Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah

Hazrat Talha (ra) belonged to the Banu Taym bin Murrah tribe. His father’s name was Ubaidullah bin Uthman and the name of his mother was Sa‘bah (ra), who was the daughter of Abdullah bin Imad Hazrami and was the sister of Hazrat Alaa (ra) bin Hazrami. Hazrat Talha’s title was Abu Muhammad. The name of Hazrat Alaa (ra) bin Hazrami’s father was Abdullah bin Imad Hazrami.

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Introduction

Hazrat Alaa (ra) was originally from Hazr Maut and was the confederate of Harr bin Umayyah. The Holy Prophet (sa) had appointed Hazrat Alaa (ra) as the governor of Bahrain and he served as the governor until his demise. Hazrat Alaa (ra) passed away in the fourteenth year after Hijra during the Khilafat of Hazrat Umar (ra).

One of his brothers, Aamir bin Hazrami, who had not accepted Islam, was killed during the Battle of Badr. Another brother of his, Amr bin Hazrami was the first idolater to be killed by a Muslim. Furthermore, his possessions were the first to be acquired by the Muslims as part of the spoils of war. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 160, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 4, p. 71, al-Alaa bin al-Hazrami (ra), Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2008)*

His Maternal Uncles

Hazrat Talha’s (ra) ancestry connects with the Holy Prophet (sa) from the seventh generation through Murrah bin Ka‘b and it connects with Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) at the fourth generation. His father, Ubaidullah did not witness the era of Islam, however his mother lived a long life. She had the opportunity to accept the Holy Prophet (sa) and was granted the honour of being amongst the companions of the Holy Prophet (sa). She had accepted Islam prior to the migration to Medina. 

*(Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, p. 128)*


Lineage & Parents

Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah did not participate in the Battle of Badr, however the Holy Prophet (sa) gave him a share from the spoils of war. The reason he did not participate in the Battle of Badr is that the Holy Prophet (sa) was aware that the caravan of the Quraish had departed from Syria and subsequently sent Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah and Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid 10 days prior to his own departure, in order to gather information about this caravan. Both of them set off and reached Haura, where they stayed until the caravan passed by. Haura was a resting place situated along the Red Sea, where caravans travelling between the Hijaz and Syria would pass by.

Nevertheless, the Holy Prophet (sa) came to know of this before Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Saeed (ra) returned. The Holy Prophet (sa) assembled the companions and set off in pursuit of this caravan of the Quraish. However, the caravan escaped taking another route, i.e., it quickly set off on a path along the coast. The people of the caravan continuously walked day and night in order to escape from those who were in search of them; i.e., the caravan of the disbelievers from Mecca. Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah and Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid set off towards Medina in order to inform the Holy Prophet (sa) of this caravan. They were unaware that the Holy Prophet (sa) had already departed for the Battle of Badr. They reached Medina on the same day the battle between the Quraish and the Holy Prophet (sa) took place in Badr. Both of them set off from Medina in order to present themselves before the Holy Prophet (sa) and met with him at Turbaan, while he was returning from Badr. Turbaan is a valley at a distance of nineteen miles from Medina, which has an abundance of sweet water wells. The Holy Prophet (sa) stayed there on his journey towards the Battle of Badr.

Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Saeed (ra) did not participate in the Battle of Badr. However, as mentioned previously, the Holy Prophet (sa) gave them a share of the spoils of this battle. Thus, the two of them are counted amongst those who participated in the Battle of Badr. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 162, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah, Fi Daw al-Quran Vol. 2, p. 123, Dar-ul-Qalam, Damascus) (Farhang Sirat, p. 75, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi, 2003)*


Reconnaissance for the Battle of Badr

Hazrat Talha (ra) participated in the Battle of Uhud and all other battles alongside the Holy Prophet (sa). He was also present during the treaty of Hudaybiyyah. He was among the ten people who the Holy Prophet (sa) had given the glad tidings of paradise in their lifetimes. He was also among the first eight people to accept Islam and among the five who accepted Islam through the preaching of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). He was among the six members of the Shura Committee established by Hazrat Umar (ra). He was among those blessed individuals whom the Holy Prophet (sa) was pleased with at the time of his demise. 

*(al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 2, p. 317, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul- Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut) (al-Isabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 3, p. 430, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1995)*


Noble Achievements

Yazid bin Rumaan relates that once, Hazrat Uthman (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah followed Hazrat Zubair bin Awwam (ra) and when they reached the Holy Prophet (sa), he conveyed the message of Islam to them and recited the Holy Quran before them, informed them of the rights within Islam and promised them the honour they were to receive from God Almighty. Hazrat Uthman (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra) then accepted Islam and testified to the truthfulness of the Holy Prophet (sa). Hazrat Uthman (ra) then said, “O Messenger (sa) of Allah, I have just returned from Syria. When, on my return, I reached my intended place of stay between Ma‘an (this is the name of a place situated just before Mautah; it was at the time of the battle of Mautah that the Muslims reached this place when they came to realise that the Byzantines had prepared an army 200,000 strong to combat them and so, the Companions (ra) stayed there for two days) and Zarqah (this too is a place near Ma‘an), we set up camp there. As we were sleeping, we heard a caller announce, ‘O ye who sleep, awaken! Ahmad has appeared in Mecca!’ We then returned [to Mecca] from and heard news regarding you.” 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 40, Uthman bin Affan, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2012) (Farhang Sirat, p. 279, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi, 2003) (Mu‘jamul Buldan, Vol. 3, p. 173, al-Zurqaa al-Maktabah al-Asriyyah, Beirut, 2014)*

Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah relates, “I was in Busra (which is an ancient town of Syria where the Holy Prophet (sa) also stayed when he went there to trade goods with his paternal uncle) when a monk was proclaiming from his Sawma‘ah (i.e., synagogue), ‘Find out if there is anyone from among the travelling merchants who has come from Mecca.’ I told him that I was from there, so he asked, ‘Has Ahmad really appeared?’ I replied, ‘Which Ahmad do you refer to?’ He said, ‘The son of Abdullah bin Muttalib. This is the month in which he is to appear, and he will be the final Prophet; his advent will be in Mecca and his migration will be to a place with date-fields, where the land would be rocky, barren and saline. Do not forsake him.’” Hazrat Talha (ra) states, “Everything he said deeply affected me, so I departed swiftly and reached Mecca. I asked the people if anything new had transpired, to which they answered, ‘Yes, Muhammad (sa) bin Abdullah, the Ameen [trustworthy] (the title given to the Holy Prophet (sa) by the Meccans) has made a claim to prophethood and Ibn Abi Qahafah (the title of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra)) has accepted him.’ Hence, I left and went straight to Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) and asked if he had truly become his follower. He answered, ‘Yes, and you should also go to him and accept him as he calls towards the truth.’”

