The Selected from the Biography of the Chosen One, may God bless him and grant him peace [1]

The Selected from the Biography of the Chosen One, may God bless him and grant him peace. Introduction by the Author. The Lineage of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Marriage of Amina to Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib. Amina's Pregnancy with the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Death of His Father, Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib. The Birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, in the Year of the Elephant ¹. The Signs That Appeared at His Birth, may God bless him and grant him peace. His Nursing, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Death of His Mother, Amina, and the Guardianship of His Grandfather, Abd al-Muttalib. The Care of Abu Talib for the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, in the Eighth Year of the Elephant. The Uncles and Aunts of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Uncles of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Aunts of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The War of Fujjar ² in Shawwal of the Twentieth Year of the Elephant. The Alliance of the Virtuous ³ in Dhu al-Qa'dah of the Same Year. The Prophet's Journey to Syria in the Twenty-Fifth Year of the Elephant. The Building of the Kaaba in the Thirty-Fifth Year of the Elephant. The Announcement of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Beginning of the Prophethood in the Fortieth Year of the Elephant. Mention of the Eight Who Preceded in Faith. The Open Declaration of the Call in the Fourth Year of Prophethood. The Matter of Quraysh with Abu Talib. The Story of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib. The Story of Umar ibn al-Khattab. The Story of Badhan, the King of Yemen. The Story of al-Tufayl ibn Amr al-Dawsi. The Story of Rukana ibn Abd Yazid al-Muttalibi. Mention of the Emigrants to Abyssinia, First and Second, in the Fifth Year of Prophethood. The Matter of the Boycott and the Mountain Pass in Muharram of the Seventh Year of Prophethood. The Prophet's Journey to Ta'if in the Tenth Year of Prophethood. The Night Journey of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, in the Twelfth Year of Prophethood. The First Pledge of Aqaba in the Twelfth Year of Prophethood. The Second Pledge of Aqaba in the Thirteenth Year of Prophethood. The Noble Emigration in the Thirteenth Year of Prophethood. The Building of the Mosque in Medina in the First Year of the Hijra. The Matter of the Call to Prayer in the First Year of the Hijra. The Change of the Qibla to the Kaaba in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Matter of Fasting, Zakat al-Fitr, the Feast, and the Sacrifice in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Story of Salman al-Farisi. The Story of Abdullah ibn Salam. The Story of Abu Qays al-Ansari. Mention of the People of the Bench ⁴. The Description of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Description of His Body, may God bless him and grant him peace. His Moral Qualities, Manners, and Demeanor, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Hair of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Toothstick and Cupping of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Pulpit of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, and His Sermons. The Prophet's Prayer over the Dead. The Clothing of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Weapons of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Seal Ring of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Sandals of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Wives of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace: Khadija bint Khuwaylid, Sawda bint Zam'a, Aisha bint Abi Bakr al-Siddiq, Hafsa bint Umar, Zaynab bint Khuzayma, Umm Salama, Zaynab bint Jahsh, Juwayriya bint al-Harith, Rayhana bint Zayd, Umm Habiba, Safiyya bint Huyayy, Maymuna bint al-Harith. The Children of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Scribes of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Messengers of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: Amr ibn Umayya al-Damri, Dihya ibn Khalifa al-Kalbi, Abdullah ibn Hudhafa al-Sahmi, Hatib ibn Abi Balta'a al-Lakhmi, Shuja' ibn Wahb al-Asadi, Sulayt ibn Amr al-Amiri, Amr ibn al-As, al-Ala' ibn al-Hadrami. The Servants of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Freedmen of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Horses and Mounts of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. The Military Expeditions, Raids, and Delegations. The Raid of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib to the Coast of the Sea in the First Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ubayda ibn al-Harith to Batan Rabigh in the First Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas to al-Kharrar in the First Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Waddan in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Buwat in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Safwan, which is the First Badr, in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Dhi al-Ushayra in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abdullah ibn Jahsh to Nakhla in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Badr the Great in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Umayr ibn Adi to Asma bint Marwan in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Salim ibn Umayr to Abu Afak the Jew in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Banu Qaynuqa' in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of al-Sawiq in the Second Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Qarqarat al-Kudr in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Muhammad ibn Maslama to Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf the Jew in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Ghatafan in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Bahran in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Qarda in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Uhud in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Hamra' al-Asad in the Third Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Salama al-Makhzumi to Qatan in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abdullah ibn Unays to Sufyan al-Hudhali at 'Arna in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of al-Mundhir ibn Amr to Bi'r Ma'una in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Mirthad al-Ghanawi to al-Raji' in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Banu al-Nadir in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Badr al-Maw'id in the Fourth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Dhat al-Riqa' in the Fifth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Dumat al-Jandal in the Fifth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of al-Muraysi' in the Fifth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of the Trench, known as the Confederates, in the Fifth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Banu Qurayza in the Fifth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Muhammad ibn Maslama to al-Qurta from Banu Kilab in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Banu Lahyan in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Dhi Qarad in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ukkasha ibn Mihsan al-Asadi to al-Ghamr in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Muhammad ibn Maslama to Dhi al-Qassa in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to Banu Tha'laba in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Jumum in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-'Is in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Taraf in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to Husma in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf to Dumat al-Jandal in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ali ibn Abi Talib to Banu Sa'd in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to Wadi al-Qura in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abdullah ibn Atik to Ibn Abi al-Huqayq the Jew in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abdullah ibn Rawaha to Usayr ibn Rizam the Jew in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Karz ibn Jabir al-Fihri to the 'Urayniyyin in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Amr ibn Umayya al-Damri to Abu Sufyan in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of al-Hudaybiya in the Sixth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Khaybar in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Umar ibn al-Khattab to Hawazin in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq to Fazara in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Bashir ibn Sa'd al-Ansari to Fadak in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ghalib ibn Abdullah al-Laythi to al-Mif'a in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Bashir ibn Sa'd al-Ansari to Yaman and Jabbar in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The 'Umra of Compensation in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ibn Abi al-'Awja' al-Sulami to Banu Sulaym in the Seventh Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ghalib ibn Abdullah al-Laythi to Banu al-Mulawwah in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ghalib ibn Abdullah al-Laythi to Fadak in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Shuja' ibn Wahb al-Asadi to Hawazin in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ka'b ibn Umayr al-Ghifari to Dhat Atlah in Syria in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Zayd ibn Haritha to Mu'ta in Syria in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Amr ibn al-As to Dhat al-Salasil in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to the Coast of the Sea in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Khadra in Najd in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Batan Idam in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of the People of Mecca and the Matter of the Conquest in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Khalid ibn al-Walid to al-'Uzza in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Amr ibn al-As to Suwa' in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Sa'd ibn Zayd al-Ash'ali to Manat in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Khalid ibn al-Walid to Banu Judhayma in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Hunayn in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of al-Tufayl ibn Amr al-Dawsi to Dhi al-Kaffayn in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Ta'if, the Division of the Spoils of Hunayn, and the 'Umra of al-Ji'rana in the Eighth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of 'Uyayna ibn Hisn al-Fazari to Banu Tamim in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Qutba ibn Amir to Khath'am in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of al-Dahhak ibn Sufyan al-Kilabi to al-Qurta in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of 'Alqama al-Mudliji to Abyssinia in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ali ibn Abi Talib to al-Fils in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Expedition of Tabuk in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Khalid ibn al-Walid to Dumat al-Jandal in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Thaqif and the Destruction of al-Lat in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Banu Tamim in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Abd al-Qays in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Banu Hanifa in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Tayy in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Kinda in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of al-Azd in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Delegation of Hamdan in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Pilgrimage of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, may God be pleased with him, in the Ninth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Ali ibn Abi Talib to Yemen in the Tenth Year of the Hijra. The Farewell Pilgrimage in the Tenth Year of the Hijra. The Raid of Usama ibn Zayd to the Land of Palestine in the Eleventh Year of the Hijra. The Sorcery of Labid ibn al-A'sam the Jew. The Poisoned Sheep of Zaynab bint al-Harith the Jewess. Seeking Forgiveness for the People of al-Baqi'. The Death of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace.

1. ‘Ām al-Fīl : The Year of the Elephant, traditionally dated to 570 CE, when Abraha's army with elephants attacked Mecca but was miraculously repelled.
2. Ḥarb al-Fijār : The Sacrilegious War, a series of battles between Quraysh and Hawazin during the sacred months, in which the Prophet participated as a youth.
3. Ḥilf al-Fuḍūl : The Alliance of the Virtuous, a pact among Quraysh clans to support the oppressed, which the Prophet later praised.
4. Ahl al-Ṣuffa : The People of the Bench, poor and homeless Companions who lived in the mosque's portico and devoted themselves to learning.

Al-Muqtafa min Sirat al-Mustafa [1], may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

The source: https://shamela.ws/book/6582 Date of extraction: 2026-06-17

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and blessings and peace be upon our master Muhammad, his family, and all his companions. To proceed: This is a book on the science of Sufism [1], which I have compiled from the words of the masters of this path [2], may Allah sanctify their souls. I have named it "The Revival of the Religious Sciences" [3]. I ask Allah to make it beneficial and to grant us sincerity in word and deed. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Author's Introduction Praise be to Allah, who has gathered us in love of the master of mankind ¹, benefited us with his biography ², whose beginning is good and whose end is wholesome, and made us worthy of serving his noble sunna ³, and favored us with following his luminous rulings and lofty signs. And blessings be upon His Prophet Muhammad, possessor of the pure biography ⁴ and drawer of clouds of grace and honor over all creation, and upon his family and his righteous companions, their every stillness and movement, and upon him and them be peace, mercy of Allah, and His blessings. To proceed: The best of speech is the Book of Allah, the Noble, and the best of guidance is that which is transmitted from the one described as possessing the greatest character ⁵. So fortunate is he who follows the commands of His Book and His Messenger, and pursues their path to attain the ultimate goal of his aim and desire. May Allah grant us success in following His love and what pleases Him, guide us in the remainder of our lives, and forgive what has passed in them, by His grace, bounty, power, and might.

1. sayyid al-bashar : Master of mankind, a title for Prophet Muhammad.
2. sīra : Biography or life story, especially of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. sunna : The prophetic tradition; the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad.
4. sīra sariyya : Pure or noble biography, referring to the Prophet's life.
5. al-khuluq al-ʿaẓīm : The greatest character, a Quranic description of Prophet Muhammad (Quran 68:4).

The lineage of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace [1]

The lineage of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: He is Abu al-Qasim Muhammad, son of Abdullah, son of Abd al-Muttalib, son of Hashim, son of Abd Manaf, son of Qusayy, son of Kilab, son of Murrah, son of Ka'b, son of Lu'ayy, son of Ghalib, son of Fihr, son of Malik, son of al-Nadr, son of Kinanah, son of Khuzaymah, son of Mudrikah, son of Ilyas, son of Mudar, son of Nizar, son of Ma'add, son of Adnan, son of Udad, son of al-Yasa', son of al-Humaysa', son of Salaman, son of Nabt, son of Hamal, son of Qaydhar, son of Isma'il, son of Ibrahim, son of Tarikh, son of Nahur, son of Saru', son of Ar'awa, son of Faligh, son of Ghahir, son of Shalikh, son of Arfakhshad, son of Sam, son of Nuh, son of Lamak, son of Mutushalkh, son of Akhnukh, son of Yard, son of Mahla'il, son of Qaynan, son of Anush, son of Shith, son of Adam, the father of mankind, peace be upon him. (A lineage of awe and majesty... to the Chosen One, the best of creation, the utmost of the noble) (A lineage that illuminated the horizon with light... without which neither the crescent moon would rise nor set) (A lofty lineage that gathered in its comprehensive whole... the notables of the masters of non-Arabs and Arabs)

The marriage of Amina to Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib [1]

The marriage of Amina to Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib. Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib, the father of the refuge of the seeker and the sanctuary of the fugitive, married Amina, the mother of the supreme Imam ¹ whom God has honored with abundant grace and by whose life He has sworn. She was the daughter of Wahb ibn Abd Manaf ibn Zuhra ibn Kilab, protected from the weapons of her people by sharp swords and solid shields. She was under the guardianship of her uncle Wahib, free from any blemish or defect. Abd al-Muttalib sought her hand in marriage for his son, intending to unite his lion and his cub. He received a favorable response and his proposal was accepted. He married her to his noble son Abdullah and crowned them with an earthly, nay, a heavenly crown. What a blessed union that brought the people of faith to the pinnacle of their aspirations, and doves of congratulations flew with the news of his prophethood. "The universe rejoiced, and the sun of forenoon ² dyed the horizons with saffron." "The full moon said to the flowers: O people, how blessed is this Quran!"

1. al-Imam al-A'zam : The Supreme Imam, a title often used for the Prophet Muhammad, indicating his highest rank among prophets.
2. Shams al-Duha : The sun of forenoon, a reference to the morning sun, often used poetically to describe brightness and blessing.

Aminah conceived the Prophet, peace be upon him.

She carried him safely through the Prophet ¹, peace and blessings be upon him. When she conceived him, she did not feel any heaviness, nor did she experience any annoyance or weariness because of him. A visitor with beautiful speech came to her while she was between wakefulness and sleep, informing her that she had conceived the master of the nation and its Prophet, and that she encompassed the sun of its dawn and the moon of its dusk. Then, when her time of delivery drew near and the perfections of the pearl of his birth were completed, he came to her and said: 'Seek refuge for him in the One from the evil of every envier.' And she was commanded to name him Muhammad. In a narration by Ahmad: 'What a sword! Its renowned honor shall never be sheathed.' (O daughter of Wahb, rejoice and delight, for you have conceived the master of the nobles. He is the one whose worth, if anyone wishes to know, let him refer to al-Anfal and al-A'raf ².) The death of his father, Abdullah ibn Abd al-Muttalib. Abdullah set out with a group of Quraysh merchants to Syria, seeking the lightning of the gleaming cloud among those who sought it. When they had fulfilled their needs and returned to their homes, they passed by the outskirts of Medina with the precious goods they had. He stayed there with his maternal uncles from Banu al-Najjar and was occupied by his own illness, neglecting the trade and the merchants.

1. bi al-nabiyyi : Literally 'by the Prophet', referring to the Prophet Muhammad. The phrase indicates that she was protected or blessed through him.
2. al-Anfal wa al-A'raf : Two chapters (surahs) of the Quran: al-Anfal (The Spoils of War) and al-A'raf (The Heights). The reference suggests that these surahs contain signs or proofs of the Prophet's greatness.

The birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, occurred in the Year of the Elephant [1].

He continued bound by the fetters of illness until his appointed time came and drew near. He was buried in the house of al-Nābigha, and his flowing robes ¹ shrank. After twenty-five years, I was afflicted with constant attendance at the shrine, while the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, was at that time carried on the soundest opinion ². Concerning this, Āmina ³ said in verses: "The side of al-Baṭḥāʾ ⁴ has become desolate from the son of Shayba ⁵, and he has taken up residence in a grave outside in the tumult ⁶. Death called him with a call, and he answered it, and it left no one among the people like Ibn Hāshim ⁷." The birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, in the Year of the Elephant ⁸. He was born under the most auspicious and fortunate ascendant, and he came in the best and most praiseworthy time, with his Ahmad ⁹. He arrived, and the horses of goodness were led before him; he came like rain to a land in need of it. That was on Monday, when dawn broke and the night departed, resolved on separation, on the tenth of Rabīʿ al-Awwal ¹⁰ in the Year of the Elephant. Welcome to a year that is a guarantor of salvation and a surety for success. His mother experienced no fatigue or hardship; time set no snare for her; rather, she was blessed by his nearness and connection, and she was far from difficulty in his pregnancy and weaning. She was elevated by what she gave birth to, and the lights of dignity shone upon her and gleamed. When he separated from her and moved, guarded by angels from her, he emerged pure, circumcised, and joyful. The secret ¹¹ of the one who took him as a beloved and delighted was cut from him. There appeared to him from the secret what bewildered the silent and the eloquent. A light came out with him that illuminated for him what is between the east and the west, even the necks of the camels in Baṣrā ¹², and adorned the palaces of Syria, leaving no palace untouched. He fell to the ground, may God bless him and grant him peace, raising his head to the sky, leaning on his hands. Then he took in his hand a handful of the earth's dust, indicating that he would possess all of it in length and width. Then Āmina delivered what she had carried of the trust, and she was among those pregnant women who complain. It is said that when the pangs of childbirth intensified upon her—and she was unique—she spread out the palms of her complaint to the Possessor of Praiseworthy Favors. Then, behold, Mary, daughter of ʿImrān ¹³, and Āsiya, daughter of Muzāḥim ¹⁴, and with them a group of the great and beautiful ḥūr ¹⁵ were with her. At that moment, the dawn of happiness shone in her house, grief left her, and sovereignty appeared to her. Her midwife was al-Shifāʾ bint ʿAmr ibn ʿAwf ¹⁶, and her nurse was Umm Ayman ¹⁷, who trusted in him during great calamities and fears. How noble are the days of his noble birth for those who know its worth, and how great is its blessing for those who know its secret and spread it. A day in which the Prophet came into existence is worthy of being taken as a festival, and a time in which his radiant forehead settled is fit to be deemed a fortunate ascendant. For in it, the pearl of existence ¹⁸ shone forth from the white of honor, and in it, the guarded pearl emerged from the interior of the shell, and the preceding good fortune was brought forth from the concealment of non-existence. In noble Mecca, the truthful promise was fulfilled with the essence of generosity. The night of his appearance and the day of the shining of his light's radiance were distinguished by endless characteristics and matchless merits, for he is the master of the children of Adam and their support, and the seal of the prophets and their first. May God bless him and his pure family and grant them abundant peace, and likewise the Companions and the Followers. "A full moon appeared to us in spring from the face of one who surpassed all desert and town dwellers. Beauty gathered in him, for he is its sole possessor, and he was in a form that surpassed all forms. If I do not visit his grave, O Saʿd ¹⁹, in my lifetime, after this neglect, O waste of life! May the God of the Throne bless him as long as the doves coo at dusk and dawn." Among the praises of his noble birth month: "This month in Islam has a merit and a virtue that surpasses all months. For in it are a birth, a name, a meaning, and signs that shone at appearance. Spring in spring in spring, and light upon light upon light." From the words of our master al-ʿAbbās ²⁰, the uncle of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace: "When you were born, the earth shone and the horizon was illuminated by your light. We, in that radiance and light, traverse the paths of guidance."

1. ṭilāl : Flowing robes or garments, metaphorically referring to his honor and dignity.
2. ʿalā al-ṣaḥīḥ : According to the soundest opinion, a technical term in Islamic scholarship indicating the most reliable view.
3. Āmina : Āmina bint Wahb, the mother of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. al-Baṭḥāʾ : A valley in Mecca, often used to refer to the area around the Kaaba.
5. ibn Shayba : Son of Shayba, referring to ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib, the Prophet's grandfather, whose full name was Shayba al-Ḥamd.
6. al-ghamāghim : Tumult or confusion, possibly referring to the turmoil of battle or death.
7. Ibn Hāshim : Son of Hāshim, referring to the Prophet Muhammad, as Hāshim was his great-grandfather.
8. ʿĀm al-Fīl : The Year of the Elephant, traditionally the year of the Prophet's birth (c. 570 CE), named after the Abyssinian attack on Mecca led by Abraha with elephants.
9. Aḥmad : Another name of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'most praiseworthy'.
10. Rabīʿ al-Awwal : The third month of the Islamic lunar calendar, the month of the Prophet's birth.
11. al-sirr : The secret, a Sufi term referring to the innermost spiritual mystery or the divine secret.
12. Baṣrā : A city in southern Iraq, known for its camels.
13. Maryam bint ʿImrān : Mary, the mother of Jesus, daughter of ʿImrān (Joachim).
14. Āsiya bint Muzāḥim : The wife of Pharaoh who adopted Moses, considered a righteous woman in Islam.
15. ḥūr : Ḥūr al-ʿīn, the beautiful maidens of Paradise.
16. al-Shifāʾ bint ʿAmr ibn ʿAwf : A woman from the Ansar who served as a midwife for the Prophet's mother.
17. Umm Ayman : Baraka bint Thaʿlaba, the Prophet's nurse and later a trusted companion.
18. jawharat al-kawn : The jewel of existence, a Sufi term for the Prophet Muhammad as the primordial essence of creation.
19. Saʿd : A proper name, possibly referring to a person or a companion.
20. al-ʿAbbās : Al-ʿAbbās ibn ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib, the uncle of the Prophet Muhammad.

The signs that appeared at his birth, peace be upon him.

The signs that appeared at his birth, may God bless him and grant him peace. When the Chosen Messenger was born, the eyes of the people of loyalty and purity were comforted by him, and mercy for all people appeared into existence, and for his sake existence was clothed in the most splendid garment. The gates of Paradise were opened, and they were adorned in joy for his arrival. The fires were extinguished, and their doors were closed as a favor and a sign. At that time, the arch of Kisra ¹ split out of awe for him, so that the people heard the sound of its cracking and it shook, and fourteen of its battlements fell, as the people narrated and those who saw it reported that the crack was lengthwise in its ceiling, and it remains to this day. The fire of Persia, which they used to worship, was extinguished, and it had not been extinguished for a thousand years before that; rather, they venerated it. When it was extinguished on the day of the noble birth, neither the strong among them nor the weak could rekindle it. The Lake of Sawa ² dried up after ships used to sail on it, so on the night of the noble birth it became dry land, and this is a cause for wonder. The sky was guarded by meteors, and every devil was prevented from it. The idols and crosses were broken in veneration of him. The pot that was placed over him split into two pieces, and his gaze pierced, looking at the sky with the naked eye. His mother said: When I gave birth to him, a light came out of my private part that illuminated the palaces of Syria. Glory be to Him who granted him guidance, care, righteousness, and honor. And He said concerning him, to manifest the greatness of his virtue and as a reminder: {O Prophet, indeed We have sent you as a witness, a bearer of good tidings, a warner, a caller to God by His permission, and an illuminating lamp. And give good tidings to the believers that they will have from God great bounty.} ³ (And we have seen a famous sign ... the text of the Book became famous by it) (For him the fire of the Magians was extinguished, and their idols were overturned ... and they called out there in ruin) (And he came as a bearer of good tidings of guidance and piety ... so often he calls as a guide and a bearer of good tidings)

1. Kisra : Title of the Sassanid Persian emperor, equivalent to Caesar or Chosroes.
2. Lake of Sawa : A lake in Persia (modern-day Iran) that was said to have dried up miraculously at the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. Quran 33:45-47 : Quranic verse referring to the Prophet Muhammad's mission as a witness, bearer of good tidings, warner, and illuminating lamp.

His [1] suckling, peace be upon him.

And among the best of what was composed: (His birth contained wonders... and the idols were truly overturned without dispute) (And the arch of Kisra cracked in awe... of Taha, the Messenger of God, the best of those who recite) (And the fires were extinguished in the land of Persia... and the monks were given glad tidings in inscribed words) (And the universes became adorned, boasting... of finding one who adorned all people with virtue) (So may God, my Lord, bless him with peace...) His suckling, may God bless him and grant him peace: When that beloved and cherished one emerged into existence, and God expanded hearts through him and instilled love for him in hearts, his mother nursed him for seven days. Then after that, Thuwayba nursed him, but not permanently; rather, Halima al-Sa'diyya came and undertook his nursing, and it was for her the best of trade and craft. She said: When I placed him in my lap, my two breasts yielded as much milk as he wished, so he drank until he was satisfied, preserved by divine care and encompassed by favors. And his brother 'Abdullah—meaning her son—drank, then he slept. Before she nursed the best of mankind, there was nothing in her breast to nourish him. And her sheep became full of milk after they had not been satiated even when drinking, and her she-donkey quickened in pace after being slow, and it had been heavy. Halima embraced Islam according to the well-known account, and she is counted among the female Companions. Divine care encompassed her as a miracle for the Master of masters and the best of creation. (Halima attained through nursing Muhammad... the best of all people, with the greatest purpose) (She obtained blessings when she took him... and good fortune accompanied her through Ahmad's countenance) (Her breast flowed when he nursed... she was secured by him from every severe hardship) (And her she-donkey preceded the caravan with her... rejoicing and proud of the most noble Messenger) (Her sheep became satiated whenever... they grazed, yielding abundant milk) (And she saw goodness surrounding her... while people were in a place of wretched livelihood) (She attained through him all joy and happiness... for he is the one who surpassed every noble one) May God bless him and grant him peace. Mention of the splitting of his noble chest: When his age, may God bless him and grant him peace, reached three years—and it is said four, according to what is reported from those whose narration is reliable—the splitting of his noble chest occurred while he was in the house of Banu Sa'd with Halima. He was surrounded by noble qualities and filled with great character. Then when he reached the age of ten, and God granted him guidance, righteousness, and favor, his noble chest was split a second time, washed, and filled with faith and pure wisdom. Then when God sent him as a mercy to the worlds, his chest was split and filled with wisdom and certainty. And a fourth splitting occurred on the night of the Isra' and Mi'raj, as recorded and confirmed by groups of scholars. And at the splitting of his noble chest, he increased in honor and was given abundant guidance. (And the chest of the Chosen One was split while he was... in the house of Banu Sa'd, without doubt)

His mother Amina died, and his grandfather Abd al-Muttalib took him into his care [1].

His grandfather 'Abd al-Muṭṭalib took charge of him when he was ten years old, and in his Miʿrāj ¹, it was said regarding the mission. The death of his mother Āminah and the guardianship of his grandfather 'Abd al-Muṭṭalib over him. When the Prophet ﷺ reached the age of six, and the eyes of his blessed family were delighted with him, his mother took him to Medina to visit the maternal uncles of his father, the Banū al-Najjār. With them was Umm Ayman, the nurse of the Chosen Messenger. They stayed for a month, then set out returning to the Sanctuary. When they were at al-Abwā', the mother of the Master of Nations died. So Umm Ayman took him to Mecca, and his grandfather took him into his care. He would elevate his status and show compassion to him, saying, 'Indeed, this son of mine has a great matter.' And what he said came to pass, and even beyond what he wished. He continued to take care of him until he reached eight years old—some say nine, some say ten, and other opinions as recorded by those who claimed so—and his grandfather died at that time, going to his Lord after having entrusted Abū Ṭālib with the protection of the Messenger of Allah. The roots of al-Muṣṭafā ² are people of glory, possessing honor confirmed by trustworthy sources. There is no youth among them but is hoped for the relief of hardships or intractable problems. Generous, bountiful, Shaybah ³ of high qualities, noble in character, praiseworthy in gifts.

1. Miʿrāj : The Night Journey and Ascension of the Prophet Muhammad to the heavens.
2. al-Muṣṭafā : An epithet of the Prophet Muhammad meaning 'the Chosen One'.
3. Shaybah : The name of 'Abd al-Muṭṭalib, meaning 'the one with white hair' or 'old man'.

Abu Talib took the Prophet (peace be upon him) under his care in the eighth year of the Elephant [1].

(And reaching for closeness, a downpour... and rain in the years of drought) (‘Aqīl of Banī Kināna and the hoped-for one... when time brings gifts) Abū Ṭālib took charge of the Prophet ﷺ in the eighth year of the Elephant ¹. When ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib died, his uncle Abū Ṭālib took him in, obtaining thereby the most precious treasures and the loftiest aspirations. He loved him intensely, extended to him a long shadow of honor, gathered his scattered family through him, recognized his blessing and virtue, preferred him over his own children, and found joy in his coming and going. He took him to Syria with some elders of Quraysh. Through his company, their fatigue vanished and their life became pleasant. On their journey, they passed by the monk named Baḥīrā ², who came down to them, breaking his usual habit, prepared much food for them, took the hand of the master of travelers and those arriving, and said: “This is one whom God will send as a mercy to the worlds.” He informed them of the elevation of his stars, the prostration of stones and trees at his coming, that a cloud shaded him apart from the rest of the group, and what he saw of his description that he found written with him. At that time, the Prophet ﷺ was twelve years old. He grew up with Abū Ṭālib, guarded and protected by Him whom no sleep or slumber overtakes ³, for the honor He intended for him and the prophethood and leadership He chose for him, until he became the most virtuous of his people in manliness and protection, the best in character, and the highest in...

1. ‘Ām al-Fīl : The Year of the Elephant, the year of the Prophet’s birth (570 CE), when Abraha’s army with elephants attacked Mecca but was miraculously repelled.
2. Baḥīrā : A Christian monk who recognized the Prophet’s prophethood from signs in scriptures and his description.
3. lā ta’khudhuhu sinatun wa-lā nawm : Qur’anic phrase (2:255) describing God, meaning He never slumbers nor sleeps.

The paternal uncles of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and his paternal aunts. The paternal uncles of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.

a beacon, and the most abundant in chastity and modesty, the greatest in forbearance and trustworthiness. He neither disputed nor dissimulated, nor did he swear oaths, until he was called, due to the righteous qualities gathered in him, 'the Trustworthy' ¹. (A prophet—Bahira ² wandered in the sea of his depth... And in the description of his signs, minds are bewildered.) (A prophet—the cloud shaded him when he walked... And at his command, the trees came towards him.) (The gazelle of the desert and its lizard spoke to him... And rain came to the thirsty by his supplication.) (Peace of God be upon him as long as the east wind blows... And as long as the turtledove coos and the moon is full.) The paternal uncles of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, and his paternal aunts. (The paternal uncles of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace) Abu al-Fadl al-‘Abbas ³, singled out with types and kinds of honor, father of the noble caliphs, the one who circumambulates and resides at the House, the Sacred House of God. And Hamza ⁴, the Lion of God and His Messenger, who set up for the polytheists the traps of his spears and arrows. He lived happily and died a martyr on the day of Uhud. And al-Harith ⁵, the eldest of his sons and the first counted among his weapons and numbers. He attended the digging [of the well].

1. al-Amin : The Trustworthy; a title given to the Prophet Muhammad before his prophethood due to his honesty and integrity.
2. Bahira : A Christian monk who recognized the prophethood of Muhammad during his childhood journey to Syria.
3. Abu al-Fadl al-‘Abbas : Al-‘Abbas ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib, the paternal uncle of the Prophet Muhammad and ancestor of the Abbasid caliphs.
4. Hamza : Hamza ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib, the Prophet's uncle and a prominent early Muslim, known as the 'Lion of God' and martyred at the Battle of Uhud.
5. al-Harith : Al-Harith ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib, the eldest son of ‘Abd al-Muttalib and uncle of the Prophet, who participated in digging the Zamzam well.

The paternal aunts of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him [1]

Zamzam ¹, to which he clung and adhered. And Abu Talib ² 'Abd Manaf, the mine of generosity and the refuge of guests, father of the Commander of the Faithful 'Ali ³, and the supporter of the most virtuous over every prophet and every saint. And Abu Tahir al-Zubayr ⁴, described as repelling oppression and harm. And Hujl ⁵, named al-Mughira, possessor of abundant spoils and numerous noble deeds. And Abu Hind al-Muqawwim ⁶, who never slept from guarding the covenant nor dozed. And Abu Nafi' Dirar ⁷, who said, 'When the battle heats up, there is no flight.' And Mus'ab ⁸, named al-Ghaydaq, famous for abundant goodness and good character. And 'Abd al-Ka'ba ⁹, dispeller of the clouds of severe sorrows. And Qutham ¹⁰, who died young, leaving his father's life bitter after its sweetness. And Abu Lahab ¹¹ 'Abd al-'Uzza, whom the zeal of the Jahiliyya ¹² drove vehemently. The paternal aunts of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: Safiyya ¹³, the loyal, believing, emigrant, pure one. And al-Bayda' ¹⁴ Umm Hakim, twin of the father of the noble Prophet. And 'Atika ¹⁵, possessor of modesty and dignity, and the one of the truthful vision at the Battle of Badr ¹⁶. And Umayma ¹⁷, mother of Zaynab the pure, wife of the one sent with dazzling signs. And Arwa ¹⁸, mother of Tulayb, who has no deficiency in her lineage nor defect. And Barra ¹⁹, mother of Abu Salama, whose knowledge raised the glory of all who bore her. Indeed, Matrud ibn Ka'b al-Khuza'i excelled when he said in verses: 'O you who travel, shifting his abode, why do you not ask about the family of 'Abd Manaf? Those who bestow favors when the stars change, and who depart for the journey of the Ilaf ²⁰. And those who feed when the winds blow contrary, until the sun sets in the western sea.'

1. Zamzam : The sacred well in Mecca, associated with the Prophet Isma'il.
2. Abu Talib : The uncle of the Prophet Muhammad and father of 'Ali, who protected him.
3. Commander of the Faithful 'Ali : Title of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph and first Imam in Shi'a Islam.
4. Abu Tahir al-Zubayr : A figure from the Prophet's lineage, known for repelling injustice.
5. Hujl : Also known as al-Mughira, a notable ancestor.
6. Abu Hind al-Muqawwim : A figure known for steadfastness in upholding covenants.
7. Abu Nafi' Dirar : A brave figure who declared no flight in battle.
8. Mus'ab : Known as al-Ghaydaq, meaning 'abundant in goodness'.
9. 'Abd al-Ka'ba : A name meaning 'servant of the Ka'ba', a figure who alleviated sorrows.
10. Qutham : A son of the Prophet's uncle who died young.
11. Abu Lahab : An uncle of the Prophet, known for his opposition to Islam.
12. Jahiliyya : The pre-Islamic period of ignorance.
13. Safiyya : The Prophet's paternal aunt, known for her faith and emigration.
14. al-Bayda' : Nickname of Umm Hakim, twin of the Prophet's father 'Abdullah.
15. 'Atika : A paternal aunt of the Prophet, known for her dream before Badr.
16. Battle of Badr : The first major battle in Islam, fought in 624 CE.
17. Umayma : Mother of Zaynab, the Prophet's daughter.
18. Arwa : Mother of Tulayb, a companion of the Prophet.
19. Barra : Mother of Abu Salama, a companion.
20. Ilaf : A term referring to the Quraysh's trade caravans, mentioned in Surah Quraysh.

The war of al-Fijar occurred in Shawwal, in the year twenty of the Elephant [1].

The war of al-Fijar ¹ occurred in Shawwal, twenty years after the Year of the Elephant ². The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, attended the war of al-Fijar in the company of his uncles, donning the armor of honor and girding himself with the sword of glory. He shot arrows at them and returned whatever arrows of the enemy fell among them. The one who kindled the fire and stirred the blaze was the killing of al-Barrad ibn Qays ³ of 'Urwa al-Rahhal ⁴ during the sacred month ⁵. Thus the whirlwinds of sedition arose, and the crows of tribulation flew. Quraysh and Qays ⁶ prepared for this war. Then the two groups met, not refraining from thrusting and striking, and many people were killed. The victory was for Qays in the end, then they settled and inclined toward peace. They agreed on blood money for the slain and reconciled. Regarding the killing of 'Urwa, Labid ibn Rabi'a ⁷ said in some verses: "And inform, if you pass by the Banu Thumayr ⁸ and the maternal uncles of the slain, the Banu Hilal ⁹."

1. al-Fijar : A pre-Islamic war between the Quraysh and the Qays tribes, named for the violation of the sacred months.
2. Year of the Elephant : The year of the Prophet's birth, when Abraha's army with elephants attacked Mecca.
3. al-Barrad ibn Qays : A poet and warrior from the Kinana tribe, involved in the killing of 'Urwa.
4. 'Urwa al-Rahhal : A notable of the Hawazin tribe, killed by al-Barrad, sparking the war.
5. sacred month : One of the four months (Muharram, Rajab, Dhu al-Qi'dah, Dhu al-Hijjah) in which fighting was forbidden.
6. Qays : A large Arab tribal confederation, including Hawazin and others.
7. Labid ibn Rabi'a : A famous pre-Islamic poet and companion of the Prophet.
8. Banu Thumayr : A sub-tribe of the Hawazin.
9. Banu Hilal : A prominent Arab tribe, part of the Hawazin confederation.

The Hilf al-Fudul [1] took place in Dhu al-Qa'dah of the mentioned year.

By that the wandering visitor became a resident at Thayman ¹ of Dhī Ṭalāl ². Ḥilf al-Fuḍūl ³ in Dhū al-Qa‘dah of the aforementioned year. Then he, peace and blessings be upon him, attended Ḥilf al-Fuḍūl, which was a matter whose outward aspect was acceptable. Al-Zubayr ibn ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib called for it and reproached those of Quraysh who stayed away from it and withheld. So they gathered in the house of ‘Abd Allāh ibn Jud‘ān and ate with him a feast of the best food and provisions. Then they swore alliances and covenants, and by God the Creator they pledged to be with the oppressed until his right was restored to him. Quraysh named it Ḥilf al-Fuḍūl, and it is a name that was applied to it. (Say to Quraysh, if you visit their clan: O community that excelled through the best of messengers.)

