The Battle of Badr : The war that open the foundation of Islamic success

The Battle of Badr was a footstep for victory of Islam in the Arabian Penisula. The battle was among the believers of Islam, led by Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), and the pagans, led by the Quraish leaders.

The Battle of Badr was one of the most important battles for Islam as it carved the name and reputation of Islam as a religion that were blessed by divinity. Against all odds, the Islamic army reaped victory from the large Quraish army with the help of Allah (s.w.t). It truly was a test of patience, trust and sacrifice for the followers of Islam.

The Battle of Badr took place in the month of Ramadan, 17 ramadan. Approximately two years after the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w)’s hijrah (pilgrimage) to Medina (or known as Yathrib at the time). The Battle of Badr was noted in the Quran in Surah Ali ‘Imran, the third surah of the Holy Quran. In the Quran, it was said :

            "Allah helped you at Badr when you were very weak. Be mindful of Allah, so that you may   be grateful.” (3:123)

            “Remember when you said to the believers, ‘Will you be satisfied if your Lord reinforces  you by sending down three thousand angels?” (3:124)

            “Well, if you are steadfast and mindful of Allah, your Lord will reinforce you with five    thousand swooping angels if the enemy should suddenly attack you!” (3:125)

           “and Allah arranged it so, as a message of hope for you [believers] to put your hearts at rest- help comes only from Allah, the Mighty, the Wise-“ (3:126)

In these verses, it is evident that Allah (s.w.t) confirms the occurrence of the Battle of Badr, and His divine intervention. The mercy of Allah (s.w.t) to aid Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) and his people, the believers of Islam, in battle. With that being said, the muslim army was severely outnumbered by 3:1.

It is said that there were 315 muslim infantry in battle, along with 2 horses and 70 camels, as opposed to 950 infantry of the Quraish army, who had 100 horses and 170 camels. Therefore by the grace and help of Allah (s.w.t), He sent down his angels to help in battle, to gain victory for Islam.

In the battle, there were three main line of defences at the Muslim army. One line was the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), as the leader of the clan. The Prophet (pbuh) was the middle line. In front of him were the clan on the Prophet (pbuh), led by Ali Ibn Abu-Talib. They were the first line, that face the opposing force, as well as a thick barrier in protection of the Prophet (pbuh). Behind the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) stood hundreds of companions, the true believers of Islam, of the Messenger (pbuh). They protected the Prophet (pbuh) from the back. These people were strong in faith, they prayed for Allah (s.w.t)’s help in battle and they trusted the decree of Allah (s.w.t). They were ready to sacrifice their lives for Allah (s.w.t) and Islam. SubhanAllah. May Allah (s.w.t) be pleased with those who fought in battle for Islam.

 By tradition of battle, at that time, it was customary for representatives of each force to call upon 3 soldiers/warriors to commence the battle. From the Quraish forces, it was Utbah Ibn Rabi-ah, Al-Walid (his son) and Sheibah.

From the side of the Islamic army, the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) called upon his own family : Ali, Al Hamza and Obeidah Al Harith (all from the clan of the prophet (pbuh) : the first line of defence).

As the 3 men, from each side, faced each other and started to battle, the Quraishi men were quick to be defeated. From there, the rest of the army fought in battle.

The muslims and the Islamic army were deemed victorious over the forces of the Quraish. They successfully defeated over 70 army-men from the opposing side. Unfortunately, 15 muslims were lost in the battle. The names of these men were listed on stone and is currently at the site of the battle (in Badr).

This battle laid down the foundation of Islam in the world. Despite the humble and sheer size of the army, their hearts were strong. Their faith was strong and Allah (s.w.t) was on their side.

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Sources :

https://www.al-islam.org/articles/battle-badr#f_3890abb2_1

http://ilmfeed.com/6-facts-about-the-battle-of-badr/