Inspiring Events in the Field of Tabligh — Page 13
13 unique. When he raised the standard of Unity of God with the divine command, the chiefs of Mecca turned their faces and were bent on presenting severe opposition. But the Mighty God did not abandon him for a single moment and did not leave him alone or helpless. In no time a tiny band of faithful and devoted companions ( “ a ™ ā ba) gathered around him who wrote a wonderful story of their obedience and loyalty on the pages of history. He was besieged in the valley of Shi‘b Ab ī ‘ ā lib for three years. During these very harsh days, All ā h granted him extraordinary and exceptional patience and fortitude which was a glaring proof of His support. To bear the hardships and to pass through trials and tribulations successfully is also a tradition of the prophets. Times took a severe turn when his dear uncle Ab ū ‘ ā lib passed away. The incident of ‘ ā ’if presents a wonderful spectacle of divine help. When he took refuge in a garden after severe and harsh treatment from the people of that town, while blood was still oozing from his gaping wounds, an angel came from the heavens to express his support for him. Sons of darkness had rejected the light but divine grace and mercy always remained with him. Then came the critical moment of migration to Medina and we again see wonders of heavenly mercy. He walked safely through the band of his bloodthirsty enemies. The enemies pursued him till they reached the mouth of the cave where he had taken refuge, but still remained unable to capture him. Then in the hope of catching him, and winning the coveted prize, Sur ā qah, a Meccan chief chased him but despite his repeated efforts, failed miserably each time. At last, subdued, he begged immunity from the Prophet (peace and blessings of All ā h be upon him). When the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of All ā h be upon him) reached Medina, his destination, the honor and prestige with which he was welcomed is also unique. He, who was driven away by the Meccans, was received with open arms by practically all the Medinite tribes and they accepted him as their chief. The unquestioned submission of Ans ā r of Medina proved to be the living proof of divine succor. Then came the Battle of Badr. It was in the tent where he offered humble prayers to God for victory, which turned tables on the field of battle. A handful of tiny pebbles thrown by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of God be on him) towards the enemy was transformed into violent sandstorm and a well armed and seasoned army of one thousand Meccans suffered such crushing defeat at the hands of the tiny band of 313 poorly equipped companions ( “ a ™ ā ba) that it became a wonder for the whole world. Whether it is the battlefield of U ™ ud, or the Battle of the Ditch or a conflict with a group or an individual, the divine help was visible on every occasion. At one time, an enemy got chance to confront him alone.