1. Thayman : A place or tribe; possibly a variant of Taym or a location.
2. Dhī Ṭalāl : A place name meaning 'possessor of ruins' or 'of the mound'.
3. Ḥilf al-Fuḍūl : The 'League of the Virtuous' or 'Alliance of the Excellent'; a pre-Islamic pact in Mecca to defend the oppressed, which the Prophet Muhammad attended and later praised.

The Prophet's (peace be upon him) journey to Syria in the year twenty-five of the Elephant [1].

The Hilf al-Fudul ¹ among you has already undertaken... by the Master of the Two Worlds ², the covenant of virtue. The Prophet's (peace be upon him) journey to Syria in the year twenty-five of the Elephant ³. When he (peace be upon him) reached twenty-five years of age, and opinions about him spread among the peoples, he headed for Syria at the suggestion of his uncle Abu Talib, and traveled in trade for Khadija ⁴, the pure from defects. Her servant Maysara went out with him, and he traveled, and the faces of good fortune were bright to receive him, until he arrived at Busra ⁵, protected by the eye of divine care ⁶ in residence and travel. He alighted in the shade of a tree there, under which none would alight except one whom the Maker of the Canopus ⁷ had announced; the monk Nestor ⁸ informed of that, as it is recorded in the Book ⁹. Maysara rejoiced at what he saw of his abundant blessing and witnessed two angels shading him from the heat at the time of midday. Then he sold the merchandise, winning excessive profit, and returned, while the tongue of the state ¹⁰ said: "Welcome to the connection and the returner." (As for Syria, the rain of the clouds... due to his blessings, does not depart from its land.)

1. Hilf al-Fudul : A pre-Islamic pact of chivalry and justice formed by several tribes in Mecca to protect the oppressed; the Prophet Muhammad participated in it before his prophethood.
2. Master of the Two Worlds : A title for the Prophet Muhammad, referring to his mastery over this world and the Hereafter.
3. year of the Elephant : The year of the Prophet's birth, corresponding to 570 CE, when Abraha's army with elephants attacked Mecca.
4. Khadija : The first wife of the Prophet Muhammad, a wealthy merchant woman who employed him and later proposed marriage.
5. Busra : An ancient city in southern Syria, a center of trade and Christianity.
6. eye of divine care : A Sufi term referring to God's special protection and watchfulness over His chosen servants.
7. Maker of the Canopus : A poetic reference to God, who created the star Canopus (Suhayl), used here to indicate divine knowledge.
8. Nestor : A Christian monk who recognized the Prophet Muhammad's prophethood from biblical signs during his journey to Syria.
9. the Book : Refers to the Bible or earlier scriptures that contain prophecies about the coming of Muhammad.
10. tongue of the state : A Sufi concept referring to the silent expression of one's spiritual state or condition.

The construction of the Kaaba in the year thirty-five of the Elephant [1].

And goodness was poured upon him, and how could it not be... And to him came the Prophet, the Messenger ¹. The building of the Kaaba ² in the year thirty-five of the Elephant ³. The flood used to enter the House, so it cracked, and they feared that it would collapse and fall. And a ship of some people from Rome came in the sea, and their leader was a builder named Baqum ⁴. The wind drove it to al-Shu'ayba ⁵, and it broke. So Quraysh ⁶ then knew that the matters of the building had become easy. They bought from its wood what was elevated and useful, and they spoke to the Roman about returning with them for the building, so he returned. They gathered the tools at the purified sanctuary ⁷ for those who visit. And the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, used to carry stones with them. When they finished, they agreed to demolish it, so they demolished it. And they ruled in this matter by what they were inspired, not by what they knew. Then they began the work, hastening to it. They distinguished the House and cast lots for it, and each tribe got a wall out of four. They strove in building a house, how noble and elevated it is! When they reached the place where the Black Stone ⁸ was to be placed, each tribe sought to win the honor of placing it and to succeed. And disagreement occurred among them. Then they agreed to the judgment of the owner of justice and fairness. So he, peace and blessings be upon him, came and judged between them by what each of them inclined to and submitted. They carried it with the edges of a cloak that he threw.

1. al-Mursal : The Messenger, referring to Prophet Muhammad, who is sent by God.
2. al-Ka'ba : The Kaaba, the sacred cube-shaped building in Mecca, direction of prayer for Muslims.
3. al-Fil : The Elephant, referring to the Year of the Elephant (c. 570 CE) when Abraha attacked Mecca with elephants.
4. Baqum : A Roman builder mentioned in Islamic tradition as involved in the Kaaba's reconstruction.
5. al-Shu'ayba : A port near Mecca on the Red Sea coast.
6. Quraysh : The dominant tribe in Mecca at the time of the Prophet Muhammad.
7. al-Haram al-Mutahhar : The purified sanctuary, referring to the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Mecca.
8. al-Hajar : The Black Stone, a sacred stone set into the eastern corner of the Kaaba.

The warning by the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him [1]

Then he raised it from it and placed it in its place with his own hands, and they built it up and arranged it, and erected its pillars and roofed it with wood, and placed the stone behind the wall, and kept it lofty in mention, great in rank, high in minaret. (Concerning this, al-Zubayr ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib says in verses: (We rose hastening to build ... for us from it the foundations and the dust) (The King honored thereby the Banu Lu'ayy ... so there is no loss of their origin) (And there hastened the Banu 'Adi ... and Murra, preceded by Kilab) (So the King established for us thereby honor ... and with God is sought the reward) THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE MESSENGER OF GOD, MAY GOD BLESS HIM AND GRANT HIM PEACE A group of soothsayers announced him, may God bless him and grant him peace, and the rabbis and monks gave glad tidings of his appearance, and the knowledgeable among the people of the Torah and the Gospel acknowledged his prophethood, and the proofs of his message were established, and the daylight needs no proof. Among the sayings of al-Harith al-Ra'ish: (And after them comes a great man ... a prophet who does not permit the forbidden) (He is called Ahmad; would that I ... live a year after his mission) Among the sayings of Tubba': (I testified concerning Ahmad that he is ... a prophet from God, the Creator of souls) (If my life were extended to his lifetime ... I would be his vizier and cousin) (And I would strive with the sword against his enemies ... and relieve his chest of every grief) Among the sayings of Khatr ibn Malik the soothsayer: (I swear by the Ka'ba and the pillars ... ) (And the secure land, the custodians ... ) (He has prevented the hearing of the rebellious jinn ... ) (With a piercing [flame] from the hand of a possessor of authority ... ) (Because of a great-ranked envoy ... ) (He is sent with the Revelation and the Qur'an ... ) And from his saying: (I see for my people what I see for myself ... ) (That they follow the best prophet of mankind ... ) (His proof is like the rays of the sun ... ) (He is sent from Mecca, the abode of the Hums ¹ ... ) (With the firm Revelation, without confusion ... ) Among the sayings of Satih the soothsayer to 'Abd al-Masih: (The messenger of Kisra ², 'Abd al-Masih, on a swift camel, came to Satih when he stood over the tomb: The king of Sasan sent you because of the shaking of the arch ³, the extinguishing of the fires ⁴, the dream of the Magian priests ⁵; when recitation increases, the owner of the staff appears, Lake Sawah dries up, and the water of Samawah overflows, then Syria is not Syria for Satih.) Among the sayings of Sawad ibn Qarib the soothsayer: (I marvel at the jinn and their seeking ... and their saddling the camels with their packsaddles) (They hasten to Mecca seeking guidance ... the truthful jinn is not like the liar) (So travel to the chosen one of Hashim ... their forelocks are not like their tails) Among the sayings of Waraqa ibn Nawfal the rabbi: (And I think that he will be sent as a truthful one ... as the servants Hud and Salih were sent) (And Moses and Abraham, until there appears for him ... a splendor and a clear book from the Remembrance) And among what was heard from the mouth of an idol called Dumar: (Say to the tribes of Quraysh all ... Dumar has perished and the people of the mosque have succeeded)

1. al-Hums : A term used for the Quraysh and their allies who were considered especially devout in pre-Islamic times, often associated with the sanctuary of Mecca.
2. Kisra : Title of the Sasanian kings of Persia, equivalent to 'Chosroes'.
3. shaking of the arch : Refers to the portico (iwan) of the Sasanian palace at Ctesiphon, which was said to have shaken as a sign of the Prophet's birth.
4. extinguishing of the fires : Refers to the sacred fire of the Zoroastrians in Persia, which was said to have gone out at the time of the Prophet's birth.
5. Magian priests : Zoroastrian priests; 'al-mubadhan' is the Persian term for them.

The mission of the Prophet, peace be upon him, began in the year forty of the Elephant [1].

Indeed, the one who inherited prophethood and guidance... after the son of Mary, from Quraysh, guided. (The one who) perished in obscurity and once worshipped... before the Scripture, to the Prophet Muhammad. The mission of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, was in the year forty of the Elephant ¹. God sent him at the age of forty, adorned the horizons of prophethood with the light of his moon, honored him with dignity, and cast upon him the keys of leadership. Revelation began with true dreams, and his soul yearned for seclusion in Hira ², loving it. He would stay in its cave for many nights, and he continued until the Truth suddenly came from the One, the Eternal. Then Gabriel appeared to him, gave him glad tidings of the message, and poured upon him, from God, the garments of majesty, and treated him gently to distinguish him from the sects. He brought out a book for him on a patterned cloth and said to him: "Read in the name of your Lord who created" ³. Then he struck the ground with his foot, and a spring gushed forth. He taught him ablution and commanded him to pray two rak'ahs ⁴. Then he departed and left him dwelling in the garden of contentment. That was on Monday, the seventeenth of Ramadan. The king of Persia at that time was Abrawiz ⁵ son of Hurmuz ⁶ son of Kisra ⁷ Anushirwan ⁸.

1. al-Fīl : The Year of the Elephant, a reference to the year of the Prophet's birth, when Abraha's army with elephants attacked Mecca.
2. Ḥirā' : A cave on Mount Nur near Mecca where the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation.
3. Iqra' bismi rabbika alladhī khalaq : The first revealed verse of the Quran, meaning 'Read in the name of your Lord who created.'
4. rak'ah : A unit of Islamic prayer, consisting of a sequence of standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting.
5. Abrawīz : Khosrow II, also known as Parviz, a Sasanian king of Persia (r. 590–628 CE).
6. Hurmuz : Hormizd IV, father of Khosrow II, Sasanian king (r. 579–590 CE).
7. Kisrā : Title for Sasanian kings, derived from 'Khosrow'.
8. Anūshirwān : Khosrow I, also known as Anushirvan, Sasanian king (r. 531–579 CE), famous for his justice.

He mentioned the eight who preceded in faith [1].

When prophethood began and Gabriel descended to him, he did not pass by any stone or tree without it greeting him. He continued calling to Allah in secret for three years until the revelation came to him: {And warn your closest kindred} ¹. Then he made the call public, established the pillars of resolve, delivered the message, fulfilled the trust, and advised the nation. (He was sent, the seal of Quraysh, as a mercy... to the worlds and a refuge for people.) (Gabriel came to him and approached him... with the glad tidings of honor and comfort.) (Upon him was bestowed a prophetic robe... whose radiance erased the darkness of ignorance.) (How noble is the messenger whose signs... are witnessed on the day of generosity and valor.) Mention of the eight who preceded in faith: The first male to believe in Allah and His Messenger was Ali ibn Abi Talib. This is a virtue with no equal in its radiant face among merits. He accepted Islam at the age of ten and followed the one who had always been kind to him—i.e., compassionate. He would become aware of his secrets and conceal them, keeping them hidden, and he would accompany him even in the valleys of Mecca to perform prayer there. Then Zayd ibn Haritha accepted Islam and believed in the possessor of firm pillars and established foundations, preferring him over his father and remaining in his service. He is one whose high rank and precedence in virtue are undeniable. Then Abu Bakr al-Siddiq accepted Islam, whose goodness is known only to the people of realization. He was a man of good character, easy to assist and help; his people inclined toward him, sought refuge with him, and devoted themselves to him. When he accepted Islam, he made his religion public and called to Islam. Responding to his call were Uthman ibn Affan, al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam, Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf, Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas, and Talha ibn Ubayd Allah, each renowned for loyalty and sincerity. He brought them to the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and they uttered the words of Islam before him, believed in what he brought, and prayed with him—may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him. What excellent eight they are! Allah covered them with the clouds of beneficence and raised their mention in His words: {Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith} ². (The first forerunners, young men... their number, as it came, is eight.)

1. وَأَنذِرْ عَشِيرَتَكَ الْأَقْرَبِينَ : Quran 26:214: 'And warn your closest kindred.'
2. رَبَّنَا اغْفِرْ لَنَا وَلِإِخْوَانِنَا الَّذِينَ سَبَقُونَا بِالْإِيمَانِ : Quran 59:10: 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith.'

The public proclamation of the call occurred in the fourth year of prophethood [1].

Their abode is in a lofty garden... whose clusters hang low, within easy reach. ¹ The public proclamation of the call in the fourth year of prophethood. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, remained in Mecca in concealment for three years. Then, in the fourth year, he made the call public, inviting to Islam. He would approach the tribes arriving in the Hijaz and attend the seasonal fairs at 'Ukaz, Majanna, and Dhu al-Majaz, conveying his Lord's messages, urging them to listen to his words and support his party, calling them to faith, promising them success and divine pleasure, and asking them to believe in him, follow him, and aid him so that he might make God's message clear and be protected. But he found no helper or supporter, and saw only those who were miserly and reluctant to give what he asked of them. Quraysh would command people not to obey him and warn them against listening to him and his followers. He remained among them, delivering the message and warning, for ten years, seeking help from Him who sent down His tranquility upon him and the believers. ² "The Messenger of God warned his people for years, calling them to success and victory." "But none responded to God except a few young men, while in transgression and tyranny the disbeliever increased."

1. jannah 'āliyah : A lofty garden, referring to Paradise, described as elevated and sublime.
2. sakīnah : Divine tranquility or peace sent down by God upon the believers, as mentioned in the Quran.

The affair of Quraysh with Abu Talib [1]

When God willed to manifest His religion... despite the spite of the polytheists, it appeared. The affair of Quraysh with Abu Talib When the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, addressed his people with Islam and openly proclaimed what he was commanded by the King of All-Knowing, they did not respond to him nor did they distance themselves from what he inclined to. But when he criticized their idols and belittled their opinions and intellects, they opposed him, agreed to oppose him, argued with him, and secretly intended to destroy him. So his uncle Abu Talib defended him and protected him from the evil of those who hid and those who went out openly. Then a group of their nobles went to him and reminded him of what they had suffered from the cursing of their gods and the misguidance of their forefathers, and they spoke to him about restraining his nephew from them. He replied to them in the best manner, fearing them. Then after that, they intensified, and polytheism cast them into a snare of destruction. So they went to him another time and said, "We cannot bear this any longer," and they spoke harshly to him, giving him a choice between abandoning his nephew or fighting. He showed them bravery and steadfastness and said, "By God, I will never surrender him to anything." So the heat of ferocity blazed, the matter became serious, enmity intensified, and they attacked the weak Muslims, harming them, tempting them from their religion, and torturing them. Then Abu Talib stood among the Banu Hashim and called them to support the oppressed and break the oppressor, and they responded to him, proceeding to what he called them to. {And God repelled those who disbelieved in their rage, they gained no good.} Concerning this, Abu Talib said in verses: "When Quraysh gather one day for boasting, 'Abd Manaf is their core and essence. And if the lineages of 'Abd Manaf are examined, In Hashim are its nobles and ancients. And if they boast one day, then Muhammad Is the chosen one from its core and noble. Quraysh, both worthless and worthy, gathered against us, But they did not succeed, and their minds were confused." And in it he said from a long poem: "You lie, by the House of God, Muhammad will be protected, As long as we thrust spears and shoot arrows for him. We will not surrender him until we fall around him, And neglect our sons and wives. No people, may you have no father, abandon a leader, A trustworthy brother, a defender of the truth, a lion."

The story of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib [1]

And a white-faced one ¹ by whose face rain is sought from the clouds, a refuge for orphans, a protector for widows. By my life, I have been burdened with love for Ahmad ² and his brothers, like the habit of a devoted lover who never ceases. For who is like him among people, any hope, when judges measure him in comparison? A wise, rightly guided, just, not reckless one, he befriends a God who is not heedless of him. The story of Hamza ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib: When Hamza learned that Abu Jahl had insulted the Prophet, peace be upon him, and said about him some things he disliked, while he remained silent and did not speak—and he was very strong, harsh in nature and combat, the most noble youth among Quraysh, with no lightness or recklessness in the balance of his mind—tribal zeal took hold of him and carried him to the place of guidance, with the wind of anger, until he went out running like a lion and proceeded toward Abu Jahl, not turning aside for anyone. When he entered the mosque and saw him among the people, he approached him, with no blame or reproach affecting him. He raised his bow and struck him on the head, inflicting a severe wound that almost brought about his day of resurrection. He spoke to him with what he disliked and rebuked him for what he had done to his nephew, saying, 'Indeed, I...'

1. abyad : Literally 'white', but in classical Arabic poetry it often denotes a noble, pure, or radiant person, here referring to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Ahmad : Another name of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'most praiseworthy'.

The story of ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb [1]

I heard and obeyed him, so return that to me if you can. Then men from Banu Makhzum stood up to him, and the clamor of gossip and dispute arose among them. He left them and went away, and He ¹ placed fire in their hearts. He remained steadfast in Islam, rejoicing in the honor that Allah had granted him. He is the one who said, when he embraced Islam, in verses: (I praised Allah when He guided my heart To Islam and the true religion ²) (And Ahmad ³, the chosen one among us, is obeyed, So do not approach him with harsh speech) The Story of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab 'Umar ibn al-Khattab was harsh in character, intensely hostile to the best of mankind ⁴ without exception. He set out, girded with his sword, intending to kill him, where Allah willed his guidance, just as He guided those before him. Nu'aym ibn 'Abdullah al-Nahham met him and informed him of the conversion of his sister Fatima and her husband Sa'id to Islam, and that Khabbab ibn al-Aratt was teaching them the Quran. So he hastened to go to them to meet them with injustice and aggression. He heard them reciting and saw a scroll with them, but his sister hid it from him when she sensed [his anger].

1. Allah : God, the Almighty, who placed fire (i.e., enmity or punishment) in their hearts.
2. al-din al-hanif : The pure, monotheistic religion of Islam, following the original faith of Abraham.
3. Ahmad : One of the names of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'most praiseworthy'.
4. afdal al-bashar : The best of mankind, referring to the Prophet Muhammad.

The story of Bādhān, the king of Yemen [1].

He feared him, struck her, took the scroll from her, then felt compassion for her after that and remained silent about it. When he read what was in it of Surah Ta-Ha and understood it, he said with the tongue of success ¹: 'How beautiful and noble this is!' He asked them about the location of the Chosen Prophet ², and they said: 'He is in a house with a group of his companions near al-Safa.' So he headed to them and asked their permission to enter. When permission was granted to him, he greeted the people and embraced Islam at the hands of the Messenger. The Muslims became strong through him and through Hamza, and they were granted honor through his Islam—what honor! He exerted all effort in fighting the polytheists to make the religion manifest. In short, his Islam was a conquest, as 'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud said: 'When the people mention the famous one of their righteousness, / Then hail to the ascetic, the God-fearing 'Umar. / An imam with virtue, by which he succored mankind, / And justice by which he enriched the land from rain.' The story of Badhan, king of Yemen: When the Chosen Messenger was sent and his fame spread throughout all regions, Kisra wrote to Badhan, king of Yemen: 'It has reached me that a man from Quraysh claims to be a trusted prophet. Strive to go to his place and send me his head if he does not recant his words.' So Badhan sent Kisra's letter to the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, and he replied that God had...

1. lisān al-tawfīq : The tongue of success; a phrase indicating speech inspired by divine guidance and success.
2. al-nabī al-muṣṭafā : The Chosen Prophet; a title for the Prophet Muhammad, emphasizing his selection by God.

The story of al-Tufayl ibn 'Amr al-Dawsi [1]

He promised me to kill him, and Bādhān ¹ appointed a day for him. So he waited at the ears ² to look and ascertain, and God killed Kisrā ³ at the hands of his son on that appointed day. And Bādhān sent word of his conversion and the conversion of his companions, and God sufficed against the evil of the tyrant who sought his punishment through His Book. Concerning this, Khālid ibn Ḥaqq ⁴ said: "And Kisrā, when his sons divided him with swords as butchers divide meat, The years brought forth for him a day that came, and every pregnant one has its term." The Story of al-Ṭufayl ibn ʿAmr al-Dawsī ⁵ When al-Ṭufayl came to Mecca, the Sacred Land, Quraysh warned him against meeting the Prophet, peace be upon him. He was a man of great stature, intelligent, and skilled in composing poetry. He went to the Mosque and found him standing in prayer at the Kaʿba, and heard from him words that expanded his chest and delighted his heart. He waited until he finished his prayer and followed him to his house for his success and salvation. Then he entered upon him and said, "O Muḥammad, your people have frightened me about your sorcery. I have heard from you good words, so present your matter to me." He presented to him the religion of Islam and recited from the Qurʾān what bewildered the masters of dreams. So he embraced Islam, rejoicing in his proximity to goodness and his nearness, and asked him to be a helper for him in the Islam of his companions. Then he went out to his people, hoping for their closeness to guidance and righteousness. When he drew near to them, a light appeared at the head of his whip, shining like a lamp. He descended upon them, striving for their entry into Islam through his supplication, and he did not cease until he came to Khaybar with seventy houses from Daws under his banner. He continued wrapped in the garments of honor until he was killed, may God have mercy on him, as a martyr at al-Yamāma ⁶. "O Dawsī, rejoice in divine pleasure; you have attained guidance and striven for reform. And there came to you from the Messenger a honor: a light upon you shining like a lamp."

1. Bādhān : Persian governor of Yemen under the Sasanian Empire who converted to Islam after the death of Khosrow II.
2. ears : Literally 'ears'; likely a reference to a place or a metaphorical expression for waiting attentively.
3. Kisrā : Title for the Sasanian king of Persia, specifically Khosrow II.
4. Khālid ibn Ḥaqq : A poet from the early Islamic period, known for his verses on historical events.
5. al-Ṭufayl ibn ʿAmr al-Dawsī : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, chief of the Daws tribe, who converted to Islam and later died as a martyr in the Battle of al-Yamāma.
6. al-Yamāma : A region in central Arabia, site of a battle during the Ridda Wars where many companions were martyred.

The story of Rukana ibn Abd Yazid al-Mutallibi [1]

The story of Rukāna ibn ʿAbd Yazīd al-Muṭṭalibī Rukāna was the most powerful of Quraysh and the highest in bodily strength and spirit. The Prophet ﷺ met him alone in one of the mountain passes and spoke to him, hoping to guide him to the path of righteousness. He said, "If I knew you were truthful, I would follow you." He replied, "Do you know that what I say is true if I wrestle you?" He understood the address and gave the answer. When the strong and trustworthy one ¹ threw him twice, and in his grip almost delivered him to death, he said, "O Muḥammad, by Allah, I am amazed at what happened." He said, "And more amazing than that is that I call this tree you see." So he called it, and it came until it stood before him. Then he said to it, "Return to your place," and it returned according to his gesture ﷺ. This is a flower from the garden of His signs and a drop from the rain of His proof, whose ultimate limits cannot be grasped. (How many a miracle of the bringer of good tidings and warner ², among them the immediate obedience of the tree) (Honored be that venerable palm, which left for us such fruit as this)

1. al-amīn : The trustworthy one; a title of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ.
2. al-bashīr al-nadhīr : The bringer of good tidings and the warner; epithets of the Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ in the Qur'an.

The mention of the emigrants to Abyssinia, first and second, in the fifth year of the Prophethood [1].

Mention of the Emigrants to Abyssinia, first and second time, in the fifth year of the Prophethood. Twelve men and four women from the Companions set out secretly, having heard from Quraysh what they disliked and having suffered evil from them, until they reached the coastal port of Shu'ayba ¹. There they found people of noble character ² who treated them kindly and carried them, and they transported them to the land of Abyssinia by ship. Quraysh set out in pursuit of them but did not achieve their goal of catching them. When they arrived at the aforementioned land, they lived under a king whose conduct was praiseworthy, and they remained secure in their persons and their religion, occupied with worship of their Guide and Helper. Then they heard that Quraysh had embraced Islam and had withdrawn from the pit of desire and desisted, so they returned to Mecca and came back. But when they entered it, they found the matter contrary to what they had heard, so the people [of Quraysh] became harsh with them and met them with reproach and blame. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave them permission to leave, so they left and proceeded back to the nest from which they had come. They were eighty-three men and eighteen women of the veiled ones ³; they stayed with the Negus ⁴ for a period of time, and he treated them well and bestowed favors upon them in secret and in public. When the noble Hijra ⁵ reached them and news of the exalted migration came to them, some of them returned to the standard of their distinction ⁶, while the rest remained until the king ordered their dispatch. He carried them by ship, as commanded, to Medina. Among what 'Abdullah ibn al-Harith said in the land of Abyssinia: "O rider, convey from me a message to one who hopes for the fulfillment of God and religion. Indeed, we found God's earth spacious, delivering from humiliation, disgrace, and degradation. So do not remain in the humiliation of life and shame in death, and a blame not secure. Indeed, we followed the Messenger of God, and they cast aside the Prophet's saying and exaggerated in the scales."

1. Shu'ayba : A coastal port near Mecca, used for maritime travel.
2. dhawī athniyatin 'itriyya : People of noble and fragrant character; 'athniya' refers to praise or commendable qualities.
3. dhawāt al-ḥijāl : Literally 'those of the curtains,' meaning women who are veiled or secluded, i.e., free Muslim women.
4. al-Najāshī : The title of the king of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) at the time, known as Ashama ibn Abjar, who granted asylum to the Muslim emigrants.
5. al-Hijra al-sharīfa : The noble emigration; refers to the Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
6. nāṣib 'ilm tamyīzihim : The standard of their distinction; metaphorically refers to the Prophet Muhammad in Medina, the focal point of their identity.

The matter of the parchment and the people occurred in Muharram of the seventh year of the Prophethood [1].

The affair of the document and the valley in Muharram of the seventh year of prophethood. When Quraysh learned of the Negus's ¹ honor towards the Companions, the night of anger overwhelmed them and a cloud extended over them. They wrote a document against the Banu Hashim containing chapters of boycott and doors [of persecution]. They hung the document in the interior of the Kaaba, then forced them into every difficult plan and besieged them in the valley of Abu Talib. They prevailed over those present and strove to capture the absent. They cut off from them supplies and provisions, observing no right of companionship or neighborliness. They concealed their smiling lightning [i.e., showed no kindness] and prevented them from leaving except during the seasons [of pilgrimage]. They did not allow them to seek help or to trade. Their stay there lasted three years. Then Allah informed His Messenger about the matter of the document, that the termites had eaten from it except the noble names of Allah. When Abu Talib conveyed the news to them, they investigated the matter and found it as he had said. So their wind subsided and their eloquent ones became mute. Then the document was torn up and the slander in it was nullified. Allah brought them out of the valley and saved them from the people of oppression and aggression. Concerning this, Abu Talib said: "Oh, convey from me to our assembly, Luyay and especially the sons of Ka'b from Luyay. Do you not know that we found Muhammad a prophet like Moses, inscribed in the earliest scriptures? And that what you have stuck in your document will be for you like the grazing of the valley's sheep [i.e., futile]? Come to your senses, come to your senses before the dust is dug [i.e., before death], and one who has committed no sin becomes like one who has. Do not follow the command of the slanderers and cut our ties after affection and kinship. For by the Lord of the House, we will not surrender Ahmad to the distress of one who bites his hands in regret or hardship. We do not tire of war until it tires of us, and we do not complain of what befalls us from calamities. But we are people of resolve and intellect when the souls of brave warriors fly from fear."

1. al-Najāshī : The title of the ruler of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) at the time, who granted asylum to the Muslim emigrants.

The Prophet's (peace be upon him) departure to Ta'if in the tenth year of prophethood [1].

The departure of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to Ta'if in the tenth year of prophethood. When his uncle Abu Talib and his wife Khadija died, and the beautiful leaves of the tree of their support for him withered, he stayed at home and went out less, grieving for them with a grief that stirred and surged like a sea. Quraysh harmed him and treated him with levity and recklessness. So he went out with Zayd ibn Haritha to Ta'if and proclaimed the call ¹ without fear or dread. But none of them responded to him, and they incited the foolish people of the town against him, and they considered his blessed arrival an ill omen. So he returned to Mecca sorrowful. When he halted at Nakhlah ², he stood praying at night, while the cause of divine support poured down upon him like a flood. Seven jinn turned to him, listening to the Quran. When he finished, they went back to their people, calling them to faith. Then he entered Mecca under the protection of Mut'im ibn 'Adi, while the tongue of truth recited to Quraysh: "Whom God guides, he is the guided one." And concerning Mut'im, Hassan ibn Thabit said in some verses: "You granted refuge to the Messenger of God from them, so they became / your servants, as long as the pilgrim cries 'Labbaik' and assumes ihram ³."

1. da'wah : The call to Islam, inviting people to worship God alone.
2. Nakhlah : A valley near Ta'if, also known as Wadi Nakhlah.
3. ihram : The sacred state of ritual purity for pilgrimage, marked by special garments.

The Night Journey of the Prophet, peace be upon him, occurred in the twelfth year of his prophethood [1].

If there were one whose glory would immortalize time forever... from among people, his glory would preserve time as a provider. The Night Journey of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, occurred in the twelfth year of prophethood. He was called to the Divine Presence ¹ one year before the Hijra ², and he was taken by night from Mecca to Jerusalem ³, a blessed journey and a praiseworthy ascent. He led the prophets in prayer at the Al-Aqsa Mosque ⁴ and was granted blessings beyond count and measure. Then he mounted the steed known as Al-Buraq ⁵ and ascended to a place where time was pleasant and delightful for him. Gabriel would open the gates for him, and the prophets would greet him in the heavens with salutations and welcome. He was favored in the highest horizon with the loftiest station: {Then he drew near and descended, and was at a distance of two bow-lengths or nearer} ⁶. He saw the Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary ⁷ and heard the scratching of pens ⁸. The five daily prayers were prescribed for him, and the banners were raised. He was adorned in the garments of his Lord's blessings and beneficence, and he witnessed what he witnessed of His signs, power, and dominion. His Night Journey was a lesson for those of understanding and a confirmation for those who clung to the most trustworthy means of guidance. {Glory be to Him who took His servant by night and placed him in a station high above the sun and moon.}

1. al-ḥaḍra : The Divine Presence; a term used in Sufism and Islamic theology to refer to the presence of God.
2. al-Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
3. Bayt al-Maqdis : Jerusalem; literally 'the Holy House,' referring to the city and its sacred sites.
4. al-Masjid al-Aqṣā : The Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, the third holiest site in Islam.
5. al-Burāq : A mythical steed, described as a white animal smaller than a mule but larger than a donkey, that carried the Prophet during the Night Journey.
6. Qāba qawsayn aw adnā : A Quranic phrase (53:9) describing the proximity of the Prophet to God during the Ascension, meaning 'two bow-lengths or nearer.'
7. Sidrat al-Muntahā : The Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary, a celestial tree marking the end of the seventh heaven, beyond which no creation can pass.
8. ṣarīf al-aqlām : The scratching of pens; a reference to the sound of angels recording destinies or divine decrees.

The first obstacle occurred in the twelfth year of the prophethood [1].

And he made the archangel Gabriel a servant... to him and granted him protection and victory. A prophet ascended towards the heaven for his virtue... and witnessed what therein confounds the minds. And the Lord of the Throne, exalted be His praise, spoke to him in private... and bestowed upon him in the Holy Presence glad tidings. And how many similar great miracles... and signs of utmost import beyond enumeration. The First Pledge in the twelfth year of prophethood. When Allah Almighty desired to grant victory to His Prophet, manifest His religion, and fulfill His promise to elevate his mention and establish him, He led him to the Aws and Khazraj ¹, whom divine success had bridled and saddled the steeds of their nature, and He brought him to a group whose star of fortune had risen and shone. He sat with them, commanded them to believe, called them to Allah, and recited the Qur'an to them. They received his command with acceptance, responded to Allah and the Messenger, and then departed in the best of states. They were eight or six, according to differing accounts. When the great season ² of Mecca came, both non-Arabs and Arabs, twelve men from them met him at night near al-‘Aqaba ³. They embraced Islam, pledged allegiance, followed the paths of the righteous, persevered, affirmed, believed, and cooperated in righteousness and piety. Then they returned to Medina, openly proclaiming Islam, rejoicing in the guidance, care, and honor they had obtained. Truly the Ansar ⁴ have attained eternal glory... and won the precedence and the highest station. They drew near, benefited, and were benefited, and they turned... to preserve what endures and gave generously what perishes. And what can people say in description of a folk... whom the Messenger of Allah has praised with goodness? Among them, al-Nu‘man ibn Kathir says: Noble ones from the sons of Qibla ⁵ who found no... companion to blame in their association. Generous heroes who vie in giving... seeing upon themselves the obligation of their fathers' noble deeds.

1. al-Aws wa al-Khazraj : Two major Arab tribes in Medina (Yathrib) who later became the Ansar (helpers) of the Prophet Muhammad.
2. al-mawsim al-jāmi‘ : The pilgrimage season (Hajj) when people from various tribes gathered in Mecca.
3. al-‘Aqaba : A location near Mina, close to Mecca, where the first and second pledges of allegiance (Bay‘at al-‘Aqaba) took place.
4. al-Anṣār : The 'Helpers,' the Muslim inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet Muhammad and the Muhajirun (emigrants from Mecca).
5. Qibla : Here, 'sons of Qibla' likely refers to the direction of prayer (qibla) or a tribal lineage; contextually, it may denote the Ansar as people of the qibla (i.e., Muslims).

The final obstacle occurred in the thirteenth year of the prophetic mission [1].

The second pledge of al-ʿAqaba occurred in the thirteenth year of the Prophethood. Then the Muslims went out during the days of Hajj, seventy men, making their way to the Mother of Cities ¹ seeking paths to the settlement. When they halted in its courtyard and inhaled the fragrance from its regions, they came to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and those who spoke spoke with him concerning the matter of the noble emigration. He promised them the ravine of al-ʿAqaba on the night of the first departure ². So they gathered, trusting in his promise by which he had favored them, and they informed him of what they sought of support and intended, and they pledged allegiance to him upon loyalty and truthfulness and the sacrifice of lives for his sake. He chose from among them twelve leaders ³ and made each of them a guarantor and overseer over his people. When they finished their discussion, he ordered them to disperse to their camps. Quraysh learned of their news and hastened to follow their traces. They caught up with Saʿd ibn ʿUbada and seized him, and he escaped from them after they almost killed him. Then they all returned to Tayba the Good ⁴, trusting in the Sufficing One ⁵ upon whom they rely and from whom they seek help. Concerning this, Kaʿb ibn Malik said in verses:

1. Umm al-Qurā : Literally 'Mother of the Towns,' a title for Mecca.
2. laylat al-nafr al-awwal : The night of the first departure from Mina during Hajj, corresponding to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah.
3. naqīb : A leader or representative chosen to oversee a group, from the root meaning 'to examine' or 'to be surety.'
4. Ṭayba al-Ṭayyiba : A name for Medina, meaning 'the good' or 'the pleasant.'
5. al-Kāfī : One of God's names, meaning 'the Sufficing One' or 'the One who suffices.'

The Noble Hijra [1] occurred in the thirteenth year of the Prophethood [2].

