Interactive Seerah
Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Journey through the blessed life of the Final Messenger ﷺ — from his noble lineage and birth to his wisal — era by era, with Islamic dates and an AI assistant. All content is drawn from the authentic biography “Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ”.
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Lineage & Birth
Noble ancestry and the blessed birth in Makkah
The noble lineage of the Prophet ﷺ
The blessed lineage of the Prophet ﷺ from his father's side traces through Sayyiduna Abdullah, Abdul Muttalib, Hashim, Abd Manaaf, Qusay, and onward to Adnan. From his mother's side it traces through Sayyidatuna Aaminah, the daughter of Wahb, son of Abd Manaaf, son of Zuhrah. His was the most noble and superior lineage among the Quraysh.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 21
The parents of the Prophet ﷺ
His father was Sayyiduna Abdullah, matchless in appearance and character, who passed away before the blessed birth of the Prophet ﷺ at the age of 25. His mother was Sayyidatuna Aaminah, the most superior amongst the women of Quraysh in lineage and nobility; after the passing of his father, she brought up her beloved son.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 22
Blessed Childhood
The suckling years and early life
The suckling period
It was the custom of the nobles of Makkah to send their children to tribes in rural areas, so that they would eat pure food, grow strong, and learn the purest form of Arabic. For this reason the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was handed over to Sayyidatuna Haleemah Sa'diyyah, who belonged to the Banu Sa'd tribe — a branch of Banu Hawazin, second to none in eloquence.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 24
The blessing of suckling
According to some narrations, in addition to Sayyidah Haleemah, six other fortunate women had the privilege to suckle the Beloved Prophet ﷺ, and all were blessed with the treasure of faith. Sayyidah Haleemah's reward for suckling the Holy Prophet ﷺ was that her entire household was enriched with faith. Her daughter Judamah, famously known as Shayma, was his elder milk-sister who would soothe him with lullabies.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 25
Blessings appear in Haleemah’s household
When Sayyidah Haleemah took the blessed child, the blessings of Prophethood began to appear: her weak she-camel filled with milk, her household was filled with goodness, and her tribe Banu Sa'd — which had been suffering drought — found its land turning lush and green. She related that her seven goats gave so much milk that one day's milk would suffice for forty, and that her animals multiplied greatly by his blessing.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 27–29
Early signs of his noble nature
Sayyidah Haleemah related that he was never troublesome: he did not scream or cry like other children. By her account he crawled at two months, stood at three, walked with support at four, walked properly at five, spoke clearly at eight months, and spoke eloquently at nine. When other children called him to play, he would say: “I have not been created for playing.” He would accompany the shepherds to the pastures, a way of life shared by many of the prophets.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 28–30
Shaqq al-Sadr — the splitting of the chest
While in the care of Banu Sa'd, the angels split open the blessed chest of the Final Messenger ﷺ, took out his heart and washed it — an act known as Shaqq al-Sadr. The book notes this occurred four times in his blessed life: the first when he was four years old, the second at ten, the third at forty, and the fourth before the journey of Mi'raj. After this event in Banu Sa'd, Sayyidah Haleemah, concerned, returned him to his mother Sayyidatuna Aaminah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 31
The sorrowful passing of his mother at Abwa
When the Final Messenger of Allah ﷺ was six years old, his mother Sayyidatuna Aaminah took him to Madinah to visit his father's maternal family, accompanied by Umm Ayman, the maidservant of his father. Upon the return journey she passed away at Abwa — a valley between Makkah and Madinah — and was buried there. Umm Ayman consoled the child and brought him back to Makkah to his grandfather, Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 33
The sorrowful passing of his mother at Abwa
When the Final Messenger of Allah ﷺ was six years old, his mother Sayyidatuna Aaminah took him to Madinah to visit his father's maternal family, accompanied by Umm Ayman, the maidservant of his father. Upon the return journey she passed away at Abwa — a valley between Makkah and Madinah — and was buried there. Umm Ayman consoled the child and brought him back to Makkah to his grandfather, Sayyiduna Abdul Muttalib.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 33
In the care of his grandfather Abdul Muttalib
After the passing of his parents, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was raised by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, the chief of Makkah, who loved him greatly — keeping him close, feeding him himself, and seating him beside him. A special seat was placed by the Ka'bah for Abdul Muttalib that even dignitaries dared not approach, yet the young Prophet ﷺ would sit upon it without hesitation. When he was eight years old, his grandfather also passed away.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 34
In the care of his grandfather Abdul Muttalib
After the passing of his parents, the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was raised by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib, the chief of Makkah, who loved him greatly — keeping him close, feeding him himself, and seating him beside him. A special seat was placed by the Ka'bah for Abdul Muttalib that even dignitaries dared not approach, yet the young Prophet ﷺ would sit upon it without hesitation. When he was eight years old, his grandfather also passed away.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 34
Youth & Marriage
Trustworthy youth, trade, and marriage
Under the guardianship of his uncle Abu Talib
At the age of eight, his uncle Abu Talib took responsibility for his care, loving him more than his own children. Abu Talib observed that whenever the Prophet ﷺ ate or drank with his children, the food and milk would suffice for all by his blessing. He testified: “I never saw the Beloved Prophet ﷺ ever tell a lie, deceive anyone, or harm anyone; he was always of noble traits, exalted character, soft-spoken and pious.”
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 34–35
Under the guardianship of his uncle Abu Talib
At the age of eight, his uncle Abu Talib took responsibility for his care, loving him more than his own children. Abu Talib observed that whenever the Prophet ﷺ ate or drank with his children, the food and milk would suffice for all by his blessing. He testified: “I never saw the Beloved Prophet ﷺ ever tell a lie, deceive anyone, or harm anyone; he was always of noble traits, exalted character, soft-spoken and pious.”
