[Compiled by: Bani Mohamad Ali]

41
CHAPTER 4: Campaigns
Against the Apostates

The last of the menacing apostates were from the tribe of Banu Hanifah led by
Musailamah Al Kadh-dhab (The Liar). They came as a deputation before the
Prophet (s.a.w.) after the conquest of Makkah. On his return to Yamamah,
Musailamah heard about the illness of the Prophet (s.a.w.) and declared his
prophethood. He also sent a letter to the Prophet (s.a.w.) saying, Since
prophethood is being shared by both of us, each one is entitled to possess half of
the country. The Prophet (s.a.w.) wrote back: In the Name of Allah, the Most
Gracious, the Most Merciful. From Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah to
Musailamah the liar, Peace be upon whom who follows the guidance. After that, the
earth is Allahs. He gives it as a heritage to whom He wills of His slaves and the
end is for the pious. Following this letter, the Prophet (s.a.w.) sent Rajjal bin
Anfuh, a respectable man of Banu Hanifah to bring Musailamah back to the path
of guidance. Rajjal reached Yamamah and then lent support to Musailamah
instead, and became his follower. The Prophet (s.a.w.) then sent Habib bin Zaid
(r.a.) with a letter asking Musailamah to abandon his claim. The letter angered
Musailamah and Habib (r.a.) was chained then brought to Musailamah, who
forced Habib to accept him as a prophet, to which Habib (r.a.) replied, My ears
have been blocked against hearing what you claim. Musailamah ordered his
executioner to cut one of Habibs (r.a.) limbs and forced Habib (r.a.) to testify
again. Habib (r.a.) kept on repeating, I testify that Muhammad is the Messenger
of Allah. Each time Habib (r.a.) refused, the executioner cut him up limb by limb
until he died. News of Habib's (r.a.) death reached his mother Nusaibah bint Ka`b
(also known as Umm Ammarah), who said: It was for such a situation that I
prepared him. He pledged allegiance to Muhammad (s.a.w) on the night of
Aqabah as a small child and today as an adult he has given his life for
Muhammad (s.a.w.). If Allah were to allow me to get near to Musailamah, I would
certainly make his daughters smite their cheeks and lament over him.

The Battle of Yamamah
As ordered by the Caliph Abu bakr (r.a.), Ikrimah bin Abu Jahl (r.a.) was
assigned to Yamamah and then Shurhabil bin Hasanah (r.a.) was dispatched
with reinforcements. But, Ikrimah (r.a.) invaded Musailamahs army before the
arrival of the reinforcements and was defeated. Having heard this news, Abu
Bakr (r.a.) sent word to Ikrimah (r.a.) not to return to Al Madinah but to join
Hudhaifah (r.a.) and Arfajah (r.a.) and fight with the people of Mahrah and Oman
under their command. Having finished that campaign he had to leave for Yemen
and Hadramaut along with his detachment to join Muhajir bin Abu Umayyah
(r.a.). He wrote to Shurhabil (r.a.) to go towards the territories of Khalid (r.a.) and
leave for Qudaah and fight along with the people under the command of Amr bin
Al-As (r.a.) and fight the apostates there. In the meantime, Khalid (r.a.) came
back to Al Madinah. Abu Bakr (r.a.) instead of calling him to account, sent him to
fight Musailamah at the head of a detachment including both the Muhajirin and
the Ansar, which actually was a sign of respect to him.

Deviation to Assabiyah (Tribal Pride)
Musailamah had with him 40,000 of the Rabiah tribe. Some of them knew him
as a liar but their misdirected sense of tribal pride led them to wish him success.
They would openly say, Musailamah is a liar while Muhammad is truthful.
However, to all of us, the liar-prophet of Rabiah is dearer than the truthful
Prophet of Banu Mudar.
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After sending Khalid (r.a.), the Caliph Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (r.a.) dispatched a few
more columns to strengthen the army of Khalid (r.a.) who joined him on the way.
Now, the strength of the Muslim army under the command of Khalid (r.a.) rose to
thirteen thousand. When he was at a distance of one day from the city of
Yamamah, he sent a small column as an advance guard. The same day
Musailamah had dispatched Mujjaah bin Murarah at the head of sixty men to
ambush Banu Tamim. Thus this party came across the advance guard of the
Muslim army. In the encounter, all the apostates were killed and their head
Mujjaah was brought before Khalid (r.a.). When Khalid (r.a.) reached Yamamah,
Musailamah came out of the city and encamped in a fortified garden at the gate
of the city. The forty thousand strong army of Musailamah the liar attacked the
Muslim troops not exceeding thirteen thousand in number. A very furious and
dreadful fight broke out. The Muslim fighters sustained the fierce attack of the
enemy with exemplary patience and firmness.

Battle of the Garden
Soon after they collected themselves at the centre and charged at the enemy and
routed them thoroughly. The apostates fled the field but collected at the gate of
the garden and fought on courage and determination. At this stage Thabit bin
Qais (r.a.) the standard bearer of the Muslim army was honoured with
martyrdom. Zaid bin Khattab (r.a.) lifted the standard and the Muslims showed
such valour that the enemy had to retreat behind the walls of the garden.
Meanwhile, Khalid (r.a.) paused, looking for ideas, on how to break into the
fortified garden. Then Baraa bin Malik (r.a.), stood in the group that confronted
the gate and suggested, Throw me over the wall into the garden. They refused,
for Baraa (r.a.) was a much-respected Sahabah and they do not want to put him
at risk. But Baraa (r.a.) insisted. At last his comrades agreed to his request and
lifted him on their shoulders near the gate. He got his hands onto the edge of the
wall, swung himself up and jumped into the garden. Once inside, Baraa (r.a.) was
confronted by two or three enemmies whom he killed. Before others could
intercept him, he had loosened the heavy bolt. So, the gate was flung open and a
flood of Muslim army roared through it like water thundering through a breach in
a dam. The last and most gory place of the battle of Yamamah had begun.

