A Brief Historical Description of Makkah — The Birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)
The ancient city of Makkah is located in a barren valley surrounded by rugged hills and arid desert terrain in the Hejaz region of the Arabian Peninsula. Being one of the holiest places in Islam and known as the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), it holds profound historical and spiritual significance. In Islamic tradition, Makkah holds immense sanctity as the home to the Ka’ba, the first House of Worship dedicated to Allah (SWT), the Creator of the universe and mankind. The city was originally established by Prophet Adam (AS) and later rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Prophet Ismail (AS).
Makkah flourished into a center of trade and pilgrimage due to the miraculous Zamzam well, which emerged by Allah’s decree to sustain the family of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). Over time, the city became a hub of monotheistic worship and a significant cultural and economic nexus for Arabia. This sacred land remains the spiritual heart of Islam, drawing millions of pilgrims from around the world every year.
The Chapter – 1 of this book sets the stage for understanding the profound relationship between Makkah’s history and the mission of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), whose life was destined to bring Allah’s (SWT) final message to humanity.
Ka’ba – The First House of Worship for Humanity
The Ka’ba, located at Makkah, is regarded as the first House of Worship. It was initially established for the worship of Allah (SWT) during the time of Prophet Adam (AS), the first human and father of humanity. However, it was destroyed during the great deluge of Prophet Noah’s (AS) time, leaving Makkah barren and uninhabited for centuries. Despite this desolation, the sanctity of the site was preserved by Allah’s (SWT) will. Later, Allah (SWT) chose Prophet Ibrahim (AS) for the sacred mission of rebuilding the Ka’ba, restoring it as a center of monotheistic worship.
According to Allah’s (SWT) instructions, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) restored the cube-shaped structure of this sacred house for mankind’s worship and pilgrimage and set ‘Hajre Aswad’ (a heavenly stone of black color) at the wall of Ka’ba. ‘Maqam–e–Ibrahim’ (a soft stone used by Ibrahim (AS) to stand on it while building Ka’ba) was placed beside the structure of Ka’ba as a sacred spot to offer prayer there. After the completion of the work of Ka’ba, Allah (SWT) asked Ibrahim (AS) to call the people to visit Ka’ba and perform Hajj and Umrah, and to glorify and praise Him while doing ‘Tawaf’ (seven times walking around Ka’ba). Since then, Holy Ka’ba has been regarded as the focal point for performing Hajj and Umrah.
Ka’ba – The Spiritual Center of the Muslim World:
– The Ka’ba is the holiest site in Islam and serves as the Qibla, the direction toward which Muslims around the globe face during their prayers (Salah).
– It is regarded as the “House of Allah” and is central to Islamic acts of worship, particularly during Hajj and Umrah. Allah (SWT) says:
“Allah has chosen Ka’ba, the Sacred House, a sanctuary for the people….” (Surah Maidah, 5:97)
- Holy Ka’ba’s Significance:
Its significance is deeply rooted in Islamic history, as it is associated with Prophets Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS), who rebuilt it as a symbol of monotheism.
“And We made the House a focal point for the people and a sanctuary. Use ‘Makam-e-Ibrahim’ as a place of prayer. And We commanded Ibrahim and Ismail, ‘Sanctify My House for those who perform Tawaf around it, and those who stay in it, and those who bow and prostrate.” (Surah Baqarah, 2:125)
- Fixing Ka’ba as Qibla of Muslim Ummah:
During the time of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), Allah (SWT) designated Ka’ba as the ‘Qibla’ (point of orientation) for the Muslim Ummah. It is obligatory for all Muslims, wherever they stay in the world, to turn their faces towards the direction of Ka’ba while performing daily Salat. The turning of the face towards Qibla – the House of Allah, is the symbol of unity and oneness of the whole Ummah. It creates a universal brotherhood among them as the obedient servants of Almighty Allah.
“Wherever you may go, turn your face in the direction of the sacred Mosque; and wherever you are, turn your face thither; that is indeed the truth from the Lord. And Allah is not unmindful of what you do.” (Surah Baqarah, 2:149)
- Significance of performing Hajj:
–It is the greatest convention of the Muslim Ummah as well as the largest assembly of humanity.
