Tabligh (Preaching)

Shura

The Promised Messiah (as)

Whatever the case may be, Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair was the first missionary sent to Medina. Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair would go along with Hazrat As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah to preach in the different neighbourhoods of the Ansar. Many people accepted Islam as a result of the preaching of Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, among whom are some of the prominent companions such as Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az (ra), Hazrat Ibaad(ra) bin Bishr, Hazrat Muhammad(ra) bin Maslamah, Hazrat Usaid (ra) bin Huzair.

(al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Ishaq, p. 199, Bab Awwal Jumu’ah Uqimat bil Madinah, Dar-Ibn Hizam, Beirut, 2009) (al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 3, p. 312, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)

Whilst mentioning the preaching efforts of Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra) writes:

“Whilst departing from Mecca, these twelve new Muslim converts requested, ‘Please send an Islamic tutor with us, who can teach us Islam and can preach Islam to our idolatrous brothers as well.’ The Holy Prophet (sa) sent Mus‘ab (ra) bin ‘Umair, a very devout young man from the Abdud-Dar tribe along with them. An Islamic preacher was referred to as a qari or muqri in those days, because the majority of their work was to recite the Holy Quran, as this was the best method of preaching. As such, Mus‘ab (ra) was also renowned by the name muqri in Yathrib.

“When he arrived in Medina, Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair stayed at the home of As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah, who was the first Muslim of Medina, and was a very devout and influential leader. His home was transformed into a preaching centre and Mus‘ab (ra) began to perform his duties with full attention. Since the Muslims of Medina lived a collective life, and Medina was comparatively more peaceful, upon the proposal of As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah, the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair to begin offering the Jumuah prayer, and in this way, the Muslims began their life as a unified community. The blessings of Allah were such as it was not long before the religion of Islam began to find popularity in every home of Medina. The Aus and the Khazraj began to accept Islam very rapidly.

“In some cases, the entirety of a tribe would accept Islam in one day. Thus, the Banu Abdil-Ashhal tribe also accepted Islam in this manner, and became Muslim at once. This was a very distinct branch of the Ansar tribe known as the Aus, and the chieftain of this tribe was named Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az. Not only was he the chieftain of the Abdul-Ashhal tribe, but he was the leader of the entire Aus tribe as well. When Islam began to find popularity in Medina, Sa‘d bin Mu‘az initially disliked it and endeavoured to stop it (i.e. before accepting Islam, Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az opposed it greatly), but he was closely related to As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah. Both of them were cousins and As‘ad (ra) had become a Muslim. For this reason, Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az would not approach him personally so as to prevent a dispute. As such, he said to another one of his relatives, Usaid bin al-Hudair, ‘I am somewhat embarrassed to say anything due to As‘ad bin Zurarah, (since he had become a Muslim and was helping in spreading the message) but you go and stop Mus‘ab (instead of stopping As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah, they decided to stop Mus‘ab (ra) from preaching) and from spreading this irreligiousness. Tell As‘ad as well that this way of life is not right.’ Usaid was from the revered chieftains of the Abdul-Ashhal tribe, and his father had remained the leader of the entire Aus tribe during the Battle of Bu‘ath. After Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az, Usaid bin al-Hudair possessed significant influence within his tribe. Therefore, upon the encouragement of Sa‘d (ra), he went to Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair and As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah. He addressed Mus‘ab (ra) in a tone of anger, saying, ‘Why do you make our people irreligious? Abstain from this or the outcome shall not be pleasant!’ Before Mus‘ab (ra) could answer, As’ad (ra) softly told Mus‘ab (ra), ‘He is a very powerful chieftain of his tribe, speak to him very gently and lovingly.’

“Therefore, Mus‘ab (ra) addressed him in a very respectful and loving tone, and said, ‘Do not be angry, rather be so kind as to sit and listen to what we have to say with a cool heart, then you may formulate your opinion.’ Usaid (who was of a pious disposition) found this to be a logical proposition and sat down. Mus‘ab (ra) recited the Holy Quran to him and enlightened him of Islamic teachings very benevolently. Usaid (ra) was so moved that he accepted Islam right away, and said, ‘There is such a man behind me that if he converts, our entire tribe will accept Islam. Wait here, I shall send him.’ After this, Usaid (ra) left, and by some excuse, he sent Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az to Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair and As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah. Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az came and furiously said to As‘ad (ra) bin Zurarah, ‘Look here As’ad. Indeed, you are misusing your family relations and this is not right. If I am silent on this matter, then it is only owing to our family ties, but do not take advantage of this.’ Upon this, in the same manner as before, Mus‘ab (ra) tenderly and lovingly cooled him down and said, ‘Take a seat here and listen to what I have to say. If, then, there is something objectionable, you may reject it.’

“Sa‘d (ra) responded, ‘Alright, this appeal seems to be rational.’ Resting his spear, he took a seat, and in the same manner, Mus‘ab (ra) recited the Holy Quran to him and expounded Islamic principles in his very attractive manner. It was not long before this idol also submitted, (i.e. Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az also accepted Islam.) Therefore, as per the custom, Sa‘d (ra) bathed and recited the Kalima Shahadah [Islamic creed]. After this, Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az and Usaid (ra) bin al-Hudair went to their tribesmen and Sa‘d (ra) enquired of them in a particular Arabian custom, ‘O Bani ‘Abdul-Ashhal, how do you find me?’ They all answered in unison, ‘You are our leader and the son of our leader. We have full trust in you.’ Sa‘d (ra) responded, ‘Then I have nothing to do with you until you believe in Allah and His Messenger (sa).’ After this, Sa‘d (ra) explained the principles of Islam to them, and evening had not yet come, before the entire tribe had converted to Islam. Sa‘d (ra) and Usaid (ra) broke the idols that belonged to their people with their own hands. Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az and Usaid (ra) bin al-Hudair who accepted Islam that day, are counted amongst the most eminent of companions.”

Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib (ra) further says:

“And among the Ansar undoubtedly, they possess a magnificent status. In particular, Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az received a position amongst the Ansar as did Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) amongst the Muhajirin of Mecca.

“This young man turned out to be extremely sincere, remarkably loyal, and an exceptionally devoted lover of Islam and the Founder (sa) of Islam. Since he was also the chieftain of his tribe, he was extraordinarily intelligent as well. He acquired such a position in Islam which was not only distinctive, nay, the most distinctive companions of the Holy Prophet (sa) acquired. No doubt, upon his early demise, the words of the Holy Prophet (sa) that, ‘Upon the demise of Sa‘d (ra), even the throne of the Gracious God has come into motion,’ was based on a very deep reality.

“Therefore, in this manner, Islam began to spread throughout the Aus and the Khazraj very rapidly. The Jews would look to this sight in terror. In their hearts they would say, ‘God knows what is about to happen.’”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra), pp. 224-227)

Owing to the preaching efforts of Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, many people accepted Islam. On the occasion of Hajj, 13 Nabwai, he brought a delegation of 70 Ansar to Mecca. Analysing this from various sources, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra) writes in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin:

“The following year, that is, Dhul-Hijjah of 13 Nabawi, on the occasion of Hajj, many hundreds of people from the Aus and the Khazraj came to Mecca. Among them, there were 70 such people who had either become Muslim or now desired to become Muslims, and came to Mecca in order to meet the Holy Prophet (sa).

“Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair was also among them. Mus‘ab’s (ra) mother was alive, and although she was an idolatress, loved him very much. When she was informed of his coming, she sent word, ‘First come and meet me, then go elsewhere.’ Mus‘ab (ra) responded, ‘I have not yet met the Holy Prophet (sa), I shall come to you once I have met him.’ Therefore, he presented himself before the Holy Prophet (sa) first, and briefed him on key issues, then visited his mother. (On seeing that he had not gone to meet her first) she was very upset. When she saw him, she began to weep and complain. Mus‘ab (ra) said, ‘Mother! I tell you something wonderful which is very beneficial for you, and shall put an end to every disagreement.’ She enquired, ‘What is that?’ Mus‘ab (ra) quietly responded, ‘This, that you forsake idol worship and become a Muslim, and believe in the Holy Prophet (sa).’ She was a firm idolatress, and as soon as she heard this, she began to put up a commotion, saying, ‘I swear by the stars that I shall never enter your religion,’ and signalled her relatives to capture Mus‘ab (ra), but he managed to escape.”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra), p. 227)

The people of Syria belonged to different religions, spoke different languages and were of various ethnicities. Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah (ra) upheld justice and established equality between them. Peace and order was restored and each citizen was granted religious freedom. He established the essence of the Islamic teachings by telling them, “You are all the children of Adam and are brothers to one another. Therefore, as humans, everybody is equal.” A common allegation that is raised is that people were compelled to accept Islam; however, this is incorrect. Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (ra) granted religious freedom to the Romans. He ensured each tribe was given their due rights and established law and order. Owing to the conduct of Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (ra), the Arabs of Syria, who were Christians, accepted Islam. As mentioned earlier, they accepted Islam due to the preaching or upon seeing the good conduct of the Muslims and not through compulsion. Aside from this, the Romans and the Christians also accepted Islam owing to Hazrat Abu Ubaidah’s (ra) high morals.

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) states:

“When we ponder over the incidents in the life of the Holy Prophet (sa), this claim that the Holy Prophet (sa) had an extraordinary amount of love and sympathy for mankind becomes a manifest reality, and at each step we can see proofs of this. For years on end the Holy Prophet (sa) endured such horrific persecution for the sake of the One God that is difficult to describe. One day, whilst the Holy Prophet was in the Ka‘bah, the disbelievers tied a belt around the neck of the Holy Prophet (sa) and fastened it so tightly that his eyes became red and began to bulge. When Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) heard this, he came running and upon seeing the treatment of the Holy Prophet (sa), tears began to flow from Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (ra) eyes. Pushing the disbelievers away, he said, ‘Fear Allah! Will you persecute someone just because he says that Allah is his Lord?’”

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 7, pp. 63-64)

On one occasion, whilst speaking on the subject of tabligh in one of his addresses, Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) mentioned accounts from the life of Hazrat Umar (ra). He stated:

“In the battles that were fought after the demise of the Holy Prophet (sa), the Muslims were mostly outnumbered. During the battle in Syria, there was a great shortage of soldiers. Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (ra) sent a letter to Hazrat Umar (ra) saying that the enemy was in far greater numbers and requested reinforcement. Hazrat Umar (ra) took an assessment of the situation and found it impossible to form another battalion as the young men of the tribes in and around Arabia had either been killed or were already part of the army.

“Subsequently, Hazrat Umar (ra) organised a gathering to seek consultation. People from various tribes were invited and this matter was put before them. They suggested that there was one tribe where some men could be found. Hazrat Umar (ra) instructed one of his officers to immediately go there and gather the young men of that tribe. He also wrote to Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (ra) stating that he was going to send 6,000 men to support him and they would reach him in a few days. Hazrat Umar (ra) stated that 3,000 men would reach him from such and such tribe and he was sending Amr bin Ma‘di Karib as an equivalent of the remaining 3,000.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) further states:

“If one of our youths was sent to confront 3,000 men, he would say that this was a completely illogical thing and would ask whether the Khalifa had lost his senses. Can a single person confront 3,000 men? However, observe how strong the faith of those individuals was! When Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (ra) received the letter from Hazrat Umar (ra), he read it and told his soldiers to rejoice as Amr bin Ma‘di Karib would be reaching them the following day.

