Friday sermon delivered on 27th January 2023 by the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper), from Masjid Mubarak in Islamabad, Tilford, UK.
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Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the Messenger of Allah
I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is the Messenger of Allah Come to Prayer Come to Prayer Come to success Come to success Allah is the Greatest Allah is the Greatest There is none worthy of worship except Allah Peace and blessings of Allah be upon you.
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. He is One and has no partner. and I bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is His Servant and Messenger. After this I seek refuge with Allah from Satan the accursed. In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful.
All praise belongs to Allah, Lord of all the worlds. The Gracious, The Merciful, Master of the Day of Judgment. Thee alone do we worship and Thee alone do we implore for help. Guide us in the right path – The path of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy blessings,
Those who have not incurred displeasure, and those who have not gone astray. Today, I will continue mentioning some more details regarding the companions. The first mention is of Hazrat Abu Lubabah bin Abd al-Mundhir (ra). There are some further narrations about him which I will relate. A detailed account has already been mentioned.
Allamah Ibn ‘Abd al-Barr writes in his book, Al-Isti’ab, that in relation to the Qur’anic verse, “And there are others who have confessed their faults. “They mixed good works with others that are evil”, Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (ra) says that this verse was revealed about Abu Lubabah and seven, eight, or nine other individuals. These individuals remained behind on the occasion of the Battle of Tabuk.
Later on, they felt ashamed, sought repentance from God and tied themselves to pillars. Their good work was repenting and their evil work was staying behind during Jihad. Mujamma‘ bin Jaryah relates that Hazrat Khansa’ bint Khidam was in the wedlock of Hazrat Unais bin Qatadah
On the day he was martyred during the Battle of Uhud. Following this, the father of Hazrat Khansa’ bint Khidam married her to an individual from the tribe of Muzainah. However, she disliked him. Hazrat Khansa’ went to the Holy Prophet (sa) and he annulled her Nikah (marriage agreement). Thereafter, Hazrat Lubabah married her
And through this (wedlock) Hazrat Sa’ib bin Abi Lubabah was born. Abd al-Jabbar bin Ward relates that I heard Ibn Abi Mulaikah say, “Abdullah bin Abi Yazid said that Hazrat Abu Lubabah passed by us. “We were with him until he entered his home and we entered inside with him.
“We saw a person dressed in old and ripped clothes. “I heard him say that he heard the Holy Prophet (sa) say, ‘Whoever does not recite the Holy Qur’an in a melodious manner is not from among us.’” Then there is a mention of Hazrat Abu al-Dhayyah bin Thabit bin Nu’man.
In one narration it is mentioned that Hazrat Abu al-Dhayyah set out for the Battle of Badr alongside the Holy Prophet (ra). However, he wounded his calf by hitting the edge of a rock and turned back as a result.
Nevertheless, the Holy Prophet (sa) kept a share of (the spoils of war of) Badr for him. Following this is a mention of Hazrat ‘Ansa (ra) Maula (freed slave of) the Holy Prophet (sa). His appellation was Abu Masruh and some have stated it as Abu Misrah.
Hazrat ‘Ansa (ra) was born in Sarah, which is located near Yemen and Abyssinia. With regards to his migration, it is stated that when he migrated towards Madinah, he stayed with Hazrat Kulthum bin al-Hadm. According some other narrations, he stayed with Hazrat Sa’d bin Khaithamah. Imam Zuhri relates that
The Holy Prophet (sa) used to permit people to meet him following the Zuhr prayer and Hazrat ‘Ansa (ra) would seek permission from the Holy Prophet (sa) on their behalf. It was his responsibility to go inside and inform (the Holy Prophet (sa)) of the visitors.
Then there is mention of Hazrat Marthad bin Abi Marthad (ra). Imran bin Minah says that when Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra) and his son, Hazrat Marthad bin Abi Marthad (ra) migrated to Madinah, they stayed at the home of Hazrat Kulthum bin al-Hadm (ra). Muhammad bin Umar says that
He (Hazrat Marthad bin Abi Marthad (ra)) also took part in the Battle of Uhud, and was martyred during the incident of Raji. We also find mention of Hazrat Marthad’s (ra) son, whose name was Unais bin Marthad al-Ghanawi (ra).
He is also called Anas in some places, but we find mention of the name Anees more often. He was with the Holy Prophet (sa) during the victory of Makkah and the Battle of Hunain. Ibn Hajr (rh) states that the martyrdom of Hazrat Marthad (ra) took place in the fourth year after Hijrah.
Then there is mention of Hazrat Abu Marthad, Kannaz bin al-Husain al-Ghanawi (ra). His actual name was Kannaz. His father’s name was Husain bin Yarbu’. There is disagreement in regards to his name. According to some, his name was Kannaz bin Husain, while according to others his name was Husain bin Kannaz.