— Hajj is the symbol of sincere devotion and submission to the Almighty Allah. It is a great opportunity to purify souls and cleanse sins by performing Hajj.
— It enhances the unity, solidarity, and brotherhood of the Muslim Ummah and demonstrates universal peace and equality.
— Hajj shows a unique scenario of simplicity and humbleness amid the gathering of devotees with two pieces of white unsewn clothing.
— Hajj has cleared all geographical, racial, linguistic, and cultural barriers and established the universality of the religion of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) says:
“One who comes to this House for Hajj and avoids all lewdness and sins, he returns as he was on the day his mother gave birth to him.” (Bukhari & Muslim).
Prophet Ibrahim (AS): The Founder of Makkah
Allah (SWT) commanded Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to settle his wife, Hager (AS), and their infant son, Ismail (AS), in the barren and isolated valley of Makkah. This test of faith and obedience became a timeless example of trust in Allah’s wisdom.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) complied with unwavering trust, leaving his family with limited provisions. The story is vividly captured in the following narration:
Hadith from Sahih Bukhari
Imam Al–Bukhari, in his collection of authentic narrations, reported on the authority of Ibn Abbas (RA) wherein the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“Prophet Ibrahim (AS) once journeyed from ancient Syria to Makkah, accompanied by his wife Hager (AS) and their infant son, Ismail (AS), who was still a suckling child. At that time, Makkah was a barren and desolate valley, devoid of water or any human habitation. Upon reaching Makkah, Ibrahim (AS) settled his wife and child under the shade of a tree. He left them with only a small provision – a bag of dates and a pot of water. With his heart heavy yet steadfast in his faith, he began his return journey to ancient Syria, leaving his family behind as per Allah’s command.”
As Ibrahim (AS) departed, his wife Hager (AS), overwhelmed by the stark isolation of the valley, called out to him:
“Where are you going? How can you leave us in this deserted valley that has neither humans nor anything else (in terms of life)?”
She repeated her plea several times, yet Ibrahim (AS) did not respond. Finally, she asked:
“Did Allah command you to do this?” Ibrahim (AS) turned to her and replied: “Yes”. Upon hearing this, Hager (AS) displayed immense faith and trust in Allah, saying: “Then He shall never forsake us.”
- A Unique Example of Faith and Reliance upon Allah (SWT)
This remarkable demonstration of faith by both Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hager (AS) became a timeless example of reliance on Allah’s will and trust in His wisdom. Their story remains a cornerstone of Islamic teachings, illustrating the virtues of patience, submission, and faith in the face of challenges.
This challenging act symbolized Prophet Ibrahim’ (AS) and his wife’s absolute submission to Allah’s will and his reliance on Him alone. His steadfastness and Hager’s resilience became timeless examples of faith and trust in Allah (SWT), setting the stage for the rebuilding of the Ka’ba and the eventual flourishing of Makkah as a center of monotheism and devotion.
The Miracle of Zamzam Fountain
As Prophet Ibrahim (AS) prepared to leave his beloved wife and son in the barren land of Makkah, he earnestly prayed to Almighty Allah (SWT) to sustain the sacred place with food and water saying:
“O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in a valley without cultivation, by Thy Sacred House; in order, O our Lord, that they may establish regular Prayer: so fill the hearts of some among men with love towards them, and feed them with fruits: so that they may give thanks.” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:37)
After Ibrahim (AS) left, entrusting his wife Hager (AS) and their infant son Ismail (AS) to Allah’s care with a limited supply of food and water, their provisions soon ran out. Overwhelmed by thirst, Hager began searching desperately for water, running back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Upon returning to her son, she was astonished to find a fountain of water gushing forth near where Ismail (AS) lay.
This divine blessing not only quenched their thirst but also became a source of sustenance for future generations. Thus, Allah (SWT) accepted the prayer of Ibrahim (AS) by miraculously creating a fountain near the Ka’ba. This fountain, famously known as the ‘Zamzam’ well, symbolized Allah’s mercy and acceptance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) prayers for Makkah, became a source of sustenance still exists today, providing fresh and pure water.