“The following day, the soldiers welcomed Amr bin Ma‘di Karib with great passion and raised slogans. The enemy thought that the Muslims were perhaps reinforced by an army of 100,000 or 200,000 men and that is why they were rejoicing so much. However, it was only Amr bin Ma‘di Karib by himself. Following this, the contingent of 3,000 men reached them as well and the Muslims defeated the enemy. For a single person to confront 3,000 men in a battle with swords is virtually impossible.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) further states:

“During a debate, a single man can convey his message to several thousand. However, these people gave such importance to the words of the Khalifa of the time that when Hazrat Umar (ra) sent Amr bin Ma‘di Karib as an equivalent of 3,000 soldiers, the soldiers did not raise any objection as to how a single person could confront 3,000 men; rather, they considered him to be equivalent to 3,000 men and welcomed him in an excellent manner. As a result of this welcome of the Muslims, the hearts of the enemy were filled with fear and they believed that perhaps an army of 100,000 or 200,000 men came as reinforcement for the Muslims. As such, the enemy was defeated during the battle and fled.”

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) says, “At present, we must reassure our hearts in this manner as well.”

(Spain Aur Sicily mein tabligh-e-Islam aur Jamaat-e-Ahmadiyya, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 18, pp. 359-260)

This incident was narrated by Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) in relation to how to do tabligh in Europe; for example in Spain and Sicily etc.

With regard to Hazrat Ali (ra) being sent to Yemen, it is mentioned in a narration that in 10 AH, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent Hazrat Ali (ra) to Yemen. Prior to this, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent Hazrat Khalid (ra) bin Walid towards the people of Yemen to invite them towards Islam, but they refused. Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent Hazrat Ali (ra). Hazrat Ali (ra) read the letter of the Holy Prophet (sa) before the people of Yemen as a result of which the entire residents of Hamadan accepted Islam in a single day. Hazrat Ali (ra) wrote a letter to the Holy Prophet (sa) informing him of their acceptance of Islam. Owing to this, the Holy Prophet (sa) recited three times: “May peace be upon the people of Hamadan.” Hamadan is situated in Yemen and is approximately 1,150 kilometres south east of Medina. After this, the people of Yemen accepted Islam. Hazrat Ali (ra) wrote to the Holy Prophet (sa) informing him about this, upon which he prostrated out of gratitude.

(Al-Kamil fi al-Tarikh, Vol. 2, p. 168, Dhikr Irsal Ali ila al-Yaman wa Islam Hamadan, Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2006) (Ghazwat wa Saraya az Allamah Muhammad Azhar Fareed Shah, p. 550, Fareed Publications Sahiwal, 2018)

Nonetheless, whilst the Holy Prophet (sa) was riding past, the dust from his mount fell on the gathering that was seated beside the road, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salool covered his nose and said “Do not cast dust upon us!” The Holy Prophet (sa) offered greetings of Salam [peace] and stopped and dismounted. The Holy Prophet (sa) then invited them towards Allah and recited the Holy Quran. Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salool replied, “Is there nothing better than what you say? Even if this were true, do not come to our gathering and disrupt it. There is no need to say these things in our gathering, rather go back to where you came from and inform those who come to you.” Upon hearing this, Hazrat Abdullah (ra) bin Rawaha, who had accepted Islam and was a companion, stated, “Nay, O Prophet (sa) of Allah! You should come to our gatherings and recite this to us as we greatly enjoy this.”

Consequently, the Muslims, idolaters and Jews began to quarrel with one another and were almost about to attack one another, however the Holy Prophet (sa) continued to calm them down. Eventually, they stopped and the Holy Prophet (sa) mounted his animal and set off and reached Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Ubadah. The Holy Prophet (sa) asked Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadah (ra), “O Sa‘d! Have you heard what Abu Habab said to me today?” The Holy Prophet (sa) was referring to Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salool. The Holy Prophet (sa) then related to him the entire incident. Hazrat Sa‘d bin Ubadah (ra) replied, “O Messenger (sa) of Allah! Forgive him and overlook [this act of his]. I swear by Him, Who has revealed the Holy Quran to you that God Almighty has now established the truth which He has bestowed upon you. The people of this town had previously decided to appoint him, i.e., Abdullah bin Ubayy, as their leader and to place the crown of leadership upon his head. However, when Allah the Almighty did not allow this to happen owing to the truth which God Almighty has revealed to you, he began to burn in his fire of jealousy. This is the reason why he uttered this.” i.e., he was about to be appointed as the leader, however, with the arrival of the Holy Prophet (sa), this was taken away from him. That is why he was jealous of the Holy Prophet (sa) and said the aforementioned. Upon hearing this, the Holy Prophet(sa) forgave him. When the idolaters and the People of Book would cause affliction to the Holy Prophet (sa) and his companions (ra), they would in turn forgive them as per the commandment of God Almighty:

لَتُبۡلَوُنَّ فِیۡۤ اَمۡوَالِکُمۡ وَ اَنۡفُسِکُمۡ ۟ وَ لَتَسۡمَعُنَّ مِنَ الَّذِیۡنَ اُوۡتُوا الۡکِتٰبَ مِنۡ قَبۡلِکُمۡ وَ مِنَ الَّذِیۡنَ اَشۡرَکُوۡۤا اَذًی کَثِیۡرًا ؕ وَ اِنۡ تَصۡبِرُوۡا وَ تَتَّقُوۡا فَاِنَّ ذٰلِکَ مِنۡ عَزۡمِ الۡاُمُوۡرِ

