A Different Approach to

ISLAMIYAT[2058]
with

UMAR KHAN

Booklet 1.3
- First Islamic Community
 Booklet 1.3: The First Islamic Community
Wives of Prophet (PBUH) (Mothers of Faithful)
01 Khadija (RA)
02 Sawdah (RA)
03 Ayesha (RA)
04 Hafsah (RA)
05 Zainab bint e Khuzaimah (RA)
06 Umm-e-Salma (RA)
07 Zainab bint e Jahsh (RA)
08 Javeria (RA)
09 Umm-e-Habibah (RA)
10 Safiyah (RA)
11 Maimoonah (RA)
12 Rehanah (RA)
13 Maria Qibtia (RA)
Daughters of Prophet (PBUH)
01 Zainab (RA)
02 Ruqayyah (RA)
03 Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA)
04 Fatimah (RA)
Grand Children of Prophet (PBUH)
02 Umamah (RA)
03 Hasan (RA)
04 Hussain (RA)
05 Incident of Karbala.
12 Imams
Scribes of Divine Revelation
07 Scribes’ work and its significance.
08 Zaid bin Thabit (RA)
09 Abdullah bin Masood (RA)
Ten Blessed Companions
11 Abu Bakr Siddique (RA)
12 Umar bin Khattab (RA)
13 Uthman bin Affan (RA)
14 Ali bin Abu Talib (RA)
15 Talha bin Ubaidullah (RA)
16 Zubair bin Awwam (RA)
17 Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah (RA)
18 Abdul Rahman bin Auf (RA)
19 Saad bin Abi Waqas (RA)
Saeed bin Zaid (RA)
Important Companions
19 Abu Hurairah (RA)
20 Hamza (RA)
21 Bilal bin Abi Rabah (RA)
22 Abu Sufyan
 CAIE Syllabus Outline:
 Candidates should study:
 The Prophet’s Wives (Mothers of Faithful)
 His descendants, including his Children, Grandchildren and the Direct Line recognized among Shi‘a
Muslims as Imams
 His leading Companions, including the Ten Blessed Companions, his Scribes, the Major Characters who
surrounded him in his ministry, the Emigrants and Helpers, and the four Rightly Guided Caliphs during
his lifetime.
 Note that the period of the Rightly Guided Caliphs’ rules after the time of the Prophet (PBUH) is
included in the Syllabus under Paper 2.)
 Candidates should know the names of the main characters that lived with and near the Prophet
(PBUH), and the significant facts of their lives. They should also be able to explain the importance of
their actions and experiences in the history and beliefs of Islam.
 In the examination, there will be either one or two questions on this topic.
 Wives of Prophet (PBUH) (Mothers of Faithful)
Q (a) Explain the importance of:
(i) Khadija (RA) during the lifetime of Prophet (PBUH).
(ii) Ayesha (RA) in the years following Prophet’s (PBUH) demise. [10][N/2002][J/2007]
Q (a) Write about the lives of any two of the following wives of Prophet (PBUH):
Sawdah bint Zam’a (RA), Ayesha (RA), Hafsa (RA) and Umm-e-Salmah (RA) [10][N/2012]
Q (a) Write about the life of the Prophet (PBUH) wife Khadija (RA). [10][J/2014]
Q (a) Write about the lives of two of the Prophet (PBUH) wives whom he married after the death of
Khadija (RA). [10][N/2015]
Q (a) Khadija bint Khuwaylid was the Prophet’s first wife. Write an account of her life in the period she
knew the Prophet. [10][N/2017]
1. Khadija bint-e-Khuwailid
 Khadija was born in 556 AD in the house of one of the wealthiest men of Makkah named Khuwailid bin Asad.
 Her father was killed in battle of Fujar, leaving behind an immense amount of money. When Khadija got her share
in inheritance, she became one of the wealthiest and influential ladies of Makkah.
 She married twice. 1st with Abu Hala, they had two children Hala and Hind. Abu Hala passed away after few years.
 After some time, she married to Atiq having a daughter named Hinda, but soon both got separated.
 She was a business woman but could not go with trade caravans on months long journeys. She had to hire people
to take care of her caravans but she was not satisfied with most people.
 When she heard about Prophet’s (PBUH) honesty and dedication, she hired him to go with her trade caravan to
Syria.
 Her slave Myserah was with him as assistant and what he told her about Prophet’s honesty and truthfulness that
made her send decided to get married with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Her friend Nafisah brought the proposal
to Prophet’s (PBUH) uncle Abu Talib who accepted it and Prophet (PBUH) married Khadijah.
 Prophet (PBUH) was 25 and Khadija (RA) was 40 years old at the time of marriage and she lived with Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH) for 25 years.
 They had 6 children together Qasim and Abdullah were 2 sons and Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm-e-Kulthoom and
Fatimah were 4 daughters. Khadijah also took care of two more kids who were Hazrat Ali (RA) and Zaid bin Haritha
(RA) adopted son of Prophet (PBUH).
 Her financial support was very important for Prophet (PBUH) in personal capacity and later on in his mission of
spreading Islam. Firstly, she made Prophet (PBUH) free from financial worries and gave him chance to seclude in
the cave of Hira which was a necessary preparation before receiving the first revelation. Later on, her wealth
played major role in the mission of spreading Islam in early years of Makkah. Allah describes it in Surah Duha:
 “And He found you poor and made [you] self-sufficient.” [93:08]
 She consoled him after first revelation as she covered him with 2 blankets when he reached home trembling
because of fear and shock. Then she consoled him by saying:
 “Allah will never disgrace you. You unite uterine relations; you bear the burden of weak; you help the poor and
needy, you entertain the guests and endure hardships in the path of truthfulness.”
Later, she took him to her cousin Waraqah bin Naufil who approved his Prophethood.
 She was the first one to accept Islam which was a great morale booster and excellent beginning for his mission.
 Her moral support and encouragement was a great source of motivation during the years of persecution in
Makkah. She stood beside him in every persecution, opposition, torture and boycott.
 Prophet (PBUH) loved her so much that He did not marry another woman while she was alive. He said about her:
 “The Noblest women of the world are Maryam (AS) and Khadija (RA)”
 She died in 10th Year of Prophethood. Prophet (PBUH) was so sad that He declared it ‘the Year of Grief’.
 Upon question of Ayesha (RA) that what is so special about Khadijah (RA) he replied:
 “She believed in me when people rejected me”
 Ayesha (RA) says about Khadijah (RA):
 "I did not feel jealous of any of the wives of the Prophet (PBUH) as much as I did of Khadijah (RA) though I did
not see her. But the Prophet (PBUH) used to mention her very often, and whenever he (PBUH) slaughtered a
sheep, he (PBUH) would cut its parts and send them to the women-friends of Khadijah (RA).”

2. Sawdah bint-e-Zam’ah (RA)

 Her father Zam’ah bin Qais belonged to a famous clan Amir bin Loi and her mother Shamos belonged to Bani Najjar.
 Sawdah’s first husband was Sakran bin Amr who was cousin of her father. They both were among the earliest
converts and accepted Islam in the very beginning. They migrated to Abyssinia in 5th year of Prophethood in the 2nd
batch that included 101 emigrants. They came back to Makkah after few years and Sakran died after some time.
They had one son named Abdul Rehman.
 Prophet (PBUH) was left shattered and extremely depressed after the deaths of Abu Talib and Khadija (RA).
Therefore, Hazrat Khawlah (RA) came up with 2 marriage proposals; one of them was of Sawdah (RA). Prophet
(PBUH) accepted this proposal in order to ensure good care for his 2 unwed daughters Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA) and
Fatimah (RA). Khawlah (RA) took the proposal to Sawdah’s father who did not only accept but he even conducted
the ceremony of Nikah himself and set 400 dirhams as dower (Mehar).
 She took great care of Prophet’s (PBUH) daughters and gave them love of true mother. At the time of migration,
Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr migrated to Madinah silently and both left their families in Makkah. Upon reaching
Madinah Prophet (PBUH) sent Zaid bin Haritha (RA) and Abu Rafay (RA) to bring Sawdah (RA) to Madinah along
with 2 daughters.
 She was a great woman with excellent character. Her compassion, patience and understanding were matchless. She
would stay at home and spend time in worship of Allah. She had good sense of humor as once she was offering
Prayer behind Prophet (PBUH) and he prolonged Rukoo for a bit long. After Prayer, she expressed her concern in a
funny way that she had to hold her nose to prevent potential bleeding, which made Prophet (PBUH) laugh out loud.
 Ayesha describes her generosity:
 “She would process the animal skins brought from Ta’if and used to spend her hard earned earning in the way
of Allah.”
 She was so mature and patient that she allowed Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to spend her turn with Ayesha (RA)
knowing that how much Prophet (PUBH) loved her and enjoy her company.
 She died in 22nd A.H during the caliphate of Umar bin Khattab (RA).
 She transmitted 5 Hadiths and one of them has been recorded by Imam Bukhari in his Al-Saheeh.

3. Ayesha bint-e-Abu Bakr (RA)

 During lifetime of Prophet (PBUH):
 Hazrat Ayesha (RA) was the daughter of closest friend of Holy Prophet (PBUH) Abu Bakr (RA) and her mother’s
name was Zainab Umm e Roman.
 Prophet (PBUH) was left shattered and extremely depressed after the deaths of Abu Talib and Khadija (RA).
Therefore, Hazrat Khawlah (RA) came up with 2 marriage proposals; one of them was of Ayesha (RA). Prophet’s
(PBUH) marriage with Ayesha (RA) was solemnized in Madinah in 2nd AH. She was the only bachelor girl that
Prophet (PBUH) married with.
 She was an active and moderate lady as she would always help Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in all walks of life. She
participated in battle of Uhud along with other women and fulfilled the duty of serving water to soldiers and taking
care of wounded ones.
 She was an intelligent, spontaneous and learned lady. She was the symbol of Education and learning as she
transmitted 2210 traditions on every topic. Prophet’s (PBUH) personal lifestyle, his habits and routines at home his
 ways of socializing with people are mostly recorded by Ayesha (RA).
 Once Mothers of Faithful expressed their wish to have worldly riches as people were getting rich with the passage
of time. Mothers of faithful were given choice of this world and hereafter and they were supposed to choose only
one. Ayesha (RA) after consulting with all wives, represented them and replied:
 “Indeed, I desire God and His Messenger and the abode of the Hereafter,”
 Ayesha (RA) endured poverty and hunger with the Prophet SAW. It is authentically related that months went by
without the fire in the hearth being lit, i.e. without any food being cooked, during that time they simply survived on
dates and water but never complained.
 While coming back from Battle of Banu Mustaliq, Ayesha (RA) lost her wat and got separated from the group and
she was rescued by a companion. Hypocrites made fuss over it and she was slandered and her character was
assassinated. The propaganda was so strong that even some Muslims fell in the trap and believed in the false
accusation made by hypocrites. Prophet (PBUH) was very disturbed, but within few days Allah revealed verses of
Surah Noor in which Ayesha’s chastity and character was approved by Allah (SWT) himself, the incident is called
‘Ifk’.
 “Indeed, those who came with falsehood are a group among you. Do not think it bad for you; rather it is good
for you. For every person among them is what [punishment] he has earned from the sin, and he who took upon
himself the greater portion thereof - for him is a great punishment.” [24:11]
 While coming back from another journey she lost her necklace and people were about to miss their prayer as they
were busy in search of her necklace. Allah revealed the verses of dry ablution (Tayammum) and people got so
happy and thanked Abu Bakr and Ayesha (RA) as because of them Allah revealed an alternative option of securing
Prayer in special circumstances.
 During last days of Prophet’s (PBUH) sickness, He shifted in Ayesha’s (RA) apartment and spent his last days with
her. She took great care of him and served him with full devotion and love. Prophet (PBUH) was buried in her
apartment.
 After Prophet’s (PBUH) demise:
 She was so young at the time of Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) sad demise which motivated her to make the most of her
time and guide Muslims community whenever they need her.
 She was the greatest advocate of women empowerment as she paid special attention on bringing women in
mainstream by giving them equal education and chances to excel in different walks of life.
 She was one of the greatest mentor and teacher in Islamic caliphate and source of inspiration and learning for
companions and successors. She kept transmitting Hadiths of Holy Prophet (PBUH) after his demise and guiding
companions about every minor and major issue.
 Because of her shiny personality and wisdom, she played important political role in the times of first 3 caliphs and
worked as their counselor, mentor, guide or critic according to the requirement of different times and situations.
 During Ali’s (RA) caliphate she along with other prominent companions asked for immediate Qisas (Retaliation) of
3rd caliph, Uthman bin Affan (RA) and this agitation led to a civil war called Battle of Camel. In which Ayesha led an
army against 4th Caliph Ali (RA) both armies agreed to establish a treaty and avoiding war but hypocrites from both
sides attacked each other and war broke out that resulted in thousands of casualties. Ayesha (RA) played important
role in motivating people by delivering speeches, she took active part in negotiations and her presence on the
battlefield was also another inspirational action for her followers.
 She died in 58th Ah 17th of Ramadan. She said in her will:
 “Do not follow my bier with a fire nor lay a red velvet piece.”

4. Hafsah bint-e-Umar (RA)

 Hafsah (RA) was the daughter of Hazrat Umar bin Khattab (RA) and her mother was Zainab bint-e-Maz’oon.
 She was born 5 years before Prophethood in Makkah in the year when Quraysh were busy in reconstruction of
Kaabah.
 1st she was married to Khunais bin Hazafa Sahmi (RA) who was among the early converts who accepted Islam upon
 invitation of Abu Bakr (RA).
 Hafsah (RA) migrated to Abyssinia along with her husband and later came back to Makkah. Then in 622 AD they
migrated to Madinah.
 Khunais (RA) participated in battle of Badr and fought gallantly and got severely wounded and later died upon
coming back to Makkah leaving Hafsah widowed in very young age.
 Hazrat Umar (RA) was deeply concerned about her daughter’s mental condition as she was depressed after her
husband’s demise in such early age. Umar (RA) asked Uthman to marry Hafsah but he hesitated. Umar (RA) took this
matter to Prophet (PBUH) who said:
 “Uthman will get a better wife and Hafsah will get a better husband”
 Prophet (PBUH) presented Umm-e-Kulthoom to Uthman and He himself married Hafsah in the month of Sha’ban 3rd
Year of Hijrah.
 She became 4th wife of Prophet (PBUH) and was welcomed by Sawdah (RA) and Ayesha (RA). She started spending
time with Ayesha (RA) and would discuss Islamic teachings with full zeal and zest. They both had literary and
intellectual nature which tied them in unbreakable bond of friendship.
 She used to memorize verses of Holy Quran as they were revealed.
 She could not transmit more than 60 Hadiths but still she had ample understanding of Islamic beliefs and Teachings.
 The first Official copy of Quran that was prepared by Zaid bin Thabit (RA) in the era of Abu Bakr (RA) was handed
over to Umar (RA) after his death it remained under the custody of Hafsah (RA). Even people called it Mus’haf-e-
Hafsah.
 During Uthman’s caliphate when dialect issue arose, Zaid bin Thabit (RA) again consulted Hafsah and asked for
Mus’haf. She happily handed it over for purpose of copying and distributing among provinces.
 She instructed her property to be distributed among poor and Mus’haf to be handed over to brother after her
demise.
 She died at the age of 62 in 45th A.H during the rule of Amir Muaviyah (RA). She was buried in Baqee’.

