Unwanted Conflict with the Juzaima Tribe

Following the conquest of Makkah, Hazrat Khalid ibn Walid (RA) broke the idol ‘Uzza’, the great god of the Banu Shayban tribe, located in Nakhla outside Makkah. Then he went with his army towards the tribe of Juzaima. Even after the people of that tribe converted to Islam, a minor clash broke out with them due to some misunderstanding. As a result, several people of that tribe were killed.

• Compensation for the Juzaima Tribe

The Holy Prophet (ﷺ) was deeply hurt by this incident and attached special importance to stopping the tradition of violence of the ‘Age of Ignorance.’ The Prophet (ﷺ) expressed deep sorrow over this incident and took immediate steps to address the issue. He provided compensation for the losses and blood money of the tribe of Juzaima, demonstrating his commitment to justice and to eliminating the violent practices of the pre–Islamic era.

The Hawazin Conspiracy

With the fall of the pagan Quraysh in Makkah, the chief of Hawazin tribe of the Hunayn Valley, Malik ibn Awf, thought that the Muslim army would target them this time. He then perceived the Muslim forces as a direct threat. So he rallied neighboring tribes, including Banu Thaqif, Banu Nasar, and Banu Jusham, to ambush the Muslims. He planned an ambush in advance. He was a brave young man and a fierce warrior and had a lot of public support for him. In preparation, he brought not only warriors but also families and livestock to the battlefield, confident of victory.

The Prophet (ﷺ) received secret information of the Hawazin tribe’s chief Malik ibn Awf was preparing to attack Makkah. They could launch an ambush at any time. The Holy Prophet (ﷺ) ordered the Muslim army to foil his war plan. The Muslim army of 10,000 Muhajirin–Ansar from Madinah who participated in Makkah expedition, together with 2,000 new Muslims of Makkah led by the Quraysh leader Abu Sufyan, marched towards the Hawazin’s stronghold in the Hunayn Valley. The gathering of this large force created a sense of excitement among the Muslims.

The Battle of Hunayn

The Battle of Hunayn was a critical encounter following the conquest of Makkah in the 8th year of Hijri, revealing the resilience and leadership of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (ﷺ) and the mercy embodied in Islamic teachings.

The Ambush and Initial Retreat

The Hawazin Valley was located on the road from Makkah to Taif. The Muslim army marched along this road. When this news reached the chief of the Hawazin tribe, Malik ibn Awf, he immediately ordered four thousand soldiers to take positions in various places in the valleys along the road. As soon as the Muslim army approached them, they launched a surprise attack by throwing stones and arrows. In this sudden attack, some soldiers of the Muslim army were martyred. As a result, chaos arose in the Muslim ranks, leading to temporary disarray and retreat by some. Many of them fled.

Despite the initial setback, Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stood firm, calling with loud voice for steadfastness and invoking Almighty Allah’s help. He, wishing for enemies’ humiliating defeat, threw a handful of dust towards the enemy, a symbolic gesture seeking divine intervention.

The Turn of the Tide

Key companions, including Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), Hazrat Umar (RA), Hazrat Abbas (RA), Hazrat Usama ibn Zayd (RA), Hazrat Abdullah ibn Masud, Hazrat Fazl ibn Abbas (RA), Hazrat Ayman ibn Ubayd (RA), Hazrat Abu Sufyan, and others rallied around the Prophet (ﷺ). Among them, Hazrat Ayman ibn Ubayd (RA) was martyred in the enemy attack.

Hazrat Abbas (RA) roared and called upon the Muslim soldiers to turn around. Soon, order was restored in Muslim army and they reorganized. Then a powerful counterattack was launched, defeating the Hawazin forces. The enemy suffered heavy casualties, and a significant number were captured along with their large amount of wealth and livestock.

The Qur’an reflects on this battle, highlighting that reliance on sheer numbers does not guarantee success, but faith and Allah’s support lead to victory:

“Allah has helped you in many ways, and on the day of Hunayn, when your multitude had made you happy, but it did not benefit you, and the earth, though it was spacious, became narrow for you. Then you turned your backs and fled. Then Allah sent down from Himself comfort to His Messenger and to the believers, and sent down hosts which you did not see. And He punished the disbelievers, and this is the reward of the disbelievers. Then Allah turns to repentance to whom He wills, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Surah At—Tawbah, 9:25–27)

Mercy Towards the Hawazin

After their defeat, many Hawazin members embraced Islam. Recounting their losses in the war, they sought the Prophet’s (ﷺ) mercy and consideration. Displaying exceptional kindness, the Prophet (ﷺ) asked them which was more desirable to them, wealth or family. They chose release of their Tawbah families, taken as captives in exchange for wealth. The Prophet (ﷺ)  advised them saying:

“This request should be made in front of everyone. I will then free all the captives who come to my share.”

Accordingly, when they made this request in front of everyone, he first announced that he would return his own share and that of Banu Muttalib.