Still, some others also say that his name was Aiman, but the more common narration states that his name was Kannaz bin Husain. Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra) was the same age as Hazrat Hamzah (ra), and was also his confederate. He was tall and had a thick set of hair.
Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra) and his son Hazrat Marthad (ra) were both fortunate enough to participate in the Battle of Badr. His son, Hazrat Marthad (ra) was martyred during the incident of Raji‘. The grandson of Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra), whose name was Hazrat Unais bin Marthad (ra),
Was also a companion of the Holy Prophet (sa). He accompanied the Holy Prophet (sa) during the victory of Makkah and the Battle of Hunain. It is mentioned that in Rabi‘ al-Awwal in the second year of Hijrah, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent a cavalry contingent consisting of 30 Muhajirin
To the west of Madinah towards the region of Is in Sif al-Bahr, under the command of Hazrat Hamzah bin Abd al-Muttalib (ra). Hazrat Hamzah (ra) and his army quickly reached the location, and saw the chief of Makkah, Abu Jahl, with a cavalry of 300, waiting for the Muslims.
Both armies began to arrange themselves in rows and the battle was about to begin. Just then the chief of the area, Majdi bin Amr al-Juhani, who held good ties with both parties, stepped in and successfully deterred the conflict, and the battle was narrowly avoided.
This expedition is known as the expedition of Hamzah bin Abd al-Muttalib (ra). Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra) was also part of this expedition. There is mention in some narrations that the Holy Prophet (sa) tied the first flag of Islam and gave it to Hazrat Hamzah (ra), and during the expedition,
This flag of Hazrat Hamzah (ra) was carried by Hazrat Abu Marthad (ra). Then there is mention of Hazrat Salit bin Qais bin Amr (ra). Hazrat Salit (ra) belonged to the Khazraj tribe, who were part of the Ansar (residents of Madinah).
He belonged to the branch of the tribe known as Banu Adiyy bin Najjar. Hazrat Salit’s mother’s name was Hazrat Zughaibah bint Zurarah (ra), who was the sister of Hazrat Asad bin Zurarah (ra). It is mentioned in a narration that, during the Battle of Badr,
Hazrat Salit (ra) captured Walid bin Walid, who was the brother of Hazrat Khalid bin Walid (ra). During the victory of Makkah, the flag of the Ansari tribe Banu Ma’zin was in the hands of Hazrat Salit bin Qais (ra). In 13 Hijri, or according to some the beginning of 14 Hijri,
During the caliphate of Hazrat Umar (ra), the incident of the Battle of Jisr occurred. This battle was fought between the Muslims and the Persians in present-day Iraq. The commander of the Muslim army was Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin Mas‘ud Thaqafi (ra),
Which is why this battle is also called the Battle of Jisr Abu Ubaid as well. There are other names for this battle as well. It is called the Battle of Marauhah, named after a place on the western bank of the river Euphrates. It is also called the Battle of Quss al-Natif,
Named after a place on the eastern bank of the Euphrates River near Kufah. 2,000 Persians were killed during this battle, while according to other narrations 6,000 Persians were killed. As for the Muslims, according to some narrations, 1,800 Muslims were martyred, whilst according to others 4,000 Muslims were martyred,
Among whom 70 were from the Ansar and 22 were from the Muhajirin. Hazrat Salit bin Qais (ra) was also one of these martyrs. According to some, the last person to be martyred in this battle was Hazrat Salit bin Qais (ra). According to some historians, his progeny did not continue after him
Whilst according to other historians, he had a son whose name was Abdullah bin Salit, who has mentioned a narration from his father. Another account states that Hazrat Salit (ra) had a daughter whose name was Subaitah, and her mother was Hazrat Sukhailah bint Simmah (ra). The author of Usd al-Ghabah writes
That Hazrat Salit’s (ra) lineage did not continue beyond his children. Abdullah bin Salit bin Qais narrates from his father Hazrat Salit bin Qais (ra) that there was a garden belonging to a man from the Ansar. Inside this garden, some of the trees belonged to another man from the Ansar.
The latter, whose trees were inside the garden, would frequent the garden day and night. The Holy Prophet (sa) ordered him to give the dates of those trees which were along the boundary wall of the garden to the Ansari man who owned the garden. Then there is mention of Hazrat Mujazzar bin Ziyad (ra).
Musa bin Uqba relates that people were of the opinion that Abu Yusr had killed Abu Bakhtari, whereas many others had claimed that Mujazzar had killed him. Hazrat Mujazzar (ra) had killed Suwaid bin Samit in the Era of Ignorance, and this killing instigated the battle of Bu’ath.
