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’ah (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-Khuwaylid
❑ Khadija was born in 556 AD in the house of one of the wealthiest men of Makkah named Khuwaylid
bin Asad.
❑ Her father was killed in battle of Fujar and Khadija inherited his wealth. 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 they 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 business but she was not satisfied with most people.
❑ When she heard about Prophet’s (PBUH) honesty and dedication, she hired him to take care of her
business.
❑ In 594 AD, Prophet (PBUH) took her merchandise to Syria accompanied by her trusted slave
Myserah. Upon coming back, she decided to send him marriage proposal through Her friend
Nafisah. His reputation and Myserah’s praise convinced her to do so. The proposal was accepted by
the Prophet (PBUH) and his uncle Abu Talib.
❑ They got married in 595 AD when he was 25 and she was 40 years old. They had 6 children together
Qasim and Abdullah (Tayyab and Tahir are his titles) were 2 sons and Zainab, Ruqayyah, Umm-e-
Kulthoom and Fatimah were 4 daughters.
❑ 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 to get ready for revelations. Later on, her wealth
 played major role in the mission of serving and spreading Islam in early years of Makkah. Allah
describes it in Surah Duha:
 “And He found you in need and made [you] self-sufficient.” [93:08]
❑ How she consoled Prophet (PBUH) after the first revelation was extraordinary. Firstly, she covered
him with 2 blankets providing him physical comfort and sense of protection. Secondly, she listened
to him without any judgement or interruption. Lastly, she uplifted his morale by mentioning his
character and qualities:
 “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 Naufal to get the interpretations of this event.
❑ She was the first one to accept Islam which was a great morale booster and excellent beginning of
his mission.
❑ Her moral support and encouragement were vital in his difficult days 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 in her lifetime. Once, he
complemented her:
 “The Noblest women of the world are Maryam (AS) and Khadija (RA)”
❑ She died in 10th Year of Prophethood/619 AD and the year is called ‘the Year of Grief’.
❑ Upon question of Ayesha (RA) that what is so special about Khadijah (RA) he replied:
 “She believed in me when everyone 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 (RA) and her husband Sakran bin Amr 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.
They came back to Makkah after few years and after some time, Sakran died leaving behind a son
named Abdul Rehman.
❑ Prophet (PBUH) was left shattered after the sad demise of 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 (RA) 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 of 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 Ruku to an extent
that she got tired. After the Prayer, she expressed her concern in a funny way that she had to hold
her nose to prevent potential bleeding, this made Prophet (PBUH) laugh out loud.
❑ Ayesha describes her generosity:
 “She would process the animal skins brought from Taif and used to spend her hard-earned
money 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 he loved her and enjoyed 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-Sahih.

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

➢ During the lifetime of Prophet (PBUH):
❑ Hazrat Ayesha (RA) was the daughter of the closest friend of Prophet (PBUH) Abu Bakr (RA) and her
mother’s name was Zainab Umm e Roman.
❑ The 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 2 nd AH.
She was the only bachelor girl that Prophet (PBUH) married.
❑ 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. A Quranic verse was revealed to offer them wealth but they will be
divorced by the Prophet (PBUH). Ayesha (RA) after consulting with all wives, represented them and
solved the crisis with her good communication skills:
 “Indeed, I desire God and His Messenger and the abode of the Hereafter,”
❑ Ayesha (RA) endured poverty and hunger with the Prophet (PBUH). It is authentically related that
months went by without any food being cooked, they simply survived on dates and water but
never complained.
❑ While coming back from Battle of Banu Mustaliq, Ayesha (RA) lost her way and got separated from
the group and she was rescued by a companion Safwan (RA). Hypocrites made fuss over it by
accusing her of adultery and assassinating her character. Even some true Muslims fell for this
propaganda 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 (RA) 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 everyone started looking for it.