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 34–35
Journey to Yemen at the age of ten
When the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was ten years old, he travelled to Yemen with his uncle Zubair bin Abdul Muttalib. On the way a strange event occurred: a camel that had been blocking a valley path sat down and rubbed its chest on the ground before him, and when the caravan returned to find the valley flooded, the water dried up as he entered it — leading the people to remark on the matchless sublimity of this child.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 35–36
Journey to Yemen at the age of ten
When the Beloved Prophet ﷺ was ten years old, he travelled to Yemen with his uncle Zubair bin Abdul Muttalib. On the way a strange event occurred: a camel that had been blocking a valley path sat down and rubbed its chest on the ground before him, and when the caravan returned to find the valley flooded, the water dried up as he entered it — leading the people to remark on the matchless sublimity of this child.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 35–36
First business trip to the Levant & the monk Baheera
At the age of twelve, the Prophet ﷺ made his first business trip to the Levant (Shaam) with his uncle Abu Talib. When the caravan reached Busra, a monk named Baheera (whose real name was Barjees) recognised him by the signs of prophethood, declaring that Allah would send him as a mercy for all the worlds, and warned Abu Talib to keep him safe from those who might recognise and harm him — then provided for the journey.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 36–37
First business trip to the Levant & the monk Baheera
At the age of twelve, the Prophet ﷺ made his first business trip to the Levant (Shaam) with his uncle Abu Talib. When the caravan reached Busra, a monk named Baheera (whose real name was Barjees) recognised him by the signs of prophethood, declaring that Allah would send him as a mercy for all the worlds, and warned Abu Talib to keep him safe from those who might recognise and harm him — then provided for the journey.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 36–37
Participation in Hilf-ul-Fudool (the pact of virtue)
Peace-loving Quraysh, troubled by injustice in Makkah, gathered at the house of Abdullah bin Jud'aan — at the suggestion of his uncle Zubair — and pledged to eradicate unrest, protect travellers, support the oppressed and hold the cruel to account. The Holy Prophet ﷺ took part in this pact, and even after prophethood he would express joy at it, saying he would still answer the call of an oppressed person under it.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 38–39
Participation in Hilf-ul-Fudool (the pact of virtue)
Peace-loving Quraysh, troubled by injustice in Makkah, gathered at the house of Abdullah bin Jud'aan — at the suggestion of his uncle Zubair — and pledged to eradicate unrest, protect travellers, support the oppressed and hold the cruel to account. The Holy Prophet ﷺ took part in this pact, and even after prophethood he would express joy at it, saying he would still answer the call of an oppressed person under it.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 38–39
Marriage to Sayyidatuna Khadijah
By the age of 25, the Prophet ﷺ was acclaimed everywhere as Sadiq (the truthful) and Ameen (the trustworthy). The noble and wealthy Khadijah sent him to the Levant with her trade goods, and her servant Maysarah witnessed wondrous signs — including two angels shading him. Drawn by his noble character and truthfulness, she sent a marriage proposal about three months after his return. His uncle Abu Talib delivered the khutbah and a mahr of 20 camels was fixed. She was 40 at the time; he remained with her for about 25 years and married no other woman during her life. All his children except Sayyiduna Ibrahim were born to her.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 41–44
Marriage to Sayyidatuna Khadijah
By the age of 25, the Prophet ﷺ was acclaimed everywhere as Sadiq (the truthful) and Ameen (the trustworthy). The noble and wealthy Khadijah sent him to the Levant with her trade goods, and her servant Maysarah witnessed wondrous signs — including two angels shading him. Drawn by his noble character and truthfulness, she sent a marriage proposal about three months after his return. His uncle Abu Talib delivered the khutbah and a mahr of 20 camels was fixed. She was 40 at the time; he remained with her for about 25 years and married no other woman during her life. All his children except Sayyiduna Ibrahim were born to her.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 41–44
Placing the Black Stone — his wisdom unites the Quraysh
When the Prophet ﷺ was about 35, floodwater damaged the Ka'bah and the Quraysh rebuilt it, the Prophet ﷺ himself carrying stones. When the time came to set the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone) in place, the tribes fell into bitter dispute for four days over who would have the honour. They agreed that the first person to enter the sanctuary next morning would decide — and it was the Prophet ﷺ, whom they welcomed as Al-Ameen. With great wisdom he placed the stone on his shawl and had a chief of each tribe lift it together, then set it in place with his own blessed hands, extinguishing the conflict.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 45–46
Placing the Black Stone — his wisdom unites the Quraysh
When the Prophet ﷺ was about 35, floodwater damaged the Ka'bah and the Quraysh rebuilt it, the Prophet ﷺ himself carrying stones. When the time came to set the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone) in place, the tribes fell into bitter dispute for four days over who would have the honour. They agreed that the first person to enter the sanctuary next morning would decide — and it was the Prophet ﷺ, whom they welcomed as Al-Ameen. With great wisdom he placed the stone on his shawl and had a chief of each tribe lift it together, then set it in place with his own blessed hands, extinguishing the conflict.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 45–46
Prophethood Declared
The first revelation and the call to Islam
Worship in the Cave of Hira
As he approached the age of 40, a transformation took place: the passion of Divine love drew him away from the busy life of Makkah to the Cave of Hira, a short distance from the Ka'bah on Mount Noor. He would stay alone there for many days with provisions, engrossed in the worship of Allah and in contemplation; when food ran out he would return for more, or Sayyidatuna Khadijah would send it.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 49
Worship in the Cave of Hira
As he approached the age of 40, a transformation took place: the passion of Divine love drew him away from the busy life of Makkah to the Cave of Hira, a short distance from the Ka'bah on Mount Noor. He would stay alone there for many days with provisions, engrossed in the worship of Allah and in contemplation; when food ran out he would return for more, or Sayyidatuna Khadijah would send it.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 49
The first revelation & declaration of Prophethood
Revelation began with true dreams whose meaning would come clear like the dawn. After six months in this state, in the blessed month of Ramadan, while he was in seclusion in the Cave of Hira at the age of 40, Sayyiduna Jibraeel عليه السلام — the chief of the angels — brought the first exalted message of Allah in the form of revelation. After a pause, Jibraeel appeared again between the earth and sky; overcome, the Prophet ﷺ returned home and covered himself, whereupon the verses of Surah al-Muddaththir were revealed: “O you who is enveloped in a cloak, stand up and warn…”
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 49–50
The first revelation & declaration of Prophethood
Revelation began with true dreams whose meaning would come clear like the dawn. After six months in this state, in the blessed month of Ramadan, while he was in seclusion in the Cave of Hira at the age of 40, Sayyiduna Jibraeel عليه السلام — the chief of the angels — brought the first exalted message of Allah in the form of revelation. After a pause, Jibraeel appeared again between the earth and sky; overcome, the Prophet ﷺ returned home and covered himself, whereupon the verses of Surah al-Muddaththir were revealed: “O you who is enveloped in a cloak, stand up and warn…”
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 49–50
The Makkan Years
Patience and perseverance through hardship
The first believers & secret preaching
At first the Prophet ﷺ secretly invited those he trusted. Sayyidatuna Khadijah was the first woman to embrace Islam, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr the first free man, Sayyiduna Ali bin Abu Talib the first boy, Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harithah the first freed slave, and Sayyiduna Bilal the first slave to accept it. Fortunate people rushed devotionally towards the truth, and a group of Muslims formed over three years, during which he taught and guided them at Dar al-Arqam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 51-52
The first believers & secret preaching
At first the Prophet ﷺ secretly invited those he trusted. Sayyidatuna Khadijah was the first woman to embrace Islam, Sayyiduna Abu Bakr the first free man, Sayyiduna Ali bin Abu Talib the first boy, Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harithah the first freed slave, and Sayyiduna Bilal the first slave to accept it. Fortunate people rushed devotionally towards the truth, and a group of Muslims formed over three years, during which he taught and guided them at Dar al-Arqam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 51-52
