Muhammad: Seal of the Prophets — Page 173
MUHAMMAD : SEAL OF THE PROPHETS 173 the direction of his goal. 5. At a short distance from Medina, he would make a halt and check up on everything. He set out finally after being satisfied that everything was in order. 6. On the occasion of important campaigns, the Holy Prophet called for volunteers and those who were prepared to accompany him arranged their own equipment and mounts. Anyone who was himself well - off might help another less favoured one in this respect. The H oly Prophet urged such aid and assistance and rendered it himself when he was able to do so. 7. Boys below fifteen years of age were not permitted to go to battle. Those who, out of their eagerness, sometimes slipped into the ranks of the volunteers were, if detected at the time of checking up, sent back. 8. A number of women generally accompanied the volunteers to help in arranging for food and to nurse the wounded and to take care of them. They also distributed water among the fighting men in the course of the battle. On certain occasions, women are known to have taken part in the fighting also. 9. The Holy Prophet took one or more of his wives with him on such journeys. They were selected by lot. 10. When the Holy Prophet received intimation that an enemy tribe was preparing to attack the Muslims, he