He said: 'Inform my father that his opinion has failed... and the morning of the people has come, and fate is imminent.' And inform Abu Sufyan that there has appeared to us... with Ahmad a light from God's guidance, shining. God refuses what your soul promised you, that He is... an observer and hearer of the people's affair. The Noble Hijra in the thirteenth year of prophethood. When the seventy Ansar departed, hearts were relieved, eyes were comforted, and the Muslims understood the Companions' departure, they shot arrows of accuracy towards their direction, tightened upon them, doubled their mistreatment, exaggerated in insulting them, and floundered in the darkness of their oppression. So they complained to the Prophet (peace be upon him) of their burden and asked his permission for hijra, and he permitted them. So they began to prepare, accompany each other, leave in fear, and follow one another until they arrived in Medina, old and young, flying to the nests of the Ansar in groups and individually. They gave them shelter and overwhelmed them with the rain of kindness. At that point, the polytheists feared the Messenger's departure and knew that the Muslims' obligation would be strengthened by his hijra. So they gathered in the House of Assembly ¹ and agreed to kill the one whom God had made a model for people, and they lay in wait for him in his house at night, thinking they would achieve something from him, but they failed and lost, and broke their teeth on the divine model. Then he (peace be upon him) migrated and left with permission from the One who sent down the Quran and spoke. He went with Abu Bakr to the Cave of Thawr ². The people of oppression and injustice intensified in pursuit of them, tracking their footprints until they reached the cave's entrance. When they saw the spider's web and the pigeon's nest, they retreated on their heels as if being driven to death. Then their resolve strengthened to travel after staying in the cave for three nights. He ordered Abdullah ibn Urayqit ³ to travel, and they took him as a guide knowledgeable of the roads. Amir ibn Fuhayra ⁴ followed them in service. They traveled, enveloped in the blessing of the One who completed His grace upon him. While they were traveling, heading towards their destination, Suraqa ibn Malik ⁵ appeared to them on the road. The legs of his horse sank into the ground as a miracle for the owner of the radiant face. Then he was released by the blessing of his prayer and undertook to repel the pursuing polytheists from behind. During their journey, they passed by Umm Ma'bad ⁶, who was known for hospitality and sought after. They stopped in the shade of her pitched tent, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) blessed her exhausted sheep, so it grazed and produced milk. They drank until they were satisfied. Then they continued, not ascending a mountain without it being fragrant with their perfume, nor crossing a valley without a good deed being recorded for them, until the Prophet (peace be upon him) arrived, blessed of foot, elevated in rank, radiant in measure, a general mercy for people. He alighted in Quba' ⁷ and halted at its courtyard. The Muslims went out to meet him, rejoicing at what appeared to them from the horizon of his sky, rushing to greet him and honored to stand before him. He stayed there for fourteen days, then moved on. His arrival was on Monday in the month of Rabi' al-Awwal. When he entered Medina, he proceeded until he reached the site of his mosque. Every tribe invited him to their numbers and preparations, delighted by his auspicious arrival and rejoicing in the preservation of his hidden essence. Then he stayed in the house of Abu Ayyub ⁸ and took control of the desired abode of his hijra. He set down his luggage there and sent to Mecca for his family. He established brotherhood between the Muhajirun and the Ansar, and continued striving in obedience to the One whom eyes cannot perceive, yet He perceives all eyes. The people of Mecca heard after his departure a caller saying: 'May God, the Lord of people, reward with the best of His reward... two companions who camped at Umm Ma'bad's tent. They alighted with goodness and departed with it... so successful is he who becomes Muhammad's companion. Congratulations to the Banu Ka'b for the place of their young woman... and her sitting place for the believers is an observation post.' Regarding his arrival in Medina, Abu Qays al-Ansari said in verses: 'He stayed among Quraysh for over ten years... remembering, hoping to meet a friendly friend. When he came to us, God manifested His religion... so he became joyful in Tayyiba ⁹, content. He recounts to us what Noah said to his people... and what Moses said when he answered the caller. We oppose whoever opposes all people... entirely, even if he is a beloved friend. And he no longer fears any person... near or far.'

1. Dar al-Nadwa : The assembly house of the Quraysh in Mecca where they held councils and made decisions.
2. Ghār Thawr : The Cave of Thawr, a cave on Mount Thawr near Mecca where the Prophet and Abu Bakr hid during the Hijra.
3. Abdullah ibn Urayqit : A polytheist guide hired by the Prophet to lead him and Abu Bakr to Medina during the Hijra.
4. Amir ibn Fuhayra : A Companion and servant of Abu Bakr who accompanied them during the Hijra.
5. Suraqa ibn Malik : A Qurayshi horseman who pursued the Prophet during the Hijra but was miraculously stopped.
6. Umm Ma'bad : A woman known for her hospitality; the Prophet and his companions stopped at her tent during the Hijra.
7. Quba' : A village on the outskirts of Medina where the Prophet first stayed and built the first mosque in Islam.
8. Abu Ayyub al-Ansari : A Companion from Medina who hosted the Prophet upon his arrival in Medina.
9. Tayyiba : One of the names of Medina, meaning 'the good/pure city'.

The construction of the mosque in Medina in the year one of the Hijra [1].

The construction of the mosque in Medina in the year one of the Hijra ¹. Then the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, purchased the drying yard ² and ordered the removal of what was in it of graves, palm trees, and boxthorn ³, paying ten dinars ⁴ of pure gold ⁵ for it, and it belonged to two orphan boys from the Banu al-Najjar ⁶. Then he began building the mosque founded on piety ⁷, seeking help from his companions described with seriousness and generosity, and built it with bricks and stones, adorning it with his gaze of beauty and freshness, and made its qibla ⁸ toward Jerusalem, and raised its pillars among the inhabited mosques ⁹, and laid its roof with palm branches, and adorned its neck with its unique necklace, and opened three doors for it, and clothed it with the best garments of blessing. Then he built beside it houses for himself and his wives, and lived with them, steadfastly raising the word of God morning and evening, and he used to help his companions in the construction of the mosque, saying: "This is the burden, not the burden of Khaybar ¹⁰; this is more pious and purer to our Lord."

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. marbad : A drying yard for dates, a piece of land used for drying dates.
3. gharqad : A type of thorny shrub, boxthorn (Lycium shawii), common in the Arabian Peninsula.
4. dinar : A gold coin used in early Islamic times, originally a Byzantine solidus.
5. nidar : Pure gold, often referring to high-quality gold.
6. Banu al-Najjar : A clan of the Khazraj tribe in Medina, related to the Prophet's maternal grandfather.
7. taqwa : Piety, God-consciousness, or fear of God; a key Islamic concept.
8. qibla : The direction of prayer for Muslims, initially toward Jerusalem, later changed to Mecca.
9. masajid ma'mura : The 'inhabited mosques' or 'flourishing mosques,' possibly referring to the Kaaba or the heavenly mosque.
10. Khaybar : An oasis north of Medina, site of a battle in 628 CE against Jewish tribes.

The command of the adhan [1] was in the first year of the Hijra [2].

And Ali ibn Abi Talib said, while reciting in rajaz meter, working: (Not equal are those who maintain the mosques...) (Striving therein, standing and sitting...) (And those who shun the dust...) The matter of the adhan ¹ was in the year one of the Hijra ². When the community of the Ansar ³ was united, the banner of Islam was raised, the five prayers were established, and the lawful and unlawful were ordained, the caller would say at that time: "As-salat jami'ah ⁴," and the people of humble hearts would gather to perform the obligatory prayer. The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was concerned about the matter of the adhan and resolved to appoint two men to the elevated place of Medina ⁵ for the announcement. The naqus ⁶ and the buq ⁷ were mentioned before him, but he disliked the emblem of the disobedient and sinful, until Abdullah ibn Zayd saw a dream in which the adhan was taught. He came in the morning and conveyed the blessed words to the Lord of clear signs, and narrated them. The Prophet ordered him to convey what he had heard to Bilal. Similarly, Umar al-Faruq ⁸ saw it between guidance and misguidance. The Imam ⁹ praised his Lord, thanked Him, and rejoiced at the agreement of the dreams of Abdullah and Umar. Bilal continued to adorn the ears of the people with the pearls of his adhan. Then he added for the dawn prayer his saying: "As-salat khayrun min an-nawm ¹⁰," and the possessor of the Sharia ¹¹ confirmed it. And it was said to Bilal.

1. adhan : The Islamic call to prayer, recited by a muezzin.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Ansar : The 'Helpers,' the Muslim inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet Muhammad after his migration.
4. As-salat jami'ah : An Arabic phrase meaning 'Prayer is gathering,' used as a call to congregational prayer before the institution of the adhan.
5. elevated place of Medina : Refers to a high place in Medina used for making announcements, possibly the roof of the mosque or a specific elevated spot.
6. naqus : A wooden clapper or gong used by Eastern Christians to call to prayer.
7. buq : A horn or trumpet, often associated with Jewish or other religious practices.
8. Umar al-Faruq : Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second Caliph, known as 'al-Faruq' (the one who distinguishes between truth and falsehood).
9. Imam : Here refers to the Prophet Muhammad as the leader of the Muslim community.
10. As-salat khayrun min an-nawm : Arabic for 'Prayer is better than sleep,' a phrase added to the dawn adhan.
11. Sharia : Islamic law derived from the Quran and the Sunnah (traditions of the Prophet).

The change of the qibla [1] to the Kaaba [2] occurred in the second year of the Hijra [3].

By the tongue of the state ¹, rejoice in this lofty station. (The call to prayer is all good speech ... awaiting obedience to the One, the Subduer.) (Two concurred in their vision and agreed ... O son of Zayd, for you is the best, and O 'Umar.) The change of the qibla ² to the Ka'ba occurred in the second year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, prayed toward Jerusalem for a year and three months, and he loved to be turned toward the Ka'ba. The successful one is he who emigrates in seeking it and its Sunnah. So he would raise his head to the sky in his prayer, awaiting from his Lord, exalted is His majesty, the response to his prayer. He continued thus until Gabriel, peace be upon him, came to him and recited to him: "Turn your face toward the Sacred Mosque" ³. So he turned toward the Ka'ba, facing the waterspout ⁴, and with him turned, following his example, the people of the districts and the parties. When prayer was established facing the sacred Ka'ba, he went to Quba' ⁵, advanced the wall of its mosque and laid its foundation, and carried stones with his companions for its construction, pouring forth from its dazzling lights upon its courtyard. And there appeared for him in the heaven of mosques a piercing star ⁶, and he used to come to it...

1. lisan al-hal : Literally 'the tongue of the state/condition'; a Sufi term meaning the silent communication of one's spiritual state or the unspoken message conveyed by one's actions or circumstances.
2. qibla : The direction of prayer in Islam, originally toward Jerusalem, later changed to the Ka'ba in Mecca.
3. Qur'an 2:144 : The verse that commanded the change of qibla from Jerusalem to the Ka'ba.
4. al-mizab : The waterspout of the Ka'ba, a golden spout on the roof that directs rainwater off the structure; facing it is considered a sunna.
5. Quba' : A place near Medina where the Prophet built the first mosque in Islam, known as Masjid Quba'.
6. najman thaqiban : Literally 'a piercing star'; a metaphorical expression for a brilliant, luminous entity, here referring to the mosque's spiritual prominence.

The command of fasting, Zakat al-Fitr, Eid, and the sacrifice was in the second year of the Hijra [1].

Every Saturday, sometimes walking and sometimes riding, he would raise it and magnify its affair by saying: 'Whoever comes and prays two rak'ahs in it will have the reward of an 'Umrah ¹.' What a blessed place of worship! The leaves of its blessed tree do not fall nor wither. As for the mosque, Abu Ayyub and 'Urwah used to say: 'It is the one that was founded on piety ².' (How many a brilliant sign does the Chosen Prophet have... The mind is bewildered in its meaning.) (When the Creator saw his face turning [to the sky], He turned him towards a qiblah ³ that pleases him.) The command of fasting, Zakat al-Fitr ⁴, the 'Eid ⁵, and the sacrifice ⁶ occurred in the second year of the Hijrah ⁷. Fasting was made obligatory after eighteen months, and thus abstinence was established by the decree of Him who has ordained everything in due measure. Then the Prophet ﷺ commanded Zakat al-Fitr from the rich for the poor, and that it should be given on behalf of the free and the slave, the male and the female, the old and the young.

1. 'Umrah : A minor pilgrimage to Mecca, performed at any time of the year, as opposed to Hajj which has specific dates.
2. founded on piety : Reference to Quran 9:108, which describes the Mosque of Quba as being founded on piety from the first day.
3. qiblah : The direction of prayer for Muslims, initially towards Jerusalem, later changed to the Kaaba in Mecca.
4. Zakat al-Fitr : A mandatory charity given at the end of Ramadan, before the Eid prayer, to purify the fast and provide for the needy.
5. 'Eid : Islamic festival; here referring to 'Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan.
6. sacrifice : The ritual slaughter of an animal during 'Eid al-Adha, commemorating Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son.
7. Hijrah : The migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.

The story of Salman al-Farisi [1] is one of the most remarkable narratives in Islamic history. He was a Persian seeker of truth who journeyed from Zoroastrianism to Christianity and finally to Islam, meeting the Prophet Muhammad [2] in Medina. His quest for the true religion led him through various lands and scholars, until he recognized the signs of the final prophet. He became a close companion of the Prophet and is renowned for his wisdom and piety, particularly for his role in the Battle of the Trench [3] where he suggested digging a defensive ditch around Medina.

He was concerned with collecting its zakah ¹ and distributing it when he returned from his prayer, but he would order it before his morning departure to the place of imamate ². He would pray the two 'ids ³ before the sermon, without adhan ⁴ or iqama ⁵. He ordered the sacrifice ⁶ and would sacrifice every year, sacrificing two rams: one for his community and the other for himself and his noble family. (By the best of messengers, Ahmad ⁷, possessor of favors, upon us, the downpour and flood of blessing poured down.) (He strove for our victory and shot at our enemies, and for us on the day of the sacrifice ⁸ he sacrificed.) The story of Salman al-Farisi ⁹: Salman al-Farisi was from the people of Persia, not held back from Magianism ¹⁰ and fire worship by any barrier. He was observed with the eye of divine care and adorned with the necklaces of guidance. He traveled through the lands and served the bishops and monks. Then he sought the Hijaz ¹¹ on his journey when he learned of the nearness of the time of the bringer of good news and warner ¹². When he was in Wadi al-Qura ¹³, he was wronged and sold by some Jews, then transferred to Medina, going and coming in the bondage of servitude. When he heard of the emigration of the possessor of great character ¹⁴, he hastened to him and embraced Islam at his noble hand. Then he made a contract with his master for three hundred date-palms and...

1. zakah : Obligatory alms-giving, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
2. imamate : The position of leading prayer; here referring to the place where the imam leads.
3. 'ids : The two major Islamic festivals: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
4. adhan : The Islamic call to prayer.
5. iqama : The second call to prayer, given just before the prayer begins.
6. sacrifice : The ritual animal sacrifice performed during Eid al-Adha.
7. Ahmad : Another name of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'most praiseworthy'.
8. day of the sacrifice : The 10th of Dhul Hijjah, the day of Eid al-Adha.
9. Salman al-Farisi : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, originally from Persia.
10. Magianism : Zoroastrianism, the religion of ancient Persia.
11. Hijaz : The region in western Arabia containing Mecca and Medina.
12. bringer of good news and warner : The Prophet Muhammad, who brought glad tidings and warnings.
13. Wadi al-Qura : A valley in northwestern Arabia, near Medina.
14. possessor of great character : The Prophet Muhammad, known for his excellent character.

The story of Abdullah ibn Salam [1]

The amount reached forty uqiyas ¹. The Prophet (peace be upon him) helped him with what completed the amount and assisted him. He went out and planted the palm trees with his own hand, and not a single one of them died. Salman was freed and witnessed the Battle of the Trench as a free man. He continued to draw him close and bring him near until he counted him among the People of the House ² out of kindness and benevolence. (Salman, after his lowliness, rose to a station lofty in structure. And how could it not be, when the Chosen One ³ counted him among the People of his House, of great status?) The story of Abdullah ibn Salam: Abdullah ibn Salam was among the great rabbis and scholars, well-versed in what was found in the books of the Jews regarding reports. He knew the description of the Prophet (peace be upon him), his name, and his time, but he kept silent about it, even from his companions and peers. He continued to conceal his matter until the master of the Hijra ⁴ arrived in Medina. When he heard the news of him, he proclaimed the takbir ⁵, showed joy at his arrival, and rejoiced. He went out to him, submitting and surrendering, and did not listen to those among his people who disapproved of him. Then he spoke with the Jews about what they knew of his matter and what they found written with them of his description and the elevation of his mention. They denied him, rejected him, met him with enmity, and confronted him openly. So he turned away from both the great and the small among them and attained what he attained through the companionship of the Bringer of Glad Tidings and the Warner ⁶.

1. أوقية : A unit of weight, approximately 40 dirhams or about 128 grams.
2. أهل البيت : The People of the House, referring to the family of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. المصطفى : The Chosen One, a title for the Prophet Muhammad.
4. صاحب الهجرة : The master of the Hijra, referring to the Prophet Muhammad who migrated from Mecca to Medina.
5. كبر : He said 'Allahu Akbar' (God is Greatest), an expression of praise and joy.
6. البشير النذير : The Bringer of Glad Tidings and the Warner, titles for the Prophet Muhammad.

The story of Abu Qays al-Ansari [1]

By the sandal strap, O Ibn Salam, by what your hands have attained of Islam and honor, you have manifested from the description of the best of all people what was inscribed in the inner pages of the scriptures. And you did not heed the words of the Jews nor what they inclined to of falsehood and deviation. The Story of Abu Qays al-Ansari Abu Qays was skilled in his poetry, proclaiming the truth in his speech. He clung to Allah and held fast, and in the pre-Islamic period he became a monk ¹ and practiced asceticism ², abandoned idols, turned to obedience of the Judge ³, performed ritual purification ⁴ from major impurity ⁵, and withdrew even from close relatives. He wore woolen garments ⁶ and inclined to sincere repentance ⁷. He took a mosque in his house and occupied himself with his litanies ⁸ and remembrances ⁹, and persisted in the takbir ¹⁰ and tahlil ¹¹, saying, "I worship the Lord of Abraham and Ishmael." When the Prophet (peace be upon him) migrated, he went to him and embraced Islam at his noble hand, and his Islam was excellent. He is the one who said in the pre-Islamic period, in verses: "Glorify Allah, east of every morning, when its sun rises, and every crescent."

1. tarahhaba : To become a monk; refers to Christian monasticism or a similar ascetic practice.
2. tanasaka : To practice asceticism; devotion to religious worship and renunciation of worldly pleasures.
3. al-Dayyan : The Judge; one of the names of Allah, meaning the Reckoner or the Supreme Judge.
4. ightasala : To perform a full-body ritual purification (ghusl) required after major impurity.
5. janabah : Major ritual impurity requiring ghusl, such as after sexual intercourse or seminal emission.
6. al-musuh : Woolen garments; traditionally worn by ascetics and monks as a sign of humility and renunciation.
7. al-tawbah al-nasuh : Sincere repentance; a term from the Quran (66:8) meaning pure, genuine repentance that is not followed by sin.
8. awrad : Litanies; fixed sets of prayers or supplications recited regularly, often by Sufis.
9. adhkar : Remembrances; phrases or prayers recited to remember Allah, such as 'Subhanallah' or 'Alhamdulillah'.
10. takbir : The phrase 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is the Greatest).
11. tahlil : The phrase 'La ilaha illa Allah' (There is no god but Allah).

The People of the Suffah [1]

For Him are the birds, seeking increase and taking refuge ... in the nests of secure mountains. And for Him are the wild beasts in the desert, you see them ... in sand dunes and in the ruins of sands. O sons of wombs, do not sever them ... and join them, short from long. O sons of days, do not trust them ... and beware of their deceit and the deceit of nights. And unite your affair upon piety and righteousness ... and leave obscenity and take the lawful. The People of the Bench ¹ were people of weak condition, having no tribes, no homes, and no wealth. They used to take shelter in the mosque, sleep there, and dwell near those whom they would not wrong in their neighborhood, nor be wronged. And he, peace and blessings be upon him, cared for their affair and sought by every means to comfort them, invited them to his food, and commanded his companions to support each of them and honor them. They are those who turned away.

1. Ahl al-Ṣuffa : The People of the Bench: a group of poor and homeless Companions of the Prophet Muhammad who lived in the portico (ṣuffa) of the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, devoted to learning and worship.

The description of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace [1].

They were content with the bare minimum and satisfied with the coarse woolen cloak, and among them came [the verse]: "For the poor who are confined in the way of Allah, unable to travel through the land" ¹. It suffices them that Abu Dharr and Abu Hurayra were among them—may Allah envelop them with His vast mercy and be pleased with them. (For the people of the Suffa ² of the past, glory lies in the companionship of Ahmad, the generous warner. They were content with little in this world, and when they passed away, they came to a Great King.) Description of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace: (Description of his body, may Allah bless him and grant him peace: The seal of prophethood was between his shoulder blades, like a pigeon's egg, or like a button of a partridge, or a tuft of hair, or a mole. He had a large head, a broad forehead, arched eyebrows, a prominent bridge of the nose, wavy hair, a downcast gaze, a luminous neck, a fragrant scent, a high-bridged nose, large black eyes with long lashes, spaced teeth, and a pleasant mouth. He was taller than a medium-height man but shorter than a tall, slender one. He had a thick beard, smooth cheeks, large joints, a wide distance between the shoulders, a well-proportioned build, a firm body, a broad chest, and a radiant complexion. His face shone like the full moon on the night of the full moon. His limbs were well-formed, his forearms were long, and when he walked, it was as if he was descending from a slope. His palms were spacious.)

1. للْفُقَرَاء الَّذين أحْصرُوا فِي سَبِيل الله لَا يَسْتَطِيعُونَ ضربا فِي الأَرْض : Quran 2:273, referring to the poor who are prevented from traveling for trade due to their devotion to jihad or seeking knowledge.
2. أهل الصّفة : Ahl al-Suffa: the Companions who lived in the portico (suffa) of the Prophet's mosque in Medina, devoted to learning and worship.

His moral attributes, manners, and demeanor, peace be upon him.

He had long forearms, palms with thick fingers, and flat feet ¹. (His moral qualities, manners, and character, peace and blessings be upon him) He was of good character, gentle in demeanor, without a doorkeeper or guard. He would greet whomever he met with salām ², and his smile would reveal teeth like hailstones. He would alternate between direct and indirect glances, and between laughter and smiling. He would speak in comprehensive words ³ when uttering and speaking. He would commend what is good and strengthen it, and condemn what is evil and weaken it. He would point with his palm when gesturing, and when amazed, he would turn it over. He did not care for the world nor was he stingy with it toward those who sought it. When happy, he would lower his gaze; when angry, he would turn away and bend his side. He was often silent, abundant in remembrance ⁴, continuously sorrowful, and constantly thoughtful. He would remain silent out of forbearance and reflection, and would keep quiet out of caution and contemplation. He would not withhold an answer from a questioner, nor would he speak except about what he hoped for reward. He was not harsh, nor coarse, nor clamorous in the markets, nor foul-mouthed, nor given to jesting, nor fault-finding. He would look after his companions and prefer them with his goodness. He would not fall short of the truth nor exceed it to something else. He would meet those who settled in the abode of this world with reproach, and would sit wherever the gathering of people ended. He would not get angry for himself nor seek revenge for himself. He would regard a small favor as great and would consider it abundant. He would honor the noble of every people and appoint them over them. He would fulfill people's needs and show affection toward them. He would warn them, give them glad tidings, and unite them, without causing them to flee. His gathering was a gathering of modesty, forbearance, patience, and trustworthiness. Voices were not raised therein, sanctities were not violated, nor were disputes about hadith ⁵ engaged in, nor were covenants broken. When he spoke, his listeners would lower their heads as if birds were perched on them. When he was silent, they would speak about what brought them benefit and goodness. He would exert his utmost in advising his community, and people were equal before him in truth. He would not turn away from one in need nor deviate. He would bear patiently with whoever sat with him or opposed him until the other would depart. He would not revile anyone, nor reproach anyone, nor seek to expose anyone's faults. He would bear with the stranger's harshness in speech and questioning. Whoever came to him as a delegate, he would overwhelm him with generosity. Whoever asked him for something, he would not send him away except with it or with a kind word. He would tighten a stone against his belly due to hunger, and would command restraint of the tongue from idle talk and obscenity. He would spend the night without a lamp, and would begin the evening and morning in need of food. Three days would pass without any food entering his mouth, and months would pass without him being satisfied with barley bread. Had he wished, Allah would have caused mountains of rubies and pearls to accompany him. Months would pass by his family without a fire being seen in their houses; they lived only on the two black things: water and dates. Women and perfume were made beloved to him, and the delight of his eyes was placed in prayer. He continued thus until he joined Him who is God in heaven and God on earth. (Descriptions of the best of creation, there is no equal to his equal... the stars of his description cannot be enumerated.)

1. masīḥ al-qadamayn : Flat-footed; having smooth soles without a high arch.
2. salām : The Islamic greeting of peace, 'as-salāmu ʿalaykum'.
3. jawāmiʿ al-kalim : Comprehensive speech; concise yet profound expressions.
4. dhikr : Remembrance of Allah, often through specific phrases or prayers.
5. ḥadīth : A report of the sayings, actions, or approvals of the Prophet Muhammad.

The hair of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him [1].

His stature was moderate, upon it majesty... and his eye was wide and dark, and his face was radiant. He surpassed the noble prophets in his character... and in his creation, but he does not boast. Favor in times of hardship is hoped from him... and justice and benevolence are reported from him. To him belong the exalted stations ¹, their reward is great... and to him belong the means ², the banner ³, and the Kawthar ⁴. How generous he is, open-handed, ever giving... from his palms the dew of noble traits drips. Unique in the comprehensive words ⁵ from which... the fragrance of guidance spreads. May Allah bless him as long as the east wind blows... and as the radiant dawn erases the book of night. The hair of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace: He had hair that did not pass his ears, and in another wording: it reached or touched his shoulders. He had hair above the wafra ⁶ and below the jumma ⁷. The lobe of his ear was covered by the lamma ⁸. He entered Mecca with four ghada'ir ⁹. Umm Hani' said: I saw four braids on his head.

1. maqamat : Stations or spiritual ranks in Sufism, referring to the Prophet's elevated status.
2. al-wasila : The means of nearness to Allah, a special rank in Paradise granted to the Prophet.
3. al-liwa' : The banner of praise, a standard held by the Prophet on the Day of Resurrection.
4. al-Kawthar : A river in Paradise given to the Prophet, also the name of a Quranic chapter.
5. jawami' al-kalim : Comprehensive speech, a gift to the Prophet enabling concise expression of profound meanings.
6. wafra : Hair that reaches the earlobes.
7. jumma : Hair that reaches the shoulders.
8. lamma : Hair that reaches the earlobes or slightly below.
9. ghada'ir : Braids or locks of hair.

The siwak [1] of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and his cupping [2].

He used to part his hair and commanded to part it. What hair it was! It put to shame, by the light of its parting, the flash of lightning. And what concern does God Almighty have with gray hair? Nor is the essence of his noble self tainted by deficiency or defect. On his head and beard there were only a few hairs; when he oiled them, the oil concealed their whiteness. He forbade plucking out gray hairs and said, 'It is light on the Day of Resurrection.' Gray hair in Islam raises the rank of its possessor and removes his sins. He said in his hadith that polishes the rust from hearts, 'The chapters Hud and its sisters have made me gray, and what they did to the nations before me.' It is reported that he dyed his hair with henna and katam ¹, and he commanded to change gray hair in opposition to the Jews, Christians, and Persians. His companions used to dye with henna, katam, and saffron. He forbade dyeing with black and mentioned it in a context of blame. 'What blemishes the gray hair of the best of creation? They are only stars beneath the clouds in a valley.' 'So be eager, when the blemish of gray hair comes to you, not to dye its whiteness with black.' His tooth-stick and cupping The Prophet, peace be upon him, was very fond of the tooth-stick ². It would be placed for him to use when he rose at night, and whenever he woke up from sleep, whether at night or day, he would use the tooth-stick before his ablution for prayer.

1. katam : A plant (Buxus dioica) used for dyeing hair, producing a reddish-black color.
2. siwak : A teeth-cleaning twig made from the Salvadora persica tree, used for oral hygiene and recommended in Islamic tradition.

The pulpit of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and his oratory.

He had a mirror, an ivory comb, a kohl container, scissors, a glass cup, a cup called al-Rayyan, a cup with a silver rim, a stone mortar, a brass basin, and a dyeing vessel. He would apply kohl with antimony before sleep, three times in each eye; in another wording, he would apply kohl in his right eye three times and in his left eye twice. He would trim his mustache and keep it short, making manifest the knowledge of his flourishing Sunnah and not concealing it. The hadith of his cupping was narrated by many people. Gabriel commanded him to use al-Mughitha ¹, which is cupping on the head. He was cupped on the two jugular veins twice and on the upper back once, and he said: "The best of what you treat yourselves with is cupping." Blessed is he who accepts its benefits. (He adhered to the Sunnah of the Messenger and acted upon it, and by following his traces, you will be a follower.) (Be patient with the condition of cupping and apply kohl, and hasten to the siwak ² lest you be preceded.) The Prophet's pulpit and his sermons. He used to deliver the Friday sermon standing by a palm trunk. It became difficult for him to continue standing during his sermon always, so a pulpit was made for him from tamarisk wood from al-Ghaba ³ after consulting the people of opinion among the Companions. It was made by the slave of al-Abbas, with two steps and a seat. Its news spread among the people, both trustworthy and untrustworthy. How could it not, when it is at a stream from the streams of Paradise, and at its summit the verses of the Book are recited and the reports of the Sunnah are preserved? Its legs are placed upon the Basin, and around it is a prophetic garden that surpasses any garden in resemblance. The angels incline towards it, and under its shade the righteous take shelter. Whoever swears falsely upon it will take his seat in the Fire. When he sat at the pulpit, the trunk to which he used to stand missed him and moaned like a pregnant she-camel, and did not calm down until he came to it and placed his hand upon it. When he delivered a sermon, he would lean on a staff and point with his fingers, by whose side the pebbles glorified [Allah]. He had a Yemeni cloak and a loincloth woven in Oman, which he would wear only on Friday and the two Eids, then fold them away. (The trunk yearned for the Chosen Prophet, and in its yearning is a clear proof.)

1. al-Mughitha : A type of cupping performed on the head, specifically on the crown, believed to be beneficial for certain ailments.
2. siwak : A teeth-cleaning twig made from the Salvadora persica tree, used for oral hygiene and recommended in Islamic tradition.
3. al-Ghaba : A forested area near Medina where the tamarisk wood for the Prophet's pulpit was sourced.

The Prophet's prayer over the deceased [1]

By Allah, his pulpit around which ... for the lush garden of Paradise is a blooming meadow. The Prophet's prayer over the deceased After his arrival in Medina and the completion of his blessed emigration, the Muslims used to inform him when one of them was present and approaching death. He would come to the dying person, ask forgiveness for him, and sit with him until, when he passed away, he would either leave or remain until they placed him in his grave. Sometimes the distance was long, and they feared that hardship might befall him, so they would inform him of the deceased after his death. He would come, pray over him, ask forgiveness for his sins, and then leave after the prayer or stay until the deceased was buried in the open land. Then, after that, they would carry the deceased to him, and he would attend his funeral and pray over him at his house. And the matter settled upon these stages, so the place where he used to pray was called the place of funerals. (Blessed is he over whom the Chosen One prayed, the best of creation, among his righteous companions.)

The garments of the Prophet, peace be upon him [1].

He indeed dwelt in an exalted garden ¹ ... and indeed he was saved from the evil of the fire's heat. The Clothing of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace He had a Najrani cloak ² with a thick border, a white cap ³, low-hanging caps ⁴, a black turban ⁵ with which he ascended the pulpit, and he wore it upon entering Mecca on the day of the Great Conquest ⁶. He had a cotton shirt short in length and sleeves, a woolen cloak ⁷, a Syrian cloak ⁸ with thick sleeves, a striped cloak ⁹ with two borders, a Hadrami wrap ¹⁰, a loincloth ¹¹ woven in Oman, and a red garment ¹² which he wore on Fridays and the two Eids. He often wore a face-veil ¹³ and wore socks ¹⁴ and sandals. When he wore a turban, he let its end hang between his shoulders and let it down. When he performed ablution or prostrated, he lifted it from his forehead and moved it aside. He dyed his clothes with saffron and appeared to the people wearing two green cloaks. He commanded wearing white clothes and strongly urged against wearing silk. His mattress was made of leather stuffed with palm fiber, and he slept on a woolen blanket ¹⁵ neither soft nor thick. He had a dyed wrap ¹⁶ and prayed on a mat and tanned sheepskin. He would raise his loincloth from behind and let it down in front. He would bring out his hand for ablution from under his cloak and throw it over his shoulders. He would wrap himself in a single garment and stand for prayer, leading the people in a cloak ¹⁷ crossing its ends and tying them at the back of his neck. He commanded that when a person from his community wears a new garment, he should say: "Praise be to God who has clothed me with what covers my private parts and with which I adorn myself in my life." "Muhammad wore coarse cloaks ... the purest of creation, the best of non-Arabs and Arabs." "He is the one who, if he wished, God would cause to flow in his dwellings, willingly, a river of gold."

1. janna marfūʿa : An exalted garden, referring to a high station in Paradise.
2. burd Najrānī : A cloak from Najran, a region in Yemen, known for its fine fabric.
3. kumma bayḍāʾ : A white cap, often worn under the turban.
4. qalānis lāṭiyya : Low-hanging caps, a type of headgear that hangs down.
5. ʿimāma sawdāʾ : A black turban, a headwrap worn by men.
6. al-fatḥ al-akbar : The Great Conquest, referring to the conquest of Mecca.
7. jubba min al-ṣūf : A woolen cloak, a long outer garment.
8. jubba shāmiyya : A Syrian cloak, a garment from the Levant region.
9. burd min ḥibara : A striped cloak, a type of Yemeni garment with stripes.
10. ridāʾ ḥaḍramī : A wrap from Hadramawt, a region in Yemen.
11. izār : A loincloth or waist-wrapper, a lower garment.
12. ḥulla ḥamrāʾ : A red garment, a two-piece suit or outfit.
13. qināʿ : A face-veil or mask, covering the lower part of the face.
14. jarmūqān : Socks or foot coverings, often made of leather.
15. mirṭ min ṣūf : A woolen blanket or wrap.
16. mulḥafa maṣbūgha : A dyed wrap, a large piece of cloth used as a cover.
17. shamla : A cloak or wrap, a garment that covers the body.

The weapon of the Prophet, peace be upon him [1]

The weapons of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace ¹. He had a sword called al-Ma’thur ², and a sword known as al-‘Adb ³ among the Arabs, and a sword called Dhu al-Fiqar ⁴ which he carried in war and with which he witnessed the positions of thrusting and striking, and a sword named Samhamah ⁵ that terrifies hearts, and a sword Qal‘i ⁶, and al-Battar ⁷, and al-Hatf ⁸, and al-Rasub ⁹, and two swords known as al-Mikhdham ¹⁰ and al-Qadib ¹¹. These are his swords that received the greatest share of his companionship. He had coats of mail that dragged on the clouds with excess of tails, and they were Dhat al-Wishah ¹², Dhat al-Hawashi ¹³, Dhat al-Fudul ¹⁴, and Fiddah ¹⁵, and al-Sughdiyyah ¹⁶, the coat of mail of David, peace be upon him, and al-Batra’ ¹⁷, and al-Kharnaq ¹⁸. None of them allowed an arrow to pass through. He had bows: al-Katum ¹⁹, al-Zawra’ ²⁰, al-Rawha’ ²¹, al-Bayda’ ²², and al-Safra’ ²³. He had a quiver called al-Kafur ²⁴, and arrows called al-Muttasilah ²⁵, and a belt made of tanned leather. He had two shields: one known as al-Zaluq ²⁶, and another shield that boasted over all other shields and excelled. He had two helmets ²⁷ and five spears, two of which were short spears: one of them was al-‘Anazah ²⁸, which outshone the light of morning. He had a black banner called al-‘Uqab ²⁹, and white flags of high status, and a staff ³⁰, and a rod ³¹, and a walking stick called al-‘Arjun ³², and a tent known as al-Kann ³³, which contains the hidden secret. (With Muhammad, the best of creation, one suffices on the day of battle when the battlefield darkens.) (He is the most steadfast of the brave at the meeting point, and the greatest of those who donned weapons and the most noble.) (How many armies of enemies, vast and formidable, did he break, which without him would not be overcome?) (By God, a coat of mail that shone in it, and a helmet, and an Indian sword in his hand, and a spear.)