Hazrat Talha (ra) then related to Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) everything the monk had stated, subsequently he took Hazrat Talha (ra) to the Holy Prophet (sa). Hazrat Talha (ra) then accepted Islam and informed the Holy Prophet (sa) in regard to what the monk had said. The Holy Prophet (sa) was pleased to hear this. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 161, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Acceptance of Islam

When Hazrat Talha (ra) accepted Islam, Naufal bin Khuwailid bin Adawiyah tied him and Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) with a rope, which is why both of them are known by the title Qareenain i.e., the two fellow companions. Naufal was known in Mecca for his harsh treatment. Among those who tied them up was Uthman bin Ubaidullah, the brother of Hazrat Talha(ra). He tied them up to prevent them from seeing the Holy Prophet (sa) and in order for them to relinquish their faith in Islam. Imam Baihaqi has written that the Holy Prophet (sa) prayed, “O Allah, protect them from the harm of Adawiyah.” 

*(Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, pp. 129-130)*

Hazrat Mas‘ud (ra) bin Khirash relates, “One day I was walking between Safa and Marwa, when I saw a large number of people following a young man whose hands were tied to his neck. I enquired as to who this was. The people told me that this was Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah, who had given up his faith and his mother Sa‘bah was following behind, whilst cursing him with rage.” 

*(At-Tarikh as-Saghir li Imam Bukhari, Vol. 1, p. 113, Dar-ul-Ma’rifah, Beirut)*

Qareenain - The Two Companions

Abdullah bin Sa‘d relates from his father that when the Holy Prophet (sa) was migrating to Medina, he reached Kharraz (this is the name of a valley situated near Hijaz, and it is also said that it is one of the valleys of Medina). When he was leaving Kharraz, he met Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah in the morning, who was part of the caravan returning from Syria. They gave the Holy Prophet (sa) and Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) Syrian clothes to wear and informed the Holy Prophet (sa) that the people of Medina had been eagerly awaiting his arrival for a long time. The Holy Prophet (sa) then went forth with a greater pace, whilst Hazrat Talha (ra) made his way to Mecca. When he completed his work there, he later migrated with the family of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) and reached Medina. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 161, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Mu’jamul Buldan, Vol. 2, p. 400, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut)*


Migration to Medina

When Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) accepted Islam in Mecca, the Holy Prophet (sa) established a bond of brotherhood between them prior to the migration. After the Muslims migrated to Medina, the Holy Prophet (sa) established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansari (ra). However, according to another narration, it is reported that the bond of brotherhood was established between Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid and according to yet another narration, it was established between Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Ubayy (ra) bin Ka‘b. After migrating to Medina, Hazrat Talha (ra) stayed at the house of Hazrat Asad (ra) bin Zurarah. 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 85, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 161, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Bond of Brotherhood

Owing to some of the financial sacrifices offered by Hazrat Talha (ra), the Holy Prophet (sa) had conferred him with the title of “Fayyaz” [the generous one]. On one occasion, during the Ghazwah of Dhi Qard, the Holy Prophet (sa) walked past a fountain and enquired about it. The Holy Prophet (sa) was informed that its name was Bisan and that its water was salty. The Holy Prophet (sa) replied, “No, in fact its name is Nu‘man and its water is sweet and pure.” Subsequently, Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah bought the fountain and donated it and thereupon, its water became sweet. When Hazrat Talha (ra) came before the Holy Prophet (sa) to relate this incident, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated, “Talha, you are extremely Fayyaz (i.e., generous)”. Thereafter, he was known by the title of Fayyaz.

Musa bin Talha relates from his father, Talha, that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophet (sa) gave Hazrat Talha (ra) the title, “Talha-tul-Khair”. On the occasion of Tabuk and Dhi Qard, he was granted the title, “Talha-tul-Fayyaz”. On the occasion of Ghazwah Hunayn, the Holy Prophet (sa) gave him the title, “Talha-tul-Jud” (i.e., one who is generous and openhearted). 

*(al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 3, p. 478, bab yudhkaru fihi Sifatuhu al-Batinah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002) (Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 85, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003)*


Titles

Sa‘ib bin Yazid relates that he spent time with Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah, whilst travelling and also at home, and there was no one who was more generous than Talha (ra) in regard to granting money, clothes and food to others. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 167, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Generosity

On the day of the Battle of Uhud, at a time when the Muslims had seemingly suffered defeat, the Holy Prophet (sa) took Bai‘at [oath] from a party among his companions(ra) to pledge on the condition of offering their lives. Subsequently, the companions (ra) stood resolutely and risked their lives in order to defend the Holy Prophet (sa) to the point that some of them were martyred. Amongst those who took the Bai‘at were Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Sa‘d (ra), Hazrat Sahl (ra) bin Hunaif and Hazrat Abu Dujana (ra). 

*(al-Isabah Fi Tamyeez al-Sahabah, Vol. 3, p. 431, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2005)*


The Oath at the Battle of Uhud

On the day of the Battle of Uhud, Hazrat Talha (ra) took part in the battle alongside the Holy Prophet (sa). He was among those who stood resolutely with the Holy Prophet (sa) and pledged on the condition of offering their lives. Malik bin Zuhair fired an arrow in the direction of the Holy Prophet (sa) but Hazrat Talha (ra) protected the Holy Prophet’s (sa) blessed face with his hand. The arrow struck him on his little finger which consequently became incapacitated. When the first arrow struck him, he let out a small cry due to the immense pain. Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated, “If he had recited Bismillah [in the name of Allah], he would have entered paradise in a manner that people would be witnessing it before their very eyes.” In one of the books of history, it further states that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, an idolater twice struck a blow to Hazrat Talha’s (ra) head; once when he was coming towards him and the second time when he was turning away from him. He lost a lot of blood as a result of this. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, pp. 162-163, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


The Hand of Talha

This same account has been mentioned in another narration in Sirat al-Halabiyyah. Qais bin Abu Haazim relates that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, he saw the state of the hand of Hazrat Talha (ra) which had become severely withered as he had placed it in front of the Holy Prophet (sa) to protect him from the arrows. According to one narration, he lost so much blood after an arrow pierced his hand that he lost consciousness. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) sprinkled water on him and he eventually regained consciousness and even then immediately enquired about the Holy Prophet’s (sa) condition. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) informed him that the Holy Prophet (sa) was fine and it was the Holy Prophet (sa) who had sent him to see him. Hazrat Talha (ra) replied:

اَلْحَمْدُ لِلّٰہِ کُلُّ مُصِیْبَۃٍ بَعْدَہٗ جَلَلٗ

“All praise be to Allah! After knowing that the Holy Prophet (sa) is fine, every hardship becomes insignificant.” 

*(al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, p. 324, Ghazwah Uhud, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)*


The Hand of Talha (II)

The account of this battle is also recorded in another tradition from a source of history. Hazrat Zubair (ra) relates that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, the Holy Prophet (sa) was wearing two chain armours. Owing to the weight of the armour the Holy Prophet (sa) was wearing and from weakness after having lost a lot of blood from the injuries he had sustained to his head and face – this account is relating to after the battle had concluded – the Holy Prophet (sa) was not able to climb a rock. The Holy Prophet (sa) made Hazrat Talha (ra) kneel down and placed his foot on him and ascended onto the rock. Hazrat Zubair (ra) narrates that he heard the Holy Prophet (sa) state, “Talha (ra) has made paradise incumbent upon himself.” 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 85, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, p. 321, Ghazwah Uhud, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)*

In another narration, it states that Hazrat Talha (ra) had a limp in one of his legs and as a result of this, he could not walk properly. When he lifted the Holy Prophet (sa), he made every effort to ensure he placed every step carefully and walked straight so that owing to his limp, the Holy Prophet (sa) would not experience any discomfort. After this, he completely recovered from his limp. 