5. Zainab bint-e-Khuzaymah (RA)

 She was born in 595 AD around 15 years before the first revelation. She was the daughter of Khuzaimah bin Harith.
 She was very compassionate and generous towards poor and downtrodden from her early age as people started
calling her ‘Mother of poor’ (Umm-ul-Masakeen).
 She was the step sister of Maimoonah (RA) another wife of Prophet (PBUH).
 Firstly, she got married to Tufail bin Harith but they got separated soon.
 She then married to Tufail’s brother Ubaidah bin Harith who got martyred in the battle of Badr.
 According to a narration she then married Abdullah bin Jahash who also got martyred in battle of Uhud.
 Prophet (PBUH) married her in 3rd year of Hijrah.
 She remained with Prophet (PBUH) for few months and died at the age of 30. Prophet (PBUH) led her funeral Prayer
and buried her in Baqee’. She was the first wife of Prophet (PBUH) to be buried in Baqee’.

6. Umm-e-Salma (RA)
 She was born in 596 AD in the family of Sohail who was famous as Abu Umayyah. He was a famous and influential
person of Makkah belonged to Banu Makhzoom clan. He had titles of ‘Most Generous Man of Arab’ and ‘Aid of
Travelers’. Her parents named her Hind but later got famous from her title Umm-e-Salma.
 She got married to her cousin Abdullah bin Abdul Asad who was also foster brother and cousin of Prophet (PBUH) as
he was the son of Prophet’s (PBUH) paternal aunt Birrah bint e Abdul Muttalib. He was also famous as Abu Salma.
 They both accepted Islam in the beginning years of Islam and became one of the earliest converts of Islam.
 They both were among the first batch of emigrants who migrated to Abyssinia in 5th year of Prophethood in the
month of Rajab. But they came back to Makkah after few years.
 They were among the first emigrants to Madinah as first Abu Salma (RA) migrated but Umm-e-Salma was stopped
from migrating as her clan did not allow her and they even snatched her son stating that they will not allow their
 blood to leave Makkah. Somehow she managed to migrate to Madinah and lived there with her husband. They had
4 children together. But Abu Salma got severely wounded in battle of Uhud and later got martyred because of same
wound in another campaign against Banu Asad in 4th A.H.
 She completed her Iddah and gave birth to a child she was expecting from her former husband. Abu Bakr (RA) and
Umar (RA) proposed her one after another knowing the worth and greatness of her personality but she refused.
 Later Prophet (PBUH) sent marriage proposal to which she responded:
 “There is no chance that I would turn down this great offer but I am possessive, I have children, I am aged and I
do not have any guardian (who could take care of all marriage matters).”
 Prophet (PBUH) responded:
 “I will pray to Allah to calm your possessive attitude, your children will be taken good care of, I am older than
you and no guardian would disagree with this proposal.”
 Prophet (PBUH) married her in 4th A.H and gifted a grinder, a pitcher and a leather pillow in dower (Mehar). She was
decent, modest and famous for her attractive personality and beauty. She put maximum efforts to make room for
her and mingle on with other wives of Prophet (PBUH).
 She accompanied Prophet (PBUH) in the journey of Treaty of Hudaibiah in 6th year of Hijrah. After treaty got signed
and Quraysh took away one of Makkan Muslim named Abu Jundal, everyone was so emotional. Prophet (PBUH)
instructed them to fulfil the rituals of Umrah and start moving back to Madinah but no one stood up because of
extreme trauma. Umm-e-Salma suggested Prophet (PBUH) to go in the middle of ground and start sacrificing his
animals and shaving his head. Upon seeing Prophet (PBUH) doing rituals, everyone stood up and followed him and
they left for Madinah. That’s how Umm-e-Salma’s intellect helped solve a dead lock with her great suggestion.
 She was a great supported and wise counselor, which is why Prophet (PBUH) used to take her to maximum journeys
and expeditions. She accompanied him in invasion of Khyber, conquest of Makkah, Battle of Hunain, siege of Ta’if
and Farewell Pilgrimage.
 The verse of cleanliness was revealed in her apartment in which Allah testified purification and great distinction of
Prophet’s (PBUH) family members.
 “…Allah intends only to remove from you the impurity, O people of the (Prophet's) household and to purify you
with purification…” [33:33]
According to different scholars and Quranic experts ‘Prophet’s Household’ includes all wives of Prophet (PBUH), all
daughters and their children. Hazrat Ali (RA) being Prophet’s (PBUH) cousin, adopted child and son in-law also
included in this list.
 She outlived Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and lived for another 51 years and died in 62 A.H at the age of 88 years
during the rule of Yazid. Hazrat Abu Hurairah led funeral Prayer and she was laid down into grave by her sons Umar
and Salma.

7. Zainab bint-e-Jahsh (RA)

 Her original name was Burrah but later Prophet (PBUH) renamed her as Zainab and the title was Umm-ul-Hakam.
She was born in 590 AD in the family of Jahsh who belonged to Banu Asad clan of Quraysh. Her mother was
Umaymah bint e Abdul Muttalib (RA) the paternal aunt of Prophet (PBUH).
 She embraced Islam along with her family and became one of earliest Muslims.
 She was among the emigrants who migrated to Abyssinia in 5th year of Prophethood but she came back after few
years and then migrated to Madinah along with a big number of her family members.
 Prophet (PBUH) sent her marriage proposal of Zaid bin Haritha (RA) who was his freed slave, adopted son and a
great companion. Firstly, she and her brother refused referring to Zaid’s status of former slave and different social
status. But upon request of Prophet (PBUH) they agreed and Zaid married Zainab.
 But social difference, different status and other things did not allow them to carry on with their journey and they
could not continue their married life. Prophet (PBUH) tried his level best to mediate but it ended up on their
separation.
 Allah instructed Prophet (PBUH) to marry Zainab in order to console her as she was pained and depressed after this
 divorce. There was proper background and planning of Allah behind this marriage as it defied the Arab norm of
considering their adopted children equal to their original ones. Allah describes it in Surah Al-Ahzaab:
 “…So when Zaid had no longer any need for her, We married her to you in order that there not be upon the
believers any discomfort concerning the wives of their adopted sons when they no longer have need of them.”
[33:37]
 Among her great qualities were generosity, righteousness, sophistication, hard work and compassion.
 She was so keen and mindful about the biggest reality of this world that is death as he had prepared her shroud. She
died in 20th A.H in the era of Umar bin Khattab (RA). Her funeral prayer was led by Umar (RA) himself. Ayesha (RA)
used to say about her:
 “May Allah have mercy on Zainab; she secured a distinction in this world which can never be attained by anyone
else. Allah got her married to Prophet (PBUH) and approved (mentioned) it in Quran.”

8. Javeria bint e Harith (RA)

 She was the daughter of Banu Mustaliq’s leader Harith bin Abu Zarar.
 She was married to Musaafay bin Safwan who was her cousin.
 In 5th A.H Prophet (PBUH) got to know that Harith bin Abu Zarar is planning to attack on Madinah. In response to this
report, Prophet (PB UH) marched towards Muraysi’ a pond or well owned by Banu Mustaliq. Banu Mustaliq attacked
on invading Muslim group but could not hold the ground when Muslims responded which resulted in killing of few of
their members including Javeria’s husband and 600 prisoners.
 According to the distribution formula Javeria was handed over to Sabit bin Qais (RA) as a slave. Prophet (PBUH)
secured her freedom and married her while she was 20 years old.
 This marriage had great humanitarian impact as all companions freed all slaves of Banu Mustaliq realizing that it
would be disrespect to enslave Prophet’s (PBUH) in-laws.
 Ayesha said about her:
 “I knew of no other woman who brought greater blessing to her people than Javeria as hundreds of her
tribesmen got independence just because of her.”
 Her father also accepted Islam when he came to meet Prophet (PBUH) and ask her daughter’s freedom. Prophet
(PBUH) responded that ask your daughter who said to her father:
 “I choose Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”
 Among her distinguished qualities were inner and outer beauty, righteousness, passion for worship specially fasting
and Prayers.
 She died in 50 A.H at the age of 65. Funeral Prayer was led by Marwan bin Hakam the mayor of Madinah and was
buried in Baqee’.

9. Umm-e-Habibah bint-e-Abu Sufyan (RA)

 Her name was Ramlah and she was the daughter of Abu Sufyan one of the most influential personality of Makkah
and Safiah who was the paternal aunt of Uthman bin Affan. She got famous from her title Umm-e-Habibah.
 She was born in 594 AD in the most influential clan of Quraysh Banu Umayyah.
 She married Ubaidullah bin Jahash and embraced Islam in early days. They faced persecution and torture which
compelled them to migrate to Abyssinia. They both were in the 2nd batch of Muslims that included 101 Muslims and
migrated to Abyssinia in 5th year of Prophethood.
 Ramlah and her husband Ubaidullah remained in Abyssinia along with their two children. But unfortunately,
Ubaidullah converted to Christianity and after some time he died leaving Ramlah a widow with responsibility of 3
children.
 Prophet (PBUH) got to know about her helpless state and loneliness. Prophet (PBUH) sent marriage proposal to her
through Amr bin Umayyah (RA) who delivered Prophet’s (PBUH) message to Negus the king of Abyssinia. Negus
arranged everything regarding Nikah and even paid 400 Dinar dower (Mehar) to Umm-e-Habiba (RA) from Prophet’s
(PBUH) side. Then she was brought to Madinah with full protocol and respect and joined Prophet (PBUH) in 6th A.H.
 When her father Abu Sufyan visited Madinah to reestablish the Treaty of Hudaibiah and tried to use her daughter to
get his demands fulfilled, she refused to give any assistance to Abu Sufyan as Makkans were the one who initiated
the war and had broken the Treaty of Hudaibiah.
 She was very particular in following Prophet’s (PBUH) Sunnah, seeking and imparting knowledge and forgiving.
 She died in 44 A.H.

10. Safiyah bint-e-Hayy (RA)

 She was the daughter of Banu Nadhir’s chief Hayy bin Akhtab and her mother was Birrah who was the sister of chief
of Banu Quraizah which gave Safiyah a great distinction that her paternal and maternal both were highlty significant
and important people.
 First she married Salam bin Mashkam famous poet and leader but they could not remain together for long and got
separated.
 She then married Kinanah bin Abu Al-Haqiq who was the leader and in charge of fort Qamoos in Khyber. Muslims
invaded Khyber in 7th A.H and Kinanah was killed in the battle guarding his fort. Safiyah (RA) was handed over to
Dahya Kalbi (RA) as a slave but in order to fulfil the requirement of her high status and background, Prophet (PBUH)
exchanged her by offering 7 slaves to Dahya (RA).
 He then offered her independence or marriage and she chose to marry Prophet (PBUH). She was 17 years old at the
time of Nikah with Prophet (PBUH).
 Among her notable qualities were Patience, grace, empathy, righteousness and being exceptionally good at coking
and other home chores.
 She attempted to break the siege of Uthman and tried to provide him with food and water but she was stopped by
Malik Ashtar (famous rebel against Uthman) who started beating her mule and compelled her to return. Later she
asked Hassan (RA) to fulfil this duty.
 She died in 50th A.H and was buried in Baqee’.

11. Maimoonah bint-e-Harith (RA)

 She was the daughter of Harith bin Hazn who belonged to the clan of Himyer and her mother was Hind bint-e-Auf.
She belonged to her parents named her Barrah but Prophet (PBUH) renamed her Maimoonah (RA) which means full
of blessings.
 She was the maternal aunt of Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) and Khalid bin Waleed.
 She first married Masood bin Amr Thaqfi but they got separated soon.
 She then married Abu Raham who also died after some time. While Prophet (PBUH) was going to offer Umrah-al-
Qadha in 7th A.H, Prophet’s (PBUH) uncle Abbas (RA) requested him to marry Maimoonah. Prophet (PBUH) agreed
and sent Jafar bin Abu Talib to with offer of Nikah. Hazrat Abbas (RA) conducted the marriage ceremony while
Prophet (PBUH) was wearing Ihram. Dower (mehar) was 400 Dirham.
 She transmitted 76 Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
 She died at ‘Sarf’ a place outside Makkah; it is the same place where Prophet (PBUH) married her. The year was 51
A.H and funeral Prayer was led by Abdullah bin Abbas (RA).

12. Rayhana bint-e-Sham’on (RA)

 She belonged to the tribe of Banu Nadhir and had married a man from Banu Quraizah who were bound to help
Muslims defend Madinah. But they teamed up with Quraysh during battle of Trench and planned to back stab
Muslims while they were busy guarding the trench. Rayhana (RA) was taken as captive when Banu Quraizah were
besieged right after battle of Trench.
 She accepted Islam when she was freed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and later in 6th A.H Prophet (PBUH)
 proposed her marriage in order to settle his relations with Banu Nadhir and other Jewish tribes.
 She lived with Prophet (PBUH) for 4 years until his death and outlived him for 10 more years. She was buried in
Baqee’.

13. Maria Qibtiyah (RA)

th
 In 6 A.H Prophet (PBUH) started sending letters to different emperors. One such letter was carried by Hatib (RA) to
the king of Egypt Muqawqis. Though Muqawqis did not convert to Islam but gave immense respect to Prophet’s
(PBUH) messenger and sent him back loaded with gifts including a female slave named Maria Qibtiyah.
 Prophet (PBUH) freed and later married her.
 She gave birth to Prophet’s (PBUH) beloved son Ibrahim (RA) in 8th A.H. Prophet (PBUH) used to love him a lot but
unfortunately he died after living for 18 months.
 She died in 16th A.H.