“You shall surely be tried in your possessions and in your persons and you shall surely hear many hurtful things from those who were given the Book before you and from those who set up equals to God. But if you show fortitude and act righteously, that indeed is a matter of strong determination.” (Surah al-e-Imran, Ch.3: V.187)

God Almighty then stated:

وَدَّ کَثِیۡرٌ مِّنۡ اَہۡلِ الۡکِتٰبِ لَوۡ یَرُدُّوۡنَکُمۡ مِّنۡۢ بَعۡدِ اِیۡمَانِکُمۡ کُفَّارًا ۚۖ حَسَدًا مِّنۡ عِنۡدِ اَنۡفُسِہِمۡ مِّنۡۢ بَعۡدِ مَا تَبَیَّنَ لَہُمُ الۡحَقُّ ۚ فَاعۡفُوۡا وَ اصۡفَحُوۡا حَتّٰی یَاۡتِیَ اللّٰہُ بِاَمۡرِہٖ ؕ اِنَّ اللّٰہَ عَلٰی کُلِّ شَیۡءٍ قَدِیۡرٌ

“Many of the People of the Book wish out of sheer envy from their own selves that, after you have believed, they could turn you again into disbelievers. But forgive and turn away from them, till Allah brings about His decree. Surely, Allah has the power to do all that He wills.” [Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.110]

The Holy Prophet (sa) would always prefer to forgive, just as God Almighty had commanded him to do so. Eventually, God Almighty granted them permission to confront the disbelievers in the Battle of Badr and through this battle, God Almighty brought an end to the leaders of the Quraish. Consequently, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salool and other idolaters said that this community [i.e., the Muslims] was now beginning to succeed. Upon witnessing the defeat of the disbelievers, they affirmed belief in the Holy Prophet(sa) and pledged allegiance to him, thereby becoming Muslims.

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitabut Tafsir, Tafsir Aal-e-‘Imran, Hadith 4566)

At the occasion of the first pledge at Aqabah, 12 individuals came from Medina to take the oath of allegiance at the hand of the Holy Prophet (sa). When they were preparing to return to Medina, the Holy Prophet (sa) also sent Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair with them in order to teach them the Holy Quran and about Islam. He was known in Medina by the titles of qari [Reciter] and muqri, i.e. he became known as ‘The Teacher’.

(Usdul Ghabah, Vol. 5, pp. 175-176, Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2003) (al-Isti‘ab, Vol. 4, p. 37, Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2010) (al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Ishaq, p. 199, Bab irsaal al-Rasul Mus‘ab bin Umair ma‘a wafd al-Aqabah, Dar-Ibn Hizam, Beirut, 2009)

According to another tradition, the Aus and Khazraj tribes of the Ansar went to the Holy Prophet (sa) and requested for someone to teach them the Holy Quran. The Holy Prophet (sa) therefore sent Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair.

(al-Tabaqaat-ul-Kubra li ibn Sa‘d, Vol. 1, p. 171, bab Dhikr al- al-Aqabah al-Ula Itha al-Ashara, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 1990)

Whilst in Medina, Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair stayed at the house of Hazrat As‘ad bin Zurarah (ra). He also carried out the duty of leading the prayers.

(al-Sirat al-Nabawiyyah li Ibn Ishaq, p. 199, Bab irsaal al-Rasul Mus‘ab bin Umair ma‘a wafd al-Aqabah, Dar-Ibn Hizam, Beirut, 2009)

Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair stayed at the house of Hazrat As‘ad bin Zurarah (ra) for a long period of time but later on, he moved to the house of Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) bin Mu‘az.

(Siyar as-Sahaba, Vol. 2, Muhajireen part 1, p. 272, Darul Isha’at, Karachi, 2004)

Hazrat Bara (ra) bin Aazib relates:

“The very first Muhajir companions of the Holy Prophet (sa) to migrate to Medina were Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair and Hazrat Ibn Umm-e-Maktum (ra). When they arrived in Medina, they began teaching us the Holy Quran. Later, Hazrat, Ammar (ra), Hazrat Bilal (ra) and Hazrat Sa‘d (ra) also came. Then Hazrat Umar (ra) bin Khattab arrived along with a few other companions and eventually the Holy Prophet (sa) arrived.”

He further states, “I have never seen the people of Medina so happy as on the occasion when the Holy Prophet (sa) arrived and the girls and boys were proclaiming, ‘You are the Messenger (sa) of Allah! You have come to us.’”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Tafsir al-Quran, Bab Surah al-A‘la, Hadith 4941)

With regard to Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra) writes in Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin:

“Those who accepted Islam in Dar-e-Arqam are included amongst the pioneers. Among these, the most renowned include Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair, who was from the Banu Abdid-Dar. He was very handsome and striking, and was held very dear among his family. This is the same noble young man who was sent as a missionary to Yathrab prior to the migration and through whom Islam spread in Medina.”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra), p. 129)

It is stated in a book on the life of the Holy Prophet (sa) that Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair was the first person to lead the Friday prayers in Medina prior to the migration.

During the era of Hazrat Uthman (ra), Islam reached the Indian subcontinent. Imam Yusuf writes in his book, Al-Kharaj, with reference to Imam Zuhri that Egypt and Syria were conquered during the era of Hazrat Umar (ra) and Ifriqiya, Khorasan and Sindh were conquered during the era of Hazrat Uthman (ra).

