Salama bin Al-Akwa
was one of the prominent companions of the Prophet Muhammad. He participated in the Battle of Mu'tah and was among those who pledged allegiance under the tree in Al-Hudaybiyyah. He was recognized for his bravery as an outstanding infantryman. The Prophet Muhammad once praised him, saying: “The best of our knights is Abu Qatada, and the best of our soldiers is Salama.”
Descent:
Salama bin Amr bin Al-Akwa', from the Aslam tribe, was known as Abu Muslim, Abu Amer, or Adah Abu Iyas. His lineage goes back to Salman bin Aslam, an Aslam from the largest Malik bin Salamah clan. Salama participated in the pledge of allegiance under the tree and was a scholar who provided advice in Medina.
Conversion to Islam:
According to historical accounts, Salama bin Al-Akwa’ had an effective role in spreading Islam. He was famous for talking to the wolf, which led him to Islam. The wolf told him about the Prophet’s call to monotheism, and criticized the worship of idols. This encounter prompted Salama to search for the Prophet Muhammad and eventually convert to Islam.
Advantages
Salama ibn al-Akwa' played an important role in early Islamic campaigns, participating in seven battles alongside the Prophet, and later under the leadership of Abu Bakr or Usama ibn Zaid. The Prophet Muhammad praised him and said that he was one of the best men.
Piety
Salama was known for his piety, and he used to pray at a certain pillar in the Prophet’s Mosque. When asked about this practice, Salama explained that he saw the Prophet doing the same thing. His commitment to following the actions of the Prophet extended to various aspects of his life.
courage:
Salama was known for his courage on the battlefield. He was directing accusations against the enemy, and his courage was evident in various confrontations. During the Battle of Uhud, he was particularly brave.
life and death
After the death of Caliph Othman, Salama retreated to a place called Al-Rabda, where he married and had children. When he approached the end of his life, he returned to Medina. It is reported that he died in the year 74 AH during the caliphate of Abdullah bin Al-Zubayr.
Some of the raids he went on
1. The Battle of Hunayn:
Salamah bin Al-Akwa’ participated in the Battle of Hunayn with the Prophet Muhammad.
- When they encounter the enemy, advance safely and climb a hill to get a better vantage point.
- He faced an enemy soldier and shot him with an arrow, so the enemy took cover.
- However, Salama realized that the rest of the enemy forces had left from another side of the hill.
- The Muslim forces, including Salama, retreated at first and were in a state of defeat.
- Salama, wearing two abayas, was able to reorganize and gather his belongings.
As he passed by the Prophet Muhammad in a defeated state, the Prophet commented that Ibn al-Akwa’ (apparently a member of the enemy) saw fear.
2.Divine intervention:
- When the enemies surrounded the Prophet Muhammad, he got off his horse, took a handful of dirt, and threw it towards the enemy forces.
Dust covered the faces of the enemy fighters, and they retreated in defeat.
The Prophet Muhammad attributed this divine intervention to the will of God.
3 Distribution of spoils:
- After victory, the Prophet Muhammad distributed the spoils of war to the Muslim community.
4. Comments on defeat:
- The word “defeated” made it clear that it is a case specific to Ibn al-Akwa’, and does not mean the defeat of the Prophet Muhammad and the Muslims. Scholars and companions confirmed that the Prophet did not face defeat.
The clip also includes a separate account of Salama's participation in the Battle of Hawazin, where he captured a red camel and played a role in the victory. Details include his actions in lowering the camel, picking it up and presenting it to the Prophet Muhammad, who rewarded him for his contribution.
It is important to note that the narrative emphasizes divine intervention and the ultimate success of the Islamic forces in these battles.