Zaid (r.a.) in a duel with Rajjal bin Anfuh, try to save him from hell, saying, O
Rajjal! You left the true faith. Return to it. That would be more noble and
virtuous. But Rajjal was defiant and he was killed by Zaid (r.a.). Now the people
asked Musailamah, When will the promise of victory be fulfilled that your god
has given to you? He replied, This is not the time to talk of all this; everyone is
now required to fight for the safety of his wife and children. When his garden too
turned into the battleground, Musailamah got on his horse and began to call his
people to give battle. However, when he witnessed that the situation was under
the full control of the Muslims, he got down and moved secretly towards the exit.
Wahshi (the one who killed Hamzah r.a. in the battle of Uhud) happened to be at
the gate of the garden aiming at a man (i.e. Musailamah), he threw his spear (the
same spear that killed Hamzah r.a.) so forcefully that it pierced through his
double coat of mail, into his chest and passed through his shoulder. Wahshi had
vowed to make amends for the killing of Hamzah (r.a.), when the Prophet (s.a.w)
while forgiving him, did not look at his face after he embraced Islam in Madinah.
When Wahshi learnt that the man he killed was the notorious enemy of Islam,
Musailamah the liar, he felt relief that Allah give him the opportunity to fulfil his
vow. Wahshi used say repeatedly, In my days of disbelief I killed the best man
(meaning Hamzah r.a.) and in my days of belief, I killed the worst man (meaning
Musailamah).
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Meanwhile, Umm Ammarah the mother of Habib bin Zaid (r.a.) the first martyr in
the fight against Musailamah and apostasy was at the scene. She and her other
son, Abdullah bin Zaid (r.a.) rushed towards Musailamah and strike him down,
after Musailamah was speared by Wahshi. Umm Ammarah felt relief as the
Justice of Allah was done and her vow fulfilled. Soon the death of Musailamah
was known in the midst of the ongoing battle.

The Defeat of Apostates of Banu Hanifah
Panic overtook the enemy and in a short while there was none left to be seen on
the battlefield other than the Muslims. This battle took a heavy toll on the enemy
force leaving seventeen thousand dead while one thousand from the Muslim side
were honoured with martyrdom. Among them were a large number of Huffaz
(those who had committed the entire Quran to memory). The rest of Banu
Hanifah fled the battlefield fleeing for their lives leaving their women and children
behind. Since a great number of Muslims had sustained injuries, Khalid (r.a.)
decided to conquer the city of Yamamah the next day. Mujjaah bin Murarah, the
captive took advantage of this decision. He misled Khalid (r.a.) by saying that the
greater numbers of men from his tribe were still alive and they were well-armed
and formidable enough to fight on. He then asked Khalid (r.a.) that if he was
freed, he could persuade them not to give fight. Thus both the city and its citizens
would come under their control without bloodshed. Khalid (r.a.) accepted his
proposal and freed him. Mujjaah went into the city and asked the women to get
on the ramparts with their weapons. He then came back and said to Khalid (r.a.).
My people are not ready to make peace merely in return for their safety. When
Khalid (r.a.) looked towards the city, he found that the ramparts showed nothing
but swords and spears, which verified the statement of Mujjaah. Keeping an eye
on his injured soldiers and the expectation of a long drawn out battle, Khalid
(r.a.) thought it reasonable to make peace with the enemy. Thus he offered to
leave for them half of their wealth and possessions, half of the planted gardens
and half of the captives of Banu Hanifah. Mujjaah went to the city once again
and came back with the report: They are not ready to accept this offer, you can
win peace by taking from them one-fourth of their possessions. Khalid (r.a.)
agreed to the proposal and the peace treaty was written down.

Following this, Khalid (r.a.) went inside the city. He was amazed, to find only
women and children. Why did you play a trick on me? Khalid (r.a.) asked
Mujjaah. My people were on the brink of death and destruction, so it was my
duty to pull them out of this situation, please excuse me, Mujjaah replied.
Khalid (r.a.) kept silent not thinking in the least about breaking the agreement. A
short while after Musailamah bin Waqsh, an emissary of Abu Bakr (r.a.) gave
Khalid (r.a.) a letter from the Caliph directing him to kill their men and make
their women and children captives in case the battle was won. But the peace
treaty was signed before the arrival of the emissary, so the order from Al-Madinah
could not be implemented. This event is a memorable example of how particular
the Muslims were about keeping their promises and upholding their treaties.
Khalid (r.a.) sent a deputation of Banu Hanifah to Abu Bakr (r.a.) with a letter. He
had mentioned in it the details about the recent victory and Banu Hanifahs re-
entry to Islam. Abu Bakr (r.a.) held them in high esteem and bade farewell to
them in the same spirit. The battle of Yamamah took place in Dhul-Hijjah 11 AH
that ended in victory but with heavy casualties. Among the martyrs at Yamamah
were: Thabit bin Qais, Abu Dujanah, Abbad bin Bishr, Zaid bin Khattab, Uthman
bin Maz`un, Shujaa` bin Wahb, Tufayl bin Amr, Amir bin Bukair, Abdullah bin
Suhail, Abdullah bin Makhramah, Malik bin Amr, Ma`an bin Adiy, Yazid bin
Qais, Abu Hudhaifah bin Utbah and his freed slave Salim Mawla.
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Hatm bin Dubaiah
It has already been mentioned that Abu Bakr Siddiq had sent Ala bin Al-Hadrami
(r.a.) to Bahrain at the head of a detachment. Banu Abdul-Qais and Banu Bakr
bin Wail along with their allies inhabited Bahrain. Islam reached Bahrain, in the
days of Mundhir bin Sawa` who received a letter from the Prophet (s.a.w.) in the
post Hudaibiyah Treaty (Signed between Quraish and the Muslims in Madinah)
era, inviting him to Islam. During the reign of Mundhir bin Sawa`, most people
embraced Islam in Bahrain. Jarud (r.a.) was one of them and he went to Madinah
to learn more from the Prophet (s.a.w.) in order to be of service to the tribes in
Bahrain. Al Mundhir died soon after the Prophet (s.a.w.) and there was chaos.
The people of Abdul-Qais tribe renounced Islam when they heard of the death of
the Prophet (s.a.w.) with the idea that had he been a Prophet, he would not have
died. Jarud bin Al-Mualla (r.a.) assembled his people and put the question to
them, Had there been other Prophets before Muhammad (s.a.w.)? Yes, there
had been many, they admitted with one voice. Had they not passed away after
passing their lives like common people? he put another question. They all
passed away after passing their days of life, they admitted. The Prophet (s.a.w.),
also completed his span of life and then passed away exactly in the same
manner, he said and called in a loud voice: I testify that there is no God but
Allah and Muhammad in His slave and Messenger. The hearts of the people of
Abdul-Qais tribe were moved so deeply that they all expressed deep sorrow for
their wrongdoing and returned to the fold of Islam.

