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O' Level ISLAMIYAT for Cambridge Examinations
Abdullah Ansari
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O' Level textbook for Islamiyat. Compiled by Dr. Iftikhar ul Haq and Maulvi Jahangir Mahmud Recommended for Cambridge IGCSE® Islamiyat Code 0493
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O' Level ISLAMIYAT a for Cambridge Examinations by Dr. Iftikhar ul Haq & Maulvi Jahangir Mahmud B 4 BooklandTitle: 0 Level ISLAMIYAT for Cambridge Examinations 1st Edition: 2008 © Bookland: 2008. The moral rights of the authors have been asserted: All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the publishers. Authors! Contact: Dr. Iftikhar ul Haq 0333- 4257013 Maulvi Jahangir Mahmud —0321- 4460606 Mailing Address: 279-B, P.C.H.S., Lahore Cantt. 54792, Pakistan. Email: jahangir@wol.net.pk Designed & Published by; Bookland, 16-Urdu Bazar, Lahore, Pakistan. Phone: +92 42 7124656, Fax: 92 42 7231377 Email; info@bookland.com.pk URL: www.bookland.com.pk Printed in Pakistan Publisher's Note: The publisher would invite brains around in search of a flourishing outlet or a productive platform to project their works on any subject at any level to visit us. a T aieDedicated to Rasul Allah2#', the Greatest Teacher of all times.Acknowledgements All praise and thanks are for Allah, the Sustainer of the worlds. Rasul allan? said, "He who does not thank his benefactor, does not thank Allah." 'We would like to thank all those who contributed to this work; family, friends, colleagues and especially M/s Bookland, whose efforts and involvement made this book possible. JazakAllah Khairun. May Allah lead us to the right path and Bless our efforts. (Aamin!) The authorsPreface All praise is for Allah, Sustainer of the worlds, and peace and blessings be on the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad/ia" , and his progeny and all his companions. O! Level ISLAMIYAT for Cambridge Examinations for the students preparing for O Level is here. A lot of effort and hard work has gone into preparing the textbook accordirig to the new syllabus as per 2009 and onward examinations. Many teachers will remember our book 'Comprehensive 0" Level Islamiyat' and recall its merits. This new book is also a humble attempt to help teachers and students in their academic endeavors. InshaAllah, all would agree that this revolutionary format makes their study and preparatory revision far easier. While compiling and meeting the textual requirements, every endeavor has been made to maintain all the parameters of the language as well. We would welcome and acknowledge with gratitude any constructive feedback necessary for the improvements, in future editions. All good in this book is from Allah, and any lapses and omissions are on our part. tte r 4 xe es USS The authorsvill Unit Description History and Importance of the Ahadith Hadith & Sunnah... Sunnah & Hadith as a Source of Isl Sample Questions. 'The period of rule of the 'Rightly Guided' caliphs and their importance as leaders. The First Caliph Hazrat Abu Bakr bin Abu Quhafa. 'The Second Caliph Hazrat Umar bin al-Khattab.. The Third Caliph Hazrat Uthman bin ' Affa The Fourth Caliph Hazrat Ali bin Abi Tali Government & Administration under the Rightly Sample Questions. Articles of Faith & Pillars of Islam Belief in the Hereafter (Life after Deat Belief in Prophet and Messengers. Belief in Angels.. Belief in the Revealed Books.. Belief in the Divine Decree. Jihad. 'Sample Questions. Page # 194 194 199 214 242 245 259 264 267 273 276 278 281 283 285 288 295Major Themes of the Quranic Passages2 ©? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Allah in Himself Ayat Al Kursi 2:255 Ope 25) on lable SNS eeu EYS SOT aya Natl GINA GLZ3on SI GEES ARE Df ICS Lestiasbyilshestly BAUS Ss CBE SENG CES Soil The Main Theme(s) Inthe name of Allah, most Gracious, Most Merciful. Allah! There is no God but He, the Living, the Self-subsisting. Neither slumber nor sleep can seize Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Who will intercede with Him except by His Leave? He knows what is in front of them and what is behind them, While they encompass nothing of His Knowledge, except what He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, And He is never weary of preserving them. And He is the Sublime, the Supreme. This passage describes the concept of Tawhid with respect to Allah's matchless attributes, Tawhid means absolute oneness of Allah both inUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 3 entity and attributes. Since He is the Creator and Lord of the whole universe, nothing is beyond the domain of Allah and none can escape His knowledge. Thus He is perfectly unique and matchless and this makes Him immensely supreme and exalted. The Presentation of the Theme. The passage focuses on Allah's attributes that no one can share. These include His being above all human needs and weaknesses. He is everliving. He does not depend on anyone for survival but is the ultimate source of survival for all. His knowledge, like His power, is unbounded and He is absolutely autonomous in all His decrees. The whole universe symbolises His authority and the Quran repeatedly acknowledges this. For example: "Blessed be He in whose hands is dominion; and He has power over all things" (67:1) The passage mentions Tawhid in terms of His attributes as against Surah 112 that mentions uniqueness of Allah. Surah Al Anaam 6: 101 to 103 opel Hable AUIS Sos a of, Sea Lege Te OO Re San aisraks PRANKS Ay BAP ES OLGA Kesh BAIS TA4 © Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations 101. To Him is due the primal origin of the heavens and the earth: how can He have a son when He has no consort? 102. He created all things, and He has full knowledge of all things. That is Allah, your Lord! There is no god but He, the Creator of all things: then worship Him: and He has power to dispose of all affairs. 103. No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all visions: He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things. The Main Theme(s) These three verses describe the belief of Tawhid with powerful arguments by Allah, They negate any association of partners with Allah in any form. They mention His power to originate, create and decide all affairs and His ultimate power and knowledge. All these aspects support and prove His being the Great, and justify our inability to bring His person or nature, into the limited confines of our imagination or intellect. The Presentation of the Theme. = The doctrine of Tawhid is based on Allah's power of creating His domain out of nothing and by His single command, "Be" (36:82). Exercise of this power explains Allah's immense power and unlimited knowledge and demands us to demonstrate our belief by bowing down before Him in all submission and worship like the other creations: "And the stars and the trees both bow in adoration" (Surah 55).Unit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 5 This further negates any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah), specially associating any relatives with Him. Surah 112 more emphactically and explicitly refutes the corrupted idea of assuming descendants of Allah, Such degree of uniqueness of Allah renders our imagination just helpless to comprehend His entity. Surah Fussilat 41. 37- 39 op ehh dle tucty as JARs dthatloss SA MYR eye BNC SBE Bua als SOE bs SA Maar SoHE sf ys ASE) 37. Among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Adore not the sun and the moon, but adore Allah, who created them, if it is Him you wish to serve. 38. But if people are arrogant, in the presence of your Lord are those who celebrate His praises by night and by day. And they never grow tired. 39. And among His signs is this: you see the earth barren and desolate, but when We send down rain to it, it is stirred to life and yields increase. Truly, He who gives life to the earth can surely give life to those who are dead, for He has power over all things6 0 Level islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The Main Theme(s) Various objects and phenomena in nature are reflection of Allah's power and means of identifying Him. All heavenly bodies and the earth with its potential of productivity are creations of the Almighty Who is the Creator of all. Therefore, we need to express our relationship with our Creator and Lord by first identifying the relationship between the Creator and the creation and then expressing this identity by worshipping Him alone. He Himself never runs short of those of His servants who remain busy in praising and serving Him. The Presentation of the Theme. All sources of life and activity in the universe are under Allah's control and bear witness to His creative power. The Sun, the Moon and the cycle of day and night simply display the ultimate controlling power of Allah (36:39- 40) as well as signify His glory (10:6). Fertility of land with its dependence on rain sent by Allah symbolises His great power to give life to the dead on the Day of Judgement. The Quran further supports this by saying: "and again He will give you life"(30:40) An appreciation of this makes it binding on us to worship Him alone Who Himself never runs short of the angels who remain busy in His praise all the times. Surah As Shura 42:4to5 ; ogy 25) or Fail Lot) Somsislatehsrenshseal 9717 39,26,9700 28d SNA TES GoUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 7 4. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth: and He is most High, most Great. 5. The heavens are almost rent asunder from above them, and the angels celebrate the praises of their Lord, and pray for forgiveness for beings on earth: Behold! Verily Allah is He, the oft- Forgiving, the most Merciful The Main Theme(s) These verses discuss Allah's overlordship and supremacy over the entire universe. Just like His unlimited powers, there is no dearth of those who praise and glorify Him. There are countless angels, Allah's most ob-dient creatures, who are busy all the time in sanctifying their Lord and begging His mercy for the whole mankind. They seek His compassion because they know that Allah is the symbol of mercy and forgiveness and that this attribute of Allah excels all His other attributes. The Presentation of the Theme. Allah is the sole and unassisted owner of the whole universe and this aspect of Allah makes Him absolutely supreme and dignified. Such an elevated status demands of His creatures to bow down before Him and8 0" Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations keep themselves busy in His praise by a variety of means. Angels in this regard surpass all other creatures of Allah since they have been divinely programmed to keep acknowledging Allah's power, goodness and great awe. However, knowing that Allah is all mercy and forgiveness they also supplicate before Him for granting pardon and favour to humans. Surah al-Qadr (97) mentions this activity of angels in the Night of Power. Similarly Surah al-Nahl (16:49-50) and Surah al-Ghafir (40:7) also narrate the same about the angels. For example 40:7 says: "Those who sustain the Throne and those around it sing glory and praise to their Lord." Surah Al-Ikhlas 112: 1-4 2 % ' 22Gb 2 ope | or la! Lo), ZYI(Hat eI ae G L4G r-tol-R AL BSBA DSCLBIAUSAST AIS IS LO ATA 2 Yate > %8 ESAS I In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful. Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Absolute (the Eternal). He does not beget nor is He begotten, And there is none like Him. The Main Theme(s) The Surah summarises the doctrine of Tawhid or absolute oneness of Allah. Tawhid means that Allah is absolutely one in entity as well as in attributes. It further tells that Allah is not only One, He is also unique. The Surah speaks of the unique status of Allah which is beyond the scope of human imagination. This Surah serves as an antidote to every form and possibility of shirk (associating partners with Allah).Unit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 9 The Presentation of the Theme. The Surah highlights the distinctive and incomparable nature of Allah. It focuses on Allah's matchless entity and His being above the limitations of time and space, a fact that is supported by this Quranic verse: 'He is the First and the Last" (57:3). This means that Allah has been in existence since eternity. It also mentions that it does not behove Allah to have any kind of family tree or progeny and thus negates all the corrupted beliefs about Him that were held by the misguided communities. All this makes Him an entity that is simply beyond human comprehension. Another verse of the Quran endorses by saying: "No vision can grasp Him but He grasps all visions" (6:103) Allah's relationship with the created world Surah Al-Fatiha 1:1-7 Opel p25 abl any PEEL GS hcl Sel 253 cle done Gh 3G 55 retest Elta! Gy! Bb gE ESI 5 OTIS one Vy) In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds,10 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Most Gracious, most Merciful, Master of the Day of Judgment. You alone we worship, and Your aid we seek. Show us the straight way, The way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, those whose portion is not wrath, and who go not astray, The Main Theme(s) This is the opening Surah of the Quran and its theme is Tauheed or absolute oneness of Allah, and men's relationship with Allah. It tells us that Allah alone deserves worship because He has power to ensure sustenance of all, extend mercy to all and dispense ultimate justice. We need to seek His guidance in order to earn His favour and avoid the ill fate of misguided communities. This guidance is contained in the Quran and the Prophet's Sunnah. The Presentation of the Theme. The focal point of the Surah is the. guidance in the light of which man can guarantee success for himself in this world and the Hereafter. This guarantee lies in treading the path of righteousness designed and shownUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages rT by Allah as contained in the Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet. This path has been given the name in 3:103 as 'the Rope of Allah" that ensures collective survival of the believers. The Surah also stresses on seeking Allah's help and compassion in all affairs of life because Allah alone is the source of help. He maintains all forms of life including those that are beyond our imagination. The last two Surahs of the Quran (al- Muawwazatain) provide similar guarantee by asking the believers to seek Allah's refuge against all evils. Surah Bagara 2: 21-22 ee SEE SRA AONE st Saosin SK icon eC IES Th cea oCLIGAST Sab ed BoA, 21. O people! Adore your Guardian-Lord, who created you and those who came before you, so that you may have the chance to learn righteousness; 22. Who has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent down rain from the heavens; and by it brought forth fruits for your sustenance; then do not set up rivals to Allah, when you know.12 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The Main Theme(s) These two verses describe some of Allah's special bounties for the whole mankind that provide certain essential means of sustenance. The verses particularly mention the productivity of the earth, the protective shield provided by the heavens and the virtue of rain to activate the process of production of variety of fruits. The main purpose of mentioning these visible favours of Allah remind the mankind to worship Allah and to lead a righteous life. The Presentation of the Theme. Man needs to acknowledge bounties of Allah by way of expressing gratitude to Him and by bowing down before Him. The whole mankind, the heavens and the earth with their respective roles of serving mankind are the greatest signs of Allah's creative power and His relation with His creatures. Now it is man's duty to identify his Lord by worshipping none but Him, by praising Him through regular prayers and by obeying the rules of conduct determined by Him. This is the greatest benefit of belief in Tawhid - developing Taqwa or piety and refuting shirk. For the same reason a whole Surah of the Quran, Surah 55 (al-Rahman) repeatedly asks mankind to acknowledge the countless blessings of Allah. Surah Al Alaq 96; 1-5 og Blok Habla SA AIGE RES GN E5 mAbs) afd ae oid Nak sIs ge sdosleocnhise tfccateregeded Ubod Soca! And gourd max bountiful, 4. He who taught by the pen, 5. Taught man what he did not know.Unit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 13 The Main Theme(s) This is part of the first ever revelation sent to the Last Messenger of Allah. It mentions two of Allah's most important attributes and these are: His creating man and then bestowing knowledge upon him. Man has been asked by Allah to acknowledge His great favours that make man superior to all other creations. Allah prefected man through various stages of development and finally enabled him to read and write with the help of pen. The Presentation of the Theme. These verses address the Holy Prophet and remind him of the exclusive favour of Allah by creating Adam and then granting him the faculty of knowledge that elevated his status even above angels. This superiority of Adam was due to awarding him specially designed body and mind Human ability of holding and making use of pen are supportive evidence in this regard. The Quran, in other verses, refers to Allah's great award to Adam and his progeny. For example: "And He (Allah) taught Adam the names of all things" (2:31) Finally, the mention of knowledge and pen together in the passage conveys to us the intimate link between the two and their importance for all humans.14 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations | Surah ZilZal 99; 1-8 | opr 2g Bahl oy BMV eMAIV EM AUG, OS AAEDECA IESE SMA IGE TESS WSE SS IB ASDA ACEH SBE eo AC OSSOo en Unit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages. 15 1. When the earth is shaken to her utmost convulsion, 2. And the earth throws up her burdens, 3. And man cries out: 'What is the matter with her, 4. On that day will she declare her tidings: 5. For that your Lord will have given her inspiration. 6. On that day will men proceed in companies sorted out, to be shown their deeds. 7. Then shall anyone who has done an atom's weight of good see it! 8. And anyone who has done an atom's weight of evil shall see it. The Main Theme(s) The Surah narrates the signs of onset of the Day of Judgement and the events unfolding in its aftermath. The Day will mark the end of time and begin by an intense shaking of the earth that will lead to utter chaos. All this will be by the command of its Creator, Allah Almighty. By this command again, all humans will be brought before Him to stand accountable for all their worldly deeds. Their fate will be determined on the basis of their performance in the worldly existence. This will be done by showing them all their deeds or misdeeds. The Presentation of the Theme. Belief in the Hereafter is one of the fundamentals of Islam. Allah has created this universe according to His own plan and will bring it to an end 'on one particular day. That day will begin by the blow of Trumpet by angel Israfil. and that will cause extremely violent shaking of earth which will eject all the dead in it. The next phase will be marked by all humans standing answerable before their Creator Lord who will show the minutest details of each and every deed of His creatures so that none could deny the divine justice. The Quran presents many other signs of the Day of Reckoning with reference to certain other aspects. For example al-Infitar (The Cleaving Asunder), al-Inshiqag (The Rending Asunder) and al-Takwir (The folding up of the sun).16 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Surah Al-Nas 114: 1-6 Op oh SB dbl ee ty, Jor Ged oT8 SSIS AEN eS Get SABE MSP UB IASG ts In the name of Allah, most Gracious most Merciful Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of Mankind, the King of Mankind, the Allah of Mankind, from the evil of the whisperer who withdraws, who whispers in the hearts of Mankind, from Among Jinn and Mankind. The Main Theme(s) This is the last Surah of the Quran and is partner to the preceding Surah (Al-Falaq). Both Surahs teach the believers to find Allah's protection against all evil forces. This Surah focuses on three important aspects of man's relation with Allah. Allah alone is to be acknowledged as the sole Sustainer and Supreme over all humans and, therefore, He is only to be worshipped. Developing these bonds of association with Allah will help a believer to guard against the incursion of Satan and his host of men and "Jinnaat" who are bent upon attacking the faith of believers. The Presentation of the Theme. The Surah primarily addresses the Prophet" to seek protection of Allah Almighty against the evil effect of the magic spell cast on him by his enemies. Through the Prophet/#, its teachings extend to all believers who are required to ward off all possible evils that are aimed at distractingUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages w7 them from the Right Path. Believers are to remember that Allah alone is the Master Lord and Monarch of all humans and, therefore, has full powers to undo all evil forces crafted by Satan. They should also remember that Satan may attack their faith through his assistant jinnaat and men who, according to 6:112, accomplish their unholy mission by inspiring one another with adorned speech as a delusion', Allah's Messengers Surah Bagara 2: 30 to 37 Op el yh lable ty PLE PNG deBary 163); KARAS UIA I SRA SA LBS ESOP HSE Bee reese wala SIB TEL Hoe Rl a cicslas ee tyl PEACH MOS ese AeOo pal OOK Bch ge SSSA as yisoerlacyclss)s Cibo wiscercken CHES CSE NE EEICLS:18 ? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations CURIA Cook Cablags ee '. G Fan? eo Msi eal eae Lh . de (Hegfe 3 eesthes BNNs D7 GH Sik nArk Ce tb TK ee Ns 2 ort Heer Blgb 8 orl OB eb 5 crseal 30. Behold, your Lord said to the angels: 'I will create a vicegerent on earth.' They said: Will You place there one who will make mischief there and shed blood?- whilst we celebrate your praises and glorify your holy (name)?! He said: 'I know what you do not know. 31. And He taught Adam the names of all things; then He placed them before the angels, and said: 'Tell me the names of these if you are right.' 32. They said: 'Glory to You, of knowledge we have none, save what You have taught us: In truth it is You who are perfect in knowledge and wisdom.' 33. He said: 'Adam! Tell them their names.' When he had told them, Allah said: 'Did I not tell you that | know the secrets of heavens and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?'34. And behold, We said to the angels: Bow down to Adam'. And they bowed down. Not so Iblis: he refused and was haughty: he was of those who reject faith. 35. We said: 'Adam! You and your wife dwell in the Garden; and eat of the bountiful things in it as You wish. But do not approach this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression.' 36. Then Satan made them slip from there, and got them out of what they had been in We said: 'Go down, with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling- place and your means of livelihood, for a time.' 37. Then Adam learnt from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord turned towards him; for He is Often- returning, most Merciful. The Main Theme(s) These verses describe the divine scheme of the creation of Adam#2s, prostration of angels before him, defiance of Iblis and Adam's stay in and eventual exile from Paradise. Iblis proved to be disobedient to Allah and was cursed forever. He refused to acknowledge the superiority awarded to aneUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 19 Adam by Allah who had gifted him with knowledge. He later lured Adam and Eve to transgress the limits defined by Allah as a result of which they had to leave for their worldly abode. Allah finally granted pardon to Adam after his appeal for mercy and forgiveness but warned him of the challenges and responsibilities of the worldly life. The Presentation of the Theme(s) Adam was created as the most superior creature of Allah in order to bestow upon him the status of vicegerent and the ability to acquire knowledge. All angels, except Iblis (who was a jinn), acknowledged Adam's superiority (18:50). Defiance by Iblis came as a warning for the human race to beware of his evil mission that he started by luring Adam# and Eve to violate Allah's command. This also shows the inherent weakness that is part of man's instinct (20:115). The errors and sins committed by man can be forgiven after confession and entreating forgiveness by God as was implored by Adam. We have wronged ourselves, and if you do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among losers" (7:23)20 ©' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Surah Al Anaam (6: 75-79) ~ Opel gh Sabla ey CK Messe ke awh Gauss PIE Make Galicia vibe ECB ReA eA TEMES PESIG Gale IEG EBS GOSS BOGS LM CB Obss BM eho cass 75. So also did We show Abraham the power and the laws of the heavens and the earth, so that he might have certainty. 76. When the night covered him over, he saw a star: He said: "This is my Lord.' But when it set, he said: 'I do not love things that set.' 77. When he saw the moon rising in splendour, he said: "This is my Lord.' But when the moon set, he said: 'Unless my Lord guides me, | will surely be among those who go astray.' 78. When he saw the sun rising in splendour, he said: 'This is my Lord; this is the greatest.' But when the sun set, he said: 'O my people! I am indeed free from your giving partners to Allah.' 