 There was no water with the caravan and the time of Prayer was running out. Allah revealed the
verses of dry ablution (Tayammum). People who were disturbed earlier, were no pleased and
thanked Abu Bakr (RA) and Ayesha (RA).
❑ Prophet (PBUH) spent his final days at her apartment and she took great care of him. She would
stay awake to take care of him managing all his needs and providing him maximum comfort.
Prophet (PBUH) was buried in her apartment. She used to mention his last moments emotionally
talking about how he took his last breath in my arms and even his grave is in her apartment.
➢ After Prophet’s (PBUH) demise:
❑ After Prophet’s (PBUH) sad demise, she spent most of her time guiding and mentoring Muslim
community whenever they needed 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 and source of inspiration and learning for the
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 and critic according to the requirement
of different times and situations.
❑ During Ali’s (RA) caliphate, she along with other prominent companions campaigned for immediate
Qisas (Retaliation) of 3rd caliph, Uthman bin Affan (RA). Ali (RA) had his reasons and issues he had
to fix and the delay in action led to a civil war among Muslims.
❑ The battle of Camel (also called first fitnah) was fought in 656 AD between Ali (RA) and Ayesha
(RA). Ayesha’s (RA) supporters took over cities of Iraq which pushed Ali (RA) to retaliate. At one
point, both armies agreed to establish a treaty but due to some conspirators, the war began.
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 was heartbroken after loss of life in battle of Camel and spent her remaining life in Madinah.
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)

❑ She was born 5 years before Prophethood in Makkah in the house of Umar bin Khattab (RA) and
Zainab bint-e-Mazoon.
❑ 1st she was married to Khunais bin Hazafa Sahmi (RA) who was among the early converts.
❑ Hafsah (RA) migrated to Abyssinia along with her husband and later came back to Makkah. Later in
622 AD, they migrated to Madinah together.
❑ Khunais (RA) fought in battle of Badar with bravery and courage but was severely wounded. He died
upon coming back to Makkah leaving Hafsah widowed in very young age.
❑ Hazrat Umar (RA) was deeply concerned about her daughter’s mental health she wasn’t doing good
all alone in such young 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 (RA) to Uthman (RA) and He himself married Hafsah in
 the month of Shaban 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 also transmitted 60 Hadith
and 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 demise, 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 Mu’awiyah (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 from Banu Makhzoom clan. His titles were ‘The
Most Generous Man of Arab’ and ‘The 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), 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 after the first revelation.
❑ They both were among the first batch of emigrants who migrated to Abyssinia in 5 th year of
Prophethood in the month of Rajab. But they came back to Makkah after few years.
❑ Abu Salma (RA) was among the earliest emigrants to Yathrib, but Umm-e-Salma was stopped from
migrating as her clan wouldn’t allow their blood to leave Makkah. They even threatened to snatch
 her son if she plans on migrating. Somehow, she managed to migrate to Madinah and lived there
peacefully with her husband. They had four children together.
❑ Abu Salma got severely wounded in battle of Uhud and later got martyred because of the 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 ex-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 wedding 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 the Prophet (PBUH) in the journey of Treaty of Hudaibiah in 6 th year of Hijrah.
After the treaty was signed and Quraysh arrested a Muslim of Makkah named Abu Jundal, everyone
got very 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 anger and trauma. Umm-e-Salma
suggested the Prophet (PBUH) to start sacrificing his animals and shaving his head. Upon seeing
Prophet (PBUH) doing rituals, everyone stood up and followed him and left for Madinah after
completing the rituals. That’s how Umm-e-Salma’s (RA) intellect helped solve a dead lock with her
great suggestion.
❑ She was a great supporter and wise counselor, which is why Prophet (PBUH) used to take her to
maximum journeys and expeditions. She accompanied him during 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 her 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 Barrah but later Prophet (PBUH) changed it to 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 (RA) being
a former slave and difference in social and financial status. Upon request of Prophet (PBUH), they
agreed and Zaid married Zainab.
