Migration to Madinah

Immediate Measures After Migration to Madinah

First Year of Hijra

Outline the events in Madinah that immediately followed the Hijra, mentioning especially the Emigrants (Muhajirin) and helpers (The Ansars).

Migration to Madina

On Allah’s command, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) escaped secretly from Makkah to Madinah with his friend Abu Bakr (R.A.).They hid inside the Thaur Cave for three days. After that, they carried on their journey with Amir bin Fuhayra (slave) and Abdullah bin Uraiqit (guide). They reached Quba on Monday, from where Hazrat Ali (R.A.) joined them. They built the first mosque of Islam, ‘Masjid-e-Quba’ during their stay. On Friday, they reached the quarters of Banu Salim. There, the Prophet (S.A.W.) delivered the sermon and performed the congregational prayer of Friday. 

Prophet’s (S.A.W.) Welcome to the City

On the other hand, the residents of Madina were impatiently waiting for the Prophet (S.A.W.) to welcome them. Girls were singing a welcome song for the Prophet (S.A.W.). Upon the arrival of Prophet (S.A.W.), the women and children of Madina greeted Prophet (S.A.W.) enthusiastically. The city was gradually referred to as “Madina-tun-Nabi”. It means, ‘The City of Prophet’ or “Al Madina-tul-Munawwara”. Later on, it was shortened in Madinah.

When Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) passed through the city, many people invited him to stay with them. However, He (S.A.W.) deferred it to his she-camel (al Qaswa) for final decision. Prophet (S.A.W.) said, “Let it go its own way. It is under orders.” At the site that Prophet (S.A.W.) purchased for building a mosque and his house, eventually, the she-camel knelt. This land belonged to two orphans named Sahal and Sohail. 

Construction of Masjid Nabwi

During the construction of the mosque (Masjid-e-Nabvi) and the Prophet’s (S.A.W.) house, He (S.A.W.) resided in the home of Hazrat Abu Ayub Ansari (R.A.). The Prophet (S.A.W.) participated with Muhajrin in constructing this simple square building. Unbaked blocks were utilised to make walls, and the roof was constructed with mud, date palm leaves, and stones. Additionally, the date palm tree trunks were employed to set up pillars. Sand with pebbles was spread throughout the ground to make the floor. Similarly, adjacent to the mosque for the Prophet (S.A.W.) and his family, two rooms were built, one for Saudah (R.A.) and one for Aisha (R.A.).

This mosque was the centre of worship and an educational platform for Muslims. Therefore, Suffah Bench (the study circle) was established on its premises for learning and teaching. Above all, the mosque was the headquarters for Muslims to discuss affairs of the state.

Adhan System

The system of Adhan was introduced for congregational prayers among believers. For this purpose, the Prophet (S.A.W.) invited companions to share their suggestions. Some companions suggested ringing the bell, like the Christians whereas, others recommended blowing horns, like the Jews yet, the Prophet (S.A.W.) did not agree with both viewpoints.

At last, Umar (R.A.) put forward the opinion of appointing someone to call loudly. Hazrat Abdullah bin Zaid (R.A.) also narrated his dream in which he saw a man who taught him the words of Adhan. Hazrat Umar (R.A.) also had a similar dream. On the command of the Prophet (S.A.W.), Hazrat Abdullah bin Zaid (R.A.) spoke those words to Bilal ibn Rabah (R.A.). Bilal (R.A.) memorised the words of Adhan and called out for the prayer with these words to the Muslims of Madina. Thus, Bilal ibn Rabah became the first Muezzin of Islam.

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Enmity Between Aus and Khazraj

At that time, the Aus and Khazraj clans resided in Madinah. Their rivalry led to numerous murders and acts of violence between them. They chose Abdullah bin Ubai as their leader in an attempt to put an end to their animosity, but the entire situation changed after the arrival of the Prophet (S.A.W.). On becoming the leader of Madinah, the Prophet (S.A.W.) put an end to their hatred. They were known as ‘Ansars’ (the helpers of the Prophet (S.A.W.).