1. صلى الله عليه وسلم : Blessings and peace be upon him, a formula of respect used after mentioning the Prophet Muhammad.
2. المأثور : Al-Ma’thur: a sword of the Prophet, meaning 'the inherited' or 'the famous'.
3. العضب : Al-‘Adb: a sword name, meaning 'the sharp' or 'the cutting'.
4. ذو الفقار : Dhu al-Fiqar: a famous sword of the Prophet, with a notched blade, meaning 'the possessor of vertebrae'.
5. صمصامة : Samhamah: a sword name, meaning 'the unyielding' or 'the hard'.
6. قلعي : Qal‘i: a sword name, possibly derived from a place or meaning 'the extractor'.
7. البتار : Al-Battar: a sword name, meaning 'the cutter' or 'the sharp'.
8. الحتف : Al-Hatf: a sword name, meaning 'death' or 'destruction'.
9. الرسوب : Al-Rasub: a sword name, meaning 'the penetrating' or 'the sinking'.
10. المخذم : Al-Mikhdham: a sword name, meaning 'the severing' or 'the cutting'.
11. القضيب : Al-Qadib: a sword name, meaning 'the rod' or 'the branch'.
12. ذات الوشاح : Dhat al-Wishah: a coat of mail name, meaning 'the one with the sash'.
13. ذات الحواشي : Dhat al-Hawashi: a coat of mail name, meaning 'the one with the borders'.
14. ذات الفضول : Dhat al-Fudul: a coat of mail name, meaning 'the one with the excess' (long tails).
15. فضة : Fiddah: a coat of mail name, meaning 'silver'.
16. السغدية : Al-Sughdiyyah: a coat of mail name, possibly from Sogdia (region in Central Asia).
17. البتراء : Al-Batra’: a coat of mail name, meaning 'the cut off' or 'the incomplete'.
18. الخرنق : Al-Kharnaq: a coat of mail name, meaning 'the soft' or 'the delicate'.
19. الكتوم : Al-Katum: a bow name, meaning 'the silent' or 'the hidden'.
20. الزوراء : Al-Zawra’: a bow name, meaning 'the crooked' or 'the bent'.
21. الروحاء : Al-Rawha’: a bow name, meaning 'the spacious' or 'the wide'.
22. البيضاء : Al-Bayda’: a bow name, meaning 'the white'.
23. الصفراء : Al-Safra’: a bow name, meaning 'the yellow'.
24. الكافور : Al-Kafur: a quiver name, meaning 'camphor'.
25. المتصلة : Al-Muttasilah: arrows name, meaning 'the connected' or 'the continuous'.
26. الزلوق : Al-Zaluq: a shield name, meaning 'the slippery' or 'the smooth'.
27. مغفران : Two helmets; 'mighfar' is a helmet that protects the head and face.
28. العنزة : Al-‘Anazah: a short spear or staff, used as a marker or weapon.
29. العقاب : Al-‘Uqab: the black banner of the Prophet, meaning 'the eagle'.
30. محجن : A staff with a curved end, used for herding or as a walking stick.
31. قضيب : A rod or stick, often used as a scepter or for support.
32. العرجون : Al-‘Arjun: a walking stick, meaning 'the curved' or 'the bent'.
33. الكن : Al-Kann: a tent or shelter, meaning 'the covering' or 'the concealment'.

The Seal of the Prophet, peace be upon him [1]

The Seal of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. A seal was made for him of gold, so he took it and wore it on his hand for a time. Then he removed it, cast it away, and said, "By God, I will never wear it again." He forbade its use, and he set no time limit for the prohibition. Then he took a seal entirely of silver, and engraved upon it his name, whose leaves of honor have never withered. He used to seal with it letters sent from his side, and he forbade anyone to engrave a seal in its form and description. It remained in his hand, then in the hand of Abu Bakr, then in the hand of 'Umar, and from the hand of 'Uthman it fell into the well of Aris ¹. No news of it appeared after it was sought for three days, and the year was named after that well because of it. He also had a silver seal twisted around iron, inscribed with the name of God and his own name. He took it from Khalid ibn Sa'id ², wore it on his hand for a time, then the caliphs after him inherited it. He would sometimes wear the signet ring on his right hand and sometimes on his left, and he would place the bezel of the seal toward the palm of his hand, which had removed so much hardship. (O seekers of the garden of contentment, seek refuge with Him upon whom our Lord sent blessings and peace, And you, followers of his Sunna, wear signet rings, for the Chosen One wore a seal.)

1. Aris : A well in Medina, near the Quba Mosque, associated with the loss of the Prophet's seal during the caliphate of 'Uthman.
2. Khalid ibn Sa'id : A companion of the Prophet, known for his early conversion and service as a scribe.

The sandal of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him [1]

The sandals of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace. He walked in sandals that were munaqqabatayn ¹ and prayed in sandals that were makhsūfatayn ². He had sandals that were muʿaqqaba ³, musallana ⁴, and mukhaṣṣara ⁵. He wore sandals of the sibtiyya ⁶ type, as reported by some Companions and mentioned. He loved to begin with the right in putting on sandals, in purification, in combing his hair, and in all his affairs. He wore two black khuffs ⁷ that the Negus had gifted him. He would put on sandals while standing and while sitting, may God bless him and grant him peace. (Wear the khuff and sandals in emulation ... of the unlettered Prophet, the best of mankind) (And it is certain that what the follower ⁸ does ... is followed, winning the abode of peace)

1. munaqqabatayn : Sandals with two straps or thongs, possibly meaning they had a covering over the top of the foot.
2. makhsūfatayn : Sandals that were patched or mended, possibly with a strap between the toes.
3. muʿaqqaba : Sandals with a heel strap or a heel covering.
4. musallana : Sandals with a tongue or a front strap.
5. mukhaṣṣara : Sandals that are narrow or tapered, possibly with a pointed toe.
6. sibtiyya : A type of sandal made from tanned leather, often smooth and soft.
7. khuffs : Leather socks or boots worn over the feet, often used for wiping during ablution.
8. al-muqaffā : The follower, referring to the one who follows the Prophet's example.

The wives of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace [1]

The wives of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace ¹: [Khadijah bint Khuwaylid] He married Khadijah bint Khuwaylid al-Asadiyya ² in the year twenty-five of the Elephant ³; the arrangement of her marriage contract was carried out by the most noble and eminent ⁴. The amount of her dowry was five hundred dirhams. She followed with him a path whose eyes ⁵ were filled with goodness, and she gave birth to all his children except Ibrahim ⁶, for he was from Mariyah ⁷. She was the first to believe in him, and she prayed with him. He did not marry anyone else until her life passed and she passed away. She died in Mecca shortly before the Hijra ⁸ and ascended to a rank whose status God raised through faith. [Sawdah bint Zam'ah] Then he married Sawdah bint Zam'ah al-'Amiriyya ⁹ in the tenth year of the Prophethood ¹⁰. She was the first woman he married in Islam, and he ordered that the arrangement of her marriage contract be made public and announced. Her dowry was four hundred dirhams of pure coin ¹¹. She remained with him until the arrow of separation ¹² was shot at her.

1. صلى الله عليه وسلم : A formula of blessing and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'may God bless him and grant him peace'.
2. خديجة بنت خويلد الأسدية : Khadijah bint Khuwaylid al-Asadiyya: The first wife of the Prophet Muhammad, from the tribe of Asad.
3. عام الفيل : The Year of the Elephant: The year of the Prophet's birth, traditionally dated to 570 CE, when Abraha's army with elephants attacked Mecca.
4. من أنجد وأتهم : A phrase meaning 'from the most noble and eminent', referring to the high status of those who arranged the marriage.
5. عيونها : Literally 'her eyes', but here metaphorically meaning 'the path' or 'way' she followed.
6. إبراهيم : Ibrahim: The son of the Prophet Muhammad from Mariyah al-Qibtiyya, who died in infancy.
7. مارية : Mariyah al-Qibtiyya: A Coptic slave girl given to the Prophet by the ruler of Egypt, who became his concubine and mother of Ibrahim.
8. الهجرة : The Hijra: The migration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
9. سودة بنت زمعة العامرية : Sawdah bint Zam'ah al-'Amiriyya: The second wife of the Prophet Muhammad, from the tribe of 'Amir.
10. النبوة : The Prophethood: The period of Muhammad's prophetic mission, beginning with the first revelation in 610 CE.
11. العين : Literally 'the eye', but here meaning 'pure coin' or 'specie', i.e., gold or silver currency.
12. سهم البين : The arrow of separation: A metaphor for divorce or death that separates spouses.

Aisha bint Abi Bakr al-Siddiq [1]

She died in Medina in the last days of 'Umar's caliphate and entered into the mercy of Him who subjected the night and day, the sun and the moon. [A'isha bint Abi Bakr al-Siddiq] Then he married A'isha bint Abi Bakr al-Siddiq in the tenth year of prophethood; he consummated the marriage after the Hijra and plucked from her a flower—and what a flower! May God increase her goodness through him. He married no other virgin besides her. She continued in his companionship, rejoicing in what time had granted her, until he was taken from her when she was eighteen years old. Then she died during the governorship of Marwan in Medina, after having adorned ears with precious jewels from her words. [Hafsa bint 'Umar] Then he married Hafsa bint 'Umar ibn al-Khattab in the third year of the Hijra. She was known for frequent fasting and renowned for standing in prayer in the depths of darkness. She was his companion deserving of veneration and exaltation, and his wife in Paradise—thus did Gabriel inform him from God.

Zaynab bint Khuzayma

She remained under the shade of his wing, illuminated by the lights of his lamp, until the sun of his subtle essence set, then she died in the year forty-five in the noble city. [Zaynab bint Khuzayma] Then he married Zaynab bint Khuzayma al-Qaysiyya in the year three of the Hijra. He proposed to her, and she left the matter to him, so he set her dowry at five hundred dirhams. She was called Umm al-Masakin ¹ due to her tenderness towards them, her compassion for them, and her kindness to them. She remained in his companionship for eight months, then by his blessing she moved to gardens and rivers. He prayed over her and buried her in al-Baqi' ². By my life, she obtained through his supplication the protective Paradise and the impenetrable veil. [Umm Salama] Then he married Umm Salama Hind bint Hudhayfa al-Makhzumiyya in the year four of the Hijra. He consummated the marriage with her in that same year and included her among the ranks of the wayfarers under his unfurled banners, and moved her to the house of Zaynab after it was emptied of her company. She prepared food for him.

1. Umm al-Masakin : Mother of the Poor, a title given to Zaynab bint Khuzayma for her charity and compassion towards the needy.
2. al-Baqi' : The cemetery in Medina where many companions and family members of the Prophet Muhammad are buried.

Zaynab bint Jahsh [1]

From barley and animal fat with her own hand on her wedding night, and her death occurred during the caliphate of Yazid ibn Mu'awiyah after she had narrated from him what quenches the thirst of the listener and the narrator. [Zaynab bint Jahsh] Then he married Zaynab bint Jahsh in the fourth year of the Hijrah, whom Allah Almighty gave to him in marriage, and He illuminated her countenance with His gaze, and revealed concerning her the verse of the Hijab ¹, and let down upon her the garments of modesty. That suffices her as honor, and her lineage suffices her. She died in Taybah ² after the departure of his brilliance, and she was the first of his wives to join him. [Juwayriyah bint al-Harith] Then he married Juwayriyah bint al-Harith al-Azdiyyah in the fifth year of the Hijrah. He took her captive on the day of al-Muraysi' ³ in the fifth year, and he bestowed upon her and protected her like the sun's protection from touch. Her name was Barrah, so he changed it and extended over her the shade of kindness and its length. She died during the caliphate of Marwan in Yathrib ⁴ and was carried to the abode of mercy by the permission of the Lord of the East and the West.

1. Hijab : The verse of the Hijab refers to Qur'an 33:53, which commanded the wives of the Prophet to be veiled and spoken to from behind a curtain.
2. Taybah : Taybah is another name for Medina, the city of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. al-Muraysi' : Al-Muraysi' is a location where a battle took place in the fifth year of the Hijrah, also known as the expedition of Banu Mustaliq.
4. Yathrib : Yathrib is the ancient name of Medina before the advent of Islam.

Rayḥāna bint Zayd [1]

Then he married Rayḥāna bint Zayd in the year six of the Hijra. She was a beautiful, comely woman, without peer among the Banū al-Naḍīr, noble. She was taken captive and then raised up, and during the captivity on the day of the Banū Qurayẓa she fell. He gave her the choice between Islam and her religion, and she chose that which would bring her near to her Restorer and Helper. So he gave her a dowry of five hundred dirhams and made her seclusion ¹ clear by the striking of the veil upon her, her ambiguous affair. She died in Medina after the Farewell Pilgrimage and was afflicted with separation after union. [Umm Ḥabība] Then he married Umm Ḥabība Ramla bint Abī Sufyān in the year seven of the Hijra. Khālid ibn Saʿīd married her to him while she was in the land of Abyssinia, in a distant place. The Negus ² gave her a dowry on his behalf of four hundred dinars and sent her to him equipped as he loved and chose. She died during the caliphate of her brother Muʿāwiya and passed away, may God, exalted is He, have mercy on her and protect her.

1. ḥijāb : The veil or seclusion of the Prophet's wives, indicating their status as Mothers of the Believers.
2. al-Najāshī : The title of the Christian king of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) at the time, who had given refuge to Muslim emigrants.

Safiyyah bint Huyayy [1]

[Safiyya bint Huyayy] Then he married Safiyya bint Huyayy al-Haruniyya in the year seven of the Hijra ¹. He took her for himself as a captive ² in the expedition of Khaybar and made her manumission her dowry, as reported by a reliable source in his scroll. She was a young, beautiful, intelligent, and noble woman among her people. She died in the year fifty-five in Medina, leaving behind land and goods of precious value. [Maymuna bint al-Harith] Then he married Maymuna bint al-Harith al-‘Amiriyya in the year seven of the Hijra. Her uncle al-‘Abbas undertook the arrangement of her marriage contract, and the star of her fortune shone brightly like a measure ³. She continued to drink from his abundant sea until her radiant full moon set against her will.

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. captive : Safiyya was taken as a captive after the Battle of Khaybar; the Prophet married her and her manumission served as her dowry.
3. measure : Likely a reference to a measuring tool or standard, symbolizing brightness or perfection.

The children of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, [1]

She died in Saraf ¹, near the Sacred Land ², and God is the Eternal, the Everlasting through the passage of nights and days. (O mothers of the believers in their Lord ... blessed are you for the companionship of the Chosen One ³) (God has specially honored you with a rank ... whose like none has, and with exalted status) (You have attained the Guide, the Bringer of Glad Tidings, Muhammad ... the best of creation and the master of the pious) (From me, upon you be the approved peace ... as long as the ringdove cooes at dawn) The Children of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: Born to him was al-Qasim ⁴, known by the fragrant scent, after whom he was named and by whom he sought refuge through God's Most Beautiful Names. He died in Mecca as a child, preceding [his father] to join bliss and a great kingdom. Then Zaynab ⁵, the mother of 'Ali and Umama ⁶, who walked in the garments of beauty and comeliness, children of Abu al-'As ibn al-Rabi' ⁷, who attained this lofty station. She died after the Hijra ⁸ in the year eight ⁹, and went with the believers to the Abode of Security ¹⁰. Then Ruqayya ¹¹, whose station is high as Saturn, mother of 'Abdullah ibn 'Uthman ibn 'Affan ¹². She died in the year two of the Hijra ¹³, and alighted with Him who rewards the obedient and multiplies his recompense. Then Fatima ¹⁴, mother of al-Hasan and al-Husayn ¹⁵, the two Imams, the two masters, the two blessed ones, the two martyrs, sons of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib ¹⁶, the guiding rain and the overwhelming lion. She died three months after her father ¹⁷, and moved to the pleasure of the Mighty, the Forgiving. Then Umm Kulthum ¹⁸, of known honor and unparalleled peer, wife of 'Uthman ¹⁹, possessor of the two lights, who took refuge with her and her sister Ruqayya on two peaks. She died after the Hijra in the year nine ²⁰, and journeyed to the abode of joy and exaltation. Then 'Abdullah ²¹, also called al-Tayyib ²² and al-Tahir ²³, born after the mission of his father, the shining star. He died as a child in Mecca after his brother al-Qasim, and his flourishing branch and blooming flower quickly withered. Then Ibrahim ²⁴, the one with a wet nurse in Paradise, and son of the master of the two weighty ones ²⁵, humans and jinn. He died in the year ten of the Hijra ²⁶ as a child, and was buried in al-Baqi' ²⁷ after the one who prayed over him prayed with the angels and the prophets in the highest heaven.

1. Saraf : A place near Mecca, about six miles from the city.
2. al-Balad al-Haram : The Sacred Land, i.e., Mecca and its surroundings.
3. al-Mukhtar : The Chosen One, a title of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. al-Qasim : The eldest son of the Prophet Muhammad, who died in infancy.
5. Zaynab : The eldest daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, wife of Abu al-'As ibn al-Rabi'.
6. Umama : Daughter of Zaynab and Abu al-'As, granddaughter of the Prophet.
7. Abu al-'As ibn al-Rabi' : Husband of Zaynab, a Companion of the Prophet.
8. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.
9. year eight : 8 AH (629-630 CE).
10. Dar al-Aman : Abode of Security, i.e., Paradise.
11. Ruqayya : Daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, wife of 'Uthman ibn 'Affan.
12. 'Abdullah ibn 'Uthman ibn 'Affan : Son of Ruqayya and 'Uthman, died in childhood.
13. year two of the Hijra : 2 AH (623-624 CE).
14. Fatima : The youngest daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, wife of 'Ali ibn Abi Talib.
15. al-Hasan and al-Husayn : Sons of Fatima and 'Ali, grandsons of the Prophet, revered as Imams by Shia Muslims.
16. 'Ali ibn Abi Talib : Cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet, fourth Caliph, and first Imam for Shia Muslims.
17. three months after her father : Fatima died in 11 AH (632 CE), about six months after the Prophet's death, though some sources say three months.
18. Umm Kulthum : Daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, married to 'Uthman after Ruqayya's death.
19. 'Uthman : 'Uthman ibn 'Affan, third Caliph, known as Dhul-Nurayn (Possessor of the Two Lights) for marrying two daughters of the Prophet.
20. year nine : 9 AH (630-631 CE).
21. 'Abdullah : Son of the Prophet Muhammad and Khadija, died in infancy.
22. al-Tayyib : The Good, a name for 'Abdullah.
23. al-Tahir : The Pure, a name for 'Abdullah.
24. Ibrahim : Son of the Prophet Muhammad and Maria al-Qibtiyya, died in infancy.
25. al-Thaqalayn : The two weighty things, i.e., humans and jinn, or the Quran and the Prophet's family.
26. year ten of the Hijra : 10 AH (631-632 CE).
27. al-Baqi' : The cemetery in Medina where many Companions and family members of the Prophet are buried.

The Book of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace [1]

And about Zaynab, Abu al-‘As ibn al-Rabi‘ said: (I remembered Zaynab when they passed by Iram... and I said, 'May the one dwelling in the sanctuary be watered.') (The daughter of the Trustworthy ¹, may God reward her with goodness... and every husband will be praised for what he has learned.) The letter of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, and ‘Umar, the one who inhabited the abode of verification ², and ‘Uthman, possessor of the two radiant lights ³, and ‘Ali, father of the two pure imams ⁴, and Khalid, Iban, and Sa‘id, sons of al-‘As, and ‘Amir ibn Fuhayra, the raiser of the banner of loyalty and sincerity, and ‘Abdullah ibn al-Arqam, and Hanzala ibn al-Rabi‘, and Ubayy ibn Ka‘b, the refuge of the Book of God, To a fortified fortress, and Mu‘awiya ibn Abi Sufyan, and al-Mughira ibn Shu‘ba, the conqueror of Maysan, and Muhammad ibn Maslama, the valiant hero, and Zayd ibn Thabit, and al-Zubayr ibn al-‘Awwam, and Thabit ibn Qays, and Shurahbil, and al-‘Ala’ ibn al-Hadrami, the brave and noble, and ‘Amr ibn al-‘As, and ‘Abdullah ibn Rawaha, and Khalid ibn al-Walid, described with valor and generosity, and ‘Abdullah ibn Zayd, and Juhaym, the munificent, and the grandson of Ubayy ibn Salul, and Mu‘ayqib, the trustee of the treasury.

1. al-Amin : The Trustworthy; a title of the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace.
2. manzil al-tahqiq : The abode of verification; a Sufi term referring to a station of spiritual realization and certainty.
3. dhu al-nurayn al-bahirayn : Possessor of the two radiant lights; a title of ‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan, referring to his marriage to two daughters of the Prophet.
4. al-imamayn al-tahirayn : The two pure imams; referring to al-Hasan and al-Husayn, the grandsons of the Prophet.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent ʿAmr ibn Umayya al-Ḍamrī as a messenger [1].

Say to the noble scribes ¹: rejoice... in the companionship of the guide ², Abu al-Tahir ³. Who among you has such fortune and rank... as the scribes of the revelation of the Almighty King ⁴? The messengers of the Prophet (peace be upon him): 'Amr ibn Umayyah al-Damari. He sent him to the Negus ⁵ with a letter guiding him to the path of rectitude. He took it, placed it upon his eyes, descended from his throne, and sat before him. Then he embraced Islam, submitted, testified to the truth he knew, and fulfilled the duty of honoring His messenger and His book. He sent to him, in compliance with his command, those of his companions who were with him. Dihyah ibn Khalifah al-Kalbi. He sent him to Heraclius ⁶, the king of the Romans, with a letter inscribed with the seal of guidance. He read the letter and was about to embrace Islam, but was met with reproach and blame from his companions. So he turned away, fearing for his kingdom, and refrained, afraid of their causing his destruction.

1. al-kātibīn : The scribes; here referring to the angelic scribes who record deeds.
2. al-hādī : The guide; a title for the Prophet Muhammad.
3. Abī al-Ṭāhir : Abu al-Tahir; a name or epithet, possibly referring to a companion or scholar.
4. al-Malik al-Qāhir : The Almighty King; one of the names of Allah.
5. al-Najāshī : The Negus; the title of the ruler of Abyssinia (Ethiopia) at the time of the Prophet.
6. Hiraql : Heraclius; the Byzantine emperor (r. 610–641 CE).

Abdullah ibn Hudhafa al-Sahmi [1]

Abdullah ibn Hudhafa al-Sahmi ¹ He was sent to Kisra ², the king of Persia, and prepared with him a letter containing the planting of sincere advice. He honored the planter, but he tore up the letter and recoiled from the response. When that reached him, he invoked God against him with tearing, so God tore apart his kingdom and the kingdom of his people. And with God is success. Hatib ibn Abi Balta'a al-Lakhmi ³ He was sent to al-Muqawqis ⁴, the king of Alexandria, who at that time was the great leader of the Copts in the Egyptian lands, commanding him to guidance and forbidding him from error. He spoke well and approached the matter, but he did not submit, so he did not escape the heat of the embers. And he sent to him Mariya ⁵ and her sister, and a gift. The tongue of the pen saw fit to abbreviate its description.

1. ʿAbd Allāh ibn Ḥudhāfa al-Sahmī : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, known for his missions to the Persian and Byzantine emperors.
2. Kisrā : Title of the Sasanian kings of Persia, specifically Khosrow II here.
3. Ḥāṭib ibn Abī Baltaʿa al-Lakhmī : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, sent as an envoy to the ruler of Egypt.
4. al-Muqawqis : The title of the Byzantine governor of Egypt, Cyrus of Alexandria, during the Islamic conquest.
5. Māriya : Mariya al-Qibtiyya, a Coptic slave girl sent to the Prophet Muhammad, who became his wife.

Shujāʿ ibn Wahb al-Asadī [1]

Shujāʿ ibn Wahb al-Asadī He was sent to al-Ḥārith, king of al-Balqāʾ in Syria, and sent with him a letter inviting him to Islam. He read it, paused over it, and threw it away, saying, "I will march against him." Then he resolved to march, but he returned frustrated and exhausted. Salīṭ ibn ʿAmr al-ʿĀmirī He was sent to Hawdha ibn ʿAlī in al-Yamāma, inviting him to what would bring him near to the Abode of Permanence ¹. He honored the messenger and lodged him, then wrote: "How excellent and beautiful is what you call to!" He praised himself in his oratory and poetry, and asked him to grant him some authority. But he refused him in his request and did not heed the embellished words he had composed. ʿAmr ibn al-ʿĀṣ He was sent to Jayfar, king of ʿUmān, summoning him to faith and security. He accepted Islam and submitted, and spoke with the word of truth and right. He left the alms-tax ² to ʿAmr and entrusted to him the reins of judgment and command.

1. dār al-maqāma : Literally 'the Abode of Permanence,' a term for Paradise in Islamic eschatology.
2. ṣadaqa : Voluntary alms or charity; in this context, it may refer to the obligatory alms-tax (zakāt) or general charity.

Al-ʿAlāʾ ibn al-Ḥaḍramī [1]

Al-ʿAlāʾ ibn al-Ḥaḍramī ¹ was sent to al-Mundhir al-ʿAbdī ², the king of Bahrain, with a letter stating that the one who bears the two testimonies ³ would receive wages—and I do not say two wages. He read the letter, responded well, embraced Islam, and affirmed the truth. He abandoned error and deserted those of the people of Hajar ⁴ who did not submit. He manifested a character that brought him near to Him who created everything by measure. (The messengers of the Prophet to the kings prepared themselves, calling them to the call of Islam. For whoever obeys, honor; and for whoever disobeys, disgrace that endures throughout the ages.) The servants of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace: Anas ibn Mālik, ʿAbd Allāh ibn Masʿūd, Abū Dharr ⁵ who, through his truthfulness, reached the pinnacle of the sought-after goal, Rabīʿa ibn Kaʿb, ʿUqba ibn ʿĀmir, and Aslaʿ ibn Sharīk.

1. al-ʿAlāʾ ibn al-Ḥaḍramī : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, sent as an envoy to the ruler of Bahrain.
2. al-Mundhir al-ʿAbdī : A ruler of the ʿAbd al-Qays tribe in Bahrain before Islam.
3. the two testimonies : The Shahada: bearing witness that there is no god but God and that Muhammad is His messenger.
4. Hajar : The historical capital of the Bahrain region in eastern Arabia.
5. Abū Dharr : Abū Dharr al-Ghifārī, a prominent companion known for his asceticism and truthfulness.

Devotee of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace [1]

al-Ẓāfir bi-al-Ghayth al-Hāmir, and Saʿd, the client of Abū Bakr al-Ṣiddīq, and Bilāl, the chief of the muʾadhdhins ¹ in truth, and Abū al-Ḥamrāʾ, and Dhū Mikhmar, and Bukayr, whose branch of good fortune became verdant and bore fruit. (The servants of the best of mankind ²—how noble a group they are! ... How many a flower they plucked from the garden of His grace!) (Had they not had a share of happiness extending to them, they would not have been granted the honor of serving Him.) The clients of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace: Zayd ibn Ḥāritha, and Usāma ibn Zayd, and Ayman, the martyr at Ḥunayn, and Aslam ibn ʿUbayd, and Abū Rāfiʿ, and Thawbān, and Abū Masrūḥ, and Shuqrān, and Yasār, and Rabāḥ, and Fuḍāla, the bird flying with the wing of success, and Abū Kabsha, and Ṭuhmān, and Abū al-Samḥ, and Kaysān, and Aflaḥ, and Hābūr, and Rāfiʿ, and Mudʿam, and Karkara, and Nāfiʿ, and Abū Muwahiba, and Dhakwān, and Abū Lubāba, and Marwān, and Hāshim, and Sundar, and Ḥunayn, and Yazīd, and Zayd, and ʿUbayd, and Saʿd, and Saʿīd, and Abū Wāqid, and Ḍumayra, and Abū ʿUsayb, and Safīna, the one who attained the fullest share of his service. And Umm Ayman, and Salmā, and Rayḥāna, and Māriya, who, through her son, rose to the peak of the celestial sphere and Kaywāna, and Rabīḥa, and Maymūna, and Khaḍra, the trustworthy and reliable, and Umm ʿAyyāsh, and Raḍwā, and Umm Ḍumayra, the dweller in the most honored abode.

1. muʾadhdhin : The person who calls the adhan, the Islamic call to prayer.
2. khayr al-warā : A phrase meaning 'the best of mankind,' referring to the Prophet Muhammad.

The horses and mounts of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him [1]

(The clients of the best of Allah's creation were ... stars of glory in the horizon of high stations) (O you whose intent is to express them ... they are the masters in the guise of clients) The Prophet's horses and mounts He had a black horse called al-Sakb for its swiftness, and a white horse called al-Murtajiz for the beauty of its neighing and song. And al-Lahif, which sweeps the ground with its long tail, and al-Lazaz and al-Dharb, which have no equal among the warhorses and no likeness. And al-Ward, which he gifted to 'Umar, and Sabha, which he raced but its trace could not be caught. These are seven agreed-upon horses, and the narrators mentioned others of his horses and pointed to them. He had a gray mule called Duldul, well-known in matter, and a mule called Fidda, gifted to him by al-Judhami Farwa ibn 'Amr, and a white mule sent to him by the ruler of Ayla with his letter, and a mule gifted to him by the people of al-Jandal along with a cloak from his garments. And two donkeys: one called 'Ufayr and the other Ya'fur. This is their count as recorded in the books of the people. He had a she-camel called al-'Adba', on which he emigrated to Medina, and a red camel on which he stood at 'Arafa—how far is al-Jadil from its firm station?—and a camel called al-Tha'lab, known in that regard, and a Mahri she-camel with a silver nose ring, which he took as spoils on the day of Badr, and a Mahri she-camel from the camels of Banu 'Uqayl at al-Hamiriyya, and several milk camels including Burda, Marwa, al-'Aris, and al-Sa'diyya. He had a flock of sheep including Ghawtha, Baraka, Zamzam, and Qamar. This is the text of what the transmissions have brought and what is established in the report.

The military expeditions, raids, and delegations [1]

(The Messenger's horses are seven, inscribed...) (And Duldul, his mule, is famous...) (And the she-camel 'Adba', excellent in form...) (Her praised and thanked image...) (And likewise his cattle mentioned...) (Their count is fixed and limited...) (So incline to his transmitted biography...) (And leave the wishes of your deluded soul...) (A greeting whose flowers are watered...) (From me upon him, never ceasing to be spread...) THE EXPEDITIONS, RAIDS, AND DELEGATIONS Expedition of Hamza ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib to the coast of the sea in the year one of the Hijra The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in Ramadan of the year of the Hijra and appointed for him a banner that guides with its whiteness to the path of victory. It is the first banner that the Messenger appointed, and Abu Marthad al-Ghanawi carried it—honored be the carrier and the carried. He set out with thirty Emigrants ¹ seeking the caravan of Abu Jahl ibn Hisham, who had returned with three hundred Qurayshites from the land of Syria. They met at the coast of the sea near al-'Is, and they lined up, saying: "There is no escape from fighting and no evasion." Then their ally Majdi ibn 'Amr intervened between the two parties until he prevented them from falling into the snares of conflict, and the matter was resolved. In this expedition, Hamza says in verses: "They did not cease until I set out for a raid against them, where they settled, seeking the bounty of virtue, By the command of the Messenger of God, the first fluttering banner over it, which had never appeared before. When we saw each other, they halted and hobbled their mounts, and we hobbled ours to the extent of the arrow's target. We said to them: 'The rope of God is our supporter, and they have no rope but misguidance.'"

1. Emigrants : Al-Muhājirūn: the early Muslims who migrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.

The expedition of Ubayda ibn al-Harith to Batn Rabigh in the first year of the Hijra [1].

Then Abu Jahl rose up there as an aggressor... and failed, and Allah thwarted the plot of Abu Jahl. O tribe of Lu'ay! Do not obey your misleaders, and return to Islam and the easy path. The Expedition of 'Ubayda ibn al-Harith to Batn Rabigh in the first year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Shawwal at the head of thirty-five men, and gave him a white banner carried by Misṭaḥ ibn Uthātha. He set out with sixty men from the Emigrants ¹, patient in striving in the way of Allah and persevering. He met Abu Sufyan with two hundred men gathered around him, at a watering place in Batn Rabigh mentioned above. There was skirmishing and shooting of arrows between them, but they did not draw swords nor line up for battle. Then each group withdrew to its side, and Ibn al-Harith returned to Medina with his victorious group.

1. Muhājirūn : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.

The expedition of Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqas to al-Kharrar in the year one of the Hijra [1].

And in this expedition, Abu Bakr al-Siddiq says in verses: (You see from Lu'ay a faction that neither reminder nor a sent messenger turns away from disbelief) (If they return from their disbelief and disobedience, then the good things of the lawful are not like the vile things) (And if they persist in their tyranny and misguidance, then Allah's punishment will not delay for them) (They will be met by a raid of truthfulness that will forbid the unveiling of women who have lost their virginity) (It will leave behind corpses around which birds will flock, and the disbelievers will not show mercy like the mercy of Ibn Harith) Expedition of Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas to al-Kharrar in the year one of the Hijra The Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Dhu al-Qi'dah of the year of his emigration and gave him a banner that shames the dawn with its whiteness and freshness. Al-Miqdad ibn 'Amr carried it, complying with what the master of the command indicated. He set out with twenty of the righteous Emigrants, seeking a Quraysh caravan, ordered not to go beyond al-Kharrar. They would hide during the day and travel at night until they reached it in the morning.

The Expedition of Waddan in the second year of the Hijra [1].

On Thursday, the day of the flood's arrival, they found that the caravan had passed the day before, so they returned to the service of one whose supplication caused the sun to return. (O Sa'd, inform me of the state of a raiding party... on the side of al-Kharrar, glory fell to them) (And relate about al-Mukhtar and string his pearls... upon me, and increase me from your speech, O Sa'd) The Expedition of Waddan, in the year two of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in Safar of the aforementioned year, and he gave his banner to Hamza, described with praiseworthy virtues, and appointed Sa'd ibn 'Ubada as his deputy over Medina. He marched with the Muhajirun ¹, adorned in garments of happiness, until he reached al-Abwa', intending a caravan of Quraysh, but he encountered no hostility, so he returned with those of the army who were with him. In this expedition, he made a truce with Banu Damra and wrote a treaty between him and them, which reliable narrators have mentioned. This was the first expedition he led himself, and because of it, Medina was left devoid of his blessing and his company.

1. Muhajirun : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet Muhammad.

The Expedition of Buwat [1] in the second year of the Hijra [2].

O driver of the camels, piercing through the rugged terrain, skillfully crossing the vast deserts. Stop at Waddan, for it belongs to Ahmad, the best of creation, the first of the expeditions. The expedition of Buwat in the year two of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in the month preceding it, Safar, and entrusted his banner to Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas during the journey, appointing Sa'd ibn Mu'adh as his deputy over Medina. He marched with two hundred of those who willingly offered the precious treasures of their souls in obedience to him. His intention was to intercept Umayya ibn Khalaf and the caravan, having heard that it contained a hundred Quraysh and fifteen hundred camels. He reached Buwat, which are mountains in the region of Radwa, but encountered no opposition, so he returned to the most honorable abode and the most generous resting place.

The Expedition of Safwan, which is the first Badr, occurred in the second year of the Hijra [1].

O you traveler, the glorious one, turn around ... towards Radwa and descend in the land of Buwat. Therein alighted the most noble of all messengers ... the best guide to the straight path. The expedition of Safwan, which is the first Badr, in the year two of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in Rabi' al-Awwal after Buwat, entrusting his banner to 'Ali ibn Abi Talib ¹, who follows the straightest path, and appointed Zayd ibn Haritha ² as his deputy in Medina. He marched with men bearing sharp spears and swords, seeking Kurz ibn Jabir ³, determined to cut off his tail. For he had raided the livestock of Medina, driving them away, and brought his people to a door of grief they could not bear. He continued in pursuit until he reached Safwan, in the region of Badr, then returned when the fugitive, who had come to the pool of treachery, eluded him. O traveler seeking the protection of Yathrib ⁴ ... rejoice and be glad, with a heart at ease.

1. 'Ali ibn Abi Talib : The cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, the fourth caliph in Sunni Islam, and the first imam in Shia Islam.
2. Zayd ibn Haritha : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, formerly his adopted son, and one of the early Muslims.
3. Kurz ibn Jabir : A polytheist who raided the livestock of Medina; later embraced Islam.
4. Yathrib : The pre-Islamic name of Medina, the city of the Prophet Muhammad.

The Expedition of Dhu al-‘Ushayrah occurred in the second year of the Hijra [1].