❑ But very soon, their differences did not allow them to live together and they had to get divorced.
Prophet (PBUH) tried his level best to mediate but even he couldn’t stop 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 a proper background and planning of Allah behind this marriage as it cancelled the Arab
norm of considering adopted son a part of actual bloodline. 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 her death and afterlife that she had prepared her shroud. She
would receive twelve thousand Dirham from Umar (RA) as stipend, which she would distribute
among poor. 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 her cousin Musaafay bin Safwan.
❑ 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 (PBUH) marched towards Muraysi’ a pond/well owned by Banu
Mustaliq.
❑ Banu Mustaliq attacked on Muslim army but could not hold the ground when Muslims responded.
They faced heavy losses as some of their men lost their lives including Javeria’s husband and 600
were taken as captives.
❑ Initially, Javeria was handed over to Sabit bin Qais (RA) as a slave. But later Prophet (PBUH) secured
her freedom and honored her with marriage.
❑ This marriage had great humanitarian impact as all slaves of Banu Mustaliq were freed by the
companions 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 asked for her daughter’s
freedom. Prophet (PBUH) agreed and requested him to check from his daughter. Her response was:
 “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 she 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
personalities 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 2 nd 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.
❑ During the time of chaos and uprising against Uthman (RA), she was the one who always stood up
for him and put every possible effort to protect Uthman (RA) from the rebels.
❑ 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-Huyyay (RA)

❑ She was the daughter of Banu Nadhir’s chief Huyyay 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 highly significant and important people.
❑ At 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 Abul 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. Her parents named her Barrah but later Prophet (PBUH) changed it to Maimoonah
(RA) which means full of blessings.
❑ She was the maternal aunt of Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) and Khalid bin Waleed (RA).
❑ She first married Masood bin Amr Thaqfi but they got separated soon.
❑ She then married Abu Raham who also died after some time.
❑ Later in 7th AH, Prophet (PBUH) was going to offer Umrah-al-Qadha, his uncle Abbas (RA) requested
him to marry Maimoonah. Prophet (PBUH) agreed and sent Jafar bin Abu Talib to her 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 from 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.
❑ Banu Quraizah were bound to help Muslims defend Madinah. But they teamed up with Quraysh
during battle of Trench and planned to backstab 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)

❑ In 6thA.H Prophet (PBUH) started sending letters to different emperors. One such letter was carried
by Hatib (RA) to the king of Egypt Muqawqis.
❑ Muqawqis did not convert to Islam but gave immense respect to Prophet’s (PBUH) ambassador and
sent him back loaded with gifts including a slave girl 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 the 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 in 600 AD.
❑ Upon her mother’s wish, she was married to her cousin Abul Aas bin Rabi. She embraced Islam while
her husband remained non-believer.
❑ Quraysh tried to convince Abul Aas to divorce Zainab (RA) in order to disturb the Prophet (PBUH)
but he refused and defended his relation with Zainab (RA) by saying:
 “I will not prefer any other woman over Zainab as she is the noblest lady”
❑ She could not migrate to Yathrib 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 by Muslims as
prisoner. In his ransom, Zainab (RA) sent a necklace of Khadija (RA) that she got from her on her
wedding. Prophet (PBUH) got emotional upon seeing the necklace of his beloved wife and returned
Abul Aas along with the necklace but asked him to send Zainab (RA) to Madinah.
❑ Upon his return, Abul Aas asked his brother Kinanah to escort Zainab and lead her to Zaid bin
Haritha (RA) who waited outside Makkah. Some men from Quraysh chased her and Habbar bin
Aswad attacked Zainab (RA) with his spear and she fell down from her camel. In this incident, Zainab
(RA) suffered a miscarriage and lost a great deal of blood.
❑ 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 at Madinah.
❑ 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.

2. Ruqayyah (RA)
❑ Ruqayyah (RA) was born in 601 AD.