Later on Hazrat Mujazzar (ra) and Hazrat Harith bin Suwaid (ra) both accepted Islam, however, Hazrat Harith bin Suwaid (ra) continued searching for an opportunity to kill Hazrat Mujazzar in order to avenge his father. When the Quraish turned to launch an attack on the Muslims during the battle of Uhud,
Hazrat Harith bin Suwaid (ra) approached from behind him and martyred him by cutting his throat. During the return from the battle of Hamra’ al-Asad, Gabriel (as) appeared before the Holy Prophet (sa) and informed him that Harith bin Suwaid had dishonestly killed Mujazzar bin Ziyad,
And commanded the Holy Prophet (sa) to kill Harith bin Suwaid as a punishment for killing Mujazzar bin Ziyad. The Holy Prophet (sa) went to him on a day when it was extremely hot in Quba. Upon the instructions of the Holy Prophet (sa),
Hazrat Uwaim bin Sa’idah (ra) closed the doors of the Quba mosque and killed Harith bin Suwaid. This is a narration from Al-Tabaqat al-Kubra. Then there is mention of Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ Malik bin Ajlan (ra). In relation to Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’s (ra) acceptance of Islam
It is related by Mu’adh bin Rifa’ah on the account of his father, “Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ and his maternal cousin Hazrat Mu’adh bin Afra’ “went forth and reached Makkah. “When both of them descended the Thaniyyah mountain they saw a person sat under a tree.”
According to the narrator this incident took place prior to the six men from the Ansar, i.e., it happened before the First Pledge of Aqabah. He says, “When they saw this person, they realised it was the Holy Prophet (sa) “and said they should go to him and leave their goods beside him
“until they had completed circling the House of Allah. “They greeted him as per the custom in the Era of Ignorance, “however, he replied according to the Islamic custom. “They said that they had heard that a person had claimed to be a prophet in Makkah, “but they did not recognise who he was.
“They asked who he was, and in response he told them to dismount and come closer. “They dismounted and asked him where is the person who claimed to be a prophet “and whatever he says (i.e. whatever he professes) is in accordance with his claim. “The Holy Prophet (sa) replied, ‘I am that very person.’
“They then asked with regards to Islam and so the Holy Prophet (sa) taught them about Islam, “before asking them, ‘Who has created the skies, and earth, and the mountains?’ “They answered that Allah Almighty had created them. “The Holy Prophet (sa) then asked, ‘Who create you?’ “To which they replied that Allah Almighty did.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) asked, ‘Who created these idols which you worship?’ “They replied that they themselves created them. “The Holy Prophet (sa) then asked, ‘Who is then worthy of worship, ‘the One Who created everything, or the ones which are themselves created?
‘Furthermore, you would be more deserving to be worshipped as you created the idols.’ “He then stated, ‘I call towards the worship of Allah and to bear testimony ‘that there is no god beside Him and that I am His Messenger. ‘I call towards reconciliation in one’s relations and to forsake enmity
‘which is the result of the people’s injustice.’ “They said, ‘By God, even if what you call towards is false, ‘these are still good matters and excellent morals. ‘Please take care of our camels until we return having circled the House of Allah.’ “Mu’adh bin Afra’ remained beside the Holy Prophet (sa).”
Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ states, “I thus went to circle the House of Allah, then took out seven arrows, “one of which was designated for the Holy Prophet (sa) “(as was their custom, they would take an omen from the arrows to receive reassurance). “I then turned my attention to the House of Allah and prayed,
‘O Allah, if what Muhammad (sa) is calling towards is the truth ‘then let his arrow be drawn seven times in a row.’ “I cast lots seven times and each time his arrow was what emerged. “I proclaimed out loud that “(ARABIC) ‘There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.’
“People began to gather around me saying that he is a Sabi (abandoned their religion). “In response I said, ‘Rather, I deem him to be a believer.’ “(The one you speak of is a madman and a Sabi, “(but I replied by saying that he isn’t, and I consider him to be a believer).
“I then went to the higher grounds of Makkah. “When Mu’adh saw me he said, ‘Rifa’ah is coming with his face so bright, ‘which was not the case when he left ‘(meaning, it was not so illumined prior to reciting the Islamic creed as it is now).’ “I approached them and accepted Islam.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) then taught us Surah Yusuf and (ARABIC), before leaving.” Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ (ra) relates, “I was struck by an arrow during the Battle of Badr, “as a result of which I lost my eye. “The Holy Prophet (sa) applied his saliva to my eye and prayed for me,
“and as a result, I no longer felt any pain.” According to another narration, the arrow did not strike Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ (ra), but his father Rafi’ bin Malik. In any case, Allah knows best, and as it were, it resulted in the pain disappearing. Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ (ra) narrates:
“Once, the Holy Prophet (sa) was seated in the mosque and we were in his company. “At this time, a man resembling a Bedouin came to the Holy Prophet (sa). “The man came and offered prayer in a casual manner. “Thereafter, he turned to the Holy Prophet (sa) and conveyed salutations of peace.