Though Abdul-Qais tribe was saved through the timely efforts of Jarud (r.a.) but
Banu Bakr tribe took to apostasy and made Hatm bin Dubai`ah their chief. He
marched ahead with a large number of men from Banu Bakr and camped
between Qatif and Hijr. He then sent a small party to Abdul-Qais tribe calling
upon them to apostatise, but Abdul-Qais flatly refused to apostatise. Hatm then
sent Marur bin Suwaid with a group to either make them apostate or fight with
them. In the meantime Ala bin Al-Hadrami (r.a.) arrived in Bahrain with his
detachment. He sent word to Jarud (r.a.) to launch an attack on Hatm in the
company of Banu Abdul-Qais. With the spread of this news, Muslims from the
surrounding areas collected around Ala bin Al-Hadrami (r.a.) while the apostates
gathered round Hatm. Ala bin Al-Hadrami (r.a.), moved ahead with his army and
camped near the military camp of Hatm, who had dug trenches around his camp.
The fight between the two started but there was a stalemate even after a long
period of one month. However, Ala bin al-Hadrami (r.a.) lost his patience and
launched a massive attack across the enemy trenches, striking fear into the
enemys heart. The enemy was completely routed with the killing of Hatm at the
hands of Qais bin Asim. Gradually all the apostates turned back to Islam.

Laqit bin Malik Apostasy in Oman
The region of Oman was ruled by Jaifar Al Julandi who accepted Islam upon the
invitation of the Prophet (s.a.w.) in the post Hudaibiyah era. Amr bin Al `As (r.a.)
was sent to communicate with Jaifar Al Julandi and his household. Most people
in Oman embraced under Jaifar influence. On hearing the news of the Prophets
(s.a.w.) death, Laqit bin Malik Al Azdi, declared his prophethood in Oman. Laqit
exempted his followers from the obligation of Solat, fasting, and Zakat. He
sanctioned adultery and consumption of wine. Jaifar remained faithful to Islam,
but lost control on the people of Oman most of whom have apostatised. Laqit
gained in strength, overthrew Jaifar and declared himself ruler of Oman and
assumed the title of Dhul Taj the crowned head. Jaifar and the few loyal to
Islam had to seek refuge in the hill. Then, the people of Oman and Mahrah forced
out of their territory, Zakat collectors sent by the Prophet (s.a.w.).
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It has been mentioned above that Abu Bakr (r.a.) had sent Hudhaifah bin Mihsan
Al Himyari (r.a.) to Oman and Arfajah bin Harthamah (r.a.) to the people of
Mahrah with the order that they should keep together. Abu Bakr (r.a.) had also
directed Ikrimah bin Abu Jahl (r.a.) to join Hudhaifah and Arfajah (r.a.) in Oman.
Thus all the three commanders of the Muslim detachments stayed together in
Oman. On being informed, Laqit collected his fighters and moved ahead to face
the Muslim army. Ikrimah (r.a.) was the head of the advance guard while
Hudhaifah (r.a.) had the command of the right wing and Arfajah (r.a.) the left one
and in the middle of the army were the rich and influential persons of Oman who
had been firm on Islam. Fighting broke out at the time of the dawn prayer. The
Muslim army was fighting from the low-lying areas while the enemy force was
giving battle from the high ground. At the outset the Muslim troops suffered
reverses but the proverbial patience and firmness of the believers turned the
tables and forced the enemy to retreat. Word was sent to Jaifar and his followers
to come down from the hill and join in the attack. The apostates fled in panic
leaving behind a thousand dead, four thousand as captive and a large quantity of
booty. The Muslim army returned to Al-Madinah victoriously. Ikrimah (r.a.) left
for Mahrah and after a short period of time, the entire Oman returned firmly to
Islam. Jaifar Al Julandi was restored as Ruler of Oman.

Campaign in Mahrah
Mahrah had some people from Oman and some others from Abdul Qais, Azd and
Banu Sad tribes that inhabited this territory. But they were divided in two
factions after turning apostate, each faction fighting with the other. In this
situation Ikrimah (r.a.) arrived in Mahrah and one of the factions accepted Islam.
The next one, whose head was Musabbih, rejected the offer and remained
adamant in his attitude. Thereupon Ikrimah (r.a.) attacked the apostates giving
them a crushing defeat and killing their chief. This victory led a large number of
people from all the tribes to join the forces of Islam.

Apostasy in Yemen
Al Aswad Al Ansi, was dealt with during the lifetime of the Prophet (s.a.w.). But
the next wave of apostasy came from two chiefs, Qais bin Makshuh and Amr bin
Madikarib. The Muslims were small in numbers and were brutally tortured by
the Yemenite apostates with the result they had left the area. Abu Bakr (r.a.) had
sent Muhajir bin Abu Umayyah (r.a.), with a detachment to pass through
Makkah and Taif and then to go to Najran taking Muslim fighters from these
cities. Qais and Amr had already received the news of Muhajirs (r.a.) arrival. Amr
bin Madikarib was a well-known wrestler whose swordsmanship had won him
admiration throughout the country. Muhajir (r.a.) saw himself and his army
surrounded by a swarm of enemy forces and this infused in them a sense of
courage, fervour and determination, and they attacked the enemy with full force
and vigour. The chieftains, Qais and Amr were caught after a thorough defeat of
the enemy troops. Qais and Amr were sent to Al-Madinah and both of them
admitted their wrongs and returned to Islam.

Muhajir (r.a.) reached Sana and cleared the entire territory of apostates. It was
there that Ikrimah bin Abu Jahl (r.a.) met him. From there both the commanders
made a joint march to punish Banu Kindah who were busy making large-scale
preparations against the Muslims under the command of Ashath bin Qais and
their strength was increasing day by day. Informed of this, Muhajir (r.a.) took a
fast squad of horsemen from his army and hurried towards Ashath leaving his
army under the command of Ikrimah (r.a.). He attacked the enemy force so
suddenly that they fled in fear. Ashath made a quick escape and took refuge in a
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46
fort where, he was joined with other apostates. Muhajir (r.a.) besieged the fort
and he was joined by Ikrimah (r.a.). The severity of the siege and the blockade of
reinforcements forced Ashath to lay down his arms. He then appealed to the
Muslim commander to spare the lives of only nine persons including his wife and
children. But Ashath forgot to include his own name. Thus all, exclusive of those
nine persons were held captive. Ashath was also among the captives. They were
presented before Abu Bakr (r.a.) Ashath expressed regret for his past deeds and
accepted Islam. Abu Bakr (r.a.) set free all the captives including Ashath issuing
them strong warnings not to repeat their past actions.

