. 2. At Ghadyr Khum. 3. On his sick bed.

Maulana Shibly in his Seerat-un-Nabi writing about the last Sermon stated, it was the time when the whole Arabian desert was brightened by the light of Islam. Ka’ba had acquired the status of being the centre of AbrahamA‟s Umma, mischievous and wicked powers were destroyed. It was this fact that the prophet in his Sermon at Manna declared: “Yes, Satan has lost all hopes, as he knows in this city he will never be worshipped, however you will follow him in many insignificant matters on which he will be pleased”.

After this, he stated: “Those who are present here, should relay this message to those who are not present”.

After this, he bade farewell to the crowd and reached the sacrificial place. He had brought a hundred camels for sacrifice. He offered his animals and AliA offered his on behalf of his family. The prophet slaughtered some camels himself, and asked AliA to slaughter the rest. He instructed Ali: “Distribute the meat, hide etc in alms (charity). Pay the butcher separately”.

Then the prophet reached the well (Zam Zam). The family of Abdul Muttalib had the charge of supplying water from the well. Abbas drew water and offered the prophet, who facing the Ka’ba, drank it. Again he returned to Mina and offered Zohr and Asr prayers. The prophet stayed there till 418

12th Zil-Hajja. On the 13th afternoon he left Mina and reached the valley of Muhsb and took a short rest. In the evening he started out for Mecca, where he circumambulated the Kaaba and performed other rites. He stayed for the night there and early the next morning after Fajr prayers started the return journey to Medina.

Ghadyr Khum:

Ibne Khalqan-1 The place called Ghadyr is three miles from Ju‟ffa. There is a pond here, in Page: 383 Arabic a pond is called Ghadyr. Hence in all books of history, this place is named Ghadyr Khum. All those Arab caravans, which came for pilgrimage, on their return journey had to come to this location, and then move on in different directions to their destinations.

The prophet reached this place on 18th Zil-Hajja. He had no intentions of camping here as the water reservoir was not large enough to cater for the need of such large numbers of travellers. The whole surrounding area was a barren desert having no hill or tree for shelter but it was Divine Will that he should stay here.

It is said before the prophet reached this spot, angel GabrielA came with revelation.

Al-Quran (O Muhammad), deliver what has been sent down to you from your Lord; and if Surah Maida-5 you do not do it, then (it will be as if) you have not delivered His message (at Verse: 67 all). Surely God will protect you from (the mischief) of people. Verily God does not guide a disbelieving people.

Scholars narrate it from prophet‟s companions Zayed Bin ArqmR, Abu Saeed KhidriR, Ibne AbbasR and JabirR Ibne Abdullah Ibne Masood, that this verse of Surah Maida was revealed on Thursday, 18th of Zil-Hajja, 10th Hijri. Prophet then instructed his caravan to stop and ordered that all those who had travelled ahead, should be called back through messengers and those who were left behind should be awaited. When all gathered it was time of Zohr (Noon) prayers.

The prophet ordered for Azaan (prayer call) and Bilal obeyed. The prophet led the congregation in the scorching heat. The sun was shining on their heads and there was no shelter from its squatting heat. Leafless bushes stood by, some covered them with sheets and set down underneath. There was a larger bush which was also covered with sheets from a pulpit made of packed (camel) saddles. The prophet stood on the pulpit, holding the hand of AliA and making him stand on his right hand. Then he started his address: “O people! Listen carefully. O people! I too am a human, it is possible that the Angel of death approaches and I would have to accept it (death). I am leaving behind two important and valuable things. One the Divine Book (Quran) which is for guidance and light. The second is my Ahlal-Bayt (family). Hold both these firmly. The all Knowing Wise Lord, has informed me that these two will not separate from each other till the day they reach me at the pond of Kausar (a heavenly pond in paradise). 419

Allama Shibly says that the virtues and greatness of Ali have been narrated in different ways by all major narrators, such as Sahee Muslim (Munaqb AliR), Nisai, Imam Ahmed bin Hanmbl, Trimizi, Tibrany, Tabari and Hakim, but one sentence is common among all their narrations i.e,: “To whom I am Maula, Ali is also Maula to them. O Allah, love them who love Ali and be enemy to those who are enemies to Ali”.

Imam Nasai and Imam Hunmbl with reference to Zayd Bin ArqmR have written this Hadith, they say: “We all camped at the location of Ghadyr Khum. It was a noon of scorching heat when the prophet offered Zohr prayers and we prayed behind him. Then he gave the sermon, after praising Allah he said: “I feel that soon I will be summoned by my Lord, and I will depart. I am leaving behind two valuable things amongst you, each one is superior to the other. They are the Quran the holy Book of Allah and my Ahlal-Bayt (my family). It is to be seen how you treat both. My All-wise, Omnipotent God has informed me that both will never separate from each other, till the day they meet me at the (heavenly) pond of Kausar”.