________________
 Descendants of Prophet (PBUH)
Daughters of Prophet (PBUH)
Q (a) Give an account of the lives of the Prophet’s (PBUH) four daughters. [10]
Q (a) Give an account of the life of Prophet’s (PBUH) daughter Fatimah (RA). [10]
1. Zainab (RA)
 Zainab (RA) was the eldest daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She was born after 5 years of marriage when
he was 30 years old.
 Upon her mother’s wish, she was married to his cousin Abul Aas bin Rabi. She embraced Islam while his husband
remained non-believer. Quraysh tried to convince Abul Aas to divorce Zainab (RA) in order to isolate and tease Holy
Prophet (PBUH) but he did not, instead he replied:
 “I will not prefer any other woman over Zainab as she is the noblest lady” [Seerat-ul-Nabi]
 She could not migrate because of her husband and had to stay back in Makkah.
 In 2nd A.H Abul Aas fought from Quraysh side in battle of Badr and was captured as prisoner. In his ransom, Zainab
sent a necklace that was gifted by her mother Khadija (RA). Prophet (PBUH) got emotional upon seeing the necklace
of his beloved wife and returned Abul Aas along with necklace but asked him to send Zainab (RA) to Madinah.
 She spent six years without her husband and missed him a lot.
 While coming back from a trade journey, Abul Aas mind got changed and he decided to accept Islam. First he went
to Makkah, returned everyone’s belongings and properties. Finally he embraced Islam before conquest of Makkah
and joined his family.
 Unfortunately, Zainab died after some time of his arrival. They had 2 children, a son named Ali who died as infant
and a daughter named Umamah who was loved so much by Holy Prophet (BPHU).

2. Ruqayyah (RA)
 Ruqayyah (RA) was 3 years younger than Zainab (RA).
 She was married to Abu-Lahab’s son Atbah. But when Abu Lahab became open enemy of Prophet (PBUH) and was
highlighted in Surah Lahab, he ordered his son to divorce Ruqayyah (RA).
 Later on, she was married to Usman bin Affan (RA). They faced Quraysh’s persecution together, migrated to
Abyssinia and Madinah together.
 In 2nd A.H she fell severely ill and Usman (RA) could not participate in Battle of Badr because he had to stay back to
take care of her. She died was just buried the moment Zaid bin Haritha (RA) brought the news of victory.
 She had a son named Abdullah who died at the age of 6.

3. Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA)
 Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA) was also married to Utaybah the younger son of Abu-Lahab.
 Upon his father’s command, he also divorced Umm-e-Kulthoom.
 She migrated to Madinah along with Sawdah (RA) and Fatimah (RA).
 She was married to Uthman (RA) in 2nd A.H after death of Ruqayyah. She lived with him for almost 6 years and died
in in 9th A.H in the month of Sha’ban.
 Prophet (PBUH) himself offered her funeral. Ali, Fadhal and Usama bin Zaid placed her body in grave while Prophet
(PBUH) was seen sitting at her grave late at night and crying.
 4. Fatimah (RA)
 Fatima (RA) was the youngest daughter of Holy Prophet (PBUH), was born 5 years before the first revelation. Zahra
and Batool were her titles.
 She was very much attached to his father and used to get so much upset upon seeing her father facing inhuman
persecution by Quraysh. Once Quraysh decided to disturb Prophet (PBUH) while he was offering Prayer and Uqba
bin abu Muit brought a camel intestine and put it on the back of Prophet’s (PBUH) neck while he was in prostration.
Fatimah (RA) reached the spot furiously and removed the filth from Prophet’s (PBUH) neck.
 She was so attached to Hazrat Khadijah (RA) so she got shattered upon death of her beloved mother in 619 AD.
 Prophet (PBUH) married Sawdah (RA) who was an aged loving woman just for the sake of his daughters Umm-e-
Kulthoom and Fatimah as they were young and needed someone to take care of them. Fatimah (RA) established a
strong bond with Sawdah (RA) and she also loved her like her own daughter.
 At the time of migration to Madinah, Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr migrated to Madinah silently and both left their
families in Makkah. Upon reaching Madinah Prophet (PBUH) sent Zaid bin Haritha (RA) and Abu Rafay (RA) to bring
Sawdah (RA) along with Fatimah and Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA).
 Number of companions wanted to marry Fatimah as this would have been a great distinction to marry the most
beloved daughter of Prophet (PBUH). Even Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA) send their proposals but Prophet (PBUH)
remained silent. Finally, Ali (RA) sent marriage proposal and Fatimah was married to Ali (RA) in 2nd A.H.
 The marriage was example of decency and simplicity. Prophet (PBUH) asked Ali (RA) to arrange the expenditures of
marriage ceremony but he referred to his financial crisis. Prophet (PBUH) then reminded him about a shield that he
owned in battle of Badr. Ali (RA) sold that shield and money was used to compensate expenditures of marriage that
included payment of some household items, refreshment for guests and some décor and perfumes. A companion
named Haritha bin Nauman gifted his house for accommodation of Ali and Fatimah. Fatimah settled in that home
after marriage as it was nearby Prophet’s (PBUH) home.
 She continued the tradition of simplicity and righteousness throughout her life. Once she asked Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) for a slave to perform home chores as her hands got unwell because of excessive usage of wheat grinder.
Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “Shouldn’t I give you something better than that?”
Upon her affirmative response, Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “Recite Subhan Allah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times and Allah u Akbar 34 times after every Prayer.”
This is why this set of Prayers is called ‘Tasbeehat-e-Fatimah’.
 Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would give so much regard to her; he would stand up and greet her whenever she
visited him. Prophet told her:
 “You’re the leader of women in Paradise” [Bukhari]
 She was also among who were addressed in the verse of purification is Surah Al_Ahzab:
 “…Allah intends only to remove from you the impurity, O people of the [Prophet's] household…” [33:33]
 Prophet (PBHU) gave her 2 news while he was on his death bed. She was grieved after listening to first but became
satisfied after listening to 2nd one. First one was about his death so she got depressed. But when she was told that
she would be the first one to join him, she became happy.
 She died in Ramadha, 11th A.H, 6 months after Prophet’s (PBUH) demise. She had 3 sons, Hasan, Husain and Mohsin
(RA) and 2 daughter Zainab and Umm-e-Kulsoom (RA).
 Ayesha (RA) said about her:
 “Prophet (PBUH) loved Fatimah the most. Whenever he would go to a journey he would meet Fatimah in the
end and whenever he would come back from a journey he would meet her first before everyone else.”

Q (b) Can Muslims learn from the Prophet’s bond with Fatima? Give reasons for your answer.
[04][N/2013]
CAIE Marking Scheme
 Answers can vary from a Shi’a or Sunni point of view and valid answers that show some reflection and understanding
should be credited.
Some answers could be: that the Prophet respected Fatima by standing when she entered a room, and so Muslims
should learn that they should not disrespect their daughters but rather honor them; that the Prophet never mourned
that he had daughters and no sons, so Muslims should not think that sons are better than daughters; he shared a
special bond with Fatima, so she was happy to have tidings she would be the first to follow him after his death.
Answer
 Arab’s period of illiteracy was dark and horrible but darker for women in particular. Women were considered as
objects, they had no rights and they were just meant to serve men. Arabs would get extremely depressed upon birth
of girls.
 Prophet (PBUH) broke all these stereotypes and gave love, affection and respect to his daughters.
Bond/Conduct Lesson/Inspiration
Prophet (PBUH) would stand up in respect of Fatimah. Muslims should give proper respect and honor their
daughters.
Prophet (PBUH) never mourned over not having any son. Muslims should consider daughters as blessing and should
never differentiate.
Prophet (PBUH) did not want to marry anyone else after Muslims should leave no stone unturned in good
Khadijah but he did just for upbringing of Fatimah and upbringing of their daughters.
Umm-e-Kulthoom.
She would get upset upon seeing Prophet (PBUH) being Teaches Muslims that this is a two way relationship and
persecuted and later she got happy upon coming to know father’s affection earns him true respect and recognition
that she will be the first to meet Prophet (PBUH) after his from daughters.
demise.

Grand Children of Prophet (PBUH)

1. Umamah bint e Zainab (RA)
 She was the daughter of Hazrat Zainab and Abul Aas (RA).
 Being the eldest grandchild of Prophet (PBUH), she was the most loved kid of the family.
 Prophet (PBUH) was so attached to her and loved her so much. It is reported that once Prophet (PBUH) was seen
offering Prayer while carrying Umamah (RA). Prophet (PBUH) would prolong his prostration in order to let her play.
 Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once promised to give a precious necklace that came in spoils of war, to someone he
loved most. Mothers of faithful expected him to give it to Ayesha (RA), but he presented it to Umamah (PBUH).
 After the death of Fatimah, she married Ali. After his martyrdom she married Mughirah bin Shobah (RA) and gave
birth to a son named Yahya. She died in 50 A.H.

Q (a) Write accounts of the lives of the Prophet’s two grandsons Hasan (RA) and Hussain (RA).
[10][J/2009]
CAIE Marking Scheme
Answers for this part could give an account of the lives of the grandsons of the Prophet from their childhood to their
deaths. For both of them, their closeness to the Prophet could be described as well as important points such as their
support for their father throughout his Caliphate. Al-Hasan was involved with his father in the battle of Siffin and the
battle with Aisha. He became Caliph but gave it up after a year due to heavy opposition from Mu’awiya. He was
poisoned and died in the year 670. Al-Husayn rejected the Umayyads and refused to accept Yazid as caliph after
 Mu’awiya. AlHusayn’s supporters in Kufa were killed/punished. In 680AD, returning from Hajj, he camped at Karbala
and Umayyad troops surrounded the camp. There was a battle between his 72 supporters and a 4000 strong army.
They put up resistance but eventually al-Husayn was surrounded and killed. His head was taken to the Caliph.

2. Hasan bin Ali (RA)

 Hasan (RA) was the first child of Ali (RA) and Fatimah (RA). He was born in Ramadan 3rd A.H. Prophet (PBUH)
performed post-birth rituals that included recitation of Azan in his right ear and Iqamah in his left ear, gave him
honey and paid charity equal to weight of his hair. Prophet (PBUH) celebrated his Aqiqah and sacrificed 2 sheep. His
unique name ‘Hasan’ (The beautiful) was also given by Holy Prophet (PBUH).
 Being the first child of his parents he was beloved not only to his parents but to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). There
are numerous stories that demonstrate Prophet’s (PBUH) love and affection for him as he would play with him, carry
him to mosque, even they would rush in while Prophet (PBUH) was in crucial meetings. This was same as when
Prophet (PBUH) used to be attached with his grandfather Abdul Muttalib. It is reported that whenever Hasan would
see Prophet (PBUH) in Prostration, he would climb up on his back and start playing and Prophet (PBUH) would
prolong his Prostration in order to let him play as long as he wanted. Once Prophet (PBUH) was delivering Friday
sermon and he saw Hasan coming towards him. He stopped the sermon and came down to pick Hasan (RA) and gave
him love.
 Hasan got the best mentors one could imagine. Under the blessed shadow of the Holy Prophet he received his
training from the most blessed parents on earth. Coming to the mosque of the Prophet, listening to the Sermons of
his grandfather and seeing Islam prosper were the lessons one can never forget.
 Once a group of Christians from Najran challenged the ideologies of Islam and they were not ready to listen to any
logical answer. Prophet (PBUH) invited them for ‘Mubahala’, Allah elaborates this:
 “Then whoever argues with you about it after [this] knowledge has come to you - say, "Come, let us call our
sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves, then supplicate earnestly
[together] and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars [among us]." [03:61]
Family members that were called by Prophet (PBUH), Hasan (RA) was also included among them. Prophet (PBUH)
covered them in his cloak which is why they are called ‘The people of cloak’.
 He was just 8 years old when Prophet (PBUH) died in 632 AD and right after 6 months he lost his mother too which
impacted his personality in a great manner and made him mature and visionary as compared to his age group. He
was taken care by Ali (RA) who instilled bravery, love of knowledge, generosity and compassion in his personality.
 He always played his part during the caliphate of first three caliphs and performed different tasks whenever he was
called on duty. When rebels besieged the house of Uthman with intention to kill him, Hasan (RA) along with his
younger brother Hussain (RA) guarded the gate of Uthman’s residence and made sure that supply of food and water
is not interrupted to the family of Uthman (RA).
 He worked as advisor and right hand of his Father Ali (RA) during his caliphate. He supported, advised and protected
his father during his 4 years of rule that was full of turmoil, chaos and civil wars.
 Seeing his compassion and good management skills, Ali (RA) appointed him supervisor of national treasury.
 Before battle of camel that was fought against the forces of Ayesha (RA), Hasan was given task to go to Kufa and
mobilize the army and reach the battlefield. A task he fulfilled with full dedication and met expectation of his father.
 He also participated in the battles of Siffin that was fought against Amir Muaviyah (RA) and Battle of Naharwan
fought against Khawarij.
 According to Shia Muslims, Ali was the first Imam in the chain of twelve and he designated Hasan (RA) as the 2nd
Imam in the chain. Therefore, He became caliph after the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali (RA) in January 661 AD.
 He received reports about Syrian forces gathering on borders of Iraq border, He immediately responded and asked
assistance from Iraqi region to respond to Umayyad threat. He could not gather a valid number of defending force
which reminded him the treachery of this region when they betrayed Ali (RA) several times. So he signed a peace
treaty with Amir Muaviyah (RA) and surrendered the caliphate. This was even predicted by Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) as he had said:
  “This son of mine will make peace between the two fractions of Muslims.”
 Hasan (RA) and Muaviyah (RA) agreed on some terms and signed a treaty that bounded Muaviyah to rule according
to the Quran and Sunnah. Shia Muslims believe that Muaviyah was bound to nominate Hussain (RA) as his successor
which Muaviyah (RA) did not fulfil.
 He married numerous women; one of them was the daughter of worst enemy of Ali (RA) named Joda bint e Ash’as.
According to historians, Joda bint-e-Ash’as poisoned him because of which he died. It is reported that she had
married her only to quench the thirst of her father’s enmity.
 Hasan got martyred in 50 A.H and was buried in Baqee’. Prophet (PBUH) reported to have said about him:
 “Hasan and Hussain are the chiefs of youth in Paradise.”