79. 'For me, I have set my face firmly and truly towards Him who created the heavens and the earth, and never shall I give partners to Allah.' The Main Theme(s) These verses describe Prophet Ibraheem's*% attempt to recognise Allah by way of some of the marvels of nature. Ibraheem( observed the rise and the setting in of stars, the moon and the sun in order to identify his Lord, the Creator of all. He was convinced that the Lord Almighty is ever- livingUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 21 and is free from any decline. Finally, he reached his goal of realizing the Oneness and supremacy of Allah. He began to preach to his people about Tawhid and tried to dissuade them from Shirk or associating partners with Allah. The Presentation of the Theme. Like other messengers¥# of Allah, Ibraheem was also nurtured spiritually for the formal awarding of Prophethood. Unlike Musa who witnessed a Holy Fire (28:30) to receive Prophethood or Jesus who began to show prophetic signs while in his cradle (5:110), lbraheemt# reached the ultimate goal of prophethood after closely observing the shine and fade of heavenly bodies. He firmly professed Tawhid and shunned shirk before starting his prophetic mission. Allah thus strengthened the faith of His chosen servant by showing him the contrast between the temporary shine of the creation and the eternal glow of the Creator. The Creator Lord is the source of all light and brightness. Surah Al Maida 5: 110 Os 2 gh Hable ty SEL aE BAH Heth SE HBR AB eae STV AGS Ss Is aI SaESS SIG Ge ABAAT AB -2Pbsas ey) BASES Ss SSL PA ME ES CHENF LIER GL BN BNIB yee As BTR obit ra LbG| alts22 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Then will Allah say: 'Jesus son of Mary! Recount my favour to you and to your mother. Behold! strengthened you with the holy spirit, so that you spoke to the people in childhood and in maturity, Behold! | taught you the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel. And behold! You make out clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by my leave, and you breathe into it and it becomes a bird by my leave, and you heal those born blind, and the lepers, by my leave. And behold! You bring forth the dead by my leave. And behold! I restrained the Children of Israel from you when you showed them the clear signs, and the unbelievers among them said 'This is nothing but evident magic' The Main Theme(s) This verse describes Allah's address to Jesus Christ, one of His messengersi##. Like other prophetic messengers, Jesus was also granted certain prophetic signs that distinguished him from ordinary mortals. Allah reminds him of his miraculous birth, his ability to speak in infancy, treat the leper and the blind and give life to the non-living. He also received divine wisdom in the form of Torah and Gospel. The objective of granting such unusual powers to Allah's chosen people is to strengthen them internally and prepare them to face opposition by their people. Modern day Bethlehem, the birth place of Esa #Unit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 23 The Presentation of the Theme. Allah will remind Jesus Christ® of His special favour on him in the presence of his community, the Children of Israel, when the Final Court of Judgement will be set up. These people had refused to believe in Jesus as messenger of Allah. This means that the rejectors of faith are bound to deny divinity even when shown the clear signs. Jesus was gifted with several miraculous powers including his miraculous birth (19:20), unusual powers and the holy script (3:48) but his people continued to deny all. Thus, Jesus was both a responsible minister of divine mission and a man with limitations. The unbelievers forgot their final accountability before Allah. Surah Al-Duha 93: 1-11 2 © 4 Se, . a ope leot Hatley, 2 ge x o o SEZ SESS OASIS SAO RBIS 217) 8 Z9eK ew We 7 A192 2 AALS NG WIEBE HAE Hanes DEES HCC Bog 1S BEE? y so BOLE Siss8 OIE A220 6 Lk KA? oF SSC LUIS ZS SOS Cy rR ALIS In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful. By the Glorious Morning Light, And by the Night when it is still Your Lord has not forsaken you, nor is He displeased. And indeed, the Hereafter will be better for you, than the present and soon your Lord will give to you, and you will24 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations be well pleased. Did He not find you an orphan and gave you shelter? And He found you wandering, and He gave you guidance. And He found you in need, and made you Independent, Therefore do not treat the orphan with harshness, nor repulse the petitioner (unheard); but proclaim the bounty of your Lord. The Main Theme(s) Theme of this Surah is Allah's special care and concern for His chosen people specially in times of crisis and difficulty. Allah's support is as much part of prophetic mission as the trials and tests designed by Him. As a matter of fact, He puts His prophetic messengers into a variety of tests only to bring them closer to Him and thus strengthen their faith. The Presentation of the Theme. The Surah mentions Allah's reassurance for the Holy Prophet #4" who was being mocked by his insultors over an unusual delay in receivingUnit 1: Major Themes of the Quranic Passages 25 revelation. Allah consoled him by reminding him some of His past favours to the Prophets'. These included Prophet's upbringing in special and difficult circumstances, easing his financial strain and, above all, awarding of Prophethood. Allah commanded him to show kindness to the deserving people in order to earn His blessings. Allah had revealed Surah al-Kauthar to console the Prophet when insulting words were being shouted and hurled at him on the death of his second son. This explains Allah's special association with the Holy Prophet". Surah Al-Kauthar 108: 1-3 25819 Dy LCST EY SAVIACELEE! In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful. We have given you the Abundance; Therefore pray to your Lord, and sacrifice. For the one who hates you, he will be cut off (from future hope). The Main Theme(s) Theme of this short Surah is Allah's promise and reassurance for His chosen people (prophetic messengers') in times of hardship and opposition by f) their people. Allah has26 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations promised special favours and rewards for those offering regular prayers and warned of his wrath and worst end for those engaged in insulting and ridiculing special servants of Allah. The Presentation of the Theme. The Surah mentions consolation extended by Allah to the Holy Prophet who felt dejected in the face of mockery by the Mekkans over the death of his second son. Allah promised him abundance of spiritual children in the form of millions of his followers. Allah asked the Prophet to remember Him by regular prayer in order to deserve His special favour. He further, promised destruction of Prophet's/#¥ enemies in the long run. This shows Allah's special care for the Prophet in times of hardship. The Prophet had received Surah al-Duha in somewhat similar conditions when his enemies insulted him over an unusual delay in receiving revelation.History and Importance of the Holy Quran28 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations An Introduction The Quran is the last of the revealed books of Allah. It was sent down to His Last messenger Muhammad/* between the years 610 A.D. to 632 AD. All the heavenly books that Allah revealed were brought along with His other messages to His Prophets' by the Archangel Angel Jibreel#. Hence when Allah willed that the Quran be revealed to the Holy Prophetd*, it was Jibreel who brought the first revelation to him in the Cave of Hira. The Revelation of the Holy Quran The Quran was not revealed to the Holy Prophet" in one incident. It began to be revealed to the Holy Prophet in the cave of Hira in one of the last ten nights of Ramadan in 610 A.D. From time to time, Allah would send down different parts of it as and when He deemed proper. In the next 23 years, the Quran was sent down to the Holy Prophet" bit by bit. Sometimes Allah would reveal several verses, a complete Surah, or sometimes Suwar (pl of Surah). Whenever the Holy Prophet would receive a revelation, he would also be divinely guided arrange the same in the specified sequence of Surahs of the Holy Quran. The order of revelation and the sequence of the Surahs in the Book were not the same, However, both were according to the will of Allah. However, it must be remembered that both of them are from Allah Himself. Methods of Revelation The revelation would reach the Holy Prophet? in different ways on different occasions. These are as follows. LJibreel: The Archangel would usually bring him the message of Allah. This too was in three different ways:- He would appear inhis real form, ie, of the Archangel and speak to him. He would meet him in the form of a man and deliver him the message. He would inspire him in his heart with theUnit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 29 words of the revelation. 2.Dreams: The Prophet's/* dreams are 'Ruya as Sadiqah' or true dreams, meaning whatever Allah showed him in his dreams was Divine Truth and a message from Allah. 3.Divine Sounds: Sometimes the Holy Prophet" would hear the sound of bells ringing or bees buzzing, at the end of which the words of the revelation would be inscribed in his heart. 4,Direct conversation with Allah: The Holy Prophet/i#" was granted the honour of speaking to Allah directly more than once. Divisions in the Types of Verses The Quranic verses are divided into two main categories, Makki (Makkan) and Madani (Madinites). Makki: These are the verses revealed to the Holy Prophet/* during the Makkan phase of his mission, i.e, from 610 AD to 622AD. These Ayat (verses) and Suwar (chapters) have a distinctive subject matter. They are usually recognized by the addressees which are often 'O People!". The language is also majestic and flowery. These Suwar mostly consist of subjects such as, Oneness of Allah, Prophethood, affirmation of the Hereafter, the panorama of the Resurrection, words of comfort for the Holy Prophet and events relating to the past communities. Madani: These are the verses revealed to the Holy Prophet##* the Hijrah, ie the years 622 to 632 AD. The style of the Madani Surahs is comparatively simple. These mostly address (besides the believers) the hypocrites and the 'People of the Book": And the chapters are long and detailed. Now that an Islamic State was being established, the verses revealed were regarding family and social laws, injunctions of jihad and expositions of limits and duties. Themes of the Holy Quran 'We shall study three basic themes of the Quranic verses. These are Ti Allah in Himself his status 2. Allah in His relation to His Creation 3, Allah in relation to His Messengersattributes of Allah. It deals with this theme in a remarkable, concise and convincing manner. Usually certain symbolic expressions and parables have been used for this purpose. For example, Surah An Nur describes Allah as alight', 30 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Allah in Himself The Holy Quran describes and elaborates details about the nature and Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth. The parable of His Light is as if there were a Niche and within it a lamp: the Lamp enclosed in Glass: the Glass as it were a brilliant star: lit from a blessed Tree, an Olive, neither of the East nor of the West, whose Oil is well-nigh luminous, though fire scarce touched it: Light upon Light! Allah doth set forth Parables for men: and Allah doth know all things. (Nur : 35) Moreover the Quran mentions a vast range of attributes of Allah that can not be possessed by His creation. 'Sura Hashr (59) as , 'Allah is He, than whom there is no other god the sovereign, the Holy One, the Source of Peace (and Perfection). the Guardian of Faith, the Preserver of Safety, the Exalted in Might, the Irresistible, the Supreme: Glory to Allah!-(High is He) above the partners they attribute to Him. (23) He is Allah the Creator, the Evolver, the Bestower of Forms (or Colours). To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names: whatever is in the heavens and on earth, declare His Praises and Glory: and He is the exalted in Might, the Wise. (24) Another oft repeated theme is that of Allah's Unmatchable power, "Verily, when He intends a thing, His command is "Be" and it is! (36:82)Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 31 Allah in His relation to His Creation The Holy Quran is replete with descriptions of Allah's relationship with His creation. First of all, it teaches about the status of Allah, that there is none to be worshipped except Him. It declares, "Allah! There is no god but He!"(Verse of the Throne; 2: 255) It also teaches that only to Him is all praise due. He Alone is the Sustainer and to Him all creation will be brought back on the Day of judgement. Many passages and verses endorse the dependence of mankind on the Lord of the Worlds (Surah An-Nas). Man is helpless and utterly lost without his submission to the King of Mankind. é It is He who has provided for all the things that mankind needs to survive in this world. Also an important theme is the significance of learning and knowledge as seen in the very first revelation to the Holy Prophet /i#*(Sura Alaq 1 to 5) This is supported by another verse of Sura Qalam, "By the Pen and that which they write......" The Quran also stresses on the need of developing and strengthening our relationship with Allah by identifying Him and then worshipping none except Him. This is the most important theme of the Quran because it is intimately linked with the individual and collective salvation of man. Allah's worship wards off any form of possibility of shirk (associating partners with Him) and shirk has been declared as the only unpardonable sin. It says: Being true in faith to Allah and never assigning partners to Him: if anyone assigns partners to Allah he is as if he had fallen from heaven and been snatched up by birds or the wind had swooped (like a bird on its prey) and thrown him into a far- distant place (Sura Hajj: 31) Also it states: O you who believe! fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam. (Ale Imran:102) Finally, the Quran categorically warns about bringing an end to world by32 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations the Almighty Allah. Section 30 of the Quran has devoted several full surahs to this important theme. For example, al-Inshiqaq, al-Takwir, al- Infitar and AI Qariah all give detailed description of Qiyamah Allah in relation to His Messengers As far as Allah's Messengers (Rusul) 'are concerned, the Quran has also dealt with this important theme as well. A number of surahs give narrations of His selected Messengersi# while many have been named after different Prophetic Messengers. They include Nuh (71), Ibrahim (14), Hud (11), Yusuf (12), Younus (10) and Muhammad (47). Surah Nuh mentions Nuh as Allah's Messenger and his duties as well: "We sent Noah to his People (with the Command): Do warn your people before there comes to them a grievous Penalty." (Nuh: 1) There is also a description of special prophetic signs granted to Prophet Musa, 'Isaltd and others/##. For example about Musa'. "Move your hand into your bosom, and it will come forth white without stain. (Surah al-Qasas) About Jesus the Quran says: "Then will Allah say: 'Jesus son of Mary! Recount my favour to you and to your mother. Behold! I strengthened you with the holy spirit, so that you spoke to the people in childhood and in maturity, Behold! I taught you the Book and Wisdom, the Law and the Gospel. And behold! You make out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by my leave, and you breathe into it and it becomes a birdUnit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 33 by my leave, and you heal those born blind, and the lepers, by my leave" Also it outlines the mission of a messenger "It is He Who has sent His Messenger with Guidance and the Religion of Truth, that he may proclaim it over all religion: (Surah AsSaff:9) Most importantly, the Quran declares the finality of the Holy Prophet by terming him as the "seal of Prophets" in this verse: 'Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things". (Ahzab: 40) The Compilation of the Holy Quran Since the Holy Quran was not revealed all at once and its different verses were revealed as and when appropriate, so it was neither possible nor practicable from the very beginning to write and preserve it in a book form. Before one can begin to understand the manner in which it was preserved, the amazing memories of the Arab nation must be kept in mind. And of course, the fact that Allah has said: "Verily, it is We Who have sent down this Message and it is We Who shall guard it."(Surah Hijr; 15:9) How the Quran was preserved in the time of the Holy Prophet /#¥ 3 The Quran was revealed to the Holy Prophet" through Jibreel%, who would make sure that he had learnt its verses by heart. Once the Holy Prophet' had memorized the verses, Jibreel* would tell him that these verses should be placed in so and so Surah in so and so order. Thus the order of revelation and the order of the Quran were both as per Allah's instructions and Will. Also, every Ramadan, Jibreel# would hear the recital of the Quran by the Holy Prophet/ia*" (This practice is termed Ardah)34 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations and in the last Ramadan of his life, he performed this act twice. Not only the Holy Prophet", but all his companions were also well aware of this arrangement and thus when they compiled the Quran later in one volume, they were able to accurately follow the arrangment and sequance of such according to the recitation by the Holy Prophets'. When the Holy Prophet had learnt the verses, he would then teach them to his companions', who would also learn them by heart. These Huffazi#! numbered in thousands. They are the main body that preserved the Quran through their amazingly photographic memories that seemed to be commonplace in those times amongst the Arabs. Another group of companions, known as the scribes of the Holy Prophet ##", would write the verses, under his instructions on paper, stone tablets, bones, palm leaves, wooden boards or animal skins. These companions} were about thirty-four in number and included the four rightly guided caliphs, Abdullah bin Mas'ud, Ubayy bin Ka'ab and Zaid bin Thabit#. Thus when the Holy Prophet##* passed on to the next world, the Holy Quran was preserved in partial volumes in writing, but primarily in the hearts of tens of thousands of his companions:#. Preservation and Compilation during the caliphates of Abu Bakr and Umar The Quran was preserved in partial volumes in writing, but primarily was in the hearts of thousands of the companions'. But when a large number of Huffaz (those who had committed the entire Quran to their memory) were killed in the battle of Yamamah, Umar bin Khattabi%, realizing the imminent danger of a similar future tragedy, persuaded Abu Bakri#é: to take urgent steps to put the Quran together in the form of a single book. So, soon after the battle, Abu Bakri#s instructed Zayd bin Thabit' collect the Quran. Abu Bakr appointed a team of seventy-five selected companions to assist Zayd bin Thabit# in this toUnit 2; History and Importance of the Holy Quran 35 noble task but Umar#t contributed the greatest degree of assistance. Zayd used extremely cautious and meticulous techniques in compiling the Quran. He used all the methods available and did not include any verse in his master copy of the Quran unless he had received written and verbal testimonies proving its uninterrupted succession. In addition, the verses that the Prophet had arranged to be written under his own supervision were still preserved by the companions and Zayas collected them together to make the master copy. For this a public proclamation was made to the effect that anyone possessing any number of written verses should bring them to Zayd3%? How Zayd bin Thabit $8 authenticated the verses When a written verse was brought to him, he would verify its authenticity by putting it through four rigorous tests: 1. He tested its reliability against his own memoryand that of other high ranking huffaz. 2. No written verse was accepted until two trustworthy witnesses (companions) had testified to the fact that the particular verse had been written in the presence of the Prophet" 3. The written verses were matched with the collection that different companions'! had prepared for themselves. Each Surah was written in separate folios and so the copy comprised of many folios. In the terminology of the Quran studies the fair copy prepared by Zayd%%? is called the 'Umm' (literally, 'the mother' meaning 'che original). The 'Umm' had the following features: In this the verses were arranged in accordance with the order identified by the Prophet, but the Surahs were not so arranged since these were written separately and the purpose of preparing this copy was to prepare an authenticated document with the collective approval of the whole Ummah (an exercise of 'ima'). The 'Umm' remained with Abu Bakr and after his death with Umari%. After Umar's martyrdom it went in the custody of Hafsahi! (a mother of the faithful and the daughter of Umar)36 O' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations and thus became known as Mus'haf-i-Hafsah. Preservation and Compilation in the period of Uthman bin 'Affandts By the time of Uthman's caliphate Islam had grown well beyond Arabia into the far flung areas of Byzantine and Persia. The new converts of these areas would learn the Quran from the Mujahidin or from the traders and thus the Quran had been learnt by different companions' of the Prophet/#¥ with different accents as the Quran was revealed incorporating seven different dialects. So every companion later taught the Quran to his students in accordance with his own accent. A potential danger Now disputes arose among the new converts of the remote non-Arab territories. Some people insisted on their style of recitation as correct and that of the others as incorrect. On this a noted companion Hudhayfa bin Yamanét? who was busy in Jihad on the Armenia- Azerbaijan front noticed that such differences were leading to disputes. He approached the Caliph Uthman# and told him about the possible danger of the division of the Ummah, He told him that the people of Syria followed the reading of Ubayy bin Ka'ab3i which was not familiar to the people of Iraq and similarly others followed the reading of Abdullah bin Mas'udé which would not be familiar to the people of Syria. The Caliph Takes Action Uthman took immediate action and after taking the learned companions# into confidence he declared that the Believers should unite on a uniform way of recitation. He got the Mus'haf-i- Hafsahi, the original copy prepared by Zaydit and lying in the custody of Hafsahét, and gave it to a team of four companions"! that consisted of Zayd2%®, Abdullah bin Zubayr2%8, Sa'id bin al-A'sr88} and Abd al-Rahman bin Harith# . This group once again painstakingly prepared several copies from the Umm and made sure that surahs, too, were arranged in order.Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 37 Later other companions'? also joined the group of four. The group wrote down all Surah in their proper sequence since in the Umm these had been written separately. Thirdly, instead of one, the group prepared several copies of the Umm. These were sent to Makkah, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain, Basrah, Kufa and one was kept in Madinah. After this Uthmané: got all other copies burnt to ensure perfect uniformity. Uthman, for performing this great job, earned the title of Jami-al- i Quran (the compiler of the Quran). At least two of these originals exist even today, and may be matched word for word with any copy in the world. Tafseer of The Holy Quran | Meaning and Terminology Tafseer is an Arabic word which is derived from the root, ' | 'fassara' which means to "explain" or to "expound". It is best understood as 'explanation' or 'interpretation' of the Quran. Tafseer (pl. Tafaseer) in Islamic terminology means explanation and clarification of the Holy Quran. It means the exegesis or commentary on the Holy Quran. Or simply, it means a detailed explanation of the teachings contained in the Holy Quran. It aims at knowledge and understanding concerning the book of Allah, to explain its meanings, extract its legal rulings and grasp its underlying reasons. Someone who writes tafsir is a mufassir (pl. mufassirin). Evolution of Tafseer The Holy Quran was revealed to Allah's Final Messenger Muhammad over a period of twenty three years. Sometimes Allah would reveal a verse when He deemed fit to explain or ordain His Will, At other times, a situation would arise that required38 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Divine guidance and Allah would send relevant instructions to His Prophet, who would implement them. The Holy Prophet# being the vice regent of Allah on the earth was there to explain and demonstrate the implications of each verse to the Companions and thus the entire treasure | of Islamic teachings was right before their very eyes. | After the departure of the Holy Prophet 3 from this world, the | Companions were left behind to explain the Holy Quran to the coming generations of Muslims. Allah's Messenger/#¥ had trained them well and they were qualified to transmit the Quranic teachings to their successors. Yet they also realized that they were not the teachers that their Teacher ~ was; so some of them decided to chalk out the science of Tafseer. Amongst the first persons to do so was the Prophet's/i cousin Abdullah bin Abbas? (popularly known as Ibne Abbas). He would teach the Holy Quran and also explain it, and in this course, the sources of commentary on the Quran were defined. What sources are used to explain the Quran? The Qur'an This is regarded as the highest form of tafsir, based on the belief that the Qu'ran is the word of God, in Arabic revealed by Allah, and authoritative when it explains itself. The Qur'an is free of any contradiction, and any apparent inconsistencies in its message are inevitably resolved through closer study of the Qur'anic text. The Hadith & Sunnah The entire life of the Holy Prophet## was a practical demonstration of the Holy Quran. He was sent to explain and communicate the Qur'an to people. Thus his life (Seerah) and Traditions (Ahadith) contain much tafsir of the Qur'an. These are often marked as 'Meaning of Qur'anic verses in = almost all the major collections of Ahadith. An authentic hadith is regarded the second highest form of tafsir.Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 39. Aathar or the reports of the Sahaba The Sahaba, or companions, also interpreted and taught the Qur'an. If Qur'anic explication is absent, and there is no authentic hadith, then a consensus of the companions may be helpful in interpreting a certain verse. Scholars have an obligation to follow that consensus. Tabaeen's Explanations These people grew up in an environment with the Companions and were taught by them thus had insight that is the next in line of the sources of tafsir. Reason A qualified scholar's personal reasoning (deductive logic and personal evaluation of arguments) is the final method of understanding the Qur'an; it exists in conjunction with the other four. Methods of Tafseer There are various approaches to interpret the Quran Interpretation of the Quran by the Quran: Known as Tasfeer ul Quran bil Quran, it has the highest status. Because of the close interrelatedness of the verses of the Quran with one another, the Quranic verses explain and interpret one another. Many verses or words in the Quran are explained or further clarified in other verses of the Quran. An example is the prohibition of eating certain animals in the first verse of Surah Maida. (5:1)-The Quran at this point doesn't name the particular creatures but in another verse identifies the types (5:3). Interpretation of the Quran by the Hadith: Known as Tafseer bil Hadith, interpretation is done using the Ahadith and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet. When a verse was explained by the words40 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations of the actions of the Holy Prophet/#¥ himself, no better explanation is possible by a human being. An example of this is the injunction of Salah (prayer). The Quran repeatedly instructs the believers to enjoin the Salah but doesn't divulge details as to its procedure. The Holy Prophet declared 'Pray as you have seen me pray.' Thus he explained both by words and demonstration the Quranic verse. Interpretation of the Qur'an by the History: It is considered extremely important for commentators to explain how the Qur'an was revealed -- when and under which circumstances. Much commentary, or tafsir, was dedicated to history. These circumstances are called 'Asbab e Nuzool' or conditions surrounding the revelations. These may also be in more than one instance. A classic example is Surah Kauthar, which was revealed to console the Holy Prophet when he was being taunted upon the death of his son. Who can comment on the Quran? = To be able to comment on the Quran, i.e. to be a Mufassir, all the scholars agree that the following qualities must be present in the person. Must be a highly qualified scholar and his/her credentials must be recognized by the scholars. Must be an extremely pious Muslim. Must have absolute command over twenty three sciences. Some of them are: Ls Usool e Tafseer or science of Tafseer. 2. Hadith and its sciences 3. History and Asbab e Nuzul 7 4. Nasikh and Mansukh 5. Arabic Language, Lexicology, Grammar and Meanings. 3 Some important classical Tafaseer = Tafaseer (plural of Tafseer) are many in number. Some of the unanimously - accepted classical commentaries are 1. Tafseer Ibne Abbas, a collection and recording of the commentaries a by Abdullah bin AbbasUnit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 41 2. Tafseer Ibne Katheer, using only authenticated Ahadith of the Holy Prophet 3. Al-Jami' li Ahkam il- Qur'an by Imam Abu Abdullah al- Qurtubi of Cordoba Nasikh & Mansukh The Holy Quran was revealed in portions and commandments and rulings were sent as and when Allah willed it proper. At times a Quranic verse allowed a certain act but later disallowed it. Such a verse that is cancelled is called 'Mansukh' and the verse that cancels it is called 'Nasikh'. The best example is the inclusion of parents and relatives in one's will (2:180) which was later abrogated when details of inheritance were laid down in Surah Nisa verse 11 & 12. The Quran as a Source of Islamic Law The Holy Quran constitutes the foundation of Islamic Law and is therefore the primary and most reliable source. All other sources must bein conformity with the Quranic injunctions. It is the Final Word of Allah revealed to the Last Messenger, Muhammad'. The Holy Prophet then conveyed the divine message to the people for guidance to the Right Path. The Quran in this regard says: «Judge between them by what Allah has revealed and follow not their vain desires" (al- Maida; 5:49) « . if any do fail to judge by what Allah has revealed, they are Unbelievers."(al-Mai'da; 5:44) The Quran assures us of its authenticity and genuineness and its being a source of ultimate guidance for those who are God- fearing and who are true Believers. It says: "This is the Book. In it is sure guidance, without doubt, for those who fear God. ...."(2:2-3)42 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations This verse sums up the basic and major features of true believers who are sure to seek guidance from it. The Quran's superamacy in deciding the matters of daily life including the judicial issues is an established fact because the Quran says: "We have sent down to you the Book in truth so that you may judge between men, as guided by God.(4:105) The Quran courses not only the spiritual and moral aspects of life but it also deals with social, economic, judicial and even political spheres. It provides details of social behaviour and ethics. The Holy Prophet said, 'Whomsoever desired guidance from any other (source) except the Quran, shall go astray," 4 Commandments derived from the Holy Quran are called 'nas' (PI. 'Nussus'), 4 The compulsory acts of worship, such as Salat, Zakat, Saum, Hajj are all direct 'nussus' of the Holy Quran. Furthermore, the laws of inheritance, marriage, and divorce are all found in detail in the Holy Quran. These instructions are invariable, and must be followed by all Muslims for all times to come. Refusal to obey any 'nas' of the Quran leads to kufr, disbelief. The Quran includes many instructions about Personal behavior: "0 you who believe! intoxicants and gambling, sacrificing to stones and arrows are an abomination of Satan's handiwork: shun them so that you may prosper."(Al-Ma 'ida 5.90) Financial Dealings "Those who devour usury will not stand except as someone stands whom Satan by his touch has driven to 7 madness. That is because they say: "Trade is like usury'. But Allah Z has permitted trade and forbidden usury,"(Al-Baqara 2.275) 5Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 43 Criminal Laws "We set down in [the Torah] for them: 'Life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth and wounds equal for equal'. But if anyone remits the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself."(Al-Ma'ida) Order of Law Making "0 you who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and those charged with authority among you. If you differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger. If you believe in Allah and the last day, That is best and most suitable in the end."(Al-Nisa' 4.59) How the Quran is related with the Hadith, lima' and Qiyas? The four sources of Islamic law are inter-linked. The Quran is the fountain-head of all aspects of legal thinking and provides guidance for legislation by the Muslims. All the Quranic commandments, collectively called Nasoos (singular Nass), are absolute and final. These are not open to any challenge, criticism or professional and legal opinion and being the word of Allah Almighty are final in their application. Allah reiterates this discipline at many places in the Holy Quran. The Quran says: "These are the limits set by Allah. Whoever obeys Allah and His Messenger, He will admit him to gardens beneath which rivers flow, where he will live forever. That is a great success. Whoever disobeys Allah and His Messenger and transgresses the limits set by Him, He shall admit him to the Fire, where he will remain forever. For him there is humiliating punishment" (4:13- 14) However, there are many areas that need detailed interpretation or even demonstration for the sake of their full application to the life of a Muslim. In the offering of Salah we need information and guidance with regard to preparation, timing, exact number of Raka'at and format. In such matters, relevance of the Hadith (or Sunnah) becomes obligatory. As a matter of fact, it is impossible for us to fully and properly comprehend the message of the Quran without first acquainting ourselves with the Hadith which44 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations tells us the practical application of the Quranic Injunctions. Thus, Hadith emerges as an essential requisite to our satisfactory comprehension of the Quran. The Quran, therefore, repeatedly commands the believers: "And obey Allah and obey the Messenger." Both Quran and Hadith are collectively taken as the primary sources of Islamic law as together these encompass the entire foundation of legal behaviour in Islam. Ijma' and Qiyas are the two secondary sources of legal system as both strictly and essentially depend on the primary sources. Ijma' and Qiyas are exercised by the doctors of Islamic law (Mujtahidun) who have full command over the minute details of the Quranic Text and Hadith. Hence, these sources become operative only when a Mujtahid or a team of Mujtahideen are fully convinced that they do not find any solution in the Quran or Hadith. It is to be kept in mind that Quran provides the framework of Islamic teachings, and Hadith elaborates the foundational teachings of the Quran along with practical demonstration of the issues. However, in view of the collective evolution of human intellect and society, time is sure to bring forth new situations and challenges whose details have not been covered by the primary sources. Such challenges are called Far' and in such a case an individual Mujtahid exercises his competence and knowledge by finding a striking similarity between the Nasoos of the primary sources and the Far'. Such a material similarity is called the 'Illah, and the Far' is tackled on the basis of the 'Illah and the challenging issue is resolved. However, it is to be noted that when a team of the Mujtahidun works on a similar issue, it is not required to find an 'Illah. This is the mark of distinction between Ima! and Qiyas. Ijma' (Consensus of Scholarly Opinion) The word Ijma' literally means agreeing upon or uniting in opinion. In Islamic Shariah it is the third source of Islamic law and it refers to the consensus |Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 45 reached by the Muslim Scholars on some matter about which detailed answer in the Quran and the Sunnah is unavailable as such. There are many instances in which no clear parable is available in the Quran or Sunnah. The Holy Prophet came across countless situations and through divine guidance was able to clarify many issues. It is to be noted and remembered that the companions of the Prophet exercised ' Ijma' for the first time. The very word ' ijma' appears in the letter written by Umar toa judge. Umar directed him to pronounce judgements according to what had been agreed upon by the people in case he failed to discover a ruling in the Quran and the Sunnah. Thus all hypothetical questions were converted to practical experiences. As time passed and mankind underwent many social and technological changes, a few new questions began to be raised. A typical example is the issue of a test- tube baby or genetic engineering, which did not exist at the time of the Holy Propheti#*". These posed certain questions that needed practical solutions. Having been besieged with such questions the scholars exerted serious study and efforts through 'ima" safeguarding against any departure from basic disciplines of Islam. Ijma' is the consensus of the scholars dealing with such issues. It derives its sanction as an 'usul' or fundamental principle of Islamic jurisprudence from a number of Quranic texts and traditions of the Prophewi&", For instance, the Quran says: "Thus have We made you an Ummah (community) justly balanced" (2:143) This verse indicates that the essence of all Islamic teachings is to avoid extravagances or extremes on either side and strike a middle and balanced ground acceptable to all. Then at another place, the Quran asks us: "And hold fast all together the Rope of God and be not divided 'among yourselves"(3:103) Here the simile of Rope' has been used for the set of principles designed by Allah and which Surah al-Fateha terms as the Right Way. Now if all hold fast to it together, their mutual support adds to the chance of their safety. This means that the practice of Ijma' ensures the safety of the Ummah by means of universal agreement on controversial matters. This is for this reason that the Prophet advised his followers:46 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations "Avoid the branching path and keep to the general community." This tradition also supports the practice of Ima' in order to avoid sectarianism. Another famous tradition of the Prophet#i*. declares: "My community will never agree in error." This saying reflects the Prophet's" very positive view about his followers who with consensus would agree only on goodness. The Quran and sunnah shell ever remain the fundamentals and basic sources of Islamic Law. However, where these sources do not clarify a matter then the opinion of the scholarly authority is to be sought as is clear from the following Quranic verse: "0 you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and those charged with authority among you; if you differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger if you do believe in Allah and the Last Day; that is the best and most suitable for final determination." (4:59). It further says: "if you do not know, ask of those who possess knowledge" (Surah Nahl;16:43) = These Quranic commandments sum up the relationship between the Quran, the Sunnah and the authority (scholars etc) that is to be followed only when he (the authority) himself practised in the light of and in conformity with the Quran and the Sunnah. After some ruling or judgement is established through Ijma it shall be adhered to with noble intention and with trust in Allah. 5 We trace the roots of Ijma' from the Quranic commandments of "consulting each other" which was regularly practised by the Prophet/ia" = while making important decisions. A deep study and knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah is compulsory for a group of persons who are involved = in ma'. Following are the types of Ijma'.Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran Ijma! of the Companions This is the consensus of opinion done by the Companions' of the Holy Prophet". The agreed upon principle is that the Ijma' of any one can be reversed or amended by one who is equal or greater than him. For example, a person who is a companion can amend the decision of another companion. None can match the companions of the Holy Prophet" in their comprehension and command over Islamic injunctions. Thus the Ijma' enacted by them is valid for all times to come, and is an invariable source of Islamic law. Examples of this Ijma' include the addition of the second Azan (call for prayer) in the Juma' prayer. Another example of the companions' Ijma' is the offering of Taraweeh prayer in twenty rakats, compilation of the Holy Quran in one manuscript, and the elections of the Caliphs. Ijma! of the Imams The four Imams, Abu Hanifa, Imam Shafa'i, Imam Malik and Imam Ahmad bin Hunbal## are the elite of the scholars of the Ummah. Their grasp over theology was the best after the companions". The ljma' they derived is given the highest regard in the Muslim world. There is little that they left out but the scientific development is of course there. Examples of their Ijma' include the issue of the missing (lost) individual, i.e. what should be the maximum missing period for a person before he could be considered (declared) dead. This period was initially longer, but as communications have improved multifold over the last century, a seven-year wait is suggested. This brings us to the point that Ijma' of the Imams'# is subject to change over time. Another example is the problem of a jailed husband. Ifa man is imprisoned for a long period of time, should not the wife be allowed to divorce him, or remarry? How long should that period be? These and many other issues have been attended to through the Ijma' by the renowned scholars of Islam of the present day in the light of the Ijma by the Imams##.48' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Ijma' of the Scholars There can be shortage but never disappearance of scholars in Islam. The Holy Prophet/i#¥ said that a Mujaddid (renewer) would be sent by Allah every hundred years to purify the faith of the Believers. Modern day scholars are confronted with new issues, mostly which have to do with the advancement of technology. Examples of this include the permission to contract a marriage ceremony via telephone and prayer timings for those living in the North and South Poles. This form of Ijma' is not binding on all the Muslims and it could be revised or changed according to the demand of time and circumstance. Ijma' of the Local Muslim Community (Mashwara) The members of a local Muslim community may also conduct Ima' on the issues that pertain to them as individuals. For example, the timings for Salah are specified in the Sunnah, but the exact timing of the congregational prayer may be decided by the local community of any area differently. For example, the time for Salat- ul-Eid, (Festival Prayers) may be fixed by the local community though it must be within the time range specified by the Holy Prophet. This form of Ijma' is not binding on all the Muslims and is changeable according to local conditions. Qiyas or Analogical Deduction Qiyas is the fourth source (asl) of Islamic Law. Literally, Qiyas means measuring or comparing with or judging by comparing. In Islamic Jurisprudence (Shariah), Qiyas is a process of deduction by which the law of text (nass) is applied to cases which have not been clearly covered by the other sources (Far' or new case) of Islamic Law. Thus it is extended to cases or matters not explicitly covered by the Quran and the Sunnah on the ground of a material similarity in the nature of the two cases. The material similarity is termed as''tlla or effective cause. So by taking the 'Illa of the Quran or the Sunnah as absolute we identify the existence of the same 'Illa in the new case and then decide. In the Quran we find a number of verses where Allah has enjoined upon us to use our brains and reasoning. For instance in 59:2 the Quran asks us to utilize our insight in order to learn lessons:Unit 2: History and Importance of the Holy Quran 49 "Then take admonition O you with insight." The Holy Prophet while dispatching Mu'adh bin Jabali as the Governor of Yemen, asked him as to how he would judge the cases. His reply was rom the Book of God". The Prophet asked him if he did not find a clear solution therein, he replied that he would look to the Sunnah. The Prophet/i# further asked him that if he still found no answer from the Sunnah what he would do? Upon this Mu'adh# said that he would decide by exercising his own judgement. On this the Prophet' was pleased and he prayed for Mu'adhi?. This shows the Prophet's/i&¥ approval for using Qiyas. On another occasion a woman came to the Prophet/#" and stated that her mother who had solemnly declared to perform Haj, had died before doing so. She asked if it was necessary to perform Haj on her mother's behalf, The Prophet paused for a while and then said, "Verily, what would you do if she had left debts repayable? Naturally you would pay." " Here the 'Illa or effective cause in both cases is the fulfillment of obligation. Another classic example of the application of Qiyas is the method of manufacturing alcohol. At the time when the verses declaring Khumr (Date Wine) as Haram were revealed, alcohol was prepared from date palms or vine (grapes). As new methods were discovered to manufacture alcohol (e.g. Beer), all alcoholic drinks were declared Haram or forbidden because the 'Illa or common ground between all forms is that these all cause intoxication. A third example in practical life is the appointment of a guardian over a minor. By analogy a guardian shall have to be appointed over an adult who has lost his or her senses because the effective cause between the two is the inability to take care of oneself. By this we see that there are three identifiable components of Qiyas. Firstly, the text of the Quran or the Sunnah and the law contained therein; secondly, the branch or the particular case (Far') in question and thirdly, the 'Illa or effective cause. There are certain conditions for a person to exercise Qiyas. The person has to be a Mujtahid or doctor of law with command over the Quranic and Sunnah matters and the Arabic language. He must have sound memory50 —_O? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations and enjoy good repute as a pious person. He must have good knowledge of history in contemporary matters. Then there are necessary conditions for Qiyas. The aim of Qiyas is not to alter any Quranic or Sunnah law or text (nass). Moreover, it should be understandable for the Ummah or its reasoning should be easily comprehended by human intellect. Sample Questions Q.1 Discuss how the Quran was revealed to Muhammad Q.2 What were the different means through which the Holy Prophet/#" received revelation? Q.3 Identify the main divisions in the types of verses and outline their main characteristics. Q4 State the major themes of the Quranic Passages you have studied, regarding 1) Allah in Himself 2) Allah in His relation to His Creation 3) Allah in relation to His Messengersit Q.5 Outline the details of various stages of the compilation of the Holy Quran Q.6 Name any four compilers of the Quran. How did they ensure the reliability of the verses they collected? Q.7 What is reant by 'Tafseer'? How did it evolve? Q8 What are the sources used to explain the Quran? Explain them. Q.9 Outline the Methods of Tafseer Q.10 Who can comment on the Quran? Q.11 Can you name a few important classical Tafaseer? Q.12 What do you understand by Nasikh & Mansukh? Q.13 Describe the importance of the Quran as a source of Islamic Law. Q.14 Explain how is the Quran related with the Hadith, Ijma' and Qiyas?Life & Importance of the 4 Holy Prophet : i Et NEB BLS 5 LRN ATR EY I AE PO eh LO ON eS ae, SS a ai ER Sag Ra a52 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Summary of the Early Life of the Holy Prophet ##¥ The Holy Prophet ##¥ was born in 571 AD in Makkah, in modern day Saudi Arabia, to Amina bint Wahb, the widow of Abdullah bin Abdul Muttalib. His grandfather, Abdul Muttalib was the chief of the Banu Hashim clan of the Quraish tribe. This is the same year that Abraha attacked Makkah and which is also known as the year of the elephant. His mother named him Ahmad and his grandfather named him Muhammad. These are the very names mentioned of him in the previously revealed books of Allah, the Torah, Zabur, and the Injil He was brought up by his mother and initially nursed by Thuwayba, then sent off to live with Halima Dhuayb of Banu Saad until he was about six. Then his mother died and he was placed under the guardianship of his grandfather, who too died soon after putting him under the care of his uncle Zubayr. Zubayr bin Abdul Muttalib, too, passed away entrusting him in the care of the chieftain of Banu Hashim , Abu Talib. It was under his guardianship that Muhammad would spend the next four decades. Abu Talib loved him very much, preferring him even to his own sons. The "love of both a father and a mother"is how many of the narrators of his biography describe the affection of Abu Talib. Thus the Holy Prophet? was brought up with much love and care by his father's family. The Holy Prophet/ia#* was a person protected and nurtured by Allah Himself from his very birth. The Quran says, "Did He not find you an orphan and gave you shelter?" (Sura Duha). Thus in spite of all odds, the Holy Prophet" was sheltered and loved by Divine arrangement. There are many incidents to support this fact. Divine intervention was always prominent both in his life story as well as his character. Shy, modest and cultured, he never participated in any of the vulgar activities even in his youth, and rejected idol worship from his very childhood. Until he became a trader, he would tend flocks of sheep similar to the Prophets Musa and Dawoud*. He later said, "no prophet was sent by Allah who was not a shepherd" 'Asa trader, he soon earned the title of Al Sadiq (the truthful one) and Al Ameen (the honest one). People would trust him blindly with theirUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet Ag 53 possessions. Oddly enough, this practice continued for a long time, and even during his prophethood. When the persecutions and opposition of the Quraish knew no bounds, even his worst enemies continued to trust him. It was this very attribute that won him the employment of Khadija and finally her hand. Once during the rebuilding of the Ka'bah when a dispute arose between the Makkan chieftains regarding who would place the black stone, the Holy Prophet## showed a remarkable genius for problem solving, Instead of choosing a single person for the task, he let them all participate by placing it on a sheet onto which all lent a hand. This shows the remarkable genius of the Holy Prophet 2" and points towards the Divine wisdom in appointing His Messengers. When he was in his mid-twenties, Muhammad undertook a contract to trade on behalf of a wealthy widow of Makkah named Khadija bint Khawalid. Glowing reports about his character, honesty and integrity, as well as his handsome stature, moved Khadijah to propose marriage through Abu Talib, Fifteen years his senior, she proved to be an adoring wife and loyal companion to first Muhammad bin Abdullah, the honest trader and then to Muhammad the Messenger of Allah. Event of Awarding of the Prophethood Tahannuth The Prophet/&" had been a different individual since the beginning. He would never indulge in the corrupt Makkan society around him, and would instead visit frequently a cave in the mount of Hira (near Makkah) to spend hours in meditation. He would think about his Lord and the corrupt Makkan society. This act was known as "Tahannuth': As he approached the age of forty, he began to have certain spiritual experiences. He would hear a voice calling his name as he passed by a valley, he would see events in dreams that would come true. These things disturbed him and he began to pray even more, spending mre and more time in the cave of Hira, without caring much even for food'or drink. His wife was worried for his health, but in reality, this was the preparation Allah was putting him through for the Mission.54 0! Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The revelation begins One night, popularly believed to be the 27th of Ramadan, 610 AD, as he was meditating in the cave of Hira, the Archangel Jibreel came to him in the figure of a man. Then the following dialogue took place between them. Jibreel#® said, "Read". Muhammad' replied, "I cannot read."He then squeezed the Prophet's chest hard, and said again, "Read." The reply was the same. The Holy Prophet? later said that Jibreel squeezed him so hard that he felt as if his ribcage would collapse. When Jibreel## again asked him to "read", the Prophet#* asked him, "What shall I read?" Now Jibreel#% recited the first five verses of Surah al-Alaq, which the Propheti&* repeated after him: "Read in the name of your Lord Who, created. Created man out of a clot of congealed blood: Read and your Lord is most Bountiful. He Who taught (the use of) the Pen, Taught man that which he knew not."(96:1-5) The Holy Prophet" was shocked. Such was the spiritual weight (pressure) of this revelation that he felt his very soul burdened by these words. And why shouldn't it be, when the Quran itself says: "Had We sent down this Quran on a mountain, verily, you would have seen it humble itself and cleave asunder.." (Surah Al-Hashr; 59:21) This was the formal conferment of Prophethood on the Holy Prophet This first meeting with Jibreel*2 holds a special significance. Being the very first encounter with the Archangel, it marks the commencement of the revelation of the Holy Quran on the Holy Prophet. This was the last time he went for 'Tahannuth". Now Jibreel®%, in his role as a messenger to the Messengers, would come to the Holy Prophet with Allah's instructions every time.Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #55, Muhammad Rushes Home Now he left the cave and proceeded to his house. On the way down from the mountain, he heard Jibreel@% call out to him,"I am Jibreel, the angel of Allah, and you are Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah." This time Jibreel#2 was in his true form, with his feet on the earth, head in the sky and wingtips touching the east and the west. This added to the Holy Prophet's? state of shock and he rushed home to his wife, saying, 'Cover me! Cover me!" It is said that contact with the supernatural, is like receiving a jolt of electric shock. Of course, the Holy Prophet" hadn't had any previous experience of this kind, so he was greatly shock and stunned, When he felt better, he related this account to Khadija. She had always known that the man she had married was no ordinary mortal. Not only was his character and personality extraordinary, but also there was a spiritual presence about him that was noticed by all those around. She consoled him with the historic words: The cave of "Hira" "be of good cheer, dear cousin, for by Him Who has dominion over Khadija's soul, | do hope that you are the Prophet. Allah would never humiliate you. You are good to your relatives, true to your word, you aid the needy, you support the weak, and you respond to the call of the distressed" Waraqah Bin Naufal interprets the experience. The Holy Prophet, reassured by these words, fell asleep. Later he visited Khadija's Christian cousin, Waraqah bin Naufal, who was a scholar of the Torah and Injil. It is also believed that he translated some parts of them into Arabic. All the previously revealed books had foretold of the coming of the Last Prophet. Waraqah was of course aware of this fact. When he heard what had happened in Hira, he confirmed that it was56 _O'Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations indeed Jibreelt, the very angel that had brought revelations to the previous Prophets. Thus Waraqah attested to the fact that Muhammad##¥ was Allah's messenger in line with the previous messengers beginning with Adam and the most recent being 'Isa. He also foretold that the Holy Prophet/& would be forced to leave Makkah on account of his beliefs. The Holy Prophet#&? was surprised because of the love and esteem the Makkans held for him. How could they turn him out? And yet, as Waraqah said, whenever a Prophet is sent, many of his own people oppose him. Waragah prepared him thus mentally as much as he could, though the difficulties the Holy Prophet was to face would have been hard to imagine at this stage. Importance In the Islamic calendar, this year is known as the first year of Nabuwwah (prophethood). The very night, popularly believed to be the 27" of Ramadan is called a blessed night (Laila tul Mubarak) in the Holy Quran, and also the night of power (Laila tul Qadr). It not only marks the beginning of the Prophetic mission, but also the end of the era of darkness for mankind. Revelation of the last book of Allah began this night. Muhammad bin Abdullah walked into the cave of Hira and Muhammad RasulAllah walked out. Even today, Muslims celebrate this night around the world by spending much of it in worship as it marked the change of faith of Arabia from polytheism to monotheism. The Holy prophet/&* got an answer to all his queries. This is affirmed by the Quran: "Allah He found you wandering and gave you guidance."(al-Duha) Stages of Early Preaching- Dawa'h The 1° Stage: Privately. When he first got the revelation from Allah, he passed it on to his wife Khadija who immediately believed in him and thus became the first Muslim woman. He didn't speak about it to many people, and this phase may be called 'private preaching', as only his family and closest friends knew about it. This continued for the next three years, until he received divine instruciions regarding public preaching, About forty people became Muslims during this time and inevitably news spread of the "new" faith.ee aa a ol a - Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #4 57 Due to the small number of his followers, the Makkans paid little attention to them and they practised their religion in peace. The 2™ Stage: Tribe and Immediate Family 'The Holy Prophet received instructions from Allah to publicly preach the divine message through the Quranic verses from Surah Al-Shu'raa: "And warn your nearest kinsfolk" (26:214) In accordance with these instructions, the Holy Prophet/# invited about forty notables from Banu Hashim and Banu Muttalib, to his home and was about to address them when Abu Lahab interrupted him. He had some notion why the Holy Prophet had invited them, and spoke so rudely to him that the meeting dispersed without the Holy Prophet" saying anything regarding Islam. The Holy Prophet*#* manoeuvred another meeting in which he declared the Oneness of Allah, his prophethood, and warned them of the Hereafter. The reaction was a rude one led by Abu Lahab, but his uncle Abu Talib promised to protect and help him, although he himself refused to give up the religion of his forefathers. The 3" Stage: Open Preaching At this stage Allah directed the Holy Prophet/i#¥ to "Rise and Warm" (Surah 74) and directly and openly approach the general public. Now the Holy Prophet/# addressed the public at large. Ascending Mount Safa, he addressed the clans of the Quraish and asked them, "if | were to tell you that there were some horsemen in the valley waiting to raid you, would you believe me?" They all replied, "Yes, we have always witnessed the truth from you." He invited them to Islam and to worship Allah only to save themselves from the Fire of Hell. Here again Abu Lahab interrupted the Holy prophet58 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations and wished the audience in a loud and rude manner. The Holy Prophet##, although disappointed, was not deterred by this reaction and turned his attention elsewhere. He began to approach all the different clans of the Quraish one by one. He would approach individuals, and proclaim the message loudly in the courtyard of the Ka'bah. Thus he not only invited the attention of all Makkans but also of the pilgrims who visited the Ka'bah. Now each and everyone, who came into contact with him or his followers, was presented with the message of Islam. This resulted in further conversions to the 'new' faith. The Reaction of the Makkans The conversions, though few, and devotion of the early Muslims annoyed the Quraish. They didn't take lightly what they considered "betrayal to their religion" Meetings were held by the Quraish in their Dar ul Nadwa, or Assembly Hall. They would call in notables for consultations and planned in an organized manner to persecute and torture the Holy Prophet" and his 'Artist depiction of Historic Makkah Followers. They also agreed that the Holy Prophet #2 be declared a magician so that ordinary people would avoid him and not listen to hisee -_ Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #2 59 message. The Holy Prophet's elder daughter was married to Abu Lahab's son, and another was engaged to his other son. Abu Lahab ordered that both the relationships be broken off. They also resorted to violence and began physical assaults on the Prophet and the converts. Various leaders of the Makkan tribes began torturing the converts of their respective tribes. Persecution of New converts Uthman bin Affan #4 was wrapped in a mat of palm leaves by his pagan uncle who would set fire under him. Bilal £8, the Negro was inhumanly tortured by his master Umayya bin Khalaf. He was tied with a rope and dragged by the street boys on the orders of Umayya. Another victim of the Makkan cruelty was Ammar bin Yasir $82. He and his parents paid a heavy price of embracing the new faith. Yasir 3 died of repeated torture and Sumayyah (3, Yasir's wife, was bayoneted to death by Abu Jahl and thus she became the first woman martyr of Islam. Khabbab bin Aratté was made to lie on a bed of burning coals. The Prophet is also targeted The Prophet## himself was persecuted. Thorny bushes were spread in his way and filth and garbage was thrown on him. Abu Lahab's wife, Umm Jamil, lived in the neighourhood of Prophet and she would throw the remains of slaughtered goats on the Prophet while he was busy in worship. Abu Lahab, too, would throw stones on the Prophet and mock him on the death of his second son, declaring him as al- abtar (man without future hope or progeny). Another mortal enemy, Ugbah bin Abi Mu'ait, once put the entrails of a camel on the Prophet's back as he prostrated in the Holy Ka'bah. Abu Jahl, Abu Lahab and Umayya bin Khalaf were among the worst enemies of Islam. Abu Jahl on several occasions inflicted torture on the Prophet and all the three used every tactic to persecute the Prophet physically, mentally and emotionally. An old woman would throw garbage upon him whenever he passed her60 ——_' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations way, One day, when the Holy Prophet/is did not come across her, inquired and came to know that she was ill. The mercy and forgiveness of the Final Messenger knew no bounds. He went to meet her and ask about her health! She was so embarrassed; how she used to behave with him and how the Mercy to the worlds retaliated! She immediately accepted Islam. Abu Talib is Pressurized When all these didn't work, the Quraish tried to pressurize Abu Talib and asked him to dissuade his nephew (the Prophet) from his mission or at least withdraw his protection and patronage so that they could themselves deal with him. Abu Talib refused both of their demands, declaring his loyalty to his nephew regardless of the fact that he himself refused to believe. The Quraish Attempt to Bribe the Prophet The Quraish offered the Holy Prophet that they would appoint him their king, marry him to any woman he wanted, or give him any treasure he wanted, only if he would give up his call. The Holy Prophet ii responded, "If they would place the Sun in my right hand and the moon in my left on the condition that | abandon this course, I would not abandon it, until Allah had made me victorious or | die therein': The Socio-Economic Boycott Finally, the Quraish imposed a general Social Boycott on Banu Hashim that lasted for about three years. The Makkans formed a confederation hostile towards against Bani Hashim and Bani Abdul Muttalib. They took an oath not to have any kind of social interaction with them. This was written and hung onto the wall of the Ka'bah. Abu Talib took the whole Bani Hashim tribe (except Abu Lahab, who disowned his own tribe) to a small valley on the eastern outskirts of Makkah, the mountain pass of Abu Talib. (Shi'b-i- Abi Talib). 2 They remained isolated from 7th to 10th year of Prophethood. These people lived an extremely hard and miserable life confined to the Valley (Shib-i- Abi Talib) without any food or provision. Only occasionally, some weJe eel Ee EEE ee Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #61 compassionate Makkans would provide them some food or the members of Bani Hashim would themselves be able to buy some stocks during the four sacred months. At last, differences began to surface among the Makkans as some of the kindhearted chiefs began to feel sorry and a group of five leaders began to pressurize Abu Jahl and other die-hard Makkans to cancel the cruel and unjust Treaty. They held negotiations within the Sacred Mosque where Abu Talib was also present. He told them that Prophet' had been divinely informed that the parchment on which the treaty was written, had been eaten away except for the word 'Allah'. Abu Talib challenged that if that proved wrong he would give his nephew up to them. A man went to see the parchment and found the claim of Abu Talib absolutely true. Thus the boycott was brought to an end by the intervention of Allah Himself. The Quraish, however, remained just as unconvinced as before. The Year of Grief At the end of the boycott, the Prophet had to bear the loss of his two greatest supporters, Abu Talib and Khadija '@ and the Prophet declared the year 619 AD as the Year of Grief (Aam al Hazn). Both of them had served him greatly in his mission. Khadija &# had been his partner in life, mother of his children and had provided undying support always. Abu Talib had been a father to him before prophethood and after, and a strong pillar of support in his mission. He was also responsible for jaiwar, meaning the tribal protection because of which the Quraish could not hurt the Prophet" beyond a certain limit nor take his life. Abu Talib's death marked the end of this protection as the new chief of Banu Hashim, Abu Lahab, refused this unconditional shelter. This protection, however was now continued by Mutim bin Adi, but it was not a very strong one. Now the Prophet/i#¥ adopted a new strategy of spreading Islam to non- Makkans and to restrict the meetings and worships to Dar-e-Arqam as public display made the Quraish lash out even more violently. The Event of Taif and Nakhla An important incident occurred in the 10th year of the Holy Prophet's mission. He decided to take the message of Islam from Makkah to the neighbouring city of Taif, a few days journey, southeast of Makkah, home62 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations of the Bani Thageef. He was accompanied by Zaid bin Haritha 2. The three brothers who were chiefs of Taif, insulted the Holy Prophet/#¥ and set street hooligans loose upon these two. The words of the chiefs had cut deep into their hearts. The stones thrown by the vagabonds made them bleed profusely. Zaid $8 tried to shield the Holy Prophet", but he too was badly injured. Retreating from this mob, they took refuge in an orchard to relax and refresh themselves and nurse their wounds. On the way back, the angel of Mountains offered the Holy Prophet/4", that the entire population of Taif be destroyed by squeezing between the two mountains , but he forgave them and prayed for their guidance instead. On the way back to Makkah, when the Holy Prophet" was reciting the Holy Quran during his prayers, a company of Jinns heard him and declared belief in his Prophethood. This event is narrated in Surah Jinn in the Holy Quran was of some consolation after the painful events that had occurred in the last few days. The Isra & The Mairaj In the 12" year of Prophethood, the Holy Prophet underwent a miraculous experience. As he was sleeping and resting inside the Hatim, Jibreel#2 came to him astride a heavenly creature resembling a horse. He also had with him another such creature, named Buraq, upon which the Holy Prophet rode with him in the skies towards Jerusalem. Within the blink of an eye or even sooner, they reached the Masjid Al Aqsa (known as the farthest Mosque) where the Holy Prophet" was greeted by the past Messengers of Allah. bul -pome Here the Holy Prophet" led the entire body of Aref the rock Allah's Messengers in prayer (Salah) and also Yi met many of them individually. This was the first part of his journey and is known as Isra. It is also mentioned in a chapter of the Holy Quran named Surah Isra. Then the Holy Prophet' ascended the heavens alongwith Jibreel*2 on the second part of the journey, called Mairaj. He met with many Prophets(é along theUnit 3: Life &importance of the Holy Prophet /* 63, way and finally reached the Sidra tul Muntaha or the Lote Tree as mentioned in the Holy Quran in Surah Najm. Here he was shown Allah's greatest signs. This was spiritually a highly uplifting experience that further illuminated the granite faith of the Holy Prophet ##¥ The Reasons for the Reaction of the Quraish There were multiple reasons as to why the Quraish opposed the new Faith. Sense of Betrayal The increasing conversions and the utter devotion of these converts alarmed the Quraish greatly. Not only the majority of them (the Quraish notables) refused to convert, but also they failed to understand why anyone should even want to abandon the faith of their forefathers. This seemed to them as a betrayal to their elders, and hence they stubbornly stuck to their idolatry. Trade & Immunity from Plunder Having no local industry and hardly any agriculture, the Quraish lived on trade of two types. Firstly, the entire Arab population, and even Jews and Christians, regularly visited the House of Allah for pilgrimage (both Hajj and Umra). This practice had continued from the time of Ibraheem. Thus Makkah was not only a religious centre, but also became a central trade centre, where grand and huge trade fairs took place. This resulted in great fortunes for them. Also, they led huge trade caravans both north and south laden with goods, which were granted immunity from all the robbers of Arabia. Though an important trade route, Arabia was overflowing with robbers and looters of caravans, and no one was safe. But since the Quraish were considered "neighbours of Allah", "custodians of the House of God" and "keepers of all the gods of Arabia", none dared attack their caravans. Thus in times of turmoil and danger, the Quraish continued their business as usual fearlessly, and profitably, All these ranks and protection would end if they stopped and forbade the worship of the idols.64 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Social Setup The Quraish had built a society and culture centered on their false beliefs. They abused slaves and women, persecuted the poor, robbed the weak, even buried their infant daughters alive. All this would have to stop, as Islam taught and practised the equality of men, the rights of women and slaves, even the fair treatment of animals. This was a major reason for their reluctance to accept the new faith. Examples to be followed by the Muslims today The Prophet and his followers left an indelible mark in the annals of the history of struggle against the wrong and the unjust. These history making noble souls of early Islamic history set great examples of patience, perseverance, steadfastness, unshaken faith, commitment to their mission, love and devotion to the leader and unity among their ranks. Today's Muslims, in order to reach the zenith of progress, prosperity and advancement, should follow these golden examples set by their ancestors- in-faith. Patience, perseverance and tolerance were, no doubt, the hallmarks of the earliest Muslims but these wonderful attributes branched out of a strong and unwavering faith in Allah and His help for the true believers. Once they had embraced Islam they never doubted in it and devoted their energies to the cause of Islam. The Quran appreciates such believers as: "Only those are the believers who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and never since doubted, but have striven with their belongings and their persons in the cause of Allah; such are the sincere ones."