The open call from Mount Safa
After three years came the command, "And, O Beloved, warn your closest relatives." The Prophet ﷺ stood upon Mount Safa and gathered the Quraysh, asking whether they would believe him if he warned of an army hidden behind the mountain. They answered as one: "Yes — for we have always found you truthful and trustworthy." He then declared that he was warning them of the Divine torment if they did not embrace faith — beginning the open propagation of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 52-53
The open call from Mount Safa
After three years came the command, "And, O Beloved, warn your closest relatives." The Prophet ﷺ stood upon Mount Safa and gathered the Quraysh, asking whether they would believe him if he warned of an army hidden behind the mountain. They answered as one: "Yes — for we have always found you truthful and trustworthy." He then declared that he was warning them of the Divine torment if they did not embrace faith — beginning the open propagation of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 52-53
Oppression of the Prophet ﷺ and the Muslims
Once Islam was preached openly, the Prophet ﷺ faced severe cruelty: he was called a sorcerer and madman, had rubbish and animal blood thrown at his door, and was harmed while at prayer — once 'Uqbah placed camel entrails on his back during sajdah (removed by Sayyidatuna Fatima) and another time tried to strangle him with a shawl (stopped by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr). Sayyiduna Bilal was dragged and crushed under stones yet cried "Ahad, Ahad," and Sayyidatuna Sumayyah, martyred by Abu Jahl, became the first female martyr of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 56-58
Oppression of the Prophet ﷺ and the Muslims
Once Islam was preached openly, the Prophet ﷺ faced severe cruelty: he was called a sorcerer and madman, had rubbish and animal blood thrown at his door, and was harmed while at prayer — once 'Uqbah placed camel entrails on his back during sajdah (removed by Sayyidatuna Fatima) and another time tried to strangle him with a shawl (stopped by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr). Sayyiduna Bilal was dragged and crushed under stones yet cried "Ahad, Ahad," and Sayyidatuna Sumayyah, martyred by Abu Jahl, became the first female martyr of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 56-58
Migration to Abyssinia
When the disbelievers would not relent, the Prophet ﷺ permitted his devoted companions to migrate to Abyssinia, whose king Najashi was a just and soft-hearted follower of the Christian faith. In the fifth year of the declaration of Prophethood, a caravan of eleven men and four women left their homeland for Abyssinia.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 58
Migration to Abyssinia
When the disbelievers would not relent, the Prophet ﷺ permitted his devoted companions to migrate to Abyssinia, whose king Najashi was a just and soft-hearted follower of the Christian faith. In the fifth year of the declaration of Prophethood, a caravan of eleven men and four women left their homeland for Abyssinia.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 58
The siege of Shi'b Abi Talib (the boycott)
Infuriated that Islam kept spreading, the chiefs of Quraysh signed a pact — hung inside the Ka'bah — that no one would marry, trade, or even speak with Banu Hashim until they handed over the Prophet ﷺ. Except for Abu Lahab, all of Banu Hashim were besieged in the ravine of Abu Talib (Shi'b Abi Talib) for three years, enduring such hunger that they ate leaves and dried skin, while guards blocked any food from reaching them. After three years, Allah informed the Prophet ﷺ that termites had eaten the pact, leaving only the name of Allah — and when the Quraysh checked, they found it exactly so.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 61–62
The siege of Shi'b Abi Talib (the boycott)
Infuriated that Islam kept spreading, the chiefs of Quraysh signed a pact — hung inside the Ka'bah — that no one would marry, trade, or even speak with Banu Hashim until they handed over the Prophet ﷺ. Except for Abu Lahab, all of Banu Hashim were besieged in the ravine of Abu Talib (Shi'b Abi Talib) for three years, enduring such hunger that they ate leaves and dried skin, while guards blocked any food from reaching them. After three years, Allah informed the Prophet ﷺ that termites had eaten the pact, leaving only the name of Allah — and when the Quraysh checked, they found it exactly so.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 61–62
The Year of Grief — passing of Abu Talib & Khadijah
In the 10th year of the declaration of Prophethood, shortly after the siege ended, his uncle Abu Talib passed away, and not even a week later his beloved wife Sayyidatuna Khadijah also passed away. In Makkah these two had been his closest support through every hardship, and the disbelievers grew bolder after their loss. So deeply did their deaths grieve him that he ﷺ called this year 'Aam-ul-Huzn — the Year of Grief.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 62-63
The Year of Grief — passing of Abu Talib & Khadijah
In the 10th year of the declaration of Prophethood, shortly after the siege ended, his uncle Abu Talib passed away, and not even a week later his beloved wife Sayyidatuna Khadijah also passed away. In Makkah these two had been his closest support through every hardship, and the disbelievers grew bolder after their loss. So deeply did their deaths grieve him that he ﷺ called this year 'Aam-ul-Huzn — the Year of Grief.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 62-63
The journey to Ta'if
After the deaths of Khadijah and Abu Talib, the oppression intensified, so the Prophet ﷺ set out on foot to Ta'if — accompanied only by Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harithah — hoping its chiefs would accept Islam. Instead, the three chiefs ridiculed him and set the people upon him, who pelted him with stones until his blessed feet bled and filled his sandals; Zaid shielded him with his own body. He later told Sayyidatuna 'Aisha this was harder for him than the day of Uhud. When the angel of the mountains offered to crush the town between two mountains, he ﷺ refused, hoping their offspring would one day worship Allah alone.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 65-67
The journey to Ta'if
After the deaths of Khadijah and Abu Talib, the oppression intensified, so the Prophet ﷺ set out on foot to Ta'if — accompanied only by Sayyiduna Zaid bin Harithah — hoping its chiefs would accept Islam. Instead, the three chiefs ridiculed him and set the people upon him, who pelted him with stones until his blessed feet bled and filled his sandals; Zaid shielded him with his own body. He later told Sayyidatuna 'Aisha this was harder for him than the day of Uhud. When the angel of the mountains offered to crush the town between two mountains, he ﷺ refused, hoping their offspring would one day worship Allah alone.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 65-67
Jinns embrace Islam at Nakhlah
Returning from Ta'if, the Prophet ﷺ stayed at a place called Nakhlah. While he recited the Holy Quran during the Tahajjud prayer at night, a group of jinns from Nasaybayn came, listened, and embraced Islam, then returned to their people to preach — so that many groups of jinns accepted faith. Allah mentions this account in the opening verses of Surah al-Jinn.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 67-68
Jinns embrace Islam at Nakhlah
Returning from Ta'if, the Prophet ﷺ stayed at a place called Nakhlah. While he recited the Holy Quran during the Tahajjud prayer at night, a group of jinns from Nasaybayn came, listened, and embraced Islam, then returned to their people to preach — so that many groups of jinns accepted faith. Allah mentions this account in the opening verses of Surah al-Jinn.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 67-68
Islam begins to spread in Madinah
To the north of Makkah lay the city of Yathrib — later named Madinah — home to the tribes of Aus and Khazraj, alongside Jewish communities who spoke of an awaited Prophet. In the 11th year of Prophethood, at Mina during Hajj, six people of the Khazraj met the Prophet ﷺ, heard the Quran, and embraced Islam, recognising him as the Messenger the Jews had foretold. They carried Islam back to Madinah and invited their families.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 68-69
Islam begins to spread in Madinah
To the north of Makkah lay the city of Yathrib — later named Madinah — home to the tribes of Aus and Khazraj, alongside Jewish communities who spoke of an awaited Prophet. In the 11th year of Prophethood, at Mina during Hajj, six people of the Khazraj met the Prophet ﷺ, heard the Quran, and embraced Islam, recognising him as the Messenger the Jews had foretold. They carried Islam back to Madinah and invited their families.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 68-69
The First Pledge of 'Aqabah (Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Oula)
In the 12th year of Prophethood, on the occasion of Hajj, twelve people from Madinah secretly embraced Islam in the ravine of Mina and pledged allegiance to the Prophet ﷺ — known in history as Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Oula, the First Pledge of 'Aqabah. They requested a teacher, so the Prophet ﷺ sent Sayyiduna Mus'ab bin Umair to Madinah, who went house to house inviting people, and Islam began to spread widely — including the chief of Aus, Sayyiduna Sa'd bin Mu'aaz, after whom his whole tribe accepted Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 70
The First Pledge of 'Aqabah (Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Oula)