“The Holy Prophet (sa) replied, ‘Peace be on you, too. ‘Go back and offer prayer again because you have not offered it.’ “He went to offer prayer once more. “He then returned and conveyed salutations of peace to the Holy Prophet (sa) again. “The Holy Prophet (sa) again responded, ‘Peace be on you, too.
‘Return to your place and offer prayer again because you have not done so.’ “This happened three times over, “and every time, he would come to the Holy Prophet (sa) and convey salutations of peace, “upon which the Holy Prophet (sa) would say, ‘Peace be on you, too.
‘Now, go back and offer prayer because you have not done so.’ “The people there became worried and it was burdensome for them to learn “that a person who offers a prayer in a light, casual manner has not truly offered prayer. “(There were companions sitting there who became very fearful
“(after they learned that a prayer offered casually is no prayer at all). “(The companions) thought that they should evaluate themselves as well in this regard. “At last, the man submitted, ‘Could you demonstrate how to pray and teach me? ‘I am but a human; I try, but I also falter.’
“The Holy Prophet (sa) replied in the affirmative and said, ‘When you make the intention to stand up for prayer, ‘perform ablution first as Allah has commanded you. ‘Thereafter, if you know a portion of the Qur’an, recite it, ‘otherwise recite Alhamdolillah (all praise is due to Allah), Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
‘and La ilaha illa Allah (there is none worthy of worship except Allah). ‘Then, perform the ruku’ (bow) carefully and conscientiously. ‘Thereafter, stand completely straight, and then prostrate intently. ‘After that, sit in a conscientious manner. ‘When you have done this, your prayer is complete.
‘If you do anything less than this, then you have deducted that from your prayer.’” Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ (ra) narrates that once, while he was in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa), he said, “A supplicant’s prayer is not complete “unless he duly performs ablution as Allah the Almighty has ordained.
“One should wash their face and their hands up until their elbows. “One should perform the Masah upon their head (brushing one’s hands over the head) “and wash their feet up until their ankles.” There is another narration from Hazrat Rifa’ah bin Rafi’ (ra) regarding this incident. He narrates (that the Holy Prophet (sa) stated),
“When you stand up to face the Qiblah, “say Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest) and recite Surah al-Fatihah. “After that, recite as much of the Qur’an as Allah desires of you “(recite as much as you remember or are able to recite). “When you bow down in ruku’,
“place both your palms on your knees and keep your back straight.” (Following this,) the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “When you prostrate, prostrate intently, “and when you sit up, support yourself with your right thigh.” Next, I will speak about Hazrat Usaid bin Malik bin Rabi’ah (ra).
Uthman bin Ubaidillah relates that he observed that Abu Usaid dyed his beard yellow. Ibn Ishaq relates that Abu Usaid bin Malik bin Rabi’ah took part in the Battle of Badr. When he lost his vision due to old age, he said, “If I was at Badr today and my vision was intact,
“I would show you the valley from which angels would emerge. “I have absolutely no doubt about this.” Abu Usaid bin Malik bin Rabi’ah Sa’di relates: “We were once in the company of the Holy Prophet (sa) “when a man from Banu Salamah came and asked,
‘O Prophet (sa) of Allah, am I to treat my parents with kindness ‘even after they have passed away?’ “The Holy Prophet (sa) replied, ‘Yes, you can pray for them and seek repentance for them; ‘you can fulfil their unfulfilled oaths after their passing ‘and treat both their relatives with kindness;
‘you can keep (their loved ones) attached and respect their friends. ‘By doing so, their souls will also be rewarded, and they will be granted forgiveness.’” Malik bin Rabi’ah relates: “I heard the Holy Prophet (sa) say, ‘O Allah, forgive those who shave their heads.’
“Upon this, a person said, ‘And what of those who only trim their hair?’ “After saying this three to four times, “the Holy Prophet (sa) (made the same prayer) for those who trimmed their hair. “I had shaven my head that day and I could not be happier,
“even if I received a red camel or an abundance of wealth.” Uthman bin Arqam relates on the authority of his father that on the day of the Battle of Badr, the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “Leave the spoils of war you have obtained.”
Upon this, Hazrat Abu Usaid al-Sa’di left the sword of A’iz al-Murdaban. Thereafter, Hazrat Arqam picked it up and said, “O Prophet (sa) of Allah, grant me this (sword).” Thus, the Holy Prophet (sa) granted him the sword. Next, I will speak about Hazrat Abdullah bin Abd al-Asad (ra).
According to one narration, Muhammad bin Ummarah states that the first person to migrate to us from Makkah to Madinah was Hazrat Abu Salamah bin Abd al-Asad (ra). He came to Madinah on the 10th of Muharram, whereas the Holy Prophet (sa) came to Madinah on the 12th of Rabi’ al-Awwal.