*(al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, p. 322, Ghazwah Uhud, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)*


Kneeling for the Holy Prophet (sa)

Aisha and Umm-e-Ishaq, who were the daughters of Hazrat Talha (ra), state that on the day of the Battle of Uhud, their father sustained 24 injuries, among which there was a large wound to the head and one of the blood vessels in his leg had been cut. Also, one of his fingers had become incapacitated and the rest of his body was full of wounds and he was in a state of semi-consciousness.

The Holy Prophet (sa) had also sustained injuries; his front two teeth had broken and was also semi-conscious due to the many injuries sustained to his blessed countenance. Hazrat Talha (ra) carried the Holy Prophet (sa) on his back and walked backwards and whenever he encountered an idolater, he would fight against them and continued to walk in this way till they reached a valley and seated the Holy Prophet (sa) with his support. This is a reference from al-Tabqaat-ul-Kubra. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 163, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Defending the Holy Prophet (sa) Despite Injuries

On the day of the Battle of Uhud, Khalid bin Waleed took the Muslims by surprise and launched a sudden attack on them, causing them to disperse. Based on various narrations, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has related these aforementioned incidents in further detail. His narration illustrates an astonishing account of the level of steadfastness and sacrifice of Hazrat Talha (ra). Even though this was evident in the earlier accounts, but nonetheless the details of this account he has related are as follows:

“A few companions rushed to the Holy Prophet (sa) and formed a ring around him. They could not have been more than thirty in total. The Meccan army attacked this ring fiercely, where the Holy Prophet (sa) was standing. One by one, the Muslims in the ring fell under the blows of Meccan swordsmen. Aside from the Meccans who were with swords, from the hill, the archers sent volleys of arrows towards the Holy Prophet (sa). Upon witnessing that the enemy was relentlessly firing arrows, at that time, Talha, one of the Quraysh and the Muhajirin (Meccan Muslims who had taken refuge in Medina), saw that the enemy arrows were all directed to the face of the Prophet (sa). He stretched out his hand and held it up against the Prophet’s (sa) face. Arrow after arrow struck Talha’s (ra) hand, yet this brave and valiant warrior did not allow his hand to move. With each shot, Talha’s hand was pierced through. Ultimately it was completely mutilated and Talha (ra) lost his hand.

“Many years later, during the time of the Fourth Khalifa of Islam, when internal dissensions had raised their head, Talha (ra) was tauntingly described by an enemy as the handless Talha. One companion replied, ‘Handless, yes, but do you know where he lost his hand? At the Battle of Uhud, in which he raised his hand to shield the Prophet’s (sa) face from the enemy’s arrows.’ Long after the Battle of Uhud someone asked Talha (ra), ‘Did not your hand hurt under the arrow shots and the pain make you cry in anguish?’ Talha (ra) replied, ‘Indeed it hurt me, and it almost made me cry in anguish, but I resisted both because I knew that if my hand shook even slightly, it would expose the Prophet’s (sa) face to the volley of enemy arrows.’” 

*(Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwarul Ulum, Vol. 20, p. 250)*


Steadfastness & Sacrifice

On the occasion of Ghazwah Hamra-ul-Asad, whilst pursuing the enemy, the Holy Prophet (sa) met Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah. “Talha, where are your weapons?” asked the Holy Prophet (sa). Despite the fact that at the time, Hazrat Talha (ra) had sustained nine wounds to his chest alone from the Battle of Uhud, however he submitted that they were nearby and then quickly went and got hold of his weapons. There were a total of over 70 wounds on his entire body. Hazrat Talha (ra) relates that he was more concerned about the Holy Prophet’s (sa) injuries than his own. He states that the Holy Prophet (sa) came to him and asked where he had seen the enemy. He replied that he had seen them in the low ground area. The Holy Prophet (sa) states that he also thought the same and stated, “As far as the Quraish are concerned, they will never have the opportunity to act in this manner again to the point that that Allah the Almighty shall grant us victory over Mecca through our hands.” 

*(al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 2, pp. 350-351, Ghazwah Uhud, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)*


Passion for Defending the Holy Prophet (sa)

On the occasion of the Battle of Tabuk, the Holy Prophet (sa) learnt of the news that some of the hypocrites were gathering at the house of a Jew named Suwailam, which was near Jasum. Jasum was also known as Bir-e-Jasim, which was in the direction of Syria near Ratij and was a well that belonged to Abu Haitham bin Tayyihan. The water of this well was of extremely good quality and the Holy Prophet (sa) also drank from it. In any case, they were all gathering at his house and he was conspiring against the Holy Prophet (sa) by urging them to not go along with him for battle to Tabuk. The Holy Prophet (sa) sent Hazrat Talha (ra), along with some other companions, towards his house and instructed them to set Suwailam’s house alight. Hazrat Talha (ra) acted accordingly. During this, Zihak bin Khalifa broke his leg whilst trying to escape from the back of the house. Similarly, the other men also fled. 

*(al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 517, Ghazwah Tabuk, Maktabah Matba’ah Mustafa Albani, Egypt, 1955) (Farhang Sirat, p. 84, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi, 2003)*


Dealing with the Hypocrites

Hazrat Ali (ra) relates that he clearly recalls that he heard the Holy Prophet (sa) say that Talha (ra) and Zubair (ra) will be his neighbours in paradise. 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 86, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003)*


The Prophet's (sa) Neighbours in Paradise

Among those who remained behind from travelling for the Battle of Tabuk was Hazrat Ka‘b (ra) bin Malik. Consequently, he was boycotted and after 40 days, Allah the Almighty accepted his repentance and announced his forgiveness. When he came to the mosque to present himself before the Holy Prophet (sa), it was Hazrat Talha (ra) who came forward and met Hazrat Ka‘b (ra) bin Malik and congratulated him. Apart from Hazrat Talha (ra), no one else stood up from the gathering and Hazrat Ka‘b (ra) stated that he would never forget this kind gesture of Hazrat Talha (ra). 

*(Roshan Sitarey az Ghulam Bari Saif Sahib, Vol. 2, p. 145)*


A Kind Gesture on Hazrat Ka'b (ra) bin Malik's Forgiveness

Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid states, “I can bear witness regarding nine people who were given glad tidings of paradise, and even if I mention the tenth person, I would not be wrong to do so.” He was asked how this was possible, to which he replied, “We were in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa) on mount Hira when all of a sudden it began to shake. Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) said, ‘O Hira! Steady yourself! For there is none upon this mount except for a Prophet, Siddiq [truthful] and Shaheed [a martyr].’” Hazrat Saeed (ra) was asked who those people were, to which he replied, “The Holy Prophet (sa), Abu Bakr (ra), Umar (ra), Uthman (ra), Ali (ra), Talha (ra), Zubair (ra), Sa‘d (ra) and Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf.” These were the nine men [who were given tidings of paradise] When he was asked about who was the tenth person, Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid paused for a while and then said: “It is I”. 