In the 12th year of Prophethood, on the occasion of Hajj, twelve people from Madinah secretly embraced Islam in the ravine of Mina and pledged allegiance to the Prophet ﷺ — known in history as Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Oula, the First Pledge of 'Aqabah. They requested a teacher, so the Prophet ﷺ sent Sayyiduna Mus'ab bin Umair to Madinah, who went house to house inviting people, and Islam began to spread widely — including the chief of Aus, Sayyiduna Sa'd bin Mu'aaz, after whom his whole tribe accepted Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 70
The Second Pledge of 'Aqabah (Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Thaniya)
After one year, in the 13th year of Prophethood at the time of Hajj, approximately seventy-two people of Madinah pledged allegiance to the Prophet ﷺ — secretly from their idol-worshipping companions — promising to protect him and Islam with their lives and wealth. This is the Second Pledge of 'Aqabah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 71
The Second Pledge of 'Aqabah (Bay'at al-'Aqabah al-Thaniya)
After one year, in the 13th year of Prophethood at the time of Hajj, approximately seventy-two people of Madinah pledged allegiance to the Prophet ﷺ — secretly from their idol-worshipping companions — promising to protect him and Islam with their lives and wealth. This is the Second Pledge of 'Aqabah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 71
The Hijrah
The blessed migration to Madinah
The Muslims begin migrating to Madinah
As many in Madinah embraced Islam, the Muslims found a new shelter, and the Prophet ﷺ gave his companions leave to migrate there. Sayyiduna Abu Salamah was the first to migrate, followed by many others. Though the disbelievers tried to stop them, the companions migrated secretly until — within a short time — only those remained in Makkah who were imprisoned, held back by poverty, or awaiting the Prophet's ﷺ own command to migrate.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 71
The Muslims begin migrating to Madinah
As many in Madinah embraced Islam, the Muslims found a new shelter, and the Prophet ﷺ gave his companions leave to migrate there. Sayyiduna Abu Salamah was the first to migrate, followed by many others. Though the disbelievers tried to stop them, the companions migrated secretly until — within a short time — only those remained in Makkah who were imprisoned, held back by poverty, or awaiting the Prophet's ﷺ own command to migrate.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 71
The Council of Disbelievers at Dar al-Nadwah
Alarmed that the people of Madinah had embraced Islam and that the Muslims were migrating there, the chiefs of Quraysh feared the Prophet ﷺ would one day return with an army. They gathered at Dar al-Nadwah, where Abu Jahl's plan was accepted: a strong young man from every tribe would strike the Prophet ﷺ together, so that Banu Hashim could not avenge a single killer and would have to accept blood money. Sayyiduna Jibraeel عليه السلام brought the command of Allah, telling him not to sleep in his bed that night and to migrate to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 73-74
The Council of Disbelievers at Dar al-Nadwah
Alarmed that the people of Madinah had embraced Islam and that the Muslims were migrating there, the chiefs of Quraysh feared the Prophet ﷺ would one day return with an army. They gathered at Dar al-Nadwah, where Abu Jahl's plan was accepted: a strong young man from every tribe would strike the Prophet ﷺ together, so that Banu Hashim could not avenge a single killer and would have to accept blood money. Sayyiduna Jibraeel عليه السلام brought the command of Allah, telling him not to sleep in his bed that night and to migrate to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 73-74
The night of migration & the Cave of Thawr
That night the disbelievers surrounded his house. The Prophet ﷺ told Sayyiduna Ali to sleep in his bed under his shawl, to return the people's entrusted belongings, and then follow him to Madinah. Taking a fistful of soil and reciting the opening verses of Surah Yaseen, he passed through the crowd unseen. He then reached the Cave of Thawr with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddeeq and stayed there three days and three nights before continuing to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 73-74
The night of migration & the Cave of Thawr
That night the disbelievers surrounded his house. The Prophet ﷺ told Sayyiduna Ali to sleep in his bed under his shawl, to return the people's entrusted belongings, and then follow him to Madinah. Taking a fistful of soil and reciting the opening verses of Surah Yaseen, he passed through the crowd unseen. He then reached the Cave of Thawr with Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddeeq and stayed there three days and three nights before continuing to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 73-74
Arrival at Quba & the founding of Masjid Quba
The people of Madinah waited daily on the outskirts to welcome him. The Prophet ﷺ arrived at Quba — three miles from Madinah — on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, and the tribe of 'Amr bin 'Auf had the honour of first hosting him, at the house of Sayyiduna Kulthoom bin Hidm. The first thing he did at Quba was to build a mosque on an empty plot used for drying dates — Masjid Quba, the first mosque of Islam, still known by that name. He stated that to offer salah in Masjid Quba is equal to an Umrah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 76-77
Arrival at Quba & the founding of Masjid Quba
The people of Madinah waited daily on the outskirts to welcome him. The Prophet ﷺ arrived at Quba — three miles from Madinah — on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, and the tribe of 'Amr bin 'Auf had the honour of first hosting him, at the house of Sayyiduna Kulthoom bin Hidm. The first thing he did at Quba was to build a mosque on an empty plot used for drying dates — Masjid Quba, the first mosque of Islam, still known by that name. He stated that to offer salah in Masjid Quba is equal to an Umrah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 76-77
The first Jumu'ah Salah & entry into Madinah
After staying at Quba for more than two weeks, the Prophet ﷺ set out for Madinah. On the way he offered the first Jumu'ah (Friday) prayer in the valley of the Bani Salim tribe, and then entered Madinah — the city that would become the heart of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 77
The first Jumu'ah Salah & entry into Madinah
After staying at Quba for more than two weeks, the Prophet ﷺ set out for Madinah. On the way he offered the first Jumu'ah (Friday) prayer in the valley of the Bani Salim tribe, and then entered Madinah — the city that would become the heart of Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 77
The Madinan Years
Building the first Islamic society
Arrival in Madinah & the home of Abu Ayyub Ansari
On entering Madinah, many Ansari companions begged him to stay in their homes, but he ﷺ said, "Wherever Allah wills, my she-camel will sit." The camel sat where Masjid an-Nabawi stands today, beside the home of Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub Ansari, who carried the Prophet's belongings into his house and had the honour of hosting him for seven months, until Masjid an-Nabawi and its rooms were ready.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 78
Arrival in Madinah & the home of Abu Ayyub Ansari
On entering Madinah, many Ansari companions begged him to stay in their homes, but he ﷺ said, "Wherever Allah wills, my she-camel will sit." The camel sat where Masjid an-Nabawi stands today, beside the home of Sayyiduna Abu Ayyub Ansari, who carried the Prophet's belongings into his house and had the honour of hosting him for seven months, until Masjid an-Nabawi and its rooms were ready.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 78
Construction of Masjid an-Nabawi
As there was no place in Madinah for congregational prayer, building a mosque was a priority. An orchard near his residence, owned by two orphan children of Banu Najjaar, was chosen; the Prophet ﷺ declined their offer to donate it and paid its price from the wealth of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddeeq. He laid the foundation with his own blessed hands, building walls of unbaked brick and a roof of date-palm leaves on date-tree pillars, carrying bricks himself alongside the companions.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 78-79
Construction of Masjid an-Nabawi
As there was no place in Madinah for congregational prayer, building a mosque was a priority. An orchard near his residence, owned by two orphan children of Banu Najjaar, was chosen; the Prophet ﷺ declined their offer to donate it and paid its price from the wealth of Sayyiduna Abu Bakr Siddeeq. He laid the foundation with his own blessed hands, building walls of unbaked brick and a roof of date-palm leaves on date-tree pillars, carrying bricks himself alongside the companions.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 78-79
The initiation of the Adhan
The call to prayer (Adhan) was initiated at Masjid an-Nabawi. Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Zaid Ansari and other companions saw the words of the Adhan in a dream; by the Prophet's ﷺ command, Abdullah bin Zaid taught those words to Sayyiduna Bilal, who began calling them out. The method of the Shar'i Adhan begun that day is still followed and will continue until the Day of Judgement.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 79-80
The initiation of the Adhan