3. Hussain bin Ali (RA)

 Hussain (RA) was the 2 son of Ali (RA) and Fatimah (RA). He was born in Shaban 4rd A.H. Prophet (PBUH) performed
nd

post-birth rituals that included recitation of Azan in his right ear and Iqamah in his left ear, gave him honey and paid
charity equal to weight of his hair. Prophet (PBUH) celebrated his Aqiqah and sacrificed 2 sheep. His unique name
‘Hussain’ (The little beautiful) was also given by Holy Prophet (PBUH).
 Fatimah (RA) got severely ill after giving birth to Hussain, which is why his initial upbringing was done by Umm-e-
Fadhal (RA).
 He was loved not only by his parents but by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). There are numerous stories that
demonstrate Prophet’s (PBUH) love and affection for him as he would play with him carry him to mosque; even he
would rush in while Prophet (PBUH) was in crucial meetings. This was same as when Prophet (PBUH) used to be
attached with his grandfather Abdul Muttalib. It is reported that whenever Hasan would see Prophet (PBUH) in
Prostration, he would climb up on his back and start playing and Prophet (PBUH) would prolong his Prostration in
order to let him play as long as he wanted. Companions of Prophet (PBUH) were habitual of all these games of
Prophet (PBUH) with his grandsons. Once Umar bin Khattab (RA) saw him riding on Prophet’s back he said:
 “Your mode of transport is excellent.”
Prophet (PBUH) responded upon listening to this:
 “The passenger is also excellent, Umar!”
 Hussain got the best mentors one could imagine. Under the blessed shadow of the Holy Prophet he received his
training from the most blessed parents on earth. Coming to the mosque of the Prophet, listening to the Sermons of
his grandfather and seeing Islam prosper were the lessons one can never forget.
 Prophet (PBUH) said about Hussain:
 “Hussain is from me and I am from Hussain. May Allah love him who loves Hussain.”
 Once a group of Christians from Najran challenged the ideologies of Islam and they were not ready to listen to any
logical answer. Prophet (PBUH) invited them for ‘Mubahala’, Allah elaborates this:
 “Then whoever argues with you about it after [this] knowledge has come to you - say, "Come, let us call our
sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves, then supplicate earnestly
[together] and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars [among us]." [03:61]
Family members that were called by Prophet (PBUH), Hussain (RA) was also included among them. Prophet (PBUH)
covered them in his cloak which is why they are called ‘The people of cloak’.
 He was just 7 years old when Prophet (PBUH) died in 632 AD and right after 6 months he lost his mother too which
impacted his personality in a great manner. He was taken care by Ali (RA) who inspired him to be brave, straight
forward, consistent and righteous.
 He always played his part during the caliphate of first three caliphs and performed different tasks whenever he was
called on duty. When rebels besieged the house of Uthman with intention to kill him, Hussain (RA) along with his
elder brother Hasan (RA) guarded the gate of Uthman’s residence and made sure that supply of food and water is
not interrupted to the family of Uthman (RA).
 He participated in the battles of Camel that was fought against Ayesha (RA) Siffin that was fought against Amir
Muaviyah (RA) and Battle of Naharwan fought against Khawarij.
 He was reluctant during the signing of treaty between Hasan (RA) and Amir Muaviyah (RA) but Hasan did not listen
to him and signed the treaty which was a hard pill to swallow.
 According to Shia Muslims, Hussain (RA) is the 3rd Imam in the chain of twelve Imams as Hasan (RA) appointed him
next Imam on his death bed.
 He opposed the nomination of Yazid bin Muaviyah and did not give pledge of allegiance to him. Yazid ordered the
governor of Madinah to compel Hussain (RA) to give pledge of allegiance to Yazid. Hussain (RA) refused to give any
pledge and left Madinah to avoid bloodshed and took refuge in Makkah.
 Soon he started receiving letters from Kufa inviting him to lead the agitation against Yazid as he was not a just and
legitimate ruler. According to narrations he received 18 thousand letters inviting him to come to Kufa and lead the
revolt against Yazid.
 Hussain (RA) his cousin Muslim bin Aqil (RA) to inquire about the situation. He reached Kufa, inquired the situation
and sent green signal to Hussain. But as soon as he indicated Hussain (RA) to come to Kufa, he got to know about
the treachery of the people of Kufa. Governor of Kufa and Busra Ibn-e-Ziyad arrested and assassinated him and no
one came out to support Muslim bin Aqil.
 Hussain (RA) had already prepared to march towards Kufa along with his family members and devotees. Abdullah
bin Abbas (RA) held the rein of his horse to stop him and said about people of Kufa:
 “They have betrayed your father, they will betray you necessarily.”
But Hussain (RA) left for Kufa as he had already decided it and it was necessary to struggle against a tyrant ruler like
Yazid.
 He got the news of martyrdom of Muslim bin Aqil (RA) on his way to Kufa which affected his followers and large
number of people deserted him and he was only left 72 family members and close companions.
 Hussain (RA) and his army were made to camp at Karbala near the Euphrates River. Yazid’s army cut the water
supply of Imam’s camp and besieged their camp so they could not get water from Euphrates. Imam Hussain (RA)
stayed strong and fought gallantly for approximately 10 days. Soldiers of imam started to fall one after another. He
delivered a final speech inviting army of Yazid to fear Allah and stand against oppression. Speech could not make any
impact on Yazid’s army; as a result Imam got martyred after fighting courageously. It was 10th Muharram when his
head was cut off and sent to Damascus as a sign of Yazid’s victory.
 He sacrificed his family and his own life but did not give up in front of oppressor. He made people understand the
true meaning of the Hadith of Prophet (PBUH):
 “Best Jihad is to raise voice against tyrant ruler.”
 Prophet (PBUH) reported to have said about him:
 “Hasan and Hussain are the chiefs of youth in Paradise.”

Q (b) Explain why they each died in the way they did. [04][J/2009]
CAIE Marking Scheme
Full answers here will be able to discuss the reasons why al-Hasan and al-Husayn opposed the Umayyads. Al-Hasan
died because of the constant threat from the Umayyads to secure power, and they always viewed al-Hasan as an
obstacle due to his support and his being the grandson of the Prophet. His poisoning reflects the treachery of the
Umayyads. Al-Husayn died because he resisted the Umayyads as he saw them as corrupt. He never gave up on his
principles even for his own safety, and so he was seen as an upholder of right against wrong.
Answer
 The mentoring of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Ali (RA) and Fatimah never allowed Hasan (RA) and Hussain (RA) to
give up in the face of oppression and injustice. They always stood up for the cause of Allah and betterment of Islam
and Muslims which resulted in their martyrdom.
 There can be two possible reasons behind Hasan’s (RA) martyrdom:
 Umayyads killed him as he was the biggest obstacle in their way being Prophet’s (PBUH) grandson and a worthy
person to lead Muslim community. As one version of history says that Amir Muaviyah bribed Joda (wife of Hasan) to
poison him and promised her marriage with Yazid.
 But another very strong version says that Hasan (RA) was the only hope of unity among Muslims as predicted by
Prophet (PBUH). He surrendered his caliphate just for the greater good of Muslim Ummah and Muslims came under
one caliph after a long time just because of Hasan’s (RA) efforts. He may have been killed by hypocrites or any other
fraction of enemies of Islam just because of his contribution towards Muslim unity.
 Hussain (RA) was straight forward and aggressive from the beginning as he did not accept the agreement between
Hasan (RA) and Amir Muaviyah. He opposed the nomination of Yazid which infuriated Yazid. He ordered his
governor to compel Imam Hussain to give pledge but Imam refused. Yazid started considering him biggest threat for
his government; therefore he killed him along with his family members at Karbala.

The Event of Karbala

Q (a) Outline the main events surrounding the incident of Karbala. [10]
Answer Structure
Para 1 Para 2 Para 3
 Old rivalry between Banu Umayyah  Yazid’s plan, pressure of governor of  Arrival of Syrian Army.
and Banu Hashim. Madinah.  Nigotiation.
 Rivalry of Ali (RA) and Muaviyah (RA).  Imam Hussain in Makkah and letters  Camp at Karbala and shortage of
 Peace Treaty between Hasan (RA) and from Kufa. water.
Muaviyah (RA).  Muslim bin Aqil’s martyrdom in Kufa.  Role of Shimr.
 Yazid’s succession and opposition of  Imam Hussain’s march to Kufa.  Final speech of Imam Hussain (RA).
Hussain (RA).  Battle and martyrdom of companions.
 Martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA).
Answer
 Banu Hashim and Banu Umayyah had been arch rivals even from the period of illiteracy. Abu Sufyan kept opposing
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) till 8th A.H some 2 years before Prophet’s (PBUH) demise.
 Amir Muaviyah (RA) did not accept Ali as caliph until he retaliate Uthman’s (RA) murder (who belonged to Banu
Umayyah) this led to Battle of Siffin that resulted in 100 thousand casualties and ignited the old rivalry.
 Hasan (RA) took a bold step and surrendered his caliphate in order to bring Muslims under one caliph and signed a
treaty that declared Amir Muaviyah (RA) as undisputed caliph of Muslims. Imam Hussain (RA) was reluctant.
 Amir Muaviyah (RA) nominated Yazid as his successor a decision which was not acceptable to Imam Hussain (RA)
and he decided to do whatever he could to stand against this oppressive regime.
 It is reported that Amir Muaviyah (RA) had suggested Yazid not to use force against any member of Prophet’s
(PBUH) family specially Imam Hussain (RA). But Yazid lacked vision and was not competent enough to deal with this
peacefully so he decided to use force and gave orders to governor of Madinah to meet Imam Hussain (RA) and
compel him to give pledge of allegiance to Yazid. Governor of Madinah invited Imam Hussain and pressurized him to
pledge loyalty to Yazid. Imam (RA) responded:
 “A person like me does not do something behind the doors.”
And he migrated to Makkah in order to avoid further problems and bloodshed.
 Imam Hussain started receiving letters from Kufa the capital of Islamic empire during Ali’s caliphate; people of Kufa
wanted Imam Hussain to lead the agitation against Yazid whom they considered unfit to be the caliph. According to
one narration Imam Hussain received 18 thousand letters during time span of 4 months. Most of them have similar
content:
 We do not have any Imam. We do not offer Prayer behind Nauman bin Bashir (Governor of Kufa). Your arrival
will unite us and we will revolt against Yazid’s oppressive government.”
 Hussain (RA) his cousin Muslim bin Aqil (RA) to inquire about the situation. He reached Kufa, inquired the situation
and sent green signal to Hussain. But as soon as he indicated Hussain (RA) to come to Kufa, he got to know about
the treachery of the people of Kufa. Governor of Kufa and Busra Ibn-e-Ziyad arrested and assassinated him and no
 one came out to support Muslim bin Aqil.
 Hussain (RA) had already prepared to march towards Kufa along with his family members and devotees. Abdullah
bin Abbas (RA) held the rein of his horse to stop him and said about people of Kufa:
 “They have betrayed your father, they will betray you necessarily.”
But Hussain (RA) left for Kufa as he had already decided it and it was necessary to struggle against a tyrant ruler like
Yazid.
 He got the news of martyrdom of Muslim bin Aqil (RA) on his way to Kufa which affected his followers and large
number of people deserted him and he was only left 72 family members and close companions.
 Meanwhile, Yazid sent a fresh Syrian army led by Amr bin Saad that cornered Imam Hussain’s (RA) army into the
desert into the ground of Karabala nearby Euphrates River. They started negotiation and Imam Hussain made final
effort for peace and to avoid bloodshed from both sides. He gave three options to Syrian army:
1. Let me go back from where I have come (Makkah, Madinah)
2. Take me to borders so I could get martyred fighting in the way of Allah.
3. Take me to Yazid so I could settle everything with him face to face.
Amr bin Saad seemed to be convinced and wanted to accept the third condition but an influential lord named Shimr
Zul-Joshan used his influence and pressurized Saad not to accept any of the terms and things started getting worse.
 On 2nd Muharram, Yazid’s army cut off the water supply of Imam’s camp and besieged their camp so they could not
get water from Euphrates River. Imam Hussain (RA) stayed strong and fought gallantly for approximately 10 days
despite soldiers of imam started to fall one after another.
 He delivered a final speech inviting army of Yazid to fear Allah and stand against oppression. Speech could not make
any impact on Yazid’s army; as a result Imam got martyred after fighting courageously. It was 10th Muharram when
his head was cut off and sent to Damascus as a sign of Yazid’s victory.
 He sacrificed his family and his own life but did not give up in front of oppressor. He made people understand the
true meaning of the Hadith of Prophet (PBUH):
 “Best Jihad is to raise voice against tyrant ruler.”