*(Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Abwab al-Manaqib, Bab Manaqib Abi al-A‘war…, Hadith 3757)*


Glad Tidings of Paradise

Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Jubair narrates, “The status and conduct of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra), Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) and Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf and Hazrat Saeed (ra) bin Zaid was such that during battles, they would stand right before the Holy Prophet (sa) and fight and during the prayers, they would stand right behind him.” 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 2, p. 478, Saeed bin Zaid, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003)*


Immense Love for the Holy Prophet (sa)

Hazrat Jabir (ra) bin Abdullah narrates that the Holy Prophet (sa) once said, “Whosoever wishes to see a martyr in person, they ought to see Talha bin Ubaidullah.”



A Martyr in Person

Hazrat Musa bin Talha (ra) and Hazrat Isa bin Talha (ra), narrate on the authority of their father, Hazrat Talha bin Ubaidullah (ra) that the Companions of the Holy Prophet (sa) would say that a Bedouin once came to the Holy Prophet (sa) and asked who were the people referred to in the verse of the Quran:

مَنْ قَضٰى نَحْبَہٗ

“There are some of them who have fulfilled their vow.”

Initially upon asking, the Holy Prophet (sa) did not answer. The Bedouin asked for the second time, but the Holy Prophet (sa) did not answer and again upon asking for the third time, the Holy Prophet (sa) remained silent.

Hazrat Talha (ra) stated, “I entered through the door of the mosque and at the time I was wearing a green attire. When the Holy Prophet (sa) saw me, he asked, ‘Where is the questioner who asked about the people referred to in the verse,  مَنْ قَضٰى نَحْبَہٗ   (i.e., there are some of them who have fulfilled their vow)?” The Bedouin replied, “It was I, O Messenger (sa) of Allah.” Hazrat Talha (ra) then said, “The Holy Prophet (sa) pointed towards me and said; he is one of the people regarding whom it is said, مَنْ قَضٰى نَحْبَہٗ.” 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 86, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut)*


One who Fulfilled his Vow

Abdur Rahman bin Uthman states, “On one occasion, we were with Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah in a state of Ihram [the intention to perform Umrah or Hajj]. One person brought a bird and presented it as an offering. At the time, Hazrat Talha (ra) was resting. Some of us ate from it, while others abstained from eating it. When Hazrat Talha (ra) woke up he agreed with the action of those who ate the offering and said, ‘We also ate the offerings that were hunted by others whilst in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa).’” 

*(Musnad Ahmad bin Hanbal, Vol. 3, p. 7, Musnad Abu Muhammad Talha bin Ubaidillah, Hadith 1383, Mu‘assisatul Risalah, 2001)*

Aslam, the freed slave of Hazrat Umar (ra) narrates, “Hazrat Umar (ra) saw Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah wearing two garments that had been dyed using clay, despite the fact that he was in a state of Ihraam. Hazrat Umar (ra) asked, ‘O Talha! What is the meaning of these clothes?’ (since he had dyed his clothes). He replied, ‘O Amir-ul-Momineen [Leader of the believers]! I have dyed them in clay.’ Hazrat Umar (ra) replied, ‘O ye Companions! You all are leaders and people will follow your conduct. If an ignorant one sees you wearing these clothes, he will say that Talha (ra) wears coloured clothes in a state of Ihram.’” i.e regardless of whichever colour was used, people could raise an allegation that instead of wearing white clothes, he wore clothes that were coloured. In another narration, the following words are found in addition to the aforementioned Hadith that Hazrat Umar (ra) stated, “The best clothes to wear in a state of Ihram are white, therefore do not place other people in doubt regarding this matter.”



Guidance on Clothing Whilst in a State of Ihram

Hazrat Hassan (ra) relates that Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah sold a piece of his land to Hazrat Uthman (ra) bin Affan for 700,000 dirhams. When Hazrat Uthman (ra) paid the amount, Hazrat Talha (ra) took the money home. He thought to himself that if one has this amount of money at home, no one knows what God Almighty has decreed with regards to life and death. Thus, throughout the night, with the help of others, they went around the streets of Medina and gave money to those in need. When day broke, Hazrat Talha (ra) did not have even one dirham left from this amount. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, pp. 164-165, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (al-bidayatu wa al-Nihayah li Ibn Atheer, Vol. 4, Ch. 7, p. 208, 35A.H., Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2001)*

Ibn Jarir narrates that Hazrat Talha (ra) once met Hazrat Uthman (ra) when he was leaving the mosque. Hazrat Talha (ra) said, “I have 50,000 dirhams that I owe to you, kindly send someone to collect it” (he may have borrowed the amount off him in the past, and now had the money to pay him back). Hazrat Uthman (ra) replied, “I gave that to you as a gift owing to your kindness.” 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, pp. 167-168, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Exemplary Generosity

Hazrat Talha (ra) was martyred in Jang-e-Jamal [Battle of the Camel]. With regard to this, there is a narration by Qais bin Abi Hazim in which he states:

“On the day of Jang-e-Jamal, Marwan bin Hakam shot an arrow which hit Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah in the knee, piercing a blood vessel. When he would apply pressure on the wound, the blood would stop, but when he would leave it, blood would gush out. Hazrat Talha (ra) then said, ‘By God! We have not experienced their arrows as of yet.’ He then said, ‘Leave my wound, as this arrow was sent by God Almighty!’” Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah was martyred on 10 Jumad al-Thani, 36 AH, during Jang-e-Jamal. At the time of his martyrdom, Hazrat Talha (ra) was 64 years old, whilst according to another narration he was 62 years old. 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 88, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut)*

Martyrdom

Saeed bin Musayyib narrates that a man was once speaking ill of Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra). Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Malik, i.e., Hazrat Sa‘d bin Abi Waqas stopped him, saying, “Do not revile my brothers,” however, the man did not desist. Hazrat Sa‘d stood up and offered two rak‘ah [unit] of prayer and offered the following supplication, “O Allah! If these things that he is saying are a means of incurring Your wrath, then send down your chastisement upon him in front of me so that he can be a lesson to others.” Thus, as soon as this individual left the gathering, a camel was charging towards him. The camel caught him in a rocky terrain and throwing him underneath, crushed him, thereby killing him. The narrator states that the people went to Hazrat Sa‘d saying, “O Abu Ishaq! Rejoice for your prayer has been accepted.” 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 88, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut)*


God's Chastisement to those who Speak ill of him

Ali bin Zaid narrates on the authority of his father that one person saw Hazrat Talha (ra) in a dream who appeared to him and said to change the location of his grave, as the water disturbed him greatly. He appeared to him in the dream again and saw the same dream on three consecutive occasions. That person came to Hazrat ibn Abbas (ra) and related his dream. When they went to his grave, the part of his body that was immersed in the ground had become green due to the water. Thus, the people moved Hazrat Talha’s (ra) body and buried him in another place. The narrator states, “It is as if I can still witness the camphor that was on his eyes, which was completely unchanged. The only change was his hair that had moved from their place. The people bought one of the houses of Hazrat Abu Bakrah for 10,000 dirhams and buried Hazrat Talha (ra) there.” 