The call to prayer (Adhan) was initiated at Masjid an-Nabawi. Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Zaid Ansari and other companions saw the words of the Adhan in a dream; by the Prophet's ﷺ command, Abdullah bin Zaid taught those words to Sayyiduna Bilal, who began calling them out. The method of the Shar'i Adhan begun that day is still followed and will continue until the Day of Judgement.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 79-80
Brotherhood between the Ansar and Muhajireen
The roughly 45 to 50 Muhajireen in Madinah were destitute, having left their families and wealth in Makkah. To resolve this, after the construction of Masjid an-Nabawi the Prophet ﷺ gathered the Ansar and Muhajireen at the home of Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik and paired each Muhajir with an Ansari as brothers. The bond became like that of real brothers — the Ansar took their Muhajir brothers home and shared half of everything they owned.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 80
Brotherhood between the Ansar and Muhajireen
The roughly 45 to 50 Muhajireen in Madinah were destitute, having left their families and wealth in Makkah. To resolve this, after the construction of Masjid an-Nabawi the Prophet ﷺ gathered the Ansar and Muhajireen at the home of Sayyiduna Anas bin Malik and paired each Muhajir with an Ansari as brothers. The bond became like that of real brothers — the Ansar took their Muhajir brothers home and shared half of everything they owned.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 80
The change of the Qiblah
After migration, the Prophet ﷺ prayed facing Bayt al-Muqaddas by Divine command. After 16 or 17 months, while he was leading the Zuhr prayer in the mosque of the Bani Salama tribe, the revelation came to turn his face towards the Masjid al-Haraam (the Ka'bah). He turned, and all those praying behind him followed. The mosque where this occurred is called Masjid al-Qiblatayn (the mosque of two qiblahs), about 2 km northwest of Madinah, and the event is called Tahweel al-Qiblah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 80-81
The change of the Qiblah
After migration, the Prophet ﷺ prayed facing Bayt al-Muqaddas by Divine command. After 16 or 17 months, while he was leading the Zuhr prayer in the mosque of the Bani Salama tribe, the revelation came to turn his face towards the Masjid al-Haraam (the Ka'bah). He turned, and all those praying behind him followed. The mosque where this occurred is called Masjid al-Qiblatayn (the mosque of two qiblahs), about 2 km northwest of Madinah, and the event is called Tahweel al-Qiblah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 80-81
The beginning of the Ghazawat (battles)
After migration the disbelievers' hostility only grew, and they incited the tribes around Madinah to attack the Muslims. So the Prophet ﷺ made peace treaties with surrounding tribes and sent small groups to watch the movements of the Quraysh, and clashes began — the battles of Islam. A battle in which the Prophet ﷺ personally participated is called a Ghazwah; one in which he did not is a Sariyyah. By Imam Bukhari's narration there were 19 Ghazawat, of which only 9 reached actual combat.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 82-83
The beginning of the Ghazawat (battles)
After migration the disbelievers' hostility only grew, and they incited the tribes around Madinah to attack the Muslims. So the Prophet ﷺ made peace treaties with surrounding tribes and sent small groups to watch the movements of the Quraysh, and clashes began — the battles of Islam. A battle in which the Prophet ﷺ personally participated is called a Ghazwah; one in which he did not is a Sariyyah. By Imam Bukhari's narration there were 19 Ghazawat, of which only 9 reached actual combat.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 82-83
The Battle of Badr
The first major battle between the Muslims and disbelievers, the Ghazwah of Badr took place near a well 113 km from Madinah. Hearing that a large Quraysh caravan was returning from the Levant, the Prophet ﷺ set out on the 12th of Ramadan, 2 AH, with little preparation — an army of 313 (about 60 Muhajirin, the rest Ansar). The Quraysh marched out with 1,000 armed troops. On Friday 17th Ramadan 2 AH (corresponding to 13 March 624 CE) the battle was joined; despite having no provisions, the companions showed great valour. Abu Jahl was killed, along with seventy disbelievers, and seventy were taken captive. The Muslims' victory greatly raised their honour and dignity.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 84-88
The Battle of Badr
The first major battle between the Muslims and disbelievers, the Ghazwah of Badr took place near a well 113 km from Madinah. Hearing that a large Quraysh caravan was returning from the Levant, the Prophet ﷺ set out on the 12th of Ramadan, 2 AH, with little preparation — an army of 313 (about 60 Muhajirin, the rest Ansar). The Quraysh marched out with 1,000 armed troops. On Friday 17th Ramadan 2 AH (corresponding to 13 March 624 CE) the battle was joined; despite having no provisions, the companions showed great valour. Abu Jahl was killed, along with seventy disbelievers, and seventy were taken captive. The Muslims' victory greatly raised their honour and dignity.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 84-88
The martyrs of Badr & the captives
Fourteen Muslims were martyred at Badr — six Muhajirin and eight Ansar; thirteen were buried in the field of Badr, while Sayyiduna Ubaydah bin Harith passed away on the way and was buried at Safra. The companions of Badr hold a special rank: the Prophet ﷺ related that Allah told the people of Badr, "Do whatever you like now — Paradise has become wajib for you," or, "I have forgiven you." The captives were distributed among the companions to be treated well while their fate was decided.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 89
The martyrs of Badr & the captives
Fourteen Muslims were martyred at Badr — six Muhajirin and eight Ansar; thirteen were buried in the field of Badr, while Sayyiduna Ubaydah bin Harith passed away on the way and was buried at Safra. The companions of Badr hold a special rank: the Prophet ﷺ related that Allah told the people of Badr, "Do whatever you like now — Paradise has become wajib for you," or, "I have forgiven you." The captives were distributed among the companions to be treated well while their fate was decided.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 89
The Battle of Uhud
A year after Badr, the Quraysh came to avenge their defeat. The Prophet ﷺ set out from Madinah on Friday 14th Shawwal with 1,000 men, but the hypocrite Abdullah bin Ubayy withdrew with 300, leaving 700. The battle took place at the foot of Mount Uhud (about 5 km from Masjid an-Nabawi) on 17th Shawwal, 3 AH (23 March 625 CE). The Prophet ﷺ posted 50 archers to guard a narrow mountain pass with strict orders not to leave. The Muslims were winning until most archers left their post to gather spoils; Khalid bin Waleed — not yet a Muslim — attacked through the unguarded pass, turning the battle. Seventy companions were martyred (4 Muhajirin, 66 Ansar) and buried at the foot of Uhud; the Prophet's ﷺ own blessed face and tooth were injured.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 91-93
The Battle of Uhud
A year after Badr, the Quraysh came to avenge their defeat. The Prophet ﷺ set out from Madinah on Friday 14th Shawwal with 1,000 men, but the hypocrite Abdullah bin Ubayy withdrew with 300, leaving 700. The battle took place at the foot of Mount Uhud (about 5 km from Masjid an-Nabawi) on 17th Shawwal, 3 AH (23 March 625 CE). The Prophet ﷺ posted 50 archers to guard a narrow mountain pass with strict orders not to leave. The Muslims were winning until most archers left their post to gather spoils; Khalid bin Waleed — not yet a Muslim — attacked through the unguarded pass, turning the battle. Seventy companions were martyred (4 Muhajirin, 66 Ansar) and buried at the foot of Uhud; the Prophet's ﷺ own blessed face and tooth were injured.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 91-93
The incidents of Raji' and Bir Ma'una
In the 4th year of migration, the tribe of 'Adal Waqarah asked for teachers, so the Prophet ﷺ sent ten companions; at Raji' the disbelievers deceitfully martyred eight and sold the other two in Makkah. In Safar of 4 AH came the tragedy of Bir Ma'una: at the request of Amir bin Maalik, seventy companions were sent to teach, and were treacherously martyred there.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 94
The incidents of Raji' and Bir Ma'una
In the 4th year of migration, the tribe of 'Adal Waqarah asked for teachers, so the Prophet ﷺ sent ten companions; at Raji' the disbelievers deceitfully martyred eight and sold the other two in Makkah. In Safar of 4 AH came the tragedy of Bir Ma'una: at the request of Amir bin Maalik, seventy companions were sent to teach, and were treacherously martyred there.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 94
The expulsion of Banu Nadeer
When the Jewish tribe of Banu Nadeer broke their agreement by plotting against the Prophet ﷺ, he asked them to leave Madinah within ten days. They refused, so he besieged their fort for fifteen days. Finally they agreed to leave, loading their belongings onto six hundred camels; all of Banu Nadeer departed except two who embraced Islam, some settling in Khaybar and others in the Levant.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 95-96
The expulsion of Banu Nadeer
When the Jewish tribe of Banu Nadeer broke their agreement by plotting against the Prophet ﷺ, he asked them to leave Madinah within ten days. They refused, so he besieged their fort for fifteen days. Finally they agreed to leave, loading their belongings onto six hundred camels; all of Banu Nadeer departed except two who embraced Islam, some settling in Khaybar and others in the Levant.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 95-96