Complete Eradication of Apostasy
Abu Bakr (r.a.) was able to put down all the uprisings of apostasy in less than
one year. Now the entire Arabian Peninsula was free from the filth of polytheism
and apostasy. Not a tinge of malaise of this nature was to be traced anywhere
within the bounds of Arabian continent. Only a few months before, the clouds of
apostasy covered everywhere except Al-Madinah, Makkah and Taif, and swords
and spears, lances and arrows seemed to be flying everywhere. However, in this
very short period the situation turned around completely. It was unflinching
courage and unyielding determination that faced the hostile storm and stress on
all fronts and came out victorious in all events. Even the legendary grit and
valour of Rustam and Isphandiyar (Persian Generals) could not come face to face
with, in the least of what was shown by Abu Bakr (r.a.) The reason is that the
qualities of leadership displayed by the Caliph of the Prophet (s.a.w.) were the
direct result of his upbringing under the blessed shadow of the Messenger of
Allah (s.a.w.). The army of As-Siddiq (r.a.) had firm faith with matchless men of
courage like Khalid, Ikrimah, Shurhabil, and Hudhaifah (Allah be pleased with
them) but it was the dauntless courage of Abu Bakr (r.a.), which kept control over
the state of affairs, organised the campaigns and dispatched the detachments to
far off lands. He never allowed fear, anxiety or timidity to enter the hearts of the
true believers. His strategies of war had no parallel and Muslim troops were
fighting according to the plans chalked out by the Caliph of the Prophet (s.a.w.).
At first consideration it appears that the eleven detachments sent to various
places were instrumental in wiping out apostasy from the face of Arabia, but in
fact, it was simply the clever devices and the expert opinion of Abu Bakr (r.a.)
alone that swept away all the filth lying in the path of Islam. And this gigantic
task was accomplished within a very short span of a few months. In the
discouraging and frustrating situation that he was facing, none else was there to
show such a magnificent farsightedness as he demonstrated. He neither agreed
to hold back the expedition of Usamah bin Zaid (r.a.) planned by the Prophet
(s.a.w.) himself during his last days nor did he pay heed to Umars (r.a.)
outbursts nor did he delay the collection of Zakat from the apostates. Who could
then be the true successor of the Prophet (s.a.w.) in his temporal affairs?

The Ruling and Dealing with Apostasy in Islam
After having gone through a great deal about apostasy and the anarchy that it
brought, the need for the Muslim Ummah of that time, to get rid of this menace
totally is understandable. Before continuing with the campaigns against
Byzantium and Persia in the Caliphate of Abu Bakrs (r.a.), let us analyse
apostasy in Islam, in a broader context. In order to understand Aqidah (matters
that concerns Iman i.e. faith and belief) and in living Deen Al Islam, there is a
need to recognise this issue in context. Besides, there is growing criticism against
Islam and Muslim in this issue of dealing with apostasy that has caused
confusion worldwide. Let us study by referring to the Qur`an and authentic
Hadith, in order to arrive at understanding on this issue.
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47
Ridda in the Qur`an
Regard to freedom of belief is very clear in Islam as the Qur`an states: Let there
be no compulsion in Deen (Way of Life, religion), the truth stands clear
from error (Al Baqarah 2:256). In this context, let us first put in place, the fact
that, Allah the Almighty is not affected in any way whatsoever, with the choice
made by humans. On the other hand human are affected by the choice they
made for themselves. This verse serves as an important guideline for Muslims,
with a clear instruction - not to compel others. Allah grants this freedom to
choose, but at the same time Allah is pleased with righteousness and displeased
with unrighteousness. In the context of Ridda (apostasy, renegade or
abandonment of faith), the Qur`an states:
, ,, | - , . - , - = , - , - , =| = , . , ,, , ; , , -| _ | ,
_ - -| . | - ,, , _ - | -| , , = _ . = , , | _ - - |
| | - - , | ., , = , - -, , -| = c | . , -| ` ,, - ` _ =

O you who believe! Whoever from among you apostates from his Deen
(Islam), Allah will raise a people whom He will love and they will love Him;
humble towards the believers, stern towards the disbelievers, Jihad
(striving) in the Way of Allah, and never fear of the blame of the blamers.
That is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He wills. And Allah
is All Encompassing, All-Knowing. (Al Maa`idah 5:54)

Apostasy is a grave sin, without doubt, there are other verses in the Qur`an,
that is conclusive on this. However, the above verse refers directly to apostasy
and its consequence. The Muslim Ummah was stern towards the apostates and
that happened (as we have read) in the Caliphate of Abu Bakr (r.a.). So Abu Bakr
(r.a.) took the right course of action (as mentioned in previous chapter) in fighting
against a serious threat. However, the Qur`an did not specifically give detail of
the punishment to be meted out against apostates in general. Allah in His infinite
wisdom sees fit that Muslims deal with this issue intellectually on a case-to-case
basis throughout time. However, examples can be drawn from History, as the
Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) and his Sahabah have dealt with apostasy.

The Prophet Muhamads (s.a.w.) Examples
The Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) dealt with a few cases of apostasy in his lifetime,
thus his (s.a.w.) examples together with the guideline from the Qur`an enable
Muslims to act appropriately when facing this issue of apostasy. In a Hadith, Abu
Qilabah narrated: By Allah! Allah's Messenger never killed anyone except in one
of the following three situations: A person, who killed somebody unjustly, was
killed in Qisas (i.e. retribution). A married person who committed illegal sexual
intercourse, and a man who fought against Allah and His Messenger and
deserted Islam and became an apostate." (Al Bukhari 9/37)

The Prophet (s.a.w.) said, "The blood of a Muslim who confesses that none has the
right to be worshipped but Allah and that I am His Messenger, cannot be shed
except in three cases: in Qisas for murder, a married person who commits illegal
sexual intercourse and the one who abandons Islam (apostate) and leave the
Muslims." (Al Bukhari 9/17)

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48
Consistent with the Qur`an, the punishment for apostasy that threatens is death.
Further, reference can be found in Tabaqat Ibn Sa`ad, examples on how the
Prophet (s.a.w.) dealt with apostasy: Abdul Uzza bin Khatal who had become a
Muslim and then deputed to collect Zakat in the company of an Ansar (Helper).
They had also a slave with them. Abdul Uzza, in a fit of rage, killed the slave of
the Ansar on account of a mere trivial matter of not preparing food. He joined the
pagan Quraish as an apostate. He was never repentant at this heinous crime but
rather employed two women singers and incited them to sing satirically about the
Prophet (s.a.w.) Miqyas bin Sababa was a Muslim. A man from the Ansar
accidentally killed his brother Hisham. The Prophet (s.a.w.) had arranged the
payment of blood money to him, which he had accepted. His revengeful nature,
however, was never appeased, so he killed the Ansar and went to Makkah as an
apostate. Abdullah bin Sa`ad apostatised when the Prophet (s.a.w.) admonished
him for tampering with Wahiy (Revelation from Allah). Abdullah used to be one of
the scribes, however he was found guilty of altering the words from the
revelation. When confronted by the Prophet (s.a.w.), Abdullah resented and ran
away to Makkah and declared his apostasy.