12 Imams
1. Imam Ali bin Abu Talib (RA)
 Consult Booklet 2.2.
2. Hasan bin Ali (RA)
 Consult Grandchildren of Prophet (PBUH).
3. Hussain bin Ali (RA)
 Consult Grandchildren of Prophet (PBUH).
4. Imam Ali Zain-ul-Abidin (RA)
 Name and Titles: Ali Zain-ul-Abidin (RA), Sajjad.
 He was born in Madinah in 36th A.H and his mother was Persian origin daughter of Yezdagird who was the kind of
Persia.
 He was not feeling well and could not carry arms, which is why he could not participate in Karbala and outlived
other family members.
 He spent some time in prison and was allowed to go to Madinah. He used to spend most of his time in learning,
teaching and worshiping Allah. He was also a big charitable figure who used to spend a lot in charity.
 People would travel to Madinah just to be student of Imam Zain ul Abidin (RA).
 He died in 83 A.H.
5. Imam Muhammad Baqir (RA)
 He had great family lineage as he was the son of Imam Ali Zain-ul-Abidin (RA) was born in 57 A.H in Madinah and
her mother was Fatimah the daughter of Imam Hasan (RA).
 He also remained disconnected from political activities and revolts against governing clan.
 He dedicated his life to teaching and learning and had a big class of students who would come to learn from him.
 He died in 114 A.H.
 His period as Imam lasted for approximately 30 years.
6. Imam Jafar Sadiq (RA)
 He was the son of Imam Muhammad Baqir and was born in 83 A.H.
 He saw the end of Umayyad caliphate and rise of Abbasid caliphate.
 His early days were good and he lived a productive life focusing on educating the masses. He had big number of
students who would come to learn Hadith, Islamic Law and Jurisprudence and other sciences from him. Among his
students there were great scholars such as Imam Abu Hanifa (RA) and Sufyan Thawri (RA).
 Then comes his difficult period when he faced persecution firstly by an Umayyad caliph named Hisham and then
first 2 Abbasid caliphs also persecuted and tortured and imprisoned him.
 Even after getting freedom he was on the watch list of Abbasid caliphs as they considered him the biggest threat to
their government keeping in mind his reputation among people and their support towards him.
 He was poisoned on instruction of caliph Mansoor in 140 A.H.
 His period as Imam lasted for 34 years.
7. Imam Musa Kazim (RA)
 He was the son of Imam Jafar Sadiq (RA), he was born in 128 A.H.
 Abbasids policy of threatening and persecuting Imams remained continue as they felt insecure upon seeing
people’s love and affection towards Prophet’s (PBUH) family.
 Imam Musa Kazim (RA) also remained the target of Abbasid’s persecution and they kept him imprisoned for several
years.
 It is reported that he was also poisoned upon instruction of Abbasids and martyred in 183 A.H.
 His period as Imam lasted for 35 years.
8. Imam Ali Raza (RA)
 He was born in the family of Imam Musa Kazim in 148th A.H.
 Abbasid Caliphs continued with their policy of oppression against Imams as they considered them the reason
behind all the revolts against caliphate.
 Caliph Mamoon-ur-Rasheed decided to end all this and nominated Imam Ali Raza (RA) as his successor.
 Imam Ali Raza (RA) had all possible good things during this time and participated in educational and scientific
revolution which is also referred as Islamic Golden Age. He would participate in study circles related to Hadith,
Islamic Laws and comparative study of religion.
 But soon Mamoon changed his mind because of sectarian issues and decided to revoke the succession of Imam Ali
Raza.
 It is reported that Imam Ali Raza (RA) was poisoned on orders of Mamoon-ur-Rasheed in 203 A.H.
 He was buried in present city of Mash’had in Iran.
 His period as Imam lasted for 20 years.
9. Imam Muhammad Taqi (RA)
 He was born in Madinah in 195 A.H in the house of Imam Musa Kazim.
 Mamoon called him to Baghdad and offered him to marry his daughter. This was just to keep check on him and
take him under control.
 After sometime, he came back to Madinah and spent few peaceful years there.
 His generosity was famous as he would spend bulks in charity.
 It is reported that he was also poisoned by Abbasid caliph Mutasim in 220 A.H.
 His period as Imam lasted for 17 years.
 10. Imam Ali Naqi (RA)
 Imam Ali Naqi (RA) was born to Imam Musa Kazim in 212 A.H.
 He remained in Madinah after the death of his father.
 After few years, Abbasid Caliph Mutawakil called him to Samarra the capital of Abbasid in that era.
 Mutawakil launched a crackdown against the household of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and their followers. Being
the Imam and leader of the community, Imam Ali Naqi had to go through a lot of persecution, torture,
imprisonment, humiliation and threats.
 He faced everything with steadfastness and courage and kept leading the community for almost 33 years.
 He faced 7 Abbasid caliphs and the last one of them named Mu’tazz killed him in 254 A.H.
11. Imam Hasan Askari (RA)
 Imam Hasan Askari (RA) was the son of Imam Ali Naqi (RA) he was born in 232 A.H.
 He lived most of his life in isolation as he was under strict observation of Abbasid caliphates.
 Abbasids’ doubts got stronger when they got to know about a prediction that Imam Hasan Askari (RA) will have a
son who will be Imam Mehdi (RA).
 He died in 260 A.H and buried in Samarra city in Iraq next to his father’s grave.
12. Imam Muhammad Mehdi (RA)
 He was born in Samarra in 256 A.H.
 He could only live with his father for 4 years and had to bear a big responsibility of Imamat in very early age.
 Abbasids had already been in search of him which led him to go in occultation.
 First he went into minor occultation that started in 260 A.H and ended in 329 A.H. for these 69 years he never
appeared anywhere but kept communicating his devotees through different modes of communication.
 Then from 329 A.H he went into the major occultation that is still continued.
 He is believed to return from occultation nearby judgement day to fight injustice, kill Dajjal and solve all problems
of Muslim community.
__________________
 Scribes of Divine Revelation
Q (a) Outline the tasks performed by the Prophet’s scribes during his lifetime. [10][J/2017]
CAIE Marking Scheme
The Qur’an was written in its entirety during the Prophet’s time even though it was not compiled in one text. There were various
scribes who had different roles as companions, who wrote the verses down on a number of materials. They wrote on parchments,
bone, dried leaves, amongst other things.
Some of them were official scribes who wrote letters for him (for example Ubayy ibn Ka’ab) whilst some became scribes because
they kept their own personal copies of the revelations for example ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr ibn al-‘As. He sought the Messenger’s specific
permission asking, ‘May I write down everything I hear from you in the states of contentment and anger?’ He replied, ‘Yes, for I
speak nothing but the truth.’ A number of companions had their own personal copies of the words of the revelations, which were
later used to verify the one copy in the time of Abu Bakr. Companions who kept a private record of the text of the Qur'an satisfied
themselves as to the purity of their record by reading it out to the Prophet.
Some of the tasks of the scribes were writing letters and treaties, for example Abdullah ibn Masud was his regular scribe in charge of
writing and responding to letters. He was one of the scribes who wrote down all the Revelation as well as Zayd bin Thabit, who the
Messenger commanded to learn how to write Hebrew so that he could respond on his behalf to those who wrote to him in that
language,. ‘Ali was also an important scribe and wrote treaties for the Prophet.
The Prophet used to instruct the scribes about the sequence in which a revealed message was to be placed in a particular Surah
(chapter). In this manner, the Prophet arranged the text of the Qur’an in a systematic order till the end of the chain of revelations.
Zayd ibn Thabit reported, “We used to record the Qur’an from parchments in the presence of the Messenger of God. “Some
companions, who did not write down the revelations, had memorized them instead and their versions were used to verify the
written copies after the Prophet’s death.
Structure of Answer
Para 1 Para 2 Para 3
 Definition of Scribes.  Methodology of writing.  Significance of their work.
 Their intro and names.  Material of writing used.
 Quran was supposed to be preserved for upcoming generations as it was the guidance for whole humanity till the day
of judgement. Companions are ‘a group of companions that assisted him in compilation of Holy Verses of Quran and
other written tasks’.
 Alongside compilation of Quran, they also carried out other written tasks for Prophet (PBUH) like writing treaties and
assisting him in formal and informal correspondence.
 Like Ubayy bin Ka’ab learned Hebrew language to handle Prophet’s (PBUH) correspondence with Jews. Or Hazrat Ali
(RA) wrote the treaty of Hudaibiah.
 If we count all companions who fulfilled some written task at some point of time, the total number would be approx.
40. 8 of them were regular and official. Zaid bin Thabit (RA) (the chief Scribe), Ameer Muaviyah (RA), Ubayy bin Ka’ab
(RA), Abdullah bin Masood and 4 rightly guided caliphs.
 Once Abdullah bin Amr bin Aas (RA) a famous narrator of Hadith and scribe asked Prophet (PBUH):
 “Am I supposed to record everything I hear from you in states of anger and joy?”
Prophet (PBUH) replied while pointing towards his mouth:
 “Yes! Nothing comes out of that mouth except truth.”
 Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) paid special attention on getting verses of Quran written by these scribes.
 Prophet (PBUH) set some ground rules and adopted a pattern to preserve each and every word of revelation in
writing.
 One of these scribes would remain on standby and whenever a verse was revealed, Prophet (PBUH) would call
anyone of them and ask to write down the revelation.
 Then they were asked to read it loudly in front of the Prophet (PBUH), so he could listen and recheck if they have
recorded it perfectly and rectify if he found any mistake.
 Prophet (PBUH) would also give them clear instructions about the placement and sequence of every single verse that
 in which surah and which portion a particular verse was supposed to be placed.
 Materials used to write down the revelations were parchments, palm leaves and branches, flat stones, pieces of
wood, bones, paper sometimes.
 Zaid bin Thabit the chief scribe sums up the pattern of recording the revelation:
 "I used to write down the revelation for the Holy Prophet (PBUH). When the revelation came to him he felt
intense heat and drops of perspiration used to roll down his body like pearls. When this state was over I used to
fetch a shoulder bone or a piece of something else. He used to go on dictating and I used to write it down. When
I finished writing the sheer weight of transcription gave me the feeling that my leg would break and I would not
be able to walk anymore. When I finished writing, he would say, 'Read!' and I would read it back to him. If there
was an omission or error he used to correct it and then let it be brought before the people."
 Scribes played important role in making sure that every verse is preserved in writing left no stone unturned in making
sure that no verse is left without being in written form.
 As Prophet (PBUH) could not read or write so anyone of the official scribes would remain on standby so they can
instantly record the verses of revelation.
 They did not only focus on written preservation, they also memorized the verses of Quran and would revise it each
other. They motivated and assisted other companions to memorize the verses of Holy Quran. God forbids, even if
because of some reason written Quran is not widely available, huge number of memorizers of Quran will make sure
that a single dot or alphabet of Quran is not wasted or changed. Allah (SWT) said to Prophet (PBUH):
 “I am revealing for you a book that water cannot wash away” [Hadith Qudsi]
This means that Quran is not only preserved in writing but it is preserved in hearts of people that cannot be washed
away by water or any other catastrophe.
 Written compilation of scribes became very important when Quran was being compiled in the era of Abu Bakr (RA) as
those written compilations of Prophet’s (PBUH) era were the major and most authentic source of Quran.