(49:15) Today's Muslims are required to strengthen their faith first of all in the face of any opposition, calamity or hardships by following the foot- steps of the Holy Prophet##F. They should develop a strong belief that true faith coupled with persistent struggle is bound to bear fruit sooner or later. A Muslim living a hard and troubled life should consider true faith as the greatest asset that can ultimately overcome all hardships and difficulties. Patience, perseverance and steadfastness are the attributes that are highly admired by Allah. He knows that true believers emerge successful from tests and trials and for them He has huge and handsome rewards. Today,Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet j&* 65 we are living in times when people tend to lose their temper on a lightest provocation. We should look to the noble example of the Prophet" who would constantly face persecution, rejection and insults but would remain undeterred. A Makkan woman would eagerly wait for the Prophet" who used to walk through the street where she lived. As the Prophet ia' neared her residence she would throw a load of garbage on him. One day she failed to perform this vile duty and the Propheti#* was so concerned about the woman that he went upstairs to inquire about her well being. As he found her lying ill, the Prophet#¥" attended her till the time she had thoroughly recovered. Later she was so impressed by the kind- hearted Prophet that she embraced Islam. God promises abundance of rewards of such acts of nobility and forbearance. We, as true followers of the Prophet, are required to follow his lifestyle in order to hope for God's mercy and blessing. The Prophe# and his followers ##! set another example that we should follow. They remained thoroughly united and disciplined against all odds. This they did because they fully knew that they were a single brotherhood and this brotherhood was quite distinct from and superior to the one based on kinship or tribal unity. The Quran also confirms this by saying, "The Believers are but a single Brotherhood." (49:10) Muslims in the modern world are in great need of promoting such unity and fraternity, and not fall victim to sectarianism and disunity that negates the very basic teachings of Islam. We should promote mutual love and harmony and follow the example of the conduct of the Prophet set for us. This is referred in the Holy Quran as: "You have, indeed, in the Messenger of God a beautiful pattern of conduct"(33:21 Surah Ahzab) Emigration to Abyssinia Persecutions and insults by the Quraish continued to intensify and worsen day by day. By the middle of the 5th year of Prophethood (615 AD) the sufferings for the poor and weak converts became intolerable and it was at this time that the Holy Prophet received the revelation that hinted at allowing the Muslims to migrate to a safer place:66 O' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations "good is for those who do good in this world, and Allah's earth is spacious; only those who are patient shall receive their rewards in full, without reckoning" (39:10 al-Zumar). The First Batch The Prophet/ia knew that Ashamah, who held the title of Najashi or the Negus, was a fair ruler of Abyssinia (Ethiopia). So, he allowed some of the Muslims to migrate to Abyssinia. Accordingly, in Rajab of the 5th year of Prophethood (615 AD), a group of twelve men and four women left Makkah. They included Uthman and his wife Ruqayya bint Muhammad. The Prophet on this occasion remarked: "They are the first people to migrate in the cause of Allah after Ibrahim and Lot." These emigrants found a safe haven in Abyssinia under the just and fair rule of King Negus. The Second Batch Shortly afterwards, a second batch of emigrants left Makkah. This was a larger group with 83 men and 19 women. They, too, found solace and comfort in Abyssinia, much to the dismay of the Quraish. Quraish try to extradite the Emigrants The Quraishite chiefs got worried over this new development and, apprehending the possible growth of Islam , they decided to counter the move. Two notable Makkans were dispatched to influence Negus against the Muslim emigrants and they were 'Amr bin al-/As and Abdullah bin Rubi'ya They carried rich bribes with them and complained to the military generals as well as the King Negus about the escape of their fellowUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet i 67 Makkans. The emigrants, they blamed, had renounced their religion not for the sake of Christianity but for a "new religion". Negus interviews the Muslims The king summoned the emigrants who included such notables as Uthman, Hamza bin Abdul Muttalib and Ja'far bin Abu Talib &¥ (all with influential background). Negus interviewed them about Islam and Ja'farz gave satisfactory answers to silence all. He then recited verses of Surah 19 (al-Maryam): "And make mention of Mary in the Book, when she withdrew from her people unto a place towards the East, and secluded herself from them and We sent unto her Our Spirit He said: I am only a messenger from your Lord, that I may give you the news of the birth of a holy son"(19: 16-21) The Negus and his generals could not resist weeping as they felt their hearts softened by the recitation. The Negus dismissed the appeal of the Makkan pagans and granted full permission to the Muslims to live happily im his country, (He later embraced Islam). Emigration to Yathrib (Madinah) The First Pledge of Aqaba In the 11" year of Prophethood, a group of six men from Yathrib accepted Islam as the Holy Prophet was preaching to the pilgrims. They returned with another seven the next year to enact the 1st Pledge of Aqaba. The Prophet" then sent Musab bin Umair 2%: to educate them on Islam. They were mainly from Khazrqj tribe. The Second Pledge of Aqaba The next year, another seventy-five converts came to Makkah to form the 2nd Pledge of Aqaba, and invited him to come and live with them as their leader in Yathrib. The number of conversions in that city was highly encouraging as compared to Makkah. Thus the Holy Prophet ## ordered68 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations the Muslims both of Makkah and those in Abyssinia to emigrate to Yathrib. These meetings were organised by Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib. On the Makkan front, things were getting worse day by day. Persecutions were breaking all barriers, so much so that the Quraish jointly decided to murder the Prophet. There was not much left to do apparently in Makkah. This vicious and evil plan of the Quraish left no reason for the Holy Prophet" to stay there. Finally Allah gave him permission to leave in the month of Safar in the 13" year of Prophethood (September 622). The Migration of the Holy Prophet (The Hijra) Assassins surround the House of the Holy Prophet iat" The Quraish posted a band of eleven men around the Prophet'sii" house at night with the intention of murdering him when he emerged in the morning, But during the night, the Prophet, leaving behind Ali bin Abu Talib 2 in his bed, went to Abu Bakr's 8 house. He recited the verses of Surah Yasin, "And We put a barrier before them, and a barrier behind them, and We covered them up, so they cannot see."(36:9) Thus miraculously unseen by the aspirant assassins, he and Abu Bakr left for a cave in Mountain Thaw, five miles south of Makkah city. What Happened in the Cave of Thawr Here they spent three days and nights, while the Makkans searched for them and announced a reward of 100 camels for each head. Abu Bakr'sitt daughter would bring them food and his son would cover her tracks with his herds to throw off the would be trackers. The cave was infested with scorpions and snakes which bit Abu Bakr 2, but he did not let them come near the Holy Prophet'. While searching them, a band of Makkans reached almost so close to them that their discovery seemed inevitable. Abu Bakr became worried, but the Holy Prophet' assured him that Allah was the third one with them (forUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #¥ 69. their protection). His words are also mentioned in the Holy Quran (9:40). A spider wove a web overnight at the mouth of the cave and a dove, having completed its nest, laid its eggs, making the Makkans believe that no one could be inside and they left in disappointment. This was a great blessing from Allah, Route of Hijra Onwards to Yathrib After three days both left the cave with a guide Abdullah bin Uraigit 38 on two camels for Yathrib via a zigzag route in order to throw off any pursuers. But a bounty hunter, Suraqah bin Malik, tracked them and began to pursue them. Suraqah, however, had to abandon pursuit, as his horse would not move forward by the command of Allah. 'The party after a few days reached two isolated tents of a woman called Umm Ma'bad al-Khuza'iyah and stayed there to refresh themselves. Then on their way to Madinah they met Buraidah bin al Husaib 2% al Aslami who along with 80 men of his tribe, Bani Aslam, embraced Islam. Makkah al Mukarrama wet coe : See The 1° Mosque in Islam On Monday, 8 Rabi al-Awal (23 September 622 AD) they arrived at Quba at a short distance from Yathrib. Here they stayed for four days and were joined by Ali bin Abi Talib 88. At Quba, the Holy Prophet # built a70 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations mosque and prayed in it. This was the first mosque in Islam. The 1" Friday Prayer. On Friday he left for Yathrib. On his way, he offered the first Friday prayer in the Valley of Bani Salim alongwith the accompanying Muslims. The Prophet#a enters Madinah The people of Madinah had been eagerly waiting for their new leader and the most honoured guest. Chanting his praise, they greeted him on Monday to his new home. Abu Ayub Ansari got the honour of hosting the Prophet till his own living shelter was built. Importance of the Hijrah The base of the Muslims moved from Makkah to Madinah. The Holy Propheta¥ was the leader of a small band of persecuted community in Makkah. Now he became the executive head of a small city state in which they didn't need any outside protection, rather others were to seek their help. In Makkah, verses and surahs would be regarding the faith and practice of a believer as an individual. Now as the first Islamic community emerged, it had to be a practical manifestation of that faith. Hence the Quranic revelations after Hijrah were dominantly regarding the enforcement of the Shariah, which encompasses all communal laws of Islam. It also marked the beginning of the Hijrah Calendar which was implemented by the second rightly guided Caliph Umar #83.Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 43 71 Early Settlements at Madinah Yathrib was now named "Madinah-tun- Nabi" or City of the Prophet, which with the passage of time assumed the name of Madinah. This was the first Muslim community and the Holy Prophet##¥ took certain measures to establish and strengthen the city- state of Madinah. First of all, he built a mosque, which was not only the center of worship, but also the center of education, the headquarters of the Muslim State, and pivot of communal life. Secondly, he abolished the identity of warring or opposing tribes, managing all the Muslims into two groups, the Muhajireen (the Emigrants) and the Ansar (the Helpers). Then he declared a bond of brotherhood between each Muhajir and each Ansari. The Ansar shared all their property, half and half, with their Muhajir brothers. Such an example of self- sacrifice is not found anywhere in the history, Thirdly, he constituted "The Charter of Madinah" which is the world's first written constitution. It had fifty-two sections, and comprised the framework for Islam's first State. Mosque Qubba———_—_____ 72 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations It declared the Muslims to be an independent nation, whose identity was based not on caste, creed, language, region or colour, rather on faith in Islam. It included the basis of communal laws, laws of governance, anda complete set of principles of inter-tribal dealings. Fourthly, the Holy Prophet/2* made a treaty with the Jews that lived in and around the city. It was an agreement that the Muslims and Jews would live in harmony and mutual respect, and would aid each other in times of attack. Madinah was declared a haram, (sanctuary) similar to Makkah by all the signatories to the pact. The Battle of Badr Causes The Muslims had suffered greatly at the hands of the Quraish while in Makkah and had not been given a free hand to fight back. Despaired of betterment, they were forced to seek refuge first in Abyssinia and then in Madinah, Their property and businesses having been confiscated, most arrived in Madinah as destitutes. Once there, they got the opportunity to choke the lifeline of the Quraish, the trade route with Syria. Allah gave them permission in the verses of Surah Hajj, as: "To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight) because they are wronged and, verily, Allah is most Powerful for their aid" (22:39) The Muslims began to raid and threaten the Quraish and their allies; thus attempting to damage their economy. Then, in 2. AH, a very large trade caravan of the Quraish, laden with profits, led b Abu Sufyan, was on its waupback to Makkah, and had to pass close to Madinah. Intercepting this caravan would strike a deadly blow to the Quraish, and the Muslims decided to attack it. Abu Sufyan, foreseeing such attack, sent a message for help to the citizens of Makkah. Enraged by this threat, a highly equipped army of 1000 sldins 5 Makkah for Madinah. While it was halfway news reached them that the caravan had taken an alternate route and reached Makkah safely. The leaders of the army that included Abu Jahl and many of the elite chiefs of U i i march on to deal severely with the Muslims.rrr ror: Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #¥ = 73 Events On 17th Ramadan 2 A.H., the Muslim and the Quraishite armies met for the first time in the battlefield of Badr. The Muslim army numbered 313, was poorly equipped but faced resolutely 1000 men, armed to their teeth. The disparity between the numbers and equipment was hard to imagine.74 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The Prophet" advanced to the valley of Badr and seized the water source and then blocked up all the wells except the one nearest to Makkah Thus he got the first strategic supremacy. The Prophet/# spent the night praying to Allah for special divine help. The Muslims were stationed on the firm ground of the slope of a hill whereas the Makkans encamped on the soil below the hill. The sun, on the morning of the battle hit in their eyes but the Muslims had the sun on their back. The Makkan army had another setback when a strong wind began to blow and threw sand in their eyes. Most importantly, Allah sent down a thousand angels to help them, as stated in Surah Anfal. —The battle itself was fought in three stages: 1? War of words 2. One to one combat rounds 3. General fighting. The Quraish lost their three prominent chiefs, Utba bin Rabia, his brother Shaiba and his lid bin Utba by Ali, Hamza and Abu Ubaidah i. In the general fighting that followed, ib Mslins followed the advice ofthe Prophet to first shoot arrows, then hurl stones and lastly to engage in battle with swords in their hands. They soon were able to press the enemy hard as they killed such leading figures as Abu Jahl, Umayyah bin Khalaf and many others and a total of 70 Makkans were killed and 70 were taken as prisoners. They included Abbas (Prophet's uncle), an-Nazr, Ugba, Sohail and son of Abu Sufyan. Against this only 14 Muslims were martyred. The Muslims al = captured 115 camels, 14 horses and arich store of | clothes, ets and equipment of war. Importance of this Battle This was the first time the armies of the Believers and the disbelievers met. Itis called Yaum ul Furgan, the Day of Criterion. The Holy Quran mentions this in Surah Anfal. The miraculous victory of the Muslims reinforced their faith in Allah, and cast terror in the hearts of the Quraish. It established the Muslims as a military might in Arabia. It is affirmed by the Holy Qura'n: "It is not you who slew them; it was Allah: when you thrust (aet Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet jz 75 handful of dust) it was not your act, but Allah's: in order that He might test the believers, by a gracious trial from Himself: for Allah is, He who hears and knows (all things)" (8.17). Now they were not only a political entity, but also a powerful force. It also caused the Quraish to plana severe and bigger attack again next year to avenge their losses. The Battle of Uhad In order to avenge their losses at Badr, in Ramadan 3 A.H. the Makkans raised an army of 3000 well-equipped men, of whom 700 had coats of mail and with 200 horses and 3000 camels under the command of Abu Sufyan. Women also accompanied the 6h ath ati A a sae Quraish Camp Battle of Uhad army and among them was Hind, Abu Sufyan's wife and Utba's daughter. She had hired Wahshy bin Harb, the famous lancer, to take revenge from Hamza #3 for Utba's death. The army reached near the Uhad hill through Wadi-i-Agiq. The Prophet held the meeting of the war council and it was finally decided to face the enemy outside Madinah. An army of 1000 men was raised including 300 horsemen of Abdullah bin Ubbay, the hypocrite. After marching a few miles he deserted the Muslim army with his 300 men,76 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations leaving the Prophet/# with only 700. Of them only 100 had coats of mail but they were all true and sincere believers. This act on the part of Abdullah bin Ubay also exposed clearly the hypocrites within the Madinah population. Next day, early in the morning the Prophet occupied the western slope of the Uhad hill and so the Muslims stood on a rising ground in a safer and secure position. On the top of the hill was a little pass which the enemy could use to attack from the rear and, therefore, the Prophet appointed 50 archers under Abdullah bin Jubayr $8 with strict instructions not to leave their positions. The Makkan army advanced under the command of Abu Sufyan with Talha, the grandson of Abd-al-Uzza bearing the standard. Their 'right wing! was under the command of Khalid bin Walid and the "Jeft wing' under Ikrima bin Abu Jahl, both of whom had lost their fathers at Badr, After the war of words in the individual combats, Talha and his brother Uthman were killed by Ali and Hamza (3 and this infuriated the Quraish who began general fighting. They were intercepted by the archers and such wonderful Muslim commanders as Ali, Hamza, Zubayr and Abu Dujana? Soon the Makkans began to retreat and after a while they might have fled but at that moment some of the Muslim troops fell upon the spoils of war in the Quraishite Camp. Except for 12, the remaining 38 archers also left their positions and got busy in collecting the booty. When Khalid bin Walid saw this he attacked from the rear and soon turned the tables on the Muslims. Several Muslims had to flee and others began to retreat up the hill. The Prophet ##¥ was surrounded and protected by many faithful followers. In the meantime, a rumour was spread that the Prophet had been killed which disheartened the Muslims who began to flee (leaving the Prophet/iai* with a few companions). The cry also caused the Makkans to relax and stop fighting. They returned to their camp but when they came to know that the Prophet#¥ was alive they held a war council. It was, however, decided that they would return to Makkah as they had taken revenge of Badr by killing about 70 Muslims. Abu Sufyan then challenged the Muslims to meet the Makkans a year later at Badr. The Prophetda* and the Muslims remained at Uhad till late in the evening, busy in burying their dead, nearly 74 in number. Against this only 10 Makkans were killed.eS Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet "77 Lesson and Importance Two very important lessons can be learnt from this battle. Firstly, that the Muslim army may suffer damages at times, but will eventually prevail as seen in the following years. The Holy Qura'n in this regard consoles the Ummah by saying: "Be not cast down, neither be ye grieved. Ye shall be yet victories if ye are true Believers.(3:133) Secondly and most importantly, the Holy Prophet/ia" must be obeyed under all circumstances. If his instructions are not carried out strictly, it shall result in heavy losses for not only the disobeyers, but for all the Muslim community. The Battle of Trench (the Siege of Madinah); This was the supreme but failed effort of the Makkans to break the Prophet Muhammad's" power at Madinah. In response to Abu Sufyan's challenge at Uhad a year ago, the Prophet? led a force of about 1500 men with merchandise to the caravan market of Badr. The Muslim army remained there for about eight days but the Makkans did not show up and the Muslim force returned to Madinah. The Quraish, however, began preparations for inflicting a decisive defeat on Madinah. The Jewish tribe of Banu Nadir joined hands with the Quraish and instigated them to attack Madinah. Soon, an army of the Allies was raised. The combined Allies' army consisted of the Quraish with their closer allies constituting 4000 men; Banu Ghatafan (2500 men), Banu Asad (3500 men) and Banu Sulaym (700 men). The Quraish gave 300 horses and 1500 camels. Thus the Allies' army consisted of more than 10,000 soldiers, all fully equipped and well prepared. This force reached the northern outskirts of Madinah in March 627/Zul Qlad 5 AH. The Prophet/i#* was informed of this by the friendly tribe of Banu Khuza' and he could raise only 3000 men. The Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza and some of the Hypocrites remained opposed to the Muslims and criticized the Prophet. The Quran mentions them in Surah Ahzab as: "And behold! The Hypocrites and those in whose hearts isa78 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations disease say: 'God and His Messenger promised us nothing but delusions' (33:12) Battle of Trench Legends: Impassable Hilly Tracts 2 4 Large Boulders + Trench nes Sa 0 The Allies' army approached Madinah via Wadi al Aqiq and began to camp there. The Prophet consulted his advisors on this critical development as the Muslims were now greatly outnumbered by the Allies' army, Madinah had to be defended on its northern side. Salman Farsi gaveUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 79 the idea of digging a ditch around Madinah. The Prophet welcomed the idea and the Muslims dug a ditch around Madinah in about a week. The ditch was wide and deep enough and could not be passed over by a man or a horse. The dimensions were Length: 5.5 Km, Width: 4 Ymeters, Depth: 3 "sneters When the Allies' army reached Madinah they were quite upset on seeing the trench. This was undoubtedly something non-Arab and purely new for them and therefore, they had no choice but to lay siege to Madinah. Both armies watched silently each other. Then Abu Sufyan began to develop impatience, as he knew well about the anxiety of his Bedouin allies who had expected an easier and quicker victory and return. He, therefore, began to look for some weak point in the Muslim camps. The Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza provided him some hope as they decided to make a secret alliance with them in violation of the Treaty of Madinah. This was quite alarming. The Prophet, however, was not in a position to deal with the treacherous Jews and he just appointed a small party to keep an eye on them. Later he used one of his secret agents to cause sedition between the Jews and the Allies. Moreover, as Abu Sufyan had resolved to attack Madinah from the north with the support of the Jews from the south, but it being the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday) the jews refused to join him. The Quran mentions this dual threat of the Allies and the Jews in the following words: "Behold! They came down on you from above you and from below you..."(33:10) Also, very soon, the Prophet/##* won over the major Makkan ally, Banu Ghatafan who began to consider some kind of compromise with him. The Allies in the meantime attempted to cross the trench and a small party actually crossed it that included Ikrima bin Abu Jahl, Amr and Naufil. Ali, Sa'ad bin Muadh #5 and others immediately attacked them and Ali 38 killed Amr and Naufil while Ikrima escaped. Now Muslims became more vigilant and they foiled every attempt of the Allies to cross the ditch. Gradually the Allies began to lose hope as by now more than 15 days had passed. Now, harsh climate came to the Muslims' help and stormy winds began to blow. The allies were running short of supplies and no fodder was80 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations available for their animals. Finally, one night strong stormy winds blew and so severe was the intensity that Abu Sufyan decided an immediate retreat. The next morning it was a sunny day and no enemy was to be seen anywhere. Results and importance: There were a number of reasons for the Muslims' victory. Firstly, it was due to superior strategy of the Prophet as the siege proved to be a battle of wits for which the allies were not prepared. Secondly, the Muslims remained thoroughly united and their faith remained unshaken. The Allies, on the other hand, lacked discipline and cohesion. The desert tribes had only temporarily joined them in the hope of quick gains. Thirdly, the Prophet's strategy to thwart the efforts of a possible union of Banu Qurayza and the Allies was a timely step. Fourthly, the non- availability of fodder for the animals of the allies was also another important setback, which was due to the harvesting of crops done before the arrival of the Allies. The outcome of the siege was quite important for the Muslims and the Makkans. The pride and prestige of the Quraish was damaged beyond repair. They would never be able to rise against Madinah again. The event also heralded the onset of blowing of winds of change across the horizons of Arabia as the later events would prove. The Holy Prophet*# declared that this would be the last attack ever by the Quraish. Treaty of Hudaibiya (6 AH) The Prophet's" Dream In early 628 AD/6 AH, the Prophet/# dreamt that he was entering the Sacred Mosque (Masjid Haram). Accordingly he asked his followers to get ready for 'Umrah (minor pilgrimage). The Quran mentions this and some of the subsequent events in Surah 48 (al-Fath or Victory) (as): "Truly did Allah fulfil the vision of His Messenger; you shall enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, in full security, with your heads shaved or your hair cut short and without fear..."