Farewell argument
In the blessed month of Dhul-Qa'dah, in the tenth year of the Hijra, a decisive moment in Islamic history unfolded - the Farewell Pilgrimage of the Prophet Muhammad. After spending nine years in Medina without performing the Hajj, the Prophet decided to embark on this spiritual journey, a journey that would resonate through the ages.
With unwavering determination, the Prophet Muhammad, accompanied by about 100,000 Muslims, set off from Medina on a camel. This Hajj, also known as the Hajj of Communication or the Hajj of Islam, was a momentous occasion. This was not only a religious duty, but a profound farewell, as the Prophet bade farewell to his followers and conveyed basic teachings and guidelines.
Upon his arrival in Mecca, on the morning of the fourth Sunday of Dhu al-Hijjah, the Prophet entered the Sacred Mosque through the “Abdul Manaf Gate,” now known as the “Bab al-Salam.” His reverence for the Kaaba was clear as he called for its honor, glorification, and righteousness. The ritual began when he touched the black stone, tears of devotion shining in his eyes. He circumambulated the House seven times, prayed at the Maqam Ibrahim, drank from Zamzam, and ran between Safa and Marwa, embodying the essence of faith and sincerity.
On the eighth of Dhul-Hijjah, he headed to Mina, where he spent the night, a testimony to his humility and simplicity. The next day, in Arafat, the Prophet delivered his farewell sermon, a sermon in which divine wisdom was echoed. In his address to the faithful, he emphasized the sanctity of life and property, the protection of women, and the importance of fair treatment within families.
In a moment engraved in history, he declared: “Your blood and your wealth are sacred,” emphasizing the value of human life and financial security. He urged kindness and moderation in marital relations and stressed the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Book of God, stressing that they will guide believers even after his departure.
At that pivotal moment on Mount Arafat, the divine revelation echoed in the air: “Today I have perfected for you your religion, completed My blessings upon you, and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” This verse established Islam as a complete and complete way of life, and a beacon of guidance for all of humanity.
While interpretations vary, the essence of unity and enlightenment prevailed. The Farewell Pilgrimage of the Prophet Muhammad stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of love, compassion and peaceful coexistence – principles that continue to illuminate the path of humanity, promoting understanding and harmony throughout the world.
His death, may God bless him and grant him peace
In the solemn month of Dhul-Qa'dah, in the year 11 AH, the Islamic world bid farewell to its beloved Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace. His journey towards the end began with divine revelations, foretelling the approaching twilight of his earthly existence. The illness that characterized his last days befell him after he entrusted Usama bin Zaid with the mission of fighting the Romans, which is evidence of his permanent commitment to Islam.
In the midst of his suffering, the Prophet resorted to prayer, seeking forgiveness, and seeking mercy for his people. His pain intensified, and it was rumored to be a result of the poison he had taken in Khaybar. Despite his suffering, he continued to address his followers, stressing the importance of unity and devotion to God. Six days before his death, he delivered a moving message, urging believers to fear God and remain steadfast in their faith.
On the fateful Monday morning, thirteen days after the start of his illness, the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, left his house to join the people in the morning prayer. His presence brought joy, but he knew that his time on earth was coming to an end. Upon his return, he lay down on the lap of Aisha bint Abu Bakr and departed from this world in peace, whispering: “Rather, the highest companion is from heaven.”
His death marked a profound moment in history. Omar bin Al-Khattab, unable to comprehend the loss, said, “The Messenger of God is not dead!” It was Abu Bakr, his close companion and confidant, who reassured the grieving crowd. He reminded them that the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, was the mortal Messenger of God, and God alone is eternal.
The next day, people gathered to prepare the body of the Prophet. Ali bin Abi Talib, Al-Abbas bin Abdul Muttalib, Al-Fadl bin Al-Abbas, Qutham bin Al-Abbas, Osama bin Zaid, and Shaqran, the client of Muhammad, washed him and dressed him in the last of his clothes. . He raised the bed on which he died, and built the tomb of Abu Talha Al-Ansari under it.
In the stillness of the night, the Prophet Muhammad, the Seal of the Prophets, was buried. His earthly journey has ended, but his legacy, his teachings, and the love of his followers will live on, illuminating the way for generations to come. Peace be upon him, as a mercy to humanity, whose spirit resides in the hearts of believers, reminding them of the limitless love and wisdom he had during his earthly sojourn.
after his death
After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, a deep and lasting dispute arose among his followers regarding his successor. In Saqifa Bani Sa'idah, Saad bin Ubadah nominated himself, supported by some supporters. On the other hand, Omar bin Al-Khattab nominated Abu Bakr, emphasizing the right of the immigrants to the caliphate. The latter's nomination was well received by many Muslims present in the Saqifa.
Meanwhile, Ali bin Abi Talib and his companions, who were busy preparing the body of the Prophet, were delaying their pledge of allegiance for one day. This delay led to censure, as some questioned Abu Bakr's decision not to seek their advice. The difference in loyalty between Ali's group and Abu Bakr led to a historical dispute, marking the beginning of the division between the Sunni and Shiite sects.
Upon settling in Medina, Abu Bakr took quick measures to protect the city. He faced challenges from tribes that had abandoned Islam and banned zakat. In addition, there were people who claimed to be prophets, such as Musaylimah bin Habib. Abu Bakr began what became known as the Wars of Apostasy, including the pivotal Battle of Al-Yamamah against the Banu Hanifa, in which Musaylimah ibn Habib impugned the Islamic faith. Despite objections to Osama bin Zaid’s young age, Abu Bakr sent him with an army to fight the Romans. Osama's mission was to reclaim the tribes controlled by apostasy, and successfully return them to Islam. When Osama faced the Romans, the Muslims emerged victorious, strengthening the early Islamic state.
Abu Bakr's rule was characterized by efforts to expand the state's influence. He strategically deployed military forces in different regions, ensuring the stability and growth of the prosperous Islamic empire. This period laid the foundation for the Caliphate, shaped the future course of Islamic rule and represented a decisive stage in the history of Islam.