This episode exemplifies the resilience of Hager (AS) and the profound faith of both parents.
Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) Prayer for Makkah’s Prosperity
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) made a heartfelt supplication for Makkah to become a land of peace, security, and abundance:
“And remember Abraham said: ‘My Lord, make this a City of Peace, and feed its people with fruits,-such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.’ He said: ‘(Yea), and such as reject Faith, – for a while will I grant them their pleasure but will soon drive them to the torment of Fire, – an evil destination (indeed)!” (Surah Baqarah, 2:126)
Another prayer emphasizes Ibrahim’s (AS) concern for monotheism:
“(Remember) Abraham said: “O my Lord! make this city one of peace and security: and preserve me and my sons from worshipping idols.” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:35)
The Flourishing of Makkah
Over time, the availability of water attracted people of Zohram tribe from nearby areas to settle there. Travelers and merchants also began using it as a stopping point during their journeys, marking the beginnings of Makkah’s settlement. Eventually, the once barren land of Makkah flourished into a thriving hub of population, commerce, and sustenance, fulfilling Allah’s divine plan.
The Naming of Makkah
The City of Makkah, the heart of unity and worship for the Muslim world, has been referred to by numerous names in the Holy Qur’an. One such name is Makkah, which signifies “to eradicate” or “to prevent.” This name reflects the city’s role in preventing sins and eliminating oppressors who engage in wrongdoing. As Allah (SWT) states:
“He has withheld their hands from you and your hands from them in Makkah after He had made you victorious over them. And Allah is Seer of what you do.” (Surah Al–Fat–h, 48:24)
- Other names of Makkah
— Another name for Makkah is Bakka (Qur’an: Aal–e—Imran, 3:96), which carries a similar meaning, symbolizing the uprooting of arrogance and pride.
— Makkah is also called Umm al–Qura, meaning “the mother of cities” (Qur’an: Surah Al—An’am, 6:92), highlighting its central significance.
— Additionally, Makkah is known as Balad al–Amin, “the city of peace” (Surah Ibrahim, 14:35 and Surah At–Tin 95:3), and Haram al–Amin, “the safe haven” (Surah Al–Qasas: 28:57).
The Names of Ka’ba
At the heart of Makkah lies the oldest house of worship in the world Baitullah (the House of Allah, Qur’an: 22:26), renowned globally as the Ka’ba. It is also referred to as:
– Bait al–Atiq (the Ancient House), Surah Al-Hajj: 22:33,
– Masjid al–Haram (the Sacred Mosque), Surah Al-Maidah: 5:97.
These names collectively emphasize the sanctity, peace, and historical importance of this revered city of Makkah.
The well–known historian William Moore wrote in his book ‘The Life of Muhammad’:
“In fact, from time immemorial, this temple has been regarded as the place of worship for the Arabs.”
Designing and Rebuilding of Ka’ba
The Ka’ba was originally built during the time of Prophet Adam (AS), the first human being, as the house dedicated to the worship of Allah (SWT). It was modeled after Baitul Ma’mur, the Celestial House of Worship for the Angels. However, during the time of Prophet Noah (AS), the Ka’ba was damaged by the great deluge. After a long period of time, Allah (SWT) willed to restore the Ka’ba to its original form. This divine task was undertaken during the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
By the command and guidance of Almighty Allah (SWT), Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Prophet Ismail (AS) dedicated themselves to making the Ka’ba a dignified and blessed House of worship for Allah alone. They rebuilt the glorious and blessed Ka’ba on its original foundation. The Angel Jibril (AS) marked the site by placing the stones.
According to Allah’s (SWT) instructions, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) restored the cube–shaped structure of this sacred house for mankind’s worship and pilgrimage and set ‘Hajre Aswad’ (a heavenly stone of black color) at the wall of Ka’ba. ‘Maqam-e-Ibrahim’ (a soft stone used by Ibrahim AS to stand on it while building Ka’ba) was placed beside the structure of Ka’ba as a sacred spot to offer prayer there.