Then he inquired: “O people! Don‟t you stand witness that I have more authority over souls of all Mominin, male and females, more than they have on themselves”? All replied: “No doubt you do O prophet”. Then holding and lifting the arm of AliA, the prophet said: “Listen! Allah is my Maula, and I am the Maula of all Mominin. To whom I am Maula, Ali is also Maula”. Then the prophet prayed: “O Allah! Be a friend to those who told Ali as friend, and be enemy to those who are emy to Ali”. It was a brief sermon, but the fluency and clarity of speech made it‟s comprehension easy for the Arab audience. Thousands heard and understood the meaning, specially the meaning of the word “Maula” (Master, Lord). None doubted the importance of the event and therefore none asked as to why in the heat of the desert all those left behind and gone ahead, were summoned. Were they asked to undergo the torturous heat just to hear one sentence? That is why none asked the prophet: “O prophet! What do you mean by Maula”.

No one questioned: “O prophet! Why did you stop the journey for such a small utterance, whereas prior to Hajj and during Hajj too, you had praised AliA many a times”?

Interpreters write as the sermon ended, Angel GabrielA came with this revelation:

Al-Quran Today the unbelievers have lost every hope of (despoiling) your religion. So do Surah Maida-5 not fear them, fear Me. Today I have perfected your religion and bestowed My Verse: 3 favours on you in full, and have chosen Islam as the religion for you

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This announcement brought joy in the hearts of the Mominin and the believers. First of all Umer FarooqR and Abu BakrR congratulated AliA with the following words:

“Congratulations, congratulations, as from today you have become the Maula of all Momin men and women”.

However the hypocrites were displeased and they started their intrigues. The first effect of these intrigues is mentioned by interpreters in their writings about Surah Ma'arij.

Al-Quran A seeker asked for chastisement that is to befall upon the disbelievers, which Surah Ma'arij-70 Verses: 1-3 none shall be able to repel. It is from God who is (Lord of ways of ascent).

Tafheem-ul-Quran-6 Page: 86 While elucidating these verses Maulana Maududi has written that Nisai‟ and other scholars have written about this incident with reference to Ibne-AbbasR. Hakm says that it is correct that Harris uttered such words (i.e, asking for chastisement).

This whole incidence is narrated by Halby in his book Seerat-al-Halyba, while writing about the prophet‟s last Sermon. He says:

When the prophet came to Medina after delivering his Last Sermon, what happened at Ghadyr Khum quickly spread amongst all tribes and towns. It was heard by Harris Bin Nauman Fhry also. He immediately left for Medina upon hearing it, and there he went to the prophet and rudely questioned: “O Mohammad! You asked us to stand witness to the unity of Allah and to witness your prophet-hood. We obeyed. You ordered us to pray, we prayed. You said, pay Zakaat, we accepted that too. Then you asked us to perform Hajj, we obeyed. We accepted and obeyed all this, still you were not pleased. Now what did you do, you held the hand of your cousin, made him stand up, then gave him preference over us and declared: “To whom I am Maula Ali also is Maula to them. were these words your own, or they were from Allah”?

The prophet replied: “I swear that there is no god except Allah. This was from Allah, and I did what He Commanded me to do”.

Hearing this Harris walked towards his camel continuously saying those words which the non- believers used to say, and were recorded by Quran:

Al-Quran And remember when they said: “O Allah, if this (Quran) be the truth from you, Surah Anfal-8 then rain down upon us stones from heaven, or bring on us a painful Verse: 32 chastisement”.

He had still not reached his camel that Divine Chastisement overtook him. A stone dropped from the skies, struck his head and breaking through his skull, came out of his bottom. This brought about his instant death.

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Return to Medina:

Departing from Ghadyr Khum on the return journey to Medina, the prophet camped for a night at Zul-Halyfa. Departing from there after the Fajr prayers prophet‟s caravan entered Medina, when the sun was rising in the skies. Upon sight of Medina‟s buildings prophet prayed:

“Allah is the most Revered the most Gracious. There is no God but Allah. All Sovereignty belongs to Him, none shares it with Him. All praises are for Him, He is Omnipotent. O Allah! We have returned after fulfilling your Command, after prostration, after offering repentance and after praising You and thanking You. O people, Allah fulfilled His Promise, He gave victory to His prophet against a grand alliance of infidel tribes”.

11th Hijri Events:

From month of Muharram 11th Hijri to month of Rabbi-al-Awwal 11th Hijri (3 months). 1. Lashkar-e-Usama:

Muslims had returned to Medina after performing Hajj, during the last 10 days of Zil-Hajj. Now they rested for some days after the tiring journey. Then the prophet ordered preparation of an army in the month of Muharram, so as to complete the unfinished job of battle of Mauta and to avenge the killing of the Muslim ambassador sent to Syria. Hence all Muhajirin and Ansar were ordered to prepare for the journey and Usama Bin Zayed was appointed as commander.

Prophet gave following instructions to Usama-bin-ZayadR: “Do not travel on the usual route to Syria, but take the other route through Ahlazbt and Jordan”.

These instructions show that the prophet understood very well that the road to Christian Europe is through Syria for propagation of Islam.

UsamaR was a young man and the son of a freed slave, hence the senior companions of the prophet did not like his command. A complaint was lodged at which the prophet asked them to assemble, so that he could address them. He spoke to them for some time, then concluded his speech by saying:

“Prior to this you all had objected to the command of Zayed Bin Harris (Usama‟s father) though he qualified and deserved that position. Like his father Usama too is more capable for the post than all of you”.

