An Outline of Early Islamic History — Page 35
35 “Fight Muhammad. At least turn him out of your town. Otherwise we will wage war on you. Then we will slay all your men take away your women. ” The Meccans also changed their normal caravan routes and took to routes lying through areas around Medina and incited local tribes against Muslims. Muslims were in great fear. They had to keep watch at night. Some were armed even when asleep. The Prophet w ould keep awake the whole night. Almost a whole year went by in this manner. God then commanded Muslims to prepare to meet force with force. They were few and the Quresh were many. They were poor and the Quresh were rich. They were without friends. The Qur esh had all Arabia with them. But God promised them victory. For, they were not the first to draw the sword. They had faith in the word of God and His great Prophet. They had been forced out of their homes. They had lost everything. All they wanted was pea ce. But the Quresh wanted their blood. Muslims were helpless. The Quresh were active among the tribes. The Prophet too was alert. He took very wise step to meet the enemy. 1. He sent out small scout parties to report on enemy movements in the territory. 2. He made treaties of friendship with tribes around Medina. The Quresh were on the war path. Their letter to the chiefs of Medina had not been answered. They decided to attack Medina. First a small party of Meccans raided a place three miles outside the town. It made off with some camels belonging to