Important Scribes
1. Zaid bin Thabit (RA) (The Chief Scribe)
 Zaid bin Thabit (RA) was among Helpers (Ansar) of Madinah. He was only 6 years old when his father died in Battle
of Buath leaving him orphan.
 He accepted Islam in his childhood and asked permission from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to participate in battles
of Badr and Uhud. Prophet (PBUH) refused referring to the minimum age limit of participating in armed encounter
which was 15 years.
 Zaid bin Thabit learned to read and write from a prisoner of battle of Badr who was given a chance to teach 10
Muslim children as his ransom and go free.
 Seeing his intelligence, Prophet (PBUH) added him in the group of scribes who were responsible of writing
revelations and doing written correspondence on behalf of Prophet (PBUH). Despite being so young, He worked
really hard and became the most important and chief scribe of Holy Prophet (PBUH).
 He had excellent command over Arabic, Assyrian and Persian languages. Prophet (PBUH) asked him to learn
Hebrew language saying:
 “O Zayd! Learn the language of Jews for me”
 He learned Hebrew and became responsible of correspondence with Jews. He would also write other official letters
and treaties whenever instructed by Holy Prophet (PBUH).
 He worked really hard to preserve verses of Holy Quran and transfer them to upcoming generations. He had
memorized Quran and also had a written compilation of a part of Quran.
 After the demise of Holy Prophet (PBUH) when 70 companions got martyred who were memorizers of Quran, upon
suggestion of Umar (RA) Abu Bakr decided to compile Quran in one booklet. The committee made by Abu Bakr (RA)
to execute this enormous and significant task was headed by Zaid bin Thabit (RA). His immediate response was:
 "I swear by Allah that if they had offered me to carry a mountain, I would have not found it more difficult than
compiling the Quran."
 But upon realizing the importance of this task, he left no stone unturned to complete this task in excellent manner.
He gathered Quranic verses from bones, parchments, wooden pieces, stones, palm leaves and most importantly
from people’s hearts. He completed this enormous task in one year and compiled Quran in a single booklet. That
booklet was kept by Abu Bakr (RA) then transferred to Umar (RA) then after him to his daughter and Prophet’s
(PBUH) wife Hafsah (RA). Therefore, it was named Mus’haf-e-Hafsah (The Booklet of Hafsah)
 He was entrusted by Umar (RA) whenever Umar (RA) would go to any expedition, He would designate Zaid (RA) as
deputy of Madinah. Umar (RA) said about him:
 "The people find in Zayd what they cannot find in other people."
 In the era of Uthman (RA) when Islamic caliphate expanded and different people from different regions of the
world started reciting Quran in their different dialects, disputes were observed by Anas bin Malik (RA) and Huzaifa
(RA) and were reported to Caliph Uthman bin Affan (RA). Uthman (RA) immediately responded to this problem and
asked Zaid bin Thabit once again to do the honors. Zaid (RA) once again worked really hard and resolved this issue
by selecting a standard dialect of Quran which was the dialect of Quraysh. He rechecked the new book with
Mus’haf-e-Hafsah and declared it the standard and official copy of Quran.
 The seekers of knowledge from among the companions of the Prophet and the generation, who succeeded them,
came from far and wide to benefit from his knowledge. When Zaid died, Abu Hurairah said: "Today, the scholar of
this Ummah has died."
 Zaid bin Thabit died in 45 A.H. Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) said while pointing out towards his grave:
 “Many scholars were buried with their knowledge but the Knowledge is buried like this.”
2. Abdullah bin Masood (RA)
 His name was Abdullah and title was Abu Abdul Rahman. Father’s name was Masood and mother was Umm-e-Abd.
 His first interaction with Prophet (PBUH) was when he was coming along with Abu Bakr and met Abdullah while he
was grazing sheep. Prophet (PBUH) asked for some milk as they both were tired and thirsty. Abdullah refused
stating that he is not the owner of sheep. Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) were touched by his honesty and this
interaction led to some other interactions that resulted in Abdullah’s (RA) acceptance of Islam.
 According to his own narration he was 6th convert to Islam. He was so close to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that he
had permitted him to enter his home anytime he wants. Even some people thought he was the family member of
Prophet (PBUH). He used to imitate Prophet (PBUH) as much as he could in appearance, habits and lifestyle.
Huzaifah (RA) said:
 “I do not know anyone more identical to Prophet (PBUH) in lifestyle and appearance than Abdullah bin Masood
(RA).”
 He migrated to Abyssinia twice and then migrated to Madinah. He participated in Battle of Badr and killed Abu
Jahal who was severely wounded in attack of Muaz and Muawwaz. He is reported to have actively participated in
Battle of Badr
 His work in preservation of Quran is exemplary. He wrote, memorized, understood and taught the Quranic verses
making one of the greatest servants of Quran. He himself says:
 “I had listened and memorized 70 Surahs directly from Holy Prophet (PBUH) while Zaid bin Thabit (RA) used to
play as a kid.”
 Prophet (PBUH) himself said about his skills and excellence in knowledge of Quran:
 “Whoever likes to recite the Quran accurately as it was revealed let him recite it the way the son of Umm-e-
Abd does it.”
 Once he met Umar bin Khattab (RA) who complimented him saying:
 “What a guy you are full of knowledge and understanding.”
 He died in 32 A.H in the era of Uthman bin Affan (RA) at the age of 60. Uthman (RA) led his funeral Prayer and he
was buried beside Uthman bin Maz’oon (RA).
 The Ten Blessed Companions
Q (a) Write about any two of the ten blessed Companions. [10]
 Ten Blessed Companions are those companions which were given the glad tidings of Paradise while they
were still alive.
 They are the most prominent and significant companions.
 Prophet (PBUH) Said:
 "Abu Bakr is in Paradise, 'Umar is in Paradise, 'Uthman is in Paradise, 'Ali is in Paradise, Talha is in
Paradise, Zubair is in Paradise, 'Abdul Rahman bin Awf is in Paradise, Saad bin Abi Waqas is in
Paradise, Saeed ibn Zaid is in Paradise, and Abu Obadiah bin Al-Jarrah is in Paradise."
1. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA)
 His real name was Abdullah and Abu Bakr was patronymic, father Uthman who’s patronymic was Abu Quhafa and
Mother Salma. He was born in 573 AD in one of the clans of Quraysh called Banu Taym.
 He was born in 573 AD 2 years after birth of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
 Abu Bakr (RA) was one of the most famous and successful cloth merchant of Makkah. He was 18 when he travelled
for trade purpose and later he travelled to Syria, Yemen and other destinations.
 Quraysh had distributed different duties among different clans, being the most patient, mature and visionary
person of Banu Taym he was the in charge of matters related to retaliation of murders and blood money. He was a
good poet and used to record history and people’s family details (family trees).
 Abu Bakr’s (RA) character was identical to Prophet (PBUH) even in pre-Islamic era. He always maintained distance
from adultery, idol worshiping, gambling, drinking and other social evils. He was childhood friend of Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH) and spent a lot of time together. According to narrations, Abu Bakr (RA) was involved in the
correspondence of Prophet’s (PBUH) marriage with Khadijah (RA).
 He was the first adult male to convert to Islam. Prophet (PBUH) said about him:
 “Everyone person whom I invited to Islam, gave it a thought whether to convert or not. Abu Bakr (RA) was the
only person who accepted the invitation of Islam without any hesitation.”
 He boosted the process of preaching Islam and inspired a lot of senior companions to embrace Prophet’s (PBUH)
message. List includes Uthman bin Affan (RA), Talha bin Ubaidullah (RA), Zubair bin Awwam (RA), Abu Ubaidah bin
Jarrah (RA), Khalid bin Saeed (RA), Saad bin Abi Waqas (RA) and Abdul Rahman bin Awf (RA).
 He suffered intense persecution for the sake of Allah and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Once He was attacked
along with Prophet (PBUH) and other companions. Utbah bin Waleed broke his nose and he got fainted because of
severe beating. People from his clan Banu Taym picked him up but he kept asking about if Prophet (PBUH) was fine.
This infuriated Banu Taym and they withdrew from his support. Once Uqba bin Abu Muit tried to strangle Prophet
(PBUH) who was offering Prayer. Abu Bakr (RA) defended Prophet (PBUH) by pushing Uqbah back and said:
 “May God’s curse be upon you, would you kill him who preaches Oneness.”
 Slaves were the most persecuted people among early converts. Quraysh would torture them and leave no stone
unturned in making them forego Islam. Abu Bakr (RA) bought and freed numerous slaves just to save them from
persecution upon guidelines of Prophet (PBUH). List includes Bilal Habshi (RA), Ammar (RA), Abu Fukayha (RA),
Amir bin Fuhayra (RA), Lubainah (RA), Zunairah (RA), Nahdia (RA) and Umm-e-Ubais (RA).
 He decided to migrate to Abyssinia which was a tough decision but he did it just to worship Allah in peace and
preach Islam. He reached Bark-ul-Ghamad where he met Ibn-ud-Daghna the chief of Qaara clan who brought him
back to Makkah and provided him protection from Quraysh’s persecution.
 Prophet (PBUH) gave him the title of Atiq and said:
 “You are free from Hell-fire.”
 He got the title of ‘Al-Siddique’ (The Testifier of Truth) when he believed in the incident of Mairaj without asking for
any logic or proof and stunned Quraysh with his loyalty and belief in Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
 In 622 AD he accompanied Prophet (PBUH) in the journey of migration to Madinah. Abu Bakr (RA)and Prophet
(PBUH) hid in the cave Thawr for 3 days because of search parties of Quraysh who were looking for them in order
to get the huge bounty set by Quraysh. Abdullah bin Abu Bakr (RA), Asma bint-e-Abu Bakr (RA) and Amir bin
fuhairah (RA) freed slave of Abu Bakr took care of food supply, milk and information regarding Quraysh evil plans. A
Quraysh raiding party reached the mouth of cave and Abu Bakr (RA) got scared because of the possibility that they
would hurt Prophet (PBUH) but He consoled him. This is narrated in Quran:
 “…when they were in the cave and he said to his companion, "Do not grieve; indeed Allah is with us..." [09:40]
 He played active role in the establishment of social and political structure of Madinian Islamic state. He paid 10
dinar and bought the piece of land for Prophet’s (PBUH) mosque from 2 orphans Sahal and Sohail. He physically
participated in the construction of Mosque. He was paired with Kharijah bin Zaid (RA) in the brotherhood
established between Emigrants and Helpers.
 He was the father in-law of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as his daughter Ayesha (RA) was the wife of Prophet
(PBUH). This strengthened the bond between Abu Bakr (RA) and Prophet (PBUH) and made them even more closer.
 Abu Bakr (RA) participated in all major battles as a good soldier, a trusted advisor of Prophet (PBUH) and a brave
personal guard of Prophet (PBUH). Hazrat Ali (RA) once declared him the bravest of all companions referring to his
valor when he agreed to Protect Prophet (PBUH) a night before Badr when others were a bit reluctant to take this
charge. Prophet (PBUH) would take most complex and highly significant advice from Abu Bakr (RA) believing in his
vision and extraordinary skills. He was among those 11 companions in Uhud and 7 companions in Hunain who
made a defensive ring around Prophet (PBUH) during initial defeat. He fulfilled key duties during all major battles.
 He donated every single penny from his property at the time of Tabuk expedition when Prophet (PBUH) requested
for donations. When he brought everything and Prophet (PBUH) asked that if he left something at home, he
replied:
 “Yes! Name of Allah and His Messenger (PBUH).”
 Once Ayesha (RA) asked Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) looking at the sky full of stars that is there anyone who has
good deeds equal to the amount of stars and she was expecting her father’s name in response. Prophet (PBUH)
mentioned Umar’s (RA) name which silenced Ayesha (RA). But then Prophet (PBUH) mentioned:
 “Umar’s (PBUH) total number of deeds during his full lifetime cannot beat Abu Bakr’s (PBUH) one night that he
spent protecting me in cave Thawr.”
 When Hajj became obligatory in 9th A.H, Prophet (PBUH) was busy with delegates and deputations of different
tribes who were coming to Madinah to accept/learn Islam. Prophet (PBUH) sent Abu Bakr (RA) as chief of Hajj
caravan along with 300 companions.
 He led 16-17 Prayers during the last illness of Prophet (PBUH) upon the instruction of Prophet (PBUH).
 Prophet (PBUH) said in his final short speech hours before his demise:
 “I have returned everyone’s favor upon me except for Abu Bakr (RA).”
 He calmed the believers at the time of Prophet’s (PBUH) demise and delivered a sermon that uplifted their morale.
2. Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA)
 He was born in 584 AD in the house of Khattab who belonged to Banu Adi clan of Quraysh.
 He was among very few literate people in Makkah who could read and write. He was also famous for his aggressive
and influential personality, and his skills in wrestling and other games.
 In early years of Islam, he remained hostile to Islam and Prophet (PBUH) and was very disturbed because of divide
and chaos in the society of Makkah. Prophet (PBUH) prayed for his conversion to Islam:
 “O Allah! Strengthen Islam by converting anyone from Umar bin Khattab or Amr bin Hasham (Abu Jahal).”
 Allah answered Prophet’s (PBUH) prayers in 6th year of Prophethood as once Umar (RA) was searching Prophet
(PBUH) with intention of killing him. His friend Nu’aym bin Abdullah (RA) informed him about conversion of his
sister Fatimah (RA) and brother in-law Saeed bin Zaid (RA) which infuriated him and he rushed to his sister’s place.
He listened to recitation of Quran by her sister and brother in-law which infuriated him further and he started
beating them. But seeing steadfastness of both, he was touched by their passion and asked to see the verses.
Fatimah (RA) asked him to get purified and then showed him verses of Surah Taha that left him spellbound and he
 reached house of Arqam (RA) to accept Islam.
 His conversion proved to be a great morale booster for Prophet (PBUH) and Muslims. Firstly, he openly declared his
conversion and then he made sure that Muslims offer Prayer in Kaabah without any hurdle.
 He remained a hard nut to crack and always stood against oppression of Quraysh. In 622 AD he migrated to
Madinah openly and challenged the warriors of Quraysh to stop him if they can. He reached Quba and stayed there
until Prophet’s (PBUH) migration. In brotherhood between emigrants and helpers, he was declared the brother of
Atban bin Malik (RA) who was the chief of Bani Salim.
 Umar (RA) was the one who had a dream about pattern of Azaan along with Abdullah bin Zaid (RA). Prophet
(PBUH) devised the mechanism of Azan to summon Muslims for Prayer.
 He remained the biggest supporter and trusted advisor of Prophet (PBUH) during his time with him in Madinah. He
was a visionary man and his analytical skills were even acknowledged by Allah as his 16-17 opinions were approved
by the verses of Quran. For instance order of veil or his opnion of chastity of Ayesha (RA) which were later
approved by the revelation by Allah.
 He actively participated in all major battles. He was so influential among his tribesmen that despite being non-
Muslim, not even a single member of Banu Adi participated in battle of Badr from Quraysh’s side. While 12
relatives and allies of Umar (RA) took part from Muslims’ side.
 After defeat in battle of Uhud, Umar bin Khattab (RA) led a group of companions to repel attack of Khalid bin Walid
who was marching to Prophet (PBUH) to harm/kill him.
 His daughter Hazrat Hafsah (RA) got married with Prophet (PBUH) in 3rd A.H in the month of Shaban which
strengthened his relation with Prophet (PBUH).
 He guarded the Trench in Battle of Trench and repelled attacks of Quraysh along with Zubair (RA). He got
emotional at the time of Treaty of Hudaibiah and refused to accept the treaty but later accepted when counselled
by Abu Bakr (RA). He was among those few companions who formed a defensive ring around Prophet (PBUH) and
protected him.
 He persuaded Muslims to accept Prophet’s decision to retreat when they could not capture Ta’if in 8th A.H. He
donated half of his belongings at the time of Tabuk expedition 9th A.H.
 He was the part of ‘Expedition of Usama bin Zaid’ that was sent by Prophet (PBUH) towards north to counter
Romans’ threat.
 He could not control his emotions when got to know about Prophet’s (PBUH) demise and started shouting while
carrying a sword:
 “Whoever claims that Prophet (PBUH) is dead, I will rip his head off.”
 Later on, he helped Abu Bakr (RA) in election as caliph and solved the crisis and difference of opinion at Saqifa bani
Saida. He was the one who prompted Abu Bakr (RA) to take action and compile Quran. He remained trusted
advisor and right hand of Abu Bakr (RA) and supported him through thick and thin during his tenure that was full of
chaos and problems.
3. Hazrat Uthman bin Affan (RA)
 He was born in 579 AD into the family of Affan who belonged to one of the most influential and strongest clan of
Makkah named Banu Umayyah. His mother was Arwa who belonged to Banu Hashim tribe making him one of the
most respectable people in Makkah in sense of clan affiliation.
 His father died while he was young leaving behind handsome amount of inheritance. Uthman decided to start
business and became one of the most successful merchants of Makkah.
 It reported that while coming back from a trade journey, he had a dream about indicating him to convert to Islam.
He discussed this dream with his friend Abu Bakr (RA) who had already converted and invited him to accept Islam.
Uthman accepted this invitation became one of the earliest converts to Islam.
 He faced severe persecution for the sake of Islam but he stood with courage and bravery and nothing could shake
his indomitable will. His uncle would torture him in order to compel him to renounce Islam. He would wrap him in
palm leaves and get him so close to the burning fire that he would scream but he never accepted the demand of his
uncle.
 He married Prophet’s (PBUH) daughter Ruqayyah (RA) and migrated to Abyssinia along with her. They remained
there for several years and returned to Makkah before migration to Madinah.
 He could not participate in battle of Badr as he was busy taking care of Ruqayyah (RA). Prophet (PBUH) gave him a
glad tiding that despite not being present on the field, he will get the distinction and reward of Badri companions.
Unfortunately, Ruqayyah (RA) could not survive and died right after battle of Badr.
 After the death of Ruqayyah (RA) Prophet (PBUH) offered him his second daughter Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA) which is
why he is known as ‘The Possessor of two Lights’.
 In 6th A.H when Prophet (PBUH) and Muslims were stopped by Quraysh from performing Umrah, He was sent by
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as special envoy to hold peace talks with Quraysh. He refused to perform Umrah
without Prophet (PBUH) that led to his arrest by Quraysh and rumor of his martyrdom was spread. Prophet (PBUH)
took pledge of Ridhwan to promise Muslims the revenge of Uthman (RA) but luckily he came back safe and sound.
 He participated in most major battles and expeditions and always supported Prophet (PBUH) by completing
different tasks given to him by Prophet (PBUH). He made immense contribution at the time of expedition of Tabuk
as he donated loaded camels with different stuff and a bag full of gold coins. Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “Nothing is going to harm Uthman (RA) from today regardless of whatever he does.”
 He made several financial contributions at different point of times. One of the most famous was when he bought
the well of Roma from a Jew who started selling water during famine in Madinah. He bought the well by spending
40 thousand Dirhams. This earned him another title ‘Al-Ghani’ (The Generous).
 Modesty was his distinguishing quality that made him stand out of others. Even Prophet (PBUH) would take care of
him as once Prophet (PBUH) was sitting casually and his legs were uncovered. Abu Bakr and Umar entered but he
did not change his position. But as soon as Uthman bin Affan (RA) came he stood and changed his position. Upon
question of Ayesha (RA) that why did he do so, Prophet (PBUH) responded:
 “Why wouldn’t I be modest in front of Uthman when even Angels of Allah do so for him?”
 He remained trusted advisor and fulfilled other tasks for first 2 caliphs. He was the one who wrote Abu Bakr’s (RA)
will about nomination of Umar bin Khattab (RA) as next caliph.
4. Hazrat Ali bin Abu Talib (RA)
 He was born in 601 AD in the house of Prophet’s (PBUH) beloved uncle Abu Talib. He was so attached with Prophet
(PBUH) that he brought to his place under his guardianship in order to give him mentoring and sharing the financial
load of his uncle.
 He was brought up by Prophet (PBUH) and Khadijah (RA) that made him a unique and excellent kid. Soon after the
first revelation, he saw Prophet (PBUH) and Khadijah offering Prayer and embraced Islam after inquiring Prophet
(PBUH) about Islamic faith and became the first child to convert to Islam.
 When Prophet (PBUH) was ordered by Allah to invite his kinsmen, Ali (RA) helped Prophet (PBUH) arrange a feast
along with Abu Talib. When Prophet (PBUH) presented the Islamic faith, the crowd became rowdy and everyone
become so aggressive. Ali (RA) showed his courage by standing up and declaring his faith in front of everyone which
made Prophet (PBUH) happy.
 At the time of migration, Prophet (PBUH) assigned him one of the most important duties of handing over the
belongings of Makkans to their owners. He did not care about his life and slept on Prophet’s (PBUH) bed, Quraysh
woke him up and locked him inside Kaabah, but he dealt with all this with steadfastness and courage.
 Later he migrated to Madinah; first he reached Quba, helped Prophet (PBUH) build the mosque of Quba. Upon
reaching Madinah, Prophet (PBUH) declared him his own brother during brotherhood between Emigrants and
Helpers. Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “You are my brother in this world and hereafter.”
 Number of companions wanted to marry Fatimah as this would have been a great distinction to marry the most
beloved daughter of Prophet (PBUH). Even Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA) sent their proposals but Prophet (PBUH)
remained silent. Finally, Ali (RA) sent marriage proposal and Fatimah was married to Ali (RA) in 2nd A.H.
 The marriage was example of decency and simplicity. Prophet (PBUH) asked Ali (RA) to arrange the expenditures of
marriage ceremony but he referred to his financial crisis. Prophet (PBUH) then reminded him about a shield that he
 owned in battle of Badr. Ali (RA) sold that shield and money was used to compensate expenditures of marriage that
included payment of some household items, refreshment for guests and some décor and perfumes. A companion
named Haritha bin Nauman gifted his house for accommodation of Ali and Fatimah. Fatimah settled in that home
after marriage as it was nearby Prophet’s (PBUH) home. They had She had 3 sons, Hasan, Husain and Mohsin (RA)
and 2 daughter Zainab and Umm-e-Kulsoom (RA).
 His military career is unbelievably strong and inspiring as he always led from the front and proved himself to be a
deadly warrior and fierce soldier of Islam. He killed Walid bin Utbah in one on one duel in battle of Badr. Did the
same to Abu Talha in in battle of Uhud. He along with Abu Dujana (RA) thrashed the army of Quraysh and left them
with only choice of fleeing from the battlefield. He formed the defensive ring around Prophet (PBUH). He killed
Amr bin Abdood in battle of Trench who was the symbol of power and courage among Arabs. He led the attack and
held the banner of Muslims in battle of Khyber. Muslims could not capture the fort of Qamus and 2 attacks were
repelled by Jews. Prophet (PBUH) announced:
 “Tomorrow I will give the banner to someone who loves Allah and His Prophet and he is beloved for them.”
Next day this distinction was awarded to Ali (RA) he captured the fort in single attack and killed the fiercest
swordsman of Arab named Marhab. Because of his extraordinary military career, he was given the title of
‘Asadullah’ (the lion of Allah).
 He was a prominent learned figure among companions as he was Prophet’s (PBUH) scribe. He would record
revelations and write letters and treaties for him. He was the one who wrote the treaty of Hudaibiah. He
memorized the verses of Quran and Prophet’s (PBUH) Hadiths, he even recorded some Hadiths in written and
would carry with him for inspiration in making decisions. Prophet (PBUH) said about him:
 “I am the city of knowledge and Ali is its gate.”
 He fulfilled some of the most important duties for Prophet (PBUH). Prophet (PBUH) sent him as announcer of
revelation during the first Hajj led by Abu Bakr (RA). He was left behind in Tabuk expedition to take care of
Prophet’s (PBUH) family. Prophet told him:
 “You are to me what Haroon (AS) was to Musa (RA).”
 While coming back from Farewell Pilgrimage, upon reaching Ghadir-e-Khum, Prophet (PBUH) regarded Ali (RA) as
his beloved companion and friend and said:
 “One Who Has Me As His Master Has Ali As His Master.”
 Being close relative and beloved companion of Prophet (PBUH), he embalmed his body and lowered him into the
grave inside Ayesha’s (RA) apartment.
 He was reluctant to give pledge of allegiance to Abu Bakr (RA) but he agreed to accept him and later Umar (RA) and
Uthman (RA) as caliphs. He even guarded Uthman during the siege of rebels and offered to fight and repel the
rebels but Uthman refused. He became 4th caliph after the martyrdom of Uthman bin Affan (RA).
5. Talha bin Ubaydullah (RA)
 Talha (RA) was born in 594 A.D in Makkah. He belonged to Banu Taym Clan of Quraysh Tribe. Father’s name was
Ubaidullah bin Uthman and Mother was Sa’bah.
 It is reported that he met a Christian priest during his trade visit to Busra at the age of 17. Priest told him about the
arrival of final Prophet based upon predictions of Bible. Upon coming back, he converted to Islam in response to
Abu Bakr’s (RA) invitation. He was one of the 8 early converts of Islam.
 He faced severe persecution and beating by Quraysh but his unshakable resistance and determination towards
Islam and Prophet (PBUH) was exceptional.
 In 13th Year of Prophethood/622 A.D he was coming back from Syria with a trade caravan while he met Prophet
(PBUH) and Abu Bakr (RA) migrating to Madinah. He went to Makkah delivered the goods to their owners and
accompanied Prophet’s (PBUH) family and remaining Muslims to Madinah.
 He Participated in all major battles except Battle of Badr, that too because he was sent on spy mission along with
Saeed bin Zaid (RA).
 During battle of Uhad when Quraysh launched a massive attack particularly targeting Holy Prophet (PBUH) some
companions encircled Prophet (PBUH) saving him by using their bodies as shields. Talha (RA) was one of them he
 took 70+ wounds and was given the title of “The Living Martyr” He participated in all Main battles, expeditions and
events including Battle of Trench, Treaty of Hudaibiah and Pledge of Ridhwan.
 He generously donated in Tabuk Expedition and was given another Title “The Generous”.
 After the sad demise of Holy Prophet (PBUH) he remained trusted companion and assistant of Abu Bakr (RA), Umar
(RA) and Uthman (RA). Even Umar Bin Khattab (RA) included him in the panel of 6 companions for potential caliph
but he withdrew in favor of Uthman and Ali (RA).
 After assassination of Uthman (RA) he demanded immediate punishment for Assassins of Uthman and participated
in Battle of Camel from Hazrat Ayesha’s (RA) side in 656 A.D and got martyred.
 Ali (RA) performed the funeral prayer over Talha, Zubair and all the other Muslims regardless of which side they
had fought on.
 Looking at the graves of Talha (RA) and Zubair (RA) he cried, and said that he had heard with his own ears the
Messenger of Allah (PBUH) say:
 “Talha and Az-Zubair are my neighbours in Paradise.” [Tirmidhi]
6. Zubair bin Awam (RA)
 Zubair (RA) was born in 694 A.D in the family of Awam bin Khuwaylid from Banu Asad and Safiya bint e Abdul
Mutalib from Banu Hashim. That makes him nephew of Hazrat Khadija and Cousin of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
 His father died in sacrilegious wars and left him orphan.
 He embraced Islam upon the invitation of Abu Bakr (RA). It is reported that he was the 5th person to accept Islam.
 He faced torture and persecution of Quraysh but he remained steadfast and kept supporting Holy Prophet (PBUH).
 Once when Zubair (Ra) heard that the Prophet (PBUH) was being attacked. So, he drew his sword and ran to the
Prophet (PBUH) and the Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “What are you doing?”
He said:
 “O Messenger of Allah! I heard that you were being attacked.”
Holy Prophet (PBUH) asked:
 “So what were you going to do then?
He said:
 “I was going to strike the one that was attacking you.”
So, this became the first sword drawn for the sake of Allah and his Prophet (PBUH).
 He migrated to Abyssinia to flee from persecution of Quraysh but came back after listening to a rumor about
conversion of Makki leadership to Islam which appeared to be false.
 Then in 622 A.D migrated to Madinah and put his efforts in establishing new born Caliphate of Islam. He
participated in all major battles as courageous and brave fighter.
 He was among those few companions who formed a human shield and guarded Prophet (PBUH) during battle of
Uhad. He put his life in danger and spied for Muslims during battle of Trench. In response Prophet (PBUH) said:
 “Every Prophet (PBUH) has a disciple. My disciple is Zubair.”
During Invasion of Khyber he confronted Yasir, brother of Marhab. He was a proven deadly gladiator but he
managed to kill him with the help of Allah.
 After the sad demise of Holy Prophet (PBUH) he remained trusted companion and assistant of Abu Bakr (RA), Umar
(RA) and Uthman (RA). Even Umar Bin Khattab (RA) included him in the panel of 6 companions for potential caliph
but he withdrew in favor of Uthman and Ali (RA).
 After assassination of Uthman (RA) he demanded immediate punishment for Assassins of Uthman and participated
in Battle of Camel from Hazrat Ayesha’s (RA) side in 656 A.D and got martyred.
 Ali (RA) performed the funeral prayer over Talha, Zubair and all the other Muslims regardless of which side they
had fought on. Looking at the graves of Talha (RA) and Zubair (RA) he cried, and said that he had heard with his
own ears the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) say:
 “Talha and Az-Zubair are my neighbours in Paradise.” [Tirmidhi]
7. Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah (RA)
 He was born in 583 AD in Makkah in the family of Abdullah who belonged to the clan of Banu Harith. His real name
was Amir but got more famous by his patronymic Abu Ubaidah.
 Abu Bakr (RA) invited him to Islam; he was touched by the honest and passionate invitation of Abu Bakr (RA). He
embraced Islam and became one of the earliest converts to Islam.
 Being the only Muslim of his tribe he had to suffer extreme persecution and torture from his own clan as well as
other bandits of Quraysh.
 He kept bearing everything with steadfastness and courage but Prophet (PBUH) instructed him to migrate to
Abyssinia in order to avoid Torture and persecution. He went to Abyssinia in 5th year of Prophethood in the 2nd
batch that comprised of 101 Muslims.
 In 622 he migrated to Madinah and was pared with Maaz bin Jabal (RA) in the brotherhood established between
Emigrants and Helpers.
 In 2nd A.H during battle of Badr he played crucial role in victory of Muslims. Quraysh were scared of his fierce
reputation and were hesitant in facing him. Somehow, he had to face his own father in the combat. He tried his
level best to avoid it but he had to kill his own father just for the sake of Islam. This was a great trauma for him but
he dealt with it with the help of Allah.
 He protected Prophet (PBUH) in battle of Uhud and lost his 2 teeth while removing metal discs of Prophet’s (PBUH)
shield that penetrated in Prophet’s (PBUH) cheeks. He bit into the discs and took the out but lost his teeth.
 He led one of the four columns of Muslim army during conquest of Makkah in 8th A.H and fulfilled the responsibility
handed over by Prophet (PBUH).
 After the demise of Prophet (PBUH) he was present at Saqifa Bani Saida when dispute arose over the succession of
Holy Prophet (PBUH). He helped Umar (RA) in convincing Helpers of Madinah to accept the right of Abu Bakr (RA)
as first caliph of Islam. his efforts paid off and Helpers agreed to step back and gave pledge of allegiance to Abu
Bakr (RA).
 He remained a prominent military figure in the era of Abu Bakr (RA) and Umar (RA) and fought several battles
against Persians and Romans.
 When Umar (RA) realized that people’s faith is being affected by the unbeatable and shining military career of
Khalid bin Walid (RA) and some had started thinking the Khalid (RA) is the only reason behind victory and
advancement of Muslim forces. Umar (RA) asked Khalid to step down and appointed Abu Ubaidah (RA) as
commander in-chief of Muslim army. Umar (RA) would give him so much regard as once he visited Syria and asked
people where my brother is and then met Abu Ubaidah with enthusiasm and love that left people spellbound.
 During the caliphate of Umar (RA) Syria was hit by a deadly plague that killed thousands of soldiers and other
Muslims. Umar (RA) ordered Abu Ubaidah (RA) to move out of the affected zone but he got affected by the illness
and died soon. This was 18th Year of Hijrah and he was 58 years old.
 Prophet (PBUH) regarded him in best possible words and said:
 “Every community has a Custodian and Custodian of my community is Abu Ubaidah (RA).”
 He used to prefer a person’s character and piety over his appearance and status. He used to say:
 “If I find piety in a person, he becomes me ideal whether he is black or white, free or slave, Arab or Non-Arab.”
8. Abdul Rahman bin Auf (RA)
 He was born in 589 AD in the family of Auf and Shifa. His parents named him Abdul Amr but Prophet (PBUH) called
him Abdul Rahman.
 He had modest and sophisticated personality and he had already abandoned the social evils such as gambling and
drinking vine. He was a successful merchant by profession and had handsome amount of luxuries.
 He was around 30 years old at the time of first revelation. Abu Bakr (RA) invited him to embrace Islam and he
converted to Islam as the 8th convert.
 Just like other converts, he also had to suffer extreme persecution and torture from his own clan as well as other
bandits of Quraysh.
 He kept bearing everything with steadfastness and courage but Prophet (PBUH) instructed him to migrate to
Abyssinia in order to avoid Torture and persecution. He migrated in the first batch that included 16 people in the
 month of Rajab 5th year of Prophethood. But came back after a rumor about change of condition in Makkah which
appeared to be false. He once again migrated to Abyssinia in 2nd batch that comprised of 101 Muslims.
 In 622 he migrated to Madinah and was paired with Saad bin Rabi during the brotherhood between Ansar and
Emigrants.
 His Islamic brother offered him half of his all belongings but he refused with thanks and asked about the market.
Where he started his own business and through utilizing his vast experience and hard work he soon became one of
the most successful merchants and richest companion of Madinah.
 He participated in all major battles. He tried to protect Umayyah bin Khalf just for the sake of his words as he had
given him protection. But Bilal Habshi (RA) and other were not ready to spare Umayyah, Abdul Rahman tried his
level best to protect Umayyah, he even sustained injuries in the process but he could not save him. Later Prophet
(PBUH) calmed down both of them. He led the expedition of Duma-tul-Jandal along with 700 men and achieved
strategic goals.
 Being very rich, he always supported Islam through his wealth and responded to Prophet’s (PBUH) call whenever
he asked for financial assistance. One of such occasions was expedition of Tabuk when he donated handsome
bucks to support the cause of Jihad against Romans. Once he donated all goods of his trading caravan loaded on
700 camels among poor and downtrodden people of Madinah.
 He always assisted family members, relatives and companions of Prophet (PBUH) including Mothers of faithful.
 He enjoyed key positions in the era of first 3 caliphs. Fulfilled his responsibility at its best as the Leader of Hajj
during all 3 tenures.
 He died in 31 A.H in the era of Uthman bin Affan (RA) while he was 75 years old.
9. Saad bin Abi Waqas (RA)
 He was born in 593 AD in the family of Abu Waqas who belonged to Banu Zohra the tribe of Prophet’s (PBUH)
mother Amina bint-e-Wahab (RA). He was Prophet’s (PBUH) maternal uncle and Prophet (PBUH) was reported to
be happy about this fact. Once Prophet (PBUH) saw him coming and said:
 “This is my maternal uncle, let a man see his maternal uncle.”
 He was a great archer and good at making arrows and bows. He always remained in search of the meaning of life as
he wanted to uncover the reason of life. He managed to find about Prophet (PBUH) and his message through Abu
Bakr (RA) who invited him to accept Islam. He accepted Islam and enlisted among top 10 companions who
accepted Islam before all others.
 He also faced persecution and torture of Quraysh but remained steadfast during everything. His own mother tried
to blackmail him emotionally by going on hunger strike until Saad renounce his new religion and convert back to
worshiping idols. Saad (RA) made his mother understand his devotion for Islam by not giving up on his religion
which allowed her to understand and he ended the hunger strike.
 He migrated to Abyssinia in order to flee from Quraysh persecution and practice Islam freely.
 His military career is extraordinary as he participated in all major battles and worked in different capacities to
achieve important goals. He was the first to shoot an arrow from Muslims’ side that happened in a small expedition
before battle of Badr. He was among those few companions who formed defensive ring around Prophet (PBUH) to
save him from Quraysh’s attack. Prophet (PBUH) would motivate him to keep shooting arrows by saying:
 “O Saad! Shoot arrows, may my parents be sacrificed on you.”
He was present on all major battles and expeditions and played key role in supporting Prophet (PBUH) at all times.
 He was given special recognition and respect by 2nd caliph Umar bin Khattab (RA) who made him commander in-
chief of Muslim army advancing in Persia. Despite being severely ill and not being able to walk he led the Muslim
army in the fiercest battle fought in the history of Islam called the battle of Qadisiyyah. He kept giving directions
from a rooftop and kept a hawk eye on the battle field. It was his matchless command and valor of Muslims that
Muslim army managed to crush Sassanid forces.
 Hazrat Umar (RA) would trust him so much that he included his name in the committee of 6 senior most
companions to be elected as potential caliphs. Though, he refused to take this responsibility and surrendered his
right in the favor of Uthman bin Affan and Ali (RA).
 He remained governor of Kufa for 4 years but later he was replaced by Walid bin Uqbah.
 He retired from politics during the civil wars and started living in a home in outskirts of Madinah some 10 miles
away from the main city named Aqeeq and distanced himself from chaos of politics and power. He died in 674 AD
and was buried in Baqee’.
10. Saeed bin Zaid (RA)
 He was born in 593 AD in Makkah in the family of Zaid and Fatimah. Zaid was among those rightful people who
maintained distance from idol worshiping and were still following the true spirit of religion of Ibrahim named Deen-
e-Hanif. Zaid inspired his son to stay away from all social evils and focus on spiritual enlightenment and search of
truth.
 He accepted Islam while he was not even twenty years of age and became one of the earliest converts to Islam.
 He married the sister of Umar bin Khattab named Fatimah which was the reason that he had to hide his conversion
because of the fear of Umar and Khattab. Saeed and Fatimah (RA) were reciting the verses of Holy Quran when
Umar reached and started beating them and them both got severely wounded which made Umar (RA) rethink his
aggression and later he converted to Islam.
 He suffered persecution of Quraysh. He had to migrate to Abyssinia in order to avoid Quraysh’s persecution and
torture.
 He migrated to Madinah and was given a difficult task of spying over enemies along with Talha bin Ubaidullah (RA).
This is why he could not participate in battle of Badr that disturbed him but Prophet (PBUH) consoled him and said
that he will get the reward of Badri companions.
 He remained an active part of Islamic society putting his maximum efforts whenever needed by Prophet (PBUH) or
anyone else. He participated in all major battles and expeditions including Uhud, Trench, Banu Quraizah, Treaty of
Hudaibiah, Invasion of Khyber, Conquest of Makkah and Hunain.
 Abu Bakr (RA) used to honor him and take council from him about the important matters. It is reported that he was
among few companions who were consulted by Abu Bakr (RA) regarding his succession.
 Umar (RA) utilized his skills and gave him command on armies marching in Syria and Palestine. He always led from
the front and defeated huge Roman armies with handful of soldiers though his excellent strategy and faith in Allah.
He was also present in the battle of Yarmouk and his extraordinary valor helped Muslims win this war.
 He also started living in Aqeeq a place in outskirts of Madinah. He died in 51 A.H was bathed by Saad bin abi Waqas
(RA) and his funeral was led by Abdullah bin Umar (RA).

