PLEDGES OF AQABAH

The Aqaba Pledge holds great significance in the history of Islam. It took place during the eleventh year of Islam when six individuals
from Madina, who had embraced Islam. The people of yasrib had heard the Jews saying that according to their scripture, it was the time
of arrival of a prophet in Arabia.

First pledge of Aqabah: Upon the arrival of the next Hajj season, which was a year after their initial meeting with the Prophet
Muhammad (PBUH), the six individuals embarked on a journey to Mecca in a caravan consisting of twelve people. During a clandestine
gathering in the narrow valley of Aqaba, they reaffirmed their allegiance to the Messenger of God (PBUH) by pledging to abide by
certain conditions.

These conditions included a commitment to monotheism, refraining from theft, adultery, infanticide, slander, and opposition to virtuous
causes. By making this solemn pledge, the believers expressed their dedication to upholding these principles, which are integral to
fostering a peaceful and righteous community.

In response to their allegiance, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) assured them of divine rewards and the promise of Paradise for those
who remain faithful to their pledge. He also explained that if someone unintentionally commits one of these misdeeds and faces
punishment in this world, the penalty would serve as atonement for their error. However, if one were to commit such an act but conceals
it without confessing, it is left to God to decide whether to forgive or punish them.

Furthermore, the Muslims who pledged their allegiance to the Prophet (PBUH) agreed to prioritize obedience and submission in all
circumstances, be it during times of hardship, pressure, prosperity, or joy. They willingly placed themselves under the Prophet's
command, vowing not to disobey him in any way. This agreement underscored the importance of unity and the guidance of the Prophet
(PBUH) in establishing a cohesive and righteous society. The Muslims of Medina returned to their homeland after this meeting. There,
they continued to have their voices heard and spread the light of Islam

In response to the Muslims of Madina's request for a Quran teacher, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sent Hazrat Mus'ab bin Umair, a
young and handsome man from the Quraysh. Asad bin Zurara, a prominent figure among the Muslims of Madina, provided
accommodation for Mus'ab, and his house became a central meeting place for the Muslim community. Hazrat Mus'ab, who had learned
the Quran directly from the Prophet (PBUH), dedicated himself to spreading Islam in Madina. He engaged in conversations and meetings
with influential individuals from various tribes, gently explaining the teachings of Islam to them, and played a crucial role in its
dissemination.

Second Pledge of Aqabah: In the 13th year of the Islamic calendar, during the Hajj season, a group of 75 people from the Aws and
Khazraj tribes of Medina, including two women, approached the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) at the Masjid-al-Haram in Mekka. Led by
As'ad bin Zurara, they expressed their willingness to support and protect the Prophet (PBUH) both physically and spiritually. They sought
guidance on where they should meet to discuss their offer further, and the Prophet (PBUH) suggested holding the meeting at Aqaba in
secrecy.

Following the Prophet's instructions, the Muslims of Medina discreetly gathered in the valley near Aqaba, away from prying eyes. The
Prophet (PBUH) arrived accompanied by his uncle Hazrat Abbas, who had not yet embraced Islam. Initially, Hazrat Abbas addressed the
group, emphasizing the importance of their commitment to protecting the Prophet (PBUH). However, the Muslims of Medina insisted
that the Prophet himself speak and outline the promises he sought from them.

As'ad bin Zurara, given permission by the Prophet (PBUH), delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the Muslims of Medina. He
acknowledged the difficulty of accepting the Prophet's invitation to abandon their previous beliefs and embrace Islam. Nevertheless, they
had chosen to accept this path and pledged their loyalty, affirming their belief in the Prophet's message from God. As'ad bin Zurara
declared their commitment to protect the Prophet (PBUH) as they would their own lives, families, and possessions. They vowed to
uphold the conditions set forth by the Prophet (PBUH), including worshiping God alone, performing prayers, paying alms, and
acknowledging the Prophet's status as the Messenger of God.

Abdullah bin Rawaha asked what they would gain by fulfilling these promises, to which the Prophet (PBUH) responded, "Paradise."
Overwhelmed with joy, the Muslims of Medina expressed their acceptance of the exchange, recognizing the immense rewards that
awaited them. Finally, they inquired about how to pledge their allegiance, and the Prophet (PBUH) specified that they should testify to
the oneness of God and the Prophet's role as God's Messenger, uphold their religious duties, obey his commands, and provide unwavering
support and protection.

After the secretive allegiance, a voice falsely spread rumors of a planned attack by the Muslims. Thankfully, the matter
remained concealed, preventing harm. As the Hajj season ended, the Muslims returned to Medina eagerly awaiting the arrival
of the Prophet and the migrants.