(Imam Abu Yusuf, Kitab al-Ikhraj, Fasl fi Qital Ahl al-Shirk… [Al-Maktabah al-Taufiqiyyah, 2013], p. 218)

There is a narration in regard to the arrival of Islam in the Indian subcontinent as follows:

During the era of Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Abdullah bin Muamir was given an army under his command and sent to Mukran and Sindh, where he demonstrated great valour and bravery in the conquest of Mukran. Later, he was appointed as the governor of these newly conquered lands.

(Muhammad Ishaq Bhatti, Barr-e-Saghir mein Islam ke Awwalin Nuqush, 2009, p. 63)

In regard to Hazrat Mujashi bin Mas‘ud Sulammi it is written that whilst leading a Muslim army, he fought a Jihad against the opponents of Islam in Kabul, the capital of modern-day Afghanistan. According to historians, Kabul was considered a part of India in those days. During the era of Hazrat Uthman (ra), Hazrat Mujashi fought against the opponents of Islam in Balochistan, a province of Pakistan and also conquered the neighbouring area of Sistan. Thereafter, the Muslims began to live in these areas of the Indian subcontinent and considered it as their homeland.

(Muhammad Ishaq Bhatti, Barr-e-Saghir mein Islam ke Awwalin Nuqush, 2009, p. 65)

With regard to the trials and difficulties Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) had to endure for the sake of propagating the message of Islam, it is written in Usd al-Ghabah that upon the advent of Islam, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) was the very first to accept the message of Islam. An entire community of people accepted Islam through him owing to the love and affinity they had with him (i.e. for Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra)); so much so that five of the Ashra Mubashra [10 companions given the glad-tidings of Paradise in their lifetime] embraced Islam through Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra).

(Usd al-Ghabah Fi Ma‘rifat al-Sahaba, Vol. 3, p. 205, Abdullah bin Uthman, Dar-ul-Fikr, Beirut, 2003)

Those who entered the fold of Islam owing to the preaching efforts of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) were Hazrat Uthman (ra) bin Affan, Hazrat Zubairra bin Al-Awam, Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf, Hazrat Saad (ra) bin Abi Waqas and Hazrat Talha (ra) bin Ubaidullah.

(Sirat Ibn Hisham, Vol. 1, p. 166, Dar-ul-Kitab Al-Arabi, Beriut, 2008)

In relation to this, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib (ra) writes in his book Sirat Khatam-ul-Nabiyyin:

“After Hazrat Khadija (ra), Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), Hazrat Ali (ra) and Zaid (ra) bin Harithah, five more individuals accepted Islam, by the preaching of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). All of these individuals acquired such eminence and dignity, that they are considered the greatest of companions. These are their names:

“First was Hazrat Uthman (ra) bin Affan who belonged to the dynasty of the Banu Umaiyyah. When he accepted Islam, his age was approximately 30 years. After Hazrat Umar (ra), he became the Third Caliph of the Holy Prophet (sa). Hazrat Uthman (ra) was remarkably modest, loyal, soft-hearted, beneficent and affluent. He served Islam financially in many instances. The love of the Holy Prophet (sa) for Hazrat Uthman (ra) can be measured by the fact that he gave him two of his daughters in marriage, one after another, due to which he is known as Dhu al-Nurain.

“Second was Hazrat Abdur Rahman (ra) bin Auf who belonged to the dynasty of the Banu Zuhrah – the dynasty of the Holy Prophet (sa) mother. He was a man of extraordinary understanding and experience. It was he who settled the issue of the Caliphate of Hazrat Uthman (ra). When he accepted Islam, he was approximately 30 years of age. He died in the reign of Uthman (ra).

“Third was Saad (ra) bin Abi Waqas who, at that time, was in the prime of his youth – that is to say, 19 years of age. He was also from the Banu Zuhrah and was astonishingly brave and courageous. In the reign of Hazrat Umar (ra), Iraq was conquered at his hands. He died in the time of Amir Mu‘awiyah.

“Fourth was Zubairra bin al-Awam, who was a cousin of the Holy Prophet (sa). He was the son of Safiyyah bint Abdil-Muttalib and later became the son-in-law of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). He belonged to the Banu Asad and when he accepted Islam, he was only 15 years old. On the occasion of the Battle of the Ditch, the Holy Prophet (sa) endowed him the title of Hawari [Disciple] due to an exceptional service performed by him. He was martyred in the reign of Hazrat Ali (ra) after the Battle of the Camel.

“Fifth was Talha bin Ubaidullah who was from the tribe of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), the Banu Taym. During that time, he was at the prime of his youth. Talha was also amongst the distinctive devotees of Islam. He was martyred in the reign of Hazrat Ali (ra) during the Battle of the Camel.

“All of these five companions are amongst the Ashrah Mubasharah; in other words, they are included amongst those 10 companions who were especially given glad tidings of entrance into Paradise from the blessed tongue of the Holy Prophet (sa) himself, and who were regarded as his utmost intimate companions and advisors.”

(Sirat Khatamun-Nabiyyin, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad (ra), pp. 122-123)

The disbelievers of Mecca perpetrated all kinds of cruelty and injustice against those who accepted Islam. It was not just the weak and enslaved Muslims who were a target of their oppression, but even the Holy Prophet (sa) himself and Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) were not safe from them either. History bears testimony to the fact that they were also made a target of all kinds of injustices and cruelties, i.e. the Holy Prophet (sa) and Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra).