And I hasten to the chamber of the best of creation ¹ ... the final prophet ², the one of elevated rank. And follow the radiance of the traces of his footsteps ... and descend upon the dust ³ of the full moon ⁴. The expedition of Dhu al-‘Ushayra in the year two of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in Jumada al-Akhira, which occurred in the second year of the date of the emigration, and appointed over Tayba ⁵ Abu Salama ibn ‘Abd al-Asad, and entrusted to Hamza his banner ⁶, which has no limit to its elevation and no end. And he marched with one hundred and fifty of the emigrants ⁷, whose resolve in obedience to him is untainted by negligence or languor, when news reached him that the caravan of Quraysh had set out with their wealth and departed from Mecca to Syria, guarded by the hums ⁸ of their men. So he proceeded to Dhu al-‘Ushayra in the region of Yanbu‘, and found that the caravan had already entered their dwellings and pastures. In this expedition, he nicknamed ‘Ali “Abu Turab” ⁹ when he found him sleeping with nothing between him and the ground as a barrier.

1. khayr al-wara : The best of creation, a title for the Prophet Muhammad.
2. al-‘aqib : The final prophet, one of the names of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning the one who comes after all prophets.
3. safwan : Dust or earth, here referring to the humble state of following the Prophet.
4. badr : Full moon, a metaphor for the Prophet Muhammad's radiant beauty.
5. Tayba : Another name for Medina, meaning 'the good' or 'the pleasant'.
6. liwa’ : A banner or standard, used in military contexts in early Islam.
7. muhajirun : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.
8. al-hums : A term for the Quraysh tribe, referring to their religious zeal and protection of caravans.
9. Abu Turab : Father of dust, a nickname given to ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib by the Prophet Muhammad.

The expedition of Abdullah ibn Jahsh to Nakhla occurred in the second year of the Hijra [1].

In it, the Banu Mudlij and their allies from Banu Damrah made a treaty. Then he returned with his Companions, the Emigrants, having encountered neither harm nor anything unpleasant. (O companion, take me swiftly to Mecca ... and seek refuge in the dwellings and the gardens) (And urge the mounts, and take the rightward path ... to Dhu al-Ushayra ¹ of Yanbu‘) The Expedition of ‘Abdullah ibn Jahsh to Nakhla, in the year two of the Hijra ² The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the month of Rajab ³, the solitary. He set out with twelve Emigrants, those who kindled against their opponents the fire of reversal and expulsion, until he and those with him reached Nakhla ⁴, between Mecca and Ta’if. He camped, lying in wait for the Quraysh as he had been commanded, without fear or trepidation. Then a caravan of the Quraysh passed by them, carrying various kinds of merchandise. They seized the caravan and returned after killing one man and capturing two, openly proclaiming the good news. But the Quraysh said, in a tone of reproach: “Muhammad and his Companions have violated the sacred month.”

1. Dhu al-Ushayra : A place near Yanbu‘, where the Prophet camped during a military expedition.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Rajab : The seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, considered one of the four sacred months during which warfare was traditionally forbidden.
4. Nakhla : A valley between Mecca and Ta’if, location of the first military expedition that resulted in a skirmish during a sacred month.

The Great Battle of Badr occurred in the second year of the Hijra [1].

And concerning that, Abdullah ibn Jahsh said in verses: "You count a killing in the sacred month as great, but greater than it, if guidance were to be seen by the guided, is your turning away from what Muhammad says, and your disbelief in it—and Allah is seeing and witnessing—and your expulsion of the people of the Mosque of Allah, so that no one prostrating to Allah may be seen in the House." The Great Battle of Badr, in the second year of the Hijra. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out in the month of fasting, and the stars appeared among his companions like the full moon at its completion. He appointed Abu Lubaba ibn Abd al-Mundhir over Medina and gave his banner to Mus'ab ibn Umayr, possessor of the sword that, when it strikes, does not excuse. He marched with three hundred or more of the Muhajirun and Ansar, seeking a caravan of Quraysh containing various types of merchandise and a group of merchants, until he arrived near Badr and camped with those of honor and status. News of his departure to intercept them had reached Quraysh, so they sent to Mecca those who urged their companions to catch them. The spearman and the archer rushed to them, and they gathered nearly a thousand, between horsemen and foot soldiers. They turned back the caravan and secured the wealth, then awoke determined to fight and battle. The Muslims advanced to fight them, and the two groups met, swimming in the sea of their arena. The battle raged, the fire of war blazed, and Allah abandoned those who transgressed and rebelled among the polytheists, granting victory to the people of faith. They killed their chiefs and captured their nobles, achieving mighty victory and near conquest, and threw some of the slain into the well—and what will make you know what the well is? The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent Abdullah ibn Rawaha as a bearer of good news, rewarded, then returned (peace be upon him) with spoils and captives to his family, rejoicing. Concerning this battle, Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib said in verses: "The evening they went toward Badr with their multitude, they became pledges for the well of Badr. And we left Utba of error ¹ lying dead, and Shayba among the slain dragged in the hollow. And Amr lay among those who lay of their protectors, so the garments of the wailing women were torn for Amr." And concerning it, Ali ibn Abi Talib said in verses: "And He gave His Messenger power over them on the day of Badr, and a wrathful people whose deed was the best of deeds. The eyes of the wailing women spend the night over them, pouring forth with streaming and heavy rain. Wailing women mourn Utba of error and his son, and Shayba they mourn, and they mourn Abu Jahl." And concerning it, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: "The Messenger of Allah called to them when we threw them in heaps into the well: 'Did you not find my words to be true, and the command of Allah takes hold of hearts?' But they did not speak; had they spoken, they would have said: 'You have spoken truth, and you were of sound opinion.'" And concerning it, one said in verses: "We marched and they marched to Badr for their doom; if they knew with certain knowledge, they would not have marched. He ² deluded them with deception, then abandoned them; indeed, the evil one is treacherous to those who ally with him." And concerning it, one said in verses: "Oh, would that I knew if the people of Mecca have heard of our destruction of the disbelievers in the time of hardship. We killed the leaders of the people at our battlefield, and they did not return except with a breaking of the back. By my life, the horsemen of Malik and their followers did not hover on the day we met at Badr." And concerning it, Ka'b ibn Malik said in verses: "Your horsemen did not triumph at Badr, nor did they return to you safely. So do not hasten, Abu Sufyan, and watch for the swift horses emerging from Kada' ³."

1. Utba of error : Utba ibn Rabi'a, a Quraysh leader killed at Badr; 'error' (al-ghayy) is a play on his name or a reference to his misguidance.
2. He : Refers to Satan (Iblis), who incited the polytheists to fight then abandoned them.
3. Kada' : A mountain pass or road near Mecca.

The expedition of 'Umayr ibn 'Adi against Asma' bint Marwan in the second year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Umayr ibn Adi against Asma bint Marwan in the year two of the Hijra. He set out with five men during the month of the Night of Power ¹, whose days were radiant with lights, from among the people of Badr. He traveled to Asma, who used to revile Islam and recite poetry inciting against the Best of Mankind ². He came to her until he entered her house in the middle of the night and leaned on her chest with the blade of his sword, leaning fully. Then he returned and prayed the dawn prayer with the Messenger, and in the morning he was received by every believer with double acceptance. (Umair, may God protect him, the vigilant one, and lodge him in Paradise in the highest station) (To the house of Marwan he went, with his sword saying to her: 'No protector today, O Asma.')

1. Laylat al-Qadr : The Night of Power, a night in Ramadan when the Quran was first revealed, considered better than a thousand months.
2. Khayr al-Anam : The Best of Mankind, a title for the Prophet Muhammad.

The expedition of Salim ibn Umayr against Abu Afak the Jew in the second year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Salim ibn 'Umayr against Abu 'Afak the Jew in the year two of the Hijra. He set out in Shawwal of the specified year and proceeded without hearing any claim or evidence regarding the killing of the Jew. He was an old man who had reached one hundred and twenty years, composing poetry inciting against those who swam in the sea of prophethood and plunged. So he came to him at night while he was standing in the courtyard of his house, placed the sword on his liver until it came out from his vertebrae, then Salim returned in the safety of security after having sent the enemy of Allah and His Messenger to his death. (Why does Allah's curse pursue you, inciting against the best of those sent to mankind and jinn?) (A Hanif ¹ bestowed upon you a stab in the dead of night; take it, Abu 'Afak, despite your old age.)

1. Hanif : A term referring to a monotheist inclined towards the true religion, often used for Muslims or those following the pure faith of Abraham.

The expedition against Banu Qaynuqa occurred in the second year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition against Banu Qaynuqa' occurred in the second year of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet (peace be upon him) set out in the middle of Shawwal ² of that year, entrusted his banner to Hamza ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib, appointed Abu Lubaba ibn al-Mundhir as his deputy over Medina, and marched against Banu Qaynuqa' with the Companions. They were the first of the Jews to betray, for they had made a covenant with him and then broke the bond of treaties. He besieged them for fifteen days, accepting no excuse after their treachery, and blockaded them in their fortress with the utmost severity, rallying against them the Muhajirun ³ and the Ansar ⁴ until Allah cast terror and fear into their hearts. They surrendered to his judgment, neither openly nor secretly opposing him. He took their wealth as spoils, left their women and children, and took them captive. Then he released them, gathered them, expelled them from their land, and dispersed them. He returned to Medina accompanied by victory, divine support, and tranquility. (Relate the war which the best of mankind led... and mention Banu Qaynuqa') (When they transgressed, the Chosen One ⁵ expelled them... and from them he emptied the hills and valleys)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Shawwal : The tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
3. Muhajirun : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.
4. Ansar : The Medinan converts who supported the Prophet and the Muhajirun.
5. al-Mustafa : An epithet of the Prophet Muhammad meaning 'the Chosen One'.

The Expedition of Sawiq [1] occurred in the second year of the Hijra [2].

The Expedition of Sawīq in the second year of the Hijra ¹ Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in the sacred month of Dhul-Hijjah, appoint as his deputy Abu Lubaba ², the one who attained success and the desired goal. This was when he learned that Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, after the polytheists had returned from Badr—nay, from the place where distress had been repelled—had set out with a company to vent their rage, which was increasing and overflowing, until they passed by a place near Medina known as al-‘Urayd ³. There they killed two men and burned several houses. When they sensed that they were being pursued, the arrow of dispersal struck among them, and they fled in haste, seeking the road. They began to lighten their loads for escape, throwing away the sacks of sawīq ⁴, which was the main part of their provisions. The Muslims took it and returned to their land. (Say to Abu Sufyan, if you meet him: What do you think of the Expedition of Sawīq?) (You threw it away when He scattered you, tearing your mounts apart most severely.)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Abu Lubaba : A companion of the Prophet, also known as Bashir ibn Abd al-Mundhir, who was appointed as governor of Medina during the expedition.
3. al-‘Urayd : A location near Medina, possibly a valley or a place with palm trees.
4. sawīq : A type of food made from ground barley or wheat, often mixed with dates or honey, used as a travel provision.

The expedition of Qarqarat al-Kudr occurred in the third year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Qarqarat al-Kudr ¹ occurred in the year three of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in the middle of Muharram at the beginning of the third year of his honored emigration, appointing Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum ² as his deputy. He entrusted his banner to Ali, the possessor of known virtue, and marched with two hundred men to the smooth, barren land of Qarqara, located in the region of al-Ma'din ³, of a certain length and width. He had heard that it was filled with people of polytheism and tyranny, and that there was a gathering of Sulaym and Ghatafan ⁴ there. When he arrived with the most honorable company, he found only shepherds and five hundred camels. He seized them as spoils, and his companions, the people of division, divided them. Then he returned, dragging the hem of his garment on the clouds of reward. His blessed absence was fifteen nights. (O lesson of the campaigns, recite it among us, and mention to us Qarqarat al-Kudr, a station where the Chosen One alighted, fighting the people of polytheism and treachery.)

1. Qarqarat al-Kudr : A location, possibly a valley or plain, known for its smooth, barren ground; the name may refer to a specific site in the region of Najd.
2. Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum : A blind companion of the Prophet, often appointed as governor of Medina during the Prophet's absences.
3. al-Ma'din : A region in Arabia known for its mines, possibly referring to the area of the gold mines in the Hijaz.
4. Sulaym and Ghatafan : Two powerful Arab tribes that were often hostile to the Muslims during the early Islamic period.

The expedition of Muhammad ibn Maslamah against Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf the Jew in the third year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition ¹ of Muhammad ibn Maslamah ² against Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf ³ the Jew in the third year of the Hijra ⁴. He set out against him in Rabi' al-Awwal ⁵ with five men from the Aws ⁶, and they went forth towards him like an arrow from a bow. He was rebellious in his disbelief and harmed the Muslims by satirizing them in his poetry, until they came to him at night and brought him down from his fortress ⁷. They walked with him in the moonlight by deceit and killed him. Then they left at the end of the night near dawn and recounted the news to the one who sent them, peace be upon him ⁸. He rejoiced at their night journey, praised them, and thanked their effort. (When you rebelled, five came to you... their swords, not the blades, were unknown) (They left you when you deviated from the paths of guidance, O Ka'b, son of al-Ashraf, companion of destruction). The expedition of Ghatafan ⁹ in the third year of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, peace be upon him, set out in the aforementioned month to Dhu Amarr ¹⁰ and appointed...

1. sariyya : A military expedition or raiding party sent by the Prophet Muhammad, typically smaller than a ghazwa (campaign led by the Prophet himself).
2. Muhammad ibn Maslamah : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad from the Aws tribe, known for his role in the assassination of Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf.
3. Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf : A Jewish leader and poet from the tribe of Banu Nadir, who opposed the Prophet Muhammad and was killed for his hostility.
4. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
5. Rabi' al-Awwal : The third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
6. Aws : One of the two main Arab tribes in Medina (the other being Khazraj), who embraced Islam and supported the Prophet.
7. hisn : Fortress or fortified stronghold, often used by Jewish tribes in Medina.
8. peace be upon him : A formulaic blessing used after mentioning the Prophet Muhammad.
9. Ghatafan : A large Arab tribe that was often in conflict with the early Muslim community.
10. Dhu Amarr : A location in the region of Najd, site of a military expedition led by the Prophet Muhammad.

The Expedition of Bahrān occurred in the third year after the Hijra [1].

Uthman ibn Affan, the gatherer of the parties and the surahs, and that was when it reached him that there was a gathering of Tha'labah and Muharib there, seeking to achieve their aims from the outlying regions. He set out with fifty-four of his companions and went, sparing no effort in seeking the supporters of polytheism and its parties. When they drew near to their location, they found none of the men there, except that they saw them fleeing to the mountaintops. In this expedition, Daththur ibn al-Harith drew the sword of injustice against the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, but Gabriel, peace be upon him, repelled it until that sword fell from his hand. Then he embraced Islam and called his people to Islam. The possessor of the clear signs ¹ returned with those of his companions who were the banners. (The Prophet set out himself and with his companions ... to fight the people of polytheism from Ghatafan) (They fled, and had they stood firm that morning, they would have seen ... a sword and a neck, how they unite) The Expedition of Bahran, in the third year of the Hijra Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out after four months had passed, appointing Ibn Umm Maktum over Medina, which is illuminated by stars and full moons. He prepared for travel until he arrived at Bahran, which is

1. ṣāḥib al-āyāt al-bayyināt : A title referring to the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'the possessor of the clear signs' or 'the one with the manifest miracles'.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to al-Qaradah occurred in the third year of the Hijrah [1].

In three hundred of his people, the people of faith, when he heard that there was a large gathering of Banu Sulaym there who would not separate from those who sought to divide them, not even from Umm al-Lahim ¹, he found neither 'Amr nor Zayd among them. So he returned after ten nights, and he encountered no deceit. (To Banu Sulaym say: When you come to them, ... Did you flee in fear of the brave?) (If you had stood firm for the encounter, you would have entered ... The sea of death in the sanctuary of Bahran ²) Expedition of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Qarada ³ in the year three of the Hijra. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him in Jumada al-Akhira of this year to seek a caravan of Quraysh containing a quantity of silver and several livestock. So he set out with a hundred riders and traveled like the moon among the stars. He captured the caravan, and the people fled. He obtained the goods of those who prayed and fasted. Then they returned safely with the spoils and presented them to the one of generous hand and great character. He took a fifth of it and divided the rest among the people of the expedition. And that matter concluded with goodness and piety.

1. Umm al-Lahim : A place name; literally 'mother of meat,' possibly a location in the Arabian Peninsula.
2. Bahran : A place name; possibly a valley or region in the Arabian Peninsula.
3. al-Qarada : A place name; a location where the expedition took place, possibly a watering place or region.

The Battle of Uhud occurred in the third year after the Hijra [1].

O Zayd, may our Lord increase you from His bounty... You have come with beneficence and flocks. The polytheists were forsaken; by God, you have won this morning the fullest share. The Battle of Uhud, year three of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out on the seventh of Shawwal, with his Companions who did not fear plunging into the sea of terrors. He entrusted his banner to Mus‘ab ibn ‘Umayr and appointed Ibn Umm Maktum ¹ as his deputy, who was inscribed among the people of goodness. He had learned that Abu Sufyan and those with him from Quraysh had not found the spring of life sweet after the Battle of Badr, and that they had agreed to wage war against him, resolved to confront him in a troop, and marched, cutting through stages toward his territory, advancing with three thousand armored men, horsemen, and foot soldiers until they encamped near Medina, casting off the garments of dignity and tranquility. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, proceeded until he camped at the mountain pass of Uhud with one thousand seven hundred men, none of whom turned away or deviated. Then the two parties met and fought until the two companions ² and the two veracious ones ³, and the fire of war blazed, the thrusts and strikes intensified. It was a day of trial, purification, vexation, and distress for the Muslims. God honored whom He honored therein with martyrdom and transferred whom He transferred of the believers to the abode of bliss. Then He strengthened His party with His might, sent down His victory, and fulfilled His promise. In it, Hamza ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib and Mus‘ab ibn ‘Umayr were killed. After him, the banner was carried by Malik, the reins of valor in Najd and al-Ghuwayr. Seventy of those pointed to with the finger of honor were killed. Qatada’s eye was struck, but the Messenger restored it, and it became the better of his two eyes. Then Abu Sufyan departed with those with him, stumbling in darkness, and called out: "Your appointment is at Badr next year." It was said to him: "Yes." The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, went out seeking Hamza, his uncle, swimming in the sea of grief for him—and what grief! When he found him, he prayed over him seventy-two prayers and returned to Medina after burying him in that barren land. On the day of Uhud, Hassan ibn Thabit said: "Leave off mentioning a dwelling whose people have scattered... far off among the mountain peaks, cut off. And say: If a day at Uhud is counted by a fool... then the truth will surely become widespread. Indeed, the Banu al-Aws all persevered therein... and they have a lofty remembrance there. Before the Messenger of God, no doubt that he... is for them a helper from their Lord and an intercessor." And Ka‘b ibn Malik said in verses: "And remember Quraysh on the morning of the slope of Uhud... what we encountered and what they encountered of flight. We were lions, and they were leopards when they advanced... we did not regard lineage or kinship. They surged and we surged, but they did not win nor return... and we struck them, not failing in pursuit. Among us is the Messenger, a meteor, followed by... a luminous light, superior to meteors. He appeared to us, and we followed him, believing him... while they disbelieved him, so we were the most fortunate of Arabs." And concerning Hamza, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: "Leave aside a dwelling whose traces have faded... and weep for Hamza, the generous. The one who fills the shayzi ⁴ when the dust-laden wind blows... in the cold, barren land. White in the summit of Hashim... he did not bypass truth with falsehood. The earth grew dark at his loss... and the light of the waning moon turned black." And Ka‘b ibn Malik said in verses: "Indeed, I trembled at the loss of Hamza with a tremor... that made the daughters of the chest ⁵ tremble. And if Hira’ ⁶ were bereaved of his like... you would see its rocks' heads shatter. A chief established in the summit of Hashim... where prophethood, generosity, and nobility reside. The uncle of the Prophet Muhammad and Safiyya... he drank the cup of death, and that was a blessed watering place."

1. Ibn Umm Maktum : A blind Companion of the Prophet, known for his piety and appointed as deputy of Medina during the Prophet's absence.
2. al-ṣāḥibān : Refers to the two Companions, likely Abu Bakr and ‘Umar, or possibly the Prophet and Abu Bakr.
3. al-ṣiddīqān : The two veracious ones, referring to Abu Bakr al-Siddiq and ‘Umar, or sometimes to Abu Bakr and ‘Ali.
4. al-shayzī : A type of vessel or container, possibly a large bowl or cup, used metaphorically for generosity.
5. banāt al-jawf : Literally 'daughters of the chest,' a poetic expression for the ribs or the heart.
6. Ḥirā’ : The mountain near Mecca where the Prophet received the first revelation; used here as a symbol of sanctity and stability.

The Expedition of Hamra' al-Asad [1] occurred in the third year after the Hijra [2].

And concerning him, he says in verses: (My eye wept, and it had the right to weep for her... but what does weeping or wailing avail) (For the lion of God ¹, on the morning they said... "O Hamza, that man is the slain one") (The Muslims were all afflicted by him... there, and the Messenger was afflicted by him) (O Abu Ya'la ², the pillars ³ have been shaken for you... and you are the noble, the pious, the kinsman) (Upon you be the peace of your Lord in gardens... mixed with a bliss that never ceases) THE EXPEDITION OF HAMRA' AL-ASAD ⁴ IN THE YEAR THREE OF THE HIJRA Then the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, went out in the aforementioned Shawwal after the Battle of Uhud ⁵, whose day and fame are well-known, and appointed 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum ⁶ as his deputy. He marched to terrify his defeated enemy and his deprived opponent, so that they would hear of his departure in pursuit of them and be certain that he was earnest in killing them and taking their spoils, until he reached Hamra' al-Asad, which is eight miles from Medina. Then he returned without encountering any hostility, and the duration of his absence was five nights. (For the march of Ahmad ⁷, terrifying his enemy... the stars of guidance appeared at Hamra' al-Asad)

1. asad Allah : Lion of God, a title given to Hamza ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib, the Prophet's uncle, known for his bravery.
2. Abu Ya'la : A kunya (patronymic) of Hamza, meaning 'father of Ya'la'.
3. arkan : Pillars; here metaphorically referring to the foundations of Islam or the community.
4. Hamra' al-Asad : A location about eight miles from Medina, site of an expedition after the Battle of Uhud.
5. Uhud : A mountain near Medina, site of the famous battle in 3 AH where Hamza was martyred.
6. 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum : A blind companion of the Prophet, often appointed as governor of Medina during expeditions.
7. Ahmad : Another name of the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'most praiseworthy'.

The expedition of Abu Salama al-Makhzumi to Qatan in the year four of the Hijra [1].

A brave hero, how many a raid he carried out... bringing down the people of misguidance and envy. The expedition of Abu Salama al-Makhzumi to Qatan in the year four of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him at the beginning of Muharram, and appointed for him a banner whose glory never fades nor is cut off. He equipped with him one hundred and fifty men from the Emigrants and the Helpers—what excellent helpers they are, before whose awe the people of the deserts and cities flee. That was when he learned that the two sons of Khuwaylid were calling for war against him and inciting people to fight those who had joined his party. So he marched to Qatan, which is a mountain in the region of Fayd ¹. They captured the prey of camels and sheep, and were safe from treachery. Then they descended to Medina with what they had gained as spoils, and witnessed the absence of the people of polytheism and falsehood, as they had learned. (They went to a region of Fayd...) (For a group whose polytheism was in chains...)

1. Fayd : A place in Najd, between Mecca and Kufa, known for its water and palm trees.

The expedition of Abdullah ibn Unays against Sufyan al-Hudhali at 'Arnah in the year four of the Hijra [1].

So they turned back from them with the game ¹... And they were safe from harm and deceit... The expedition of Abdullah ibn Unays against Sufyan al-Hudhali at 'Arnah in the year four of the Hijra ². The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him on the fifth day of the mentioned month to Sufyan, the rider of the ship of his transgression, known for his disbelief and notorious for his unbelief, when news reached him that he had moved from his place and was inciting the polytheists to fight him. So Abdullah went to him alone, relying on Him who helps His servant and fulfills His promise, killed him, and brought his head to him, placing it before him upon his arrival. He gave him a staff and said, "Lean on this in Paradise." So he took it from his noble hand, adorned by this favor. And concerning Sufyan al-Hudhali, Abdullah ibn Unays said in verses: "I left Ibn Thawr ³ like a young calf, and around him... wailing women tearing every embroidered garment. I struck him, with thrusts behind and before, with a white, water-like, Indian sword. And I said to him, 'Take it, the blow of a noble one, a monotheist ⁴ on the religion of the Prophet Muhammad.'"

1. al-sayd : Game or prey; here referring to the spoils of war or the hunted quarry.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Ibn Thawr : A reference to Sufyan al-Hudhali, whose father's name was Thawr.
4. hanif : A monotheist inclined to the true religion, often used for those who follow the pure faith of Abraham.

The expedition of al-Mundhir ibn 'Amr to Bi'r Ma'unah occurred in the fourth year of the Hijrah [1].

And if the Messenger ¹ intended to confront a disbeliever, I would hasten to him with tongue and hand. The expedition of al-Mundhir ibn 'Amr to Bi'r Ma'unah ² in the fourth year of the Hijrah ³. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him to Najd ⁴ in Safar ⁵, and he dispatched with him thirty men and ten men from the young men of the Ansar ⁶. They went in the company of Mulāʿib al-Asinnah ⁷, 'Amir ibn Malik, until they camped at Bi'r Ma'unah, whose approaches were surrounded by perils. 'Amir had come and was not far from Islam, and he suggested sending the men for the call [to Islam], undertaking to guarantee protection and raise the banners. But the enemy of Allah, 'Amir ibn al-Tufayl, was informed of them and called the tribes of Sulaym ⁸ for aid. They came with men and horses and surrounded the Companions, rushing upon them. They fought them until they were killed—may the mercy of Allah and His good pleasure be upon them.

1. al-Rasūl : The Messenger, referring to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Bi'r Ma‘ūnah : A well in the region of Najd, site of a famous expedition where a group of Muslim missionaries were ambushed and killed.
3. al-Hijrah : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. Najd : A central region of the Arabian Peninsula.
5. Safar : The second month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
6. al-Anṣār : The 'Helpers,' the Muslim inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet Muhammad after his emigration.
7. Mulā‘ib al-Asinnah : A nickname for 'Amir ibn Malik, meaning 'the one who plays with spears,' a famous warrior and chief.
8. Sulaym : A powerful Arab tribe in the Najd region.

The expedition of Mirthad al-Ghanawi to al-Raji' in the year four of the Hijra [1].

And concerning the slain of Bi'r Ma'una ¹, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: (Weep for the slain of Ma'una, and let flow ... tears from the eye, abundant and not scant) (For the horses of the Messenger on the day they met ... and their fates met them by decree) The expedition of Murthad al-Ghanawi to al-Raji' ² in the year four of the Hijra. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him with six of the leading Companions, among them Khubayb ibn 'Adi ³, possessor of miracles and answered prayers. They went accompanied by a group from 'Adl and al-Qara, who had come seeking someone to teach their people and instruct them in the Qur'an, until they alighted at al-Raji', a watering place of Hudhayl ⁴ in the direction of 'Usfan. Then the Banu Lahyan ⁵ attacked them treacherously, killing some and capturing others, then executed them in captivity. When they resolved to crucify Khubayb, he said in verses: (They have gathered their sons and women ... and I am brought near to a tall, fortified trunk) (That is for the sake of God; and if He wills ... He blesses the limbs of a torn body) (I care not, after I die a Muslim ... on which side my death falls for God) And concerning Khubayb, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: (If there were in the abode a people of vigilance ... protectors of honor, resolute, of noble lineage) (You would find Khubayb in a spacious gathering ... and the prison and guards would not constrain you) And concerning Hudhayl, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: (If pure treachery without jest pleases you ... then go to al-Raji' and ask about the abode of Lahyan) (A people who enjoin eating the neighbor among themselves ... their best man is like a goat, equal) And concerning them, he said in verses: (No, by God, Hudhayl does not know ... whether Zamzam water is pure or mixed) (And they have no share, when they perform 'Umra and Hajj ... of the two stones and the Sa'i) (But al-Raji' is their place ... where blame and faults are manifest) (They betrayed their covenant with Khubayb ... evil is the covenant, their false pledge)

1. Bi'r Ma'una : A well where a group of Muslim missionaries were killed by the Banu 'Amir tribe in 4 AH.
2. al-Raji' : A location near 'Usfan where the expedition of Khubayb ibn 'Adi took place.
3. Khubayb ibn 'Adi : A Companion known for his martyrdom and miracles, including his prayer being answered.
4. Hudhayl : A tribe that was involved in the betrayal at al-Raji'.
5. Banu Lahyan : A sub-tribe of Hudhayl that attacked the Muslim expedition.

The expedition against Banu al-Nadir occurred in the fourth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition against Banu al-Nadir ¹ in the fourth year of the Hijra ². Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in Rabi' al-Awwal ³ of that year, leaving 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum ⁴ in charge of Medina. He marched with his companions to Banu al-Nadir, determined to fight both the great and the lowly among them, since they had betrayed, plotted, broken the covenant, and acted treacherously. He besieged them for ten and a half days, and God cast terror into their hearts, multiplying their weakness. He expelled them from their homes at their own request, spared their blood and some of their property, and ordered the seizure of the wealth and goods they left behind, including their shields, armor, and swords. Their wealth became fay' ⁵ for him and a reserve for his emergencies. Then he returned, victorious over the People of the Book ⁶, rejoicing with his battalions. (When they were imbued with treachery and disbelief, and aversion to the truth had taken hold of them, God showed the Prophet a truthful opinion, and God judges without injustice.)

1. Banu al-Nadir : A Jewish tribe in Medina that was expelled after breaking their treaty with the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Rabi' al-Awwal : The third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
4. 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum : A blind companion of the Prophet Muhammad, often appointed as governor of Medina during the Prophet's absences.
5. fay' : Spoils of war obtained from non-Muslims without a military conflict, considered public property for the Muslim community.
6. People of the Book : A term used in Islam for Jews and Christians, who are considered to have received revealed scriptures.

The Battle of Badr, the appointed time, in the year four of the Hijra [1].

So He supported him and gave him authority over them... and his helper was the best of helpers. And the Banu al-Nadir perished in an evil abode... the Destroyer annihilated them for what they committed. The Expedition of Badr al-Maw'id ¹ in the year four of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, set out against Abu Sufyan at the beginning of Dhu al-Qa'da, with one thousand five hundred men of intellect and valor, and appointed 'Abdullah ibn Rawaha over Medina. He gave the banner to 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, the man of courage and generosity, and they proceeded to Badr, where they stayed for eight days. They were met at the sale of their merchandise there with profit and honor. Abu Sufyan set out from Mecca with two thousand men and went until he reached Majanna ² in the direction of al-Zahran ³. Then it occurred to him to return, so he returned, and what had gathered of the disbelieving faction dispersed. The Muslims relied on Him by whose command rivers flow from stones, and they returned with a blessing from God and bounty, untouched by harm—and the bounty was the profit they gained from the trade. Concerning this expedition, Ka'b ibn Malik says in some verses: "We promised Abu Sufyan a promise, and we found not... for his appointment truth, nor was he faithful."

1. Badr al-Maw'id : The 'Appointed Badr' expedition, also known as the second Badr, where the Muslims and Quraysh agreed to meet at Badr a year after the Battle of Badr.
2. Majanna : A place near Mecca, known as a market in the pre-Islamic period.
3. al-Zahran : A valley near Mecca, also known as Batn al-Zahran.

The Expedition of Dhat al-Riqa' occurred in the fifth year of the Hijra [1].

So I swear, if you had come to us and met us... you would have returned blameworthy and lost the allies. Expedition of Dhat al-Riqa' in the year five of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out on the tenth night of Muharram with four hundred of those whom God had favored with His companionship and honored, and he appointed Uthman ibn Affan as his deputy over Medina, upon hearing that Anmar and Tha'laba had united in transgression and aggression. He headed for Najd until he reached their dwellings at Dhat al-Riqa', which is a mountain containing patches of red, black, and white, but he found only a small group of women in seclusion ¹, and was informed that the assembled parties had dispersed to the mountaintops. In this expedition, the Muslims performed the prayer of fear ² and acted with caution against the enemy, which should not be coupled with 'sawfa' ³. In it, he asked forgiveness for Jabir ibn Abdullah many times and prodded his slow camel, so it went forth racing the swift she-camels.

1. dhawat al-hijal : Literally 'those of the curtained litters', referring to women of high status who are secluded in their howdahs.
2. salat al-khawf : The prayer of fear, a shortened and modified form of prayer performed during times of danger or battle.
3. sawfa : An Arabic particle indicating future tense, often implying delay or procrastination. The phrase 'should not be coupled with sawfa' means that caution should be immediate, not postponed.

The expedition of Dumat al-Jandal [1] occurred in the fifth year of the Hijra [2].

In it, a man from the polytheists took his sword, drew it against him, and began to brandish it and intend to strike him, but Allah prevented him from doing so and returned the sword to him. Then the Muslims returned, rejoicing in the goodness of their outcome. Their absence had lasted fifteen nights. (The driver of the howdah ¹ journeyed in glory and headed... toward the land of Najd, and alight at Dhat al-Riqa' ².) (So to her came the Messenger, destroying... the enemies with every valiant and courageous chief.) The Expedition of Dumat al-Jandal ³ in the year five of the Hijra ⁴. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out with five nights remaining in Rabi' al-Awwal ⁵, accompanied by a thousand of those who would not change in their love for him nor turn away. He appointed Siba' ibn 'Arfata al-Ghifari ⁶ as his deputy and took a guide from the tribe of 'Udhra ⁷, knowledgeable in the deserts and wildernesses. He marched toward Dumat al-Jandal, which is on the borders of Syria, having heard that there...

1. sā'iq al-ẓaʿn : The driver of the howdah (camel litter), a poetic expression for the leader of a caravan.
2. Dhāt al-Riqāʿ : A place name; the location of a famous expedition (Ghazwat Dhat al-Riqa').
3. Dūmat al-Jandal : An oasis town in northern Arabia, on the border of Syria, known for its fortress.
4. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
5. Rabīʿ al-Awwal : The third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
6. Sibāʿ ibn ʿArfaṭa al-Ghifārī : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, appointed as governor of Medina during the expedition.
7. ʿUdhra : An Arab tribe known for their expertise in desert travel and navigation.

The Expedition of al-Muraysī‘ occurred in the fifth year after the Hijra [1].

They gathered, walking through the darkness of the caravan. When they approached it, they found only the shepherds and livestock, so they took from them. Their owners heard of them, so they scattered in the desert and stayed there for several days. Then they returned, overwhelmed with grace and bounty. (O Dumah al-Jandal in Syria...) (With the sandal of acceptance and bounty...) (There came to you the Master of Banners...) (Muhammad, the Protector of Islam's sanctity...) May Allah, the Possessor of Honor, bless him. (As long as the flowers of the meadow bloom in their calyxes...) The Expedition of al-Muraysi' in the year five of the Hijra. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out on the night of the second of Sha'ban, with an army that illuminated the horizons with its stars of heroes and knights. He took with him 'A'isha and Umm Salama, his wives, and left Zayd ibn Haritha in Medina, entrusting its affairs to him. He headed towards the territory of Banu al-Mustaliq, with banners fluttering and gleaming on their poles, having heard of their gathering—the thicket refusing to flee—and the incitement of their leader, al-Harith ibn Abi Dirar. When they learned of his march, their situation became confused and disordered, and those Arabs who were with them dispersed. He continued traversing the stages and folding up the waystations until he met them at al-Muraysi', a watering place of theirs near the coast. They lined up for battle and exchanged arrows for a while, then the Muslims charged at them as one man, and they overcame both horseman and foot soldier, both near and far. In this expedition occurred the incident of 'A'isha and the words of the people of the slander ¹ concerning her. Then revelation came down from the Qur'an declaring her innocence of what was mentioned, explicitly and implicitly. In it also was revealed the verse of tayammum ², recited throughout the ages. The duration of absence from the pure dwellings was nearly a month. Concerning the affair of 'A'isha, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: (Chaste and dignified, she is not suspected of any suspicion, And she wakes up hungry from the flesh of the heedless.) (The noble lady of the tribe of Lu'ayy ibn Ghalib, Of noble aspirations, whose glory is never-ending.) (Refined, Allah has perfumed her nature, And purified her from all evil and falsehood.)

1. ahl al-ifk : The people of the slander; refers to those who spread the false accusation against 'A'isha, the Prophet's wife, during the Expedition of al-Muraysi'.
2. tayammum : Dry ablution; a ritual purification using clean earth or dust when water is unavailable or cannot be used.

The Battle of the Trench, known as the Battle of the Confederates, occurred in the fifth year of the Hijra [1].