❑ Before Islam, she was given in Nikah of Abu-Lahab’s son Utbah. But soon after family and public
preaching, Abu Lahab became 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 stood by each other during the period of
persecution and torture.
❑ In 615 AD, they migrated to Abyssinia in order to have happy and stable life. Later, they migrated to
Yathrib 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. He condition got worse and she couldn’t survive. Uthman (RA)
and others buried her moments before Zaid bin Haritha (RA) brought the news of victory of battle of
Badr.
❑ She had a son named Abdullah who died at the age of 6.

3. Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA)
❑ Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA) was born in 603 AD.
❑ Before Islam, she was given in Nikah of Abu-Lahab’s son Utaybah. But soon after family and public
preaching, Abu Lahab became enemy of Prophet (PBUH) and was highlighted in Surah Lahab, he
ordered his son to divorce Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA).
❑ 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).
❑ She was married to Uthman (RA) in 2nd A.H after death of Ruqayyah (RA).
❑ 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 lowered 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).
❑ She was born in 605 AD.
❑ Her titles were Zahra and Batool.
❑ She was very close to Prophet (PBUH) and he also loved her a lot. She would get upset upon seeing
her father facing inhuman persecution by Quraysh. Once Quraysh decided to disturb Prophet
(PBUH) while he was offering Prayer and Uqbah bin Abu Muit put a camel intestine on Prophet’s
(PBUH) back while he was in prostration. Fatimah (RA) came and tried to remove it.
❑ Being the youngest, she was attached to Khadijah (RA) and her demise affected her badly.
❑ Prophet’s (PBUH) second wife Sawdah (RA) who was a loving woman took great care of Umm-e-
Kulthoom and Fatimah. Fatimah (RA) established a strong bond with Sawdah (RA) and she also loved
her very much.
❑ 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 Prophet
(PBUH) accepted it.
❑ 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 got in the spoils of battle of Badr. Money that came from
selling the shield was used for expenses of marriage that included payment of some household
items, refreshment for guests and some decor and fragrances. Haritha bin Nauman (RA) presented
his house for accommodation of Ali and Fatimah. Fatimah settled in that home after marriage
because it was nearby Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque.
❑ 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 were swollen 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 (PBUH) would give her respect and regard to; 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) had a final conversation with her while he was on his death bed. She was grieved
after listening to first part of his conversation but was satisfied after listening to 2nd new. First one
was about his death so she got depressed. But when he told her that she would be the first one to
join him, she was happy.
❑ She died in Ramadhan, 11th A.H, 6 months after Prophet’s (PBUH) demise. She had 2 sons named
Hassan (RA), Hussain (RA) and 2 daughter Zainab (RA) 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 Muslims should give proper respect and honor
Fatimah. their daughters.
Prophet (PBUH) never mourned over not having Muslims should consider daughters as blessing and
any son. should never differentiate.
Prophet (PBUH) did not want to marry anyone Muslims should leave no stone unturned in good
else after Khadijah but he did just for upbringing upbringing of their daughters.
of Fatimah and Umm-e-Kulthoom.
 She would get upset upon seeing Prophet (PBUH) Teaches Muslims that this is a two-way
being persecuted and later she got happy upon relationship and father’s affection earns him true
coming to know that she will be the first to meet respect and recognition from daughters.
Prophet (PBUH) after his 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 by all members of the family.
❑ Prophet (PBUH) loved her so much and enjoyed spending time with her. 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 (RA), she married Ali (RA). 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
(PBUH), 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 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. These losses had great impact on his personality 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.
❑ When rebels besieged the house of Uthman (RA) 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 Mu’awiyah (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 forces which reminded him the treachery of this region when
they betrayed Ali (RA) several times. So, he signed a peace treaty with Amir Mu’awiyah (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 Mu’awiyah (RA) agreed on some terms and signed a treaty that bounded Mu’awiyah
to rule according to the Quran and Sunnah. Shia Muslims believe that Mu’awiyah was bound to
nominate Hussain (RA) as his successor which Mu’awiyah (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.