Narration 1

There is an incident mentioned in Sirat al-Halabiyyah that when Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra) openly expressed their acceptance of Islam, Naufal bin Adawiyyah took hold of both of them. This person was referred to as the “Lion of the Quraish” and he tied both of them with one rope. Even the people of their own tribe, Banu Taym did not come and save them. That is why both Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) and Hazrat Talha (ra) are also known as “qarinain”, i.e. two friends joined together. Owing to Naufal bin Adawiyyah’s strength and cruelty, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated:

اَللّٰهُمَّ‭ ‬اكْفِنَا‭ ‬شَرَّ‭ ‬ابْنِ‭ ‬الْعَدَوِيَّةِ‬‬‬‬

“O Allah! Be sufficient for us against the evil of Ibn Adawiyyah.”

(Al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 1, p. 395, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)

Narration 2

Urwah bin Zubair narrates that he once asked Hazrat Abudullah bin Amr bin al-Aas to tell him the mot heinous act committed by the idolaters against the Holy Prophet (sa). He replied that once, the Holy Prophet (sa) was offering his prayer in the Hateem of Masjid Al-Haram when Uqbah bin Abi Muait came and put a cloth around the Holy Prophet (sa) neck and then began to strangle him. During this time, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) came and took hold of Uqbah’s shoulder and pulled him off the Holy Prophet (sa) and stated:

أَتَقْتُلُوْنَ‭ ‬رَجُلًا‭ ‬أَنْ‭ ‬يَّقُوْلَ‭ ‬رَبِّيَ‭ ‬اللّٰهُ‬‬‬‬‬

“Do you seek to kill a person because he says that Allah is his Lord?”

(Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab Manaqib Al-Ansar, Hadith no. 3856)

Narration 3

In another narration, it states that the idolaters once asked the Holy Prophet (sa) whether he had said such and such thing about their idols. The Holy Prophet (sa) replied in the affirmative, upon which the idolaters surrounded the Holy Prophet (sa). Meanwhile, someone informed Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) to enquire about his companion. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) left and went to Masjid al-Haram. There he saw the Holy Prophet (sa) in a state whereby people had surrounded him. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) then stated:

أَتَقْتُلُوْنَ‭ ‬رَجُلًا‭ ‬أَنْ‭ ‬يَّقُوْلَ‭ ‬رَبِّيَ‭ ‬اللّٰهُ‬‬‬‬‬

“Do you seek to kill a person because he says that Allah is his Lord even though he has brought manifest signs from your Lord?”

Following this, they let the Holy Prophet (sa) go and instead pounced upon Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) and began to attack him. Hazrat Abu Bakr’s (ra) daughter, Hazrat Asma (ra) states that Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) returned in such a state that when he would touch his hair, they would fall into his hands and he would continue to repeat:

تَبَارَكْتَ‭ ‬يَا‭ ‬ذَا‭ ‬الْجَلَالِ‭ ‬وَ‭ ‬الْاِكْرَامِ‬‬‬‬‬

“O Possessor of Majesty and Honour! Holy art Thou.”

Narration 4

In another narration, it is mentioned that these people grabbed hold of the Holy Prophet (sa) blessed head and beard with such force that most of his blessed hair came out. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) stood up to save him and he was saying:

أَتَقْتُلُوْنَ‭ ‬رَجُلًا‭ ‬أَنْ‭ ‬يَّقُوْلَ‭ ‬رَبِّيَ‭ ‬اللّٰهُ‬‬‬‬‬

“Do you seek to kill a person because he says that Allah is his Lord – Do you seek to kill a person because he says that Allah is his Lord?”

Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) was crying whilst saying this. Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated, “O Abu Bakr! Leave them. I swear by Him in Whose hands is my life, I have been sent to them so I may be sacrificed [in this way].”

Following this, the disbelievers let the Holy Prophet (sa) go.

(Al-Sirat al-Halabiyyah, Vol. 1, p. 417, Dar-ul-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, Beirut, 2002)

Narration 5

On one occasion, Hazrat Ali (ra) asked the people, “O people! Who is the bravest among everyone?” People replied, “O Leader of the Faithful! You are the bravest.” Hazrat Ali (ra) replied, “As for me, whoever came up against me in combat, I did full justice.” In other words, he killed them. “However, the bravest was Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). When we erected a tent for the Holy Prophet (sa) on the day of the Battle of Badr and thereafter we announced, ‘Who is it that shall stay with the Holy Prophet (sa), so that no one from among the idolaters will be able to get to him?’ I swear by God, no one went close to the Holy Prophet (sa) except Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra), who went and stood next to the Holy Prophet (sa) with his sword drawn out. In other words, none of the idolaters would have been able to get to the Holy Prophet (sa) unless they did not first come up against Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra). Thus, he was the bravest of all.”

Hazrat Ali (ra) states:

“On one occasion, I saw the Quraish had caught hold of the Holy Prophet (sa); one person was taking out all his anger on him, while another person was troubling him. They were saying, ‘You say that there is only One God and forsake all others.’ By Allah, whoever would approach the Holy Prophet (sa), Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) would strike them and they would flee or he would reproach them and move them away. He would say, ‘May you be ruined!’

أَتَقْتُلُوْنَ‭ ‬رَجُلًا‭ ‬أَنْ‭ ‬يَّقُوْلَ‭ ‬رَبِّيَ‭ ‬اللّٰهُ‬‬‬‬‬

“‘Will you slay the man because he says, “My Lord is Allah?”’”

Hazrat Ali (ra) then pulled his cloak and cried so profusely that his beard became drenched. Hazrat Ali (ra) then said, “I ask you in the name of God, was the believing man from among the people of Pharaoh better or Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra)?”