Q (a) Write briefly about the conversion to Islam of Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman and ‘Ali. [10]
Expand on these points
Abu Bakr (RA): close friend of the prophet from childhood and amongst the first to convert (first free adult male); he
became Muslim without hesitation; was open about calling others to the new faith and persuaded many to accept
Islam; he purchased slaves and set them free; he was the first person to openly invite people to the new faith and was
beaten severely.
‘Umar (RA): he was initially angry at the prophet and the new message he was preaching and set out to kill him; on his
way he was told his own sister and brother-in-law had converted and so went there; overheard recitation of part of
sura Ta Ha; when he read the words himself he went to accept Islam; he had a reputation of being the fiercest man in
Makkah and so his conversion provided Muslims some protection; he fought Quraysh until Muslims could pray at the
Ka’ba.
Uthman (RA): he converted at the hands of Abu Bakr; was the third male convert; his family deserted him after his
conversion; he was married to the Prophet’s daughter Ruqayyah soon after; amongst the first group to migrate to
Abyssinia.
Ali (RA): he was a cousin of the prophet who had been taken into the prophet’s household to alleviate the financial
burden on his family; one of the first Muslims (only ten when he accepted Islam); when the prophet openly invited
others to come to Islam, only ‘Ali stepped forward to help him; for this ‘Ali was made the prophet’s brother and vice-
regent; caused ridicule amongst Quraysh who laughed at the thought of elders obeying Ali. Ali (RA) stood firm during
persecutions.

