5(a) Write about the lives of the Prophet’s uncles: Hamza ibn Abd al Muttalib

and Abu Talib.

Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib was an uncle and foster-brother of the Holy Prophet (Pbuh),
being only two years older than him. The Holy Prophet (Pbuh) is reported to have said,
“Hamza is my brother by reason of fosterage.” Hamza, a warrior, sportsman, and enthusiast
of wrestling and hunting, showed little interest in the affairs of Makkah.During a return from
a hunt, he learned that Abu Jahl had abused and mistreated the Holy Prophet (Pbuh).
Enraged, Hamza sought out Abu Jahl, striking him with his bow and boldly declaring, “You
abused MUHAMMAD (PBUH), I too follow his religion. Hit me back if you can.” Subsequently,
Hamza embraced Islam, providing significant strength to the Muslim community, enabling
them to pray in public.After migrating to Madinah in 2 AH, Hamza was appointed as a
commander of 30 men to monitor the caravan of non-believers from Makkah. In the Battle of
Badr, he demonstrated his martial prowess by engaging in a dual and killing leading figures
of the Quraysh, including Hind's father, Utbah. However, Hind vowed revenge and hired
Washi to assassinate Hamza, which tragically occurred in the Battle of Uhud.Hinda, seeking
vengeance, mutilated Hamza's body and even attempted to chew his liver, creating a
gruesome necklace from his organs. Hamza was posthumously bestowed with the title
"chief of Martyrs," and the Holy Prophet (Pbuh) led his funeral prayer. He was also renowned
as the "Lion of Allah."
Abu Talib, the brother of the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) father, emerged as a pivotal figure in the
early life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). As the leader of the Banu Hashim clan, he
assumed the role of guardian for the Prophet (PBUH) after the passing of his grandfather,
Abd al-Muttalib.Abu Talib's affection for the Prophet (PBUH) knew no bounds, treating him
like his own son and demonstrating a preference for Muhammad (PBUH) over his own
children. This love was evident in the daily life, as Abu Talib made the Prophet (PBUH) sleep
in his bed and eat by his side. The bond strengthened further during trade journeys, where
Abu Talib took the young Muhammad (PBUH) along.During one such journey to Syria, a
monk named Bahira recognized the signs of prophethood in the young Muhammad (PBUH)
and foretold that he would be the final prophet. Responding to this revelation, Abu Talib
promptly sold his goods and returned to Makkah.Abu Talib played a crucial role in significant
events, such as the proposal of Khadija to the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He delivered the sermon
of the Nikkah, showcasing his support and involvement in the Prophet's personal life.
Additionally, when Khadija proposed to the Holy Prophet (PBUH), Abu Talib provided the
sermon for the Nikkah.Despite not embracing Islam openly, Abu Talib pledged to protect the
Prophet (PBUH), shielding him from severe persecution. When pressured by the Quraysh to
withdraw his protection or halt the Prophet's preaching, Abu Talib stood firm, declaring that
he would not abandon his nephew's mission, even if faced with insurmountable
challenges.During the boycott on the Prophet (PBUH) and his family, Abu Talib faced the
difficulties with the Prophet (PBUH) in the valley of Abu Talib (Shib i Abi Talib). Abu Talib's
unwavering support persisted until his death in the 9th year of prophethood. The Prophet
(PBUH) mourned deeply, referring to that year as the "year of grief," as he lost not only a
beloved uncle but also a steadfast protector and supporter in the face of adversity.