This decision was not made by the prophet on his own but was Divine Will. By these words, he did not mean that the status of his companions was degraded, but the selection for commander‟s position of this extremely important expedition depended upon capability of the military skill and strategy. Obviously all cannot be equal in such matters. The prophet wished the expedition to conclude during his lifetime, so he wanted the army to leave immediately. As soon the preparations 422 were finalised, he ordered the army to march. The prophet accompanied the army to the last limit of the city, and stood there watching the marching army flag until it could not be seen. This he did inspite of the illness which had overtaken him.

However as soon as the prophet returned to Medina, the army camped for the night wherever it was. Instead of swift movement they showed apathy and negligence towards the prophet‟s command. Prophet‟s close companions returned to Medina and offered their prayers in Masjid-e- Nabvi. Despite his illness the prophet led the prayers. After the prayers he inquired: “Why have you not departed”? Abu BakrR replied: “Before departure, I returned to see you once again”. Hearing this the prophet ordered: “Go, and go fast”. He said it three times.

Despite this order the army stayed at its camp outside Medina at a place called “Jarf”. The health of the prophet deriorated during this period. This was the first occasion that the companions of the prophet gave preference to their personal opinion over the prophet‟s order.

False Claimants of Prophet-hood:

The news of the prophet‟s sickness spread swiftly in and out of Medina. The areas far distant from Medina faced law and order situation. Three (false) claimants of prophet-hood appeared to take advantage of the situation. They cheated and through fraud tried to gain the support of their tribes. Amongst them the most dangerous and clever was a wealthy chief in Yemen, named Al-Aswad Bin Ka‟ab. He took control of the simple innocent people of Yemen through his treachery.

He managed to gain support of many tribes and with their help succeeded in killing Shar, the son of Yemen‟s governor Baazan. Then he forcibly married Shar‟s wife, in the city of Sana. When the prophet received this news, he wrote to newly converted Iranian Muslim, Abnaa‟, “kill Aswad” and he prayed for their success. Abnaa‟ with the help of the widow of Shar, (Marzbana), succeeded in killing Aswad, while he was heavily drunk. The death of Aswad ended this mischief.

Muslyma Kazaab:

This man was a newly converted Muslim and was the prince of Yamama. He claimed prophet- hood and was able to ally with many members of Banu Qys and Banu Tamym. Then he wrote a letter to the prophet: “From a messenger of Allah Muslyma, to a messenger of Allah Mohammad. I am your partner. Power and authority should be equally divided between us. Half of ten States (Islamic) should be mine and the other half should be yours. But Quraiysh are usurpers and are not habitual of rendering justice”.

The prophet replied: “In the name of the Most Beneficent and Merciful, from Mohammad (the prophet) to Muslyma the liar. Salutation on those who follow the rightful path. Earth belongs to Allah, 423

who choses to handover its authority to one He wants. The prosperity in the life of hereafter is for the virtuous ( )”.

After this reply instead of fighting with these mischievous people, the prophet thought of a new strategy. From Yamama to Yemen, Persian (Iranian) people called Abnaa‟, had their settlements. They all had embraced Islam. The prophet sent his riders towards their chiefs and wrote to them: “Help the Mominin of Banu Qys and Banu Tamym”.

On the other hand, prophet wrote to the notables of Banu Tamym and Banu Qys to help the Abnaa‟ in this matter. Due to this very strategy Aswad was killed in Yemen and Muslyma fled in fear and went underground.

Talheya Assady:

He also claimed prophet-hood and allied Banu Asad with him. However the end of Aswad and fleeing of Musylma frightened him. Both these false claimant of prophethood were dealt with, by Abu BakrR, during his caliphate.

The Last Engagements of the Prophet:

Reading the biographies of the prophet, one forms an impression that the last days of the prophet were spent in great misery and suffering as he was suffering from severe headache and high fever. He wore a bandage on his head all the time, and would enter the mosque, lead the prayer and would return home immediately due to the pain. It appears from this scenario as if he was totally helpless and weak. But this impression is not quite true.

If we study the books of history with attention, we would realize that as his sickness increased, so did his efforts to complete his mission and to wind up the scattered affairs. He was swiftly enacting the last chapter of his life and prophet-hood. The last two months of his life i.e, Muharram and Safar of 11th Hijri, were quite important as far as the prophethood was concerned. This busy schedule of the prophet can be seen in history books and his biographies. However there is so much confusion and contradictions about the events of these 60 days in various books, that the task of finding the truth is a formidable one. The writings about these events are still more complex and taxing.

Protection of Islamic State:

The gravest danger to the Muslims was from the Byzantine Roman Empire. The Roman Emperor Heraclius awaited the opportunity of invading Islamic State of Medina and annihilating Islam. Perceiving this danger, the Islamic army was ordered by the prophet to move immediately

424 towards the enemy. Until the last moments of his life, the prophet insisted on this as he wanted to take advantage of the element of surprise and to attack while the enemy least expected it.

Apart from this, it was the intelligence, wisdom, and planning of the prophet, that all false claimants of prophet-hood were made to bust like a bubble.