The Battle of Banu Mustaliq & the Incident of Ifk
In Sha'ban of 5 AH, when the chief of Banu Mustaliq (a branch of Khaza'ah, 261 km from Madinah) intended to invade Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ marched against them; their chief fled, ten disbelievers were killed, and war-spoils and captives were taken — among them Juwayriyah bint Harith, whom he married, leading the Muslims to free all the captives. Returning from this campaign, Sayyidatuna 'Aisha was inadvertently left behind and later rejoined the army; the hypocrites spread a false accusation against her (the Incident of Ifk), and Allah declared her chastity and their lie in verses 11-20 of Surah al-Noor.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 96-97
The Battle of Banu Mustaliq & the Incident of Ifk
In Sha'ban of 5 AH, when the chief of Banu Mustaliq (a branch of Khaza'ah, 261 km from Madinah) intended to invade Madinah, the Prophet ﷺ marched against them; their chief fled, ten disbelievers were killed, and war-spoils and captives were taken — among them Juwayriyah bint Harith, whom he married, leading the Muslims to free all the captives. Returning from this campaign, Sayyidatuna 'Aisha was inadvertently left behind and later rejoined the army; the hypocrites spread a false accusation against her (the Incident of Ifk), and Allah declared her chastity and their lie in verses 11-20 of Surah al-Noor.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 96-97
The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq / al-Ahzaab)
In 5 AH, the expelled Jews of Banu Nadeer in Khaybar incited the tribes of Arabia into a confederation of 10,000 against the Muslims — hence it is called Ghazwah al-Ahzaab, the Battle of all the Confederates. On the advice of Sayyiduna Salman Farsi, a defensive trench (khandaq) was dug on the one open side of Madinah. Starting on 8 Zul-Qa'dah 5 AH, the Prophet ﷺ and 3,000 companions dug it in about twenty days — 300 metres long, 9 wide and 5 deep. The astonished confederates besieged Madinah for about a month, enduring great hardship, until Allah sent a fierce hurricane that overturned their camp and forced them to flee. Six Muslims were martyred.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 97-98
The Battle of the Trench (Khandaq / al-Ahzaab)
In 5 AH, the expelled Jews of Banu Nadeer in Khaybar incited the tribes of Arabia into a confederation of 10,000 against the Muslims — hence it is called Ghazwah al-Ahzaab, the Battle of all the Confederates. On the advice of Sayyiduna Salman Farsi, a defensive trench (khandaq) was dug on the one open side of Madinah. Starting on 8 Zul-Qa'dah 5 AH, the Prophet ﷺ and 3,000 companions dug it in about twenty days — 300 metres long, 9 wide and 5 deep. The astonished confederates besieged Madinah for about a month, enduring great hardship, until Allah sent a fierce hurricane that overturned their camp and forced them to flee. Six Muslims were martyred.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 97-98
The Battle of Banu Quraydhah
During the Battle of the Trench, the Jewish tribe of Banu Quraydhah broke their pact and aided the disbelievers. Immediately after the Trench, the Prophet ﷺ marched against them; after a siege of twenty-five days they surrendered, agreeing to accept the verdict of Sayyiduna Sa'd bin Mu'aaz, whom they themselves chose as arbiter. His judgement — in accordance with their own religious law — was carried out.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 99
The Battle of Banu Quraydhah
During the Battle of the Trench, the Jewish tribe of Banu Quraydhah broke their pact and aided the disbelievers. Immediately after the Trench, the Prophet ﷺ marched against them; after a siege of twenty-five days they surrendered, agreeing to accept the verdict of Sayyiduna Sa'd bin Mu'aaz, whom they themselves chose as arbiter. His judgement — in accordance with their own religious law — was carried out.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 99
The intention of Umrah & the miracle at Hudaybiyah
In Zul-Qa'dah of the 6th year of migration, the Prophet ﷺ set out for Makkah in the Ihram of Umrah with 1,400 companions. The Quraysh resolved to stop them, so the Muslims took an unusual path and camped at Hudaybiyah (about 24 km from Makkah). There was a dire shortage of water; when the companions grew thirsty, he ﷺ placed his blessed hand in a bowl and water gushed from his fingers, and after he poured his wudu water with an arrow into the dry well, so much water flowed that the whole army and their animals drank for days.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 99-100
The intention of Umrah & the miracle at Hudaybiyah
In Zul-Qa'dah of the 6th year of migration, the Prophet ﷺ set out for Makkah in the Ihram of Umrah with 1,400 companions. The Quraysh resolved to stop them, so the Muslims took an unusual path and camped at Hudaybiyah (about 24 km from Makkah). There was a dire shortage of water; when the companions grew thirsty, he ﷺ placed his blessed hand in a bowl and water gushed from his fingers, and after he poured his wudu water with an arrow into the dry well, so much water flowed that the whole army and their animals drank for days.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 99-100
Bay'ah al-Ridwan (the pledge under the tree)
From Hudaybiyah, the Prophet ﷺ sent Sayyiduna Uthman al-Ghani to Makkah for peace talks. When a rumour spread that Uthman had been martyred, the Prophet ﷺ declared it a duty to avenge his blood, and sitting under a tree he took a pledge from the companions to remain loyal until their last breath. This is the famed Bay'ah al-Ridwan, mentioned in Surah al-Ma'idah and Surah al-Fath. The news of Uthman's martyrdom then proved to be a false rumour — he was alive and well.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 101-102
Bay'ah al-Ridwan (the pledge under the tree)
From Hudaybiyah, the Prophet ﷺ sent Sayyiduna Uthman al-Ghani to Makkah for peace talks. When a rumour spread that Uthman had been martyred, the Prophet ﷺ declared it a duty to avenge his blood, and sitting under a tree he took a pledge from the companions to remain loyal until their last breath. This is the famed Bay'ah al-Ridwan, mentioned in Surah al-Ma'idah and Surah al-Fath. The news of Uthman's martyrdom then proved to be a false rumour — he was alive and well.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 101-102
The Treaty of Hudaybiyah
The Quraysh sent Suhail bin 'Amr to set the terms of a peace treaty. Its conditions included: the Muslims would return without Umrah that year but could come the next year and stay three days; no fighting for ten years; Arab tribes could ally with whichever side they wished; and any Muslim from Makkah who came to Madinah would be returned. Though it outwardly seemed against the Muslims, the Quran calls this treaty 'Fath Mubeen' — a clear victory — and the events that followed proved it a key to later triumphs.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 102-103
The Treaty of Hudaybiyah
The Quraysh sent Suhail bin 'Amr to set the terms of a peace treaty. Its conditions included: the Muslims would return without Umrah that year but could come the next year and stay three days; no fighting for ten years; Arab tribes could ally with whichever side they wished; and any Muslim from Makkah who came to Madinah would be returned. Though it outwardly seemed against the Muslims, the Quran calls this treaty 'Fath Mubeen' — a clear victory — and the events that followed proved it a key to later triumphs.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 102-103
Letters inviting the kings to Islam
After Hudaybiyah brought peace, the Prophet ﷺ — the Messenger for all the worlds — sent letters through envoys inviting rulers to Islam: Heraclius (Caesar of Rome), who acknowledged its truth but did not accept; Kisra (Khusro) of Persia, who tore the letter; Najashi of Abyssinia, who embraced Islam; and Muqawqas of Egypt, who honoured the letter and sent gifts. Letters also went to the rulers of Bahrain, Oman, Yamamah, Damascus and others — some accepting, others whose refusal led later to battles such as Mu'tah and Tabuk.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 105-107
Letters inviting the kings to Islam
After Hudaybiyah brought peace, the Prophet ﷺ — the Messenger for all the worlds — sent letters through envoys inviting rulers to Islam: Heraclius (Caesar of Rome), who acknowledged its truth but did not accept; Kisra (Khusro) of Persia, who tore the letter; Najashi of Abyssinia, who embraced Islam; and Muqawqas of Egypt, who honoured the letter and sent gifts. Letters also went to the rulers of Bahrain, Oman, Yamamah, Damascus and others — some accepting, others whose refusal led later to battles such as Mu'tah and Tabuk.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 105-107
The Battle of Khaybar
Khaybar, 153 km north of Madinah, was the great stronghold of the Jews of Arabia — rich, well-armed, and a centre of conspiracy since they had helped rouse the confederates at the Trench. When their renewed plotting became known, the Prophet ﷺ marched with 1,600 companions in Muharram (by one opinion 7 AH). Entering after Fajr, the forts were gradually taken; the greatest, Qamoos, was conquered by Sayyiduna Ali. Ninety-three of the enemy were killed and fifteen companions were martyred. The Jews were allowed to keep their land in exchange for half the produce, which Abdullah bin Rawahah divided so justly that they said, "By this justice the heavens and earth endure."