Regarding this task of rebuilding the Ka’ba Allah (SWT) says:
“Behold! We gave the site, to Abraham, of the (Sacred) House, (saying): ‘Associate not anything (in worship) with Me; and sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or stand up, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer)’.” (Surah Hajj, 22:26)
After constructing the Ka’ba, Allah (SWT) designated it as an assembly for humanity and a sanctuary of peace and safety, free from injustice and oppression. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sanctify the Ka’ba for those who would worship there by bowing and prostrating before Him. In compliance with Allah’s command, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) called upon humanity to perform Tawaf and Hajj rituals around the Ka’ba. Since then, it has been established as a central place of worship for the entire Muslim Ummah. This command is articulated in the Qur’an:
“And remember We made the House a place of assembly for people and a place of safety. And take, (O believers), the Maqam of Ibrahim as a place of prayer. And We charged Ibrahim and Isma’il, saying, ‘Sanctify My House for those who perform Tawaf, those who are staying [there] for worship, and those who bow and prostrate [in prayer].'” (Surah Baqarah, 2:125)
- Heartfelt Supplication of Father and Son during Rebuilding of the Ka’ba:
Prophet Ismail (AS), the young son of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), tirelessly assisted his father in this sacred building work. While laying the foundation of the Ka’ba, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS) prayed to Allah Almighty (SWT). Their heartfelt supplication, as mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, was:
“And remember Abraham and Isma’il raised the foundations of the House (with this prayer): ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For You are the All–Hearing, the All–knowing.’ ‘Our Lord! make of us Muslims, bowing to Your (Will), and of our progeny a people Muslim, bowing to You (will); and show us our place for the celebration of (due) rites; and turn unto us (in Mercy); for You are the Oft Returning, Most Merciful.’ ‘Our Lord! send amongst them a Messenger of their own, who shall rehearse Your Signs to them and instruct them in scripture and wisdom, and sanctify them: For You are the Exalted in Might, the Wise’.” (Surah Baqarah, 2:127–129)
The last part of their prayer indicates the blessing for the upcoming Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the direct descendant and successor of Prophet Ismail (AS).
The Sanctity and Security of Ka’ba
Allah (SWT) declared Ka’ba a sacred house as well as a place of safety and security. The following verses were revealed in the Holy Qur’an dignifying the sanctity of this ancient House of Worship:
“Allah made the Ka’ba, the Sacred House, an asylum of security for men, as also the Sacred Months, the animals for offerings, and the garlands that mark them: That you may know that Allah hath knowledge of what is in the heavens and on earth and that Allah is well acquainted with all things.” (Surah Maidah, 5:97)
“For the covenants (of security and safeguard enjoyed) by the Quraish. Their covenants (covering) journeys by winter and summer, – Let them adore the Lord of this House, Who provides them with food against hunger, and with security against fear (of danger).” (Surah Quraysh, 106: 1—4)
- “The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka: Full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of being.” (Surah Aal–e–Imran, 3:96).
Significance of Makkah in Islamic History
Makkah’s sanctity was solidified when Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the final Messenger of Allah, was born in this city. It became the cradle of Islam, where the message of monotheism was revived and disseminated to the world.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hager’s (AS) trials and the miraculous events of Makkah serve as a testament to the virtues of faith, patience, and submission to Allah (SWT). These foundational stories laid the groundwork for the spiritual and historical significance of Makkah in the life of the Muslim Ummah.