The first Muhajirin (migrant companions) to arrive stayed with Banu Amr bin Auf, and the last Muhajirin to arrive came two months later. Hazrat Umm Salamah (ra) states that when Hazrat Abu Salamah (ra) migrated to Madinah, he stayed in Quba with Hazrat Mubashir bin Abd al-Mundhir (ra).
The Holy Prophet (sa) established a bond of brotherhood between Hazrat Abu Salamah bin Abd al-Asad and Sa’d bin Khaithamah. When a person from the Banu Tayy tribe who had travelled to Madinah to meet his niece, he informed the Holy Prophet (sa) that Khuwailid’s son Tulaihah and Salamah
Were going around to their nation and their allies and inciting them to fight against the Holy Prophet (sa). The Holy Prophet (sa) summoned Abu Salamah, meaning Abdullah bin Abd al-Asad and sent him along with 150 Muhajirin and Ansar in order to put a stop to the Banu Asad.
The Holy Prophet (sa) had a flag made which he gave to them and also sent the informant who gave information regarding the Banu Asad along with them as a guide. The Holy Prophet (sa) instructed Hazrat Abu Salamah, “Continue to tread forth until you reach the area of Banu Asad and set up camp
“and attack them before they are able to confront you with their army.” Hence, according to these instruction, Hazrat Abu Salamah (ra) swiftly travelled night and day whilst avoiding the main paths so that he could close in on the Banu Asad before they came to know of their movements.
Eventually, they reached a spring of the Banu Asad and attacked their cattle enclosure as a result of which they captured three of their shepherds while all others fled for their lives. Hazrat Abu Salamah (ra) divided his army into three battalions; he kept one with him and assigned the other two to different stations.
They were able to capture some more camels and sheep however they were unable to capture any other people. Thereafter, Hazrat Abu Salamah (ra) returned to Madinah. This has been taken from Sirat al-Halabiyyah. Amr bin Salamah says that Hazrat Abu Salamah took part in the battles of Badr and Uhud
And Abu Usamah Jushami injured him during the Battle of Uhud. He struck Hazrat Abu Salamah with his spear. Hazrat Abu Salamah (ra) nursed this wound for a month after which it apparently got better and the wound healed to the point that no one could recognise it.
In the 35th month after migration, during Muharram, the Holy Prophet (sa) sent an expedition towards Qatan bin Bani Asad. Anizah says that Qatan was a mountain between Najd and Khaibar to the south of which resided the Banu Asad bin Khuzaimah.
In any case, they returned after spending more than ten nights outside of Madinah and his wound reopened resulting in him becoming unwell. He passed away on 3 Jamadi al-Akhir 4 AH. It is narrated by Abu Qilabah that
The Holy Prophet (sa) went to visit Abu Salamah bin Abd al-Asad (ra) when he was ill. As soon as the Holy Prophet (sa) arrived, Abu Salamah passed away. The narrator says that upon this, some women said something, to which the Holy Prophet (sa) stated,
“Stop. Do not pray anything except that which is good for yourselves “because angels are present near the deceased body” Or he said, “Near its relatives. They hear their prayers and say ‘Ameen’. “Hence, do not pray anything except that which is good.” The crying and wailing which is prevalent in our (culture)
In the name of mourning should not take place. Then, the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “O Allah, expand his grave and enlighten it for him; increase his light and forgive his sins. “O Allah, elevate his rank among those who are guided. “May You be the One to care for those he has left behind.
“Grant forgiveness to us and to him, O Lord of All the Worlds.” Then he said, “When the soul departs, his sight remains; do you not see his eyes open?” The next mention is of Hazrat Khallad bin Rafi’ al-Zurqi (ra) who was from the Ansar.
Hazrat Khallad bin Rafi’ (ra) was from the Ajlan branch of the Banu Khazraj tribe from the Ansar. His mother’s name was Umm Malik bint Ubayy bin Malik. The name of Hazrat Khallad’s (ra) son was Yahya, who was born to Umm Rafi’ bint Uthman bin Khaldah.
It is recorded that all of his children passed away at a young age. As it has already been mentioned, there was a narration about offering prayer; the Holy Prophet (sa) told a person two or three times to offer his prayer again.
It is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari on the authority of Hazrat Abu Hurairah (ra) that that Holy Prophet (sa) went to the mosque when a person came and offered prayer. Then he greeted the Holy Prophet (sa) to which he responded.
