The Spread of Message of Islam 

After the announcement of public preaching, the mission of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) expanded to include people from various social, economic, and cultural backgrounds. The response to his call was notable, particularly among the poor, oppressed, and marginalized sections of society, as well as some prominent individuals. The growing number of followers reflected the profound impact of the Prophet’s character, message, and method of delivering the divine call.

Attraction to the Teachings of Islam

The pure message of Islam’s monotheism, equality, friendship, and peace resonated deeply with those who encountered it through the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The appeal of Islam’s teachings and the Prophet’s personal virtues played a critical role in winning their hearts. 

His character served as a living example of the values he preached. His gentle demeanor, fairness in dealings, and unwavering truthfulness left a profound impact on the hearts and minds of his listeners. These qualities not only attracted people to his message but also solidified their faith in its truth and divine origin.

Through his guidance, followers learned essential religious principles and practical regulations that enabled them to reform their lives. The teachings emphasized a balanced approach to faith and practice, instilling a sense of moral responsibility and spiritual growth. This transformation laid the foundation for a community rooted in righteousness, justice, and unity under the worship of the one and only Allah (SWT).

Key aspects included:

• The Essence of Monotheism: The message of the oneness of Allah (SWT) (Tawheed) vibrated deeply with those seeking spiritual clarity and liberation from idolatry.
• Equality and Brotherhood: Islam’s emphasis on the equality of all humans before Allah (SWT) broke through the rigid class structures of Arabian society.
• Compassionate Leadership: The Prophet’s gentle demeanor, fairness, and truthfulness not only attracted followers but also nurtured their faith.

The Journey of Islam with Basic Faiths and Practices

Initially, Muslims practiced their faith discreetly, fearing persecution from the Quraysh. However, with the command for public preaching, the Prophet (ﷺ) openly invited people to Islam as per Allah’s guidance. The Prophet’s call, though met with hostility from some, continued to attract those who recognized the truth in his message and sought to reform their lives.

Many verses of the Qur’an revealed during the early Makkhan period deeply resonated with people who were spiritually inclined, morally conscious, or disillusioned with the corrupt practices of Quraysh society. These verses inspired the first followers of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by appealing to their sense of justice, purpose, and belief in the One true God. Public preaching was started with the revealation of these verses:

“O (Prophet) you who are covered with a cloak! Arise, warn, proclaim the greatness of your Lord, purify your garments, and keep away from impurity.” (Surah Al—Muddassir, 74:1 – 5)

This marked the beginning of public preaching. It was a direct command to the Prophet (ﷺ) to rise and proclaim the message of Islam.

Here are some key verses that are believed to have moved and attracted early Muslims:

“Successful indeed is the one who purifies himself, And remembers the Name of his Lord, and prays.But you prefer the life of this world, While the Hereafter is better and more lasting.” (Surah Al–A‘la, 87:14–17)

These verses encouraged spiritual purification and showed the contrast between the temporary world and the eternal Hereafter.

Say: “O you my servants who believe! Fear your Lord, good is (the reward) for those who do good in this world. Spacious is Allah.s earth! those who patiently persevere will truly receive a reward without limit!” (Surah Al–Zumar, 39:10)  

Many early Muslims endured hardships and persecution. These verses offered them hope, strength, and divine reassurance.

“Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there to Him any equivalent.” Surah Al–Ikhlas (112:1–4) 

A powerful declaration of Tawheed (oneness of Allah), which resonated with those seeking pure belief, free from idolatry as mentioned in Surah Ikhlas.

“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those mindful of Allah.” (Surah Baqarah, 2:2)

Though a Madinahn verse, this reflects a timeless truth that early believers found guidance and certainty in the Qur’an’s message.

“By Time, Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who believe, do good deeds, encourage truth, and encourage patience.” (Surah Al–Asr, 103:1–3)

The essence of salvation was found in this brief but powerful surah that captured the heart of Islam’s ethical message and social reform, which appealed to many early converts. 

These verses—and many more—formed the spiritual, moral, and intellectual foundation that drew the hearts of people like Abu Bakr (RA), Khadijah (RA), Bilal (RA), Sumayyah (RA), and others.