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 106-108
The Battle of Khaybar
Khaybar, 153 km north of Madinah, was the great stronghold of the Jews of Arabia — rich, well-armed, and a centre of conspiracy since they had helped rouse the confederates at the Trench. When their renewed plotting became known, the Prophet ﷺ marched with 1,600 companions in Muharram (by one opinion 7 AH). Entering after Fajr, the forts were gradually taken; the greatest, Qamoos, was conquered by Sayyiduna Ali. Ninety-three of the enemy were killed and fifteen companions were martyred. The Jews were allowed to keep their land in exchange for half the produce, which Abdullah bin Rawahah divided so justly that they said, "By this justice the heavens and earth endure."
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 106-108
The Qada Umrah
Under the terms of Hudaybiyah, the Muslims could perform Umrah the following year and stay in Makkah three days. So in Zul-Qa'dah of 7 AH, the Prophet ﷺ announced that all who had been at Hudaybiyah should come, and set out for Makkah with two thousand Muslims and sixty sacrificial camels to perform the 'compensatory' Umrah (Umrah al-Qada).
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 109
The Qada Umrah
Under the terms of Hudaybiyah, the Muslims could perform Umrah the following year and stay in Makkah three days. So in Zul-Qa'dah of 7 AH, the Prophet ﷺ announced that all who had been at Hudaybiyah should come, and set out for Makkah with two thousand Muslims and sixty sacrificial camels to perform the 'compensatory' Umrah (Umrah al-Qada).
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 109
The Battle of Mu'tah
At Mu'tah (in modern-day Jordan, over 1,000 km from Madinah — the farthest the Muslims had gone for battle), an army of just 3,000 faced a force of around 200,000 Romans and Christian Arabs. The Prophet ﷺ had appointed Sayyiduna Zaid as commander, then Ja'far bin Abu Talib, then Abdullah bin Rawahah if each fell. All three were martyred in turn, the Prophet ﷺ describing the events from Madinah as they happened. Sayyiduna Khalid bin Waleed then took the flag and, with brilliant skill (nine swords broke in his hand), withdrew the army safely — with only twelve companions martyred against that vast host.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 111-112
The Battle of Mu'tah
At Mu'tah (in modern-day Jordan, over 1,000 km from Madinah — the farthest the Muslims had gone for battle), an army of just 3,000 faced a force of around 200,000 Romans and Christian Arabs. The Prophet ﷺ had appointed Sayyiduna Zaid as commander, then Ja'far bin Abu Talib, then Abdullah bin Rawahah if each fell. All three were martyred in turn, the Prophet ﷺ describing the events from Madinah as they happened. Sayyiduna Khalid bin Waleed then took the flag and, with brilliant skill (nine swords broke in his hand), withdrew the army safely — with only twelve companions martyred against that vast host.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 111-112
The Conquest of Makkah
When the Quraysh broke the treaty by helping Banu Bakr attack the Muslims' ally Banu Khaza'ah — even within the sanctuary — the Prophet ﷺ set out on the 10th of Ramadan, 8 AH, with about 10,000 warriors, growing to 12,000 on the way. He proclaimed a general amnesty: safe is whoever surrenders, shuts his door, enters the Ka'bah, or enters the house of Abu Sufyan. Makkah was taken almost without bloodshed. Entering in deep humility — his head lowered to his camel's saddle, reciting Surah al-Fath — he performed Tawaf, and had all the idols removed from the Ka'bah, restoring it to the worship of Allah alone.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 113-116
The Conquest of Makkah
When the Quraysh broke the treaty by helping Banu Bakr attack the Muslims' ally Banu Khaza'ah — even within the sanctuary — the Prophet ﷺ set out on the 10th of Ramadan, 8 AH, with about 10,000 warriors, growing to 12,000 on the way. He proclaimed a general amnesty: safe is whoever surrenders, shuts his door, enters the Ka'bah, or enters the house of Abu Sufyan. Makkah was taken almost without bloodshed. Entering in deep humility — his head lowered to his camel's saddle, reciting Surah al-Fath — he performed Tawaf, and had all the idols removed from the Ka'bah, restoring it to the worship of Allah alone.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 113-116
The general amnesty at Makkah
Standing before the very people who had persecuted him — who had thrown thorns and impurities on him, tried to assassinate him, and driven him from his city — the Prophet ﷺ took no revenge. In his merciful tone he declared, "Today there is no blame on you. Go! You all are free." Treating his former enemies with such mercy after victory is an example without parallel. He forbade fighting in the sanctuary forever, and by his good treatment vast numbers embraced Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 117
The general amnesty at Makkah
Standing before the very people who had persecuted him — who had thrown thorns and impurities on him, tried to assassinate him, and driven him from his city — the Prophet ﷺ took no revenge. In his merciful tone he declared, "Today there is no blame on you. Go! You all are free." Treating his former enemies with such mercy after victory is an example without parallel. He forbade fighting in the sanctuary forever, and by his good treatment vast numbers embraced Islam.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 117
The Battle of Hunayn & the siege of Ta'if
After the conquest, the Hawazin tribe and others gathered to attack. The Prophet ﷺ set out with 12,000 soldiers to the valley of Hunayn (about 29 km from Makkah). The enemy's ambush caused initial panic, but the Muslims rallied and prevailed, capturing many prisoners and great spoils. He then besieged the fort of Ta'if for over two weeks; ending the siege, he prayed, "O Allah, guide the people of Thaqeef" — and by his du'a the people of Ta'if became Muslim in 9 AH, after which all the prisoners of Hunayn were released.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 118-119
The Battle of Hunayn & the siege of Ta'if
After the conquest, the Hawazin tribe and others gathered to attack. The Prophet ﷺ set out with 12,000 soldiers to the valley of Hunayn (about 29 km from Makkah). The enemy's ambush caused initial panic, but the Muslims rallied and prevailed, capturing many prisoners and great spoils. He then besieged the fort of Ta'if for over two weeks; ending the siege, he prayed, "O Allah, guide the people of Thaqeef" — and by his du'a the people of Ta'if became Muslim in 9 AH, after which all the prisoners of Hunayn were released.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 118-119
The Battle of Tabuk
In Rajab of 9 AH the Battle of Tabuk took place at a site between Madinah and the Levant, 552 km from Madinah. Setting out in severe heat with insufficient provisions, the army was called Jaysh al-Usra (the army of hardship). This was the last battle in which the Prophet ﷺ participated physically; Masjid at-Taubah at Tabuk marks the place the Muslim army camped.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 119-120
The Battle of Tabuk
In Rajab of 9 AH the Battle of Tabuk took place at a site between Madinah and the Levant, 552 km from Madinah. Setting out in severe heat with insufficient provisions, the army was called Jaysh al-Usra (the army of hardship). This was the last battle in which the Prophet ﷺ participated physically; Masjid at-Taubah at Tabuk marks the place the Muslim army camped.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 119-120
The Year of Delegations (Aam al-Wufood)