Then he told him to return and offer his prayer again; after that he told him to return again and then again saying that he should go and offer the prayer as it was mentioned before. Then the man said, “By He Who has sent you with the truth
“I cannot offer prayer in a manner better than this, so please teach me.” The Holy Prophet (sa) said, “When you stand for prayer “say ‘Allahu Akbar’ (Allah is the Greatest) then recite from the Qur’an what you know “(meaning after reciting Surah al-Fatihah recite what you can from the Qur’an)
“and then bow until you are satisfied. “Then rise up until you have stood a satisfactory length. “Then prostrate until you are content with your prostration. “Then rise and sit until you are content. “In essence, offer your entire prayer in this manner.” Allamah Ibn Hajr al-Asqalani says that
The person with whom this incident took place was Hazrat Khallad bin Rafi’ (ra). The next mention of is Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra). Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) had the opportunity of rendering great services during the Battle of the Ditch as well. Hazrat Umm Salamah (ra) relates,
“I was alongside the Holy Prophet (sa) during the (battle of the) Ditch “and there was no instance in which I was separated from him. “He would oversee the Ditch himself. “We were very cold and I watched him get up and offer prayers in his tent as much as Allah willed.
“Then he went out and observed for some time. “I then heard him say, ‘These are the riders of the disbelievers who are circling the Ditch. ‘Who will see to them?’ “Then he called out, ‘O Abbad bin Bishr’. “Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) submitted, ‘I am present.’
The Holy Prophet (sa) asked, ‘Is there anyone else with you?’ “He replied, ‘Yes a few of my friends are with me, we are near your tent.’ “The Holy Prophet (sa) said, ‘Take your friends and take a round of the Ditch.
‘There are some from among the riders of the disbelievers who are circling you ‘and they hope to suddenly attack you when you are unaware.’ “Then, the Holy Prophet (sa) prayed, ‘O Allah, keep their evil away from us ‘and grant us Your help against them and defeat them.
‘There is none aside from You Who can defeat them.’” Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) then left with a few other men and saw that Abu Sufyan was with a few other horse riders and was riding around a very narrow path near the trench.
The Muslims who were sat close to the edge of that area had been alerted of his movement and threw stones and shot arrows at them. (Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) relates), “we also joined them and shot arrows at them
“until the idolaters were compelled to move from there and they returned to their camps. “I then went to the Holy Prophet (sa) and found him engaged in prayer. “Thereafter, I informed him of the entire incident.” Hazrat Umm Salamah (ra) relates, “After this, the Holy Prophet (sa) fell asleep
“and I could hear his breathing and he did not wake up “until Hazrat Bilal (ra) called the Azan for Fajr and the light could be seen on the horizon. “The Holy Prophet (sa) then came outside and led the Muslims in prayer.” Hazrat Umm Salamah (ra) further relates,
“May Allah the Almighty bestow His mercy upon Abbad bin Bishr “for he remained the closest to the tent of the Holy Prophet (sa) “out of all the companions and always stood guard.” Hazrat A’ishah (ra) relates that there are three companions amongst the Ansar who possess an excellence which is unmatched.
They are Hazrat Usaid bin Hudair (ra), Hazrat Sa’d bin Mu’adh (ra) and Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra). With regards to the change in the Qiblah, there is a narration and Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) is also mentioned in that.
Hazrat Tuwailah (ra) relates, “We were offering the Zuhr or Asr prayer at the Banu Harithah “and we had only read two Raka’ts (units) of prayer facing the direction of Bait al-Maqdas “when someone came and informed us “that the direction of the Qiblah had changed towards Masjid Haram (Ka’bah).”
She further relates, “We changed our positions “and the men moved towards the ladies area and vice versa.” According to another narration, the one who made this announcement was Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr bin Qaidi (ra), who belonged to the Banu Harithah tribe. However, according to another narration,
This person’s name was Abbad bin Bishr bin Wahsh who belonged to the Banu Abd al-Ash’al. On the occasion of the Treaty of Hudaibiyah, when Suhail bin Amr came to the Holy Prophet (sa) for negotiation whilst representing the Quraish of Makkah,
Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) was stood next to the Holy Prophet (sa) clad in armour and with him was another companion, Hazrat Salamah bin Aslam (ra). During the conversation, when Suhail’s voice became louder, Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) told him to lower his voice in the presence of the Holy Prophet (sa).
Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) always remained at the forefront of every battle. Once, Uyainah bin Hisn Fazari, along with a few other horse-riders from the Banu Ghatafan tribe attacked Ghabah where the Holy Prophet’s (sa) camels kept for giving milk would graze. They killed the person who had been appointed to look after them
And took his wife and the camels of the Holy Prophet (sa) with them. When this news reached Madinah, the horse-riders began to present themselves before the Holy Prophet (sa). According to the narration, after Hazrat Miqdad bin Aswad (ra),
Hazrat Abbad bin Bishr (ra) was the first person to come before the Holy Prophet (sa). This battle is known as the Battle of Qarad and its details have been mentioned in Sahih al-Bukhari. Yazid bin Abi Ubaid relates that he heard from Hazrat Salamah bin Akwa’ that he said,
“I left from Madinah to go towards Ghabah before the Adhan of the Fajr prayer. “The Holy Prophet’s (sa) camels kept for giving milk were grazing in Dhi Qarad.” He further states, “One of the sons of Abd al-Rahman bin Auf met me on the way and said,
‘they have taken the camels of the Holy Prophet (sa)’. “I asked him, ‘who has taken them?’ and he said that it was the people of Ghatafan. “Upon hearing this, I loudly exclaimed, ‘Ya Sabah’ three times “and alerted those who were in the stony terrain area of Madinah.
“I then ran ahead until I found those thieves, who were about give water to the animals. “I made them a target of my arrows and I was a very skilled archer “and whilst doing so I continued to recite the couplet that rouse one’s passion for battle
“which was as follows, ‘I am the son of Akwa’; ‘today is the day that we shall find out that who has been suckled by the wet-nurse.’ “I would continue to passionately recite these couplets “until I acquired all of those camels kept for giving milk “and also seized 30 pieces of garments.”
He further relates, “I was in this very state “when the Holy Prophet (sa) arrived along with the other people. “I submitted, ‘O Prophet (sa) of Allah! I did not allow them to drink water and they are thirsty. ‘Let us send our army towards them.’
“Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) stated, ‘O son of Akwa’, ‘you have already overcome them, thus show some leniency now.’” Hazrat Akwa’ relates, “We then returned from there “and the Holy Prophet (sa) seated me behind him on his camel and we entered Madinah.”
The next mention is of Hazrat Hatib bin Abi Balta’ah (ra). He passed away in 30 AH in Madinah at the age of 65. Hazrat Uthman (ra) led his funeral prayer. In relation to him, it is further written that Hazrat Abu Bakr (ra) sent him to Muqauqis in Egypt
And a treaty was established which both sides adhered to until the conquest of Egypt by Hazrat Amr bin al-Aas (ra). Hazrat Hatib (ra) had a very handsome physique and a light beard. His neck would always be lowered and he was of a slightly short height and his fingers were thick and strong.
Ya’qub bin Utbah relates that upon his demise, Hazrat Hatib bin Abu Balta’ah (ra) left behind 4,000 dinar and dirhams. He was a trader of wheat, etc., and he left all his inheritance in Madinah. Hazrat Jabir (ra) relates that once the servant of Hatib (ra) came to the Holy Prophet (sa)
With a complaint about Hatib (ra). The servant said, “O Messenger (sa) of Allah! Hatib will most certainly go to hell.” Upon this, the Holy Prophet (sa) said, “you have told a lie! “He shall certainly not enter hell “because he participated in the Battle of Badr and the Treaty of Hudaibiyah.”
Hazrat Sa’id bin Musayyib relates that Hazrat Umar (ra) walked past Hazrat Hatib bin Abi Balta’ah (ra) and he was selling raisins. Hazrat Umar (ra) said: “Either raise the prices or leave this market.” He further writes: “There is a narration of Hazrat Imam Shafi’i (rh) “mentioned by Muhammad bin Qasim who says:
‘Hazrat Umar (ra) once passed by Hazrat Hatib (ra) in the main market ‘who had two baskets full of raisins. ‘Hazrat Umar (ra) asked him the rate at which he was selling to which he replied: ‘two mudd (unit of measurement) for one dirham.’
‘Hazrat Umar (ra) said: ‘I have been informed about a caravan coming from Ta’if ‘that they trust your rate. ‘Either you should increase your rate, or stay at home and sell as you please.’ ‘Thus, when Hazrat Umar (ra) came home and deliberated over the matter,
‘he decided to visit Hazrat Hatib (ra) in his home and said: ‘Whatever I said to you earlier was not an order nor a decision on my part. ‘I said it for the benefit of the citizens. ‘You may sell wherever you please and at whatever rate you wish to.’”
In this regard, Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) writes: “Since the time of the Holy Prophet (sa), “the Islamic government in Madinah has had control over the prices of goods. “Hence, in one Hadith we read “that Hazrat Umar (ra) was walking through a market in Madinah
“and saw that a man named Hatib bin Abi Balta’ah (ra) “had two sacks of dried grapes. “Hazrat Umar (ra) asked about the rates to which he replied two mudd for one Dirham. “This rate was lower and cheaper than the average rate in the market,
“so Hazrat Umar (ra) ordered him to sell them at his home as it was very cheap “and would not allow him to sell at such low rates in the market, “as this would disrupt the rate of the market “and the people will begin harbouring ill-thoughts and doubts about the vendors.”