[Also see othe verses of Surah Al—An’am: 6:162 – 163, Surah Al—An’am: 6:14—15, Surah Al–Araf: 7:33, Surah An–Nisa: 4:77, Surah Lukman: 31:33, Surah Al–Qasas: 28:83—84]

Contents of the Da’wah (Invitation to Islam)

The Prophet’s call to Islam, guided by divine revelation mentioned in the above verses, emphasized:

1. Belief in Allah and the Hereafter: The central focus of the call was belief in Allah (SWT), unseen realities, and the accountability of the Hereafter, where actions in this world would determine eternal reward or punishment.
2. Worship and Praise of Allah (SWT): Followers were taught to worship Allah alone, glorify Him, and live in gratitude and obedience.
3. The Worldly Life vs. the Afterlife: The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized prioritizing the eternal Hereafter over the transient worldly life, urging followers to prepare for ultimate accountability.
4. Encouragement of Good Deeds: Islam’s teachings inspired moral and spiritual excellence through acts of kindness, justice, and charity.
5. Guidance on Halal and Haram: Clear instructions were given regarding permissible and forbidden actions to ensure a life of integrity and purity. 

Quraysh’s Disbeliefs 

• Disbelief in Monotheism: The Qraysh leaders of Makkah strongly disagreed with the concept of oneness of Allah (SWT) and showed their tough arrogance and disbelief as mentioned in the Qur’an: 

“Has he (Muhammad) chosen one god instead of many gods? Indeed, this is a strange thing. Some of their leaders say, ‘Go away and be steadfast in your gods.’ Surely, this is a statement inspired by a special purpose. We did not hear of such a thing in the former religion. It is nothing but a fabrication. Has the message been sent down to him alone from among us? Indeed, they are in doubt about My message; rather, they have not yet tasted My punishment.” (Surah Sad, 38:5–8)

[Also see Surah Al–Qalam, 68:5 – 9]

• Their Disbelief in Resurrection: The Islamic belief that a person will be resurrected and held accountable after death was completely contrary to the beliefs and concepts of the Quraysh. The Quraysh leader Umayya ibn Khalaf took the decayed bones of a dead person from the grave and went to the Prophet ((ﷺ)) and said: ‘Do you think it will be brought back to life?’

He replied: ‘The One who created it in the first place will bring it back to life.’ 

Allah the Almighty says regarding resurrection:

“They say: When we have become bones and dust, shall we then be raised up anew? Say: Be stones or iron. Or something that is hard in your imagination; yet they say: Who will create us again? Say: He who created you the first time. Then they shake their heads at you and say: When will this be? Say: It will be, perhaps soon.” (Surah Bani–Israel, 17:49–51)

[Also see Surah Al-Muminun: 23:81—83,  Surah Qaf, 50:2 – 4]

• Their Disbelief in the Day of Judgement and Accountabilty:

• “Did you then think that We had created you in jest, and that you would not be brought back to Us (for account)?” (Surah Al–Muminun: 23:115) 

• “But as for those who disbelieved, and rejected Our signs and the encounter of the Hereafter – those will be hauled into the torment.” (Surah Ar–Rum, 30: 16)

[Also see Surah Kahaf: 18:105 – 106]

Obstruction in Missionary Activities of the Prophet (ﷺ)

Initially, the Quraysh leaders of Makkah did not pay much attention to the religious call of Muhammad (ﷺ). They thought that he would be reduced to ashes by the wrath of their powerful gods. But as time passed, they became alarmed by the rapid spread of the anti–pagan Islamic faith. Especially when a great personality like Hazrat Umar (RA) embraced Islam despite being a strong opponent of Islam, the infidel leaders of Makkah were confused. They feared that the religion of their foefathers and their influence and prestige centered on the Ka’ba would be destroyed.

The Quraysh leaders sought various means to suppress Islam. Their attempts ranged from verbal slander to physical persecution and even efforts to negotiate compromises that would abandon the core principles of the new faith. 