Protection of the Holy Book:

Allah had promised that He will protect the Holy Quran but prophet‟s role in exercising this protection was to be played by the prophet himself. He was the means to the end. About this the prophet had already intituled a system. He urged believers:

“Those who can learn the Quran (Surahs) by heart, should do it, as much as they can do. Those who know how to write, should do the same. Not only this but he asked all to repeat and read out whatever was learnt and written in front of the prophet”.

The prophet had chosen Zayed Bin Sabit to write each and every word, verse and Surah, under the supervision of the prophet. Zayed kept it with him safely. During these last two months Zayed was asked to read out each line in front of the prophet, in order to remove any mistake. Abdullah Bin Masood also recited 70 Surah by heart and did this in the prophet‟s presence, so as to remove any errors.

Then Hazifa Bin Yamaan was taught the recital ( ) of Quran by the prophet. During his last days, prophet finally satisfied himself about his recital, and authorised him for corrections if any errors were noticed. He said:

“If there occurs any difference between the recital, then he was authorized to correct it”.

This was done as the prophet knew that Hazifa will have a long life and would also be associated with the ruling administration. Moreover people will also adhere to his opinion and advice. Therefore before his own death, the prophet repeatedly guided and instructed Hazifa in this matter.

Then the prophet handed over to AliA his personal collection of all written down Surahs of Quran. It was similar to what he had dictated to Zayed Bin Sabit, but arranged in chronological order of the Surah revelations. He had advised his followers to accept Ali‟s interpretation of Quran whenever differences arose. His sayings are numerous, for example:

Hadiths  “Ali is with the Quran, Quran is with Ali”. Rasool (saww). (accepted by all  “This is that Book (Quran), which imparts knowledge of all things”. Muslim schools of  “I am the city of knowledge and Ali is its gate”. thought).  “This is that Book (Quran), which is the source of wisdom”.  “I am that city of wisdom, where the spring of knowledge and wisdom falls; and Ali is the gate (entrance) to that city”.

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Besides AliA and the above mentioned companions, the prophet had taken pains to teach and tutor a large group of his selfless companions, who were called Ashab-e-Saffa. They formed his back-up plan for protection of Quran. He would summon them often, apart from the prayer times, to update their people. These companions of the prophet were a group of virtuous, righteous and selfless ( ). They had been trained and taught by the prophet personally. They lived and died for their Lord. They faced hunger, thirst and hardships of all seasons, just to remain close to the prophet and obtain knowledge.

Then there was a group of those slaves, who served the prophet and spent their lives begging for his company. They were also trained to uphold the cause of teachings of Quran and righteousness.

Until his illness allowed him, the prophet led the congregation at the mosque, kept on teaching the Book of Wisdom, purified their souls, reformed them and recited the holy verses before them.

This was what his great-great grandfather AbrahamA had prayed for: “O my Lord! (from my race) raise a prophet, who would recite your verses to them. Who would teach them the Book and give them wisdom. Who would mend and improve their lives”.

Domestic responsibilities:

In the biographies of the prophet it is mentioned that during these two months the prophet stayed in Medina, and spent much of his time among his companions and his home.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Maulana Shibly with reference to Sahee Bukhari and Sahee Muslim has written Page: 136 that: “After the Fajr prayers, till sunrise or as needed, the prophet remained in the mosque, and conversed with his companions. He would recite the Quran, would hear their problems and give advice for their solutions. He would share their joys and sorrows and would share decent and polite jokes. He would distribute stipends and help the needy with cash.

Then he would stay at his home until Zohr prayer and would do his personal work. After Asr prayer he would visit his various wives and sometimes his uncle‟s home. After Maghrib prayer he would pay short visits to his wives, and then would enter that house where he wanted to spend the night. Until Isha prayers he would make himself available for mutual conversations and talks.

In the centre of his houses was the house of his daughter FatimaA, which he visited often and no time was fixed for this visit. The prophet loved his grand children. They too loved him much.

Many a times his companions heard him saying: “Fatima is a part of me”. “My grandson Hassan is the messenger of peace and reconciliation. Me and Hussain are one”. “My this daughter FatimaA is the leader of all women of paradise”. 426

“Hassan and Hussain are leaders of the youth of paradise”.

Since the revelation of the verse of Purity ( ), prior to Fajr prayers while going to the Mosque, the prophet would stop by on FatimaA‟s door and touching it would say: “Salutation to you Ahl-e-Bait-Nabuwah ( )”.

The visit of the prophet in these homes, was not that of an ordinary person. These homes due to the prophet‟s blessings were centres of the Lord‟s praise:

Al-Quran (The light is lit) in houses of worship which God has allowed to be raised and Surah Al-Noor-24 Verse: 36 His name remembered in them. His praises are sung there morning and evening.

Among the wives of the prophet Umme SalmaR and AyeshaR lived long after the demise of the prophet. There are many Hadith narrated by them which is an indication of what they had learnt in prophet‟s company. This includes Ahadith about some future events, the knowledge of which he had as a prophet.