❑ Hassan (RA) 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 2nd
son of Ali (RA) and Fatimah (RA). He was born in Shaban 4th 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 ‘Hussain’ (The little beautiful) was
also given by Holy Prophet (PBUH).
❑ Fatimah (RA) got severely ill after giving birth to Hussain, which is why he was given early care 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) special 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 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 had great impact on his personality. He was taken care by Ali (RA) who inspired
him to be brave, straight forward, consistent and righteous.
❑ When the rebels besieged the house of Uthman (RA) with plan to murder him, Hussain (RA) along
with his elder brother Hasan (RA) guarded the gate of Uthman’s (RA) 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 Mu’awiyah (RA) and Battle of Naharwan fought against Khawarij.
❑ He was reluctant during the signing of treaty between Hasan (RA) and Amir Mu’awiyah (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 Mu’awiyah 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) sent his cousin Muslim bin Aqil (RA) to inquire about the situation. He reached Kufa,
inquired about the situation and sent green signal to Hussain (RA). 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 ❑ Yazid’s plan, pressure of governor of ❑ Arrival of Syrian Army.
Umayyah and Banu Hashim. Madinah. ❑ Nigotiation.
❑ Rivalry of Ali (RA) and Muaviyah ❑ Imam Hussain in Makkah and letters ❑ Camp at Karbala and shortage of
(RA). from Kufa. water.
❑ Peace Treaty between Hasan (RA) ❑ Muslim bin Aqil’s martyrdom in Kufa. ❑ Role of Shimr.
and Muaviyah (RA). ❑ Imam Hussain’s march to Kufa. ❑ Final speech of Imam Hussain (RA).
❑ Yazid’s succession and opposition ❑ Battle and martyrdom of
of Hussain (RA). 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 he was killed mercilessly and his body was trembled by horses, 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 his patronymic, father Uthman who’s patronymic
was Abu Quhafa and Mother’s name was Salma. He was born in 573 AD in one of the clans of
Quraysh called Banu Taym.
❑ Abu Bakr (RA) was one of the most famous and successful cloth merchants of Makkah. He was 18
when he travelled for trade purpose and later, he explored 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 similar to Prophet (PBUH) even in pre-Islamic era. He always
maintained distance from adultery, idol worshiping, gambling, drinking and other social evils. He
was old 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:
 “Every person whom I ever invited to Islam, gave it a thought before taking decision. 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 if the 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 for preaching 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 had no other choice left. 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 accepted Prophet’s (PBUH) claim 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 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 father in-law of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as his daughter Ayesha (RA) was one of
Prophet’s (PBUH) wives. This strengthened the bond between Abu Bakr (RA) and Prophet (PBUH)
and made them even 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 all of his belonging 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 number 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) said:
 “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 am most obliged to Abu Bakr (RA) for the favor of his company and property.”
❑ 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 conversion of Umar bin Khattab or Amr bin Hasham (Abu Jahal).”
❑ Allah answered Prophet’s (PBUH) prayers in 6th year of Prophethood when Umar (RA) was looking
for 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 their steadfastness and
courage touched his heart and he asked them show him the verses of Quran. Fatimah (RA) asked
him to get purified and then showed him verses of Surah Taha and he happened to like it. The
verses inspired him so much that he reached the house of Arqam (RA) and declared Shahadah.
❑ His conversion proved to be a great morale booster for Prophet (PBUH) and Muslims. Firstly, he
didn’t hide his conversion from anyone and then he made sure that Muslims offer Prayer in Kabah
without any hurdle.
❑ In 622 AD, he migrated to Madinah openly and challenged everyone to try stopping him. He
reached Quba and waited there until Prophet’s (PBUH) migration. In brotherhood between
emigrants and helpers, he was paired with Atban bin Malik (RA) the chief of Bani Salim.