His example inspired most of the Muhajirin and Ansar to follow the suit. Initially, some of the Banu Tamim and Banu Sulaym tribes refused to do so. The Prophet (ﷺ) assured them that they would be given a larger amount in return later. Then they also agreed to return their share. This act of generosity relieved and satisfied the new Muslims of the Hawazin tribe and eased their transition into the Muslim community.

The Conversion of Malik ibn Awf

The Hawazin chief, Malik ibn Awf, had fled to Taif and sought refuge with the Thaqif tribe. The Prophet (ﷺ) announced a pardon for Malik if he surrendered and accepted Islam, offering him 100 camels and the return of his family. Malik accepted the offer, embraced Islam, and became a loyal supporter of the Muslim cause. His conversion brought the entire Hawazin tribe under the fold of Islam. This kindness towards the Hawazin tribe is a shining example of generosity.

Lessons from the Battle of Hunayn

1. Reliance on Faith over Numbers: The initial retreat demonstrated the futility of relying solely on numbers, emphasizing trust in Allah.
2. Compassion in Victory: The Prophet’s (ﷺ) merciful treatment of the Hawazin captives set a precedent for justice and forgiveness.
3. Unity Through Generosity: The collective decision to release captives strengthened the bond between Muslims and new converts.
4. Leadership and Resilience: Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) unwavering resolve during the crisis inspired his companions to regroup and achieve victory.

The Battle of Hunayn reinforced the principles of mercy, justice, and reliance on Allah, further solidifying the foundations of the growing Muslim community.

 The Taif Campaign

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) launched the Taif campaign against the Thaqif tribe, who had also participated in the attack against Muslims in the Battle of Hunayn. Taif, a prosperous and agriculturally rich valley, was protected by fortified walls and well–prepared inhabitants.

The Siege of Taif

The people of Taif, anticipating the Muslim army’s arrival, fortified their city and closed all the entrance gates to the city. Upon reaching the area, the Prophet (ﷺ) set up camp near the foot of the fort. The warriors of Taif, who were stationed in the protected fort, started shooting arrows at the Muslim camp. As the Muslim camps fell under their arrows, that inflicted casualties among the Muslims. This forced the Muslim army to reposition the army by pulling back the camps beyond their shooting range.

Muslim Army’s Attack on the Fort

To breach the fortifications, the Muslims employed a war strategy similar to the one used at the Battle of Khaybar. They constructed a ‘Manjaniq’ (catapult) to launch stones at the fort walls. However, the Thaqif retaliated by hurling firebombs from the top of the fort, damaging the Muslim siege equipment. In this situation, it became difficult to wage war without prolonging the siege.

Alternative Strategy against Prolonging Siege

There were two obstacles to prolong the siege:

1. Firstly, the people of Taif had stored enough food and weapons to last a long time in the fort.
2. Secondly, according to the traditional Arab custom, the month of prohibition of war, and at the same time the Hajj season was approaching,

Considering the above situation, as a last resort the Prophet (ﷺ) devised an alternative plan. He then ordered the destruction of Taif’s valuable orchards to pressure the defenders into surrender. This tactic began yielding fruitful results. When some orchards were set on fire and trees were cut down, a delegation from Taif approached the Prophet (ﷺ), requesting him not to destroy their beloved orchards, with a proposal:

“The Prophet (ﷺ)  could take ownership of these orchards or leave these with them for the sake of kinship.”

Seeing no immediate gain, the Prophet (ﷺ) did not think it advisable to prolong the siege. Agreeing to the proposal of Taif delegation, he decided to stop the destruction of the orchards and withdraw the siege. He assured the people of Taif that anyone seeking refuge would be given security. The Muslim army then returned to Makkah to perform Hajj.

• Outcome:
  Leadership and Wisdom of the Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrated strategic flexibility during the Taif siege, knowing when to withdraw to avoid unnecessary hardship for his people.

The Distribution of the Spoils of Hunayn

On the return journey from Taif, the Muslim army halted at Jiranah, where the immense spoils of the Hunayn campaign had been stored. This wealth was the largest booty the Muslims had ever acquired, including livestock, goods, and prisoners of war.

Generosity Toward New Muslims

The Prophet (ﷺ) used the spoils to attract the hearts of newly converted Muslims. He showed exceptional generosity, giving prominent Makkahn leaders, including Abu Sufyan, 100 camels each. Other significant figures received 50 camels each. This approach softened the hearts of former enemies and strengthened their loyalty to Islam.

While the distribution pleased the new Muslims, it stirred emotions among some Ansar, who felt overlooked and thought the Prophet (ﷺ) favored his kin from Makkah over them. They feared that their share of the spoils might be reduced due to such a generous distribution.

The Prophet’s (ﷺ)  Address to the Ansar

When the Prophet (ﷺ) learned of their feelings through Hazrat Sa’d ibn Ubad (RA), he gathered the Ansar and addressed their concerns with remarkable wisdom and compassion. He said:

“Such fears are unfounded – I have no greed for your wealth. You will get your share and you will be given one–fifth of my share.”