For example, they were informed about the tumult and the violence after his death, the usurped rule of Banu Ummya was also known to them. The prophet had also informed them about the tragedy of Karbala. So much so that the dust of Karbala which was given to the prophet by Angel GabrielA, was handed over to Umme SalmaR by the prophet, with the instructions to preserve it (she kept it in a bottle). The day at Asr time, when it turned red she knew that her grandson Hussain had been martyred and the last living member of the Pious Panjtan had left this world. (Panjtan: Prophet MuhammadS; his daughter FatimaA, his cousin and son-inlaw AliA; his grandsons HasanA and HussainA).

Illness and Death of the Holy Prophet:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 According to the research of Maulana Shibly, the prophet fell ill on 18th or 19th Pages: 109-110 of Saffar, he remained sick for nearly 13 days and died on Monday, the 1st of Rabbi-ul-Awwal 11th Hijri.

Abu-Muwayhibah the slave of the prophet stated that the prophet awoke him from sleep at midnight and asked him to accompany him to the grave-yard of Janat-ul-Baqee. There he prayed for the departed souls. Then he visited the graves of his uncle HamzaR and other martyrs of Uhad. When he returned home he had severe headache, this was the beginning of his illness. During this sickness he carried out his routine work for 9 days.

He bade farewell to the departing army under UsamaR, which marched out only to camp outside Medina as the elders in the army decided not to leave the prophet in this state of sickness, though it was his wish that they should leave as soon as possible.

The last week of his life the prophet spent in the house of AyeshaR, the main reason being that its door was in the middle of the mosque, making it easier for him to enter the mosque for prayers. 427

Secondly the house of his daughter FatimaA was near to it. All his wives served him and looked after him in his illness. FatimaA too was with him, praying for the health of her father. His uncle Abbas visited him many times during the day.

When he became very weak AliA and Fazal Ibn AbbasR helped him in his movements. They also took him to the mosque for prayers. These were the only people who nursed him during his illness.

Tareekh-e-Tabari Abu BakrR, Umer FarooqR and other of the prophet‟s companions were with the Page: 526 army of UsamaR. As the camp was outside the city, they kept on visiting the city

Seerat-un-Nabi-1/2 and the prophet. Their houses were situated at a distance from the mosque, so Pages: 306/113 they came turn by turn to visit the prophet. The prophet led the prayers until three days prior to his death.

He loved the Ansars and they loved him. During one of these days, he spoke about them: “O people! I bequeath you about the Ansar. Many more people will enter the fold of Islam, but my Ansar will go down lessening in number (with the passage of time). They had fulfilled their duties, now it is your turn to perform your duties towards them. Those amongst them who are virtuous should be respected and those who commit any mistake must be forgiven”.

Another day he said: “O people! Do not attribute Halal or Haram to me. I only permitted what is Halal, and forbade what is Haram, which my Lord Allah ordered in His Book”.

When he would return to his room (Hujra) he would find AyeshaR and FatimaA waiting for him. If FatimaA was not there then he would summon her. On her arrival, he would embrace her and would converse with her for some time. He would also shower his love on her kids.

One day FatimaA cried uncontrollably. The prophet embraced her and whispered something in her ear and she started smiling. AyeshaR asked her about this change. FatimaA said: “My father says, O my beloved daughter! Soon you will meet me in the next world. You will be the first amongst my family to meet me”.

By now the prophet had fulfilled all his duties and responsibilities but still there was something in his mind which disturbed him. He feared his followers will stray from the right path.

Sahee Bukhari It is stated with reference to Abdullah Ibne AbbasR, that whenever he narrated Chapter: this incidence, he would shed tears. He says. Four days prior to the death of the Death of Holy Prophet prophet, many elders both of the Muhajirin and Ansar were present in his room, when looking intently towards them the prophet said: Kiatb-ul-Ilm Chapter-1 “Bring paper, ink and pen, so that I may write down the instructions, which will Page: 22 deter you from being astray”.

Some people got up to obey, but Umer FarooqR stopped them by saying: “The prophet is overcome by his illness, he is delirious and is confused. We have the Holy Quran with us, it is sufficient for us, as it is the Book of Allah”.

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On this, difference of opinion arose amongst the people, they started arguing, some said: “Give the pen, paper and ink to the prophet, so that he may write”.

Others spoke in favour of UmerR‟s opinion. When voices rose and conflict developed, the prophet said angrily: “It is not permitted to create commotion in the presence of the prophet. Leave me alone”.

Saying this he turned away from them.

Abdullah Ibne AbbasR states that: “The misfortune is that, difference of opinion and the commotion prevented the prophet from writing the instructions”.

This Hadith has been narrated by Imam Bokhari in his book Sahee Bokhari in more than one place. Imam Muslim also in his Sahee Muslim, chapter Al-Wasaya, mentions it. Imam Hunmbl with reference to Ibne AbbasR speaks about the same hadith. However Allama Ibne Hujr in his Sawaeqae Muharqa, relates this incident in a different manner. (Ref: Chapter 9, Fasal 2, last line).

The prophet saw and heard. This was the second time, when the prophet‟s companions gave preference to their personal opinions over that of the prophet. Firstly the Osama Army did not departed and secondly the writing down of instructions was objected.

Even after this incident, prophet repeated what he had said earlier: “I am leaving behind two important things amongst you, One is the Divine Book, second my Ahle-e-Bait. Hold fast to the rope of God. If you don‟t do this you will lose the right path”.