During the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet (s.a.w.) ordered the execution of
Abdul Uzza and Miqyas but Abdullah bin Sa`ad was given time to repent.
Abdullah was Uthman bin Affan (r.a.) foster brother. He brought Abdullah to the
Prophet (s.a.w.) as a repentant Muslim, later and pled for leniency. The Prophet
(s.a.w.) forgave him together with a large number of his staunch enemies like
Hind bint Utbah, Suhail bin Amr, Ikrimah bin Abu Jahl and Safwan bin
Umayyah. They all embraced Islam on the day of conquest. Thus those executed
for apostasy were a menace as they also committed treachery and murder.

In Sirah of Ibn Hisham: Another noteworthy case concerns - Ubaidullah bin
Jahsh. He went on searching for the truth on his own till he embraced Islam at
the advent of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.). Then he migrated with the
Muslims to Abyssinia in the days of persecution in Makkah, together with his
wife, Umm Habibah (r.a.) daughter of Abu Sufyan. When Ubaidullah arrived there
he followed the Nasara (Qur`anic term for Christianity) and parted from Islam.
The Prophet's (s.a.w.) Sahabah who were in Abyssinia used to say to Ubaidullah,
We see clearly, but your eyes are only half open that is to say We see, but you
are only trying to see and cannot see yet. Perhaps, the Sahabah noticed the
physical changes in Ubaidullah and showed concern for him. After his death the
Prophet (s.a.w.) married his widow Umm Habibah (r.a.) in Madinah. Amr bin
Umayyah Ad-Damri (r.a.) was sent to the Negus (Ruler of Abyssinia) to ask for
her. In this case the Prophet (s.a.w.) did not order any execution of Ubaidullah for
apostasy. Besides the prominent Sahabah who were there, like Ja`far bin Abi
Talib (r.a.) and Abu Musa Ash`ari (r.a.) were not hostile towards Ubaidullah.

The Case of Uyainah bin Hisn Al Fazari (Ash Shamail of At Tirmidhi)
Uyainah bin Hisn was thought to have embraced Islam in time of the Prophet
(s.a.w.). However, in the Battle of Al Ahzab (6 AH) he sided with the Quraish and
their allies besieging Madinah. But he and his tribe Banu Fazarah left the siege
and defected. This was seen as repentance on the part of Uyainah and Banu
Fazarah. Then, in the conquest of Makkah he joined the Muslims. As mentioned
he, then joined Tulaihah Al Asadi and fought alongside the apostates in the days
of Ridda. After the defeat of Tulaihah, he surrendered and was brought before
Abu Bakr (r.a.). The children of Madinah began jeering him and calling him
Murtad (one who turned apostate). Uyainah replied, Since when have I been a
Muslim that it may be said that I have become a Murtad.
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Based upon his claims Uyainah admitted to his deception. Therefore all along he
only regard himself an ally of the Muslims in the time of the Prophet (s.a.w.) and
his fickleness was due to tribal politics. Abu Bakr (r.a.) knew of Uyainah
adventures but did not execute him upon arrest but showed leniency. Uyainah
took this opportunity to embrace Islam at the hand of Abu Bakr (r.a.) and was
pardoned. As a Muslim, Uyainah took part in campaigns in the time of Umar bin
Al Khattab (r.a.) and proved to be truthful. In this case Abu Bakr (r.a.) showed
another example of dealing with apostasy and treason. Overall believers and
especially one in the calibre of Abu Bakr (r.a.) are more prone to pardoning just
as Allah the Almighty is Al Ghaffur (The Pardoner)

Opinions of Ulama` (Scholars)
After studying the examples in the past, perhaps we can understand better about
the differing views of the Ulama`. It would be too lengthy to discuss the Qiyas
(anecdotes) and the Ijtihad (strive to form an opinion) of the Scholars, and that
would be under the subject of Shari`ah (Islamic Law). Thus, it would be sufficient
to summarise briefly on this matter.

In the Tabi`in era (those who followed after the Sahahah), the Imams - Ash
Shafi`i, Hanafi, Malik, and Hanbali held the viewpoint - death for male apostates
and imprisonment for female apostates provided apostasy was committed while
mentally sound and not under duress. Various Hadith were cited to arrive at this
ruling. However, the Fuqaha` (Jurists) of the abovementioned Madh-hab (Schools
of Thoughts for Jurisprudence), except that of Ash Shafi`i, like Sarakhsi, Ibn Al
Walid and Ibn Taymiyyah held the view that apostasy carries no legal
punishment. Sufyan Ath-Thawri bin Sa`id, a Tabi`i himself, have also argued that
the Hadith cited to justify execution of apostates should be taken to apply only to
political betrayal of the Muslim Ummah, rather than to apostasy in general.

These
scholars argue for the freedom to convert to and from Islam without legal penalty,
and consider the aforementioned Hadith quote as insufficient confirmation of
harsh punishment; they regard apostasy as a serious crime, but undeserving of
the death penalty. However, death for apostasy was largely carried out in the era
of the Umayyad and Abassid but not prevailing in the Ottoman era.

Most contemporary Ulama` took a cautious approach in dealing with individual
apostasy. In the context of current situation, apostasy may be due to personal
reasons, instability of the mind or mere victims of Evangelism. Thus counselling
is required so as to be of service rather than to be of disservice by meting out
punishment. This view is base on the Qur`an Al Baqarah 2:256. Lastly, the
advice from the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) with regards to the implementation
of punishment, the Prophet instructed the judges and rulers: Suspend
prescribed punishment (hudud) as far as you can. For it is better to err in
forgiveness than making an error in punishment. (Abu Yusuf). Thus, this seems
to be the better path to take when dealing with individual and non-treacherous
apostasy. Let Allah the Exalted, the All Wise, judge in the hereafter where none
can evade.

Rome (Byzantium) and Persia
Now to continue with the greater struggle that early Muslims have to face, that is
the two large empires existing at the time of the advent of the Prophet (s.a.w.), the
Persian and the Byzantine. About four hundred years before the advent of the
Prophet (s.a.w.), Ardashir laid the foundation of the Sassanid Empire and
brought under its control the Persian Gulf, the Euphrates, the Caspian Sea, the
Indus, Oxus and the whole continent of Asia.
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50
At the time of the birth of the Prophet (s.a.w.), Nushirwan Sassani was the
emperor of Persia and his grandson Khusraw Pervez (Chosroes) was the ruler
when Muhammad (s.a.w.) was honoured with Prophethood. The Roman Empire
was in its glory since the rule of Julius Caesar and his heir Augustus Caesar.
Egypt, Asia Minor and the whole of Europe formed part of the Roman Empire. It
was later divided into two parts. While Rome remained the capital of the western
part, the eastern part made Constantinople its capital. The king of
Constantinople was also called Caesar and he ruled over Egypt, Abyssinia,
Palestine, Syria, Asia Minor and the Balkans. The Eastern Roman Empire or
Byzantium was far ahead in grandeur and power than Western Rome. They were
occasional war between them, as the borders separating them were disputed. In
the era of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) Heraclius was enthroned ruler of the
Byzantine Empire after a rebellion that killed his predecessor Caesar Publius.

