Biography of Ammar bin Yasir

Hadrat Yasir, father of Hadrat Ammar, belonged to Yemen. He had many brothers. One of them was once lost and nobody ever heard of him thereafter. Yasir, along with his two brothers, went to search of him. During this search he reached Mecca. The two brothers returned home from Mecca but Yasir did not go back and made Mecca his home town. He developed friendly relations with Abu Hudaifa, a dignitary of Mecca. He gave him in marriage one of his very talented and intelligent maid servants, Samiyyah. This lady gave birth to Hadrat Ammar (Allah be pleased with him).

Hadrat Ammar was one of those fortunate and dauntless companions of the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) who preceded others in embracing Islam Hadrat Ammar embraced Islam when the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) had taken refuge in the house of Hadrat Arqam bin Abi Arqam along with his thirty or thirty two followers owing to the unbearable tortures and persecution of the infidels of Mecca. It was under these circumstances that his father Yasir, his Mother Samiyyah, his brother Abdullah and the rest of his family accepted Islam.

Hadrat Ammar and his family had no family links with the people of Mecca. Neither had they any wealth or high position to win for them any support from the people of Mecca. Only Abu Hudaifa patronized them but he died before the dawn of Islam.

Finding them helpless, and having no voice or support in the city, the infields of Mecca subjected them to miserable torture as a reprisal against their embracing Islam. They were forced to lie down on the extremely hot sand right at noon. They made to walk over burning cinders. They kept them immersed in the water for hour’s together but could not succeed in wining over any one of those lovers of Islam.

Hadrat Samiyyah, mother of Hadrat Ammar. Although a woman, was a staunch and enthusiastic worker of the Islamic movement. Abu Jahl could not tolerate anybody’s enthusiasm for Islam. One day, in an fit a rage, he struck her below the navel with his spear with such a force that the poor lady died on the spot. His father, Yasir and his brother Abdullah were also torture to death by the infields.

The Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) often shed tears on the helplessness and the miserable condition of this family. Whenever he passed by them and found them holding firm to their faith under severe torture and harsh treatment, he would say:

“O family of ‘Ammar! I congratulate you. The eternal Gardens are waiting for you.”

Once the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) saw that the infields of Mecca had made Hadrat Ammar lie down on the burning cinders and he was quite helpless. Seeing this, the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) prayed for him:

“O fire! Cool down for Ammar as thou didst for Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him).”

When Ammar spoke of his helplessness and misery to the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him), he advised’ him to remain calm and prayed for him:

“O Allah! Forgive Yasir’s family.”

They endue untold hardships for a long time. At last Allah helped them out of their misfortune. The Muslims were ordered to migrate. Hadrat Ammar first went to Abyssinia and they migrated to Medina. Seeing his firm belief, faithfulness and truthfulness, the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) prayed for him to be safe from the Devil and acclaimed him as a test of good and evil. Whenever he saw Ammar, the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) said, “Faith and conviction run as blood into the veins of Ammar.” Many time he would say, “Alas Ammar! You will be killed by a group of rebels.”

On the basis of these sayings of the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him), people used to settle their mutual feuds in the light of the advice of Hadrat Ammar. During the Caliphate Hadrat Ali (Allah be pleased with him), when the Muslims began to quarrel among themselves and were divided in two groups, those who were neutral followed Ammar and supported Hadrat Ali (Allah be pleased with him). In this quarrel there were many fierce and lamentable skirmishes amongst the Muslims. In one of these skirmishes, two persons killed Hadrat Ammar and carried his head to their officer. In order to get reward each of them claimed to have killed Hadrat Ammar. Hadrat Abdullah bin ‘Amar bin al’As was also present there. When he saw them boasting and claiming to be the killer, he said, “Don’t try to take the responsibility of murdering Ammar because I have heard from the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) that the rebel group will kill Ammar. Abdullah’s father, Hadrat Amar bin al’As was also there. He remarked, “By Allah both of them are quarreling to go to Hell!”

Throughout his life, Hadrat Ammar always sought the pleasure of Allah. He fought with great valor and courage in all the battles against the infields. After the Holy Prophet (Allah be pleased with him) he also participated in all important battles fought during the reigns of the first four Caliph. There is famous event of the battle of Yemama, which apart from being interesting carries a great lesson for the Muslims.

In the battle of Yemama, Hadrat Ammar was making fierce onslaughts on the enemy. All of sudden one of his ears was chopped off and dropped on the ground but he remained busy in Jihad quite indifferent to the loss of his ear. In the mean time he felt that the Muslims were showing signs of weakness and were retreating. He climbed over a lofty rock and yelled out in a loud voice:

“O Muslims! You are running away from Paradise. Look at me. I am Ammar bin Yasir. Come with me. Follow me.”

On hearing this call, the morale of the Muslim army was strengthened and making a strong onslaught they won the battle. Afterward, when he was the Governor of Koofa, during the Caliphate of Hadrat Umar Farooq (Allah be pleased with him), a dignitary of Koofa dies him to agree to one of his proposals, but Hadrat Ammar refused. The man got infuriated and talked to him in a rude manner. “O man with broken ear! Hadrat Ammar though a Governor, controlled his anger and said, “Alas! You have abused my best and dearest ear.””

Apart from being true and faithful to Islam, Hadrat Ammar was also one of the most intelligent companions (Allah be pleased with them). He held many important posts under the Islamic Government. When he was appointed as Governor of an important place like Koofa he performed his duties with great ability. But he was not usually happy with such appointments. He liked simplicity, showing hospitality to the guests and selflessness. Once Hadrat Ali (Allah be pleased with him) took him along to inspect a canal. This inspection took quite a long time. Hadrat Ammar was ti and began to doze off. He lay down under a tree on the bare ground and fell asleep.

Hadrat Ammar loved to offer prayers. He said his prayers with great devotion and concentration. Often he spent the whole night in offering prayers, reciting the Holy Qur’an and sac verses. Hadrat Abdullah bin Abbas (Allah be pleased with him) recited a verse with reference to Hadrat Ammar:

“Is the person who stands in his prayers and keels down on the ground through the night fearful of the hereafter and hopeful of Allah’s kindness,”

Hadrat Ammar attained the age of 91 years, but he never looked old. Till the end he tried to surpass others in the cause of Islam. He often prayed to Allah:

“O Allah1` If I knew I would please Thee by jumping down from the mountain, burning myself in the fire or by drowning in the water, I would obtain Thy pleasure at all costs. I go into the Holy war only to secure Thy pleasure. I hope Thou will give me success! “

Allah, no doubt, gave him success. He was martyr in the cause of Islam and Allah was pleased with him and he who pleases Allah is successful.

Source : "Devoted companions" by Mail Khairabadi

Abdullah bin Hathafah's courage

A story which shows the steadfastness of the Sahabah

In 19th hijrah ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه sent an army of Mujahedeen to war. 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was also a soldier in the army. The roman emperor was receiving regular news bulletins regarding the advance of this army. He knew that the Muslims were resolute and truthful people who would sacrifice their lives for Allah. He had told his armies that if they captured any Muslim alive they should bring the captive to his court. It was the will of Allah that 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was taken prisoner. They took him to the court of Caesar and told him:

"We have brought a prisoner who is a Companion of the Prophet(Peace be upon him) and who was one of the first to accept Islam."

When ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was brought before the Emperor of Rome, he gave him a penetrating look and said: “I have a plan.”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه asked him: “What is your plan?”

He replied: “ I invite you to convert to Christianity. If you do so, I will free you and treat you with all due respect.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered boldly and resolutely: “This is absolutely impossible. I think it is a thousand times better to die than to accept your invitation.”

The Emperor said: “I think you are a brave man. If you accept my invitation, I am even ready to share the rule over my kingdom with you.”

The shackled prisoner smiled and answered: “By Allah! You need have no hopes that I will turn against Islam for a moment, even if you give me your kingdom plus the whole peninsula of Arabia!”

The Emperor was enraged and shouted that he would kill him. ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered calmly: “You can do whatever you please."

The Roman Emperor ordered that he be put to death. He instructed that his feet should be fettered and he should be chained. Arrows were to be shot at him so as to pierce his palms. After this was done, Caesar again invited him-for a third time-to accept Christianity. Again ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused to accept Christianity. Finally, Caesar ordered that a huge cauldron be placed on a fire and ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه be brought down from the stake. When the oil started to boil, he ordered that two of the Muslim prisoners be brought. When they were presented before him, he ordered that one of them should be thrown into the boiling oil. The moment he was thrown in his flesh began to separate from his bones.

Again he turned his attention towards ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and asked him: “Even now you have a chance to accept Christianity.”

But he refused him more forcefully than before. Caesar had no other choice now but to order that he too be thrown into the boiling cauldron. When he was brought near the oil, his eyes filled with tears and brimmed over. When Caesar’s men saw this, they told him that the prisoner was crying. Caesar thought that it must be due to sheer panic. Caesar said: “Bring him to me.”

When he was brought to Caesar, he again invited him to Christianity. But, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused again!

Surprised, Caesar asked, “Then why did you cry?”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه replied: “When I saw the scene I felt sorry that I had only one life. I wished that I had a thousand lives to sacrifice in your boiling cauldron for Allah (swt).”

