The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) - Volume II — Page 26
Seal of the Prophets - Volume II 26 manners were different from one another, and in accordance with the ancient custom of Arabia; practice and tradition, their unification was not an easy task, but the doctrine of Islām, and the magnetic personage of the Holy Prophet sa , suppressed all other emotions. The second group, which was of the hypocrites, was an extremely dangerous group. Apparently these people were Muslims, but in their hearts they were staunch enemies of Islām, and would burn in their malice and envy against the Holy Prophet sa. In many instances, their secret conspiracies, and hidden mischief, brought about extremely dangerous situations for Islām and the Holy Prophet sa. However, since these people were apparently referred to as Muslims, and classified themselves as being followers of the Holy Prophet sa , for this reason, they had no choice but to live their lives with the Muslims. In the very least, they were compelled to apparently submit to the rule of the Holy Prophet sa. The third group was of the idolatrous people. These people existed in substantial numbers at the time of the migration, but afterwards, their numbers quickly began to diminish. In no time, the city of Madīnah was cleansed completely of the element of polytheism. Although these people were not Muslims by religion, but under the influence of Arab civilization they felt a need to live in harmony with the majority of their Muslim brethren. Therefore, in a political context, these people were also under the flag of the Holy Prophet sa , and submitted to his rule. The fourth group however, which consisted of the Jews was free and independent in every respect. It was far from the wise disposition of the Holy Prophet sa , to leave the Jews of Madīnah without a treaty in such circumstances, when the peace of the city and the lives and wealth of the Muslims were in potential danger. Moreover, due to the enmity of the Quraish, it was a matter of life and death for the Muslims. As such, very little time had passed since the migration, when the Holy Prophet sa gathered the Muhājirīn , Aus and Khazraj on the one hand, and the Jewish leaders on the other, and presented the need for a mutual treaty between the various people of Madīnah. Under this treaty, the future peace of the city, and the protection and welfare of different people, could be maintained; and no prospect of conflict or treachery would remain. Hence, at first, the Holy Prophet sa established a few rules with relation to the internal policy and administration of the Muslims, among the Aus and Khazraj. After this, a treaty was mutually agreed upon with the Jews, which was formally put to writing. This treaty, which has been alluded to in the Aḥādīth and Holy Qur’ān, has been recorded by history in full detail. At this place, we present