*(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 3, p. 88, Talha bin Ubaidillah Quraishi, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut)*


A Dream Regarding the Changing of his Grave

Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah would earn 400,000 to 500,000 dinars from his different farms in Iraq. He would earn crops from the lands in different areas of Saraat, which was a mountainous region similar to an Island, to the west of the Arab peninsula and spanned from north to south. It was also known as Jabal as-Saraat. He would earn at least 10,000 dinar from the grain of this area and also from other lands he owned. There was not a single poor person from among the Banu Taim whose family did not benefit from the wealth of Hazrat Talha (ra) and whose widows were not married from that wealth and whose needy were not granted assistance, i.e., he would help the poor and would pay the debts of those who were unable to pay them. Moreover, each year when he would earn from his produce, he would send 10,000 dirham to Hazrat Aisha (ra). 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 166, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990) (Farhang Sirat, p. 147, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi, 2003)*

Hazrat Muwaiyyah (ra) asked Musa (ra) bin Talha, “How much wealth did Abu Muhammad (i.e., Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah) leave behind?” He replied, “2.2 million dirham and 200,000 dinar.” All of his wealth was earned from the various lands he owned. 

*(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 166, Talha bin Ubaidillah, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*


Earnings & Wealth

Prior to his demise, Hazrat Umar (ra) formed a committee for the election of Khilafat. With regard to this, there is a detailed account found in Sahih Bukhari:

“When the time of Hazrat Umar’s (ra) demise was near, the people said to him, ‘O Leader of the Faithful! Appoint a successor after you as part of your will.’ Hazrat Umar (ra) said, ‘I do not find anyone more suitable for the station of Khilafat than the following persons whom the Holy Prophet (sa) had been pleased with before he passed away’. Then Hazrat Umar (ra) mentioned the names of Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) and Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf and said, ‘Abdullah bin Umar (ra) will be a witness to you, but he will not be entitled to the station of Khilafat. This was said in order to grant comfort to Abdullah bin Umar (ra). If Khilafat is granted to Sa‘d (ra), then he will be Khalifa otherwise whoever becomes the Khalifa should continue to seek assistance from Sa‘d because I have not removed him from his position owing to any incompetence or dishonesty on his part.’

Hazrat Umar (ra) added, ‘I recommend that my successor takes care of the early Muhajireen [those Muslims who migrated to Medina]; to know their rights and to protect their honour. I also urge to show kindness to the Ansar, for they allowed faith to enter their homes in Medina even before the arrival of the Muhajireen. I recommend that he should accept their good works, and I recommend that he should do good to all the people of the towns, as they are the protectors of Islam and the source of wealth and a means of frustrating the enemy. I also recommend that nothing be taken from them except from their surplus with their consent.

I also recommend that he do good to the Arab Bedouins, as they are the natives of Arabia and they make up the core following of Islam. He should take that from among their possessions which they are not in need of and distribute it amongst their needy. I also recommend him concerning those people who are under the protection of Allah and His Messenger (sa); to fulfil the covenants that have been established with them and to defend them and not to overburden them with what is beyond their ability.’ When Hazrat Umar (ra) passed away, we walked out whilst carrying him. Abdullah bin Umar (ra) greeted Hazrat Aisha (ra) and said, ‘Umar bin al-Khattab seeks permission to enter.’ Hazrat Aisha (ra) said, ‘Bring him in.’ He was brought in and buried beside his two companions.

When he was buried, the individuals who were named by Hazrat Umar (ra) gathered together. Abdur Rahman(ra) then said, ‘Select any three candidates among you for Khilafat.’ Hazrat Zubair (ra) said, ‘I give up my right to vote to Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf.’ Abdur Rahman then said to Hazrat Uthman (ra) and Hazrat Ali (ra), ‘‘Whichever of you withdraws their name, we will entrust him with the responsibility [in regards to who will be granted leadership] and Allah and Islam will be their guardian and Allah Almighty will choose the one Who He deems most worthy.’ Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) said, ‘Will you both leave this matter to me, and I take Allah as my Witness that I will not choose, but the better of you?’ Both of them agreed. So Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) took the hand of one of them and said, ‘You are related to Allah’s Messenger (sa) and you hold a lofty status within Islam, which you are aware of. I ask you by Allah to promise that if I select you as our leader will you do justice? And if I select Uthman (ra) as our leader, will you listen to him and obey him?’ Then Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) took the other aside and said the same to him. When Hazrat Abdur Rahman secured this covenant from both of them, he then said, ‘O Uthman (ra)! Extend your hand.’ Thus, Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) took the pledge of allegiance followed by Hazrat Ali (ra) and the members within the household also came and pledged their allegiance.” 

*(Kitabul Fazail Ashabin Nabi, Hadith 3700)*

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Hazrat Umar's (ra) Demise & Hazrat Uthman's (ra) Election

This narration is found in Bukhari. With regard to the election of Hazrat Uthman (ra) as Khalifa, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has stated the following:

“When Hazrat Umar (ra) was injured and realised that his demise was imminent, he nominated six persons and advised them to elect the Khalifa from among themselves. They included Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf, Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Abi Waqas, Hazrat Zubair (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra). In addition to them, he included Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar(ra) as an advisor, but did not declare him entitled to Khilafat. He also admonished that these people should give their verdict within three days, and Suhaib (ra) should lead the prayer during that period of time.

“He appointed Miqdad bin al-Aswad (ra) to oversee the consultation and election process and directed him to gather the Electoral College at one place and to guard them. He issued more directions, the people should take the Bai‘at of the person who is elected by the majority of votes, and if any one declines to do so, then he should be killed. If there be three votes on each side, then Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar (ra) would recommend who the Khalifa should be. If the members of Electoral College do not agree to the decision of Abdullah bin Umar (ra), then the person favoured by Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf should be appointed as Khalifa.

“These five companions discussed this matter (as Talha (ra) was not in Medina at that time) but could not come to any conclusion. After a lengthy discussion, Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf asked if anyone wanted to withdraw his name, but all of them remained quiet. On this, Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf withdrew his name, then Hazrat Uthman (ra) withdrew his name and then two others did the same. Hazrat Ali (ra) remained quiet, however he then took a pledge from Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf that he (i.e., Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra)) would be completely impartial, and entrusted the responsibility of making the decision to him. Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) to act accordingly and for three days, Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf visited every house in Medina to obtain the opinion of every man and woman in regard to who they thought should be elected as Khalifah. All of them expressed their agreement to the Khilafat of Hazrat Uthman (ra). Thus, he gave his verdict in favour of Hazrat Uthman (ra) and he became the Khalifa.” 

*(Khilafat-e-Rashida, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 15, pp. 488-489)*

Hazrat Musleh Maud(ra) has narrated this using various historical references.

The Election of Hazrat Uthman (ra)

It is stated in Fath-ul-Bari, the commentary of Sahih Bukhari that Hazrat Talha (ra) was not present when Hazrat Umar (ra) was giving his counsel. It is possible that he returned only when Hazrat Umar (ra) had passed away. On the other hand, there are narrations which state that he arrived when the consultation has not come to its conclusion yet. According to another narration, which is regarded as more reliable, Hazrat Talha (ra) returned after Hazrat Uthman (ra) had been elected as the Khalifa. 