The Holy Ka’ba in Makkah serves as the unifying focal point for Muslims worldwide. The growth of Islam and its civilization has centered around this sacred Ka’ba. For Muslims living in any corner of the globe, the Ka’ba is their ‘Qibla’—the direction they face during their prayers. Both Muslim men and women are required to offer their prayers while facing the holy Ka’ba. Moreover, the annual Hajj pilgrimage is celebrated by physically circumambulating this revered Ka’ba.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was a devoted advocate of pure monotheism, which Allah (SWT) referred to his path as “Haneef” – the purest form of monotheism (Qur’an 3:95). Ibrahim (AS) totally rejected any idea of associating any partners with Allah (SWT) and remained steadfast in his unwavering commitment to ‘Tawheed’ (the oneness of Allah). To this regard, Allah (SWT) mentioned several times in the Qur’an about Prophet Ibrahim (AS):
“Ibrahim was a community in himself, devoted to Allah, a monotheist, and was not of the polytheists. Thankful for His blessings. He (Allah) chose him and guided him to a straight path. And We gave him goodness in this world, and in the Hereafter, he will be among the righteous.” (Surah An–Nahl, 16:120–122)
Allah (SWT) also called the people to follow the best example of Ibrahim (AS) in the following verses:
“You have had an excellent example in Ibrahim and those with him; when they said to their people, ‘We are quit of you, and what you worship apart from Allah. We denounce you. Enmity and hatred have surfaced between us and you, forever, until you believe in Allah alone’…..” (Surah Al–Haqqa, 60:4)
“And who is better in religion than he who submits himself wholly to Allah, and is a doer of good, and follows the true faith of Ibrahim the Monotheist? Allah has chosen Ibrahim for a friend.” (Surah An–Nisa, 4:125)
“And Ibrahim enjoined his sons, and Yaqoob (Jacob – grandson) too, ‘O my sons, Allah has chosen this religion for you, so do not die unless being Muslims (the submitted ones)’.” (Surah Baqarah, 2:132)
Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Religious and Spiritual Connection with Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
Allah (SWT) honored Prophet Ibrahim (AS) in the Qur’an, proclaiming him as the spiritual forefather of the Muslim Ummah. The legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was not confined to ancestral ties alone; it also encompassed the profound spiritual heritage of ‘Deen–e—Haneef’ of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), which became the foundation of the Islamic faith preached by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
This pure monotheism became the foundation of the Islamic faith and was central to the message preached by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), serving as a continuation of Ibrahim’s (AS) divine mission. Allah (SWT) endorsed Prophet Ibrahim (AS) as the Spiritual Father of Muslim Ummah in the following verses:
“…. Follow the Deen of your father Ibrahim. It is He (Allah) Who has named you Muslims, both before and in this (Revelation); that the Messenger may be a witness for you, and you be witnesses for mankind! So, establish regular Prayer, give regular Charity, and hold fast to Allah. He is your Protector – the best Protecting Friend and the best Helper!” (Surah Hajj, 22:78)
“Then We inspired you (O Prophet Muhammad): ‘Follow the religion of Ibrahim, the Monotheist. He was not an idol–worshiper’.” (Surah An–Nahl, 16:123)
“Verily the people who are closest to Ibrahim are those who truly follow his path, and this Prophet (Muhammad ﷺ), as well as those who are true believers…” (Surah Aal–e–Imran, 3:68)
Islam, the chosen religion of Allah (SWT) and propagated by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), embodies perfectly with the monotheistic principles of ‘Tawheed’ upheld by Ibrahim (AS). Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was also asked to follow the path of Ibrahim (AS):
“Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), ‘My Lord has guided me to a straight path, an upright religion, the ‘Deen’(creed) of Ibrahim the ‘Haneef’ (the purest), who was not of those who associate partners with Allah.” (Surah Al—An’am, 6:161)
“Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), ‘Allah has spoken the truth, so follow the religion of Ibrahim. He was the follower of the pure religion (Monotheism); he was never from Polytheists” (Surah Aal–e–Imran, 3:95)
Prophet Ismail’s (AS) Matrimonial Relationship with Zohram Tribe
Prophet Ismail (AS) began living permanently in Makkah after it was founded by his father, Prophet Ibrahim (AS). This settlement occurred following the miraculous emergence of the Zamzam well, which provided a constant source of water in the otherwise barren region. With the availability of water, the nearby Zohram tribe sought permission from Hagar (AS), the mother of Prophet Ismail (AS), to settle in Makkah. She graciously allowed them to live there, and they became part of the growing community.
Ismail (AS) initially married a woman from the Zohram tribe. However, during one of Prophet Ibrahim’s visits to Makkah, he found her mannerisms and attitude unsatisfactory and advised his son to separate from her. Following this, Ismail (AS) married another woman from the tribe, the daughter of Muaz ibn Amr. This union was blessed with twelve children, and Makkah continued to grow as a flourishing settlement under their leadership.