(48:27)Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet i 81 The Prophet set out for Makkah accompanied by about 1400 men who were unarmed except for a sheathed sword. They also took with them 70 camels for sacrifice. The Makkans, however, took this action of the Prophet#i¥ as a tactic move and decided to block his way. They were ready to violate the sanctuary of Makkah and the sanctity of the sacred months during which any fighting was forbidden (this was the month of Zu'l Qa'da 6 AH). A cavairy force was sent under Khalid bin Walid to stop the Muslims. The Muslims adopted an unfamiliar route and halted at Hudaibiya as the Prophet's camel refused to move further. The Quraish, camped at Zu Towa, showed readiness to fight. The Quraish first sent its representatives to negotiate with the Prophet? and to dissuade him from his intention but returned unsuccessful. Now the Prophet ent a messenger to Makkah who was ill-treated and then Uthman was sent. He found protection (Jiwar) in his clan but was detained by the Quraish. The Baiyat ur Ridwan In the meantime, a rumour reached the Muslims about the murder of Uthman and on this the Prophet took Pledge of the Good Pleasure (Bai'yat-i-Rizwan) or the Pledge of the Tree as he was standing under a tree while administering the oath. The Muslims expressed their determination to sacrifice their lives for the cause of Islam. The Quran mentions this event as: "allah's good pleasure was on the Believers when they swore fealty to you (Muhammad) under the tree: He knew what was in their hearts and He sent down tranquility to them, and He rewarded them with a speedy victory" (48:18) Uthman bin Affan #2 however was safe and returned shortly after the pledge. This shows the sense of true brotherhood amongst the Muslim community and their feelings for each other. The Quraish propose a Treaty The Quraish dispatched Suhail bin Amr to hold negotiations with the82 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Prophet'. After prolonged debate the Treaty of Hudaibiya was signed that was written down by Ali bin Abu Talib 38. Under the Treaty, a truce between the Muslims and the Makkans was agreed for 10 years. The Muslims were to return that year and come the next year to perform Pilgrimage for 3 days. Any tribe was free to join either party (Muslims or Makkans) as allies. Muslims were made bound to return any runaway coming from Makkah to Madinah but the Quraish were not bound to send back a runaway that went from Madinah to Makkah. This treaty included the allies of both signatories as well. Allthe terms of the Treaty and especially the extradition clause were quite disappointing to the Muslims as they were apparently unfavourable to them. Some even tried to protest but retained their blind faith in the Divine wisdom inspired to the Holy Prophet. The sacrificial camels were finally sacrificed on the command of the Prophet, heads were shaved and the lhrams were abandoned. The Holy Prophet? demonstrated an example of true executor to the treaty when he sadly returned Abu Jandal who had reached Hudybiya after having suffered persecutions at the hands of Makkahns pagans. Results of the Treaty of Hudaibiya Soon the hidden wisdom of the terms of the treaty began to reveal itself. While on his way back to Madinah the Prophet/ia¥ received the glad tidings through the verse: "Verily, We have granted you a clear victory."(48:1) The Prophet" recited the revelation to his companions who were filled with joy and soon all the Muslims felt relieved. The first achievernent was the only conquest of Khyber that was accomplished just two months after the signing of the treaty. This conquest put an end to the Jewish conspiracies north of Madinah and also brought material prosperity for the Muslims as they began to receive half of the agricultural produce of theUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 83, rich lands in Khyber. Then occurred another incident. Abu Baseer 2, a Muslim at Makkah, was able to escape and hide at a hilly tract lyes on the coast of the Red Sea, near Madinah. Soon about 70 Muslims were able to get shelter at lyes and they now began to raid and harass the Makkan trade caravans. This disturbed the Makkans so greatly that they finally themselves requested the Prophet to remove the extradition clause. This gave a great boost to the morale of the Muslims. Moreover, the Prophet? now began to preach more openly and confidently without any fear of the Makkan aggression. As a result Islam spread around Madinah with a much greater pace and, therefore, far more people embraced Islam during only two years than the preceding six years. The Prophet/#* was now in a position to break the old alliances and substitute these with new alliances with the people around the Republic of Madinah. The Prophet} was quite successful in his new strategy of winning over the Makkans through peaceful means instead of inflicting military defeats on them. As a result such important Makkans accepted Islam as Khalid bin Walid and Amr bin al-A's. Similarly, almost all of the tribes of Najd embraced Islam including such tribes as Ghatafan, Th'alaba, Juham and several others. Finally, after unifying the whole of northern Arabia, the Prophet began to invite the neighbouring kings and emperors to Islam and also planned to bring the northern Christian tribes to the fold of Islam. This brought the Muslims into conflict with the Christians for the first time (Battle of Mu'tah, 629 AD). The Holy Prophetsa¥ and the Jews of Madinah The Jews were well settled in Madinah long before the advent of Islam. In spite of inter- marrying and mingling with the Arabs with whom they had many customs in common, they adhered firmly to their religion. But mutual business interest bound them close to all the Arab tribes in the vicinity. They had acquired great wealth and power, and were a formidable force. There were three main Jewish tribes in Madinah during the days of the rise of Islam, Banu Qainuga, Banu Nadir and Banu Qurayzah. Of the three main tribes, Banu Qainuqa possessed no agricultural lands but had compact settlements where they conducted business and were84 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations mainly goldsmiths. Banu Nadir and Banu Qurayzah, on the other hand were agriculturists and possessed some of the richest lands in Madinah where date- palms were grown. The Prophet was quite aware of the importance of the Jews in Madinah and was hopeful of winning them over through peaceful invitation to Islam, which had many things in common with the Jews and the Christians (both of which were declared by the Quran as the Ahl-al- Kitab, the People with the Book). With this hope, he included them in the Charter of Madinah as an important group of the community. Both Muslims and Jews were declared as a single community or Ummah; complete religious freedom was granted to them and they were given equal rights (along with their allies) with the Muslims. Both the communities were required to maintain law and order in Madinah jointly and defend the city collectively. However, not many of the Jews accepted the Prophet' and those who did were small in number like Abdullah bin Salam $8 of Banu Qainuqa. Then there were some other Jews who had not accepted the Prophet at all and did their best to hinder his message. The Prophet/ia", in any case, tried his best to make friends with the Jews but they remained hostile towards him. At the time of Hijra, Banu Qainuqa were in alliance with the chief of hypocrites Abdullah bin Ubay and both were friendly towards the Prophet/#¥ and his followers. They were bankers and used to lend money to the Muslims. They were the first to be attacked by the Prophet/i##* both intellectually and physically. The Prophet/#* began to receive revelations about breaking relations with the Jews. He received the revelation about the change of Qiblah while he was offering his prayers at Banu Salimah, shortly before the battle of Badr (Sha'ban 2 AH): "Turn then your face in the direction of the Sacred Mosque, wherever you are, turn your faces in that direction..."(2:144) This revelation was to silence the Jews who used to taunt the Muslims that they (Muslims) did not know about their Qiblah. Then, verses condemning usury or Riba were revealed around the same time and as Banu Qainuqa were moneylenders their relations got strained with the Muslims.Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet i 85 Banu Qainuqa (Feb, 624AD) In the backdrop of this divinely guided change, there were a number of hostile encounters between Muslims and Jews. On his return from Badr, " the Prophet" renewed his appeals towards Jews but of no avail. Then an incident occurred that became the immediate reason for the expulsion of Banu Qainuqa. Some Jews of Banu Qainuqa insulted a Muslim woman while she was shopping on a Jew's shop. A Muslim who was there, got enraged and killed the Jew but was himself also killed by a group of the fellow Jews. When the matter was brought to the Prophet", he immediately raised an army and laid siege to Banu Qainuga's residences. The siege lasted for 15 days and finally the Jews surrendered, The Prophet/i#* decided to execute them but then commuted the punishment into exile on the request of Abdullah bin Ubbay, They were forced to leave Madinah taking their wives and children within three days. Leaving behind their tools, they migrated to Syria. Banu Nadir (Rabi- al- Awwal 4.AH; Aug, 625AD) In 4 A.H. the Holy Prophet met with some of the companions at Banu Nadir's settlement regarding the payment of Diyyah (blood money) to Banu Amir in the accidental killings of Bir Mauna. They asked the Prophet to wait under the wall of their stronghold. The Prophet#3 was divinely informed of the Jewish designs to kill him (God forbid) by rolling of a big stone from above the wall. He immediately left for Madinah. The Prophet went to the Mosque and told his companions about this. Then he sent an ultimatum asking them to leave Madinah within 15 days with their belongings and pay half of the agricultural produce of their lands. Upon their resistance, the Prophet,' laid siege to their strongholds. The siege lasted for about 15 days and the Jews began to lose hope especially when the Muslims began to destroy their palms. Finally, they gave in but the Prophet" would now impose less favourable terms. They were to leave their weapons and to have nothing from their lands. They left for Khyber.86 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Banu Qurayzah (March 5 A.H. / Zul Qadah 626 AD) Banu Qurayzah was the third of the Jewish tribes attacked and punished by the Muslims. During the siege of Madinah (Battle of Trench) they held negotiations with the Quraish-led Allies and this greatly endangered the Muslims who were on the defensive. If the negotiations had succeeded the results might have been fatal for the Muslims. They indeed had tried to stab the Muslims in the back. The Prophet was, therefore, compelled to take serious action against them. After the siege was over, the Prophet ia" marched with his army towards Banu Qurayzah's strongholds and laid siege to them. The siege lasted for about 25 days and Banu Qurayzah decided to surrender on the same conditions as did Nadir but the Prophet demanded unconditional surrender. After the surrender, the Jews of Banu Quraiza demanded that their fate not be decided by the Prophet 4, rather they requested that Sa'ad bin Mu'adh act as the judge to decide their fate. Sa'ad bin Muadh decided the fate of the Jews by the Law of Torah. This was a strict punishment which was meted out to the Jews through their own Law, their own choice, and their own judge. __ As per Torah Law, all the men of Banu Qurayzah (about 700) were put to death, their women and children were enslaved and their property was confis cated. The Quran mentions the fate of Banu Qurayzah as: "And those of the People of the Book who aided them (Allies), Allah did take them down from their strongholds and cast terror into their hearts; some you slew and some you made prisoners."(33:26) The Battle of Khyber (7 AH/627 AD) Khyber was a fertile farming area that included many strong fortresses about 70 miles north of Madinah. The population was predominantly Jewish and included many Jews exiled by the Holy Prophet'. They were a constant threat to the peace and security of the region due to their conspiring nature and military strength. In Muharram 7AH, the Holy Prophet led a 1400 strong army and besieged all their fortresses. The siege lasted for two weeks. Initially the Jews resisted but, aiter the major forts were captured, they were forced toUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet i 87 negotiate, seemg that the Muslim army was highly trained and disciplined, equipped with the latest weapons, including catapults The Holy Prophet' agreed to a peace treaty and this was the last encounter of the Jews with him. Reasons for the Change in the Prophet's ##¥ Attitude towards Jews There were a number of reasons and developments that led to drastic changes in the relations between the Muslims and the Jews. The Holy Propheta had made every sincere effort to make friends with the Jews. He tried to highlight similarities between the two communities by declaring the Jews and the Muslims as a single Ummah, by granting them religious liberty and equal status in the Charter of Madinah and by declaring them as the People of the Book. The Jews, however, did not reciprocate and never accepted the Prophethood. As a matter of fact, rise of the Prophet and Islam in and around Madinah had seriously threatened their designs of establishing their supremacy over Madinah in particular and whole of Arabia in general. During the early days after Hijrah they tried to exploit Islam for promoting their own interests but the gradual popularity of Islam and the Muslim victory at Badr frustrated them a lot. So they had religious, socio- economic and political reasons to remain hostile towards Islam. The monetary position of Banu Qainuqa was affected as the Muslims turned against them after the verses against Riba (usury) were revealed. Moreover, the alliance between Banu Qainuga and the Hypocrites (under Abdullah bin Ubayy) was also operative in making Muslims turn against the Jews. The economic interests of Banu Nadir and Banu Qurayzah were threatened as pressure on agricultural land increased after the arrival of Muhajireen in Madinah. The two Jewish tribes possessed some of the richest and most fertile lands in Madinah. They could not take the arrival of Muslims from Makkah lightly. Similarly, the Jews used to find faults in the Holy Prophet? and teachings of Islam. They would mock the Muslims for adopting Jerusalem as their Qiblah and for sharing a number of other religious rites of Jews such as the Ashura fast. They would compose anti-Islamic verses and mispronounce the Quranic verses with the intention of changing their meanings. The Jews continued to believe that they were the people whom God had specially chosen while the Prophet'#* would always assert that his Prophethood was the only possible basis and means of unity. Thus the .88 0° Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations relations between the Prophet and the Jews continued to worsen. The Prophet#& and the Hypocrites The opposition faced by the Prophet/i#" at Makkah was quite fierce and intense but equally open. At Madinah, however, the situation was different as there he was faced with the enemy in disguise: the Hypocrites who had apparently accepted the faith but were enemies of Islam from the core of their hearts. The Quran gives a description of the Hypocrites (munafigeen) in detail mentioning them as "those whose heart is diseased" (5:51) On about the arrival of the Prophet in Madinah, Abdullah bin Ubayy of Khazraj tribe had gained prominence and he strongly wished to become the chief of the Madinite politics with the help of his Jewish allies. He was therefore, greatly perturbed over the arrival and subsequent rise of the Prophet. He became the leading and the most important among the Hypocrites who, in his nefarious designs against the Holy prophew/", supported him. These Hypocrites, mainly during the first five years of the Hijrah, were engaged in weakening the Prophet's position by verbal arguments and by criticizing the Quran, especially some of the most recent revelations. Then, in the Battle of Uhad again the Hypocrite party tried to find excuses of not participating in the battle and their leader, Abdullah bin Ubayy deserted the Muslim army with his 300 men. The Prophet did not take any punitive action, though his followers desired so. Taking advantage of the Prophet's lenience, Abdullah bin Ubayy began to express his opposition towards the Prophet more openly, especially after the battle of Uhad. Throughout his life, Abdullah bin Ubayy left no stone unturned in damaging the Muslims through conspiracies and machinations, sometimes with the Quraish and sometimes with the Jews. Abdullah bin Ubayy even made a malignant effort by scandalizing the Prophet's # wife Ayesha until her innocence was declared by the Quranic verses. After this incident Abdullah bin Ubayy began to retreat and when he died, his funeral prayer was offered by the Prophet".Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 3° 89 Letters of the Prophet (BF ) 'Al-Madavin The attitude of the Prophet towards the hypocrites was not very strict, although Allah had identified them all to the Holy Prophet" and this he had shared with his close companion Hudhaifa bin Yaman. The major reason for this lenience was that if he had taken punitive action against them his repute might have been damaged for turning against his own people. So he acted in a wise way to let hypocrites die their own death. Letters to Foreign Countries The Prophet? now began to preach Islam beyond the frontiers of Arabia and wrote letters in 7AH./629AD to the neighbouring rulers inviting them to Islam. First he wrote to the Negus, King of Abysinnia, who readily embraced Islam.90 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Then to Mugawais, King of Egypt and Alexandria, who did not accept Islam but replied politely and sent gifts. The letter sent to the Chosroes, Emperor of Persia was torn by him, and the Holy Prophet ## predicted that the kingdom would tear apart likewise. Heraculis, King of Rome, recognized him as a Prophet but did not believe in him, Mundhir bin Sawa, Governor of Bahrain along with most of his subjects became Muslim as did Jafer, King of Oman. Harith bin Abi Shimr, King of Damascus and Haudha bin Ali, Governor: of Yarnamah, responded rudely to the Prophet's call and remained non- Muslims. Battle of Mu'tah In 7 AH (629 AD) the Holy Prophet sent Harith bin Umair 48 with a letter for the ruler of Bosra (Modern Day Syria), but he was intercepted and killed by Shurahbil Ghassani, the Roman governer of Al Bala. The killing of an envoy was an act of war, and the Holy Prophet" dispatched an army under Zaid bin Haritha 2 with detailed instructions regarding the chain of command. The Muslims met the two hundred thousand strong Roman army at Mu'tah; a place on the border between Arabia and the Roman Empire. The Holy Prophet##¥ was shown the battle by Allah's power while he was in Madinah and he related the events as they happened hundreds of miles away. Zaid bin Haritha 2%, then Jafar bin Abu Talib #8, then Abdullah bin Rawaha # were martyred in succession and then Khalid bin Walid took the command. He was able to make a successful retreat and it was a miracle and blessing from Allah that the entire Muslim army was not wiped out by the huge Roman legion. Conquest of Makkah (January 630 AD, Ramadan 8 AH) The Treaty of Hudaibiya remained effective for only two years. In 8 AH/630AD Banu Bakr (Allies of the Quraish), attacked Banu Khuza (Allies of the Muslims). The Quraish had incited Banu Bakr for this and suppliedsteps Pe ent Tle Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet fi? 91 them weapons, too. This was a breach of the Treaty, and now the Muslims had to take action. The Quraish now knew that the Muslim power had multiplied manifold during the last two years and were hesitant to fight them. Abu Sufyan proceeded to Madinah to request the Prophet##¥" for renewing the Treaty. He approached Prophet's##¥* wife (Ramla'# bint Abu Sufyan) but she did not entertain him and he then went to the Prophet" who also did not accept his proposal. He then approached Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali but failed to get any support. Finally, the Prophet declared march towards Makkah in January 630 AD/ Ramadan 8 AH. Prophet's Entry in Makkah The Prophet/i# ensured full security and secrecy before embarking on this extremely important mission. A small party was sent towards Syria to dissuade any notions. The Prophet's envoys secretly won over various neighbouring Bedouin tribes to join the Muslim army either at Madinah or en route. Then the roads to Makkah were sealed and finally the Prophet a' set out on 1st January 630 (10 Ramadan 8 AH) with an army of about ten thousand. Besides a large number of Muhajireen and Ansar, the army included men from several allied tribes. Finally, the army reached close to Makkah and then camped at Marr az- Zahran. The Makkans were taken aback and their hearts sank when the Muslim army appeared with ten thousand lit torches. Abu Sufyan approached the Prophet and surrendered before the might of the grand army. The Holy Prophet? granted special status to him, declaring his house to be a safe haven for whomsoever took refuge in it. He further declared that whomsoever did not fight and locked himself in his house would not be touched, and whoever took shelter in the Sacred Mosque would not be harmed: Finally, Umm Hanis house (Alls sister) was also declared a sanctuary. In the morning, the Prophet divided the army into four columns that were to enter Makkah from four directions. The first column was put under the Prophet's### own command, the second under Abu Ubaidah £48, the third under Sa'ad bin Ubadah 2 and the fourth was given in the charge of Khalid bin Walid 28. This was a superb demonstration of his God-given92 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations military skills and strategy. Only Khalid's $8 column was attacked but this resistance was soon 'overcome and twenty-four men of Quraish and two of Huday! were killed; against this only two Muslims were martyred. Hence, the Prophet #8" was fully successful in ensuring an almost bloodless takeover of the city of Makkah. It was 11 January 630 (20 Ramadan, 8 AH). The Prophet/&* set a unique example of mercy and pardon after his triumphant entry into his native town. He proclaimed a general amnesty for all of his enemies at Makkah except for a very small number of die- hard enemies of Islam (about four in all). The prominent leaders like Sohail bin Amr, Sufwan bin Umayyah, Abdullah bin Al Rabia'h and Harith bin al Hisham were also granted pardon after they had fled or taken shelter somewhere. Even a fatal enemy's son, Ikrimah bin Abu Jahl, was also forgiven and he embraced Islam as did most other Makkans. The Prophet" entered the Ka'bah after performing Tawaf (its circumambulation) and purified it from idols while reciting: "And say: Truth has (now) prevailed and Falsehood has perished; for Falsehood is bound to perish (by its nature)."(17:81) The Prophet then dispatched commanders to the neighbouring areas of Makkah to destroy idol- worship sites (idol- temples). Importance of the Conquest of Makkah The Prophet stayed at Makkah for about twenty days to make some future arrangements. The conquest was quite important in many ways. It was not just the conquest of a city but also the conquest of hearts of the Makkans who were deeply impressed by the greatness and magnanimity of the Prophet ##¥. This victory was an outcome of his superb military strategy and his tactics, diplomacy and statesmanship. This achievement was one of the great steps towards the cherished goal of unifying the whole of Arabia. His worst enemies would now serve as his most trusted allies for the expansion of Islam beyond the boundaries of Arabia. It also marked an enhancement in the spiritual status of the Prophet as he purified the House of Allah and thus, once again, fulfilled Allah's commandment to Prophet Abraham, "So, We covenanted with Ibraheem and Ismael that they shouldUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 8? 93 sanctify My House.."(2:125). Tou Ubaida bin Ardara So the victory opened the gates of center of Islam (Makkah) to the Muslims for all times to come. The hearts of the entire Arabia opened to Islam. How could anyone except Allah's true messenger attack the Ka'bah and succeed? Surely, Muhammadé#* must be a true Prophet. The subjugation of the Quraish marked the submission of the entire Arabia before the Holy Prophet/#.94 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Battle of Tabuk (Sept-Oct 630 AD) After the encounter at Mu'tah, the Roman legions regrouped at Tabuk to invade Arabia. The Holy Prophet? now called for another expedition of volunteers to march towards Tabuk. The companions displayed great sacrifices at this time once again. Firstly, it was the most important time of the year, as the harvests were ready for picking, yet they volunteered to leave and fight. Uthman bin Affan #8 donated war equipment and gold having total worth of about 50,000 Dirhams for this battle; Umar bin Khattab 8, half of all his belongings, and Abu Bakr #8 all of his belongings. The Holy Prophet/i8" marched out with an army of 30,000 and camped for a whole month at Tabuk. The Roman army was so stricken with awe that they didn't show up for the combat and the Muslims returned safely to Madinah. Battle of Hunain and the Seige of Taif (Jan-Feb 630 AD) Conquest of Makkah was shocking for the neighbouring pagan tribes and they were looking for an opportunity to undo the efforts of the Holy Prophet". The two warring (best archers) and brave tribes of Hawazin and Banu Thageef (of Taif) along with their allies encamped in the Valley of Hunain to fight the Muslims. Their army was very well equipped, accompanied by their families, with wealth and with their livestock, they were to fight till death. The Holy Prophet# met them with twelve thousand troops; 10,000 being those who accompanied him while he left Madinah and 2,000 being the new converts. At Hunain, in the deep ravine, most of his troops were surprisingly ambushed by the rival archers and almost forced to flee. However, with great effort, the fleeing Muslim troops were rallied round the Holy Prophet/#¥' and his bodyguard contingent stood firm. Therefore initially, the Muslims faced some losses but quickly managed to subdue the enemy. An enormous booty was captured and the Muslims came with an abundant wealth, The leader of the opposing army, Malik bin 'Auf managed to escape and along with a great many soldier, sought refuge in the fortress of Taif. So, the Muslim army under the Prophet's#¥ own leadership besieged that city. This siege continued for nearly forty days, during which both armies exchanged heavy fire. Then after consultation with the companions, theUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet "© 95 Holy Prophets lifted the siege from Taif, and moved back, seeing that the fortress was too well stocked and protected for any immediate surrender. He left them and the people of this city later approached him in Madinah to accept Islam. The Farewell Sermon The Holy Prophet performed his final pilgrimage in the 10th year of Hijra, He delivered his Farewell Sermon at Jabal e Rahma in the plain of Arafat to over 1,00,000 believers. The sermon is the ultimate charter of human rights, and the final message to his Ummah. The main points of the sermon are as follows. "Q my ment! Your blood, your possessions and your honour are sacrosanct upon one another until you meet your Lord, as hallowed as this day, this city and this month. You will be questioned there. Keep scrupulously the sanctity of your pledges. Beware! Do not be misled and cut each other's throats when I am not here. 0 people! I hereby annihilate all foul and filthy customs, traditions and usages, that you adhered to, in the era of ignorance (Jahiliya). Abolished are all transactions of usury (Riba). Remain God- fearing in regard to your wives. You entered into wedlock as a trust from God and made their person lawful to yourself by sanctifying holy words. You have this right over them that they not let your bed defiled and behave with open unseemliness. If they do so, God allows you to put them in separate rooms and to beat them but not severely; thus causing no marks. Your women have a right over you that they are fed, clothed well and treated with kindness and love. Lam leaving a legacy which, if you hold fast to, you will not go astray. That legacy is the Book of Allah and the practices Sunnah. 