After the conquest of Makkah removed the obstacle of Quraysh's pressure, tribes came from across Arabia to embrace Islam — so many delegations arrived in 9 AH that it is called Sanat al-Wufood, the Year of Delegations (by one account about sixty delegations). The Prophet ﷺ would welcome each in fine clothes, seated against a pillar in Masjid an-Nabawi, converse warmly, teach them the faith, host them generously and give gifts. That same year, on the Hajj led by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr, it was proclaimed that no polytheist could thereafter enter the Ka'bah or perform Tawaf naked.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 121-122
The Year of Delegations (Aam al-Wufood)
After the conquest of Makkah removed the obstacle of Quraysh's pressure, tribes came from across Arabia to embrace Islam — so many delegations arrived in 9 AH that it is called Sanat al-Wufood, the Year of Delegations (by one account about sixty delegations). The Prophet ﷺ would welcome each in fine clothes, seated against a pillar in Masjid an-Nabawi, converse warmly, teach them the faith, host them generously and give gifts. That same year, on the Hajj led by Sayyiduna Abu Bakr, it was proclaimed that no polytheist could thereafter enter the Ka'bah or perform Tawaf naked.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 121-122
Farewell & Wisal
The Farewell Pilgrimage and the final return
The Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat al-Wada)
The most important event of the 10th year of migration was the Farewell Hajj, the only and last Hajj of the Prophet ﷺ. In Zul-Qa'dah he announced he would perform Hajj, and approximately 124,000 devotees gathered. He set out from Madinah on the last Thursday of Zul-Qa'dah, donned ihram at Zul-Hulayfah (the meeqat of Madinah), and entered Makkah on the 4th of Zul-Hijjah. He performed Tawaf and Sa'i, went to Mina on the 8th, and to Arafat on the 9th of Zul-Hijjah, where — mounted on his she-camel Qaswa after the sun passed the meridian — he delivered his famous sermon. Hinting at his approaching departure, he had said near the Jamarat, "Learn the rulings of Hajj from me — perhaps I will not perform another Hajj after this."
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 125-126
The Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat al-Wada)
The most important event of the 10th year of migration was the Farewell Hajj, the only and last Hajj of the Prophet ﷺ. In Zul-Qa'dah he announced he would perform Hajj, and approximately 124,000 devotees gathered. He set out from Madinah on the last Thursday of Zul-Qa'dah, donned ihram at Zul-Hulayfah (the meeqat of Madinah), and entered Makkah on the 4th of Zul-Hijjah. He performed Tawaf and Sa'i, went to Mina on the 8th, and to Arafat on the 9th of Zul-Hijjah, where — mounted on his she-camel Qaswa after the sun passed the meridian — he delivered his famous sermon. Hinting at his approaching departure, he had said near the Jamarat, "Learn the rulings of Hajj from me — perhaps I will not perform another Hajj after this."
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 125-126
The Farewell Sermon
In the sermon at Arafat the Prophet ﷺ abrogated the evil customs of ignorance and proclaimed timeless principles: your Lord is One and your father Adam is one — no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor white to black, except by piety; all claims of revenge, blood and interest of the age of ignorance are abolished; every Muslim is a brother to another; life and wealth are sacred and inviolable; and treat women well. He then asked, "When Allah asks you about me, what will you say?" The companions answered that he had conveyed the message and fulfilled the right of Prophethood — and raising his finger to the sky he said three times, "O Allah! Be my witness." During this Hajj came the Divine confirmation that the religion had been completed. He sacrificed camels, had Sayyiduna Ali slaughter the rest, distributed his blessed hair, and returned to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 126-128
The Farewell Sermon
In the sermon at Arafat the Prophet ﷺ abrogated the evil customs of ignorance and proclaimed timeless principles: your Lord is One and your father Adam is one — no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, nor white to black, except by piety; all claims of revenge, blood and interest of the age of ignorance are abolished; every Muslim is a brother to another; life and wealth are sacred and inviolable; and treat women well. He then asked, "When Allah asks you about me, what will you say?" The companions answered that he had conveyed the message and fulfilled the right of Prophethood — and raising his finger to the sky he said three times, "O Allah! Be my witness." During this Hajj came the Divine confirmation that the religion had been completed. He sacrificed camels, had Sayyiduna Ali slaughter the rest, distributed his blessed hair, and returned to Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 126-128
The final illness
In the 11th year of migration, on the 20th or 22nd of Safar, the Prophet ﷺ went to Jannat al-Baqi at midnight, and upon returning began to feel unwell, his health declining over the following days. With the permission of all his blessed wives, he stayed in the room of Sayyidatuna 'Aisha. Feeling very weak, he ordered Sayyiduna Abu Bakr to lead the prayers — and Abu Bakr led seventeen prayers during this time. Shortly before his passing, he performed miswak with a fresh stick that 'Aisha softened for him.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 129
The final illness
In the 11th year of migration, on the 20th or 22nd of Safar, the Prophet ﷺ went to Jannat al-Baqi at midnight, and upon returning began to feel unwell, his health declining over the following days. With the permission of all his blessed wives, he stayed in the room of Sayyidatuna 'Aisha. Feeling very weak, he ordered Sayyiduna Abu Bakr to lead the prayers — and Abu Bakr led seventeen prayers during this time. Shortly before his passing, he performed miswak with a fresh stick that 'Aisha softened for him.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, p. 129
The blessed passing (Wisal) of the Prophet ﷺ
The Beloved Prophet ﷺ veiled from this world on a Monday in Rabi' al-Awwal — by the famous opinion the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, in the 11th year of migration. His passing was a tremendous shock to the companions. By his will, his funeral rites were performed by his family; the companions offered funeral prayers individually, group after group, with no one leading. On the guidance that a prophet is buried where he passes away, his grave was prepared at that very place — the room of Sayyidah 'Aisha — and he was laid to rest there, the resting place now within Masjid an-Nabawi beneath the Green Dome, the most visited and beloved site in Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 129-130
The blessed passing (Wisal) of the Prophet ﷺ
The Beloved Prophet ﷺ veiled from this world on a Monday in Rabi' al-Awwal — by the famous opinion the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, in the 11th year of migration. His passing was a tremendous shock to the companions. By his will, his funeral rites were performed by his family; the companions offered funeral prayers individually, group after group, with no one leading. On the guidance that a prophet is buried where he passes away, his grave was prepared at that very place — the room of Sayyidah 'Aisha — and he was laid to rest there, the resting place now within Masjid an-Nabawi beneath the Green Dome, the most visited and beloved site in Madinah.
— Life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pp. 129-130