The Battle of the Trench ¹, known as the Battle of the Confederates ², occurred in the fifth year of the Hijra ³. In the month of Dhu al-Qa'dah of that year, the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, learned that a group from the Banu al-Nadir ⁴ had gone to Mecca after their famous incident, inciting the Quraysh ⁵ against him, calling them to war and to march against him. They persisted in gathering the confederates and worked to unite the allied tribes ⁶ and the Bedouins. He ordered the digging of a trench around Medina on the advice of Salman ⁷, and he himself dug in it with his noble hand to encourage the believers. The Muslims worked diligently and labored for about ten nights until it was completed. He set out with three thousand of his supporters and made the trench a barrier between him and his enemies. Abu Sufyan ibn Harb ⁸ advanced, leading the polytheists who gathered around him from the east and west: the Quraysh, Sulaym, Banu Asad and those with them, Banu Fazarah, Ashja', Banu Murrah, and those who followed them. He encamped with ten thousand men, and those of Banu Qurayzah ⁹ who had broken the covenant and acted treacherously joined them. The matter became grave and the situation severe; hypocrisy emerged from those who feared for the jewel from the ember ¹⁰. The polytheists besieged for about a month, with nothing between the two sides but the shooting of short arrows. However, 'Amr ibn 'Abd Wudd ¹¹ came forward saying, "Is there any duelist?" So 'Ali ibn Abi Talib ¹² engaged him and killed him, a heroic slaying. Then God sent upon them the wind and dispatched the armies of sanctification and glorification ¹³, and brandished among them the swords of discord, so they departed after they had almost perished in destructive storms. In this battle, many miracles appeared to the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, including the return of a hard rock in the trench like a sand dune after it had been extremely hard, the multiplication of a small amount of dates from the sister of al-Nu'man ibn Bashir ¹⁴, and the satiation of the people of the trench from a small sheep of Jabir ¹⁵ and a handful of barley. Then the Muslims settled in their homes and were spared the evil of those who, out of ignorance, sought to extinguish their daylight. Regarding the killing of 'Amr ibn 'Abd Wudd, 'Ali ibn Abi Talib said: "I helped the stones ¹⁶ from the folly of his opinion, and I helped the Lord of Muhammad with right guidance. And I turned away when I left him fallen like a trunk among mounds and hills."

1. غَزْوَة الخَنْدَق : The Battle of the Trench, a defensive battle in 627 CE where Muslims dug a trench around Medina.
2. الأحزاب : The Confederates, referring to the coalition of tribes that attacked Medina.
3. الْهِجْرَة : The Hijra, the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. بني النَّضِير : Banu al-Nadir, a Jewish tribe expelled from Medina after plotting against the Prophet.
5. قُرَيْش : Quraysh, the dominant tribe in Mecca, initially opposed to Islam.
6. الْأَحَابِيش : Al-Ahabish, allied tribes or mercenaries supporting the Quraysh.
7. سلمَان : Salman al-Farsi, a Persian companion who suggested digging the trench.
8. أَبُو سُفْيَان بن حَرْب : Abu Sufyan ibn Harb, a Quraysh leader and commander of the confederate forces.
9. بني قُرَيْظَة : Banu Qurayzah, a Jewish tribe in Medina who broke their treaty with the Muslims.
10. نجم نفاق من يخْشَى على الْيَاقُوت من الْجَمْر : A metaphorical expression: hypocrisy emerged from those who feared for the jewel (faith) from the ember (trial).
11. عَمْرو بن عبد ود : 'Amr ibn 'Abd Wudd, a renowned Quraysh warrior killed by 'Ali in single combat.
12. عَليّ بن أبي طَالب : 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law, later the fourth caliph.
13. جنود التَّقْدِيس وَالتَّسْبِيح : Armies of sanctification and glorification, referring to angels sent by God.
14. النُّعْمَان بن بشير : Al-Nu'man ibn Bashir, a companion of the Prophet.
15. جَابر : Jabir ibn 'Abd Allah, a companion known for his hospitality.
16. نصر الْحِجَارَة : A poetic expression: 'I helped the stones' may refer to the stones used in the trench or metaphorically to the polytheists' stubbornness.

The expedition against Banu Qurayza occurred in the fifth year of the Hijra [1].

(And I abstained from his garments, even if I were ... the one who would be stained by the impurity of my garments) (Do not think that Allah will forsake His religion ... and His Prophet, O confederates) And in this expedition, Ka'b ibn Malik says in verses: (The confederates knew, when they gathered ... against us and sought our religion, that we would not yield) (They drive us from our religion, and we drive them ... from disbelief, and the Most Merciful is seeing and hearing) (When they anger us in a station, we are aided ... against their anger by a victory from Allah that will come) (And that is Allah's preservation of us and His favor ... by generosity, and whoever Allah does not preserve is lost) Expedition of Banu Qurayza in the year five of the Hijra Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) set out against Banu Qurayza in Dhu al-Qa'dah after his return from the Trench, by command of the One who defeated the confederates alone, and he appointed 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum as his deputy. He gave his banner to 'Ali, the refuge of the beggar and the deprived. Then he marched to their fortresses with three thousand, and made them forget the pleasure of rest in the place of security, and besieged them for fifteen days, preventing them from finding any ease or knowing sleep. So they inclined to his peace and submitted to descend to his judgment. He brought out the women and children, detained the men, and collected the goods, weapons, livestock, and camels. Then he was asked to release them, but he chose to have Sa'd ibn Mu'adh arbitrate in this matter. When he came, he ruled that the men be killed, the property divided, and the women and children taken captive. Then the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) returned to Medina, where he had their necks struck, and divided their captives and wealth among the Muslims—I do not say their provisions. Their number was counted, and they were less than seven hundred men, and it was proclaimed to them in the language of rebuke: "This is the recompense of those who disbelieve." In this expedition, Hassan ibn Thabit says: (Qurayza met what they disliked ... and humiliation befell their fortress) (Sa'd had warned them sincerely ... that your Lord is a majestic God) (They did not cease breaking the covenant until ... the Messenger routed them in their land) (He drove against their fortress rows from us ... from the heat of their impact there was a clashing sound)

The expedition of Muhammad ibn Maslamah against the Qurtā’ of Banū Kilāb in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Muhammad ibn Maslamah against al-Qurṭā’ of Banū Kilāb in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet ﷺ sent him on the tenth of al-Muḥarram and equipped with him thirty horsemen, with whom the fire of war blazed and flared. They proceeded to the dwelling of al-Qurṭā’ in the region of Ḍariyya and confronted them with hearts stripped of doubt and suspicion. They killed a group of them, and the wretched remainder fled in fear and terror. They captured camels of beautiful necks and swift pace, and took as spoils sheep numbering three thousand. Then they returned to the Prophet ﷺ, who divided the spoils into fifths ¹ and distributed the rest among those who had come, with high resolve and strong determination. (When al-Qurṭā’ grew bold and transgressed, Muhammad ibn Maslamah came upon them. He drew the sword of truth in fighting them and returned distinguished with every honor.) The expedition of Banū Liḥyān in the sixth year of the Hijra. Then the Prophet ﷺ set out in the sixth year with two hundred men of knowledge and experience, appointing Ibn Umm Maktūm over Yathrib, resolved and trusting in God, the Lord of the east and the west. He went seeking vengeance for the blood of the people of al-Rajī‘ from Banū Liḥyān, and he prepared for the march until he reached Ghurān, a valley between Umaj and ‘Usfān. He saw the dwellings empty of them and the houses fallen upon their roofs. He dispatched his raiding parties to the areas of sand and hard ground, and stayed there for a time, but did not capture anyone from them, for they heard of him and clung to the ropes of the mountains and scattered among the mountain passes, ravines, and sands. Then he descended upon ‘Usfān to intimidate those in Mecca among those people, and then he returned to Medina, seeking refuge with God from the hardships of travel. Regarding this expedition, Ka‘b ibn Mālik says: (If Banū Liḥyān had faced us, they would have met a strong force in their abode, a truthful one. They would have met swift [horsemen] whose terror fills the saddle, before grinding mills like a galaxy, a crushing force. But they were like the people of Wabār ², pursued through the ravines of stones, with no place of refuge.)

1. khums : The one-fifth share of war booty that is set aside for God, the Prophet, his relatives, orphans, the poor, and the wayfarer, as prescribed in Qur’an 8:41.
2. Wabār : An ancient, extinct tribe or people in Arabia, often used as a proverbial example of those who perished due to their disobedience or inability to withstand attack.

The Expedition of Dhu Qarad occurred in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

The Expedition of Dhu Qarad in the sixth year of the Hijra ¹ Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, went out in the aforementioned month towards the direction of al-Ghaba ², accompanied by five hundred or more Companions, and appointed Ibn Umm Maktum ³ over Tayba ⁴. He wrapped himself in the mantles of valor, majesty, and awe, and marched against 'Uyayna ibn Hisn al-Fazari ⁵, who used to boast of the intensity of his disbelief and vie in it, when news reached him that he had mounted the horses of audacity and aggression and raided with forty horsemen the milch camels that belonged to him (the Prophet) at al-Ghaba. He found that they had driven them off and fled, thinking they had gained booty—no, by God, they incurred loss. Then a detachment went in pursuit of them to Dhu Qarad, overtook them, killed five of those who were bent on transgression, seized their horses and weapons, and recovered half of the camels they had taken. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, performed the Prayer of Fear ⁶ during this expedition, then returned to Medina, lofty in status, high in glory. In this expedition, Ka'b ibn Malik ⁷ said in some verses...

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. al-Ghaba : A wooded area near Medina, known as a grazing ground for the Prophet's camels.
3. Ibn Umm Maktum : A blind Companion of the Prophet, often appointed as governor of Medina during the Prophet's absences.
4. Tayba : Another name for Medina, meaning 'the good' or 'the pleasant'.
5. 'Uyayna ibn Hisn al-Fazari : A chieftain of the Banu Fazara tribe, initially an opponent of Islam who later converted.
6. Prayer of Fear : A shortened form of prayer performed during times of danger or battle, as prescribed in the Quran (4:101).
7. Ka'b ibn Malik : A Companion and poet of the Prophet, known for his role in the incident of the three who stayed behind from the Tabuk expedition.

The expedition of ʿUkāshah ibn Miḥṣan al-Asadī to al-Ghamr occurred in the sixth year of the Hijrah [1].

Do the sons of the bastard think that we... are not like them in horsemanship on horses? We are a people who do not consider killing a disgrace... nor do we turn away from the thrusting spears. We repel the seasoned warriors when they boast... with a strike that dispels the arrogance of the laggard. With every youth who protects the truth ¹, noble... generous, like the lion of the thicket, deceptive. They defend their honors and their lands... with white swords that cleave heads under helmets. Expedition of 'Ukasha ibn Mihsan al-Asadi to al-Ghamr in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the mentioned month and equipped with him forty of those desiring righteous deeds. He set out with them to al-Ghamr, which is a watering place of Banu Asad. When they arrived...

1. al-ḥaqīqa : The truth; in Sufi and Islamic contexts, it refers to the ultimate spiritual reality or the inner truth of faith.

The expedition of Muhammad ibn Maslamah to Dhu al-Qassah in the sixth year of the Hijrah [1].

They did not find it inhabited by anyone; they fled where the pursuit reached them and scattered for fear of swords and coats of mail ¹. So they drove away the cattle they saw and returned, overwhelmed with grace and blessings. (Those are the best of creation, O 'Ukasha ² ... proximity to him ³ is the gaze of every benefactor) (O seeker of high rank, stop and be deliberate ... 'Ukasha ibn Mihsan ⁴ has attained it) Expedition of Muhammad ibn Maslama ⁵ to Dhu al-Qissa ⁶ in the sixth year of the Hijra ⁷ The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the month of Rabi' al-Akhir ⁸ and equipped with him ten men of merit and glory. They went to the Banu Tha'laba ⁹ at Dhu al-Qissa, and a share—and what a share—had been allotted to them with the martyrs. When they came upon them on a pitch-black night, the people surrounded them—they were a hundred of the coarse Bedouins—and they attacked them, killed them, and prevented them from returning to their homelands; none escaped except Muhammad ibn Maslama, though he returned wounded in the company of a merciful man. (Congratulations to the people of martyrdom for what they saw of goodness in Paradise, piety, and bounty)

1. yalab : Coats of mail; armor worn in battle.
2. 'Ukasha : Companion of the Prophet, known for his piety and bravery; full name 'Ukasha ibn Mihsan al-Asadi.
3. qurban lahu : Proximity to the Prophet or to God; spiritual closeness.
4. 'Ukasha ibn Mihsan : Same as 'Ukasha; a prominent Companion.
5. Muhammad ibn Maslama : A Companion of the Prophet, known for his strength and participation in many expeditions.
6. Dhu al-Qissa : A location in the Arabian Peninsula, near Medina, where the Banu Tha'laba tribe resided.
7. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
8. Rabi' al-Akhir : The fourth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
9. Banu Tha'laba : A Bedouin tribe that opposed the Muslims during the time of the Prophet.

The expedition of Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to the Banu Tha'laba in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to the Banu Tha'laba in the sixth year of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him forty of his closest Companions. They traveled by night and dragged a tail ² to take revenge, until they reached Banu Tha'laba at dawn, determined not to raise sword or spear against them. But they [the enemy] escaped them by fleeing into the mountains and were defeated, not turning back for wealth or family. So they [the Muslims] took some of their livestock and goods, then returned safely to their homes and dwellings. Say to the aggressors of Banu Tha'laba, O you who have raided the hills like the fox's raid: Why did you not stand firm for the encounter until you saw the reality of destruction before the sought goal? The expedition of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Jumum ³ in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the aforementioned month, and with him were Muslims whose danger and rank were not hidden. They went to Banu Sulaym until they drew near to al-Jumum.

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. dragged a tail : A military tactic of dragging branches or similar objects to raise dust and deceive the enemy about the size of the force.
3. al-Jumum : A place name; a valley or region near Mecca.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to al-‘Is occurred in the sixth year of the Hijrah [1].

And it is a side whose bird hovers over the belly of a palm tree. They found it empty of its people, devoid of all polytheists, its events and its elders. And they saw in their dwellings livestock and captives. So they took the livestock and granted the captives after hardship ease. (To the belly of a palm tree Zayd journeyed, with him ... brave men, with a firm resolve against the eagle) (He scattered enemies, seized booty, and rescued the companions of the Prophet from captivity) The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to al-‘Is in the year six of the Hijrah. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Jumada al-Ula and poured upon him from the clouds of his bountiful hand, and equipped him with one hundred and seventy riders, by whom the stations are completed and the processions are adorned. He commanded them to seek a caravan of Quraysh that had come from Syria. So they marched to it and swooped down upon it like falcons upon pigeons. They took all the abundant silver that was in it and left nothing, small or large, that it contained. And they captured some of them, including Abu al-‘As ibn al-Rabi‘. Then they returned, enjoying the shade of lofty safety.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to al-Tarf occurred in the sixth year of the Hijrah [1].

Say to the son of Haritha, whose swords are renowned, not forgotten on the Day of al-‘Ays ¹. May God bless you, for you never ceased to be eager for the abandonment of the people of polytheism. The Expedition of Zayd ibn Haritha to al-Tarf ² in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the month mentioned, dispatching him perfumed with the fragrance of victory and success, with a favorable omen. He equipped him with fifteen men of resolve and experience, and ordered him to proceed to a watering place known as al-Tarf to raid the Banu Tha‘laba. He marched against them, raiding, and captured twenty camels from their livestock. The polytheists escaped him, fleeing into the lowlands of the Hijaz, where he could not pursue them. Then he returned to Medina with high status, driving the camels after an absence of four nights. How noble are the companions of Ahmad ³, who, wearing fine garments, hastened toward al-Tarf. They marched against the rebellious Tha‘laba and acquired livestock, a bliss for them in the gardens ⁴.

1. al-‘Ays : A place or battle; possibly a reference to a specific event or location in early Islamic history.
2. al-Tarf : A watering place or region in Arabia, the destination of Zayd ibn Haritha's expedition.
3. Ahmad : Another name for the Prophet Muhammad, meaning 'the most praised'.
4. gardens : Reference to Paradise or high stations in the afterlife.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to Ḥismā occurred in the sixth year of the Hijrah [1].

The expedition of Zayd ibn Ḥāritha to Ḥismā in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet ﷺ sent him in Jumādā al-Ākhira and dispatched him to Judhām with five hundred men of illustrious countenance, because they had confronted Dihya al-Kalbī, cut off his path, and treated him in a manner unbefitting by seizing his belongings and violating his sanctity. So they set out, with a guide from the tribe of ʿUdhra, until they attacked at dawn, each of them encountering what he disliked. They fell upon them by raiding them in the thicket of al-Ḥīra, killed their chief al-Hunayd ibn ʿĀriḍ and others, took their camels and sheep, and captured their children and women. Then Rifāʿa al-Judhāmī came to the Prophet ﷺ and presented to him his written covenant, which had been given to him and his people upon their earlier conversion. So the Prophet sent ʿAlī ibn Abī Ṭālib to return their property and to let them have their women and children back. He complied with the noble orders after restoring what had been taken to Dihya ibn Khalīfa. (From the Messenger to Judhām, regarding what ... the Companions had taken of their wealth) (And the Chosen One, how many a favor has appeared to him ... coupled with generosity and beneficence)

The expedition of Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf to Dumat al-Jandal in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of 'Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf to Dumat al-Jandal in the year six of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Sha'ban of the aforementioned year after having personally turbaned him with his own blessed hand, whose miracles are well-known, and commanded him to wage war against the people of disbelief and obstinacy, and forbade him from treachery, embezzlement ¹, and killing children. So he marched according to the command to the tribe of Kalb at Dumat al-Jandal, and stayed there calling [them] to Him whose praise the birds glorify ² and the nightingale ³. Then their chief, al-Asbagh ibn 'Amr, embraced Islam, and many of those who exchanged bitterness for sweetness ⁴ followed him. Then 'Abd al-Rahman married Tumadir bint al-Asbagh and returned, encompassed by the blessing of one who ruled justly and delivered an eloquent sermon. (Ibn 'Awf marched to Kalb with those with him... of the brave warriors, and when they submitted, they were safe.) (Their chief, the son of 'Amr, was their leader... to the path—by God, what spoils they gained!)

1. ghulul : Embezzlement or misappropriation of war booty before its proper distribution.
2. sabbaha bi-hamdihi al-tayr : Reference to Quran 21:79 and 38:18, where birds join David in glorifying God.
3. wa 'andal : The nightingale (bulbul), known for its melodious song, here symbolizing creation's praise of God.
4. al-mu'tadīn 'an al-burḍ bi-al-ghamr : A metaphorical expression: those who exchanged bitterness (al-burḍ, referring to disbelief or hardship) for sweetness (al-ghamr, referring to the abundance of faith or worldly benefits).

The expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to the Banu Sa'd in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

Expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to the Banu Sa'd in the sixth year of the Hijra ¹ The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him a hundred men who followed his opinion and relied upon him, as news had reached him that they intended to support the Jews and sought to aid those who concealed the truth and broke covenants. So he went, intending to strike the polytheists in their polytheism, and marched until he reached al-Ghamaj ², a watering place between Khaybar and Fadak. They heard of his coming, scattered, sensed his severity, fled, and dispersed. He then raided them, taking two thousand sheep and five hundred camels. He set aside the khums ³ and divided the rest among the commanded troops and the commander. Then he arrived in Medina, returning to his family safely and with spoils. (Go slowly, Banu Sa'd, for there has come to you... the lion of battle, the son of Abu Talib) (With a band of men, for whom the enemies have no... provision except the sharp sword and the piercing blade) (Woe to you! Each one of you will become... a fugitive, not catching up with the one who flees)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. al-Ghamaj : A location or watering place between Khaybar and Fadak, mentioned in early Islamic historical sources.
3. khums : The Islamic tax of one-fifth (20%) on spoils of war and certain other gains, to be distributed according to Islamic law.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to Wadi al-Qura in the year six of the Hijrah [1].

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to Wadi al-Qura in the sixth year of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him during the month of fasting ² and equipped with him a group of his Companions, providing them with provisions from a people. He marched with them to the Banu Badr of Fazara, intending secretly to take vengeance upon them and launch a raid against them. They had blocked his path at Wadi al-Qura, wounded him, and left him lying on the ground after taking his merchandise. So he came upon them with his company on a grim day and gave them cups of death—and what cups! They killed Umm Qirfah bint Rabi'ah ibn Badr and destroyed others who held high status among them. Then they returned, rejoicing in victory and delighted at overcoming those who denied and disbelieved. (O seeker of news about Umm Qirfah... in Wadi al-Qura, head there and ask about Banu Badr) (You will see the people lying slain amidst their homes... a recompense for the treachery they committed)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. month of fasting : Refers to Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.

The expedition of Abdullah ibn Atik against Ibn Abi al-Huqayq the Jew in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abdullah ibn Atik ¹ against Ibn Abi al-Huqayq ² the Jew in the sixth year of the Hijra ³. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him four men of renowned virtue, commanding them to kill Salam ibn Abi al-Huqayq. They set out towards him with the swiftness of lightning—and I do not say merely a flash. He had stirred up Ghatafan ⁴ and others, and pledged to his adversaries the provision of their stipends and supplies. They traveled secretly to his dwelling at night, taking with them neither servants nor horses, and devised a stratagem to enter his home—what a stratagem!—and Abdullah ibn Atik killed him, according to the most sound accounts. They departed until they concealed themselves in some irrigation channels, while the Jews searched for them until the seeker grew weary and the helper became exhausted. When they despaired, they returned and dispersed after having gathered.

1. Abdullah ibn Atik : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, known for his role in this expedition.
2. Ibn Abi al-Huqayq : Salam ibn Abi al-Huqayq, a Jewish leader who opposed the Muslims and was targeted for assassination.
3. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. Ghatafan : A powerful Arab tribe that often allied with the Jews against the Muslims.

The expedition of Abdullah ibn Rawaha against Usayr ibn Rizam the Jew in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

Then the Muslims returned to their families and companions, having succeeded in killing the enemy of Allah, the confederate of the Confederates ¹. Regarding his killing and the killing of Ka'b ibn al-Ashraf, Hassan ibn Thabit said in some verses: "By God, what a company you met, O son of al-Huqayq, and you, O son of al-Ashraf, They hasten to you with gleaming white swords, advancing like lions in a deep lair, Seeking insight to support the religion of their Prophet, calling for help in every overwhelming matter." Expedition of 'Abdullah ibn Rawaha to Usayr ibn Rizam the Jew, in the sixth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him to Usayr in Shawwal, with thirty men who did not care about the consequences in war nor about the saddlebags, when he learned that he had ordered after peace and that he was gathering enemies of the religion and opponents of Islam.

1. al-Ahzab : The Confederates: refers to the coalition of tribes that attacked Medina in the Battle of the Trench (5 AH).

The expedition of Karz ibn Jabir al-Fihri against the ‘Urayniyyin in the year six of the Hijra [1].

So they went to him, seeking him and drawing near to him, and they employed him against Khaybar and counted him. He went out with them among thirty Jewish riders, but then regretted on the way and inclined to aversion. When their deceit became apparent to the Muslims and their treachery was clear to those of understanding, they brandished swords against them, filled for them the sources of death, and uprooted them, not one of them escaping. Then they returned rejoicing in victory over the disbeliever and the denier. (When a captive transgressed... the Companions went to him) (And in the punishment of the deserts... they brought him his torment) (And his clan, they made them drink... the drink of death) (And the truth, whoever deviates from it... the sword was its answer) Expedition of Kurz ibn Jabir al-Fihri against the `Urayniyyun in the year six of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the month mentioned at the beginning, and equipped with him twenty horsemen, guardians of the religion with his blade and his victory, and commanded them to seek eight men from `Urayna who had embraced Islam and whom he had left among his milch camels, so that God might remove the affliction of each of them and their disgrace.

The expedition of 'Amr ibn Umayyah al-Damari to Abu Sufyan in the year six of the Hijra [1].

When they sobered up, they treacherously attacked the milk camels and mutilated his servant Yasar until he died under torture. So the horsemen set out in pursuit of them, and emerged to Dhu al-Jidr like fierce lions. They caught up with them, besieged them, surrounded them, and captured them. They brought them before the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, while he was at al-Ghaba. He cut off their hands and feet, gouged out their eyes, and crucified them in the presence of the Companions. (By Allah, you and your young men... followed you, O Karz ibn Jabir) (You seized the enemies of the Prophet... Muhammad, Lord of virtues) (And you attended the masters of obscenity... and captured every treacherous one among them) (With a sandal strap of blessings in... the abode of permanence with the great ones) Expedition of 'Amr ibn Umayya al-Damari to Abu Sufyan in the year six of the Hijra The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, sent him to Mecca in the aforementioned month, and sent with him Salama ibn Aslam, may Allah be pleased with him, and ordered them to kill Abu Sufyan, because of what he had heard about him at that time of tyranny.

The Expedition of al-Hudaybiyya in the sixth year of the Hijra [1].

He had prepared a man from the Bedouins to assassinate him, mounted him on a camel, and gave him provisions for himself and his family. When the man who came for no good approached, Usayd ibn al-Hudayr seized him and he recounted the story. Then 'Amr ibn Umayyah entered Mecca with firm resolve and cast aside his doubt. Quraysh sensed his presence and sought him out, gathering against him for fear of his killing. He fled, then returned to Medina after killing three and capturing one. ('Amr al-Damari came to Mecca with hidden intent ... to kill a man who harmed the Prophet Muhammad) (He roamed through the land, fearing not the enemies ... and returned to the Messenger, supported) The Expedition of al-Hudaybiyya, year six of the Hijra. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out in Dhu al-Qa'da for the 'Umra, summoning his companions who followed his word and obeyed his command. He appointed 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum over Medina and proceeded with one thousand four hundred, steadfast in obedience to the Living, the Eternal. He carried only the arms of a traveler and did not intend war against any polytheist or disbeliever. He drove seventy sacrificial camels, entered the state of ihram, and recited the talbiya, clarifying his law and practices. He traveled shaded by clouds of blessings until he drew near al-Hudaybiyya, which is at the edge of the sacred territory. Quraysh learned of his departure with his noble companions and resolved to prevent him from entering the Sacred Mosque. They hastened to gather men and went out prepared for battle, donning leopard skins, deluded by the Deceiver. They sent word to him forbidding entry into their sanctuary, after he had informed them that he had come only for pilgrimage, not for war. Then a peace treaty was concluded between them on the condition of laying down arms for ten full years, and that he would depart from them and then enter upon them the following year. In this expedition occurred the Pledge of Ridwan, the Fear Prayer was established for fear of the oppressors and aggressors, Sura al-Fath was revealed, the miracle of water gushing from the dry well appeared, and Allah sent down tranquility upon His Messenger and the believers. When he (peace be upon him) finished, he sacrificed his offering and shaved his head, then returned to Medina. (Turn aside to the land of al-Hudaybiyya, which ... was honored by the footstep of the Master of Beings) (It is where the Prophet prayed the Fear ... Prayer, fearing the aggressors) (And in it tranquility descended, and he ascended ... from the place of the Pledge of Ridwan)

The Expedition of Khaybar in the year seven of the Hijra [1].

The Expedition of Khaybar in the seventh year of the Hijra ¹ Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in Jumada al-Ula ² towards Khaybar, appearing with his army, which surpassed every other army in the excellence of its qualities. He appointed Siba' ibn 'Urfuta al-Ghifari ³ as his deputy, and they marched to war against those who dispute the truth and argue obstinately, until they encamped in their courtyard and brought forth their denial and restlessness. He admonished the people, distributed the banners, and entrusted his standard to the possessor of the signs ⁴. The Muslims exerted themselves in their fighting and were thorough in their combat, not in their disputation. They humiliated them, killed their nobles, brought them down from their fortresses ⁵, seized them by their necks and forelocks, and besieged their fortresses for a period, forcing them to plunge into the punishment of distress and hardship. They opened several fortresses for them, took possession of the guarded wealth that was in them, and gained spoils and captives. They extracted what was hidden in the corners of the treasures. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, responded to their request and made a treaty with them and the people of Fadak ⁶ on the condition of half of their property. In this expedition, he married Safiyya ⁷, forbade the eating of the meat of domestic donkeys, and in it the Jewish woman who had gifted him the poisoned sheep was killed. He also forbade the sale of spoils that had not yet been divided. When he finished with the matter of Khaybar, he divided the spoils, then returned to Medina with banners raised high and resolutions firmly set. In this expedition, Ka'b ibn Malik ⁸ said in some verses: "And we came to Khaybar and its outskirts, with every youth bare-armed, repelling [the enemy], Generous at the goals, not weak in strength, running against the enemies in every battle, Great in the ash of the pot ⁹ every winter, striking with the blade of the Indian sword, He sees killing as praise if he attains martyrdom, hoping for it from God and success through Ahmad ¹⁰." And in it, Ibn al-Qayyim al-'Absi ¹¹ said in some verses: "And every fortress was occupied by their horses, from the clan of al-Ashhal ¹² or the Banu al-Najjar ¹³."

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Jumada al-Ula : The fifth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
3. Siba' ibn 'Urfuta al-Ghifari : A companion of the Prophet Muhammad, appointed as governor of Medina during the expedition.
4. possessor of the signs : Refers to 'Ali ibn Abi Talib, known for his knowledge and miracles.
5. fortresses : Literally 'their strongholds' (ṣiyāṣī), referring to the Jewish fortresses of Khaybar.
6. Fadak : A Jewish settlement near Khaybar, which surrendered peacefully and was treated similarly.
7. Safiyya : Safiyya bint Huyayy, a Jewish noblewoman captured at Khaybar, whom the Prophet married.
8. Ka'b ibn Malik : A companion and poet of the Prophet Muhammad.
9. ash of the pot : A metaphor for generosity, indicating abundant food and hospitality.
10. Ahmad : Another name of the Prophet Muhammad.
11. Ibn al-Qayyim al-'Absi : A poet from the tribe of 'Abs, not to be confused with the scholar Ibn al-Qayyim.
12. al-Ashhal : A clan of the Khazraj tribe in Medina.
13. Banu al-Najjar : A clan of the Khazraj tribe, to which the Prophet's maternal grandfather belonged.

The expedition of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab to Hawazin in the year seven of the Hijra [1].

The tails swept through its flat ground, leaving nothing ... but the roosters crowing at dawn. Expedition of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab to Hawazin in the seventh year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Sha'ban and ordered him to proceed to the soil of the road to Sana'a and Najran. He set out with thirty men prepared for battle, accompanied by a noble guide from the Banu Hilal. He would traverse the deserts with his expertise, travel with them by night, and hide by day, until they arrived at the settlements of Hawazin. But they had already fled, having been warned about their positions. When they found no trace of them, they returned to Medina, reciprocating the favor with gratitude. (Hawazin fled from meeting a company ... in which there was one who traveled by piety, known for virtue) (I mean Ibn al-Khattab, and sufficient as a speaker ... with the tongue of a sword whose admonition is described)

The expedition of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq to Fazara in the year seven of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq to Fazara in the seventh year of the Hijra. The Prophet ﷺ sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him a group of his Companions, whose deeds were praiseworthy and whose actions were commendable. They set out, determined to fight Fazara, resolved to meet the polytheists with consolation, not glad tidings. When they drew near them, they launched a sudden attack upon them at their watering place, hastening through the sand toward them until they stained them with their blood, and they took captive women from their offspring, surrounded their boys and maid-servants, then returned, leaving their slain lying dead on the ground. (Is there anyone from Fazara to inform of what they encountered... from the sharp swords of the expedition of al-Siddiq?) (They set for them the snare of destruction and shot them... after gathering their community, with separation.)

The expedition of Bashir ibn Sa'd al-Ansari to Fadak in the seventh year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Bashir ibn Sa'd al-Ansari to Fadak in the year seven of the Hijra. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him thirty men from those accepted by him, and commanded them to proceed to the Banu Murra. They set out, hoping to gain victory. When they reached Fadak, they found them in their valleys and saw their cattle and sheep grazing in their valleys. They drove them away and left, but their owners caught up with them and overcame them after they exchanged arrows. Then they returned with Bashir wounded by the arrows of the people of misguidance. (By God, a people who went to Fadak... guiding the people of misguidance to righteousness) (They fought them while they followed error... and faced them with the faces of numbers) (Bashir was wounded by the straps of the wound in... the essence of God, the Dominant, the Eternal).

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ʿAbd Allāh al-Laythī to al-Mīfaʿa in the year seven of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ʿAbd Allāh al-Laythī to al-Mīfaʿa in the year seven of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the month of fasting and equipped with him one hundred and thirty men, whom no blame could deter in God's cause. They marched to Thaʿlaba at al-Mīfaʿa, and through their journey they obtained reward and benefit. They fell upon them like a torrent, killed those who engaged them in skirmish, plundered their camels and sheep, turned away from hearing their words and answering their call, then returned rejoicing with the spoils, glad at having raided those who stumbled in the darkness of polytheism. (The expedition of Ghālib prevailed and brought joy to hearts with safety and booty. Glad tidings for them in the Garden of Eden, with overflowing grace and abundant blessings.)

The 'Umrah of Qada' [1] took place in the seventh year of the Hijra [2].

So they marched vigorously in travel and night journey until they dismounted with their weapons near Wadi al-Qura. The polytheists heard of their pursuit and search, so they scattered and fled to the highlands of their land. They [the Muslims] drove away such a number of their cattle as the pen could hardly count, and captured two men from them, returning with them and the cattle. (Bashir ibn Sa'd, your star is shining, and your arrow remains exalted and rightly guided. To Ghatafan you traveled in a day, obedient to the best of mankind; rejoice in what you desire tomorrow.) The 'Umrah of Fulfillment in the year 7 AH. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out in Dhu al-Qa'dah for 'Umrah, and commanded those who had been present at al-Hudaybiyyah to fulfill the 'Umrah from which they had been prevented, apologizing. They responded to his command, and they were two thousand men. He appointed Abu Ruhm al-Ghifari as his deputy over Medina, and set out after assuming ihram from the door of the mosque, among fierce lions, driving sixty sacrificial camels and leading one hundred horses. He sent forward the horses, the sacrificial animals, and the weapons, guarded by sentries. He proceeded in a state of ihram, reciting the talbiyah, until he camped at Marr az-Zahran. Quraysh left Mecca when they heard of the arrival of the master of the sons of 'Adnan. Then he mounted his she-camel al-Qaswa', with the Muslims surrounding him, and continued reciting the talbiyah until he entered through the pass that leads to al-Hajun. He did not cease reciting the talbiyah until he touched the Black Stone with his crooked staff, wearing his cloak draped under his right arm, and performed the circumambulation on his mount. Everyone followed his action in circumambulation. Then he performed the sa'y between Safa and Marwa, sacrificed, and shaved his head there, and the people imitated him. Then he married Maymunah bint al-Harith al-Hilaliyyah, and entrusted to Ja'far the care of 'Umarah bint Hamzah al-Hashimiyyah, his uncle's daughter. He stayed in Mecca for three days, then departed on the fourth and camped at Sarif, after being told by Quraysh, "Your term has expired, so leave." Then he set out before dawn for the abode of his emigration and returned, supported by Allah's victory, after fulfilling his 'Umrah. Concerning this, 'Abdullah ibn Rawahah said, while holding the halter of the she-camel of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him): "Leave, O sons of the disbelievers, his path; leave, for all good is in His Messenger. O Lord, I believe in his words; I acknowledge the right of Allah in accepting him."

The expedition of Ibn Abi al-Awja' al-Sulami to Banu Sulaym in the seventh year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Ibn Abi al-'Awja' al-Sulami to Banu Sulaym in the seventh year of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him in Dhu al-Hijja ² and equipped with him fifty men, whom neither cold nor fatigue ³ could deter from the enemy. They ascended to Banu Sulaym in the stealth of travel, while birds of martyrdom ⁴ circled over them—how noble a bird! When they reached them, they saw them in a great multitude, and both the commanded ⁵ among them and the commander ⁶ had prepared for battle. They exchanged arrows, the heat of battle blazed, and the polytheists surrounded them from every side. They fought until most of the people of the lofty Paradise ⁷ were killed. (They turned, and the son of Abi al-'Awja', their leader, went to Sulaym, but they did not return nor come back.) (They were martyred, not singly—what a people they were, who reaped in the gardens of eternity what they had sown.)