Caesar was stunned momentarily into silence when he heard this. Finally he said:“All right I will release you if you kiss my forehead.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه asked him: “Will you release the other Muslim prisoners as well?”

He says in his report of the incident that he was thinking to himself, it would not be too big a price to pay for the release of so many captured Muslims. Then approaching Caesar he kissed him on his forehead. Keeping to his promise, Caesar ordered that the prisoners be given into the custody of ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه. As soon as he got his freedom, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه went to ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه and narrated to him all that had happened.

‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه was very happy and said: “Every Muslim owes a duty to ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and it is compulsory that each of us should kiss his forehead. I will kiss him first.”

Then he took the lead and kissed ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه on his forehead.

Source: Commanders of the Muslim army by Mahmood Ahmad Ghadanfar

Conversation between Ribi bin Amir and the Persian army commander

Before the battle of Qadissiyyah the commander of the Persian army, Rustam sent words to the Muslim Commander sa’d bin abu Waggas to depute one of his trusted men for negotiations.

Sa’d sent rib’i bin Amir. Rustam adorned his court with unwanted splendor and pomp to prepare for the audience with the Muslim ambassador. The entire court was carpeted with cloth of gold, the pillows were of rich silk, while gem bedecked throne was placed in the center.

Rib’i came right up to the richly carpeted floor and dismounting from his horse, attached the reins to a pillow. He then moved on supported by a spear piercing in to the carpet and cutting it and making holes in it with its point and sat beside Rustam. The courtiers made an attempt to pull him down from the throne and disarm him. Thereupon Rib’i thundered. “I have come on invitation and not of my own. Our religion strictly forbids anybody sitting like God and the rest standing before him with their hands folded. Now Rustam intervened and asked them not to do anything against the will of envoy.

However, on second thought rib’i dismounted from the throne, slit a portion of the carpet with his dagger and sat on the earth and said addressing Rustam, “We are not at all need of your carpet. The earth spread by Allah the Almighty is enough for us. Rustam then asked Rib’i through the interpreter, “What is your object in waging war against us.” Rib’i replied, “We intend to bring the slaves of Allah the Almighty to the expanse of the next world from the narrowness of this world and promote justice and Islam in place of atrocities and false religion. Any one who adopts justice and Islam will find us non –interfering in regard to his wealth, property and country. But we shall fight with whoever stands in our way until we go either to paradise or attain victory. If you seek to pay jizyah we shall accept it and will cease to go against you and you will find us standing by you if and when you need us for the safety of your life and property. "

Having heard this Rustam asked,”are you the chief of the Muslims. Rib’i replied “No, I am an ordinary soldier. But each one of us even the most ordinary can speak on behalf of the most powerful person and every person have full power in every matter".

The utterance of Rib’i left Rustam and courtiers dumb founded. Rustam then said,” the scabbard of your sword is quite rotten.” Ribi drew his sword out of the sheath and said “it has been tempered very recently”. Rustam again said, “The blade of your spear is very small. How can it be any use in battles? “ Rib’i replied “ this blade pierces deep in to the chest of the enemy and goes across it. Have you not seen that a spark is enough to burn down an entire city? “Well I shall ponder over your utterance and hold consultation with my men of sound judgment”. Rib’i got up and rode to Sa’d bin abu Waggas.

Source: History of Islam (part 1) by Akbar Shah Najeebabadi

The story of Ummu Ibrahim

(This story was mentioned by scholars like Abu Jaafar al Luban. He narrates) :

It is mentioned that one of the righteous women in Basra was Umm Ibrahim al Hashimeeyah. The enemy attacked one of the Muslim towns so people were encouraged to join jihad. AbdulWahid bin Zayd al Basri delivered a speech encouraging jihad and among the audience was Umm Ibrahim. Among the things AbdulWahid talked about was al Hoor (the women of Paradise). Umm Ibrahim stood up and said to AbdulWahid: “You know my son Ibrahim and you know that the nobility of al Basra wish to have him marry one of their daughters and I have not agreed to one of them yet. But I like this girl you described and I would be happy to marry her to my son. Can you please describe her again?"

AbdulWahid then narrated a poem in the description of the Hoor. Umm Ibrahim said: I want my son to marry this girl and I would pay you 10,000 dinars as her dowry and you take him with you in this army. He might die as a Shaheed and intercede for me on the Day of Judgment. AbdulWahid said: “If you do so, that is great success for you and your son.” She then called her son from the audience. He stood up and said: “Yes my mother!” She said: “Are you pleased to marry this girl with the condition of giving your soul to Allah?” He said: “Yes! I am very pleased!” She said: “O Allah you are my witness that I have married my son to this girl from Paradise with the condition he spends his soul in your sake” Then she went and brought back with her 10,000 dinars and gave it to AbdulWahid and said: “This is her dowry. Take it and use it to provide for the mujahideen” She then purchased for her son a good horse and she armed him. When the army started its march Ibrahim came out with the reciters of Quran surrounding him and reciting:

“Indeed, Allah has purchased from the believers their lives and their properties [in exchange] for that they will have Paradise.”

When Umm Ibrahim was greeting her son she told him: “Be careful and don’t allow any shortcomings from yourself to be seen by Allah” She them embraced him and kissed him and said: “May Allah never bring us together except on the Day of Judgment!”

AbdulWahid said: “When we reached the enemy’s territory and people were called to fight. Ibrahim was in the front and he killed many of the enemy but then they overwhelmed him and killed him. On our way back I told my soldiers not to tell Umm Ibrahim that her son was killed until I tell her. When we entered al Basra she met me and said: “Did Allah accept my gift so I can celebrate or was it rejected so I should cry?” I said: “Allah did accept your gift and your son died as a Shaheed” She then prostrated to thank Allah and said: “Thank you Allah for accepting my gift”

The following day she came to me in the mosque and said: “Rejoice!” I said: “What good news do you have?” She said: “I saw my son Ibrahim last night in a dream. He was in a beautiful garden dressed in green clothes, sitting on a throne made of pearl and he had a crown on his head. He told me: “Rejoice my mother! I got married to my bride!”

Source: MASHARI AL-ASHWAQ ILA MASARI AL-USHAAQ WA MUTHEER AL-GHARAAM ILA DAAR ASSALAAM

The supplication of 'Abdullah bin Jahash

Sa'd bin Abu Waqas (Radiyallahu anhu) relates a memorable incident from the life of 'Abdullah bin Jahash (Radiyallahu anhu).

"When the battle of Uhud was about to take place, 'Abdullah bin Jahash took me aside and asked me if I would not like to offer supplications to Allah. I answered that of course I would like to do so and prayed thus:

"O Allah Lord of the worlds! When I enter the battlefield let me come face to face with an enemy who is great and furious warrior. Let me engage with him a hand to hand fight and give me control over him until I finally overpower him completely. Then I should kill him and take away all his belongings."

Abdullah bin Jahash said " Ameen" after I completed my prayer.

Then Abdullah bin Jahash offered supplications to Allah:

"O Allah! Please give me the ability to fight against an enemy who is a furious, brave and experienced warrior. I should fight only to gain your pleasure and blessings. Then he should succeed in overpowering me and cut off my nose and ears. When I come into Your presence on the day of Judgement You should ask me: 'Abdullah why were your ears and nose cut off? Then I should answer you thus, 'For your sake O Lord'

The supplication of 'Abdullah bin Jahash was much better than mine, and Allah accepted it. In the evening I saw  that he had been killed and the enemy had strung his ears and nose on a string. He achieved the honorable status of a martyr like his maternal uncle, Hamzah.""

Source: Commanders of the Muslim Army

Some beautiful advice given to Imam Ahmad by righteous people

By: Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

When the Muslim is faced with trials and his Lord tests him in order to purify him, one of the means which Allah gives him to help him stand firm is a righteous man who will advise and help him. Through this man’s words Allah helps the believer to stand firm and directs his steps. These words remind him of Allah, the Meeting with Him, His Paradise and His Hell. There follow some examples from the life of Imaam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him), who entered the test and emerged as pure gold.

He was taken to al Ma’moon in chains, and (al-Ma’moon) had already issued him such a stern warning before he reached him that a servant said to Imaam Ahmad, “It hurts me, O Abu ‘Abd-Allaah, that al-Ma’moon has unsheathed a sword which he has never unsheathed before, and he swears by his relationship to the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) that if you do not accept what he says about the Qur’aan being created, he will certainly kill you with that sword.” (Al- Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, 1/332)

At this point, the intelligent scholars took the opportunity to say to their imaam words that would help him to remain steadfast. In al-Siyar (11/238), al-Dhahabi reports from Abu Ja’far al-Anbaari: “When Ahmad was taken to al-Ma’moon, I was told about it, so I crossed the Euphrates and found him sitting in an inn, where I greeted him. He said, ‘O Abu Ja’far, why did you go to the trouble (of coming here)?’ I said, ‘Listen to me, today you are the leader and the people are following you. By Allah, if you accept that the Qur’aan is created, a lot of people will go along with that, but if you do not, then neither will they. Even if this man (al-Ma’moon) does not kill you, you will still die, because death is inevitable, so fear Allah, and do not go along with (al- Ma’moon).’ Ahmad began to weep and said, ‘Ma sha Allah.’ Then he said, ‘O Abu Ja’far, say it again,’ so I said it again, and he kept saying, ‘Ma sha Allah.’…”

With regard to his being taken to al-Ma’moon, Imaam Ahmad said: “We reached al- Rahbah at midnight, and a man came to us and said, ‘Which of you is Ahmad ibn Hanbal?’ He was told, ‘This man.’ He said to the camel-driver, ‘Slow down.’ … Then he said, ‘Listen to me, why should you worry if you get killed here and go to Paradise?’ Then he said, ‘May Allah be with you,’ and left. I asked about him and I was told, ‘He is an Arab from the tribe of Rabee’ah who deals with wool in the desert. He is called Jaabir ibn ‘Aamir, and they say good things about him.’” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/241).