*(Fath-ul-Bari Sharah Sahih Bukhari, Vol. 7, p. 69, Hadith no. 3700, Dar-ul-Marifah, Beirut)*


Hazrat Talha's (ra) Absence in the Election of Hazrat Uthman (ra)

Whatever the case may be, Hazrat Uthman (ra) was elected as Khalifa and matters returned to normal. When Hazrat Uthman (ra) was martyred, everyone rushed to Hazrat Ali (ra), among whom were the companions and Tabi‘een [the generation of Muslims who saw the Companions] and said that Hazrat Ali (ra) is the new Leader of the Believers [Amir-ul-Momineen]. They all went to his home and expressing their wish to take the pledge of allegiance, they asked him to extend his hand as they regarded him to be the most deserving of this lofty station. In response, Hazrat Ali (ra) said, “You do not have the right to make this assumption. This is the responsibility of the companions (ra) who participated in the Battle of Badr. The Khalifa can only be whoever they are pleased with.” Hence, all of the Badri companions (ra) came to Hazrat Ali (ra) and said, “We see no one more worthy than you in this matter, so extend your hand so that we may pledge our allegiance.” Hazrat Ali (ra) said, “Where is Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra)?” Thus, Hazrat Talha (ra) was the first to make the verbal pledge and Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) was the first to pledge his allegiance at the hand of Hazrat Ali (ra). When Hazrat Ali (ra) saw this, he went to the mosque, climbed to the pulpit and the first person to come up to him to pledge his allegiance was Hazrat Talha (ra). Thereafter, Hazrat Zubair (ra) and other Companions took the pledge of allegiance at the hand of Hazrat Ali (ra). 

*(Usdul-Ghaba Fi Marifat al-Sahaba, Vol. 4, p. 107, Kutub-ul-al-ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003)*


Election of Hazrat Ali (ra) as Khalifa

With regard to whether or not Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra) and Hazrat Aisha (ra) pledged their allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) discusses this matter in one of his speeches in which he responds to the allegations of Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib. This reference is of vital significance. Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) stated:

“Do not come under the impression that Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra) and Hazrat Aisha (ra) did not take the pledge of allegiance and hold this as an argument in your favour.” Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) is responding to Khawaja Kamaluddin Sahib. “They did not reject his [i.e., Hazrat Ali’s] Khilafat, rather their issue was with regard to the killers of Hazrat Uthman (ra). I also say to you that whoever told you that these individuals did not pledge their allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra) is mistaken. Hazrat Aisha (ra) went and sat in Medina as she confessed her error and Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) did not pass away till they pledged their allegiance. In this regard, some historical references are presented below.”

It is mentioned in Khasa‘is Kubra, volume 2:

“Hakim narrates that Thaur bin Majzaa narrated an incident to me, saying, ‘On the day of the Battle of the Camel I passed by Hazrat Talha(ra) when he was in a state close to death.’ He asked me, ‘Which group are you from?’ I answered, ‘I am from the party of Hazrat Ali (ra), the Leader of the Believers.’ He then said, ‘Then extend your hand so that I may take the oath at your hand.’ So he pledged his allegiance at my hand and then passed away. I related the entire incident to Hazrat Ali (ra). Having heard this, he said, ‘Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]! The Messenger (sa) of Allah has spoken the truth! God Almighty did not wish for Hazrat Talha (ra) to enter paradise without first pledging his allegiance to me. He was among the ten people vouchsafed paradise.’

“… Once, the Battle of the Camel was mentioned in the presence of Hazrat Aisha (ra). She said, ‘Do the people speak about the Battle of the Camel?’ One person replied, ‘Yes, that is what we are discussing’. Hazrat Aisha (ra) then said, ‘Alas, if only I remained sat like the people who remained behind that day. This would have pleased me more than if I had 10 children from the Holy Prophet (sa), each of whom were like Hazrat Abdur Rahman bin Harith bin Hisham.’

“… Furthermore, Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) are from among the Ashara Mubashara who were given the glad tidings of entering paradise by the Holy Prophet (sa). Indeed, the Holy Prophet’s glad tiding is certain to be fulfilled. In addition to this they later repented for separating themselves.” 

*(al-Qaul-ul-Fasl, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 2, pp. 318-319)*

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has also mentioned this account.



Hazrat Talha's (ra) Pledge of Allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra)

**Narration 1**

Expounding on the martyrdom of Hazrat Uthman (ra), the oath of allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra) and the Battle of the Camel, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) says:

“Various groups of the assassins dispersed to different areas. To shield themselves from being convicted of Hazrat Uthman’s murder, they began deflecting blame upon others. When they learnt that the Muslims had given the oath of allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra), it gave them a perfect opportunity to point fingers. It is true that from among those around Hazrat Ali (ra) were some who were involved in assassinating Hazrat Uthman (ra). This gave the hypocrites an ideal chance to lay blame on someone else. The party that was heading towards Mecca convinced Hazrat Aisha (ra) to announce Jihad to avenge the murder of Hazrat Uthman (ra). Therefore, Hazrat Aisha(ra) declared Jihad and searched for Companions to support her. Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) pledged allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra) on the condition that he would swiftly dispense punishment for the murderers of Hazrat Uthman (ra). Their interpretation of ‘swift’ was contrary to Hazrat Ali’s view given the circumstances at the time. Hazrat Ali (ra) felt the priority was to first consolidate order in the regions and then turn attention towards punishing the assassins. He felt the primary objective had to be safeguarding Islam and that there was no harm in delaying punishment for the murderers.

“There were also differences of opinion about the identity of the murderers.  Hazrat Ali (ra) did not suspect those who had first approached him – who showed deep remorse and sorrow and expressed their concern of discord among the Muslims – to be the architects of this mischief. However, there were others who had doubts about these same people. As a result of these contrasting viewpoints, Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) felt that Hazrat Ali (ra) had rescinded his promise to them. They had pledged allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra) on one condition, and now they deemed that the condition had not been fulfilled. “Therefore, they made their own decisions considering themselves to be free from their oath of allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra).

“After learning about Hazrat Aisha’s (ra) declaration they too joined forces with her and all of them set out for Basra. The governor of Basra tried to prevent people from joining them. However, when the residents came to know that Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) had pledged allegiance to Hazrat Ali (ra) on a particular condition, therefore the majority joined them. When Hazrat Ali (ra) was notified of this, he also prepared an army and advanced towards Basra. Arriving in Basra, Hazrat Ali (ra) sent a person to Hazrat Aisha (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra). The individual first spoke to Hazrat Aisha (ra) and asked what her intentions were. Hazrat Aisha (ra) replied that she only sought reconciliation and nothing else. The individual then asked Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) if they had also set out for battle for the same reason, to which they replied in the affirmative. The individual explained, ‘If this is your intention, then your recourse to action is mistaken and this would only lead to discord. The current circumstances in the land would mean should you kill one person, a thousand more would rise up in defence. Thus, reconciliation can be achieved by first uniting the people on one hand. Then after that, mete out punishment to the mischievous party. Dispensing punishment in the current climate would be akin to wreaking further havoc and disorder. Let law and order first establish itself and then carry out retribution. Hearing this, they said they were ready to meet Hazrat Ali (ra) based on this notion.’ This individual informed Hazrat Ali (ra) of the outcome. Both parties finally met and resolved that war was the wrong path to adopt and instead reconciliation should be met.