0 peopie! There shall be no messenger after me, nor a new ummah after jou. Listen carefully! Worship your Lord; offer the five daily prayers; keep fast. for a month (during Ramadan); give Zakat; perform the Hajj; and obey your elders in authority; (and as a reward for all this) be admitted to the Paradise (Jannah) of your Lord!96 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The End of the Prophetic Mission After his Farewell sermon when the verses "This day I have perfected your religion for you.." were revealed, it became obvious that the work of the Holy Prophet a was done and he would soon leave the Ummah. Now that the majority of Arabia had accepted Islam, and submitted to the Islamic communal system, the Holy Prophet##" began to consolidate his mission and position. Delegations began to arrive from all over the Arabian { Peninsula and beyond, mostly to accept Islam and some for the a sake of treaties. In fact, so many of them came that year. 9" AHis called the 'Year of Delegations' or 'Am ul Wafoud. The entire Arab nation came together under one banner of faith. This accomplished the mission of the Holy Prophet ##* and the later stages were to be left to his companions, i.e. to spread the message beyond the borders of Arabia. He also dispatched his last expedition, to avenge the unjust killing of the Muslim envoy to Rome, under Usama bin Zaid #3. The Holy Prophet?#" fell ill on 29" Safar 11 A.H. Mosque of the Holy Prophet (2°Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet jf 97 Messengers of Allah never fall ill, and when they do, it marks the end of their lives on this earth, Within days, the fever escalated and he was unable to lead the Salah (prayer). He appointed Abu Bakr as the Imam in his absence which was also a sign to be noted by the companions regarding succession of the Propheti"as the head of the Islamic state. The Holy Prophet' spent his last days in the abode of his wife Ayesha bint Abu Bakr &#, which was adjacent to his mosque. In the second week of Rabi ul Awal, 11 A.H., the Holy Prophet passed away as he was glorifying the name of Allah with his head in the lap of Ayesha (2. His funeral prayer was offered by the companions (4% in the very room and it was there that he is buried. The Holy Prophet #a¥ as a Model of Excellence The Holy Prophet? is the greatest reformer in the entire history of the world. He is an emblem of all the best virtues and excellent qualities that we can imagine. He was blessed with the attributes of mercy, tolerance, forgiveness, love, compassion, truthfulness, piety, righteousness and steadfastness to the degree of perfection. The Prophet" at the same time left indelible marks in various capacities as a leader, statesman, administrator, commander of the army, arbitrator and the supreme lawgiver. He also lived a successful life as a loving husband, a caring father and an absolutely reliable friend. The Holy Quran bears witness to these great qualities of the Prophet at many places. In Surah Al Qalam this verse very concisely and precisely admires the Prophet: "And you (O Prophet) stand on an exalted standard of character." (68:4) This means that the Prophet/ia' possessed the highest degree of nobility of , character. The Quran commands us to follow in the footsteps of the Prophet and relates it with a faith in and praise of God by saying: "(0 People) you have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern of conduct for everyone whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who engages much in the praise of God."(33:21)98 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The Muslims are, therefore, required to follow his most beautiful pattern of conduct in order to attain salvation and good pleasure of God. Mercy and Forgiveness of the Holy Prophet' The Holy Prophet##¥ was a symbol of mercy and forgiveness for all his opponents and even fatal enemies. He never cursed anyone nor ever expressed any desire for revenge or retaliation. The Holy Quran endorses this fact as: "We sent you not but as a mercy for all the creation."(21:107 Al- Ambiya) He set several examples of forgiveness and amnesty in his life, Throughout his Makkan life he faced utmost and worst kind of opposition and inhuman persecution but he would never curse his enemies. A Makkan woman used to throw garbage and trash on him whenever the Prophet happened to pass through the street she lived in. One day the Prophet walked through the same street but no garbage was thrown at him. He got curious about the old woman and went upstairs especially to enquire about her well being. He came to know that she had fallen ill and the Prophet began to look after her till she had fully recovered. This impressed her so much that she embraced Islam. Then, when he visited Taif in 619 A.D he met even more discouraging and insulting response. He tried to invite the people of Taif to Islam but they reacted angrily and began to mock him so much so that he had to leave that town. The arrogant people of Taif pelted him with stones and injured him and his companion Zaid bin Haritha #8 to the extent that their bodies began to bleed. On his way back to Makkah the Prophet continued to seek Allah's help and then Jibreel* appeared along with the angel of Mountains who asked his permission to bury Taif between the two mountains. The Prophet, however, set another example of extreme mercy by replying: "No, I hope that God will let them beget children who will worship God alone." Yet another demonstration of the Prophet's mercy is to be seen on the eve of his victorious march into Makkah in 8 A.H. (630 A.D). Alll his worst(ee ae faa, | pee Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 99 and mortal enemies looked at him with fear-striken faces and with an anxiety of a retaliating and punitive response from the Prophet}. They were but stunned when the Prophet/ia declared general amnesty for them and thus won not only the city but also the hearts of the Makkans. Then several among the Muhajireen (Exiles) expected to regain their lost properties in Makkah that the Makkans had forcibly occupied but the Prophet/ia¥* did not show any such intention. His wife, Zainab bint Jahash's 4 brother even requested him for the recovery of his house but the Prophet? satisfied him by promising a grand house in Paradise (annah). Thus were all other claimants dissuaded from similar claims. Another example of the Prophet's## generous heart is to be seen after his victory at Hunain January 630 A.D). The Hawazin Chief Malik bin 'Auf had fled from Taif and the Prophet/## sent him a message of amnesty plus a reward of one hundred camels as a gesture of goodwill. This greatly impressed Malik bin Auf and he did not hesitate in embracing Islam. He was again appointed the chief of his tribe by the Holy Prophet/iz". The Prophet as a Symbol of Steadfastness and Patient Perseverance The Makkan period of the life of the Prophet is replete with examples of firmness of faith and patience and perseverance in the face of ever- worsening circumstances and intensifying opposition of the Quraish. The Holy Prophet" was tortured and teased both physically and mentally but he remained unshaken in his faith which indeed was strengthened despite the increasing hostility of the Makkans, He was labelled as an insane person and a crafty poet by the Makkans but the Prophet? would remain engaged (absorbed) in his mission because he had complete faith in God's support that came in with such assurances and consolations as: "By the Star when it goes down. Your Companion (Muhammad) is neither astray nor being misled. Nor does he say of his own desire." (63:1-3 Najm) He was mocked by his own uncle Abu Lahab and other Makkan chiefs, over the death of his son and this saddened him but his faith was bound to be strengthened when God promised him the abundance of spiritual children:100 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambtidge Examinations "We indeed have granted you the Abundance." (Surah Kawthar; 108:1) Then the Quraish approached the uncle of the Prophet/i#", Abu Talib and asked him to pressurize his nephew to abandon his mission. The Prophet's reply, however, was even more frustrating for them when he said: "Q my uncle! By God, if they put the Sun on my right hand and the Moon on my left on the condition that I abandon this course, | would not abandon it until God has made me victorious or I perish therein." Thus the Quraish would redouble their opposition and the Prophet/ia¥* would remain unmoved and uninfluenced. After the conversion of Umar bin Al-Khattab 2% and Hamzah bin Abdul Mutalib 2, the Quraish changed their strategy and sent Utbah bin Rabiah to negotiate with the Prophet? and offer him marvelous worldly attractions—chiefdom of Makkah, immense wealth or marriage with the most beautiful woman. Utbah, too, was disappointed when the Prophet flatly refused all the offers, We find the Prophet? absolutely firm and resolute during the three years of the Social Boycott imposed jointly by the Makkan Chiefs when he and the members of Banu Hashim had to live (besieged) for three years in the Shi'b (Gorge) of Abi Talib under sub- human conditions. Similarly the Prophet?" is seen as a fully determined man having complete reliance in Allah during his three-day-stay in the cave of Thaur together with Abu Bakr 8 during the journey of emigration to Madinah. At the most critical juncture of their stay the Prophet is seen to comfort Abu Bakr 8 by saying: "Do not grieve, verily, God is with us." (Tauba; 9:40) The Prophet## continued to set examples of firmness throughout his Madinite life and during his clashes with the Makkans till he had gained the decisive victory by conquering Makkah.Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #101 The Prophet it as a Dynamic Leader and a Superb Administrator and statesman 'Another wonderful quality of the Holy Prophet/i#" was his leadership and administration. The Prophet' possessed enviable qualities of head and heart. He remained calm yet steadfast in the hostile environs of Makkah and then he established his worth as a successful and strong leader at Madinah. He took several daring decisions in order to promote peace and tranquility in Madinah. Hef, for example, managed to unite the mutually hostile tribes of 'Aus and Khazraj on the one hand and the Muslims and the Jews on the other (during the early years). He established a new kind of brotherhood (Mawakhat) between the Muhajireen and the Ansar. Hef was the best strategist and could therefore fight any enemy even. many times stronger than the Muslims. According to him,"War is nothing but deception" His great success was to foil the attempt of the Allies to win over the Jews of Banu Qurayza during the siege of Madinah in 5 A.H. If that attempt had gained success, it might have brought destruction for Madinah. in spite of his own genius he was in the habit of consulting his Shoora, the body of his advisors, on all important occasions. This is a habit that should be followed by all Muslim leaders of modern times. The Prophet, similarly, set several examples of dispensing justice without any prejudice or discrimination. In Madinah often cases were brought before him by the non-Muslims against the Muslim citizens of the same town. The Prophet, in many instances, gave strong rulings even against some of the noted companions. A companion, Abdullah bin Abi Hadrad Ansari 2#8 was indebted by five Dirhams to a Jew. Abdullah was in a state of sheer poverty but the Jew was not willing to give him any concession and he appealed in the court of the Prophet/i## for the recovery of his debt. On Prophet's orders Abdullah #5 sold one of his garments for three Dirhams and borrowed two Dirhams from another companion to retire the debt of the Jew. In Madinah, it was a custom among the issueless women that they vowed to God that if a child was born to one she would devote the child to Judaism. Now after conversion to Islam several Muslim women wanted to get their children back and make them Muslims. When the matter was102 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations brought to the Prophet/i## he gave his verdict that it was up to the choice of the children themselves and they could not be forced by Muslims. The Prophet #&¥ took special care of the rights and protection of the non- Muslim citizens of the Republic of Madinah. He(i#¥ declared: "Whoever committed any excess against a non-Muslim or used force against him unjustly, I will advocate against such a Muslim on the Final Day." Non- Muslims were never forcibly recruited in the Muslim army and they just had to pay a nominal tax (Jizya) in return for the security provided to them by the Muslim government. Even in this regard the Prophet's statement over the death of his son Ibraheem (from the Coptic wife, Maria) is worth quoting: "If Ibraheem had survived, I would have exempted all the Coptic (Egyptian Christian) population from the payment of Jizya." Prophet's" Honesty and Reliability The Holy Prophet had established a strong repute in Makkah in his youth even before he was formally awarded prophethood. He was known by the titles of al-Sadiq (the truthful) and al-Amin (the trustworthy). It was due to his sheer honesty in all affairs that Khadija hired him as her trade agent and later she also married him. It was again due to his thorough truthfulness and nobility that the Quraish continued to acknowledge his virtues despite rejecting his message and invitation to Islam. His closest companion and aide, Abu Bakr, never hesitated or doubted whatever the Prophet/ia told or decided. Even in the court of the Negus, the pagans of Makkah acknowledged the nobility and honesty of the Prophet. The Quran bears witness to the truth of the Messenger by declaring: "Verily, we have sent you in truth as a bearer of glad tidings and a warner."(Surah Baqara) The degree and nature of the Prophet's honesty can be gauged from the fact that he asked Ali 3 to sleep in his bed in the night of Hijra so that AliUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 103, could return the various valuables kept by the Prophet as a trust, to their owners. Throughout his life the Prophet" continued to emphasize on the value and need of honesty and fairplay by condemning all modes of Haram (illegal) earnings such as bribery, usury (Riba) and other similar undesirable means. Hei" declared a person as Allah's friend who earns by sheer hard work: "One who earns for himself (by his own hands and hard work) is a friend of Allah." warned the giver and taker of bribery (against Fire of Hell) by saying: "One who offers a bribe and the one who accepts it will both go to hell." Thus Prophet's life continues to guide us on the path of ultimate success and salvation. How can the Muslims apply the Prophet's? examples to their lives? Muslims today can put into practice the golden examples set for them by their Prophet", Muslim traders can demonstrate their true love for the Prophet by acting uprightly and honestly. They should remember that cheating can bring them quick and handsome profits but at the cost of their faith since the Prophet has categorically said: "One who cheats is not among us." A true Muslim trader will therefore never indulge in the cursed practice of adulteration in food or medicinal items. He will, likewise, never give short measure, as he will always remember this commandment: "So establish weight with justice and fall not short in the balance."(55:9; Al-Rahman) The Muslim Ummah today needs to be firm and steadfast in its mission of104 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations inviting others to Islam. The non-Muslims can ask them a number of tricky questions about the relevance of Islamic injunctions in the modern world but they should patiently hear such questions and try to answer them politely and in a satisfying manner. They may feel being mocked or ridiculed but they should remember the example set by the Prophet" in this regard. They should continue to impress their non-Muslim fellows by acting in a sober way and by engaging themselves in intellectual debates and healthy discussions. They themselves should not mock or insult in return. Finally, the leaders of the Muslim states have a lot to learn from the Prophet's" leadership qualities. They should treat the non-Muslim subjects with love and honour in order to win their hearts. They should make efforts to discourage any insulting attitude towards their non- Muslim subjects. The Quran says: "Let there be no compulsion in religion." (2:255) The Prophet's#° example may be summed up in the Quranic verse from Surah Al-e-Imran: "Say (O Muhammad): If you truly love Allah, follow me; Allah will love you and forgive your sins; for, Allah is Oft-forgiving, most Merciful." Thus it is only by following the example of the Holy Prophet that Muslims can show their love for Allah, and earn His love as well. Finality of the Prophethood The verse: "This day have | perfected your religion for you; completed My Favour upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your religion', from Surah Al-Maida (5:3) has a special bearing on the tradition: "There will be no prophet after me and no Umma after you', Its interpretation, made immediately after the death of the Prophet by hisFEE Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet fi 105 successors and in particular by Ali Murtaza%#, the intellectual giant of Islam while bathing the body of the Prophet ##* was as: "Your death has meant the termination of the prophethood, prophecy and revelation of God's Word." This interpretation has remained an integral part of the faith of all the scholars of the world of Islam to this day. The tradition, "There would be no prophet after me", is a reflection of the Quranic verse: "Muhammad, is the Messenger of Allch, and the Seol of prophe (33:40) Since the prophethood was sealed by Allah Almighty, there can be no prophet appearing thereafter except pretenders as also predicted by the Holy Prophet's himself. Two of such (imposters), Musailima, the Liar and Aswad Ansi claimed prophethood in his lifetime. A tradition says, "Umar bin Khattaaiy prophethood was to says, 'There is a bea corners a brick is mi: From the verses of the Holy Quran and the Ahadith, it is clear that the Finality of Prophethood is a natural sequence of the perfected religion in accordance with the designs of Allah Almighty. The Holy Prophet's" example and teachings regarding the Conduct of the Individual & the Muslim community. Treatment to fellow Muslims Teachings of the Quran and instructions of the Sunnah constitute a comprehensive package of guidance for the Muslims in their individual as well as communal lives. Teachings about social interaction are a very106 —_O' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations important part of Islam's guiding principles. The ultimate goal of Islam is to create and then nourish a healthy society, all members of which are caring, loving and supportive towards each other. The Holy Prophet/i#" showered affection upon his companions that is unmatched by any leader in the world history. Although he held the highest station amongst the Islamic community, being a Prophet", he spent his life as a simple and humble man amongst them. He never demanded special treatment from his followers, rather discouraged discriminatory privileges for himself. This set:the example for the Rightly Guided Caliphs, and other Muslims for all times to come. When the first masjid at Madinah was being constructed, the Holy Prophet ie participated in the manual labour as did all the Muslims. The companions urged him not to tire himself in such a menial chore, as perhaps is expected of a great leader. The Holy Prophet, being the greatest of great leaders, chose to be 'one of them' and was found not only picking and placing bricks with the labourers, but actually doing a better job! Once when he entered upon a gathering, those present stood in respect for him. He expressed dislike at this action, and said that a person who desired that others stand in his presence would never enter Paradise. One of the poor companions got married. The Holy Prophet/#", perhaps feeling that now that he had become a family man, decided to help him. However, the Holy Prophet/##* didn't want to injure his self respect and thus offered to buy his camel. When they agreed on a price, the Holy Prophet/ia" paid in cash. When the companion was about to leave, the Holy Prophet/i# gave him the same camel as a gift. This is an example from the best friend that anyone had about how we can help out our friends without hurting their pride. 