He also warned everyone to gather all the booty they had in one place and not leave anything behind for anyone. Otherwise, they would be humiliated until the Day of Judgment.

He reminded them of the blessings Allah (SWT) had bestowed upon them through Islam. He asked them, “O Ansar! Is it not true that:

• When you were astray, Allah the Almighty guided you to the right path?
• When you were enemies, He created brotherhood and harmony among you?
• When you were poor, He enriched you?”

The Ansar acknowledging these blessings, replied:

“O Messenger of Allah! We have received endless blessings from Allah the Almighty and His Messenger.”

Then the Prophet (ﷺ) wanted to know more from them, but he did not understand what they were saying. Then he said to them,

“I expected a clearer answer from you — if you had said:

“When everyone disbelieved in you, we believed in you, when your own people expelled you from your homeland, we sheltered you, when everyone abandoned you, we came to your aid, we sympathized with your suffering.”

The Prophet (ﷺ) continued, explaining that the worldly wealth distributed to new Muslims was a means of strengthening their faith, while the Ansar were already firm in belief. He concluded with words that deeply moved them:

“Are you not satisfied that others take away camels and sheep while you return with the Messenger of Allah?”

At these heartfelt words, the Ansar wept and affirmed their contentment saying:

“We are satisfied with the Prophet (ﷺ).”

The Prophet (ﷺ) then prayed for them and their families, resolving all doubts and misunderstandings.

The Holy Prophet (ﷺ) with his extraordinary wisdom and prudence completed the distribution of the spoils in such a way that finally, everyone was able to overcome all the doubts and conflicts and achieve satisfaction.

Lessons from the Distribution of Spoils of War

The Taif campaign and the events surrounding the spoils of Hunayn reflect the Prophet’s (ﷺ) unparalleled ability to lead, unite, and inspire devotion among diverse groups within the Muslim community. The lessons may be summarized below:

1. Generosity as a Tool for Unity:
   The distribution of spoils showcased the Prophet’s (ﷺ) ability to strengthen new Muslims’ commitment to Islam while reassuring long–standing companions of their unique place in his heart.
2. Patience and Diplomacy:
   The Prophet (ﷺ) addressed grievances openly, resolving conflicts with compassion and wisdom, ensuring unity among the Muslims.
3. Prioritizing Faith Over Wealth:
   The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized the greater blessing of faith and the honor of his companionship, teaching the Ansar to value spiritual rewards over material wealth.

Back to Makkah for Performing Hajj and Umrah

After the siege of Taif and the distribution of the spoils of the battle of Hunayn in Jiranah, the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) set out for Makkah to perform Hajj and Umrah. That was the first Hajj and Umrah of the Muslims after the conquest of Makkah. Upon reaching there, he performed Hajj and Umrah with the newly converted Makkhan Muslims.

Distribution of Responsibilities of Makkah and Ka’ba

As it was decided that the Prophet (ﷺ) would stay at Madinah in stead of Makkah, he felt necessity of  appointing his representatives in Makkah with following responsibilities:

• He appointed Hazrat Attab ibn Usayd (RA) as his representative for administrative affairs.
• He appointed Hazrat Mu’adh ibn Jabal (RA) as his representative for Islamic education to teach the new Muslims of Makkah the rules of Islam and the Qur’an.
• The Ka’ba, a sacred site central to the lives of the Quraysh and all Muslims, had long been managed by various Qurayshite clans. The Prophet (ﷺ) reorganized these responsibilities, abolishing some roles while retaining others, based on their significance in the service of Allah and the pilgrims.

1. Keyholding of the Ka’ba: The responsibility for safeguarding the keys to the Ka’ba was entrusted to Hazrat Uthman ibn Talha and his family. This lineage–based duty had been performed by his ancestors and was reaffirmed by the Prophet (ﷺ), ensuring continuity and respect for tradition.
2. Provision of Water to Pilgrims (Siqayah): The responsibility for providing Zamzam water to pilgrims was assigned to Hazrat Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib (RA), the Prophet’s (ﷺ) uncle. This duty was a continuation of the legacy of Abdul Muttalib, who had rediscovered and maintained the Zamzam well.
3. Abolished Responsibilities: Certain tribal roles related to the Ka’ba, which did not directly contribute to serving Allah (SWT) or the pilgrims, were abolished. The Prophet (ﷺ) ensured the retained responsibilities those focused on service, humility, and practicality.

Outcome and Acceptance : The reorganization of responsibilities by the Prophet (ﷺ) was met with widespread acceptance and satisfaction among the Quraysh. The fairness and respect for traditional roles ensured that no tribe felt slighted. This arrangement unified the Quraysh under a single Islamic administration.

• Ensured that the Ka’ba was managed with sincerity and efficiency.
• Reinforced the importance of service to Allah and the pilgrims as a noble duty.

This arrangement set the precedent for the Ka’ba’s management in the years to come and exemplified the Prophet’s (ﷺ) wisdom in balancing tradition with the practical needs of an Islamic society.