Perhaps Hazrat Ali (ra) referred to the believing man from among the people of Pharaoh because this verse of the Quran refers to that person from among the people of Pharaoh who had concealed his faith. In the court of Pharaoh, he said:

أَتَقْتُلُوْنَ رَجُلًا أَنْ يَّقُوْلَ رَبِّيَ اللّٰهُ

Upon this, everyone fell silent. Hazrat Ali (ra) then said, “By Allah! Even one hour of Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) was better than the virtuous deeds of the believer from among Pharaoh’s people, even if his deeds filled the entire earth. This is because that individual concealed his faith, but he (i.e. Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra)) openly announced his faith.”

(Abu Bakr Siddiq Shakhasiyyatahu Asarahu, Dr Muhammad Ali Al-Sallabi, p. 38, Dar-e-Ibn Kathir, Beirut, 2003)

The Promised Messiah’s (as) Narration

The Promised Messiah (as) states:

“Once, the enemies found the Holy Prophet (sa) alone and tied a belt around his neck and began tightening it. He was on the brink of death when coincidentally Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) came there and with great difficulty he managed to release him. Upon this, Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) was beaten so severely that he fell to the ground and lost consciousness.”

(Chasma-e-Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 23, pp. 257-258)

Hazrat Musleh Mau’d’s (ra) Narration

Hazrat Musleh-e-Maud (ra) states:

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 7, pp. 63-64)

Narration 1

Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra), while speaking about Hazrat Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair being sent as a missionary to Medina and also in regard to the services he rendered, states:

“The Holy Prophet (sa) began to receive revelation which hinted the near possibility of migration from Mecca. Some idea of the place they were to migrate to was also given to him. It was a town of wells and date-groves. Initially, the Holy Prophet (sa) thought of Yamamah as the location of migration, but soon the thought was dismissed. The Holy Prophet (sa) then waited in the assurance that whatever place they were destined to go to would certainly become the cradle of Islam.

“During this time, the annual Hajj drew near and from all parts of Arabia, pilgrims began to arrive in Mecca. As was his practise, the Holy Prophet (sa) went wherever he found a group of people, expounded to them the teaching of the One God and told them to give up excesses of all kinds and prepare for the Kingdom of God. Some listened with interest and then left. Some wished to listen but were sent away by the Meccans. Some who had already made up their minds, stopped to ridicule. The Holy Prophet (sa) was in the valley of Mina when he saw a group of six or seven people, who were the citizens of Medina.

“He found that they belonged to the Khazraj tribe, one in alliance with the Jews. He asked them if they would listen to what he had to say. Since these people had heard of the Holy Prophet (sa) and were interested, they agreed and sat in his company. The Holy Prophet (sa) spent some time telling them that the Kingdom of God was at hand, that idols were going to disappear, that the idea of One God was due to triumph, and piety and purity were once again going to rule. Would they not, in Medina, welcome the Message? The group became much impressed. They accepted the Message and promised, on their return to Medina, to confer with others and report the following year whether Medina would be willing to receive Muslim refugees from Mecca. Subsequently, they returned and conferred with their friends and relations. There were, at the time, two Arab and three Jewish tribes at Medina. The Arab tribes were the Aus and the Khazraj and the Jewish tribes were the Banu Quraizah, the Banu Nazir and the Banu Qaynuqah. The Aus and the Khazraj were at war. The Quraizah and the Nazir were in alliance with the Aus and the Qaynuqah were with the Khazraj. Tired of unending warfare, they were inclined to peace. At last they agreed to acknowledge the Khazraj Chief, Abdullah bin Ubayy bin Salool, as King of Medina. Since they had alliances with the Jews, the Aus and the Khazraj had heard of prophecies in the Bible. When the Jews would speak of their troubles and affliction, they would also mention that they had heard of the advent of a Prophet ‘like unto Moses.’ This advent was near at hand, the Jews used to say and that it was to mark their return to power and the destruction of their enemies.

“When the people of Medina, who had travelled for the pilgrimage, heard of the Holy Prophet’s (sa) claim, the truth of the claim penetrated their hearts and realised that this was the very Prophet who they had heard about from the Jews. Many young men were impressed by the truthfulness of the Holy Prophet’s (sa) teaching and the prophecies which they had previously heard from the Jews helped them in believing in the Holy Prophet (sa).

“At the next Hajj, twelve men from Medina came to Mecca with the intention to join the Holy Prophet’s (sa) faith. Ten of these belonged to the Khazraj and two to the Aus tribe. They met the Holy Prophet (sa) in the valley of Mina and, holding the Holy Prophet’s (sa) hand, solemnly declared their belief in the Oneness of God and their resolve to abstain from all common evils and immoralities, such as theft, killing their daughters, and from making false accusations against one another. They also resolved to obey the Prophet (sa) in all good things.

“When they returned to Medina, they started telling others of their new faith with even greater zeal. The idols from the houses of Medina were taken out of their homes and thrown on the streets. Those who used to bow before images began to hold their heads high. They resolved to bow to none except the One God. The Jews wondered. Centuries of friendship, exposition and debate had failed to produce the change which Islam had produced in a few days and the message of the One God penetrated into the hearts of the people of Medina.

“The people of Medina would go to the few Muslims in their midst and make enquiries about Islam and ask them to teach them their faith. But the few Muslims could not cope with the large numbers of enquiries, nor did they know enough about its teaching. They decided, therefore, to address a request to the Holy Prophet (sa) to send them someone to teach Islam. The Holy Prophet (sa) agreed to send Mus‘ab (ra), one of the Muslims who had returned from the migration to Abyssinia. Thus, Mus‘ab (ra) was the first missionary of Islam to go out of Mecca.”