• Quraysh’s First Deligation to Abu Talib

First, a delegation led by the Quraysh leader Abu Sufyan presented a complaint to his uncle Abu Talib, requesting him to stop Muhammad (ﷺ) from his anti–pagan activities. Although Abu Talib himself did not accept Islam, he was completely sympathetic to the religion preached by his beloved nephew. In response to the complaints of the Quraysh leaders, he summoned Muhammad (ﷺ) and said:

“You should refrain from opposing the religion of your forefathers and the customs of the Quraysh, and follow your religion and let them follow theirs.”

In response, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: 

“I want them to accept a promise that, if fulfilled, will make the entire Arab land theirs.”

Abu Talib asked, ‘What Is that?’ The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

‘That is: ‘La ilaha illallah’ – There is no god but Allah, the One and Only.

The Quraysh leaders present were surprised at these words and said:

“Shall we abandon the gods of our forefathers and worship one? Such a strange thing!”

Abu Talib’s support, despite not embracing Islam, illustrates the deep familial bond and respect for the Prophet’s (ﷺ) integrity. It also exemplifies how the Prophet’s (ﷺ) character earned the trust and backing of those around him, even in the most challenging circumstances. 

• Anti—Islam Propaganda and Persecution by Quraish Leaders

• The Quraysh leaders left Abu Talib’s house in despair. When no solution was found despite their complaints, they publicly called Hazrat Muhammad (ﷺ) a lunatic who had destroyed the religion of his fathers. They began to humiliate him with negative comments and jokes. However, their actions only highlighted the transformative power of Islam and the Prophet’s unyielding devotion to the message entrusted to him by Allah (SWT).

• The Quraysh leaders, including Abu Lahab, Abu Jahl, Abu Sufyan, and others, employed all the famous poets of the time to slander Muhammad (ﷺ) and to denounce him as a liar. They tried to incite the common people against him through their poetry and eloquence. 

• At various times, they hindered the Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers in their preaching activities by inflicting various kinds of persecution. 

• Quraysh’s Second Deligation to Abu Talib: Even then, when the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) could not be stopped, a delegation of Quraysh went to Abu Talib for the second time. This time, they were led by the wicked infidel Walid ibn Mughira, taking his son Umar ibn Walid with them. His son was a handsome and brave young man of Quraysh. He pointed to him and said: “You give us your nephew and in return you accept Umar as your son.” 

Abu Talib was surprised by this strange proposal and instantly rejected it.

• Quraysh’s Third Deligation to Abu Talib: Then for the third time another delegation led by Utbah ibn Rabi’ah, one of the Quraysh leaders, met Abu Talib. This time they presented their demands in a stern voice. They said:

“If Muhammad wants leadership, we will make him our leader, if he wants beautiful women, we will give him our most beautiful women, if he wants wealth, we will all make him rich. In return, he must refrain from opposing our religion and idols. If he does not agree to these and if you do not stop him, the solution will be through war.”

This harsh attitude of the Quraysh leaders worried Abu Talib. Up until now, he   had supported his nephew with all his strength and support. Now, it made him worried that how reasonable it would be to engage in war with the Quraysh. He called Muhammad (ﷺ) and told him about the proposal and threat of the Quraysh and said,

 ‘O nephew! I have reached old age and have become weak. In this situation, your existence and mine are in danger. Do we have the strength to face this imminent danger?’ 

He felt a little concerned at the words of his old uncle Abu Talib and thought about the consequences for a while. He realized that such risks and dangers were very natural in carrying out the responsibility of the Prophethood. Still, with absolute trust in Allah Almighty, he said:

“O uncle, even if the infidels try to stop me from my mission by placing the sun in my right hand and the moon in the left one, I will reject their offer.”

“Allah is One and Unique, He has no partner” – Allah Almighty sent him as a Prophet and Messenger to establish this great truth. What he is doing is not for his personal gain, but according to Allah’s command, the only purpose of his preaching this religion is the peace and liberation of world humanity.

Such was his courage and firmness of faith in his heart and his resolve to ignore all greed, worldly desire, obstacles, threats and dangers. The firmness of his convincing speech shocked everyone present. Abu Talib listened to him with a delighted heart and said, ‘You continue with your work, I will support you in all circumstances.’ The Quraysh leaders also understood what they had to do. The enraged Quraysh leaders reiterated their threat and left. 