The Byzantines and the Persians were often at war with each other. During the
eighth year of Prophethood, the Persians conquered Syria and took away the
cross, when they captured Baytul-Maqdis (Jerusalem). The polytheists of Makkah
expressed jubilation at the victory of the Persians, for the Persians were
polytheists while the Byzantines were people of the Book. The Muslims naturally
had sympathy for the Byzantines, so it was sad news for them. Allah the
Almighty revealed the Verses of Surah Ar-Rum and let them know that although
Rome had been defeated at that time, but in a few years they would gain victory
to the rejoicing of the Muslims and so it happened. Heraclius rose from the
position of defeat and frustration and after preparing for six or seven years with
indomitable courage and determination, took his revenge on the Persians on the
battlefield of Syria. The Byzantines defeated the Persians and about the same
time, the Quraish polytheist tasted a crushing defeat at the hands of the Muslims
at Badr. Thus the prophecy of the Quran came true.

After the Treaty of Hudaibiyah 6 AH (628 CE) the Prophet (s.a.w.) sent invitation
letters to a number of monarchs, including Heraclius and Kisra (as the Arabs
called him). Heraclius the Byzantine Emperor showed due respect to the
invitation but declined it. Kisra Emperor of Persia received the letter from the
Prophet (s.a.w.) at Madain and he tore it up to pieces in a rage of anger. Then
Kisra out of arrogance and haughtiness sent his governor Badhan in Yemen to
arrest the Arabian Prophet and bring him to Madain. Badhan together with a
band of soldiers went to Al-Madinah. The Prophet (s.a.w.) informed Badhan that
Kisra is dead killed by his own son last night. When Badhan came to know of the
truth that, Kisra was killed by his son Sherweh, he and his fellow Abna in Yemen
embraced Islam. Meanwhile Sherweh who took over rule was too preoccupied
with his internal problems, thereafter quick successions of rulers was enthroned
that included Puran, the daughter of Kisra. The Prophet (s.a.w.) passed away
during her time. The Persian Empire was already weakening after so many
successors, till finally Yezdgird III rose to the throne of Persia. The Persian
Empire was on the decline from the day the letter of the Prophet (s.a.w.) was torn
up with disrespect, by Kisra. The Prophet (s.a.w.) on hearing Kisras action, said:
Kisra has torn-up his own kingdom to pieces. The Persians looked down upon
the Arabs. After knowing that the Arabs are bearers of a new religion that is
spreading rapidly, they became determine to uproot the Muslim completely.

The Jews (a section of them) and the hypocrites constantly sent messages to the
Persians and the Byzantines to attack Muslims in Al Madinah. Since the
Heraclius court was free from such plotting and counter-plotting, he was in a
position to carry out the missions that threatened Al-Madinah. The time when
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51
the Prophet (s.a.w.) had sent his letter to Heraclius, he had also dispatched
letters to Busra and Damascus. But both the rulers ill treated the emissaries of
the Prophet (s.a.w.). Shurahbil bin Amr Al Ghassani, the ruler of Busra had gone
to the extent of killing Al-Harith bin Umair (r.a.). In the battle of Mutah, that
followed, Heraclius was on the side of Shurahbil Al Ghassani.

Following this, the Byzantines (Arab refer to them as Rum i.e. Romans)
threatened to invade Arabia and the Prophet (s.a.w.) set out to Tabuk along with
his army. But the Byzantines evaded the battle. The news of the Prophets (s.a.w.)
death, that was followed by wars against apostasy in Arabia embolden the
Byzantines and the Persians. They began to amass their forces in Syria and Iraq
respectively. It was the height of wisdom, prudence, military acumen and the
courage of conviction of Abu Bakr (r.a.), which guided him to first eradicate
apostasy and then unite Arabia into fighting back the forces hostile to Islam. Abu
Bakr (r.a.) unparalleled determination, firmness and conviction in carrying out
his Amanah (Responsibilities entrusted by Allah) was crucial. As Abu Bakr (r.a.)
need to set the precedence for the future Caliphs in facing up to challenges in
defending the Muslim Ummah.

Policy of the Muslims
Abu Bakr (r.a.) was well aware of the designs of the Persians when he approved
the departure of Usamahs (r.a.) detachment. At a time when Al-Madinah itself
was under great pressure, he adopted a policy of buying time before opening a
war front against the major powers until the threat of apostasy was put down.
He, therefore, sent a small column to Iraq under Muthanna bin Harithah (r.a.)
not to start a pitched battle but to function as a raiding party meant just to deter
the Persians from attacking Arabia. This is Malaahim (War strategy) employed by
the Prophet (s.a.w.) during his lifetime that has proven to be a success. Abu Bakr
(r.a.) had in mind the same purpose when he had dispatched Usamah (r.a.)
against the Byzantines. When the situation in Najd and Yamamah came under
control, Abu Bakr (r.a.) addressed a letter to Iyad bin Ghanam (r.a.) in Najd to
take with him those Muslims who were still beyond the reach of apostasy, and
launch an attack on the upper parts of Iraq. Following this, he wrote another
letter to Khalid (r.a.) in Yamamah to turn towards the lower parts of Iraq. Both
commanders met at Uballah according to the instructions of the Caliph.