In al-Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, it says that a Bedouin said to Imaam Ahmad: “Listen to me, you are a representative of the people, so do not be bad news for them. You are the leader of the people today, so beware of doing what they are asking you to do, lest you bear their sins on the Day of Resurrection. If you love Allah, then bear this with patience, for the only thing standing between you and Paradise is your being killed.” Imaam Ahmad said: “His words strengthened my resolve not to do what they were asking me to do.” (Al-Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, 1/332).

It was reported that Imaam Ahmad said: “I never heard any stronger words at that time than what a Bedouin said to me at Rahbat Tawq, a village between al-Raqqah and Baghdaad on the banks of the Euphrates. He said, ‘O Ahmad, if they kill you for the truth, you will be a shaheed (martyr), and if you live, you will be praised.’ And so my heart grew strong.” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/241).

Imaam Ahmad said of the young man Muhammad ibn Nooh, who accompanied him at that time of trial: “Even though he was so young, he had such great knowledge, and I never saw anyone who adhered more firmly to the command of Allah than Muhammad ibn Nooh, and I hope that his end was good. He said to me one day, ‘O Abu ‘Abd-Allaah, you are not like me. You are a man whom people follow, and they are straining their necks to see what you will do, so fear Allah and adhere to His commands.’ Then he died, and I prayed the janaazah (funeral) prayer for him and buried him.” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/242)

Even his fellow-prisoners, whom Imaam Ahmad used to lead in prayer in chains, had a role to play in helping him to stand firm. One day when he was in prison, Imaam Ahmad said, “I don’t care about being in prison – it is no different from my home – or about being killed by the sword, but I am afraid of the trial of being whipped.” One of the other prisoners heard him and said, “Don’t worry, O Abu ‘Abd-Allah, it is only two lashes of the whip, then you don’t feel where the rest fall.” It was as if this reassured him and calmed him down. (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/240)

So try to seek advice from righteous people, and try to understand it if it is given to you.

Source: Wasaa’il al-Thabaat- (English translation: Means of Steadfastness: Standing Firm in Islam)

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The story of a great muslim woman, Umm Sulaym

Um Sulaym used to travel with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), leaving Madeenah when he left, and returning when he returned. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “When she gives birth, bring the child to me.” He was on a journey, and Um Sulaym was with him. When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came back from travelling, he would never enter Madeenah at night (so as not to disturb the people, and so that wives would have time to get ready to greet their husbands). They reached the outskirts of Madeenah, and her labour pains started. Abu Talhah stayed with her, and the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) went on. Abu Talhah said, “O Allaah, you know that I like to set out with your Messenger when he sets out, and come back with him when he comes back. I have been detained as You see.” Um Sulaym said, “O Abu Talhah, I do not feel the pains as much (this was one of her “miracles”; her labour pains ceased because she had asked Allaah to enable her to catch up with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)).

So they set off, and after they had reached Madeenah, her labour pains started again, and she gave birth to a boy. She told her son Anas, “O Anas, I will not give him anything to eat until you take him in the morning to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him),” and she sent some dates with him. (Because she wanted the first thing to enter the child’s mouth to be food from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him); this was a sign of her great faith, because the woman’s natural instinct is to hasten to feed the baby as soon as he is born). The child cried all night long, and I [Anas, the narrator of this story] stayed up all night taking care of him.

In the morning, I took him to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), who was wearing his burdah (a kind of cloak) and marking the camels and sheep that had been given to him (the animals had been given in charity and he was marking them so that they would not get lost or mixed with other flocks or herds). When he saw him, he said to Anas, “Has the daughter of Milhaan [i.e., Um Sulaym] given birth?” He said, “Yes.” He said, “I will be with you in a minute.” He put down the tool in his hand (with which he had been marking the animals) and took the child, then he said, “Do you have something for him?” They said, “Yes, dates.” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) took some of the dates and chewed them, mixing them with his saliva (and the saliva of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was blessed by Allaah). Then he opened the child’s mouth and gave him some of the dates, wiping them inside his mouth (this is called Tahneek and is one of the customs among Muslims when a baby is born). The infant began to smack his lips, sucking some of the sweetness of the dates and the saliva of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Thus the first thing that entered that child’s stomach was mixed with the saliva of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). He said, “See how much the Ansaar (the Muslims who were living in Madeenah when the Prophet migrated there) love dates!”

I [Anas] said, “O Messenger of Allaah, name him.” He wiped his face and named him ‘Abd-Allaah. There was no young man among the Ansaar who was better than him, and when he grew up he had a lot of sons, and was martyred in Persia (he died as a martyr when the Muslims conquered Persia; all of this happened as a result of the Prophet’s blessed du’aa’).

(The story was reported by Imaam al-Bukhaari, Muslim, Ahmad and al-Tayaalisi; this version was reported by al-Tayaalisi and others. Al-‘Allaamah al-Albaani collected all its isnaads in his book Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz, p. 20).

Source: Islam q n a / Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

Abdullah bin Hathafah's courage

A story which shows the steadfastness of the Sahabah

In 19th hijrah ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه sent an army of Mujahedeen to war. 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was also a soldier in the army. The roman emperor was receiving regular news bulletins regarding the advance of this army. He knew that the Muslims were resolute and truthful people who would sacrifice their lives for Allah. He had told his armies that if they captured any Muslim alive they should bring the captive to his court. It was the will of Allah that 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was taken prisoner. They took him to the court of Caesar and told him:

"We have brought a prisoner who is a Companion of the Prophet(Peace be upon him) and who was one of the first to accept Islam."

When ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was brought before the Emperor of Rome, he gave him a penetrating look and said: “I have a plan.”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه asked him: “What is your plan?”

He replied: “ I invite you to convert to Christianity. If you do so, I will free you and treat you with all due respect.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered boldly and resolutely: “This is absolutely impossible. I think it is a thousand times better to die than to accept your invitation.”

The Emperor said: “I think you are a brave man. If you accept my invitation, I am even ready to share the rule over my kingdom with you.”

The shackled prisoner smiled and answered: “By Allah! You need have no hopes that I will turn against Islam for a moment, even if you give me your kingdom plus the whole peninsula of Arabia!”

The Emperor was enraged and shouted that he would kill him. ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered calmly: “You can do whatever you please."

The Roman Emperor ordered that he be put to death. He instructed that his feet should be fettered and he should be chained. Arrows were to be shot at him so as to pierce his palms. After this was done, Caesar again invited him-for a third time-to accept Christianity. Again ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused to accept Christianity. Finally, Caesar ordered that a huge cauldron be placed on a fire and ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه be brought down from the stake. When the oil started to boil, he ordered that two of the Muslim prisoners be brought. When they were presented before him, he ordered that one of them should be thrown into the boiling oil. The moment he was thrown in his flesh began to separate from his bones.

Again he turned his attention towards ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and asked him: “Even now you have a chance to accept Christianity.”

But he refused him more forcefully than before. Caesar had no other choice now but to order that he too be thrown into the boiling cauldron. When he was brought near the oil, his eyes filled with tears and brimmed over. When Caesar’s men saw this, they told him that the prisoner was crying. Caesar thought that it must be due to sheer panic. Caesar said: “Bring him to me.”

When he was brought to Caesar, he again invited him to Christianity. But, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused again!

Surprised, Caesar asked, “Then why did you cry?”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه replied: “When I saw the scene I felt sorry that I had only one life. I wished that I had a thousand lives to sacrifice in your boiling cauldron for Allah (swt).”

Caesar was stunned momentarily into silence when he heard this. Finally he said:“All right I will release you if you kiss my forehead.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه asked him: “Will you release the other Muslim prisoners as well?”

He says in his report of the incident that he was thinking to himself, it would not be too big a price to pay for the release of so many captured Muslims. Then approaching Caesar he kissed him on his forehead. Keeping to his promise, Caesar ordered that the prisoners be given into the custody of ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه. As soon as he got his freedom, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه went to ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه and narrated to him all that had happened.

‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه was very happy and said: “Every Muslim owes a duty to ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and it is compulsory that each of us should kiss his forehead. I will kiss him first.”

Then he took the lead and kissed ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه on his forehead.

Source: Commanders of the Muslim army by Mahmood Ahmad Ghadanfar

Conversation between Ribi bin Amir and the Persian army commander

Before the battle of Qadissiyyah the commander of the Persian army, Rustam sent words to the Muslim Commander sa’d bin abu Waggas to depute one of his trusted men for negotiations.