• Abu Talib’s Efforts to Face the Challenge: After this incident, Abu Talib called together all the Hashemite and Muttalib tribes and informed them of the threat from the Quraysh. In response, he called on them to support Muhammad (ﷺ). Most of his own tribe had not yet accepted Islam. Despite this, they expressed their support for him. However, Abu Lahab, another uncle of the Prophet (ﷺ) and a bitter enemy of Islam, reacted negatively and withdrew.

The verses that encapsulate this purpose is as follows:

“Say (O Muhammad ﷺ): I do not ask of you any reward, but you keep it. My reward is with Allah. All things are before Him. Say: My Lord has sent down the truth. He is the Knower of the unseen. Say: The truth has come, and falsehood cannot create anything new, nor can it return. Say: If I go astray, I go astray to my own loss; and if I am guided, it is because my Lord inspires me. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, the Near.” (Surah Saba, 34:47–50)

These verses underscores the sincerity of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the essence of his mission. He sought no worldly gain, only the fulfillment of Allah’s command for the betterment of humanity. His selfless dedication was aimed only to spreading the truth for the welfare of humankind. His resolute faith and the transformative power of the message of Islam would ultimately overcome the opposition, proving that truth, when divinely inspired, cannot be extinguished. 

Resoluteness of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)

Despite relentless opposition, he remained resolute in his call to monotheism and the guidance of humanity towards truth and righteousness. His firm stance in the face of threats, bribes, and hostility from the Quraysh leaders underscored his sincerity and the divine origin of his mission.

• The Quraysh’s resistance, through ridicule, threats, and bribery, reflects the challenges faced by a revolutionary movement seeking to replace deeply ingrained traditions with a higher moral and spiritual truth. 

• Despite their efforts, the Prophet (ﷺ) maintained his integrity, steadfastness, and reliance on Allah (SWT). 

• His reply to his uncle Abu Talib—declaring his willingness to continue the mission even if faced with impossible challenges—illustrates the depth of his faith and determination. 

His eloquence and conviction in responding to opposition not only inspired his followers but also made an indelible impression on those who heard his message.

Prophet’s (ﷺ) Unwavering Commitment to the Divine Message

The persistence and resilience of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) during this critical period laid the foundation for the eventual triumph of Islam. 

• His unwavering commitment to his divine mission serves as a remarkable example of steadfastness and courage.  

• His firm trust in Allah (SWT) and his ability to inspire and guide his companions through trials and tribulations ensured the continuation of the message that has since transformed the course of human history.

• The purpose and mission of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) were rooted in spreading the truth of monotheism and liberating humanity from the chains of idolatry, ignorance, and injustice.

• His response to the Quraysh leaders and their attempts to suppress his mission highlighted his solid commitment to the divine message entrusted to him by Allah (SWT).

The Quraysh’s desperation to halt the spread of Islam only underscored the profound impact the Prophet’s (ﷺ) teachings had on society, challenging entrenched systems of power and belief. 

Examples of Mistreatment Faced by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ)

The early days of Islam were marked by severe persecution and mistreatment of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) by the Quraysh of Makkah. Despite their hostility, the Prophet (ﷺ H) displayed extraordinary patience, steadfastness, and mercy. Some notable examples of their mistreatment and his response include: 