“When this news reached Abdullah bin Saba’s men, who had perpetrated the killing of Hazrat Uthman (ra), they became extremely anxious and a party among them gathered in secrecy for consultation. After consultation, they concluded that if the Muslims were to reconcile with one another, it would prove extremely unfavourable for them because they knew that they would only evade punishment for the killing of Hazrat Uthman (ra), as long as the Muslims continued to fight against one another. They knew that if there was peace and harmony amongst the Muslims, they would have no escape, therefore, no matter what, they could not allow this to happen. In the meantime, Hazrat Ali (ra) also arrived and on the second day after his arrival, he and Hazrat Zubair (ra) met. Hazrat Ali (ra) stated to Hazrat Zubair (ra), ‘You have indeed prepared an army to fight against me, but have you also prepared a justification for this which you shall present before your Lord? Why are you all adamant to destroy Islam with your very hands which you once served by endangering your own lives? Am I not your brother? Why is it that spilling the blood of one another was deemed unlawful before and yet now it has become permissible? It would be understandable if a new injunction had been revealed, but when that is not the case, why then do you stand in opposition?’

“Hazrat Talha (ra) was also with Hazrat Zubair (ra) at the time and replied, ‘You incited those who killed Hazrat Uthman (ra).’

“‘I curse all those who were involved in the killing of Hazrat Uthman (ra)!’ said Hazrat Ali (ra). Addressing Hazrat Zubair (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra) then stated, ‘Do you not recall that the Holy Prophet (sa) once stated, “By God, you will fight against Ali and you will be amongst the transgressors.”’

“Upon hearing this, Hazrat Zubair (ra) returned to his army and vowed that he would not fight against Hazrat Ali (ra) and admitted that he had erred in his interpretation of the affairs. When this news spread amongst his army, they were content that battle would no longer take place between them and in fact, the two parties would reconcile. However, the rebels who sought to spread mischief became anxious, therefore in order to prevent them from reconciling, when night fell, those who had infiltrated in Hazrat Ali’s (ra) army, launched an attack against the army of Hazrat Aisha(ra), Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra), whilst those who had infiltrated in their camp, did vice versa. Consequently, this led to chaos and both armies assumed that the other had deceived them, but in actuality, this was a ploy of Abdullah bin Saba’s men. Once the battle had commenced, Hazrat Ali (ra) called for someone to inform Hazrat Aisha (ra) as perhaps God Almighty may quell the disorder through her. Subsequently, Hazrat Aisha’s (ra) camel was brought forward but this led to an even more perilous situation because the rebels, fearing that their ploy was going to fail once again, began to shoot their arrows in the direction of Hazrat Aisha’s camel. Hazrat Aisha (ra) began to loudly proclaim, ‘O people, cease fighting and recall Allah the Almighty and the Day of Reckoning.’ However, the rebels failed to pay heed and continued to shoot arrows at Hazrat Aisha’s camel. The people of Basra were with the army of Hazrat Aisha (ra) and upon witnessing these scenes and the dishonour of Ummul Momineen – Hazrat Aisha (ra) – they became extremely infuriated and drew out their swords and launched an attack against the opposing army. Subsequently, Hazrat Aisha’s camel became the focal point of the battle. Many companions (ra) and valiant men stood around the camel, and one by one they began to be slain, but they remained in control of the camel’s reins.

“Hazrat Zubair (ra) did not take part in the battle and had distanced himself to one side, however a wretched individual went from behind whilst he was in a state of prayer and martyred him. Hazrat Talha (ra) was martyred in the battlefield and was killed at the hands of the rebels. When the battle intensified, some of the men realised that the only way to stop the battle was by removing Hazrat Aisha (ra) from the battlefield. Therefore, they cut the legs of the camel and placed the saddle in which Hazrat Aisha (ra) was sat, onto the ground. It was only then that the battle stopped. Upon witnessing this entire incident, Hazrat Ali’s face became red with sorrow but there was nothing else that could be done either. When Hazrat Ali (ra) witnessed the body of Hazrat Talha (ra) amongst those who were martyred during the battle, he expressed deep sorrow.

“From these events, it is evidently clear that the companions (ra) were at no fault in this battle and this was all owing to the evil plot of those rebels who had killed Hazrat Uthman (ra). Moreover, Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) passed away whilst in the Bai‘at [oath of allegiance] of Hazrat Ali(ra) because they had turned back from their original intentions and had resolved to support Hazrat Ali (ra), however they were killed at the hands of the rebels. Hazrat Ali (ra) cursed those who killed them.” 

*(Anwar-e-Khilafat, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 3, pp. 198-201)*

**Narration 2**

Whilst mentioning the Battle of the Camel [Jang-e-Jamal] and Hazrat Talha’s martyrdom in another place, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) states:

“When prophets appear in the world, those who accept them in the very early days of their claim are in fact considered amongst the most eminent. Every Muslim knows that after the Holy Prophet (sa), it was Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), Hazrat Umar (ra), Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra), Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra), Hazrat Abdur Rehman (ra) bin Auf, Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) and Hazrat Saeed (ra) who were considered amongst the eminent companions. However, being considered as most eminent did not mean that they enjoyed the most comfort, rather it was owing to the fact that they endured greater hardship than anyone else for the sake of their faith. Hazrat Talha (ra) remained alive after the demise of the Holy Prophet (sa) and witnessed the era when dissension began amongst the Muslims after the martyrdom of Hazrat Uthman (ra). Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra) and Hazrat Aisha (ra) were leaders of the party which was of the opinion that revenge should be sought against those who killed Hazrat Uthman (ra). On other hand, the other party was led by Hazrat Ali (ra) and were of the opinion that man was indeed a mortal being [with reference to Hazrat Uthman (ra) martyrdom], but since Muslims had become divided, therefore the foremost need was to unite the Muslims in order to re-establish the glory and grandeur of Islam and revenge could be taken later. This disagreement escalated to such an extent that Hazrat Talha (ra), Hazrat Zubair (ra) and Hazrat Aisha (ra) alleged that Hazrat Ali (ra) wanted to grant refuge to those who had martyred Hazrat Uthman (ra). Hazrat Ali (ra), on the other hand, alleged that they were giving preference to their personal interests and were not thinking of what was beneficial to Islam. This disagreement went to the most extreme level and resulted in a battle between them. A battle in which Hazrat Aisha (ra) took command of one of the armies.

“Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) were also part of this battle. As mentioned earlier that they initially were amongst those who opposed Hazrat Ali (ra), however Hazrat Zubair (ra) heard what Hazrat Ali (ra) had to say and thus decided to leave, and Hazrat Talha (ra) also wanted to reconcile but the rebels hatched an evil ploy. Nevertheless, there were two groups which took part in the battle. Whilst the battle was taking place, a companion approached Hazrat Talha (ra) and said, ‘O Talha (ra)! Do you remember on such and such occasion, you were sat in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa) and he stated, “Talha, there will come a time when you will be part of an army and Ali will be part of a different army, however Ali (ra) will be on the side of the truth and you will be the one in error.”’ Hazrat Talha (ra) heard this and immediately realised and said, ‘Yes, I recall this.’ He then left the army at once and as he was walking away from the battle so that he could fulfil the words of the Holy Prophet (sa), a wretched individual who was fighting from Hazrat Ali’s army, went from behind and stabbed Hazrat Talha (ra) in the back resulting in his martyrdom.