(Dibacha Tafsir-ul-Quran, Anwar-ul-Ulum, Vol. 20, pp. 214-216)

Narration 2

At another occasion, whilst speaking on the same subject, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) has stated:

“When the people of Medina came to know about Islam, some of them met the Holy Prophet (sa) during the pilgrimage of Hajj and became convinced of his truthfulness. They returned to their people and said to them that the Messenger whose advent the Jews of Medina used to speak of had taken place in Mecca. Hence, their hearts became inclined towards the Holy Prophet (sa) and, at the following Hajj, they sent a delegation to the Holy Prophet (sa). After a brief discussion, this delegation professed their belief and pledged their allegiance to the Holy Prophet (sa).

“Since the Holy Prophet (sa) was facing fierce opposition in Mecca at the time, this meeting took place in a valley away from the sight of the Meccans. As the Bai‘at also took place there, it is referred to as Bai‘at Aqabah.” “Aqabah” means a valley or a mountain that is difficult to manoeuvre through or a difficult mountainous path.

“The Holy Prophet (sa) gave this delegation the duty of organising the believers of Medina and advised them to propagate Islam. He sent one of his young companions, Mus‘ab (ra) bin Umair to assist them and to teach the faith to the Muslims … Before departing, the delegation also extended an invitation to the Holy Prophet (sa) saying, should he ever need to leave Mecca, he should come to Medina. When these people returned to Medina, Islam spread in Medina within a very short period of time. Hence, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent some more companions to them, including Hazrat Umar (ra) … After that, upon receiving the command to migrate, he himself also went to Medina. Upon his arrival, all the idolaters of Medina accepted Islam within a very short period of time.”

(Tafsir-e-Kabir, Vol. 1, pp. 171) (Farhang Sirat, p. 203, Aqabah, Zawwar Academy Publications, Karachi [2003])

There is an incident of the Holy Prophet (sa) admonishing his close relatives in accordance with the commandment of Allah the Almighty. Hazrat Baraa (ra) bin Azib relates that when the following verse of the Holy Quran was revealed to the Messenger (sa) of Allah:

وَأَنْذِرْ‭ ‬عَشِيْرَتَكَ‭ ‬الْأَقْرَبِيْنَ‬‬

“And warn thy nearest kinsmen” [Ch.26: V.215] the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed Hazrat Ali (ra) to prepare one saa of food and also a leg of a she-goat and according to another narration, it was one mud instead of a saa. There are four mud in one saa which is approximately 2.5 seir or 2.5 kilograms. It also states here that in Kufa and Iraq, the measurement of one saa is equal to eight mud, which is approximately 4.5 seir. But regardless of whether it was 2.5 seir or 4 seir, the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed for the food to be prepared in this small quantity and also instructed for a bowl of milk to be prepared and to then gather the people of Banu Abdil Muttalib.

Hazrat Ali (ra) stated, “I did exactly as I was instructed and approximately 40 people gathered. The Holy Prophet’ssa uncles, Abu Talib, Hamzah, Abbas and Abu Lahb were also present. I presented the large tray of food before them. The Messenger (sa) of Allah took a small piece of meat and broke it with his teeth and placed its pieces on the edges of the tray in order to bless the food. The Messenger (sa) of Allah then invited them to eat in the name of Allah and everyone ate to their fill.

“I swear by Allah, the food I presented before them was sufficient only for one person. Thereafter, the Holy Prophet (sa) instructed me to give everyone something to drink. I brought the bowl of milk and they all drank from it to their fill. And I swear by Allah that the amount I presented was only sufficient for one person to drink. When the Holy Prophet (sa) decided to address everyone present in the gathering, Abu Lahab quickly interjected and said, ‘Look at how your fellow tribesman has cast a spell upon you all.’ Upon this, everyone dispersed and the Messenger (sa) of Allah was unable to address them.

“The next day, the Messenger (sa) of Allah, stated, ‘O Ali, prepare the same food and drink as you had prepared yesterday.’ I did just that and gathered everyone and the Messenger (sa) of Allah blessed the food in exactly the same manner as he did the previous day. Everyone then ate and drank to their fill. Thereafter, the Messenger (sa) of Allah stated, ‘O Banu Abdil Muttalib, I do not know of any young man from among the Arabs who has conveyed a better message than what I bring to you. I convey to you a message regarding this world and the Hereafter. Who will assist me in this regard?’”

Hazrat Ali (ra) further states, “Upon hearing this, everyone fell silent. I then submitted, ‘O Messenger (sa) of Allah, despite the fact I am younger than everyone present here, I will be your helper.’”

(Mustafa Abd al-Wahid, Subul al-Huda wa al-Rashad fi Sirat Khair al-Ibad, Vol. 2 [Beirut, Lebanon: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 1993], 324) (Lughat al-Hadith, Vol. 2, p. 648, zair-e-lafz “sa”)

The Promised Messiah (as) states:

(Chasma-e-Ma‘rifat, Ruhani Khazain, Vol. 23, pp. 257-258)

Darul Arqam was a house that belonged to Arqam bin Arqam, who had newly accepted Islam and was situated at the outskirts of Mecca. It served as a centre where Muslims would gather, learn about their faith and worship. Owing to this recognition, it was also known by the name of Darus Salam [The Abode of Peace]. This served as the centre [for Muslims] in Mecca for three years wherein they would discreetly worship and also where the Holy Prophet (sa) held gatherings.

Later, when Hazrat Umar (ra) accepted Islam, they began openly professing their faith. According to the traditions, Hazrat Umar (ra) was the last person to accept Islam at that centre.

(Sirat Khatam-un-Nabiyyeen, Hazrat Mirza Bashir Ahmad Sahib M.A., p. 129).