❑ Umar (RA) was one of the two companions who were taught method of Azaan by Angel in a dream.
❑ 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 acknowledged when his 16/17
opinions were approved by the verses of Quran. For instance, order of veil or his opinion 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 no
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 attack Prophet (PBUH).
❑ 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’ 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, he drew his
sword and shouted:
 “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 Banu Umayyah, one of the most
influential and strongest clan of Makkah. 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 when 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 that indicated 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. His uncle
would wrap him up in palm leaves and put him on burning coals but he never gave up.
❑ 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) got his second daughter Umm-e-Kulthoom (RA)
married to Uthman (RA) and he was given the title ‘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 a lot major battles and expeditions and always supported Prophet (PBUH) by
completing different tasks given to him. He made major financial 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 drought in Madinah.
He bought the well by spending thousands of Dirhams. This earned him another title ‘Al-Ghani’
(The Generous).
❑ Modesty was his distinguishing quality that made him stand out. Even Prophet (PBUH) would take
care of him as once Prophet (PBUH) was sitting casually and his calf was 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 took custody of Ali (RA) in order to give him mentoring and
sharing the financial load of his uncle.
❑ He was brought up by Prophet (PBUH) and Khadijah (RA) to be the best version of himself. 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 accept 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 lashed out at him aggressively. Ali (RA) demonstrated courage by
standing up and declaring his faith in front of everyone making 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 Kabah, but he remained
steadfast and courageous.
❑ 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) send their
proposals but Prophet (PBUH) remained silent. Finally, Ali (RA) sent marriage proposal and Prophet
(PBUH) accepted it.
❑ 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 got in the spoils of battle of Badr. Money that came from
selling the shield was used for expenses of marriage that included payment of some household
items, refreshment for guests and some decor and fragrances. Haritha bin Nauman (RA) presented
his house for accommodation of Ali and Fatimah. Fatimah settled in that home after marriage
because it was nearby Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque.
❑ 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 a duel before
battle of Badr and Abu Talha in in battle of Uhud. On the day of Uhud, He along with Abu Dujana
(RA) thrashed the army of Quraysh and forced them to retreat. He formed the defensive ring
around Prophet (PBUH). He killed Amr bin Abdul-Wud in battle of Trench who was a 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 Naim even after multiple attacks.
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) and he managed to capture the fort in single
attack and killed the fiercest swordsman of Arab named Marhab. He was reported to smash a
heavy door that needed number of men just to lift it up. 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) in 9th AH. 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) with these words:
 “One who has me as their Maula, has Ali as his Maula.”
❑ 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 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 from 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 Uhud when Quraysh launched a massive attack particularly targeting Holy Prophet
(PBUH) some companions encircled Prophet (PBUH) protecting him with 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). 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.”
6. Zubair bin Awam (RA)
❑ Zubair (RA) was born in 594 A.D in the family of Awam bin Khuwaylid from Banu Asad and Safiya
bint e Abdul Mutalib from Banu Hashim. This 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 5 th person
to accept Islam.
❑ He faced torture and persecution of Quraysh but remained steadfast and kept supporting Holy
Prophet (PBUH).
❑ Once Zubair (RA) heard that the Prophet (PBUH) was being attacked. So, he drew his sword and ran
to protect 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 attacking you.”
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 state of
Madinah. 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 Uhud. He put his life in danger and successfully conducted a spy mission 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). 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.”
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 remained steadfast and courageous, 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 comprising 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 his cheeks. He bit into the discs and took it out but lost
his teeth.
❑ He led one of the four columns of Muslim army during conquest of Makkah in 8 th A.H and fulfilled
the responsibility handed over by the 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 580 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 enjoyed luxury life.
