THE BATTLE OF BADR

The Battle of Badr (624 CE) Is a major victory battle in Islamic history led by the Prophet (SAW). It marked a turning point for the early Muslim community (ummah) as the battle damaged Meccan trade and boosted the morale of the ummah as a viable force in the pursuit of the control of Mecca. It is the only battle mentioned by name in the Qurʾān.

 

The Muslim army had only 319 men many of whom had endured thirteen long years of persecution before migrating to Medina as against the 1,000 men of the Quraysh army attired in the best armour, riding on superior camels and horses, and armed with a vast array of spears, swords, bows, and arrows.

Before the battle commenced, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) gathered the Sahaba (his companions) and sought their counsel as to what should be done. The companions stood up, one by one, offering their passionate allegiance to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Among them, a companion, Hazrat Miqdad bin Aswad (R.A) got up and made a passionate declaration of love for Islam, saying:

O Messenger of Allāh! We are not like the disciples of Moses (as) so that we should tell you, “Go thou and thy Lord and fight, and here we sit.” Rather, we affirm that you may go wherever you wish, we are with you, and shall fight to your right, and to your left, and in front of you and behind you.’

Although the number of these companions was comparatively small and they barely had any weapons as opposed to their opponents Allah granted them victory.

LESSONS FROM THE BATTLE

1. PERFORM RIGHTEOUS DEEDS BECAUSE IT IS ALLAH's INJUCTION:

As Muslims, we perform righteous deeds because Allah has commanded us to do so and not just from a place of enthusiasm. Behold! The Messenger of Allah was not provoked by the eagerness of his followers to fight. All of his deeds were based on Allah the Exalted’s order. If there was no order to fight, then the Messenger of Allah would still command his followers to be patient. After migration to Madinah, Allah the Exalted finally granted them permission to fight the disbelievers. Allah the Exalted decreed,

“Permission (to fight) has been granted to those for they have been wronged. Verily Allah has the power to help them:” (Quran 22 vs 39)

2.  SUCCESS IS FROM ALLAH:

As Muslims we should work hard but also remember that success is only by Allah SWT. Hence, we are not fruitful due to our own efforts. The Muslims were outnumbered on the battlefield by the Quraish army but things turned around and the situation favoured the Muslims. We should have unwavering faith in Allah in hopeless situations because only Allah knows the future.

3. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF PRAYERS

Before the battle began, the Prophet (SAW) prayed to Allah SWT and help in the form of rain, sandstorm and angels were sent down. As Muslims, we should make dua and believe that it will be answered.

Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Every one of you will have his supplications answered, as long as he is not impatient and he says: I have supplicated but I was not answered.” (Source: Sahih al-Bukhari 6340, Sahih Muslim 273)

4. THE UMMAH SHOULD BE UNITED

In the battle of Badr both the Muhajirin and Ansar set an amazing example for all time to come. They fought together side by side. Even Shaytan fled the scene in the presence and help of Allah that descended on the Muslims. Hence, Muslims should always stand together.

O ye who believe! When you encounter an army, remain firm, and remember Allah much that you may prosper. And obey Allah and His Messenger and dispute not with one another, lest you falter and your power depart from you. And be steadfast, Allah is with those who are steadfast.’ (Quran 8 vs 38).

5. CONSULT EACH OTHER

After learning that a troop was being sent to confront the Muslims. The prophet (SAW) did not immediately ask his companions to prepare for battle instead he held a meeting and consulted them. This act of the prophet teaches us to be humble and turn to honest people for advice.

The victory at Badr was so momentous to the Muslim community that it was believed to be miraculous. It confirmed to the ummah the divine sanction of Islam, for the Qurʾān attributed the success to divine intervention.

For sure Allah helped you at Badr when you were utterly weak. Beware, then, of Allah; perhaps you will be thankful (3:123).

Written by - Awofeso Maryam