“Hazrat Ali (ra) was in his camp and thinking that he would receive a great reward, the killer of Hazrat Talha (ra) ran towards Hazrat Ali (ra) and said, ‘O Leader of the Faithful [Amir-ul-Momineen]! I give you tidings that your enemy has been killed.’ Hazrat Ali (ra) asked who was the enemy? He replied, ‘O Leader of the Faithful, I have killed Talha (ra).’ Hazrat Ali (ra) replied to him, ‘I also give you tidings from the Messenger (sa) of Allah that you will be thrown into the Hellfire, because the Holy Prophet (sa) once said in a gathering in which Talha (ra) and I both were present, “O Talha! For the sake of the truth and establishing justice, you will have to endure indignity and you will be killed by an individual who God Almighty will cast into Hell.”’

“During this battle, when the armies of Hazrat Ali (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra) and Hazrat Zubair (ra) were facing one another, Hazrat Talha (ra) began to present arguments in his favour of his stance – this is prior to the time when a companion (ra) reminded him about a saying of the Holy Prophet (sa), as a result of which he left the battlefield. Hazrat Talha (ra) began presenting reasons in his favour, when all of a sudden, someone from the army of Hazrat Ali (ra) said, ‘O paralysed one, remain silent!’ One of his hands had become completely withered and did not function at all. When he tauntingly referred to him as disabled and told him to remain silent, Hazrat Talha (ra) said, ‘You may have told me to remain silent and referred to my paralysed hand, but do you even know how this came to be in such a condition? During the Battle of Uhud, when the Muslims became dispersed, there were only 12 companions around the Holy Prophet (sa). An enemy, three thousand strong, had surrounded us from all four corners and fired a burst of arrows in the attempt to kill the Holy Prophet (sa), thinking that if this was achieved it would bring an end to the matter. At the time, each enemy archer had their bow pointing towards the Holy Prophet (sa) and they would fire the arrows towards his face. It was during this time when I placed my hand in front of the face of the Holy Prophet (sa). All the arrows from the enemy struck my hand, to the extent that it became incapacitated and paralysed, but I never moved my hand away from the Holy Prophet’s face.’”  

*(Ainda wohy qaume izzat payen ge jo maali aur jaani qurabinio main hissa lein gi, Anwar-ul-Ulum Vol. 21, pp. 149-151)*

**Narration 3**

Regarding this incident of Hazrat Talha (ra) during the Battle of the Camel [Jang-e-Jamal], on one occasion, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) stated:

“Someone cried out that the paralysed one had been killed! One companion (ra) who heard this said: ‘O wretched one, do you even know how his hand came to be paralysed? During the Battle of Uhud, when owing to a misunderstanding, the Companions dispersed from the battlefield, the enemies learnt that the Holy Prophet (sa) was still in the battlefield with only a few companions around him. All of a sudden, an army of 3,000 disbelievers attacked the Holy Prophet (sa). Hundreds of archers took up their positions and targeted their arrows in the direction of the Holy Prophet’s (sa) face in order to attack him. On that occasion, the one who safeguarded the blessed countenance of the Holy Prophet (sa) was Talha (ra). He placed his hand in front, and thus every arrow that would have struck the Holy Prophet’s face landed on Talha’s hand. Arrows would continue to fall and the wound would only deepen, resulting in permanent damage to the tendons and blood vessels of Hazrat Talha’s hand, which became paralysed as a result. Thus, the one whom you look upon with contempt owing to his paralysis, we consider it to be a blessing that each one of us yearns to attain it.’” 

*(Khutabat-e-Mahmud, Vol. 26, p. 386, Friday Sermon, 28 September 1945)*

Details of the Battle of the Camel

Rib‘ee bin Hirash narrates:

“I was sat next to Hazrat Ali (ra) when Imran bin Talha came to see him. He greeted Hazrat Ali (ra) with the Islamic greeting, to which Hazrat Ali (ra) replied: ‘Marhaba, Imran bin Talha, Marhaba’. Imran bin Talha said: ‘O Leader of the Faithful! You greet me with the words “Marhaba” [Welcome] however you killed my father and took my wealth.’ Hazrat Ali (ra) replied, ‘Your [share of that] wealth has been allocated for you and is in Bait-ul-Maal [treasury]. Kindly take it in the morning.’”

In another narration, it is stated that Hazrat Ali (ra) said, “I took that wealth under my control lest other people usurp it. As for your statement that I killed your father, then I am certain that your father and I would be counted amongst those people regarding whom God Almighty stated:

وَ نَزَعْنَا مَا فِیْ صُدُوْرِہِمْ مِّنْ غِلٍّ اِخْوَانًا عَلٰى سُرُرٍ مُّتَقٰبِلِیْنَ

‘And We shall remove whatever rancour may be in their hearts so that they will become as brothers seated on thrones, facing one another. (Surah al-Hijr, Ch.15: V.48)’” 

*(al-Tabqat al-Kubra Li Ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 169, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Illmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*

Muhammad Ansari narrates on the authority of his father that on the day of the Battle of the Camel [Jang-e-Jamal], an individual came to Hazrat Ali (ra) and asked if the one who had killed Talha had permission to enter [to see him]? The narrator states, “I heard Hazrat Ali (ra) say: ‘Inform him (i.e., the killer) that he shall be cast into hell.’” 

*(al-Tabqat al-Kubra Li Ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 169, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Illmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)*

Hazrat Ali's (ra) Non-Compliance in his Martyrdom

When Hazrat Talha (ra) was martyred and Hazrat Ali (ra) saw his body, he began to wipe away dust off Hazrat Talha’s face and said, “O Abu Muhammad! It pains me greatly to see you lying here in the dust, beneath the starlit sky.” He then said, “I entrust my anguish and shortcomings before God Almighty.” He then prayed for Hazrat Talha (ra) and said, “If only I had departed from this world twenty years earlier.” Hazrat Ali (ra) and those with him cried profusely. On one occasion, Hazrat Ali (ra) heard someone recite the following couplet Hazrat Talha (ra):

فَتًی کَانَ یُدْنِیْہِ الْغِنٰی مِنْ صَدِیْقِہِ

اِذَا مَا ھُوَ اسْتَغْنٰی وَ یُبْعِدُہُ الفَقْرُ

“He was a youth that would enjoy spending time with his friends when he was wealthy and affluent.  But during straitened times, when he was in need, he would avoid their company.”

Upon hearing this couplet, Hazrat Ali (ra) said, “This couplet can only be regarding Abu Muhammad – Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah. May Allah have mercy on him.” 

*(Usdul-Ghaba Fi Marifat al-Sahaba, Vol. 3, p. 87, Talha (ra) bin Ubaidillah, Kutub-ul-al-ilmiyyah, Beirut)*

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