1. Throwing Animal Waste During Prayer: One day, while the Prophet (ﷺ) was in prostration during prayer in the courtyard of the Ka’ba, Abu Jahl brought the entrails of a slaughtered animal and placed them on his back. The Prophet (ﷺ) remained in prostration until his daughter, Fatima (RA), came to remove the filth and clean him. Fatima (RA) cried at the sight of her father in such a state, but he comforted her and continued his worship without showing anger.
2.  Garbage and Thorns on His Path: Abu Lahab’s wife, Umm Jamil, would deliberately throw garbage and filth on the Prophet’s (ﷺ) path or place thorns where he would walk. The Prophet (ﷺ) would silently remove the obstacles and continue his journey without complaint. His forbearance and refusal to retaliate highlighted his noble character. 
3. Insults and Mockery: The Quraysh often mocked and insulted the Prophet (ﷺ). They spread false rumors about him, calling him a fortune-teller, a madman, a poet, or a sorcerer. Despite having previously referred to him as “Al-Amin” (the Trustworthy) and “As-Sadiq” (the Truthful), they attempted to tarnish his reputation among the pilgrims visiting Makkah. 
4. Interruption During Preaching: Whenever the Prophet (ﷺ) spoke about Islam in public gatherings, the Quraysh would create a commotion to drown out his voice. They would mock his words and misrepresent the teachings of Islam to dissuade people from listening to him. They feared the impact of the Qur’anic verses, which resonated deeply with those who heard them. 
5. Attempts to Undermine His Message: The Quraysh tried to discredit the Prophet (ﷺ) by accusing him of being a liar, despite his impeccable record of honesty and integrity. Their efforts included spreading slander and using eloquent poets to ridicule him and sway public opinion against him.
6. Throwing Animal Waste During Prayer: One day, while the Prophet (ﷺ) was in prostration during prayer in the courtyard of the Ka’ba, Abu Jahl brought the entrails of a slaughtered animal and placed them on his back. The Prophet (ﷺ) remained in prostration until his daughter, Fatima (RA), came to remove the filth and clean him. Fatima (RA) cried at the sight of her father in such a state, but he comforted her and continued his worship without showing anger.
7.  Garbage and Thorns on His Path: Abu Lahab’s wife, Umm Jamil, would deliberately throw garbage and filth on the Prophet’s (ﷺ) path or place thorns where he would walk. The Prophet (ﷺ) would silently remove the obstacles and continue his journey without complaint. His forbearance and refusal to retaliate highlighted his noble character. 
8. Insults and Mockery: The Quraysh often mocked and insulted the Prophet (ﷺ). They spread false rumors about him, calling him a fortune-teller, a madman, a poet, or a sorcerer. Despite having previously referred to him as “Al-Amin” (the Trustworthy) and “As-Sadiq” (the Truthful), they attempted to tarnish his reputation among the pilgrims visiting Makkah. 
9. Interruption During Preaching: Whenever the Prophet (ﷺ) spoke about Islam in public gatherings, the Quraysh would create a commotion to drown out his voice. They would mock his words and misrepresent the teachings of Islam to dissuade people from listening to him. They feared the impact of the Qur’anic verses, which resonated deeply with those who heard them. 
10. Attempts to Undermine His Message: The Quraysh tried to discredit the Prophet (ﷺ) by accusing him of being a liar, despite his impeccable record of honesty and integrity. Their efforts included spreading slander and using eloquent poets to ridicule him and sway public opinion against him.

The Prophet’s (ﷺ) Response with Perseverance

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) endured these hardships with incredible patience and resilience. He never retaliated with anger or violence. Instead, he continued his mission of spreading the message of Islam with compassion and humility. His unwavering trust in Allah Almighty and commitment to his divine mission served as a source of strength during these trying times.

• The Prophet’s (ﷺ) response to persecution offers a profound lesson in resolve and forgiveness. 

• His conduct demonstrated that even in the face of hostility, truth, and righteousness must prevail. 

His reliance on Allah and his unwavering dedication to his mission ultimately led to the triumph of Islam, inspiring countless generations to follow his example.

Allah (SWT) says in support of His Prophet (ﷺ):

“When the disbelievers hear the Qur’an, they look at you as if they were about to throw you away, and they say, ‘He is a madman.’ But this Qur’an is nothing but a reminder for the worlds.” (Surah Al-Qalam, 68:51–52)

Incidents of Persecution and Torture Against Early Muslims

The early converts to Islam faced immense persecution from the Quraysh of Makkah. Their steadfastness and unwavering faith in the face of these brutalities are testaments to their dedication to Islam. Here are some notable incidents:

1. The Consequences of Public Sermon made by Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA): Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), one of the closest companions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), embraced Islam early. Despite the secrecy of the Islamic movement at the time, he urged the Prophet (ﷺ) to allow a public sermon. Upon receiving permission, he delivered Islam’s first public address in the courtyard of the Ka’ba. This made infidel Quraysh furious, and led by their leader Utbah, launched a violent attack on Abu Bakr (RA). He was beaten so severely that he fell unconscious. Members of his tribe, the Banu Tayyim, rescued him and took him home. Upon regaining consciousness, his first concern was the safety of the Prophet (ﷺ), refusing food or drink until assured of his well-being.