The Battle of Dhat-us-Salasil
When Khalid bin Al Walid (r.a.) took stock of his entire army at Uballah, he found
that he had not more than eighteen thousand fighters. His next target was Hafir,
the Persian province of Iraq. Hurmuz was its governor who was well known
throughout Arabia for his valour and military skill. He was the terror of India for
he so often led assaults on the Indian coast with his war fleet. Khalid (r.a.) first
addressed a letter inviting him to Islam. But Hurmuz responded with leading a
large and strong army against the Muslim commander. With his instinctive
military acumen, Khalid (r.a.) divided his army into three parts. He then handed
over the command of one part to Adi bin Hatim (r.a.), another part he entrusted
to Qaqa bin Amr (r.a.) and the third one he kept with himself. All the three wings
marched ahead to meet at Hafir with the difference of a one-day-journey and
pitched their camps facing the Persian army. First of all, Khalid (r.a.) himself
came out and threw a challenge to Hurmuz for a duel. He responded to the call
and stepped forward. Both the commanders got down from their horses. Khalid
(r.a.) was the first to strike. Hurmuz made a hasty retreat and parried the stroke
then he struck Khalid (r.a.) with agility. Khalid (r.a.) got up quickly, rushed
forward and snatched away his sword by twisting his wrist. Now Hurmuz clasped
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his body, which led to wrestling between the two. Khalid (r.a.) lifted him high by
his waist with lightening speed and then threw him on the ground so forcefully
that he failed to move. Khalid (r.a.) then got on his chest, and killed him. When a
squad of the Persian army witnessed its commander being overpowered, it moved
ahead to help him but Qaqa bin Amr (r.a.) intercepted and fought on. Following
this, troops from both sides fell on one another and a fierce battle broke out. But
the Persians could not withstand the heavy onslaught and fled in panic. Hurmuz
was such an exalted governor and commander among his people that he wore a
crown on his head. This costly crown came to Khalid (r.a.) and it was valued at
one hundred thousand dinars. A section of the Persian army had chained
themselves with the determination of winning or dying. This battle is known as
Dhat-us-Salasil because of these chains. But they had to break their chains and
flee leaving thousands of men dead and injured. Muthanna (r.a.) rode ahead to
the Fort of Hisnul Mar`ah, held by a lady named Qamarzad relation of Persian
royalty. The Muslim troops besieged the fort and called her to Islam or pay
Jizyah. She surrendered; accepted Islam and Muthanna (r.a.) married her.

The Battle of Mazar and Walajah
The Persian ruler immediately sent reinforcements, after the news of Hurmuzs
death and his fleeing soldiers met the reinforcements. The fighters of the
reinforcements encouraged them to have an encounter with the Muslim troops.
They encamped at a canal and the Muslim fighters marched on to meet them at
Mazar. During the ferocious fight, all the three generals, Qarin, Qibad and
Anushjan, were killed leaving behind thousands dead and a large number of
fleeing soldiers drowned in the canal. As a follow-up action after the conquest of
the province, Khalid (r.a.) made the inhabitants pay the Jizyah (Tax for Non-
Muslims living in Muslim Territory - Dhimmi) and appointed a Muslim governor
to run the administration according to Shari`ah.

After Qarin and the other generals were killed, the Persian ruler sent a well-
known horseman Andarzagar to lead the Persian army, which set out from
Madain and arrived at Walajah. Another general, Bahman Jadwaih led a strong
army marched towards Walajah. Meanwhile, Khalid (r.a.) marched with his
troops and launched an attack on the Persian army, which was routed after a
fierce battle. Their general also died of thirst right on the battlefield. However,
Bahman Jadwaih reached Ullais and the surviving Persian troops joined his
army. Many Christian Arabs also extended their unconditional support to them.
Informed of the presence of a large army at Ullais, Khalid (r.a.) himself marched
ahead and launched his attack. Khalid (r.a.) first called a man for a duel. Malik
bin Qais was sent from the Persian camp and Khalid (r.a.) killed him. Then, an
all-out battle started, which resulted in the defeat of the Persian army.

Conquest of Hirah
From Ullais, Khalid (r.a.) marched to Hirah (Iraq region) and besieged it. When
the siege drew long and the citizens were tired of it, the chief of Hirah, Amr bin
Abdul-Masih along with others appeared before the Muslim commander. The
Persian general and army had already fled in panic with the news of the demise
of Chosroes Ardashir. Abdul Masih won peace in return for two hundred
thousand dirhams as tribute. After the conquest, Khalid (r.a.) sent Dirar bin Al
Azwar (r.a.), Dirar bin Al-Khattab (r.a.), Qaqa bin Amr (r.a.), Muthanna bin
Harithah (r.a.) and Uyainah bin Ash-Shamas (r.a.) at the head of small columns
to make the surrounding tribes and settlers accept either the Jizyah or Islam.
Either choice guaranteed safety as the legal status of a citizen under Shari`ah.
Thus the entire territory up to the River Tigris fell to Khalid bin Al Walid (r.a.).
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53
Message of Khalid (r.a.)
From Hirah, Khalid (r.a.) sent letters to the respected individuals among the
tribes in Al Hirah and circulars to the feudal lords. In the letter addressed to the
influential persons of Persia he wrote:
All praise is due to Allah Who created chaos in your system and slackened your
hypocrisy and broke your unity. Had we not invaded this country, it would have
been disastrous for you. Now it is better for you to obey us and we shall leave your
territory and go somewhere else. If you refuse to obey us, you will come across
such people who love death as you love your life
Another general circular carried the following:

Glorified is Allah the Almighty Who humbled your pride, broke your alliance to
pieces and razed your grandeur to the ground. Hence do accept Islam and you will
be safe or seek our protection to become Dhimmi and pay the Jizyah, otherwise, I
have brought to you a people who keep death as dear as you love drinking.

The Arab tribes and their ally, the Persian rejected these letters and circulars and
remain keen to fight. The style of the language composed by Khalid (r.a.) could
have also angered them. Anyway Khalid (r.a.) was not known for having linguistic
skills. As a result it brought unity among them and they supported their chief
and the Persian rulers unanimously to confront Khalid (r.a.).

Conquest of Anbar
The Persians collected a big force in Anbar and appointed Sherzad, the ruler of
Sabat as its commander. Khalid (r.a.) marched from Hirah to Anbar. Sherzad had
erected a high mound of clay outside the ramparts of their fort to consolidate his
position. When Khalid (r.a.) surrounded Anbar, the besieged soldiers showered
arrows on the Muslim army as a result about one thousand Muslim fighters were
injured. But the lion-hearted commander of the Muslim forces was not to be
intimidated through such tactics and devices. He outsmarted his enemy by
slaughtering the weak and exhausted camels and piling them up to reach the
ramparts and then defeat the enemy thoroughly. Although the Persians showed
courage, they had to surrender before the Muslims who outwitted them in every
department of warfare. When Sherzad saw that a Muslim victory was near, he
sent his men to Khalid (r.a.) on a peace mission. Khalid (r.a.) replied that he
could allow Sherzad to leave the city peacefully along with a few comrades with
provisions for not more than three days. So, Sherzad left the city and Khalid (r.a.)
entered it victoriously. He then put Zabarqan bin Badr in charge of Anbar and
marched to Ain-ut-Tamr. Uqbah bin Uqbah heard of the advancement of Muslim
troops and contacted the Persian Commander Mehran bin Bahram to say that
only Arabs knew the war tactics of the Arabs, so they (Uqbahs men) should be
allowed to confront the Muslim forces. Mehran was happy enough to give his
consent to this proposal. Uqbah was too excited to come out first and challenge
for a duel. Khalid (r.a.) stepped forward and captured him alive, as a result his
men fled in fear but they were also taken captive. Mehran bin Bahram grew so
awe-stricken that he fled his fort, which later fell to the Muslim army.