Prophet Ismail (AS) served as the leader of Makkah until his passing. After his death, leadership transitioned to the Zohram tribe, which continued to play a significant role in the region’s development.
Desecration of the Ka’ba’s Sanctity by the Zohram Tribe and Quraysh of Makkah
Over the time, Zohram tribe fell into falsehood and introduced idol worship, replacing the monotheistic tradition of worshipping Allah (SWT). The Quraysh later continued this practice, desecrating the sanctity of the Ka’ba by placing numerous idols within it. The very House of Worship established by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) as a symbol of devotion to Allah (SWT) alone had been desecrated, housing 360 idols and becoming a center of polytheism. This was quite contrasting to the pure monotheistic religion preached by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He totally denounced idolatry as mentioned in the Holy Qur’an:
“…….he said: ‘O my people! I am indeed free from your (guilt) of giving partners to Allah. For me, I have set my face, firmly and truly, towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, and never shall I give partners to Allah’.” (Surah Al—An’am, 6:78 – 79)
This Holy House, which was initially dedicated to the worship of Allah (SWT) alone, lost its original character during this period.
However, following the conquest of Makkah by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), a descendant of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Ismail (AS), the Ka’ba was restored to its original sanctity. It was re-established as a place of worship for the One and Only Allah (SWT). Since then, it has remained a symbol of unity and faith for the Muslim world, with millions of Muslims performing Hajj and Umrah each year according to Islamic law.
Sealing of the Zamzam Well and its Re–excavation
Amr ibn Harith ibn Mejmam, the leader of the Zohram tribe, fearing the loss of Makkah authority to the enemy tribe of Khuzay, hid some valuable items of the Ka’ba including two golden deer received as gifts in the Zamzam well and sealed it, causing it to be lost for years.
Many years later, Abd al–Muttalib, the grandfather of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), decided to rediscover and excavate the well to meet the demand for drinking water in Makkah. But he was worried as he was not sure of its exact location. However, he was inspired by a dream that hinted its location and started its excavation. But No one was willing to help him in this work. He had only one son at that time. Finding no helping hand, he started the work with the help of his only son Harith. By the grace of Allah (SWT), after much effort, they successfully unearthed the Zamzam well and recovered its treasures along with its lost water.
In gratitude, Abd al–Muttalib vowed to sacrifice one of his future sons, which is detailed in the chapter: 3 of this book.
His determination and success took him to a unique height among the Quraysh. After his death, his son Abbas (RA) took charge of the well. After the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) retained him in this responsibility. To this day, Zamzam continues to provide its pure, blessed water to countless pilgrims, with its water level miraculously never depleting.
The Attack on Makkah by Abraha’s Elephant Army
Abraha, the Christian ruler of Yemen, grew envious of the Ka’ba’s honor and built an elaborate temple adorned with jewels to divert worshippers from Makkah. When his efforts failed, he marched toward Makkah with a massive army of elephants to destroy the Ka’ba.
He camped near Makkah, looted the surrounding areas, and seized 100 camels belonging to Abdul Muttalib, the leader of the Quraysh. When Abdul Muttalib met Abraha, he requested the return of his camels. Surprised, Abraha asked why he didn’t speak about the Ka’ba. Abdul Muttalib replied, “The Ka’ba is the house of Allah. Its protection is His responsibility, but the camels are mine, so I want them back.”
Shortly after, Abraha prepared to attack the Ka’ba, but Allah (SWT) sent flocks of birds, known as Ababil, which pelted the army with stones of baked clay. This divine intervention utterly destroyed Abraha’s forces, as described in the Qur’an:
“Have you not seen how your Lord dealt with the companions of the Elephant? Did He not make their plot go astray? And He sent against them birds in flocks, striking them with stones of hard clay. And He made them like chewed-up straw.” (Surah Al–Feel, 105:1–5)
This miraculous event occurred shortly before the birth of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). It elevated the status of Makkah and the Quraysh, ensuring the city’s security and prosperity.