This was his last will to his people; after it neither did he give any sermon, nor advice. When he felt better he would console his wives and ask them to be patient, and to follow the righteous path. Often he would summon his daughter and converse with her in a low tone, asking her to be patient. He would give his last advices to AliA, would foretell the hardships AliA would face in the future bravely and patiently. HassanA and HussainA were loved by him, and he specially showered his love on them. The prophet asked his wives specially AyeshaR and Umme SalmaR to take care of his grandsons. As a prophet, he was aware that these two will have a long life. During his illness whenever he remembered the future happenings of Karbala, he would weep.

He had handed over the dust of Karbala, to Umme SalmaR, which Angel GabrielA had brought to him. The prophet instructed Umme SalmaR: “O Umme Salma! When Hussain will leave for Karbala, any day (after his departure) if this dust turns Red at Asr prayer time, you should believe he has been martyred, and the last of the Pious Five has departed this earth”.

Thursday ended and after it three more days. On Monday early in the morning, he lifted the curtain of his Hujra, looked towards the mosque and then drew it back. This was the last moment that his companions saw him. The same morning he instructed AliA: “O Ali! The loan I had taken for the expenditure of the Usama‟s army, you should pay it back”.

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On that day all his wives along with his uncle AbbasA, FazalA Qasm Bin AbbasR, AliA, FatimaA, HassanA and HussainA were present in the Hujra. Outside it, women of Banu Hashim were present, and his slaves were restlessly awaiting. Some of companions too were present in the mosque.

Death and Funeral:

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Maulana Shibly writes, on that day as the morning turned into forenoon Pages: 115-116 prophet‟s condition deteriorated. He suffered pain and fainted many times. FatimaA felt his anguish and repeatedly moaned:

“O my father‟s how restless you are!”. Once the prophet opened his eyes and embracing his daughter, said: “O Fatima! Your father will be at ease after today”.

Daar Qutni AyeshaR narrates that the prophet called AliA and when he came, he took him Kitab-ul-Iqrar under his sheet and talked to him in a low tone. In this position he died. Muhib Tabari

Riyaadh-un-Nazra

Nahj-al-Balagha Ali says in the book Nahj-al-Balagha: Sermon: 195 “When the prophet died, his head was resting on my chest. As his pious soul left (Summary). his body, I moved my hands over my face, as a benediction.

I gave him his last ritual bath, and I felt many Angels helping me. All around his Hujra wailing and weeping sounds resounded. Angels visited in groups, one arrived and one left, they offered the funeral prayers, and I could hear their soft voices. This continued till we buried him in his grave”.

Seerat-un-Nabi-2 Maulana Shibly too writes that all rituals of burial were carried out by the Page: 117 prophet‟s close relatives. According to the Will of the prophet, he was buried in the Hujra of AyeshaR. AyeshaR narrates that:

“The prophet was not buried in a grave yard or in open ground, because in his last moments the prophet thought that his people could make his grave a worshipping place. In an open place it would be difficult to prevent them. So he was buried in my Hujra”. Maulana Shibly writes: “The burial arrangements were made on Tuesday”.

But this cannot be true, for all biographers and historians hold unanimous opinion that the prophet died in the last week of May or first week of June. Everybody is aware of the hot simmering summers of Arabia. The prophet died prior to Zohr prayers, how could it have been possible to preserve the body without any Mortuary till the next day?

Other historians and biographers have contested Maulana Shibli‟s opinion. The

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popular and accepted opinion is that: “The prophet was buried, the same day of his death”.

The details are: When the prophet died, Abu BakrR was at his home in Sakhaa neighbourhood which was a mile away from Masjid-e-Nabvi. Till his arrival, UmerR kept the announcement of the prophet‟s death at abeyance. He stood at the Hujra’s door with a drawn sword and told the companions of the prophet.

Seerat-un-Nabi “I will kill that person, who would say that the prophet is dead”. Page: 116 R R When Abu Bakr arrived, he calmed down Umer and then addressed the people:

“The departing of the prophet from this world was something which had to happen”. Then he recited following verses of the Quran:

Al-Quran Muhammad is only a prophet, and many a prophets have gone before him. So Surah Al-i-Imran-3 what if he dies or is killed. Will you turn back and go away in haste? But he Verse: 144 who turns back and goes away in haste will do no harm to God.

Al-Quran Verily you will die, and so will they. Surah Zumar-39 Verse: 30 After this speech, all calm down and believed in the death of the prophet.

But the version of historian Tabari is different. He says: When Abu BakrR heard about the death of the prophet he came to Medina and leaving his camel at the door of the mosque he went straight to the Hujra of AyeshaR (his daughter). Uncovering the face of the prophet he kissed him on his fore-head and said: “May my parents be sacrificed on you O exalted prophet, death which was your destiny did arrive, after today you will not taste death again”.

Then covering the prophet‟s face, he left the room. UmerR was addressing the people, as soon as they saw Abu BakrR, they gathered around him, then Abu BakrR addressed them: “O people! I warn those who worshipped MohammadS. They Must listen that, he is dead. Those who worshipped Allah, they should know He is Immortal, and Eternal”.

Then he recited the verses from Surah Al-i-Imran and Surah Zumar.