❑ 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 suffered 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 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) when 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 life
meaning 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 renounces his
new religion and converts 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 soldiers that Muslim army managed to crush
Persian 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 Personalities
Abu Hurairah (RA)
❑ Abu Hurairah was born in Yemen in the tribe of Daws. It is located in the region of Tehama
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 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 confronted his elder
brother and talked to him in harsh tone just out of Prophet’s (PBUH) love.
❑ It was 6th 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, picked up 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 intercept 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 banner of Islam in the first ever Ghazwa named Ghazwa Abwa.
❑ 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 at Hamza
(RA) while he was busy fighting with someone else, 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 bin Rabah (RA)
❑ Bilal (RA) was born in 580 AD. His father, Rabah was an Arab and his mother, Hamama was from
Abyssinia, Africa. 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
Umayyah 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 put a rock on his
chest so he could not move. They would keep beating him up with lashes in this condition and ask
him to renounce Islam but his only answer would be:
 “He is One, He is One” (Al-Ahad)
❑ 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 Makkah as active member of Muslim community and migrated to Madinah where
he became the first Muezzin of Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque. His voice was loud and foreign accent
was a slightly different and beautiful which Prophet (PBUH) seemed to like a lot. Some people
criticized his pronunciation but Prophet (PBUH) defended and silenced all critics.
❑ In 2nd AH, he participated in battle of Badr and killed his former master Umayyah bin Khalf.
❑ He left Madinah after the demise of Holy Prophet (PBUH) and never proclaimed Azaan again. He
migrated to Syria and lived there permanently.
❑ Prophet (PBUH) said to him:
 “I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise.”
❑ Once he visited Madinah and upon being persuaded by Hasan (RA) 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 led 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.

Khalid bin Waleed (RA)

❑ Khalid bin Waleed was born in a highly respected family of Banu Makhzoom of the tribe of Quraysh in
Makkah in nearly 585 C.E.
❑ His father, Waleed bin Mughirah was a famous poet and an enemy of Islam.
❑ He mastered many of the combating proficiencies like using sword, spike, bow and spear etc. and
became a qualified horseman. He was tall with big shoulders and was bodily very strong. He was also
considered to be among the best wrestlers of his time.
❑ He was among the worst enemies of Islam during Makki period and first half of Prophet’s (PBUH) time
in Madinah.
❑ He was the one who turned things in favor of Quraysh when they almost lost battle of Uhud. He led 200
 horsemen and ambushed the pass left unguarded by the Muslim archers. Muslims were not ready for
this surprise attack and the victory slipped away from Muslims’ hand.
❑ Khalid bin Waleed (RA) accepted Islam between the treaty of Hudaibiah and conquest of Makkah. It is
reported that Prophet (PBUH) had told the brother of Khalid (RA) that a brave and intelligent man like
him should not keep himself away from Islam and this message convinced him to rethink his beliefs and
embrace Islam.
❑ In the battle of Mautah, The Muslims were outnumbered against the multitude of Byzantines. After
martyrdom of all three leaders, Thabit ibn Al-Arqam (RA) handed the flag to Khalid bin Waleed (RA)
who led from front and surprised Romans. He rearranged the Muslim army to from rear to front in
order to create illusion of reinforcements and new soldiers joining Muslims’ ranks. Eventually, it was
due to his amazing strategic abilities that the Muslims managed to retreat safely. According to
narrations, 9 swords were broken in the hands of Khalid (RA) and later Prophet (PBUH) called him
‘Saifullah’ (Sword of Allah).
❑ He was leading one of the four squadrons of Muslim army which faced Makkan retaliation. He was also
chosen by prophet (PBUH) to destroy some of the particular idols in Makkah. ❑ He served as a great
Muslim general and war strategist during the caliphates.
❑ Defeated Musailmah in battle of Yamamah.
❑ Led the most Persian and Roman campaign defeating the enemies several times.
❑ Umar (RA) removed him from supreme command but he kept serving the Muslim army as soldier
obediently and passionately same as before.
❑ He received countless wounds on his body from battles yet he died a natural death at the age of 57.

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