This incident exemplifies his profound love and commitment to Islam and the Prophet (ﷺ).

1. Tortures on Slaves and the Poor: The Quraysh targeted the weaker members of society, particularly slaves and the impoverished, as they lacked protection or tribal support. Some examples are cited below:

• Example of Hazrat Bilal (RA): Bilal (RA), a slave owned by Umayya ibn Khalaf, secretly embraced Islam. Upon discovering this, his master subjected him to extreme torture, such as: 

– Lying him face down in the scorching desert sun.

– Placing a heavy stone on his chest.

– Flogging him mercilessly.

Despite the agony, Bilal (RA) chanted, “Ahad, Ahad” (i.e., Allah is One, One).

Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) purchased from his master and freed him, as he did for many other oppressed Muslims.

• The Family of Ammar ibn Yasir (RA): Ammar (RA) and his parents, Yasir (RA) and Sumayya (RA), converted to Islam and endured brutal torture.

• Yasir (RA): The Quraysh tied his legs to two camels, which were driven in opposite directions, tearing his body apart.

• Sumayya (RA): She was killed by Abu Jahl, who drove a spear through her body, making her the first female martyr of Islam.

Ammar (RA): Tortured until he fainted but remained steadfast in faith. 

• Hazrat Khabbab ibn Al-Aratt (RA): Khabbab (RA), another early convert, was subjected to horrific abuse. His tormentors placed burning coals on his back and pressed him down until his skin burned. Despite the pain, he never wavered in his belief in Allah (SWT) and the Prophet (ﷺ).
• Hazrat Abu Zar Ghifari (RA): Abu Zar Ghifari (RA), known for his fearless nature, publicly declared his acceptance of Islam in Makkah. The Quraysh beat him severely in response. He continued to profess Islam despite repeated assaults, earning the respect of his fellow believers.

• Persecution of Women: Muslim women, particularly slaves and servants, faced immense humiliation. They were stripped, beaten, and ridiculed to force them to renounce Islam, yet their faith remained unshaken. 

The Legacy of Perseverance

The brutalities endured by the early Muslims highlight the immense sacrifices they made for their faith. Despite physical and emotional torment, they remained resolute, trusting in Allah’s (SWT) promise of eventual justice and reward. Their courage laid the foundation for the strength and spread of Islam, inspiring Muslims across generations.

Allah Almighty says about the dreadful torture on them:

“They punished them only because they believed in Allah (SWT), the Praiseworthy, the Exalted in Might, to whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. To Allah belong all things.” (Surah Al-Buruj, 85:8–9) 

Allah’s Words of Comfort to the Prophet (ﷺ) in the Face of Opposition

When the infidels rejected him and subjected him and his companions to inhuman physical torture, he was deeply distressed and worried by their ignorant behavior. He was not only concerned for his own well–being but, more importantly, for the guidance of his people. During these trying times, Allah (SWT) revealed verses to console, encourage, and assure him of divine support. Allah Almighty revealed “Surah Buruj no. 85” to comfort the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers. Besides, in a number of verses Allah (SWT) revealed the words of comfort reassuring His Prophet (ﷺ):

“And be patient. For your patience is a help from Allah. Do not grieve over them, nor let your heart be troubled by their plot. Indeed, Allah is with those who fear Him and do good.” (Surah An–Nahl, 16:127–128)

[Also see Surah As–Saff, 61:8]

Allah’s words of comfort provided the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) with the strength and patience to endure the hostility of the Quraysh. These verses serve as timeless lessons for Muslims, emphasizing the importance of steadfastness, trust in Allah (SWT), and reliance on worship and prayer during times of hardship.