Sa’d sent rib’i bin Amir. Rustam adorned his court with unwanted splendor and pomp to prepare for the audience with the Muslim ambassador. The entire court was carpeted with cloth of gold, the pillows were of rich silk, while gem bedecked throne was placed in the center.

Rib’i came right up to the richly carpeted floor and dismounting from his horse, attached the reins to a pillow. He then moved on supported by a spear piercing in to the carpet and cutting it and making holes in it with its point and sat beside Rustam. The courtiers made an attempt to pull him down from the throne and disarm him. Thereupon Rib’i thundered. “I have come on invitation and not of my own. Our religion strictly forbids anybody sitting like God and the rest standing before him with their hands folded. Now Rustam intervened and asked them not to do anything against the will of envoy.

However, on second thought rib’i dismounted from the throne, slit a portion of the carpet with his dagger and sat on the earth and said addressing Rustam, “We are not at all need of your carpet. The earth spread by Allah the Almighty is enough for us. Rustam then asked Rib’i through the interpreter, “What is your object in waging war against us.” Rib’i replied, “We intend to bring the slaves of Allah the Almighty to the expanse of the next world from the narrowness of this world and promote justice and Islam in place of atrocities and false religion. Any one who adopts justice and Islam will find us non –interfering in regard to his wealth, property and country. But we shall fight with whoever stands in our way until we go either to paradise or attain victory. If you seek to pay jizyah we shall accept it and will cease to go against you and you will find us standing by you if and when you need us for the safety of your life and property. "

Having heard this Rustam asked,”are you the chief of the Muslims. Rib’i replied “No, I am an ordinary soldier. But each one of us even the most ordinary can speak on behalf of the most powerful person and every person have full power in every matter".

The utterance of Rib’i left Rustam and courtiers dumb founded. Rustam then said,” the scabbard of your sword is quite rotten.” Ribi drew his sword out of the sheath and said “it has been tempered very recently”. Rustam again said, “The blade of your spear is very small. How can it be any use in battles? “ Rib’i replied “ this blade pierces deep in to the chest of the enemy and goes across it. Have you not seen that a spark is enough to burn down an entire city? “Well I shall ponder over your utterance and hold consultation with my men of sound judgment”. Rib’i got up and rode to Sa’d bin abu Waggas.

Source: History of Islam (part 1) by Akbar Shah Najeebabadi

A camel prostrating to the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him)

It is reported on the authority of Anas RadhiyAllah anhu that he said:

There was a family from among the Ansar who had a camel upon which they used to water their crops and the camel became difficult for them to handle and would not allow anything on its back. The Ansar went to the Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him) and said:

"We have a camel which we used for watering our crops and now it has become difficult for us to handle and refuses to let us put anything on its back,and now the crops and the date-palms have become dry."

The Messenger of Allah (May peace be upon him) said to his companions: "Get up"

So they stood up and he (May peace be upon him) entered the orchard and found the camel in a corner. The Prophet (Peace be upon him)walked toward it and the Ansar said: "Oh ,Prophet of Allah!(Peace be upon him) It has become like a wild dog and we fear that it will harm you."

He(Peace be upon him) said: "It will not harm me."

When the camel looked towards the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him),it approached him and fell down in prostration before him. The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) took hold of its forelock and led it along ,more subdued than it had ever been and put it to work.

His Companions said: "Oh! Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him)! This animal which is without reason or understanding has prostrated to you, while we are rational beings, so we have more right to prostate to you."

He (Peace be upon him) said: "It does not befit any human being that he should prostrate to another human being. If it were right for human being to prostrate to another human being , I would have commanded the wife to prostrate to her husband, due to his great right upon her. By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, if from his feet to the parting of his hair was a boil flowing with pus and she were to face him and lick it up,she would not have fulfilled his right upon her."

Source: "Miracles of the Messenger" (Peace be upon him)prepared by Darussalam Research devision

09 May 2011

How some of the pious feared Allah

Abu Bakr Siddiq RadiyAllah Anhu said, “ I wish I were no more than a hair on the side of a believing servant”. Whenever he got up to do the prayer he would be trembling like a leaf out of fear of Allah.

Umar bin Khattab RadiyAllah anhu was once reading Surat-Tur and when he came to the verse
Surely the doom of your Lord will surely come to pass (52: 7)
And he wept so intensely that he fell ill so that people came to see how he was.

When Umar radiyAllah anhu was on his death bed he told his son, “Put my cheek next to the earth so that Allah may forgive me.” Then he said, “ I am doomed if Allah does not forgive me” he repeated the same words three times and then he died.

When Umar used to read the Quran at night and read an Ayah that filled him with fear, he would stay indoors for days on end so that people come to visit him, thinking that he was ill. His frequent weeping etched two dark lines on his face.

Ibn Abbas once told Umar ,”Allah has brought many countries into the Muslim Ummah through you, And through you many victories has been won. Umar replied, “All I desire is to be saved, I desire neither reward nor punishment”.

Uthman bin Affan RadiyAllah anhu used to cry until his beard was soaked each time that he stood at a grave. He used to say , “ If I were standing between the garden and the Fire, not knowing in which one of the two I would end up I would rather be turned into ashes before I learned my fate.”

Abu Darda RadiyAllhu anhu used to say “If you knew what you will encounter after your death you would never eat with any appetite, nor drink thirstily, nor enter houses to shelter but you would go to open spaces and beat your breast and weep at your lot. I wish I were a tree to be cut up and destroyed.

Ibn Abbas RadiyAllah anhu had skin under his eyes which looked like worn out sandal leather , due to his frequent weeping.

Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah honor him, was once overwhelmed with sadness after completing the dawn prayer; He said, " Never did i see anything like the companions of the Messenger of Allah. Their hair was disheveled. Their faces were pale, they were covered in dust, and the space between their eyes looked like the knees of goats. They had spent their night in prayer and in recitation of the Quran either on their feet or in prostration. When the dawn came they would spend it in remembrance of Allah,swaying like a tree on a stormy day, with tears flowing from their eyes till their clothes soaked. By Allah it seem to me the people around me now have passed the night in fast asleep." Then he got up and was never seen laughing until he was stabbed to death by Ibn Muljim.

Musa ibn Mas'ud said: "Whenever we sat in the company of Sufyaan at Tawri, we would feel as if the Fire had surrounded us because of the fear and panic we could see in his eyes."

Al Hasan al Basri was once described as follows "Whenever he aproached us it would seem as if he has only just returned from the burial of his best friend, and when he sat in a company , it was as if he was a prisoner sentenced to death by having his head cut off. And when ever the Fire was mentioned it would be as it had been created especially for him".

It has been related that Zurarah ibn Abu awfa led some people in dawn prayer and recited surah Al-Mudhathir from the Quran. When he reached the words
For when the trumpet sound that will be that day-a Day of distress (74:8-9)
He gasped and fell dead.

Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al- As is reported to have said, “Weep , and if you cannot weep then pretend to weep, I swear by Him in Whose Hand my life is, that if any of you really knew you would plead until your voice went, and pray until your back is broken".


Source : The purification of the soul by Ahmed Farid

A complaint about Sa'id ibn Aamir

In the caliphate of Umar bin al-Khattab he made Sa'id ibn Aamir Al-Jumahi the governor of Syria. Umar ibn al-Khattab once went to Syria to examine conditions there. When he arrived at Homs which was called little Kufah because, like Kufah, its inhabitants complained a lot about their leaders, he asked what they thought of their flair. They complained about him mentioning four of his actions each one more serious than the other.

"I shall bring you and him together," Umar promised. "And I pray to God that my opinion about him would not be damaged. I used to have great confidence in him."

When the meeting was convened, Umar asked what complaints they had against him. "He only comes out to us when the sun is already high," they said. "What do you have to say to that, Sa'id?" asked Umar. Sa'id was silent for a moment, and then said, "By God, I really didn't want to say this but there seems to be no way out. My family does not have a home help so I get up every morning and prepare dough for bread. I wait a little until it rises and then bake for them. I then make wads and go out to the people."

"What's your other complaint?" asked Umar. "He does not answer anyone at night," they said. To this Sa'id reluctantly said, "By God, I really wouldn't have liked to disclose this also, but I have left the day for them and the night for God, Great and Sublime is He."

"And what's your other complaint about him?" asked Umar. "He does not come out to us for one day in every month," they said. To this Sa'id replied, " O Amir al-Mu'mineen and I do not have any clothes except what's on me. This I wash once a month and I wait for it to dry. Then I go out in the later part of the day."

"Any other complaint about him?" asked Umar. "From time to time, he blacks out in meetings," they said. To this Sa'id replied, "I witnessed the killing of Khubayb ibn Adiy when I was a disbeliever. I saw the Quraysh cutting him and saying, "Would you like Muhammad (Peace be upon him) to be in your place?" to which Khubayb replied, "I would not wish to be safe and secure among my family while a thorn hurts Muhammad (Peace be upon him) to." By God, whenever I remember that day and how I failed to come to his aid, I only think that God would not forgive me and I black out."