Conquest of Dumat-Al-Jandal (Upper Iraq)
Khalid (r.a.) finished his task in a comparatively short period but Iyad bin
Ghanam (r.a.) dispatched about the same time, was still engaged on his mission.
His target of attack was a large territory forming part of Iraq, Iran and Syria and
so his combats affected Persia and Heraclius equally. The time when Khalid (r.a.)
conquered Ain-ut-Tamr, Iyad (r.a.) engaged the rulers of Dumat Al-Jandal after
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winning victories over the polytheists and Christian tribes. Dumat Al-Jandal had
two rulers, Ukaidir bin Malik and Judi bin Rabiah, who had collected all the
Christians of the surrounding areas against the Muslims. In this distressing
situation, Iyad (r.a.) addressed a letter to Khalid (r.a.) who was at Ain-ut-Tamr, to
come to his help against the huge army of the enemy. Khalid (r.a.) appointed
Qaqa bin Amr (r.a.) his deputy in Hirah and proceeded to Dumat Al-Jandal
hurriedly. The news of Khalids (r.a.) arrival disheartened some among the tribes.
As such, Ukaidir counselled Judi to make peace with the Muslims but he and
other Christian chiefs rejected the proposal outright. At last Ukaidir broke his
relations with them and left alone to some unknown place. A small column of the
Muslims intercepted him on the way and he died fighting. Khalid (r.a.) launched
his attack from another side and challenged the enemy commander for a duel.
Judi stepped forward but was captured by Khalid (r.a.) and this averted a full-
scale battle as Judis men fled the battleground. At the same time, Iyad bin
Ghanam (r.a.), also prevailed over his opponents as they also fled for their lives.

When the Persians noticed that Khalid bin Al Walid (r.a.) was away from Hirah,
they made an all-out effort to take back the province and turn out the Muslim
administrators from the territory. The Arab tribes also lent their support to
avenge the killing of their chief, Uqbah bin Uqbah. Two well-known Persian
generals Zarmahr and Rozbah marched at the head of a huge army. Qaqa bin
Amr (r.a.) the deputy of Khalid (r.a.) in Hirah, also divided his force in two parts,
under Abu Laila (r.a.) and himself and challenged the enemy at Husaid. After a
heavy fight, both the generals and more than half of their army fell to the Muslim
assault. The rest of their men fled to Khanafis where their commander
Bahbudhan was stationed with a large army, with a battle plan. When Abu Laila
(r.a.) reached Khanafis in pursuit of the fleeing enemy, Bahbudhan marched to
Mudaiyah where Hudhail bin Imran along with other Arab chiefs were awaiting
for the opportunity to engage the Muslims in a battle. In the meantime, Khalid
(r.a.) finished his task in Dumat Al-Jandal and hurried back to Hirah.

The Battle of Mudaiyah
Khalid (r.a.) took over the command of the entire Muslim army and divided it into
three parts to attack from three different sides. Qaqa (r.a.), Abu Laila (r.a.) and
Khalid (r.a.) himself attacked from three sides as already decided upon. Hudhail
fled for his life but the other generals along with a large number of men were put
to death. Among the persons killed were Abdul-Uzza bin Abu Ruhm and Labid
bin Jarir who sided with the opponents of Islam under compulsion in spite of
being Muslims. When Abu Bakr (r.a.) came to know of this, he paid blood money
to their relatives and ordered to treat their children well. Umar (r.a.) was already
angry with Khalid (r.a.) on account of Malik bin Nuwairahs assassination, and
this incident added fuel to the flames. However, Abu Bakr (r.a.) did not seek any
explanation from Khalid (r.a.) and exonerated him with the remark: Anyone who
accompanies the polytheists will meet with the same calamity.

The Battle of Firad
Firad was the meeting-ground of Persia, Syria and Arabia, and was adjacent to
Dumat Al-Jandal. It was the place where Banu Taghlib, Banu Namir and Banu
Iyyad had already collected and the Byzantine army was camping nearby to back
them. Now the series of battles fought with the Persian forces in the lower areas
of Iraq had reached the Byzantine camp. Khalid (r.a.) arrived at Firad for a battle.
The Byzantine army was across the river Euphrates and sent a message to the
Muslim commander to either cross the river or let them cross it. Khalid (r.a.)
asked them to cross the river and they crossed over.
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Now both the forces were facing each other on the same side of the river. The
Muslim army was extremely exhausted on account of the continuous travelling
and fighting while the Byzantines were fresh and about eight or ten-fold more in
number. The battle broke out and went on the whole day. But surprisingly, the
Byzantines fled the field tasting their worst defeat and leaving behind thousands
dead. After finishing this task, Khalid (r.a.) sent his army back to Hirah and he
himself left secretly for Makkah to perform Hajj in the company of only a few
persons. After the Hajj, Khalid (r.a.) hurried back to Hirah. But the news of his
journey to Makkah could not be kept secret and it gradually reached the ears of
Abu Bakr (r.a.). He, however, asked Khalid (r.a.) not to repeat it in future and
expressed his displeasure over this act of carelessness. Khalid (r.a.) stayed in
Hirah up to Rabi Al-Awwal 13 AH, which he had entered in Muharram 12 AH.



The Success of Khalid bin Al Walid (r.a.)
During this period Khalid bin Al Walid (r.a.) faced his enemies at every step and
fought scores of fierce battles against formidable armies outnumbering Muslim
forces in every battle but beating them thoroughly in each one. The Byzantine
and Persian powers used to shudder from within at the mention of Khalid bin Al
Walids (r.a.) name. Human history cannot perhaps, give any other example of so
many successive victories in so short a period with so little resources. But Khalid
(r.a.) did it with his matchless military acumen, dauntless courage, and
unflinching determination. However, we cannot ignore the spirit behind all his
deeds of wonder that is Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (r.a.). The Caliph of the Prophet
(s.a.w.) acquainted himself daily, with the details of the movements of the Muslim
forces and never made any delay in sending instructions best suited to the
situation. He played a part in guiding wisely and overall, trusting Khalid (r.a.) in
his heart, of his trustworthiness and capabilities.


Map that shows
Khalids (r.a.)
campaigns against the
Persian in Al Hirah
(Iraq) marching on
from his success
against the apostates
in Arabia
Byzantine
Empire
PERSIA
Sassanid
Empire
Ar-Rashidun Caliphate
ARABIA