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 Important Companions
Abu Hurairah (RA)
 Abu Hurairah was born in Yemen in the tribe of Daws. It is located in the region of Tihamah alongside the
coast of Red Sea. He was named Abd-ul-Shams (The Servant of Sun). His father died leaving him orphan
and no one take care of him.
 He accepted Islam upon the call of the leader of his tribe Tufail bin Amr Dawsi (RA) in 7 th A.H.
 Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) looked after the mosque when Holy Prophet (PBUH) went on to campaign in
Khyber. He made it a regular habit to give the leftover food to stray cats. Gradually the number of cats
around the Masjid increased and he loved to take care and play with them. Once our Beloved Prophet
(PBUH) saw Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) playing with some cats, to which He called him as Abu Hurairah
(Father of kittens). Since then he (RA) preferred to be known as Abu Huraira.
 He then dedicated his life to learn the knowledge of Quran and Hadith. He would stay at an empty plot
beside Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque called ‘Suffah’. He would spend most of his time in asking questions,
learning Hadiths from Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
 He transmitted 5374 Hadiths which is most by anyone from Prophet’s (PBUH) companions.
 Narrated Abu Hurairah: “People say that I have narrated many Hadiths. Had it not been for two verses
in the Qur'an, I would not have narrated a single Hadith, and the verses are: "Verily those who conceal
the clear sign and the guidance which We have sent down ... (up to) Most Merciful." (Al-Baqarah
2:159-160). And no doubt our Emigrant brothers used to be busy in the market with their business and
our Helper (Ansar) brothers used to be busy with their property (agriculture). But I used to stick to
Allah's Apostle contented with what will fill my stomach and I used to attend that which they used not
to attend and I used to memorize that which they used not to memorize.”
 The collection of Hadith compiled by Abu Hurairah (RA) is the major part of different books of Hadith and
foundation of Islam is built upon a lot of important narrations transmitted by him.
 He worked twice hard after the demise of Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to spread the Hadith of Holy
Prophet (PBUH) and taught it to a lot of companions and successors.
 Hazrat Abu Huraira (R.A) passed away in 59 AH at the age of 78 and is buried in Janna-tul-Baqee.
Hamza (RA)
 Although Hamza (RA) was Prophet’s (PBUH) uncle but he was just 2 years older than him. He was also
foster brother of Prophet (PBUH) because both were suckled by their family female-slave Umm-e-Aimen.
 He remained neutral in early years of Prophet (PBUH) preaching Islam. He never opposed him but did not
show his interest in Prophet’s (PBUH) message.
 Yet his brotherly love made him defend Prophet (PBUH) from Abu Lahab when he was teasing Prophet
(PBUH) and throwing trash in front of Prophet’s (PBUH) doorstep. He stopped his elder brother and
talked to him in harsh tone just out of Prophet’s (PBUH) love.
th
 It was 6 year of Prophethood, once Prophet (PBUH) was seated on Safa when Abu Jahl happened to pass
by and attacked the religion preached by him. The prophet Mohammad (PBUH) however, kept silent and
did not utter a single word. Abu Jahl went on unchecked, took a stone and cracked the Prophet’s head,
which began to bleed. The aggressor then went to join the Quraysh in their assembly place. Hamza (RA)
was coming back from a hunting expedition, when he got to know about this aggression of Abu Jahal.
Hamza rushed upon him and struck his bow upon his head violently and said: "Ah! You have been abusing
Mohammad; I too follow his religion and profess what he preaches." Hamza embracing Islam proved to
 be a great morale booster for Muslims.
 When Muslims feared that Umar would kill Prophet (PBUH), Hamza (RA) was the one who stepped
forward and said:
 “Let him come. If he is here with good intention, we will welcome him. Will snatch his sword and rip
his head off if he tries to harm Prophet (PBUH).”
 He migrated to Madinah and remained an important figure in establishing and strengthening the new
born Islamic empire in Madinah.
 In Ramadan, first A.H Prophet (PBUH) sent him as a leader to 30 Emigrants to interrupt a trading caravan
of Quraysh led by Abu Jahal. This mission is called ‘Saif-ul-Bahr’ which was the first expedition of Islam.
 He was carrying the banned of Islam in the first ever Ghazwa named Ghazwa Ibwa.
 He played important role in the battle of Badr by killing Utbah and fighting courageously in general
combat.
 He also fought courageously in battle of Uhud but was martyred by Wahshi bin Harb who was a slave of a
Makkan named Jubair bin Mut’im. Wahshi was given guarantee to be freed if he kills Hamza (RA). He was
an excellent javelin thrower, he kept waiting for a chance and aimed Hamza (RA) while he was busy
fighting with a Makkan, Hamza (RA) got martyred on spot.
 Hind bin Utbah ripped open the liver of Hamza and chewed it; but finding it unpleasant, she spat it out.
She even made the ears and noses of Muslims into anklets and necklaces.
 He was given the title of ‘The Chief of Martyrs’.
Bilal (RA)
 Hazrat Bilal (RA) was a black African primarily belonging to the Western Arabia. He was born in Abyssinia,
also known as Ethiopia in the 6th Century A.D. His father, Rabah was an Arab and his mother, Hamama
was basically an Abyssinian. Both of his parents were in custody of a rich Qureshi person in Makkah
known as Umayyah ibn Khalf, thus he grew up as an enslaved child. He had to go through a lot of
difficulties in his acceptance of Islam being a slave at the hands of non-believers.
 Bilal (RA) was one of the earliest converts and the reason of his conversion became his own master
Umayya when he gathered notables of Quraysh to discuss the strategy to counter Prophet’s (PBUH)
preaching of Islam. Bilal (RA) heard their talk and decided to meet Prophet (PBUH) and in first meeting he
embraced Islam.
 Then starts the inhuman persecution of Bilal (RA) Umayyah would tie a rope around his neck and ask
street boys of Makkah to drag him across the city of Makkah and beat him. Then they would drag him to
scorching hot desert and made him lie down on burning sand and place a rock on his chest so he could
not move. They would keep beating him in this condition and ask him to renounce Islam but his only
answer would be:
 “He is One, He is One”
 He was bought and freed by Abu Bakr (RA) on instructions of Holy Prophet (PBUH). Umayyah asked for
double price but Abu Bakr (RA) did not care about money and ended Bilal’s misery by freeing him.
 He remained in Madinah as active member of Muslim community and migrated to Madinah where he
became the first Muezzin of Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque. His voice was too loud and foreigner accent was a
bit different and beautiful which Prophet (PBUH) seemed to like a lot. Some people criticized his Azaan
but Prophet (PBUH) defended and silenced all critics.
 He left Madinah after the demise of Holy Prophet (PBUH) and never proclaimed Azaan again.
 Once he visited Madinah and upon being persuaded by Hasan and Husain (RA) he proclaimed Azaan and
whole Madinah got emotional. People relived the time of Prophet (PBUH) rushed to the Mosque and
 everyone in congregation was crying.

Abu Sufyan (RA)

 Abu Sufyan’s real name was Sakhr bin Harb. He belonged to an important and influential clan of Quraysh
‘Banu Umayyah’.
 Banu Umayyah and Banu Hashim had been rivals for several years over the leadership of Makkah. So, Abu
Sufyan also opposed Prophet (PBUH) and his message just because he was from Banu Hashim.
 He opposed Prophet (PBUH) in every aspect of life but never used direct physical violence against Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH).
 Although, he remained an active part of persecution against other Muslims.
 He was leading a trading caravan of Quraysh from Syria to Makkah when Muslims tried to interrupt him.
He wrote a letter to Abu Jahal asking his help, he immediately responded and marched to Madinah with
well-equipped army of 100 soldiers. Abu Sufyan changed the route and reached Makkah safely after
dodging Muslims. He then tried to top Abu Jahal mentioning that now there’s no need to fight but Abu
Jahl arrogance led him to his own other 69 members’ death and shameful defeat at Battle of Badr.
 He lead Quraysh in Battle of Uhud and Trench.
 He tried to restore the treaty of Hudaibiah, he even tried to involve his daughter Ramlah (Umm-e-
Habibah) who was Prophet’s (BPUH) wife, but had to return to Makkah unsuccessful.
 Upon conquest of Makkah he was given proper respect and recognition by Prophet (PBUH), Prophet
(PBUH) announced that whoever takes protection in house of Abu Sufyan will be pardoned.
 He then embraced Islam and participated in Battle of Hunain and Siege of Ta’if. He lost his one eye when
he was hit by an enemy’s arrow right into his eye.
 He became the governor of Najran and Hijaz in the era of Abu Bakr (RA).
 Then he fought in Battle of Yarmouk in the era of Umar bin Khattab (RA) and lost his second eye as well.
 He died in 650 AD in Madinah.

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