Hazrat Musleh Maud (ra) further writes: “The Islamic jurists have greatly debated about this topic. “Some have presented such narrations “where later on Hazrat Umar (ra) changed his mind on what he previously believed, “but whatever the case may be the scholars have accepted Hazrat Umar’s view “as a principal to be practiced upon
“and they have written that it is the duty of the Islamic government “to set the rates of the markets, “otherwise there will be a change in the morals and integrity of the people. “But one should always bear in mind
“that only those commodities are mentioned which are brought to the market and sold openly. “Those goods which are not brought to the market “and sold on an individual basis are not mentioned here. “Thus, with regard to those goods which are brought to the market and sold,
“the clear Islamic injunction is that the rate should be determined “in order to prevent the vendors from increasing and lowering the prices. “Furthermore, the scholars have written some narrations and Ahadith “which give support to this.” Otherwise, people compete with one another and set prices in a way that would harm others.
Therefore, there should be one set rate. In 5 AH, on the return from the Battle of Banu Mustaliq, the Holy Prophet (sa) passed by Naqi’, which was a vast plain with greenery and lots of water wells. The Holy Prophet (sa) asked about the water level in the wells,
To which the Holy Prophet (sa) was informed that whenever they praise the wells, the water level drops and water becomes scarce. Upon this the Holy Prophet (sa) ordered Hazrat Hatib bin Abi Balta’ah (ra) to dig a well. He also instructed for Naqi’ to be turned into a grazing ground
And appointed Hazrat Bilal bin Harith Muzani to oversee it. Hazrat Bilal (ra) asked: “O Messenger of Allah! “How much area ought to be designated for the pasture?” The Holy Prophet (sa) replied: “At the break of dawn, ensure a person with a loud voice “(the sound of the person travels further in the night,
“(for this reason he said after the sun has risen) “make him stand on the mount named “Mukammal”, and as far as his sound reaches, “mark that out as the pasture for the horses and camels of the Muslims “that will be used for Jihad.”
I.e. the camels and horses that the Muslims use for Jihad would graze there. Hazrat Bilal (ra) asked the Holy Prophet (sa): “O Messenger of Allah, what about the other grazing animals of the Muslims,” i.e., what his command was regarding the other animals of the Muslims.
The Holy Prophet (sa) replied: “They will not enter here. “Only the animals that will be used in Jihad will graze from here. “The rest will graze in their own areas.” Hazrat Bilal (ra) asked: “O messenger of Allah, “what about those men and women who have a small amount of sheep or goats
“but are too frail to take them anywhere?” The Holy Prophet (sa) replied: “Aside from them, they are permitted.” i.e., to permit the animals of the poor and weak to graze from there. There is a narration which has been mentioned previously as well
In which a man from the Ansar had a dispute with Hazrat Zubair (ra) regarding the stream at Harrah which was used to irrigate the date palm trees. The Ansari companion said to Hazrat Zubair (ra) to allow water to flow (towards his area) but Hazrat Zubair (ra) refused to do so.
Both of them presented the dispute before the Holy Prophet (sa) to which he said: “Zubair, water your trees and leave the rest of the water for your neighbour.” The Ansari companion was displeased with this response and said, “O Messenger of Allah (sa), you have issued this verdict only because he is your cousin.”
Upon hearing this, the expression of the blessed countenance of the Holy Prophet (sa) changed and he said to Hazrat Zubair (ra), “Control the flow of water “so it only irrigates up to the coping of your boundary.” Hazrat Zubair narrates: “By Allah, I believe that the following verse was revealed on this occasion:
‘by thy Lord, they are not believers ‘until they make thee judge in all that is in dispute between them’” This is a narration of Sahih Al-Bukhari. The Tafasir (commentaries of the Qur’an) differ with regards to the identity of the Ansari companion. Tafsir Qurtubi mentions a narration from Makki and Nuhas
That the Ansari companion was Hazrat Hatib bin Abi Balta’ah (ra). These were the companions that were to be mentioned today. There are some narrations still remaining, which will be mentioned in future, God willing. All praise is due to Allah We laud Him, we beseech help from Him and ask His protection;
We confide in Him, we trust Him alone and we seek protection against the evils and mischief of our souls and from the bad results of our deeds. Whomsoever He guides on the right path, none can misguide him; and whosoever He declares misled, none can guide him onto the right path.
And we bear witness that none deserves to be worshipped except Allah. We bear witness that Muhammad (sa) is His servant and Messenger. O servants of Allah! May Allah be merciful to you. Verily, Allah commands you to act with justice, to confer benefits upon each other
And to do good to others as one does to one’s kindred and forbids evil which pertain to your own selves and evils which affect others and prohibits revolts against a lawful authority. He warns you against being unmindful. You remember Allah; He too will remember you;
Call Him and He will make a response to your call. And verily divine remembrance is the highest virtue.