Thereupon Umar said, "Praise be to God. My impression of him has not been tainted.

Source: Companions of The Prophet (Peace be upon him) Vol.1, By Abdul Wahid Hamid

25 May 2011

To the Hell and Paradise because of a fly

Ahmad reports that Tariq bin Shihab narrated that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:

"A man entered Paradise because of a fly, and a man entered Hell-fire because of a fly."

They (the Companions) asked, "How was that possible O Messenger of Allah?" (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him).

He said,

"Two men passed by the people who had an idol by which they would not allow anyone to pass without making sacrifice to it. They ordered one man to make a sacrifice. He said, 'I have nothing to present as an offering.' The people told him, 'Sacrifice something, even if it be a fly.' So he presented a fly (to their idol). They opened the way for him, and thus he entered the Hell-fire. They said to the other man, 'Sacrifice something.' He said, 'I will never sacrifice anything to any other than Allah, Most Majestic and Glorious.' So they struck his throat and killed him; and he, therefore, entered Paradise." (Ahmad)

How Shuhaib ar-Rumi came to Islam

About twenty years before the start of the Prophet's (Peace be upon him) mission, that is about the middle of the sixth century CE, an Arab named Sinan ibn Malik governed the city of al-Uballah on behalf of the Persian emperor. The city, which is now part of Basrah, lay on t he banks of the Euphrates River. Sinan lived in a luxurious palace on the banks of the river. He had several children and was particularly fond of one of them who were then barely five years old. His name was Suhayb. He was blond and fair-complexioned. H e was active and alert and gave much pleasure to his father.

One day Suhayb's mother took him and some members of her household to a village called ath-Thani for a picnic. What was to be a relaxing and enjoyable day turned out to be a terrifying experience that was to change the course of young Suhayb's life forever. That day the village of ath-Thani was attacked, by a raiding party of Byzantine soldiers. The guards accompanying the picnic party were overwhelmed and killed. All possessions were seized and a large number of persons were taken prisoner. Among these was Suhayb ibn Sinan.

Suhayb was taken to one of the slave markets of the Byzantine Empire, the capital of which was
Constantinople, there to be sold. Thereafter he passed from the hands of one slave master to another. His fate was no different from thousands of other slaves w ho filled the houses, the palaces and castles of Byzantine rulers and aristocrats.

Suhayb spent his boyhood and his youth as a slave. For about twenty years he stayed in Byzantine lands. This gave him the opportunity to get a rare knowledge and understanding of Byzantine/ ire and society. In the palaces of the aristocracy, he saw with his own eyes the injustices and the corruption of Byzantine life. He detested that society and later would say to himself:

"A society like this can only be purified by a deluge."

Suhayb of course grew up speaking Greek, the language of the Byzantine Empire. He practically forgot Arabic. But he never forgot that he was a son of the desert. He longed for the day when he would be free again to join his people's folk. At the first opportunity Suhayb escaped from bondage and headed straight for Makkah which was a place of refuge or asylum. There people called him Suhayb "ar-Rumi" or "the Byzantine" because of his peculiarly heavy speech and his blond hair. He became the halif of one of the aristocrats of Makkah, Abdullah ibn Judan. He engaged in trade and prospered. In fact, he became quite rich.

One day he returned to Makkah from one of his trading journeys. He was told that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) the son of Abdullah had begun calling people to believe in God alone, commanding them to be just and to do good works and prohibiting them from shameful and reprehensible deeds. He immediately enquired who Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was and where he stayed. He was told.

"(He stays) in the house or' al-Arqam ibn Abi al-Arqam. Be careful however that no Quraysh sees you. If they see you they would do (the most terrible things to you). You are a stranger here and there is no bond of asabiyyahi to protect you, neither have you any clan to help you."

Suhayb went cautiously to the house of al-Arqam. At the door he found Ammar ibn Yasir the young son of a Yemeni father who was known to him. He hesitated for a moment then went up to Ammar and said:

"What do you want (here), Ammar?"
"Rather, what do you want here'?" countered Ammar.
"I want to go to this man and hear directly from him what he is saying."
"I also want to do that." "Then let us enter together, ala barakatillah (with the blessings of God)."

Suhayb and Ammar entered and listened to what Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was saying. They were both readily convinced of the truth of his message. The light of faith entered their hearts. At this meeting, they pledged fealty to the Prophet (Peace be upon him) declaring that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.

They spent the entire day in the company of the noble Prophet(Peace be upon him). At night, under cover of darkness, they left the house of al-Arqam, their hearts aglow with the light of faith and their faces beaming with happiness.

From Alim® Online

Some examples of genorous women

In his biography of `A'ishah given in Siyar a`lam al-nubala', al-Dhahabi states that she gave seventy thousand dirhams in charity, at the time when she was putting patches on her shield.

Mu`awiyah sent `A'ishah a hundred thousand dirhams, and she gave it all away in charity before evening fell. Her servant said to her, "Why did you not buy a dirham's worth of meat with it?" She said, "Why did you not tell me to do so?"

Mu`awiyah also sent`A'ishah bracelets worth a hundred thousand, which she shared out among the other wives of the Prophet (Peace be upon him).

Ibn al-Zubayr sent her money in two containers, to the amount of a hundred thousand. She called for a large tray, and began to share the money among the people. When evening came, she said, "O young girl, bring me my fatur (food with which to break fast)," for she, (May Allah be pleased with her), used to fast all the time. The young girl said to her, "O Mother of the Believers, could you not have bought us a dirham's worth of meat?" She said, "Do not rebuke me; if you had reminded me I would have done so."

`A'ishah's sister Asma' was no less generous. `Abdullah ibn al-Zubayr (RAA) said: "I never saw two women more generous than `A'ishah and Asma', but their ways of being generous were different. `A'ishah would accumulate things and then share them out, whilst Asma' would never keep anything until the next day."

The Prophet's (Peace be upon him) wife Zaynab bint Jahsh used to work with her own hands and give in charity from her earnings. She was the most generous of the Prophet's(Peace be upon him) wives in giving freely and doing good deeds. According to a hadith narrated by Imam Muslim from `A'ishah (May Allah be pleased with her), the Prophet (Peace be upon him) told his wives about Zaynab: "The first of you to join me (after death) will be the one who has the longest hand." `A'ishah said: "They began to measure their hands against one another to see who had the longest hand, and the one who had the longest hands of all of us was Zaynab, because she used to work with her hands and give charity from her earnings."

`Umar ibn al-Khattab (RAA) sent Zaynab her annual salary, and when it was brought to her, she said: "May Allah forgive `Umar! Others of my sisters are more capable of sharing this out than I am." They told her, "This is all for you." She said, "Subhan Allah! Pour it out and cover it with a cloth." Then she told Barzah bint Rafi`, the narrator of this report: "Put your hand in and take a handful of it, and take it to Bani So-and-so and Bani So-and-so" - who were orphans or related to
her. This was repeated until there was only a little left under the cloth. Barzah bint Rafi` said to
Zaynab: "May Allah forgive you, O Mother of the Believers! By Allah (SWT), it is our right to have some." Zaynab said: "What is left under the cloth is for you." (Barzah bint Rafi`) said that they found eighty-five dirhams under the cloth.

Zaynab said, "O Allah, do not let me live to receive another payment like this from `Umar," and she died before the time for the next payment came.

Ibn Sa`d reported that when the money was brought to Zaynab, she started saying, "O Allah, do not let me see this money again next year, for it is a fitnah (temptation)." Then she shared it out among her relatives and those who were in need, until it was all gone. `Umar (RAA) heard about this, and said, "This women is destined for good." He stood at her door and conveyed his salam to her, then said: "I have heard about what you gave out to others. Send her a thousand dirhams to keep for herself." But she did the same thing with that money, and did not even keep a single dirham or dinar for herself.

Umm al-Banin, the sister of `Umar ibn `Abd al-`Aziz, was a marvellous example of generous giving. She said, "Everyone has a passion, and my passion is giving." She used to free slaves every week, and equip horsemen to fight for the sake of Allah (SWT). She would say, "Uff to stinginess! If it were a shirt I would not wear it, and if it were a road I would not follow it."

Zubaydah, the wife of the khalifah Harun al-Rashid, had a channel dug to being water from springs and rain-pools to Makkah, to provide fresh water for the inhabitants of the city and for the pilgrims. This was named `Ayn Zubaydah (the spring of Zubaydah), and was known as one of the wonders of the world at that time. When her treasurer objected to the high cost of this project, she told him: "Do it, even if every single blow of the axe costs a dinar."

Source: Ideal Muslimah

Biography of Ammar bin Yasir

She was the youngest daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his favorite. She married his cousin 'Ali bin Abi Talib and was the mother of the great martyrs of Islam, Hasan and Hussein. She was born in Makkah a few years before her father was granted Prophethood. Though both Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and Khadijah already had three daughters before her they expressed great happiness at her birth. Going against the accepted custom, her mother did not send her beloved youngest daughter away to be breast fed in any of the surrounding villages, but kept her with her and nursed her herself. She loved her too much to entrust her to anyone else's care. Some years later her father was declared by Allah to be His Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and last Messenger.

