The Message of Islam — Page 33
The Battle of Badr 33 the greater number were young men who had little, if any, com- bat experience. Their devotion to the faith and their zeal in its support were their only qualifications. Ill-armed, in poor physical condition, with but two horses, and a few camels, they presented a pitiful contrast to the Meccan army, which consisted of a thou- sand tried warriors, well-armed, and well-mounted. After a march of three days, the Muslims arrived at Badr and took up their position near a well. The ground underfoot was sandy and the few experienced fighters in the group were appre- hensive that this would be a serious handicap during battle, as the sand would not permit easy and rapid movement. The Meccan army on its arrival took up a position opposite on firm clay soil. Night set in. The Prophet saw spent the greater part of it in ear- nest prayer and supplication. He had firm faith in every Divine promise, but he also realized fully the complete supremacy of the Divine Being and the many weaknesses that beset mortals. He prayed for success; he prayed for strength; he prayed for stead- fastness for himself and those with him. Part of his prayer during that fateful night has come down to us. It reveals the core of his anxiety: ‘Lord, if Thou wilt suffer this little band to perish, Thy Holy Name will no more be glorified on earth and there will be none left to worship Thy Majesty in true sincerity. ’ The morning approached. There had been a shower of rain which firmed the sand underfoot while turning the clay into slippery mud, and the Muslims were comforted and encouraged. They beheld, in hope and fear, the dawn of the day which was to decide the issue of the most fateful contest ever waged in the history of man between the forces of truth and righteousness, and those of falsehood and ignorance. The Prophet saw drew up his