1. sariyya : A military expedition sent by the Prophet Muhammad, typically smaller than a ghazwa (campaign led by the Prophet himself).
2. Dhu al-Hijja : The twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which the Hajj pilgrimage takes place.
3. qurra wa la ijha : Qurra means cold; ijha is a term for extreme fatigue or exhaustion. The phrase emphasizes their resilience.
4. tayr al-shahada : Literally 'birds of martyrdom'; a poetic reference to angels or souls of martyrs, or omens of martyrdom.
5. al-ma'mur : The one commanded; here referring to the enemy troops who were ordered to fight.
6. al-amir : The commander; the leader of the enemy forces.
7. ahl al-janna al-'aliya : People of the lofty Paradise; a reference to the martyrs who attained Paradise.

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ʿAbd Allāh al-Laythī to Banī al-Mulawwaḥ in the year eight of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ‘Abd Allāh al-Laythī to Banī al-Mulawwaḥ in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in Ṣafar ¹ and equipped with him a number of his blessed Companions, commanding them to launch a sudden raid against Banī al-Mulawwaḥ and to hasten to seize their weapons and insignia. They marched until they drew near al-Kadīd ² and proceeded, exulting in the garments of victory and divine support. They lay in ambush in a part of the valley, awaiting the attainment of glory from the people of the settlement. Then they launched the raid against them and drove off the livestock they had. The enemy followed their tracks, seeking to harm them. But when they caught up with them, a flood ³ came between them, and they returned, separated: one party with gain, and the other with ruin. (By God, Ghālib who overcame the enemies, by force, and won, through guidance, blessings. When he came to the people of al-Kadīd against them, he launched the raid, then returned with the spoils.)

1. Ṣafar : The second month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
2. al-Kadīd : A place near Mecca, about 80 miles from Medina, known for its valley.
3. flood : A sudden torrent or flash flood that blocked the enemy's pursuit.

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ʿAbd Allāh al-Laythī to Fadak in the year eight of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Ghālib ibn ʿAbd Allāh al-Laythī to Fadak in the year eight of the Hijra. The Prophet ﷺ sent him in the aforementioned month. He equipped with him two hundred men, aided by God and victorious. They set out, obeying the command of the one who signals for war against the enemy, until they reached the dwellings of the people, not fearing in God the blame of any blamer. They raided them at dawn, seeking in their slaughter abundant reward, and drove off the livestock they had, and were victorious. Then they returned, rejoicing in victory over those who disbelieved. (The expedition of Ghālib set out ... towards the enemies to Fadak) (And they varied in their killing ... when they struck them down in polytheism) (This is the recompense of those who transgress ... wrongfully and did not fear the abyss).

The expedition of Shujāʿ ibn Wahb al-Asadī to Hawāzin in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Shujāʿ ibn Wahb al-Asadī to Hawāzin in the year eight of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the year eight and equipped with him twenty-four believers, the Knower of the secret and the manifest ¹, and commanded them to go to Hawāzin and raid the deficient among them and the balanced ². So they headed towards the mine ³, the place of their gathering, and drew near to them, observing their low and high ⁴. Then they caught them off guard, attacked their cattle with a single attack, and drove away a number of camels, returning joyful with the spoils and a good outcome. (Do not ask the riders about Hawāzin ... and what they suffered from the cunning of the masters of guidance ⁵) (What is the state of the ignorant ⁶ who do not know what is good for them ... when there came to them a brave man from Asad) The expedition of Kaʿb ibn ʿUmayr al-Ghifārī to Dhāt Aṭlāḥ in Syria in the year eight of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him fifteen men.

1. ʿālim al-sirr wa-l-ʿalāniya : The Knower of the hidden and the manifest; a divine attribute referring to God's omniscience.
2. al-nāqiṣ minhum wa-l-wāzin : Literally 'the deficient and the balanced'; possibly a poetic or idiomatic expression meaning 'all of them, both the weak and the strong' or 'the sinners and the righteous'.
3. al-maʿdin : The mine; a place name or a reference to a specific location where the tribe gathered.
4. khafḍahum wa-rafʿahum : Their low and high; meaning their situation, both humble and exalted, or their movements.
5. arbāb al-rushd : Masters of guidance; possibly referring to the leaders of Hawāzin or to the Prophet and his companions.
6. aghmār : Ignorant or inexperienced people; those lacking knowledge or foresight.

The expedition of Zayd ibn Harithah to Mu'tah in al-Sham in the eighth year of the Hijrah [1].

The news of each of them became good, and their affair was commanded to march to Dhat Atlah ¹, whose people know the path that guides to righteousness. So they marched until they reached it as commanded, and there they found a crowd treading on embers in their error. They called them to Islam, but they refused and moved from speech to battle, and they poured forth. The Muslims came out, charged, and exerted themselves in fighting until they were killed, and none survived except one whom wounds clung to the ground, then he struggled back to Medina to report what had happened. (For God is Ka'b and those who faced the enemy with him... they pluck the fruits of destruction at Dhat Atlah) (They attained martyrdom and turned to a dwelling... in the Garden of Eternity, full of spirit and repose) Expedition of Zayd ibn Haritha to Mu'ta ² in Syria, in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in Jumada al-Ula ³, and tied for him a banner—how far it reached in both abodes!—and reinforced him with Ja'far ibn Abi Talib and 'Abdullah ibn Rawaha, and equipped with him three thousand Muslims, whose religion each acknowledges morning and evening, and commanded them to call to Islam and fight those who did not obey after warning and notification, and emphasized the testament to them, and went out to see them off at the hill. The Muslims marched until they camped at Ma'an ⁴, then proceeded to Mu'ta, a village in al-Balqa ⁵ at a certain place. They had heard that Heraclius had drawn near and approached with an army exceeding one hundred thousand Romans and Arabs, so they hesitated and recoiled, then advanced and relied on God, and there came to them what no one could withstand in terms of cavalry, equipment, numbers, and count. The two parties met, the two paths diverged, the battle raged, even the monk and priest came forth, the matter became severe, the Muslims trod on embers, the enemy unleashed their swords and spears, and Zayd, Ja'far, and 'Abdullah ibn Rawaha were killed. Then the people withdrew with Khalid ibn al-Walid, while the defeated enemy pursued them. So those who attained divine pleasure went on, and the angels received them with acceptance. Regarding the martyrs of Mu'ta, Hassan ibn Thabit said in verses: (May God not distance the slain who came successively... at Mu'ta, among them the one with two wings, Ja'far) (And Zayd and 'Abdullah when they followed one another... all together, while the causes of death loomed) (And we saw in Ja'far from Muhammad... loyalty and decisive resolve when he commands) (And he never ceased in Islam, from the clan of Hashim... pillars of might that never falter, and glory) And Ka'b ibn Malik said about them in verses: (Sorrow visited me, so I spent the night as if... entrusted with the Pleiades and the Arrow) (In a night that came upon me with its cares... sometimes I rave, and sometimes I toss) (Longing for the men who followed one another... on a day at Mu'ta, they leaned and did not flee) (May God bless them, a band of youths... and may the veiling clouds water their bones)

1. Dhat Atlah : A place name; 'Atlah' refers to a type of tree (acacia or tamarisk).
2. Mu'ta : A village in the Balqa region of Syria (modern-day Jordan), site of a famous battle in 629 CE.
3. Jumada al-Ula : The fifth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
4. Ma'an : A town in modern-day Jordan, historically a stop on the pilgrimage route.
5. al-Balqa : A region in Syria (modern-day Jordan), east of the Jordan River.

The expedition of 'Amr ibn al-'As to Dhat al-Salasil occurred in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of 'Amr ibn al-'As to Dhat al-Salasil in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Jumada al-Akhira and appointed for him a banner that soared above the shining stars, and equipped him with three hundred of the elite of the Emigrants and Helpers. He set out for Dhat al-Salasil, traveling by night and hiding by day. When he drew near the people and heard of their abundant numbers, he asked the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, to reinforce him with a detachment of troops. The Prophet answered his request upon receiving the news and reinforced him with Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah at the head of two hundred, among whom were Abu Bakr and 'Umar. They united in sound counsel and marched, terrifying the enemy with their strong armor, until they trod the land of the Banu 'Udwa and others of those regions, and subdued those in the vicinity of Wadi al-Qura ¹ who were people of polytheism and obstinacy. Then they returned to Medina safely, saying, 'Praise be to God, Lord of the worlds.' (Indeed, the Merciful sanctified the secret of an expedition whose steeds swam through Dhat al-Salasil. Blessed ones, how many a host they vanquished, and how many a noble steed they protected with the tips of spears and swords.)

1. Wadi al-Qura : A valley north of Medina, known for its Jewish settlements and fertile land.

The expedition of Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to the coast of the sea in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah to the seacoast in the year eight of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the month of Rajab and ordered him to go to the aforementioned tribes of the Arabs. He equipped him with three hundred men from the Muhajirun ² and Ansar ³, among them 'Umar. They marched to a clan of Juhayna ⁴ at al-Qabaliyya, complying with the command. On the way, they suffered severe hunger, so they ate al-khabt ⁵ as a substitute for tharid ⁶. Then matters improved for them afterward, and they ate the camel that Qays ibn Sa'd had slaughtered for them. The sea cast up a fish for them, and due to its size, they made it their sustenance for that period. Then they returned without any conflict, having gained game from both land and sea. (Excellent is the blessed company, in their march toward the enemy, they ate al-khabt.) (They endured the hardship of jihad and persevered, out of love for Him who came with justice and did not deviate.) (May God's blessings be upon him continuously, as long as a star rises to the midst of the sky and descends.)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Muhajirun : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.
3. Ansar : The inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet and the Muhajirun after the Hijra.
4. Juhayna : A large Arab tribe, some of whom were hostile to the Muslims at that time.
5. al-khabt : Leaves of the arak tree (Salvadora persica) ground and mixed with water, used as a famine food.
6. tharid : A dish of bread soaked in broth, a common meal in early Islamic times.

The expedition of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Khadra in Najd in the year eight of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Khadra in Najd in the year eight of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in Sha'ban ² and equipped with him fifteen men from his Companions to Ghatafan ³, and commanded him to march against them and raid them. So he went, complying with the order, striving in the march until he descended with those with him upon a large settlement of theirs, and they surrounded them as the leaders surround the debtor, and they captured many prisoners and drove off two thousand sheep and two hundred camels, and killed those who fought them, and wounded those who wounded them or resisted them. Then they gathered the spoils they had obtained, took out the khums ⁴, and distributed the rest among the shares. Then they returned with the livestock and the camels. Their absence was twelve days and three days. (The Companions marched towards Najd against the enemy, And Abu Qatada was the commander in the journey.) (O neighbor, ask Ghatafan what they witnessed From the strike of swords that have a screeching sound.) (Indeed, those who turned away from guidance, In every battle they face destruction.)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Sha'ban : The eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
3. Ghatafan : A powerful Arab tribe in Najd, often in conflict with the early Muslims.
4. khums : The one-fifth share of war booty that is set aside for God, the Prophet, his relatives, orphans, the needy, and travelers, as prescribed in the Quran.

The expedition of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Batn Idam in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Abu Qatada al-Ansari to Batn Idam in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him at the beginning of Ramadan to Batn Idam, and equipped with him eight of his Companions, whose luminous presence dispelled the darkness of the night. This was when he intended to raid the people of Mecca and resolved to meet them with champions, horses, and weaponry, so that it would be thought that he was heading to that region, and the news of this dissimulation ¹ would reach those of weak intellect. So they went to the aforementioned area but did not encounter anyone from the misguided factions ², so they returned, obediently listening to the command and submitting. (Abu Qatada set out, complying with the commands of the Guide, to Batn Idam) (With young men who surpassed, in their desire to precede, the companions of the best of Arabs and non-Arabs) (May God bless him as long as there remains, on a proud nose, a constant fragrance of loftiness)

1. tawriya : A rhetorical device or stratagem involving double meaning or concealment of intent; here, a military feint.
2. al-firaq al-ma'zura : Literally 'the blamed sects'; refers to those who have deviated from the truth, often used for polytheists or opponents.

The expedition of the people of Mecca and the conquest in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition against the people of Mecca and the matter of the conquest in the eighth year of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out ten days into the month of fasting ¹, resolved to strive in the path of the One who is exalted above sleep and slumber. He appointed 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum ² as his deputy and concealed the spoken command by implication to hide the matter. He summoned the people of war and battle, and sought reinforcements from the surrounding Arab tribes. Then he marched with ten thousand fighters to tread upon the deceivers of Quraysh and the schemers, since they had transgressed the bounds of the limits and broken the covenants between him and them, drawn the sword of treachery from its sheath, and fought Khuza'a ³, who had entered into his covenant, as if they regretted it—but regret did not avail them. Abu Sufyan came to renew their covenant, but returned saying, "Oh, the slip of the foot!" The Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, proceeded, and he made clear to those fasting the concession of breaking the fast while traveling, and he taught. When he reached Qudayd ⁴, he verified the means and distributed the banners and flags to the tribes. He continued until he camped at Marr az-Zahran ⁵ and ordered the army that night to light fires. When he approached Mecca, his uncle al-'Abbas went ahead and met Abu Sufyan, who was seeking news of the people. He brought him to the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, along with Budayl ibn Warqa' and Hakim ibn Hizam. They embraced Islam before him and attained the abundant generosity that was with him. Then he took Abu Sufyan to the narrow pass of the valley, where he saw from the armies of God what the present and the absent could not encompass. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, entered in his battalion, which illuminated eyes with its greenness, riding his she-camel al-Qaswa' ⁶, surrounded by the Muhajirun and Ansar. When he reached Dhu Tuwa ⁷, he stood humbly before his Lord and assigned to each banner holder a direction by which to enter with his companions. Then he went until he camped at its highest point and settled, rejoicing in the blessings he had obtained and acquired. Mecca was conquered—according to the sounder of the two opinions—by treaty, and he forbade his troops from fighting, pardoning and forgiving. When the people were at ease, he circumambulated the House seven times, touched the Black Stone, entered the Ka'ba, prayed therein, and ordered the obliteration of the images that were in it. Around it were idols fastened with lead, and he began to point at them, and they fell down when there was no time for escape. He stood at its door, proclaimed the oneness of God, recited some of the Qur'an, and gave permission to Bilal to announce the call to prayer on its roof. He shortened the prayer during his stay there and sent expeditions to places in its vicinity. He remained, setting matters right and establishing conditions, until he left for Hunayn in the early part of Shawwal ⁸. Regarding this expedition, al-'Abbas ibn Mirdas says in some verses: "From us, in Mecca on the day of Muhammad's conquest, / A thousand flowing through the valleys, marked. They supported the Messenger and witnessed his days, / Their emblem on the day of encounter was 'Muqaddam' ⁹. In a dwelling where their feet were firm, / Narrow, as if skulls therein were jars. Their horses' hooves had run in Najd before, / Until the black stones were led in submission." And regarding it, someone says in some verses: "In Mecca, when we came as if our banner / Was an eagle intending after soaring to snatch. Upon the eyes' pupils, you would think among them, / When it turned in its sockets, a scent. On the morning we trod the polytheists, we found / No deviation or turning from the command of God's Messenger. With white swords that stir skulls from their resting places / And sever the necks of brave warriors with a cut." And regarding it, someone says in some verses: "O best of those who ride the mount and who walk / Upon the dust, when souls are counted. Indeed, we fulfilled what you covenanted with us, / While horses bite and gnash at the brave. Until we reached the people of Mecca at dawn as a host / Gray, led by the frowning hero. From every sturdy man of Sulaym, above him / A white helmet, well-jointed, with a crest. He attacks the battalion, marked, and in his hand / A sharp sword that cuts with it, and a long thrusting spear." And regarding it, Bujayr ibn Zuhayr ibn Abi Sulma says in some verses: "We struck them in Mecca on the day of the Prophet's conquest / The righteous with white swords. And we returned victorious, having attained our desire, / And they returned regretful over the dissent."

1. shahr as-siyam : The month of fasting, i.e., Ramadan.
2. 'Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum : A blind companion of the Prophet, often appointed as governor of Medina during the Prophet's absences.
3. Khuza'a : An Arab tribe allied with the Muslims, whose conflict with Quraysh led to the conquest of Mecca.
4. Qudayd : A location between Mecca and Medina.
5. Marr az-Zahran : A valley near Mecca, about 20 miles from the city.
6. al-Qaswa' : The name of the Prophet's she-camel.
7. Dhu Tuwa : A place near Mecca, close to the city.
8. Shawwal : The tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
9. Muqaddam : A battle cry or slogan, meaning 'the foremost' or 'the one who advances'.

The expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to al-Uzza in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

And we gave the Messenger of God ¹ from us ... our covenants for good mutual harmony. In it, Fadala ibn 'Umayr al-Laythi says: (She said: Come to the discourse, but I said no ... God and Islam forbid you. If you had come to Muhammad and his tribe ... with victory on the day the idols were broken, you would have seen the religion of God become clear among us, while polytheism's face is covered by darkness.) The expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to al-'Uzza ² in the year eight of the Hijra ³. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him after the conquest in Ramadan, with thirty horsemen whose sun and moon illuminate the two epochs ⁴. He set out to Nakhlah ⁵ to demolish al-'Uzza. By my life, he gained honor and might through its demolition. It was among the greatest idols of Kinana ⁶, and the Banu Shayban from Sulaym ⁷ had the custodianship over it.

1. Rasul Allah : Messenger of God, referring to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. al-'Uzza : A pre-Islamic Arabian goddess, one of the three chief goddesses of Mecca, associated with fertility and worshipped as a tree or stone.
3. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. al-milawan : The two epochs or the two moons, a poetic expression referring to day and night, or the sun and moon.
5. Nakhlah : A valley near Mecca, known for its palm trees, where the idol al-'Uzza was located.
6. Kinana : A major Arab tribe from which the Quraysh descended, residing in the Tihama region near Mecca.
7. Banu Shayban min Sulaym : A sub-tribe of the larger Sulaym tribe, who were custodians of the idol al-'Uzza.

The expedition of Amr ibn al-As to Suwa' in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

When he demolished it and returned, he ordered a return to it. He came to it a second time, enraged at it. A naked black woman with disheveled hair, furious, came out to him. He cut her in two with his sword prepared for flogging. After that, he despaired that she would be worshipped in that land. In the campaign of Khalid against it, its custodian al-Sulami said: "O 'Uzzā, tighten a grip that has no slack against Khalid, throw off the veil and bare yourself. O 'Uzzā, if you do not kill the man Khalid, then prepare for a swift sin or be victorious." The expedition of 'Amr ibn al-'Āṣ to Suwā' in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the mentioned month, along with a group of people of sound speech and praiseworthy effort. He set out to demolish the idol of Hudhayl known as Suwā'. When he reached it, he leaped upon it like a fierce lion. The custodian warned him and frightened him with the power of its inhabitant, but he paid no attention to his words and dismantled its structure with pickaxes, reducing it to rubble. Then he returned after leveling it with the dust.

The expedition of Sa'd ibn Zayd al-Ash'ali to Manat in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

If you come to Hudhayl, say to them... O woe to a person who leans towards stones. Suwa' has become, with pickaxes, a ruin, destroyed, and the devotion of the custodian did not avail him. The expedition of Sa'd ibn Zayd al-Ash'ali to Manat in the year eight of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him twenty horsemen following him in what he undertook. He marched with them to Manat at al-Mushallal, which was an idol worshipped by Ghassan and others, and venerated. When he reached it, a woman came out to him with disheveled hair, black complexion, naked, calling for destruction and woe, and she was beating her chest excessively. He killed her with a killing that was known, and he did not deviate. He broke the idol and demolished the house, then departed. Manat was doomed by a blow that made her wretched, from the hand of Sa'd, son of Zayd al-Ash'ali. O Ghassan, when did the sun of guidance appear to you from the horizon of the companions of the Prophet, the Messenger?

The expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to the Banu Judhaymah in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to Banu Judhayma in the eighth year of the Hijra. The Prophet ¹ sent him in Shawwal ² with three hundred and fifty men, commanding him to call them to Islam without fighting. He marched to Banu Judhayma in the region of Yalamlam ³, proceeding with his sword drawn—a resolve that neither falters nor dulls. When he reached them, they professed Islam and claimed that they had established prayer and believed in the Prophet ¹. However, he disapproved of their carrying swords and holding spears, and did not accept their excuse of fearing the enemy as the reason for bearing arms. Instead, he ordered their execution after they had been captured, killing some and taking others as captives. When the Prophet ¹ learned of what had happened, he disavowed before God what Khalid had done and sent Ali ⁴ to pay blood money for their slain and compensate for their lost property. Then Ali departed after having satisfied them and rectified their situation. Concerning this expedition, one of Banu Judhayma said in verse: "Had not the people said to the people, 'Submit,' / Then Sulaym ⁵ would have met a goring one after that."

1. النَّبِي : The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.
2. شَوَّال : Shawwal is the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
3. يَلَمْلَم : Yalamlam is a location near Mecca, one of the miqat (stations for assuming ihram) for Hajj and Umrah.
4. علي : Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, and the fourth caliph in Sunni tradition.
5. سُلَيْم : Sulaym is a tribe; here it refers to Banu Sulaym, who were allied with Khalid ibn al-Walid.

The Battle of Hunayn occurred in the eighth year of the Hijra [1].

So you see on the day of al-Ghumaysā' ¹ a youth ... who was struck without being wounded, though he had been wounding. So al-‘Abbās ibn Mirdās answered him with verses: "Khālid is more deserving of multiplicity than you ... on the morning he followed a clear path of the matter. He drives to you, by God's permission, ... favorable omens that do not stumble and unfavorable ones." The Battle of Ḥunayn ² in the year eight of the Hijra. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) left Mecca on the sixth of Shawwāl, determined to fight Hawāzin ³, who had transgressed and rebelled due to their abundance of companions and wealth, envying, mobilizing, and hastening in the march against him, bearing rancor. They went out with Thaqīf ⁴ and Banū Sa‘d ⁵, with their children and women, driving with them all their cattle and sheep for the benefit of the Muslims. They agreed, after gathering completely, to meet at Awṭās ⁶. Their leader was Mālik ibn ‘Awf al-Waswās al-Khannās ⁷. The Prophet (peace be upon him) marched with twelve thousand from Mecca and Medina, proceeding as a caller to God by His permission and a supporter of His law and religion, until he reached the valley of Ḥunayn at night. He sent Khālid ibn al-Walīd ⁸ with the cavalry of Banū Sulaym ⁹, arranged the armies and troops, and gave the banners and flags to his companions. Mālik gathered his companions at night in the valley and resolved that his army would be the initiator at the meeting place. When the forward battalions of the Muslims emerged onto the road, the polytheists charged them before they could exit the defile. The cavalry of Banū Sulaym fled in retreat, followed by the people's cavalry in the dim light of dawn, praying. The Prophet (peace be upon him) stood firm with a group of his household and companions, the distinguished ones, among them al-‘Abbās, his son al-Faḍl, ‘Alī, Abū Bakr, and ‘Umar. Then the Muslims rallied and charged the disbelievers, driving them away and scattering them by the permission of the Mighty, the Forgiving. They hit their mark quickly, killing them in a swift slaughter. They were reinforced with angels and supported with victory, obtaining spoils beyond count. The polytheists were defeated, some wounded, some fearful, and they scattered in Awṭās, Nakhlah ¹⁰, and al-Ṭā’if ¹¹. The Prophet ordered the people to pursue them, so they went out following their escape routes, catching, destroying, plundering, capturing, and breaking them, ruling as they knew. They drove to al-Ji‘irrānah ¹² what they had captured of prisoners and spoils, and those landmarks shone with the light of their victory and support. Then they marched to al-Ṭā’if, with goodness flowing upon them continuously. The account of their march will come in detail, God willing. In this battle, al-‘Abbās ibn Mirdās said in verses: "And for us at the well of Ḥunayn is a procession ... that repelled hypocrisy and a hill that does not collapse. We drove the enemies of Hawāzin slowly with lances ... while horses were submerged in rising dust. In every coat of mail whose links were chosen by David when he forged iron and followed. God's Prophet was victorious through us, and we were a people ... who benefit and are beneficial in every calamity. We won his banner and inherited its knot ... the glory of life and a sovereignty that cannot be removed." And in it he said in verses: "And the day of Ḥunayn when Hawāzin marched toward us ... and the ribs were straitened with souls. We struck with al-Ḍaḥḥāk ¹³, not intimidated by the combat of enemies and their battles. Before the Messenger of God, above us fluttered ... a banner like the whirlwind of a cloud, cutting." And in it he said in verses: "And we, on the day of Ḥunayn, our witness was ... for the religion a glory and with God stored. When we rode death, its inner parts green ... while horses were cleared of rising dust. In a strait from the course of war, its entirety ... where the sun and moon almost set. And we endured at Awṭās with our spearheads ... for God, we help whom we will and we triumph." And in it he said in verses: "We rose to them like the coming of the sandgrouse at the flush of dawn ... while everyone was seen to have held back from his brother. For a morning until we left in the evening ... Ḥunayn, its tears flowing blood."

1. al-Ghumaysā' : A place or a battle; possibly a variant of al-Ghumaysā' or a reference to a specific event.
2. Ḥunayn : A valley near Mecca where the Battle of Ḥunayn took place in 8 AH (630 CE) between the Muslims and the Hawāzin tribe.
3. Hawāzin : A large Arab tribe that fought against the Muslims at the Battle of Ḥunayn.
4. Thaqīf : A tribe from the region of al-Ṭā’if that allied with Hawāzin at Ḥunayn.
5. Banū Sa‘d : A subtribe of Hawāzin, known for being the tribe of the Prophet's wet nurse, Ḥalīmah.
6. Awṭās : A valley near Ḥunayn where the Hawāzin gathered before the battle.
7. Mālik ibn ‘Awf al-Waswās al-Khannās : The leader of the Hawāzin at the Battle of Ḥunayn; 'al-Waswās' and 'al-Khannās' are pejorative epithets meaning 'the whisperer' and 'the skulker'.
8. Khālid ibn al-Walīd : A prominent companion and military commander, known as 'the Sword of God'.
9. Banū Sulaym : An Arab tribe that fought alongside the Muslims at Ḥunayn.
10. Nakhlah : A place near Mecca, possibly a valley or settlement.
11. al-Ṭā’if : A city in the Hejaz, besieged by the Muslims after the Battle of Ḥunayn.
12. al-Ji‘irrānah : A place near Mecca where the Muslims distributed the spoils after Ḥunayn.
13. al-Ḍaḥḥāk : A companion or poet; possibly al-Ḍaḥḥāk ibn Sufyān al-Kilābī.

The expedition of al-Ṭufayl ibn ʿAmr al-Dawsī to Dhī al-Kaffayn in the year eight of the Hijra [1].

And Hawazin have taken their women and children from us... and it is beloved to them that we respond and are deprived. In it he says, from the verses: "And at Hunayn, from our gathering, there fulfilled... a thousand, by which the Messenger sent a swift horse. They were before the Muslims, a progeny... and the sun that day was over them cloudless. We proceed, and God guards us with His protection... and God does not let perish one whom He guards." Expedition of al-Tufayl ibn 'Amr al-Dawsi to Dhu al-Kaffayn ¹ in the year eight of the Hijra ². The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Shawwal ³ from the valley of Hunayn and ordered him to march to his people and to undertake the demolition of Dhu al-Kaffayn, which was an idol ⁴ belonging to 'Amr ibn Humama, and to which the people of al-Hatama ⁵ of Daws used to seek refuge, and to request reinforcements from his people and to come to him at al-Ta'if ⁶ in al-Hawma ⁷. So he set out quickly and went obediently and compliantly, demolished the idol, burned it, scattered the company of its followers and dispersed them, and brought to him a battering ram ⁸ and a mangonel ⁹, and accompanied him four hundred from...

1. Dhu al-Kaffayn : An idol worshipped by the tribe of Daws, meaning 'the one with two palms'.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Shawwal : The tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
4. idol : A statue or object worshipped as a god in pre-Islamic Arabian polytheism.
5. al-Hatama : A place or clan associated with the tribe of Daws.
6. al-Ta'if : A city in the Hejaz region of Arabia, about 100 km southeast of Mecca.
7. al-Hawma : A fortified area or stronghold near al-Ta'if.
8. battering ram : A siege engine used to break down walls or gates.
9. mangonel : A type of catapult used to hurl projectiles in medieval warfare.

The Expedition of Ta'if, the Division of the Spoils of Hunayn, and the 'Umra of Ji'rana in the eighth year of the Hijra.

Those of faith and affirmation, and He is the Sayer: (O possessor of the two hands, I am not of Your servants...) (Our birth is older than Your birth...) (I have kindled the fire in Your heart...) The Expedition of Ta'if, the Division of the Spoils of Hunayn, and the 'Umra of al-Ji'irrana in the year eight of the Hijra. Then the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, set out from Hunayn in the aforementioned month, seeking the expedition against Thaqif with his victorious army and his triumphant host, placing Khalid ibn al-Walid at the forefront. He proceeded toward his intended destination, guarded by the eye of the Witnessing Sender ¹, until he encamped near the fortress of Ta'if. There they found that the enemy had fortified themselves with what protected them from archers and catapults. So he set up a mangonel against them, and the Muslims contrived to capture them by every means, besieging them for nine days and the like. They shot at them with Arab bows, cut down their fruits, and burned their trees. The polytheists persisted in their error and sent out a group of armed men with their arrows, striving in fortification and combat. However, a dozen men emerged from their fortress. Permission was not granted to the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, to conquer it, so he ordered everyone to put down their swords and spears. Then he departed to al-Ji'irrana to consider the spoils of Hunayn and to divide what they contained of captives, livestock, and silver. When he settled there, a delegation from Hawazin came to him, mentioning the severity of the affliction and the pain of separation that had befallen them, asking him to show favor and pardon them and to treat them kindly. He answered their request, fulfilled their hope, and released them after giving them the choice regarding their sons and women. Their leader, Malik ibn 'Awf, joined him, clinging to the unbreakable rope of his goodness. He honored him and appointed him over his people after he had embraced Islam. Then he divided the wealth among the warriors, overwhelming both those departing and those arriving with his generosity. He gave each of the nobles one hundred camels and specially favored the group of those whose hearts are to be reconciled ² with great bounty. However, he did not give the Ansar anything from the spoils, so they felt a resentment felt by those of sound intellect. He called them, taking the path of apology in gentleness with them, and doubled their status by saying: "Were it not for the Hijra, I would be a man from the Ansar." The captives numbered three thousand souls and double that, and the camels and sheep were forty thousand and half of that, besides silver, goods, and weapons the like of which could not be sold or measured. When he finished that, he set out in Dhu al-Qa'da for the 'Umra, appointing 'Attab ibn Asid over Mecca as governor, leaving with him Mu'adh ibn Jabal to teach the people about religion. Then he returned to Medina with his companions, safe and victorious. In this expedition, Bujayr ibn Zuhayr ibn Abi Sulma said in verses: (And we indeed tried to make them come out, But they fortified themselves behind a locked door.) (They retreated in disappointment to a rumbling, White [cloud] flashing like death, a formidable host.) (A dense green [cloud]; if they were to hurl it At a mountain's side, it would be as if it had never been created.) And in it, Malik ibn 'Awf said when he embraced Islam: (I have not seen nor heard of anyone like him Among all people, like Muhammad.) (More fulfilling and more giving of abundant gifts when asked, And if you wish, he informs you of what is in the morrow.) (And when the battalion gnashes its fangs With the spear and the strike of every Indian sword,) (He is like a lion among his cubs, In the midst of the lair, fierce, lying in wait.)

1. al-Ba'ith al-Shahid : A divine attribute meaning 'the Witnessing Sender' or 'the Sender who witnesses', referring to God who sends prophets and witnesses their actions.
2. al-Mu'allafa Qulubuhum : Those whose hearts are to be reconciled; a category of recipients of zakat or spoils, often new Muslims or influential figures, to strengthen their faith or prevent harm.

The expedition of 'Uyaynah ibn Hisn al-Fazari to the Banu Tamim in the ninth year of the Hijra [1].

Following this, Ka'b ibn Zuhayr ibn Abi Sulma says in his poem 'Banat Su'ad' when he embraced Islam: (I was told that the Messenger of Allah threatened me... but forgiveness with the Messenger of Allah is accepted) (Gently, may He who gave you the surplus guide you... the Qur'an contains admonitions and details) (Do not take me by the sayings of slanderers, for I have not... sinned, even if accusations abound) (Indeed, the Messenger is a light by which one is guided... a drawn sword from the swords of Allah) Expedition of 'Uyayna ibn Hisn al-Fazari to Banu Tamim in the ninth year of the Hijra The Prophet (peace be upon him) sent him in the month of Muharram, equipping him with fifty horsemen, whose tongue of virtue spoke and expressed, and ordered them to march to Banu Tamim. They marched, turning away from neither friend nor close relative, until they descended upon them in a desert near their land. When they saw them, they rushed out in their running and galloping. They captured eleven prisoners, took captive eleven women and thirty children.

The expedition of Qutba ibn 'Amir to Khath'am in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

Then al-Aqra' ibn Habis and several of their chiefs came to the Messenger and asked him regarding those al-Dibab and al-Husul ¹. He released the captives and prisoners to them and bestowed favor upon them as He had bestowed favor upon others, out of beneficence and reparation. Concerning this, al-Farazdaq says in verses: (And at the Messenger of God, Ibn Habis stood ... with the resolve of a lion ², striving for glory, decisive) (For him He released the captives who were in his bonds ... their necks fettered in the collars) Expedition of Qutba ibn 'Amir to Khath'am in the year nine of the Hijra The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him in Safar and equipped him with twenty believers, with the decree and destiny ³, and commanded them to proceed to Khath'am and to kill them with the edge of the sword ⁴ and the tip of the spear ⁵.

1. al-Dibab wa al-Husul : Two tribes or groups; likely specific clans or factions involved in the incident.
2. iswar : A lion; metaphorically a brave and strong man.
3. bi-l-qada' wa-l-qadar : With the divine decree and predestination; indicating reliance on God's will.
4. dhabab al-mikhdam : The edge of the sword; literally 'the fly of the cutting sword'.
5. taraf al-lahdham : The tip of the spear; 'lahdham' refers to a sharp spear.

The expedition of al-Dahhak ibn Sufyan al-Kilabi against the Qurtā' in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

So they marched until they came to one of their tribes and surrounded them, acting upon the women and children ¹. They fought them fiercely, and God granted victory to the people of guidance over the people of error. They drove the livestock and brought the captives to Taybah ², and the polytheists followed them, but they were prevented by a flood and returned in disappointment. The enemies almost caught up with the guided ones... when they went with the captives and livestock. But what cut the path against them... was a flood that came by the command of the Bestower of Favors. The expedition of al-Dahhak ibn Sufyan al-Kilabi to al-Qurata' in the year nine of the Hijrah ³. The Prophet sent him in Rabi' al-Awwal ⁴ and granted him authority over the army equipped with him, and ordered them to march to al-Qurata' of Banu Kilab. They went until they met them at al-Zajj ⁵ with no veil or screen between them. They fought them, scattered them, and drove them away from those Najdi ⁶ places. Then they returned, coming back for rewards, not for worldly gains.

1. sabi : Captives, typically women and children taken as prisoners of war.
2. Taybah : Another name for Medina, the city of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. Hijrah : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. Rabi' al-Awwal : The third month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
5. al-Zajj : A place name, likely a location in Najd.
6. Najdi : Relating to Najd, a central region of the Arabian Peninsula.

The expedition of 'Alqamah al-Mudlaji to Abyssinia in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

He set out through the Banu Kilab heading for Najd... and ask about al-Qirta' and al-Dahhak. He who witnessed the battle will inform you that... he cut off the enemies with his deadly sword. The expedition of 'Alqamah al-Mudliji to Abyssinia in the ninth year of the Hijra. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him in Rabi' al-Akhir and equipped him with three hundred men, literally wading through his overflowing sea, and ordered them to proceed to the coast and to fight the resident and traveling Abyssinians ¹. It had reached him that they had appeared in Jeddah and that they had wrapped themselves in the cloaks of the night and glittered with the carrying of weapons. So they marched until they met them on one of the islands, and they waded through the sea toward them, intending to seize them for their crimes. When they saw them, they fled, retreating on their heels, and the Muslims returned rewarded and thanked over the passage of years and ages. Toward the Abyssinians the Muslims marched to... the shore of al-Qalamas ² with swords and equipment. When they saw them, they retreated on their heels... out of fear, and how different are the wolf and the lion!

1. al-Ahabish : A collective term for various Abyssinian tribes or mercenaries; also used to refer to the Abyssinians in general.
2. al-Qalamas : A place name; possibly a coastal location or a landmark in the region of the expedition.

The expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to al-Fals occurred in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to al-Fals in the year nine of the Hijra. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him in the aforementioned month and equipped with him one hundred and fifty of the noble Ansar ¹. He set out to the idol of Tayy, known as al-Fals, determined to destroy it. He marched until he reached the settlement of the clan of Hatim at dawn, when the star had set. He demolished the house of the idol and captured many prisoners and livestock. Adi ibn Hatim fled to Syria, and in the tribe, lamentations arose over what had happened. In the treasury of al-Fals there were three coats of mail and three swords, which were added to the spoils and then divided justly and equitably. (Ali marched to al-Fals ... with heroes of al-Hums ²) (They, in demolishing the symbols ... of the enemies, made a thorough demolition) (They went until they came to a house ... of the people of rejection and opposition) (They shattered it and left it ... as if it had never existed yesterday)

1. Ansar : The Helpers; the Muslim inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet after his emigration from Mecca.
2. al-Hums : A term referring to the Quraysh and allied tribes who were known for their strict observance of pre-Islamic religious rites; here used metaphorically for the valiant Muslim warriors.

The Expedition of Tabuk occurred in the ninth year of the Hijra [1].

The Expedition of Tabuk in the year nine of the Hijra ¹. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out in the month of Rajab, and he summoned the people of Mecca, and called upon the Arab tribes to mobilize, and urged the people to go forth, and exhorted them to secure their share in fighting the 'Aluj ². And the Bakka'un ³, who were seven, came to him, seeking mounts, so he said, "I do not find what to mount you upon." And he urged the wealthy to spend in the way of God, so Abu Bakr and 'Uthman each gave generously, filling hands, and the donations reached the limit. He appointed Muhammad ibn Maslama over Medina, and mobilized his formidable battalions and his marked cavalry, and ordered 'Ali ibn Abi Talib to remain with his family, so he stayed, knowing the branch and root of that distinction. It had reached him that the Byzantines had gathered for war, and that their king, Heraclius, had prepared to engage in battle and overcome. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, set out with thirty thousand men, and in his vast army were ten thousand horses. He proceeded with haste and speed, then they moved to rapid pace and swiftness, advancing toward jihad in the way of their Rewarder and Recompenser, determined to break the backs of the enemies and lower their cross, until they arrived at Tabuk and came...

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. 'Aluj : A term used for non-Arab, particularly Byzantine or Persian, enemies; often implying roughness or coarseness.
3. Bakka'un : Those who wept; referring to a group of poor companions who came to the Prophet asking for mounts to join the expedition but were unable to due to lack of resources.

The expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to Dumat al-Jandal in the ninth year of the Hijra [1].

From the frontiers of Syria ¹ for their advance, smiling, and they stayed there fifteen days and five days, and the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, shortened the prayer during the stay among the people. In this expedition came the excuse-makers from the Bedouins, and because of it some people lagged behind without excuse or reason, and some people without doubt or suspicion. In it he appointed Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer in the army, and appointed 'Abbad ibn Bishr over the guard of his radiant army. In it the people woke up with no water with them, so God sent rain through his supplication. In it his she-camel went astray, and he was informed of its location and it was held by its guarantee in some trees. Then he returned to Medina and arrived there in the month of fasting, and it was the last expedition he led himself, may God bless him and grant him peace. In it Abu Khaythama says, when he returned to her after his lagging behind, in verses: "When I saw the people in religion acting hypocritically, I came to that which was most chaste and most generous. And I pledged with my right hand to Muhammad, so I did not acquire sin nor did I approach what is forbidden." Expedition of Khalid ibn al-Walid to Dumat al-Jandal ² in the year nine of the Hijra ³. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him while he was in Tabuk ⁴ in Rajab ⁵ and equipped with him four hundred and twenty men hastening to what was incumbent upon them. So they marched to Ukaydir ⁶ the Christian, leader of Kinda ⁷.

1. thughūr al-Shām : The frontier fortresses of Syria, referring to the border regions between the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic state.
2. Dūmat al-Jandal : An ancient city in northwestern Arabia, known as a center of trade and Christianity.
3. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
4. Tabūk : A location in northwestern Arabia, site of the Expedition of Tabuk in 9 AH (630 CE).
5. Rajab : The seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, one of the four sacred months.
6. Ukaydir : The Christian ruler of Dumat al-Jandal, a vassal of the Byzantine Empire.
7. Kinda : An ancient Arab tribe that established a kingdom in South Arabia and later in central Arabia.

The delegation of Thaqif and the demolition of al-Lat [1] occurred in the ninth year of the Hijra [2].

Determined to demolish his fortress and destroy his troops, they advanced until they reached him. He had come out of the fortress on a moonlit night, chasing wild oxen as if they had fled from a lion ¹. The cavalry charged at him, he was taken captive, and his brother Hassān was killed when he resisted and showed arrogance. Then it was agreed that the fortress would be surrendered to Khālid, and a peace was made with him for a large amount of wealth, both new and old ². Among that were eight hundred and one thousand camels ³. He took out the fifth ⁴ and divided the rest among those with him from that expedition. Then he brought Ukaydir to the one entrusted with the means ⁵, who imposed the jizya ⁶ on him, wrote a guarantee of safety for him, and set him free. Regarding this expedition, Bujayr ibn Bujra al-Ṭāʾī said: "Blessed is the driver of the cows! Indeed, I saw God guiding every guide. Whoever turns away from the one of Tabūk ⁷, we have been commanded to strive ⁸." The delegation of Thaqīf and the demolition of al-Lāt ⁹ in the year nine of the Hijra ¹⁰. The delegation of Thaqīf came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) when the circumambulator ¹¹ of al-Ṭāʾif guided them to obedience to the All-Knowing, the Subtle ¹². They pledged allegiance to him for Islam and followed him in performing the obligations.

1. qaswara : A lion; also interpreted as a hunter or a strong beast.
2. al-ṭārif wa al-tālid : Newly acquired and inherited wealth; 'ṭārif' refers to recent acquisitions, 'tālid' to ancestral property.
3. thamān miʾa wa alf baʿīr : Literally 'eight hundred and one thousand camels,' meaning 1,800 camels.
4. al-khumus : The one-fifth share of war booty that is set aside for God, the Prophet, and specified recipients.
5. al-mukhtaṣṣ bi al-wasīla : The one entrusted with the means of nearness to God; a reference to the Prophet Muhammad.
6. jizya : A tax levied on non-Muslim subjects of an Islamic state.
7. Dhī Tabūk : Referring to the Prophet Muhammad, as the expedition to Tabūk was led by him.
8. jihād : Struggle or striving in the way of God; here, military expedition.
9. al-Lāt : A pre-Islamic Arabian goddess worshipped by the tribe of Thaqīf.
10. sana tisʿ min al-hijra : The ninth year after the Prophet's migration from Mecca to Medina.
11. al-ṭāʾif bi al-Ṭāʾif : A play on words: 'al-ṭāʾif' means 'the circumambulator' or 'the one who goes around,' and al-Ṭāʾif is the city name.
12. al-khabīr al-laṭīf : Two of God's names: 'the All-Aware' and 'the Subtle' or 'the Kind.'

The delegation of Banu Tamim came in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

Prayer and fasting, he ¹ met them with celebration and exclusivity, and appointed over them 'Uthman ibn Abi al-'As ². When they appeared on the horizon of returning to their lands like a shooting star, he sent with them Abu Sufyan ibn Harb ³ and al-Mughira ibn Shu'ba ⁴, and ordered them to demolish al-Lat ⁵ and seize whatever was in her house of valuables and tools. So they went out with them to al-Ta'if, and al-Mughira demolished it without fear or dread, and took what was in it of jewelry and wealth, and returned to Medina enjoying a comfortable life and a tranquil heart. (Al-Mughira went among Thaqif demolishing ... the idol of those who imitated falsehood) (And guidance called out saying: O Lat, stop ... falsehood has gone, so no time for error) The delegation of Banu Tamim in the ninth year of the Hijra ⁶ Then the delegation of Banu Tamim came to the Prophet, peace be upon him, and they began to boast of the purity of their lineage, caring nothing for any man of distinction or status, and they considered no one equal to 'Utarid ibn Hajib ⁷ and al-Zibriqan ibn Badr ⁸. When they entered the mosque, they raised their voices and rushed, calling out from behind the apartments ⁹. Then 'Utarid stood as a speaker and boasted in his poetry, and al-Zibriqan did likewise, but each of them was answered by Thabit ibn Qays ¹⁰ and Hassan ¹¹ in a way that silenced them. Then they embraced Islam and submitted, and spoke of the virtue of the responders, and departed overwhelmed by the kindness of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and his generosity, rejoicing in what they had received of his noble gifts and favors. And among the sayings of al-Zibriqan ibn Badr upon his arrival: (We came to you so that people may know our merit ... when they gather at the thronging of the seasons) (That we are the branches of people in every place ... and that there is none in the land of Hijaz like Darim ¹²) (And we repel the learned when they boast ... and strike the head of the proud and arrogant)

1. he : Refers to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.
2. 'Uthman ibn Abi al-'As : A companion of the Prophet, appointed as governor of Ta'if.
3. Abu Sufyan ibn Harb : A prominent Quraysh leader who later embraced Islam.
4. al-Mughira ibn Shu'ba : A companion known for his intelligence and eloquence.
5. al-Lat : A pre-Islamic Arabian goddess worshipped in Ta'if.
6. Hijra : The migration of the Prophet from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
7. 'Utarid ibn Hajib : A prominent leader of Banu Tamim known for his eloquence.
8. al-Zibriqan ibn Badr : A poet and chief of Banu Tamim.
9. behind the apartments : Reference to Quran 49:4, where those who call the Prophet from behind the private chambers are rebuked.
10. Thabit ibn Qays : A companion known as the orator of the Prophet.
11. Hassan : Hassan ibn Thabit, the poet of the Prophet.
12. Darim : A prominent clan of Banu Tamim.

The delegation of ‘Abd al-Qays came in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

(And we have the right to a quarter of every raid ... that occurs in Najd or in the land of the Persians). So Hassan ibn Thabit answered him with verses: (We aided and sheltered the Prophet Muhammad ... despite the spite and resentment of Ma'add) (We protected the Messenger of God when he settled in our abode ... with our swords from every transgressor and oppressor) (And we struck the people until they followed ... his religion with the sharp swords) (O Banu Darim, do not boast, for your boasting ... will return as a burden when the noble are mentioned) The delegation of 'Abd al-Qays in the year nine of the Hijra Then the delegation of 'Abd al-Qays came to the Prophet, peace be upon him, intending not to answer the caller of guidance with "how" or "no," accompanied by their leader al-Jarud, who was in the religion of

The delegation of Banu Hanifah came in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

Christianity is the cross of wood. When he reached the city and came to him, he desired to embrace Islam, and he presented it to him and invited him to enter the fold of his community. Al-Jarud mentioned to him his abandonment of his religion and asked him for a guarantee of his protection. He guaranteed him that God Almighty had guided him to what is better than his religion, so he embraced Islam along with his companions who had come to the flowing springs ¹. Then he returned with them to their land, having attained their desired guidance and their goal. (The delegation of Abd al-Qays: O glad tidings for you... by obeying the command of the best of mankind) (The Garden of Eternity has been prepared for you... and you have been saved, so enter it in peace) The delegation of Banu Hanifa in the year nine of the Hijra ². Then the delegation of Banu Hanifa came to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and they stayed in the house of a woman from the Ansar ³ in the noble city. Among them was Musaylima the Liar ⁴, whose expulsion and reversal are beyond doubt and without hesitation. Then they came to him and embraced Islam at his hands, and believed in what he brought, which brings them near to God and elevates them before Him. When they returned to al-Yamama ⁵, the enemy of God, Musaylima ibn Thumama ⁶, claimed prophethood and apostatized from Islam, and brought forth from his disbelief what hearts reject and dreams abhor.

1. ʿuyūn muʿīna : Flowing springs; a reference to a place or a metaphor for abundant water.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. Anṣār : The 'Helpers'; the inhabitants of Medina who supported the Prophet Muhammad after his migration.
4. Musaylima al-Kadhdhāb : Musaylima the Liar; a false prophet who emerged in central Arabia during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad.
5. al-Yamāma : A historical region in central Arabia, known for its fertile lands and date palms.
6. Musaylima ibn Thumāma : Full name of Musaylima the Liar; he led a rebellion against the nascent Islamic state and was killed in the Ridda Wars.

The delegation of Tayy came in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

He was a master of deceptive tricks and nightmarish terrors, a dark plan of misguidance. He made fornication and wine lawful for his people, and relieved them of prayer, opposing the command. He continued following his rebellious devil until he was later killed by Khalid ibn al-Walid. (The darkness of Banu Hanifa became light... through the companionship of one overshadowed by the cloud) (They went to profit, while the liar of Yamama turned to loss) The delegation of Tayy in the year nine of the Hijra Then the delegation of Tayy came to the Prophet, peace be upon him, traversing the deserts and seeking refuge in his noble sanctuary, a strong pillar. Their leader was Zayd al-Khayl ¹, known for bestowing kindness and granting abundance. When they reached him, they embraced Islam at his blessed hand and displayed such excellence in Islam as none could rival.

1. Zayd al-Khayl : Zayd al-Khayl (literally 'Zayd of the Horses') was a famous pre-Islamic poet and chieftain of the Tayy tribe. He was known for his generosity and bravery. He embraced Islam during the delegation to the Prophet in 9 AH and was renamed Zayd al-Khayr by the Prophet.

The delegation of Kindah came in the year nine of the Hijrah [1].

The Prophet ¹ praised Zayd and granted him two lands, including the district of Fayd. Then Zayd set out, driven by longing and ecstasy, until he reached a watering place called Fardah in Najd. There he dismounted, parting from his companions and family, and was struck there by a fatal arrow. It was said to him: 'Recite, O Zayd, for I will remain as long as 'Usayb remains.' When he sensed death, he said: 'The people of my tribe set out early in the morning, while I alight in a house at Fardah in Najd. Oh, how many a day, had I been ill, would my visitors have come to me—visitors from whom no one recovers without hardship.' The delegation of Kindah came in the year nine of the Hijra. Then the delegation of Kindah arrived before the Prophet ¹, with good fortune having raised its banner for them, and their covenant was concluded. Al-Ash'ath ibn Qays led them and united their affairs. They were eighty men, hoping that God would raise their mention through Islam. They entered the mosque, having combed their hair and applied kohl.

1. صلى الله عليه وسلم : An honorific phrase meaning 'peace be upon him', used after mentioning the Prophet Muhammad.

The delegation of Azd came in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

Their eyes and they were clad in silk. The Prophet, peace be upon him, ordered them to remove the silk, so they cast off what they had of it in obedience to the bearer of glad tidings and the warner ¹. Then they believed in Allah and His Messenger, and each of them attained the utmost of his desire and the pinnacle of his aspiration. (Say to Ibn Qays and those who came accompanying him ... from the delegation of Kinda, people of success and victory) (You have succeeded when you entered obediently into ... the shade of the Messenger, the hoped-for, the master of mankind) The delegation of Azd in the year nine of the Hijra ² Then the delegation of Azd came to the Prophet, peace be upon him, among them being Surrad, who was the one who strove to make some of them feel at home and dispersed others. So they pledged allegiance to him for Islam and broke the rule of idols and divining arrows ³. And he appointed Surrad ibn Abdullah over those who had embraced Islam from his companions, and commanded him to wage jihad against those neighboring him from the people of polytheism and its lords. So he marched according to the command to the tribes of Yemen and performed valiantly in the battle of the people of Jurash ⁴.

1. al-bashīr al-nadhīr : The 'bearer of glad tidings and the warner' refers to the Prophet Muhammad, who brings good news of Paradise to believers and warns of punishment for disbelievers.
2. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
3. al-azlām : Divining arrows used by pre-Islamic Arabs for seeking omens or decisions; prohibited in Islam.
4. Jurash : A region in Yemen; the battle of Jurash occurred during the lifetime of the Prophet.

The delegation of Hamdan in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

A beautiful affliction ¹ was their killing, a killing in which he was not sinful. Then he returned with the prophetic blessing ², safe and victorious. (O companion, if you come to the delegation of Azd, say ... chanting, 'May God bless you, O Sird!') (You guided your people to guidance and spared them the evil of destruction, and brought back those among them who had fled.) The delegation of Hamdan in the year nine of the Hijra ³ Then the delegation of Hamdan came to the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, united in clinging to the garments ⁴ of faith. Among them was Malik ibn Numayt, in whose eloquent words there is no distortion or error. They wore striped garments ⁵ and turbans of Adan ⁶, and rode on saddles over swift mares and Arhabiyya ⁷ mounts. They entered upon him, desiring the religion of Islam, and he wrote a document attesting to their preservation of covenant ⁸. Then they returned to their homes and courtyards, while the light of faith moved before them and behind them. Concerning this, Malik ibn Numayt said in some verses:

1. balā' ḥasan : A trial or affliction that is beautiful, i.e., a divinely ordained test that leads to spiritual benefit.
2. al-barakah al-nabawiyyah : The spiritual blessing or grace emanating from the Prophet Muhammad.
3. sanat tis' min al-hijrah : The ninth year after the Prophet's migration from Mecca to Medina, corresponding to 630-631 CE.
4. al-ardān : Garments or robes, here metaphorically referring to the covering of faith.
5. al-ḥuburāt : Striped or variegated garments, often of high quality.
6. al-ʿamā'im al-'adaniyyah : Turbans from Aden, a city in Yemen known for its textiles.
7. al-arḥabiyyah : A breed of swift horses from the Arhab tribe in Yemen.
8. ḥifẓ al-dhimām : Preservation of the covenant or pact, referring to the protection and rights granted to the delegation.

The Hajj of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, may God be pleased with him, in the year nine of the Hijra [1].

He swore by the Lord of the dancing maidens to Mina... caravans departing from the plateau of Qardad ¹ That the Messenger of God among us is truthful... a Messenger who came from the One of the Throne, guided. No she-camel has ever carried on its back... one more severe against his enemies than Muhammad. And he gives when the seeker of bounty comes to him... and he is more penetrating with the edge of the sharpened Indian sword ². The Hajj of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq, may God be pleased with him, in the year nine of the Hijra. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him as an amir ³ over the Hajj for the people, having resolved to purify the House from the people of polytheism and impurities. He equipped with him twenty sacrificial camels ⁴, which he had garlanded and marked ⁵ with his own noble hand. So he set out with three hundred men of beautiful qualities and handsome faces. When he was at al-Arj ⁶, Ali ibn Abi Talib caught up with him, riding al-Qaswa ⁷, the she-camel of the Chosen One from the Banu Lu'ayy ibn Ghalib, having been sent to recite Surah Bara'a ⁸ and to renounce the treaties. So he proceeded.

1. Qardad : A place name, possibly a mountain or plateau in the Arabian Peninsula.
2. al-mushrafi al-muhannad : A type of sharp, Indian sword; 'mushrafi' refers to a sword from Mashraf, a place known for sword-making, and 'muhannad' means forged in India.
3. amir : A commander or leader, here specifically the leader of the Hajj pilgrimage.
4. badana : A sacrificial camel or cow, often used in the context of the Hajj.
5. ash'ara : To mark a sacrificial animal by cutting a small piece of its hump or side to indicate it is for sacrifice.
6. al-Arj : A location on the route between Mecca and Medina.
7. al-Qaswa : The name of the Prophet Muhammad's she-camel.
8. Surah Bara'a : Another name for Surah al-Tawba (Chapter 9 of the Quran), which deals with the renunciation of treaties with polytheists.

The expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to Yemen in the year ten of the Hijra [1].

The delegations arrived with existence, then they departed traveling and set out towards the House of God, heading there. Abu Bakr al-Siddiq led the people in the pilgrimage and took the best path to fulfill the rites. He recited Surah Bara'ah on the Day of Sacrifice at the Jamrah ¹ and repudiated every treaty with its people, placing the matter in his own hands, saying: 'After this year, no polytheist may perform the pilgrimage, and no one may circumambulate the House naked.' Then they both returned, heading back to the sanctuary of the Master of masters and nobles. (Indeed, the pilgrims succeeded in the year nine ... of the Hijrah of the Lord of knowledge, virtue, and eloquence) (And they attained acceptance and blessing, and how could they not ... when among them were Abu Bakr and among them was Abu al-Hasan). The Expedition of Ali ibn Abi Talib to Yemen in the year ten of the Hijrah. The Prophet, peace be upon him, sent him in the month of Tarawih ² and tied for him a banner that was hidden by the light of the morning of the lamps' radiance, and he turbaned him with his own noble hand, and singled him out with his abundant blessing, and equipped him with three hundred horsemen, and clothed him from the treasuries of the testament with the most beautiful garments. So he traveled diligently in following the Sunnahs and the paths until he came to the land of Madh'hij in Yemen. He then spread his companions throughout it and dispersed them in its regions and districts. They were absent, then they returned.

1. Jamrah : The stone pillar representing the devil at which pilgrims throw pebbles during the Hajj.
2. Tarawih : The month of Ramadan, named after the special night prayers performed during this month.

The Farewell Pilgrimage [1] occurred in the tenth year of the Hijra [2].

And they presented to him what they had obtained from the spoils. Then he met their assembly and called them to Islam, but they refused him, so he fought them and they were defeated by him. Then they responded to what he called them to, and said: 'We are against those behind us from the people,' and they offered the zakat ¹ and submitted to prayer and fasting. Then he ordered the collection of the various types of spoils and their consolidation, so he took out the khums ² and divided the remainder according to the requirements of justice and its ruling. Then he returned and met the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, while he was in Mecca, having arrived there for the pilgrimage to the Sacred House of God. (He set out by the Prophet's command, diligently ... the son of Abu Talib to Yemen) (He warned the people, then struggled against them ... striving in establishing the sunan ³) (So they believed in obedience to his call ... and turned away from stirring up strife) (Gently, you have reached the goal; how many ... favors upon the people, O Abu al-Hasan ⁴!) The Farewell Pilgrimage in the year ten of the Hijra ⁵ The Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, resolved to perform the pilgrimage in Dhu al-Qa'dah ⁶ and informed the Muslims of his blessed movement and made known to them his intention. The people came to him, clinging to his garments and following his guiding words and deeds. So he left Medina, having bathed and emerged wearing only an izār ⁷ and a ridā' ⁸, with his hair combed, and appointed Abu Dujana over it. He brought out his wives adorned with necklaces of modesty and piety, and prayed the noon prayer at Dhu al-Hulayfa ⁹ shortened, and sent forth the sacrificial animals with their markings and garlands as a remembrance. Then he mounted his she-camel and entered the state of ihram ¹⁰ that day, and the people differed regarding the manner of his talbiyah ¹¹. He proceeded, traversing the stations and following the leading camels with the text on the young ones, until he came to Sarif ¹² with those from Tayba ¹³. Then he entered Mecca from Kada' ¹⁴ until he reached the gate of the Banu Shayba. When he saw the House, he raised his hand in supplication, then circumambulated it with his cloak under his right arm and hastened between Safa and Marwa ¹⁵. Then he went out to Mina on the day of Tarwiyah ¹⁶ and spent the night there, proclaiming the talbiyah. Then he returned to Arafat and stood on his mount at the hillocks. Then he departed after sunset to Muzdalifah and spent the night there with those whose hearts were united in love for him. When he prayed the dawn prayer and fulfilled his need at the standing place at Quzah ¹⁷, he proceeded before sunrise, reciting the talbiyah, until he stoned the Jamrat al-Aqaba ¹⁸. Then he sacrificed his offering and shaved his head at Mina. Then he performed the ifada ¹⁹ circumambulation of the House, knowing Him who established and built it, and completed the rites of Hajj and exited from ihram. He delivered a sermon after the noon of the Day of Sacrifice, in which he clarified the lawful and the unlawful, and the people gathered the precious pearls of his words. Then he bade farewell to the House and departed, returning to Medina. (He journeyed to Mecca, the best of creation ... from Tayba in the tenth year) (He clarified the paths for those who seek it ... with the light of his brilliant signs) (And he explained the Hajj and its pillars ... and the transmitted and radiant sunan) (And guided the people to that by which ... they ascend in this world and the Hereafter) (May God bless him as long as the dove coos ... among its fresh leaves)

1. zakat : Obligatory alms-giving, one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
2. khums : The one-fifth tax on spoils of war and certain other gains, to be distributed according to Islamic law.
3. sunan : Plural of sunnah; the practices and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. Abu al-Hasan : Epithet of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law.
5. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
6. Dhu al-Qa'dah : The eleventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
7. izār : A lower garment worn during ihram, covering from waist to ankles.
8. ridā' : An upper garment worn during ihram, covering the upper body.
9. Dhu al-Hulayfa : A miqat (station for entering ihram) near Medina, also known as Abyar Ali.
10. ihram : The sacred state of ritual consecration during Hajj or Umrah, involving specific dress and prohibitions.
11. talbiyah : The devotional chant recited by pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah, beginning 'Labbayk Allahumma labbayk...'
12. Sarif : A location near Mecca where the Prophet stayed before entering the city.
13. Tayba : An alternative name for Medina.
14. Kada' : A pass or road entering Mecca from the north.
15. Safa and Marwa : Two small hills near the Kaaba in Mecca, between which pilgrims walk back and forth during Hajj and Umrah.
16. Tarwiyah : The eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, when pilgrims go to Mina and prepare for Arafat.
17. Quzah : A hill in Muzdalifah where the Prophet stood and prayed.
18. Jamrat al-Aqaba : The largest of the three stone pillars at Mina, representing Satan, which pilgrims pelt with pebbles.
19. ifada : The circumambulation of the Kaaba performed after returning from Mina on the Day of Sacrifice.

The expedition of Usama ibn Zayd to the land of Palestine in the year eleven of the Hijra [1].

The expedition of Usama ibn Zayd to the land of Palestine in the year eleven of the Hijra ¹. The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, sent him on the twenty-sixth of Safar ² and commanded him to raid the Byzantines and attack them as he was ordered. He tied for him a banner with his own blessed hand and equipped him with the Muhajirun ³ and Ansar ⁴, masters of the conquering swords. He set out, with his banner carried by Burayda ibn al-Husayb ⁵, and camped at al-Jurf ⁶, seeking aid from the Knower of the seen and unseen ⁷. The people of the desert and the city gathered around him, and the notables of the people, including Abu Bakr and Umar, volunteered for the raid. Some people spoke about his command, as he was a youth over the mature men, so the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, ascended the pulpit angrily and mentioned what has been transmitted regarding his precedence and honor. Then the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, lay down on the bed of illness, and what occurred to Usama—indeed to all Muslims—of preoccupation with his death occurred. Then, during the caliphate of Abu Bakr, he marched toward his intended destination, and none of the Muslims sought to turn back his army or dissolve his command. However, Abu Bakr asked him regarding Umar ibn al-Khattab, that he permit him to stay behind from him, and he agreed. He proceeded until he reached the region of al-Balqa ⁸, to the people of Ubna ⁹. He launched a raid on the upper and lower parts of their dwellings, burned their houses and trees, scattered their supporters and helpers, drove horses into their courtyards, captured many of their horses and she-camels, took their children and women captive, seized their wealth, shed their blood, killed his father's murderer, and uprooted the lowly and the noble among them. He showed the army the result of the distinction bestowed upon him, and distributed the total collected spoils among them in detail. Then he saddled his horses for departure until he arrived in Medina after fifteen nights. Abu Bakr and the people came out rejoicing to meet him. This was the last expedition sent by the Messenger of God and the Seal of His Prophets. (Usama has rivaled the star in elevation, and why not, when the best of creation ¹⁰ has made his name renowned? He came to the land of Syria with a host that scattered the enemies, humbled by the might of his resolve. How many times did he establish, through raiding the Byzantines, a knowledge that shines with his wisdom and determination?)

1. Hijra : The emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, marking the start of the Islamic calendar.
2. Safar : The second month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
3. Muhajirun : The early Muslims who emigrated from Mecca to Medina with the Prophet.
4. Ansar : The Medinan converts who hosted and supported the Prophet and the Muhajirun.
5. Burayda ibn al-Husayb : A companion of the Prophet, known for carrying the banner in this expedition.
6. al-Jurf : A location near Medina where the army camped.
7. Knower of the seen and unseen : A reference to God, who knows all things manifest and hidden.
8. al-Balqa : A region in present-day Jordan, historically part of Syria.
9. Ubna : A town in the Balqa region, possibly modern-day Al-Karak or similar.
10. the best of creation : A title for the Prophet Muhammad, meaning the most excellent of all creatures.

The sorcery of Labid ibn al-A'sam the Jew [1]

The sorcery of Lubayd ibn al-A'sam the Jew. When the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, returned from al-Hudaybiyya with his great army, the leaders of the Jews who outwardly professed Islam came to Lubayd ibn al-A'sam, who was the most knowledgeable among them in sorcery and poisons, and asked him to bewitch for them the one protected by the One who guards the heaven with stars ¹. They offered him a reward for that, and he answered them in word and followed word with deed. They exerted themselves in his affair and his sorcery until he [the Prophet] experienced a change in his state that he recognized, and he lost appetite for women, food, and drink, and it would seem to him that he had done something he had not done, until the Companions visited him. Then two angels came to him while he was between sleep and wakefulness and informed him of the sorcery, of who had performed it, and that it was in a comb, combed hair, and a spathe of a male palm ² under a rock in the well of Dharwan ³. And the two surahs of refuge ⁴ were revealed to him. So he prepared to expose it, guided by inspiration, and whenever he recited a verse, a knot would become untied, and he was healed from what he had been suffering, may God bless him and grant him peace. Then he forgave the Jewish sorcerer after he confessed his sin before him. (The Jews envied Muhammad and gathered together ... to harm him through the sorcery of the son of al-A'sam) (They lost and failed, for He informed him of it ... He who taught man what he did not know)

1. al-maḥfūẓ bi-man ḥafiẓa al-samā' bi-al-nujūm : A reference to the Prophet Muhammad, described as the one protected by God, who guards the heaven with stars.
2. juff ṭalʿat dhakar : A spathe (sheath) of a male palm tree, used in the sorcery ritual.
3. biʾr Dharwān : A well in Medina where the sorcery materials were hidden.
4. al-muʿawwidhatān : The two surahs of refuge, i.e., Surah al-Falaq (113) and Surah al-Nas (114), revealed to protect from sorcery and evil.

The sheep of Zaynab bint al-Harith, the Jewish woman [1].

The sheep of Zaynab bint al-Harith the Jewess. When the Prophet ﷺ was in the campaign against the Jews of Khaybar, and those among them who were great and possessed of great disgrace were killed, Zaynab bint al-Harith the Jewess came to him and presented him with a poisoned roasted sheep. She placed it before him while some of his Companions were present, among them Bishr ibn al-Bara' ibn Ma'rur. The Prophet ﷺ took a bite from its foreleg, and Bishr took a morsel from it which lodged in his throat that very night. When he swallowed his morsel, he informed them of its blameworthy consequence and said, "This foreleg tells me that it is poisoned." He threw it to a dog, but it did not follow his hand until it died. How many of his miracles are dazzling, with clear signs and evident marks! Then he summoned the Jewess and asked her what had driven her to harm him. She said, "I said: If he is a prophet, the sheep will inform him; and if he is a king, we will be relieved of his evil." He handed her over to the guardians of Ibn Ma'rur, and they killed her in retaliation for him, according to the soundest opinion recorded. The pain from that meal of Khaybar continued to afflict him until his aorta was severed, as has been reported from him.

Seeking forgiveness for the people of al-Baqi' [1]

He lived after the aforementioned meal for three years, then ascended the ladder of martyrdom ¹ along with what God had bestowed upon him of honor. (A small ewe was placed for the Prophet in Khaybar ... poisoned by the order of the disbelievers) (Its foreleg spoke from the sleeve ² about its poison, out of fear for the Chosen One) (This, and how many signs did the Mustafa ³ have ... traveling throughout all regions) [Seeking forgiveness for the people of al-Baqi'] The Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, was commanded to seek forgiveness for the people of al-Baqi' ⁴, and the messenger came to him with that while he was lying in his house. So he went out in the middle of the night and sought forgiveness for them at length, and prayed for them, by permission of the One who commanded him to take Him as a trustee. He congratulated them on what they had attained, and mentioned of the approaching tribulations what cannot be warded off. He made known to those of his companions who were with him that he was given the choice between this world and the Hereafter, and he chose the meeting with his Lord. Then he prayed over the people of Uhud ⁵ as one bidding farewell to the living and the dead. When he departed, fever ⁶ clung to him until voices rose at his death. (Before death, the Prophet came bidding farewell ... to the people of al-Baqi', praying and seeking forgiveness)

1. shahāda : Martyrdom; dying in the path of God, considered a high spiritual rank in Islam.
2. kumm : Sleeve; here it refers to the foreleg of the sheep being wrapped or covered, and it miraculously spoke.
3. al-Muṣṭafā : The Chosen One; a title of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. Ahl al-Baqīʿ : The people of al-Baqi'; refers to those buried in the al-Baqi' cemetery in Medina, including many companions and family of the Prophet.
5. Ahl Uḥud : The people of Uhud; refers to the martyrs of the Battle of Uhud buried there.
6. waʿk : Fever or illness; here it refers to the Prophet's final illness.

The death of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

And he chose the meeting with his Lord, glorified be He, in the Garden of Firdaws ¹, the best of abodes. The Death of the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace. When two nights remained of Safar, he fell ill with a fever that exhausted minds and preoccupied thought. The heat of the fever intensified upon him, and the humors of illness poured into him. The Muslims hastened to visit him, and the sincere ones grieved in their love and devotion for him. During his illness, he led the people in prayer and recited the Quran until he recited seventy surahs in one night, including al-Baqarah and Al 'Imran. When his condition worsened, he said, "Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer." Thus he clothed him with the caliphate and leadership in prayer, the most honorable garment. He ordered that all doors opening into the mosque be closed except his door. He went out with his head bandaged, delivered a sermon, and praised him in the presence of the Companions. Gabriel came to visit him on behalf of God, honoring him, over three days. The Angel of Death sought permission to enter upon him, though he had not sought permission from any of the distinguished prophets. When that which no creature can avoid—the meeting with death—befell him, he began to wipe his face with water and sought help in his supplication. Then his gaze fixed upon the heaven as the time of departure approached. He was given a choice, and he chose the Highest Companion ² with Gabriel and Michael. He died on the twelfth of Rabi' al-Awwal, at the age of sixty-three, according to the correct account. He was washed by al-'Abbas, 'Ali, and those with them, and they were the ones who laid him in the grave. He was shrouded in three Sahuli ³ garments, without a shirt or turban. The Muslims prayed over him individually, none of them taking the lead as imam. He was buried in the house of 'Aisha, where he died, may God bless him and grant him peace. Abu Dhu'ayb al-Hudhali said: I heard a voice before his death saying: "A calamity has befallen Islam, between the palm trees and the fortified towers. The Prophet Muhammad has been taken, and our eyes shed tears over him in torrents." Sufyan ibn al-Harith ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib said in verses: "Great is our calamity and severe, on the evening it was said: the Messenger has been taken. Our land, due to what has befallen it, almost shakes beneath us. We have lost revelation and the Quran, which Gabriel brought morning and evening. That is the most worthy cause for which people's souls flow, or nearly flow." Fatima, peace be upon her, said: "The horizons of heaven have become dusty, the sun of the day has been eclipsed, and the two twilights have darkened. The earth after the Prophet is gloomy, grieving for him, trembling greatly. Let the east and west of the lands weep for him, let Mudar and every Yemeni weep for him. Let the great mountain weep for him, and the House with its curtains and pillars. O Seal of the Messengers, blessed is your light, may the Revealer of the Quran bless you." Safiyya bint 'Abd al-Muttalib said: "O Messenger of God, you were our hope, and you were kind to us, not harsh. You were merciful, a guide, and a teacher. Let those who weep weep for you today. By your life, I do not weep for the Prophet for his loss, but for what I fear of the coming tribulation. O Fatima, may the Lord of Muhammad pray over a grave in Yathrib ⁴ that holds him. May my mother, my aunt, my uncle, my fathers, my soul, and my wealth be sacrificed for the Messenger of God. You advised and delivered the message truthfully, and you died with a straight spine, radiant and pure. Upon you be peace as a greeting, and you entered the Gardens of Eden, content." Completed with praise to God.

1. Firdaws : The highest level of Paradise, often referred to as the Garden of Firdaws.
2. al-Rafīq al-A‘lā : The Highest Companion, referring to God or the company of the prophets and angels in the highest heaven.
3. Sahūliyya : A type of white cotton garment from Sahul, a region in Yemen.
4. Yathrib : The ancient name of Medina, the city of the Prophet.