She and her mother and sisters Zaynab, Ruqayya, and Umm Kulthum accepted Islam. She spent her early years under the loving and tender care of her parents. Zeal for the defense of what is sacred and love of the righteous was ingrained in her.

Before Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) proclaimed himself the Last Prophet of Allah Almighty, he was the most popular, loved and respected man among the Quraysh. But once he announced himself to be the Allah's Prophet and Messenger, his whole life seemed to turn around. The streets he previously frequented were strewn with thorns and filth and garbage was thrown on him from balconies and rooftops. Elaborate plans were made to murder him. Naturally, all these trials and tribulations could not but leave a mark on his home life. Fatimah was passing the impressionable years of her childhood in the shadow of these events. Yet, her maturity was such that she faced all this with remarkable patience and determination. She fought like a courageous little tigress to defend her father and protect him. She would stand in front of him to shield him from the attacks of devilish men like Abu Jahl, 'Utbah and Shaybah.

On one occasion, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) went into the sanctuary of Makkah with some of his Companions and started to pray, the disbelievers had just then sacrificed a camel. The filth and bowels of the camel were lying there, when a horrible idea came to Abu Jahl. He asked who among his friends would like to lift all that filth and pile it on the back of Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) 'Uqbah bin Abi Mu'it, the lowest of the low among his friends, got up shrugged his shoulders with satanic glee, and said he would perform the task. And he lifted up the bloody filthy mess and piled it on the Prophet's back while he was in the act of prostrating before Allah. All of them then broke into peals of uncontrollable devilish laughter. When news of this dastardly act reached Fatimah, she rushed to the sanctuary. Removing with her little hands the impurity, furious at the brutal treatment given to her beloved father, she scolded the disbelievers. When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) finished his prayers, he lifted his hands in supplication and appealed to Allah to hold these men, Abu Jahl bin Hisham, Shaybah bin Rabi'ah, 'Uqbah bin Abi Mu'it and Umayyah bin Khalaf, in His relentless grip. These devils became very nervous because they knew that any supplication made at the sanctuary in Makkah is never rejected by Allah Almighty. And the Prophet's prayers were answered.

Once Abu Jahl was sitting with the disbelievers in front of the Ka'bah, they were planning how to eliminate this man for the 'crime' of rejecting the idols. They hated him for propagating the Oneness of Allah and for proclaiming himself as His Last Prophet and Messenger. Fatimah happened to pass by and heard him. She was so terrified of what these barbarians could do to her father that she went running to tell him of their dastardly plot. As she wept she told him they had sworn in the names of their most famous idols to kill him. All of them would attack him the moment he stepped out of his house. Innocently she asked him what would happen now. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) told her to have faith in Allah, as He was her father's Protector.

Once Fatimah passed by Abu Jahl bin Hisham on the street and he, for no reason, gave her a slap across the face. She went to Abu Sufyan, the leader of the Quraysh, and complained to him about Abu Jahl's uncivilized behavior. Abu Sufyan took her with him to the place where the barbarian was still sitting, and told her to slap him in exactly the same way as he had done. When she went home and narrated this incident to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) he was very pleased at Abu Sufyan's sense of justice and fair play. He then prayed that he should accept Islam as the true religion. His supplications for Abu Sufyan were accepted and he finally swore allegiance to Allah and His Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him)

Seven years had passed since Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) declared himself to be Allah's chosen Prophet. The whole might of the Quraysh had not been able to silence him and his Message; the people who answered the call of Allah were persecuted and tortured in every way possible. When Hamzah bin 'Abdul Muttalib and 'Umar bin Khattab accepted Islam the whole of Makkah was shaken. The people started pushing the leaders to take some action. They decided to boycott the Muslims, socially and economically, even food and water was withheld. The Muslims went into a state of siege in Shi'b Abi Talib which lasted for three years.

The richest woman of Makkah, Khadijah, and her daughters the youngest stood like rocks by their father. They would give their lives for him. And in a sense little Fatimah did, because this mental and physical ordeal affected her health and physique for the rest of her life.

Soon after the siege of was lifted, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and Fatimah and her sisters went through the trauma of losing their beloved Khadijah, and his greatest supporter and defender, his uncle Abi Talib. Fatimah was facing all these troubles and experiencing them first hand side by side with her father. It was also at this time that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) went to Ta'if with the Message of Islam. they welcomed him with stones and he left injured and bleeding, he prayed to Allah to guide them to the right path.

Umm Kulthum and Fatimah started weeping when they saw his condition. He affectionately wiped away their tears and consoled them. He said it was inevitable that Allah would help to spread His religion and make it triumph against all odds. Easier times were bound to follow the hard and difficult days.

And sure enough Mus'ab bin 'Umair who was the Prophet's ambassador to Al-Madinah gave the good news that the people there were being drawn into the fold of Islam. They invited Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) to settle in their city, and promised to help him in any way they could. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) accepted their invitation and with the consent of Allah Almighty decided to migrate to Al-Madinah. He left his two daughters at home in Makkah, with his new wife Sawdah bint Zam'ah.

He sent for them later, and thus these three ladies also had the privilege of becoming migrants for the cause. But the disbelievers could not bear to see them all moving out either. Some mischievous elements caught hold of them on the outskirts of Makkah. One evil Qurayshi youth, Huwayrith bin Naqith started jabbing at the camel on which the Prophet's daughters were riding, and the camel reared up in the air, and the two girls fell down. When he saw this he ran away.

When they reached their destination, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) received them. He was very happy to see them alive and well. Those whom Allah Almighty protects, no one can harm them.

When Fatimah was eighteen years old and prominent personalities started proposing for her, but the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said he was waiting for a sign from Allah. One day 'Ali came to see the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) but he was very shy and diffident and seemed to be holding something back. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) realized what was on his mind and asked him if he came to propose marriage to Fatimah. 'Ali answered that he had. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) asked Fatimah what she thought of the proposal. She started to weep silently. He then told her that 'Ali was a learned, kind-hearted and brave young man. Fatimah accepted her father's decision. He then asked 'Ali if he had some money for the dowry. 'Ali replied that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) had seen his life from the cradle and knew his financial position very well. Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) asked him where his shield was, and said that would be the dowry for Fatimah. 'Ali sent it to the market with his slave to be sold and got four hundred Dirhams for it. This he gave to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who asked him to keep the money and buy some things for the house and perfume for the wedding. Then he asked his esteemed companions to attend the ceremony.

Ali read out a speech for the occasion: 'All Praise is for Allah. We are grateful to Him for His Bounties and His Blessings. I bear witness that None has the right to be worshipped but Allah, vouching for Him so it will reach Him and gain His Favor. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has married his daughter, Fatimah to me and the Mahr has been fixed at four hundred Dirhams. Now all those present please listen to what the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has to say and bear witness.'

After that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) praised Allah Almighty and recited the marriage ceremony, after asking Fatimah for her consent. He announced the Mahr and told all those present that Allah had commanded him to have Fatimah married to 'Ali. After that he prayed for a happy and blessed future for the bride and groom.

Some basic things were purchased for the house to which 'Ali and Fatimah moved. A bed, a pillow filled with the leaves of dried date palm, a plate, a glass, a water bag and a grinding stone, these were the few things with which the daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) set up her new home. The house that was available was quite a distance from the Prophet's Mosque. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) wished his daughter could live closer to him, so that he could see her daily. When one of the Companion Harithah bin Nu'man Ansari, came to know of this he approached the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) very respectfully, saying he had a number of houses close to the Prophet's Mosque and he was welcome to choose any one of them. This would make that particular house dearer to him. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was very moved by this offer and chose one for Fatimah So, 'Ali and Fatimah moved in and started the routine of daily life. It was usual for her to grind the wheat, fetch water from the well and cook their meals.

Since she was not very healthy, the siege having left its mark on her, Fatimah used to get very tired with all this hard work. On one occasion after a battle, a lot of money, precious jewelry and prisoners of war, both men and women, were taken by the Muslim army. 'Ali suggested that she should go to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and ask him for a maid to help.

Fatimah went to see her father and request him for some help. He was not at home and she left a message with 'A'ishah. At night, before going to sleep, her father came to visit her. He told her that he would give her something much better than a slave girl. And he taught her some phrases in praise of Almighty Allah. These, he said, were better than any maid. And he taught her to recite thirty-three times Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah), thirty-three times Alhumdulillah (All praise is for Allah), thirty-three times Allah-u-Akbar (Allah is the greatest).

Fatimah spent her entire life as a pious servant of Allah, always patient and grateful to her Maker, there was not a word of complaint from her, however difficult the circumstances. The world and its attractions held no charm for her. Her motto in life was always service for Islam. In the battles she was at the front nursing the wound the sick. When her father was injured in the battle of Uhud, it was she who burnt a part of a straw mat and used its ashes to stem the flow of blood. There is a narration in Sahih Al-Bukhari that when the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was asked on one occasion whom he loved best in the world he named his youngest daughter, Fatimah.

'A'ishah, talking of her, says she bore a remarkable resemblance to her father. She not only looked like him, but her way of speaking, sitting, standing and walking - in other words all her mannerisms and gestures were exactly like his. Whenever her father visited her she would receive him and kiss his forehead with respect. They were exceptionally close to each other and whenever she visited her father, he would stand up and receive her. If he saw her troubled or sad he would also be grieved, and if he saw her happy he would also be pleased.