In the mean while someone informed them that Ansar were holding a meeting at Saqifa Bani Sa‟ida (the Ansar’s council Hall) in order to pledge their allegiance to Saad Bin Abada. Hearing this, Abu BakrR, Umer FarooqR and Abu Ubeida Ibne JarahR immediately left for the meeting place.

Fatah-ul-Bari-6 As they departed AliA continued with the Funeral preparations as per prophet‟s Page: 4 will. Now the problem arose of who would dig the grave? There were only two grave diggers in Medina, Abu Talha AnsariR and Abu Ubeida Inbne JarahR. The latter had accompanied Abu BakrR and UmerR, hence he lost the opportunity of

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sharing the burial rites of the prophet. Abu Talha AnsariR dug the grave. Those who were present there offered the burial prayer and the prophet of Allah was buried; in the same Hujra, where he had died. From amongst the Ansar only two were present i.e, Abu Talha AnsariR and Anus Bin KholyR, others were busy at the Council Hall.

Prior to the burial, AliA moaned:

Nahj-ul-Balagha “May my parents be sacrificed over you, O exalted prophet! With your death not Sermon: 232 only prophet-hood has come to an end but also the descent of Divine commands and revelations have ended. This had not happened ever before when prophets died. We all are aggrieved at your departure. If you had not prohibited wailing and ordered patience, then we would have wailed and cried till we had no tears left. Nothing could have been a remedy for our grief and sorrow, it would not have left our souls. But all our grief and wailing would have been nothing as compared to your loss. No one has authority over death, we all are helpless before it. Please remember us, and plead for us to the Almighty Lord”.

Prophet‟s legacy:

Al-Quran The Almighty Lord had sent prophet Muhammad as a sign of His Benevolence Surah Anbiya-21 to all the worlds ( ). Verse: 107

God had blessed him with best of moral faculties:

Al-Quran Surah Al-Qalm-68 He was born of Khulqe-Azim ( ). Verse: 4

He was thus the best of prophets; and not only that but also the last of the prophets

Al-Quran Muhammad is a prophet of God and the seal of the prophets Surah Ahzab-33 ( ). Verse: 40

After him neither any prophet will come nor any Book will descend. MuhammadS was thus sent by the Lord as the last link of the chain of prophets, and was to complete the process of providing guidance of the religion of God (Islam):

Al-Quran Today I have perfected your religion (Islam), and bestowed upon you my Surah Mai’da-5 favours in full, and have chosen Islam as your religion. Verse: 3 Prophet MuhammadS was not only a descendant of prophet AbrahamA, but was also a fruit of AbrahamA‟s prayers pleading Almighty Lord to grant him a prophet in his lineage who would teach 432 people the Book and the knowledge, who would teach them control of the “Self”, and who would “Reform” them. Prophet MuhammadS did all this superbly, but one peculiarity which distinguishes him from all other prophets is that with him ended the chain of divine prophets. When he died, the chapter of Prophet-hood closed as the “Religion of God” was perfected and completed.

Holy Quran stands witness to the fact, that all that the prophet said and acted upon was fundamentally based upon the three elements mentioned above. As Quran says, the Almighty Lord commanded:

Al-Quran (O Muhammad) arise and warn: Surah Muddassar-74 Glorify your Lord. Verses 2 to 7 Purify your raiments (outer body and inner self). Keep away from all abominations (idol-worship). Do not bestow favours in expectations of returns. Persevere in the way of your Lord.

His appeal was to humans, irrespective of creed or religion. For example in respect of Jews and Christians, Quran says about his role:

Al-Quran Those who follow the prophet, the ,messenger, the unlettered (the Ummi), whom Surah A’raaf-7 they find mentioned in writing in Torah and the Bible. He commands them: to Verse: 157 do what is good, he prevents them from evil, he makes lawful for them all good things, he forbids them what is foul, and he relieves them of their burdens and the yokes that lay upon them.

So those who believe in him and honour him and help him and follow the light

which has been sent down with him, they are the ones who achieve success.

Al-Quran Lest you grieve for what you missed or rejoice at what He has granted to you. Surah Hadid-57 God does not love arrogant boosters. Verse: 23

Al-Quran Verily God has enjoined justice ( ), the doing of good ( ), and giving Surah Nahl-16 to kindred ( ); and has forbidden lewdness ( ), evil ( ), Verse: 90 and rebellion ( ). He warns you so that you may remember.

God commanded the prophet for justice, doing good and giving to kindred ( - - ) and the prophet implemented this guidance such beautifully that every day (except some infidels) experienced healthy changes in their life. For example:  Their idol-worshipping was eliminated by the light of singularity of God ( ). Their hypocrisy was eliminated by love and selflessness.  Their ignorance was eliminated by knowledge.  Their barbarism was eliminated by peace and tranquillity.  Their blind faith on forefathers was eliminated by thoughtfulness and prudence.  Their greed and evil desires were eliminated by the light of guidance.

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Imam AliA said:

Extract from “O people of Allah! Follow the pious and virtuous prophet, for his personality is an Nahj-al-Balagha example for his followers and it is a cause of comfort and fortitude for those who Sermon: 158 are patient. One who follows his footsteps will be loved and liked by Allah. Many offered him worldly goods but he refused to accept them. When he learnt about the forbidden things he took them as forbidden. Whatever was regarded abject and vile by Allah was regarded the same by him. Whatever was stated as mean by his Lord, was the same for him.

