Stories from Early Islam — Page 117
The Spirit of Sacrifice At the time of the battle of Tabuk, the Holy Prophet saw called for contributions, so that he could make the necessary prepara- tions for the battle. There was a striking response to his appeal. The examples of Abu Bakr and Umar were typical. Both were wealthy enough to contribute a substantial sum towards the fund. Umar used to say that Abu Bakr always outdid him in sacri- fice for the cause of Islam. On this occasion he was determined to surpass him. With this in mind, he came home, collected all his belongings and divided them into two equal halves. He left one half at home and took the other to the Holy Prophet saw. The Holy Prophet saw was much pleased and asked him, ‘Umar! Did you leave anything at home for your family?’ ‘Yes,