One day the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) heard that there was some misunderstanding between 'Ali and Fatimah, On the way to their house he looked very troubled and sad, and when he left their house he seemed very much at peace. Some of his Companions mentioned this; He replied that he just settled some differences between his two dear children and his happiness made his face glow.

On one occasion 'Ali made up his mind to marry Abu Jahl's daughter. Fatimah came to hear about it and told her father that 'Ali was planning to marry into Abu Jahl's family; the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was disturbed when he heard this. He went to the mosque and gave a sermon, saying that Fatimah was a part of his heart and anything that made her unhappy displeased him. He said that the daughter of Allah's Messenger and the daughter of His enemy could not be married to the same man. 'Ali changed his mind and apologized to Fatimah for any pain he might have caused her.

One day 'Ali asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who was dearer to him, himself or Fatimah? The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) answered that he loved Fatimah more, but 'Ali was dearer to him It was a masterly piece of diplomacy but it was the truth, because he really did love both of them deeply.

Their first son was born in the 3rd year after Hijrah. When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) heard the good news he was very happy and immediately went to see the child. He named him Hasan and recited the Adhan for him. Then on the seventh day his head was shaved, and an amount of silver equivalent to the weight of the hair was distributed among the poor.

In the 4th year after Hijrah, a second son was born. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) named him Hussein, and in his ears too he recited the Adhan. It is said a third son Muhsin was born but died in his infancy. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) loved these two grandchildren dearly. He used to say that they were like blossoms and would be the leaders of the youths of Paradise. Usamah bin Zayd says that one day he saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) carrying something wrapped in a sheet. He asked him what he was carrying. He opened the sheet and what did he see, but these two little boys all wrapped up in their grandfather's arms.

In the 5th year after Hijrah a daughter was born to 'Ali and Fatimah; the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) named her Zaynab; in the 7th year after Hijrah another daughter was born and he named her Umm Kulthum. When Zaynab bint 'Ali grew up she married 'Abdullah bin Ja'far bin Abi Talib. And Umm Kulthum married 'Umar bin Khattab. They had two children Zayd and Ruqayya.

Imam Ahmad was once asked what he thought of 'Ali and his family members. He said their position in history is unparalleled. According to what the Noble Quran tells us Allah Almighty had cleaned them of every kind of sin, impurity of faith, disobedience to the Divine Will and social evils.

Ibn 'Abdullah writes that whenever the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) came back from any journey or after taking part in a battle, he would first go to the his Mosque in Al-Madinah and pray two Rak'as (units), then he would visit Fatimah and then visit his wives.

There is a miraculous incident related in Al-Bidayah way An-Nihayah, once a lady sent Fatimah some bread and roasted meat. She put this in a plate and covered it with cloth. Then she sent a message to her father to come and eat. When he arrived she removed the cloth and to her astonishment she found the plate full of bread and plenty of meat. She understood that this abundance and plenty had come from Allah. She praised Almighty Allah and asked Allah to mention and bless His and started to serve the meal to him, beginning with Allah Almighty's Name. When he saw such a huge amount he smiled and asked who had sent it all. She promptly said Allah gave it to her and He provides sustenance to whom He pleased without limits Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) smiled and ate the meal with his daughter and her family Yet there was so much food still left over that it was sent to the Mothers of the Believers. They also ate their fill and then it was distributed among the neighbors.

Source:"Great women of Islam" by Mahmood Ahmad Ghadanfar with the help of http://www.islamswomen.com

Abdullah bin Hathafah's courage

A story which shows the steadfastness of the Sahabah

In 19th hijrah ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه sent an army of Mujahedeen to war. 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was also a soldier in the army. The roman emperor was receiving regular news bulletins regarding the advance of this army. He knew that the Muslims were resolute and truthful people who would sacrifice their lives for Allah. He had told his armies that if they captured any Muslim alive they should bring the captive to his court. It was the will of Allah that 'Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was taken prisoner. They took him to the court of Caesar and told him:

"We have brought a prisoner who is a Companion of the Prophet(Peace be upon him) and who was one of the first to accept Islam."

When ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه was brought before the Emperor of Rome, he gave him a penetrating look and said: “I have a plan.”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه asked him: “What is your plan?”

He replied: “ I invite you to convert to Christianity. If you do so, I will free you and treat you with all due respect.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered boldly and resolutely: “This is absolutely impossible. I think it is a thousand times better to die than to accept your invitation.”

The Emperor said: “I think you are a brave man. If you accept my invitation, I am even ready to share the rule over my kingdom with you.”

The shackled prisoner smiled and answered: “By Allah! You need have no hopes that I will turn against Islam for a moment, even if you give me your kingdom plus the whole peninsula of Arabia!”

The Emperor was enraged and shouted that he would kill him. ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه answered calmly: “You can do whatever you please."

The Roman Emperor ordered that he be put to death. He instructed that his feet should be fettered and he should be chained. Arrows were to be shot at him so as to pierce his palms. After this was done, Caesar again invited him-for a third time-to accept Christianity. Again ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused to accept Christianity. Finally, Caesar ordered that a huge cauldron be placed on a fire and ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه be brought down from the stake. When the oil started to boil, he ordered that two of the Muslim prisoners be brought. When they were presented before him, he ordered that one of them should be thrown into the boiling oil. The moment he was thrown in his flesh began to separate from his bones.

Again he turned his attention towards ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and asked him: “Even now you have a chance to accept Christianity.”

But he refused him more forcefully than before. Caesar had no other choice now but to order that he too be thrown into the boiling cauldron. When he was brought near the oil, his eyes filled with tears and brimmed over. When Caesar’s men saw this, they told him that the prisoner was crying. Caesar thought that it must be due to sheer panic. Caesar said: “Bring him to me.”

When he was brought to Caesar, he again invited him to Christianity. But, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه refused again!

Surprised, Caesar asked, “Then why did you cry?”

‘Abdullah رضى لله عنه replied: “When I saw the scene I felt sorry that I had only one life. I wished that I had a thousand lives to sacrifice in your boiling cauldron for Allah (swt).”

Caesar was stunned momentarily into silence when he heard this. Finally he said:“All right I will release you if you kiss my forehead.”

‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه asked him: “Will you release the other Muslim prisoners as well?”

He says in his report of the incident that he was thinking to himself, it would not be too big a price to pay for the release of so many captured Muslims. Then approaching Caesar he kissed him on his forehead. Keeping to his promise, Caesar ordered that the prisoners be given into the custody of ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه. As soon as he got his freedom, ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه went to ‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه and narrated to him all that had happened.

‘Umar bin Khattab رضى لله عنه was very happy and said: “Every Muslim owes a duty to ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه and it is compulsory that each of us should kiss his forehead. I will kiss him first.”

Then he took the lead and kissed ‘Abdullah bin Hathafah رضى لله عنه on his forehead.

Source: Commanders of the Muslim army by Mahmood Ahmad Ghadanfar

Conversation between Ribi bin Amir and the Persian army commander

Before the battle of Qadissiyyah the commander of the Persian army, Rustam sent words to the Muslim Commander sa’d bin abu Waggas to depute one of his trusted men for negotiations.

Sa’d sent rib’i bin Amir. Rustam adorned his court with unwanted splendor and pomp to prepare for the audience with the Muslim ambassador. The entire court was carpeted with cloth of gold, the pillows were of rich silk, while gem bedecked throne was placed in the center.

Rib’i came right up to the richly carpeted floor and dismounting from his horse, attached the reins to a pillow. He then moved on supported by a spear piercing in to the carpet and cutting it and making holes in it with its point and sat beside Rustam. The courtiers made an attempt to pull him down from the throne and disarm him. Thereupon Rib’i thundered. “I have come on invitation and not of my own. Our religion strictly forbids anybody sitting like God and the rest standing before him with their hands folded. Now Rustam intervened and asked them not to do anything against the will of envoy.

However, on second thought rib’i dismounted from the throne, slit a portion of the carpet with his dagger and sat on the earth and said addressing Rustam, “We are not at all need of your carpet. The earth spread by Allah the Almighty is enough for us. Rustam then asked Rib’i through the interpreter, “What is your object in waging war against us.” Rib’i replied, “We intend to bring the slaves of Allah the Almighty to the expanse of the next world from the narrowness of this world and promote justice and Islam in place of atrocities and false religion. Any one who adopts justice and Islam will find us non –interfering in regard to his wealth, property and country. But we shall fight with whoever stands in our way until we go either to paradise or attain victory. If you seek to pay jizyah we shall accept it and will cease to go against you and you will find us standing by you if and when you need us for the safety of your life and property. "

Having heard this Rustam asked,”are you the chief of the Muslims. Rib’i replied “No, I am an ordinary soldier. But each one of us even the most ordinary can speak on behalf of the most powerful person and every person have full power in every matter".