If humans start liking those things which are forbidden by Allah and his prophet, and start disliking those which God has permitted, then it is enough to be counted as disobedience.

The followers should act in accordance to the acts and sayings of the prophet. Those who will follow his footsteps can only be the ones who are safe from destruction. Allah has described the prophet as a sign of the coming of doomsday, as a warner about the Divine Chastisement and the giver of good news about the paradise.

This is the greatest Divine favour that He sent towards us, His Messenger, one whom we all follow and obey and who is the greatest bounty for humanity.

Sons and daughters of the prophet:

Before we discuss this subject, first let us talk about the controversy that lies between the Sunni school of thought and Shia school on this subject.

The prophet married his first wife KhadijaR in 595 AD when he was 25 and KhadijaR was 40. However the prophet-hood was bestowed by the Almighty Lord on MuhammadS in 610 AD. Thus MuhammadS and KhadijaR spent 15 years of married life before the declaration of prophet-hood.

Sunni school of thought:

During this period of 15 years, KhadijaR bore four children:

1. QasimR (son), born in 597 AD, when prophet was 27. This son died at age 2. 2. ZainabR (daughter), born in 599 AD, when prophet was 29. She died in 7th Hijri. (When prophet-hood was declared, her age was 11 years). 3. RuqiyyaR (daughter), born in 601 AD, when prophet was 31. She died in 2nd Hijri. (When prophet-hood was declared, her age was 9 years). 4. Umme-KulsoomR (daughter), born in 603 AD, when prophet was 33. She died in 9th Hijri. (When prophet-hood was declared, her age was 7 years). 434

After declaration of prophet-hood, KhadijaR bore another two children:

5. AbdullahR (son), date of birth and date of death are not known, but he died young. 6. FatimaA (daughter), born on 611 AD when prophet was 41. She died in 11th Hijri. (she was born one year after the declaration of prophet-hood).

(Ref: Tafhim-ul-Quran by Maulana Maududi, Vol: 44, Page: 130).

After the prophet migrated to Medina, another son (IbrahimR) was born whose mother was Marya QubtiyaR. He was born on 8th Hijri after the prophet returned from conquest of Mecca. He died in 10th Hijri, at the age of 1½ years.

The three daughters born before declaration of prophet-hood were married by the prophet as follows:

 ZainabR was married to Abul A‟as bin Rabi‟ya.  RuqiyyaR was married to A‟tba, son of Abu Lahb.  Umme-KulsoomR was married to U‟taiba, son of Abu Lahb.

All the three men with whom the three girls were married were non-believers at the time of marriage. But when MuhammadS was bestowed with prophet-hood, and RuqiyyaR and Umme- KulsoomR also declared their Muslim faith, then Abu Lahb asked his sons to divorce them. Consequently they were divorced and came back to the house of KhadijaR. Later on, prophet married RuqiyyaR to UsmanR, and they both migrated to Abyssinia where they were granted asylum by the emperor of Abyssinia. After about 7 years when they returned to Medina, then RuqiyyaR died in 2nd Hijri. Prophet them married Umme-KulsoomR to UsmanR.

Shia Objection:

When prophet MuhammadS declared prophet-hood in 610 AD, the respective ages of ZainabR, RuqiyyaR, and Umme-KulsoomR were 11, 9 and 7. Certainly, prophet must have married them before declaration of prophet-hood as their husbands were non-believers. Therefore, their marriages must have taken place some years before the declaration of prophet-hood. Giving some allowance (perhaps the best allowance to support this case would be one year), the ages of the three girls at the time of their marriage then work out to be:

ZainabR was 10 years old at the time of her marriage. RuqiyyaR was 8 years old at the time of her marriage. Umme-KulsoomR was 6 years old at the time of her marriage.

It is hard to believe that the prophet married these girls at such tender ages.

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Shia school of thought contends that these three girls were not daughters of KhadijaR but she gave shelter to them and raised them like her own daughters for several years before her marriage to the prophet.

Besides, during MuhammadS‟s life as prophet, his love and respect for his daughter FatimaA had been an important part of his life, his traditions, and also of history. During this period, ZainabR and Umme-KulsoomR were also alive (ZainabR died in 7th Hijri and Umme-KulsoomR died in 9th Hijri) but neither traditions nor history show any signs of prophet displaying same love to them as for FatimaA. Moreover, there were two specific occasions in the life of prophet MuhammadS when he made a purposeful display of his off-springs, one was the Mubahila, and the other was the revelation of “Verses of purity ( )”. On both these occasions FatimaA was present, but ZainabR and Umme-KulsoomR were not, although both were alive.

Children born to KhadijaR from MuhammadS: (Shia viewpoint):

Shia school therefore believes that only the following children were born to KhadijaR from prophet MuhammadS:

1. QasimR (son), born before declaration of prophet-hood, died at age 2. 2. AbdullahR (son), birth not known, died after declaration of prophet-hood. 3. FatimaA (daughter), born after declaration of prophet-hood and died in 11th Hijri.

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