Establishment of Brotherhood

The creation of the brotherhood between the Muhajirin and Ansars (residents of Madinah who accepted Islam) was one of the most critical issues after the migration. Muhajirin emigrated to Madina, abandoning their homelands and belongings behind, which was their great sacrifice for the sake of the survival of Islam. Their condition was dire now, as they were destitute and needful of shelter.

Therefore, the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.) directed Ansar to share their properties and business with Muhajrins. Saad bin Rabi’a (Ansari) was paired with Abdul Rahman bin Auf (immigrant), who had voluntarily offered his half possession to Abul Rahman bin Auf. In contrast, the Prophet (S.A.W.) was linked with Ali (R.A.). This sacrifice of Muhajirin and Ansar is highlighted in chapter 8, verse 72 of the Holy Quran in the following words:

“Those who believed and adopted exile, and fought for the faith, with their property and their persons, in the cause of Allah, as well as those who gave (them) asylum and aid these are all friends and protectors, one of another.” 
(8:72) Al Anfal 

Separate Islamic State of Madina

The alliance between Muhajirin and Ansar in Madina genuinely supported the Prophet (S.A.W.) in fighting against the Quraish for flourishing Islam and defending the newly founded Islamic state. So, as of shortly, Madinah (Madina-tun-Nabi), a distinct Islamic state, was founded with the aid of the Ansars and the sacrifice of Muhajirin.

Other Developments after the Migration to Madinah

At the time, there were Jewish and non-Muslim tribes living in Madinah. Prophet (S.A.W.) focused on solving the problem of mutual relations among inhabitants living in Madina. To Resolve this critical issue, He (S.A.W.) involved all Jewish and non-Muslim tribes in a treaty called ‘The Charter of Madinah’. Its objective was to provide them with privileges and responsibilities for their full rights and benefits. The distribution of religious and economic freedom, as well as social rights, was likewise included in this treaty.

Regardless, loyalty to the state of Madinah was obligatory for both parties to establish peace in the region and help each other in state matters, specifically in case of any external attacks. But as per the agreement, the Prophet’s (S.A.W.) judgment would be considered final if there was any disagreement.

Explain the significance of these events as an example for Muslims today.

Establishing a Peaceful Society

First, soon after the migration to Madina, Prophet (S.A.W.) concentrated on the necessity of a peaceful society. To achieve this goal, He (S.A.W.) dissolved the hostility between the two major tribes of Madina, Aus and Khazraj, which had been rivals for years. On the other hand, the Prophet (S.A.W.) laid the foundation of a brotherhood between Ansar and Muhajirin to create a strong bond. Further, the distribution of the wealth of Ansar with the Muhajirin between them also increased their love and power. As a result, we learn that sacrifice and generosity can help to create strong bonds with others.

Terms of Treaty of Hudaibya

In the year 628 A.D, in the month of Dhul Qadah, The Prophet (S.A.W.) set out from Madinah for hajj along with 1400 Muhajireen …

Causes of the Battle of Badr

The Quraysh were jealous of the growing power of the Prophet (S.A.W.). Also, they were immensely displeased with the people of …

Agreement Between Muslims and Non-Muslims

Next, the Prophet (S.A.W.) invited the Jews and non-Muslims to sign an agreement with the Muslims. According to this treaty, Muslims promised to provide all the essential liberties, so the people of Madinah were satisfied. Consequently, a peaceful society came into being. Today, it is an example for Muslims to understand the importance of having peace in society. It also teaches that even if the citizens are non-Muslim, we should provide them with equal rights.

Importance of Masjid-e-Nabwi

Lastly, the establishment of the Masjid-e Nabwi mosque had multiple goals. It was a place for the Muslims to worship Allah, as well as a platform for Muslims to learn, teach and discuss state affairs. Thus, we can conclude that mosques are not solely for worship but can be used for learning and discussing Muslim community welfare.

In short, the building of the Masjid e Nabi has been of great significance in the believers’ lives, so even today, Muslims visit the place after pilgrimage or short pilgrimage.

Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “No journey should be made to visit mosques except for three: this mosque of mine [in Madeenah], al-Masjid al-Haram [in Makkah] and al-Masjid al-Aqsa [in al-Quds/Jerusalem]”.