The utterance of Rib’i left Rustam and courtiers dumb founded. Rustam then said,” the scabbard of your sword is quite rotten.” Ribi drew his sword out of the sheath and said “it has been tempered very recently”. Rustam again said, “The blade of your spear is very small. How can it be any use in battles? “ Rib’i replied “ this blade pierces deep in to the chest of the enemy and goes across it. Have you not seen that a spark is enough to burn down an entire city? “Well I shall ponder over your utterance and hold consultation with my men of sound judgment”. Rib’i got up and rode to Sa’d bin abu Waggas.

Source: History of Islam (part 1) by Akbar Shah Najeebabadi

The story of Ummu Ibrahim

(This story was mentioned by scholars like Abu Jaafar al Luban. He narrates) :

It is mentioned that one of the righteous women in Basra was Umm Ibrahim al Hashimeeyah. The enemy attacked one of the Muslim towns so people were encouraged to join jihad. AbdulWahid bin Zayd al Basri delivered a speech encouraging jihad and among the audience was Umm Ibrahim. Among the things AbdulWahid talked about was al Hoor (the women of Paradise). Umm Ibrahim stood up and said to AbdulWahid: “You know my son Ibrahim and you know that the nobility of al Basra wish to have him marry one of their daughters and I have not agreed to one of them yet. But I like this girl you described and I would be happy to marry her to my son. Can you please describe her again?"

AbdulWahid then narrated a poem in the description of the Hoor. Umm Ibrahim said: I want my son to marry this girl and I would pay you 10,000 dinars as her dowry and you take him with you in this army. He might die as a Shaheed and intercede for me on the Day of Judgment. AbdulWahid said: “If you do so, that is great success for you and your son.” She then called her son from the audience. He stood up and said: “Yes my mother!” She said: “Are you pleased to marry this girl with the condition of giving your soul to Allah?” He said: “Yes! I am very pleased!” She said: “O Allah you are my witness that I have married my son to this girl from Paradise with the condition he spends his soul in your sake” Then she went and brought back with her 10,000 dinars and gave it to AbdulWahid and said: “This is her dowry. Take it and use it to provide for the mujahideen” She then purchased for her son a good horse and she armed him. When the army started its march Ibrahim came out with the reciters of Quran surrounding him and reciting:

“Indeed, Allah has purchased from the believers their lives and their properties [in exchange] for that they will have Paradise.”

When Umm Ibrahim was greeting her son she told him: “Be careful and don’t allow any shortcomings from yourself to be seen by Allah” She them embraced him and kissed him and said: “May Allah never bring us together except on the Day of Judgment!”

AbdulWahid said: “When we reached the enemy’s territory and people were called to fight. Ibrahim was in the front and he killed many of the enemy but then they overwhelmed him and killed him. On our way back I told my soldiers not to tell Umm Ibrahim that her son was killed until I tell her. When we entered al Basra she met me and said: “Did Allah accept my gift so I can celebrate or was it rejected so I should cry?” I said: “Allah did accept your gift and your son died as a Shaheed” She then prostrated to thank Allah and said: “Thank you Allah for accepting my gift”

The following day she came to me in the mosque and said: “Rejoice!” I said: “What good news do you have?” She said: “I saw my son Ibrahim last night in a dream. He was in a beautiful garden dressed in green clothes, sitting on a throne made of pearl and he had a crown on his head. He told me: “Rejoice my mother! I got married to my bride!”

Source: MASHARI AL-ASHWAQ ILA MASARI AL-USHAAQ WA MUTHEER AL-GHARAAM ILA DAAR ASSALAAM

The supplication of 'Abdullah bin Jahash

Sa'd bin Abu Waqas (Radiyallahu anhu) relates a memorable incident from the life of 'Abdullah bin Jahash (Radiyallahu anhu).

"When the battle of Uhud was about to take place, 'Abdullah bin Jahash took me aside and asked me if I would not like to offer supplications to Allah. I answered that of course I would like to do so and prayed thus:

"O Allah Lord of the worlds! When I enter the battlefield let me come face to face with an enemy who is great and furious warrior. Let me engage with him a hand to hand fight and give me control over him until I finally overpower him completely. Then I should kill him and take away all his belongings."

Abdullah bin Jahash said " Ameen" after I completed my prayer.

Then Abdullah bin Jahash offered supplications to Allah:

"O Allah! Please give me the ability to fight against an enemy who is a furious, brave and experienced warrior. I should fight only to gain your pleasure and blessings. Then he should succeed in overpowering me and cut off my nose and ears. When I come into Your presence on the day of Judgement You should ask me: 'Abdullah why were your ears and nose cut off? Then I should answer you thus, 'For your sake O Lord'

The supplication of 'Abdullah bin Jahash was much better than mine, and Allah accepted it. In the evening I saw  that he had been killed and the enemy had strung his ears and nose on a string. He achieved the honorable status of a martyr like his maternal uncle, Hamzah.""

Source: Commanders of the Muslim Army

Some beautiful advice given to Imam Ahmad by righteous people

By: Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid

When the Muslim is faced with trials and his Lord tests him in order to purify him, one of the means which Allah gives him to help him stand firm is a righteous man who will advise and help him. Through this man’s words Allah helps the believer to stand firm and directs his steps. These words remind him of Allah, the Meeting with Him, His Paradise and His Hell. There follow some examples from the life of Imaam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him), who entered the test and emerged as pure gold.

He was taken to al Ma’moon in chains, and (al-Ma’moon) had already issued him such a stern warning before he reached him that a servant said to Imaam Ahmad, “It hurts me, O Abu ‘Abd-Allaah, that al-Ma’moon has unsheathed a sword which he has never unsheathed before, and he swears by his relationship to the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) that if you do not accept what he says about the Qur’aan being created, he will certainly kill you with that sword.” (Al- Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, 1/332)

At this point, the intelligent scholars took the opportunity to say to their imaam words that would help him to remain steadfast. In al-Siyar (11/238), al-Dhahabi reports from Abu Ja’far al-Anbaari: “When Ahmad was taken to al-Ma’moon, I was told about it, so I crossed the Euphrates and found him sitting in an inn, where I greeted him. He said, ‘O Abu Ja’far, why did you go to the trouble (of coming here)?’ I said, ‘Listen to me, today you are the leader and the people are following you. By Allah, if you accept that the Qur’aan is created, a lot of people will go along with that, but if you do not, then neither will they. Even if this man (al-Ma’moon) does not kill you, you will still die, because death is inevitable, so fear Allah, and do not go along with (al- Ma’moon).’ Ahmad began to weep and said, ‘Ma sha Allah.’ Then he said, ‘O Abu Ja’far, say it again,’ so I said it again, and he kept saying, ‘Ma sha Allah.’…”

With regard to his being taken to al-Ma’moon, Imaam Ahmad said: “We reached al- Rahbah at midnight, and a man came to us and said, ‘Which of you is Ahmad ibn Hanbal?’ He was told, ‘This man.’ He said to the camel-driver, ‘Slow down.’ … Then he said, ‘Listen to me, why should you worry if you get killed here and go to Paradise?’ Then he said, ‘May Allah be with you,’ and left. I asked about him and I was told, ‘He is an Arab from the tribe of Rabee’ah who deals with wool in the desert. He is called Jaabir ibn ‘Aamir, and they say good things about him.’” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/241).

In al-Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, it says that a Bedouin said to Imaam Ahmad: “Listen to me, you are a representative of the people, so do not be bad news for them. You are the leader of the people today, so beware of doing what they are asking you to do, lest you bear their sins on the Day of Resurrection. If you love Allah, then bear this with patience, for the only thing standing between you and Paradise is your being killed.” Imaam Ahmad said: “His words strengthened my resolve not to do what they were asking me to do.” (Al-Bidaayah wa’l-Nihaayah, 1/332).

It was reported that Imaam Ahmad said: “I never heard any stronger words at that time than what a Bedouin said to me at Rahbat Tawq, a village between al-Raqqah and Baghdaad on the banks of the Euphrates. He said, ‘O Ahmad, if they kill you for the truth, you will be a shaheed (martyr), and if you live, you will be praised.’ And so my heart grew strong.” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/241).

Imaam Ahmad said of the young man Muhammad ibn Nooh, who accompanied him at that time of trial: “Even though he was so young, he had such great knowledge, and I never saw anyone who adhered more firmly to the command of Allah than Muhammad ibn Nooh, and I hope that his end was good. He said to me one day, ‘O Abu ‘Abd-Allaah, you are not like me. You are a man whom people follow, and they are straining their necks to see what you will do, so fear Allah and adhere to His commands.’ Then he died, and I prayed the janaazah (funeral) prayer for him and buried him.” (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/242)

Even his fellow-prisoners, whom Imaam Ahmad used to lead in prayer in chains, had a role to play in helping him to stand firm. One day when he was in prison, Imaam Ahmad said, “I don’t care about being in prison – it is no different from my home – or about being killed by the sword, but I am afraid of the trial of being whipped.” One of the other prisoners heard him and said, “Don’t worry, O Abu ‘Abd-Allah, it is only two lashes of the whip, then you don’t feel where the rest fall.” It was as if this reassured him and calmed him down. (Siyar A’laam al-Nubala’, 11/240)

So try to seek advice from righteous people, and try to understand it if it is given to you.

Source: Wasaa’il al-Thabaat- (English translation: Means of Steadfastness: Standing Firm in Islam)