'Treatment to Strangers Islam declares the whole humankind a single family on the basis of common parentage. The Holy Prophet for the same reason instructed: "Give food and greeting to those you know and those you do not know."Se Fee | Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet i 107 It is to be noted that the Islamic mode of greeting is unique in the sense that it is a direct supplication by the one who offers it and the recipient in turn reciprocates in the same way. The Holy Prophet" himself was in the habit of taking initiative in extending greetings to others. Hef" also set several examples of showing kindness and cordiality towards his guests, especially those who happened to be strangers. In his own deeds, he was respectful towards all others. Once he was walking along when an old man crossed his path. The Holy Prophev' courteously let him pass. Someone said, "O Prophet! He is Jew!" The Holy Prophet/'#" replied that he was an elderly man and must be respected. The Holy Prophet's teaching in this regard remain alive even today. In today's Muslim world, strangers are treated with honour wherever they may go The Holy Prophet's treatment to children Islamic teachings about family matters provide guidance and instructions about the role that parents must play in the upbringing of their children. First of all, infanticide (killing of infants) is strictly disallowed in Islam irrespective of the circumstances. Secondly, Islam forbids discriminate treatment of the male and female child. The Holy Prophet himself had four daughters whom he loved very much. Two of them were married to Uthman bin Affan (at different times) and he gave him the title of Zun Noorain (possessor of two lights). Also he would rise in respect for his daughter Fatimah. This shows the high regard the Holy Prophet" had for his daughters. Thirdly the rules of upbringing are also laid out. The Holy Prophet i laid great emphasis on teaching children good manners. He said that this was the greatest gift that a parent could give a child, i.e., good manners. A father must provide for the maintenance of both his sons and daughters without least degree of discrimination and he should take full care of all their physiological, spiritual and emotional needs. In this regard this saying of the Prophet is worth quoting: "Whoever maintains two daughters till they attain maturity, he and I will be together on the Resurrection Day like this"108 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations upon which the Prophet" joined his fingers. His grandchildren too, Hassan and Hussain @#, were always included in his gestures of affection. Often they would climb onto his shoulder while he was in prayer, causing the Prophet! to prolong it. He/® never scolded them for this as they were too young to understand their actions at that time. Not only his own children, but the Holy Prophet/#¥ used to show great affection to the children of others. Whenever he would come across a child, he would show his affection and make Dua for the child. Once, a Bedouin expressed surprise at this, saying he had never even kissed his own children. The Holy Prophet reprimanded him, saying that he who didn't show affection to the young, wasn't a true believer. Relations with Enemies When the Prophets" said "The best among people are those who are of help to people", he included all people in his statement not just Muslims. This saying tells us the major criterion of being the best Muslim individuals. Certainly extending help to others breeds love and brotherhood. Life of the Prophet i is full of several examples of treating the enemies kindly and politely, Throughout his thirteen years of Makkan life as a Messenger he was abused, taunted, mocked and tortured but he never cursed anybody ona single occasion and instead he would always pray for the guidance of his enemies. The exemplary demonstration of this was on his visit to Taif where a gang of hooligans tortured him so much that his body began to bleed profusely. When Jibrilt2 asked him if his enemies should be crushed by the command of God, his reply was a humble prayer for the mischievous people of Taif. The Quran for this show of forgiveness declared: "We sent you not but as a mercy for all creatures' Thus the Prophet ### left lasting example of kindness and mercy for his followers. Similarly, the way the prisoners of the Battle of Badr were treated also serves as an example to follow. The prisoners were all treatedUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #109 politely and kindly and those who could afford to pay the ransom money were released soon. The poor, the weak and the elderly were freed while some of the educated captives were released after each of them had taught ten Muslims at Madinah. Islamic code of conduct of war even forbids any damage to such objects of nature as trees, crops and livestock in the enemys territory, Islam put a complete ban on the inhuman and heinous practice of mutilation of the dead bodies of the enemy's soldiers, which was prevalent among the pre-Islamic Arabs. The Prophet" even forgave Hind who had mutilated the dead body of his beloved uncle Hamza #3 in the Battle of Uhud as well as his assassin Wahshi bin Harb. The Prophet/# perfected his attributes of forgiveness and clemency when he declared general pardon for his worst and fatal enemies on the conquest of Makkah. There is no example in human history of such a great act of forgiveness. As a matter of fact the habit of forgiving one's enemies is a reflection of strong faith in Allah's attribute of extending unlimited mercy as a reward. Treatment of Non-Muslims 4 {Islamic teachings about the community life and social interaction are aimed at promoting universal brotherhood, peace and love. Islam does not encourage any110 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations kind or degree of compulsion towards the non-Muslim subjects living in a Muslim state. The Quran clearly says: "Let there be no compulsion in religion'. (2:256) The residing subjects as well as the visitors have this assurance about their safety in a Muslim state. The Prophet ### demonstrated this vision practically while establishing the City- State of Madinah. In this State, Muslims, Jews, pagan Arabs, all entered a social contract for peaceful co- existence. He framed the constitution of this City- State by signing the Treaty of Madinah. One of the clauses of this Treaty stated: "To Muslims their religion, and to Jews their religion" This clause declared the Jews and the Muslims as one Ummah (community) and provided complete religious and civic liberty to the Jews. The Islamic Law describes the Christians and the Jews as 'People of the Book' and allows the Muslim men to marry women from among these religious groups without forcibly converting them to Islam, as well as share food with them. The Holy Prophet imposed a special tax (Jiziyah) upon non-Muslim subjects living under a Muslim ruler who was responsible for protecting the life, honour and property of the non-Muslims (Dhimmis). Women, children and poor people were exempted from Jiziyah and there were several other incidents of exemption. Two examples are worth quoting. When the Prophet/i## received the news of the death of his son Ibrahim #2 whose mother (Maria 4) was Coptic, he declared: "Had he (Ibrahim) survived I would have exempted all the Copts from the Jiziyah as a mark of esteem for Ibraheer's mother" Similar generosity was shown by Caliph Umar who exempted a non- Muslim Egyptian from Jiziya forever when he put forward the project of re- digging the ancient canal from Fustat (Cairo) down to the Red Sea thus facilitating the maritime transport of the foodstuffs from Egypt to Madinah. The Prophet in this regard especially said: "Whoever oppresses the non-Muslim subjects, shall find me to beUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet "111 their advocate on the Day of Resurrection'. even upto the last moments continued to direct: "Observe scrupulously the protection accorded by me to the non- Muslim subjects". These sayings and practices set examples for the Muslims for all times to treat kindly the non-Muslims and to establish friendly relations with them. The Muslims are advised to impress the non- Muslims by acting as a role model so that they are attracted towards Islam. Similarly Islam allows the Muslims to peacefully preach (Da'wah) to the non-Muslims the teachings and rulings of Islam while granting the non- Muslims the right to preserve their beliefs. To conclude, the Muslims are required to promote friendship with non- Muslims whether they live in a Muslim State or elsewhere. In a Muslim State, the non- Muslim subjects enjoy complete legal, social, political and religious liberty. The Holy Prophet's/#" Treatment of Women According to Islam a woman is completely equated with man in terms of her rights and responsibilities because the Quran says: "whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has faith, verily, to him (or her) We give a new life that is good and pure.." (5:124) These two Quranic verses make no distinction of gender for the reward of God and accountability before Him. For the same reason the Prophet a" clearly stated: "Seeking knowledge is a duty of every Muslim man and Muslim woman", This means that Islam places woman at the same level as man in the basic and most important spheres and matters of life. The pillars of Islam are equally binding on men and women except for the slight degree of exemption for women during their menstrual and pregnancy periods.112 0 Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations The Prophet/i#¥ further explained this in one of his Ahadith: rer alive, does not will enter him er and does not bur Thus Islam completely reversed the situation in favour of women in a society where the birth of a girl child was taken as a curse. The Prophet" gave Uthman 28 the honoured title of 'Zunnurain' (possessor of two lights) as he had married two daughters of the Prophet. (After the death of his wife Ruqaiyyah 2, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad", he was married to his second daughter Umm-e-Kulthum (.) Women are granted a dignified status as wives. Islam restricted the unlimited polygamy with a maximum of four wives. The Quran declared husbands as the maintainers and protectors of wives by saying: Lare maintain According to Islamic Law, a woman cannot be forced to marry against her will. After marriage she enjoys similar rights in most of the affairs. The Quran says: e right ve righ' The Holy Prophet repeatedly instructed the believers to be kind to their wives. In a Hadith he said: This means that the best criterion of judging a husband's conduct is his treatment with his wife. The Prophet himself demonstrated this by giving equal love, time and attention to his wives. Islamic Law even granted the right to seek divorce by a woman from her husband through Khula'. Women were also ensured a due share in the property left by their deceased husbands and parents. The Holy Prophet/i4¥" said that the best amongst the Muslims is the man whose behavior towards his family is the best.Ea Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet fi" 113 'A Muslim husband is required to be caring, loving and considerate towards his wife and the wife should in return reciprocate her husband's love by taking full care of his needs. The Prophet's(i&¥ instructions in his Farewell Sermon are worth- quoting in this regard: "0! you people, you have right over your wives and you! have rights over you. Treat your wives with kiv verily, you have taken them on the security of A! Thus both husband and wife are a source of support, comfort and protection to each other and so they are expected to recognize the spheres of their rights and responsibilities. The way the Holy Prophet treated his wives can be assessed by the fact that he would send gifts to the family and friends of Khadija @ even after she had passed away. The Prophet accorded an exalted status to women in the capacity of mother. He summed up all the Islamic teachings about the status of mothers by saying: "Paradise lies under the feet of mothers" This special status was given to mothers because of their sufferings and endurance during the pregnancy period and the upbringing of the children. The Quran similarly mentions the pains suffered by a mother in this verse: "And We have enjoined upon man to be good to his parents; his mother bears him in weakness upon weakness....(@1:14) Here the mother has been specially mentioned because of her special ordeals and sufferings that she undergoes. For the same reason the Prophet in an incident thrice insisted on serving one's mother and only the fourth time he told the questioner to serve his father. The Prophet's own kind treatment towards his foster mother Halima is a wonderful example. He used to call her 'ny mother". The Prophet/i## had a foster sister Sheema (daughter of Halima). When she was captured in Hunain, he released her immediately and upon hearing that she was his sister, the entire clan of Banu S'ad was freed. Also when the Holy Prophet was growing up in the house of Abu Talib, his elder daughter, Umm-e- Hani', would often look after him as she was114 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations somewhat older. As is common in such relationships, the Holy Prophet 2" always looked up to her as an older sister. At the conquest of Makkah, he declared that Umm-e-Hani's house would be a safe haven. With unfamiliar women (Ghair Mahram), he would observe the Quranic principles and never look at them. Hea would show them respect and give them honour. He/i#*" also practised the Quranic commandment: "Whosoever alleged any woman of misconduct or tried to slander her character, would be lashed 80 times." The Holy Prophet's# Teachings about financial Ethics The Holy Prophet/#, as in all other walks of life, was a perfect model of business ethics. First of all, he forbade all unfair means of income. In almost every sermon he would urge the companions to earn living by fair means. He said, "He who seeks the world lawfully to refrain from begging to cater to his family, and to be kind to his neighbors will meet God with his face shining like the full moon'" Once he observed that a seller of grains had tried to camouflage defective goods, he strongly reprimanded him, telling him to display and not to deceive. He also ordered all sellers to clearly inform their buyers not only of the merits, but also the defects, if any, of their merchandise. He also stopped buyers of foodstuff from unnecessarily eating for free from stalls under the excuse of sample- testing. He himself was known as 'Al Sadiq & Al Amin', the Truthful and the Trustworthy even before the proclamation of prophethood. The Prophet/#¥ declared a cheater as non-believer by saying: "One who cheats is not amongst us" There was a business partner of the Prophet at Makkah. This man, named Sa'ib reported: "whenever Muhammad? led the caravan, he did not enter his house on his return to Makkah without clearing accounts with me".Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet 3 115 The Prophet##* worked with the same honesty for Khadija " as her trade agent. She was so impressed that she decided to marry him. Also, the Holy Prophet" prohibited a fraudulent and ambiguous transaction. Similarly, the Prophet?" condemned bribery by saying: "he who gives a bribe and he who takes a bribe will both go to hellfire" In Islamic mode of business or business partnership all those methods which harm others are not permissible. Hoarding is one such practice. The Prophet/#* said: "Hoarding is accursed" The Holy Prophet i reformed all aspects of the society he was sent in. The Arab financial system was based mostly on the exploitative method of usury or interest. The Quran names it as Riba and declares that it must be given up (Sura Bagarah; Verse 275). The Holy Prophets from the very beginning began to cleanse the economic infrastructure of Madinah from interest. He encouraged that people engage in Musharika etc which are special forms of partnerships. In such partnerships, the parties share amongst themselves not only profits but also losses. This banished the exploitation of the working class by the capital holders. The major reason for condemning Riba is the fact that it is a way of making money without any degree of hard work. Islam, on the other hand, encourages its followers to make actual effort for earning in the light of this Hadith: "One who works for himself is a friend of God." The Prophet not only condemned Riba but also took practical steps to abolish this cursed and cruel practice. When he signed the treaty with the Christians of Najran, he added a special clause which stated that if the people of Najran indulged in Riba the treaty would stand null and void and the Muslims would feel compelled to wage a war against them. The Banu Mughirah in Arabia was notorious for charging usury. After the Conquest of Makkah he abolished all their usury and ensured that they would not116 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations practise in future, In place of Riba, the Prophet" introduced the system of Zakah as a compulsory poor-due and a means to purify one's legally acquired wealth. Itis a pillar of Islam and at many places in the Quran is mentioned together with Salah, e.g. Zakah is an effective means of helping the fellow Muslims. In addition to this, there is the Qard-i-Hasanah or the goodly loan. This is an interest- free loan in which the debtor or borrower has to repay the principal amount without any extra money (Interest). The Quran promises great reward for both charity and Qard-i-Hasanah. Instead of exploiting a needy Muslim, the Prophet" urged that s/he should be helped from either the Zakah fund, and if it is not available, then by raising funds from individual sources. He presented the example himself by borrowing, if need be, to help a needy person. Islam in the Community Life Islamic community is based on solid disciplines that make it a distinct society. These include brotherhood based on common faith, social equality with piety being the sole criterion of one's superiority over the other, specified spheres of rights and responsibilities, modesty, healthy circulation of wealth, promoting peace and love, establishment of justice and tolerance towards the non- Muslim citizens. We see such a community in its perfect shape in Madinah when the Holy Prophet', after emigration from Makkah (in 622 A.D), introduced the cardinal principles of Islam in community life and successfully laid down the foundation of an Islamic Republic. The Prophets demonstrated the brotherhood based on common faith (Islam) by way of Mawakhat or brotherhood between the Muhajirin and the Ansar. The Holy Quran states this fact by saying: The Prophet' further elaborated the spirit of this brotherhood and mutual love by saying:Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet "117 Thus Islamic brotherhood is a product of true spirit of sacrifice and love for the fellow beings. Similarly, social equality, justice and supremacy of law are the important features of the Islamic community. The Quran declares equality of all humans before Allah as it says: From this we learn that all the members of an Islamic community are equal regardless of the social status or race or colour. Only the most pious and righteous enjoy more closeness to Allah. This makes all equal before the law and ensures observance of social justice. The Holy Quran and the Ahadith of the Holy Prophet" attach great importance to the dispensation of justice. The Quran says: Allah Himself is Just as He will dispense most perfect justice on the Final Day and therefore, He wants to see His obedient servants to do justice so that they may prepare themselves for the ultimate accountability before Him. Now, ensuring the general well-being and prosperity of a community is intimately linked with social justice and equilibrium since poverty breeds crime and then this leads to disturbance in the law and order of a society. Islam has introduced the institution of the poor- due or Zakah. Payment of Zakah is one of the five pillars of Islam and it is an effective means of healthy circulation of wealth that guards against disparity and social inequality. According to the Holy Prophet ia":118 0' Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations It will be taken from the rich and returned to the poor" This means that whatever is paid to the poor as Zakah is in fact their rightful share and this is further confirmed by this Quranic verse: "And those in whose wealth is a recognized right for the petitioner (who asks for) and him who is prevented (from asking for same reason)."(70:24- 25) For this reason regular payment of Zakah has been made obligatory so that we keep helping the needy while at the same time purifying our earnings. Ina typical Islamic community mosques are among its hallmarks. The Prophet/ii", after emigrating to Madinah took a number of important steps among which was included the construction of mosque. The mosque of the Prophet served not only as a place of worship but also the community centre of the Muslim Ummah where all important meetings and negotiations were held and all vital decisions were also made there. Mosques are a symbol of the Muslim unity and fraternity where regular prayers, the Friday prayers, the Eid prayers, and even community meetings the funeral prayers. The Prophet/#" highlighted the importance of mosques by saying: "Mosques are among the most beloved places in the sight of Allah." The members of the Muslim community are required to help each other in all matters of piety and discourage all evil and indecent acts. The Quran clearly enjoinsupon us: "Help one another in righteousness and piety but do not help one another in sin and rancor and fear Allah for Allah is strict in punishment."(Sura al Maida) Similar degree of cooperation and help are required by the Muslim community towards its ruler as long as he follows the Islamic injunctions and is a sincere and pious Muslim. He is to be helped if he does not violate the injunctions prescribed and designed by Allah because the Quranic verses at several places make it clear that only Allah's law is to prevail:Unit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #119 "the command is for none but Allah . . ."(12:40) Thus the State ruler is to be followed and assisted if he follows the course of Shariah and tries to establish a model Islamic State. It is also incumbent upon the ruler to exercise Shoora or consult his aides as was the case in the time of the Prophet and his early successors. The Quran repeatedly commands us to consult each other (3:159, 27:32, 42:38). For example 42:38 says: "Those who hearken to their Lord and establish regular prayer, who conduct their affairs by mutual consultation." Islam strongly condemns all forms of illicit relations between men and women. It declares adultery and fornication as the major sins and provides a healthy solution in the form of marriage. Marriage is the basis of the family system of Islam and the Prophet has instructed the believers to go for marriage: "Whoever amongst you can afford to marry he must marry for it makes man modest and chaste." Finally, there are clear and manifest instructions about the status of non- Muslims in an Islamic community. They have been declared as Dhimmis and as Ahl-i-Kitab or People of the Book (Christians and Jews) and they enjoy all religious liberty in a Muslim State because of this Quranic injuction: "Let there be no compulsion in religion."(2:256) The Prophet/i#" declared the Jews and the Muslims as a single Ummah (community) under the Charter of Madinah and this reflects the nature and degree of accommodation in Islam for the non-Muslims. Hence, it is evident that there is fully explained guidance and set examples that demonstrate the various aspect of an Islamic community and that guide the present-day Muslims to follow these wholeheartedly for success in the hereafter.120 0? Level Islamiyat for Cambridge Examinations Muslim States and Their Relations with other States The guiding principles about the foreign policy of a Muslim State were laid down by the Holy Quran, implemented by the Holy Prophet between 622 AD and 632 AD and finalized by the Rightly- Flag of O1C Guided Caliphs from 632 to 661 AD. The Holy Prophet" had established the first Republic after emigrating from Makkah in 622 AD. Thus Medina emerged as a city-state vis-a-vis the tribal state of Makkah. The Holy Prophet/ii" wanted to preach the Divine message in a peaceful manner but the Makkans had adopted a hostile attitude towards him and wanted to dislodge him from Madinah. Consequently the city- state of Madinah was attacked and besieged on three major occasions— Badr (624 AD), Uhud (625 AD) and Trench (627 AD). The Holy Prophet7*, therefore, had to fight to defend the Islamic state against those who wished to wipe it out. He then signed a 10 year peace treaty (Treaty of Hudaibiya) with the Makkans in 6 AH (628 AD). The treaty was, however, violated by the Quraish of Makkah and the Prophet undertook offensive against them in 630 AD but entered his native town in an incredibly peaceful way. He declared general amnesty on this epoch-making occasion. With this conduct he not only conquered a city but also won the hearts of his fatal enemies. The moral principle underlying all these occasions was to nourish and nurture a community of believers that would not indulge in any kind or degree of oppression in the light of the following Quranic verse: "That house of the Hereafter We shall give to those who intend not high- handedness or mischief on earth."(al- Qasas 28:83) The city-state of Madinah, therefore, never encouraged or practised any mischievous activity or high- handedness. Another example illustrating the Holy Prophet's" poticy, as the Head of State in Madinah, towards other states was set in 7 AH (629 AD), about one year after the signing of the Hudaibiya Pact. The Prophet/i#" wrote letters to a number of neighbouring Emperors and Rulers and invited themUnit 3: Life & Importance of the Holy Prophet #121 in a cordial and graceful manner to the new faith. These rulers included the king of Persia, Khusro Pervaiz, Heracleus Caesar of Rome, Negus the King of Abyssinia, Muqawqus the Roman Governor of Egypt and many others. The Holy Prophet" received varying replies from these rulers. The Persian King Khusrow Pervez not only insulted the Muslim envoy but also tore the letter of the Prophet. The Prophet", however, demonstrated utmost degree of self-restraint and forbearance and did not lose hope. In the long run, however, his efforts began to bear fruit as the message of Islam would start illuminating these countries in the years to come. He fought defensive battles and led armies against the enemies of Islam. He, however, did so only after receiving Divine permission for that. Then he treated the captives of the anti-Islamic forces in such a way that he was able to rule over their hearts. He entered into truce with the rivals and accepted apparently hard terms only for the sake of his noble mission. The Muslim rulers of modern times need to learn from the diplomatic and strategic tactics of the Holy Prophet". They should follow his footsteps and sign similar agreements with rival and non- rival Muslim states in order to present the right image of Islam before the world. The correspondence policy of the Prophet #8" should similarly be followed by utilizing modern means of communication. The Rightly- Guided Caliphs also continued to show generosity towards the non-Muslim citizens and states. The second Caliph Umar (634-644 AD) set one of the noblest precedents in the entire world history. When he entered Jerusalem as a victor he refused to offer prayer (Salah) inside the church. He justified this gentle gesture by saying that he simply did not want to set a trend for his successors to forcibly convert the worship places of non- Muslims into mosques. This was absolutely in line with the glorious Quranic injunction: "Let there be no compulsion in religion" (2:256) Finally, the way the Caliph Umar showed his regard for the church in Jerusalem is another glaring example that can provide enlightenment to all the Muslim rulers of the contemporary world. They should also take special care of the temples and other worship places of non-Muslims living in their countries as a religious minority.
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