Assignment

Course: HIS203
Islamic History
Section:1
Summer 2023
Assignment Topic: “Mohammad at Medina”
Submitted on: 19 October, 2023

Submitted By Submitted To
Name: Jarin Tasnim Nuha Dr. Mohammad Humayun Kabir

ID: 2211382615 Department of History and Philosophy, North

South University
Course: HIS203.1

Abstract
The central objective of this research is to attain a comprehensive grasp of Prophet Mohammad’s
life in Medina. The theme “Prophet Mohammad at Medina” holds profound significance in the
annals of Islamic history. This is a transformative period of Islam and has deep connection with
broader Islamic history. The importance of the "Prophet Muhammad at Medina" period lies in its
pivotal role in shaping Islamic history as it witnessed the significant expansion and flourishing of
Islam. This transformative period began with the migration of prophet and his companions from
Mecca to Medina, a milestone that signifies the start of his Medina life. It was also a turning
point in the life of Prophet Mohammad as he became a political leader as well as a religious
leader. During this period, first Islamic state was established and charter of Medina, the first
written constitution, was written. During prophet’s time in medina, Islamic law (Sharia) and
ethical principles were developed. Prophet Muhammad's leadership in Medina offers timeless
lessons in statesmanship, diplomacy, and conflict resolution. This period also showcases
Prophet’s interaction with diverse groups, including Muslims, Jews, Christian and idol
worshipers. This research covered all these significant events. In this research, I also talked about
many battles like battle of Badar, battle of Uhud, battle of ditch and how these battles gave
Muslims the encouragement and lessons for future. Lastly, this research also covered the treaty
of Hudaybiyyah and conquest of Mecca and its importance.
Table of Contents
Introduction:....................................................................................................................................4
Research Questions:.........................................................................................................................4
Methodology:...................................................................................................................................5
Literature Review:...........................................................................................................................5
The Events Prior to the Hijrat and Causes of Hijrat :......................................................................6
Importance of Medina State and Medina Charter:..........................................................................6
The Political, Geographical and Religious Importance of Hijrat:...................................................7
Battle of Badar and Its Importance:.................................................................................................8
Battle of Uhud and Its Lesson:........................................................................................................9
The Importance of Battle of Khandaq:............................................................................................9
The Treaty of Hudaybyyah and Its Clear Victory:..........................................................................9
Mecca Conquest and Its Lesson about Forgiveness:.....................................................................10
Importance of Prophet’s Time in Medina in The History of Islam:..............................................10
Conclusion:....................................................................................................................................11
Introduction:

Prophet Mohammad is the last prophet of Islam. He was born in Mecca in 570CE and received
divine revelation at a cave of mount Hira. When he tried to preach the truth , many people in
Mecca were against it and caused many trouble for him. So, when people of Yathrib invited
prophet there, he accepted and migrated to Medina in the tenth year of his mission. It was turning
point in the history of Islam cause many people started to accept Islam in Medina and Prophet
became a political leader there. As, there was a dispute between the two main tribes of Medina,
they accepted a leader from third party. In this way Mohammad became both religious and
political leader. When he became the political leader, he renamed Yathrib as Medina and
established brotherhood and toleration. He was first to establish a state and bring it under one
leader. During this period the first constitution was written. In comparison to his ten years in
Mecca, many people accepted Islam in very short time in Medina. Many battles were fought and
Muslims were encouraged for a brighter future. A peace treaty named Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
was made in 628CE during his time in Medina. When this treaty was violated by Quraysh ,
Mohammad advanced towards Mecca with Ten thousands Muslims and conquered Mecca
without shedding a single drop of blood. With the conquest of Mecca , Prophet’s Medina period
came to an end.

Research Questions:
The primary purpose of this research is to illuminate the historical, theological, and moral
dimensions of Prophet Muhammad's Medina phase. In order to do that, few research questions
will be bought up. In this research we will answer these questions and analyze them with the help
of study materials, books and online publications and papers.

⮚ What were the causes behind the hijrat of Prophet Mohammad to Medina?

⮚ What is the importance of Medina state and The Medina Charter?

⮚ What is the political, geographical and religious importance of Prophet’s migration to

Medina?
⮚ What is the importance of Hudaybiyyah treaty and why is this a clear victory?

⮚ What importance did the battles of Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq have for Muslims ?

⮚ How Muslims finally conquered Mecca? And what lesson does it give about forgiveness?

⮚ How does Prophet’s time in Medina impact the history of Islam?

Methodology:
To explore the many facets of the Prophet Muhammad's life in Medina, this study mostly draws
on secondary data sources. A wide range of academic studies, scholarly writings, and internet
publications make up the secondary data sources, which contribute to an in-depth examination.
Scholarly writings and historical literature provide the basis of a sizeable portion of the research.
In-depth historical insights are provided by reliable books like "Muhammad at Medina" by W.
Montgomery Watt and "The Life of the Prophet Muhammad" by Ibn Ishaq. These writings offer
insightful analyses of the sociopolitical setting and the Prophet Muhammad's life in Medina. The
research includes a thorough analysis of scholarly articles and publications, mostly from
recognized organizations. Among these are notable scholarly works like "Prophet Muhammad in
Medina: A Historical Analysis," which was published by the University of Medina. Academic
journals and online sources are used to broaden the scope of the research. Contemporary
interpretations and analyses of the topic are offered by Britannica.com. Academic publications
that provide nuanced viewpoints and a modern comprehension of the Prophet Muhammad's time
in Medina include the "Journal of Islamic Studies," "Islamic Studies Journal," and the materials
from the "Islamic Heritage Research Foundation."

Literature Review:
Mohammad’s time in Medina is very important to Islamic history. That is why many research
has been done on it. The numerous facets of this historical era are illuminated by these secondary
data sources. Scholary writings like, W. Montgomery Watt's "Muhammad at Medina" , providing
a careful analysis of the socio-political environment at the time. The book "The Life of the
Prophet Muhammad" by Ibn Ishaq has also been crucial in helping people understand the
occasions and advancements during this period. These reliable books have been essential in
providing the historical background and highlighting the significant part that Prophet
Muhammad played in determining the fate of Medina. Academic studies published by reputable
institutions have provided an academic and research-oriented perspective on Prophet
Muhammad's Medina phase. The papers published by the University of Medina, such as
"Prophet Muhammad in Medina: A Historical Analysis," have been invaluable sources. These
studies employ rigorous research methodologies to explore the historical significance of this
period. They delve into topics such as governance, social dynamics, and the religious and
political challenges faced by Prophet Muhammad, enriching the academic discourse on this
subject. Online publications and academic journals have contributed contemporary
interpretations and analyses of Prophet Muhammad's life in Medina. A well-known online
source, Britannica.com, has offered easily understandable but well-informed information that
links historical events to modern knowledge. The "Journal of Islamic Studies" and the "Islamic
Studies Journal," among other scholarly publications, have been crucial in offering complex
viewpoints on the background and implications of this chapter in Islamic history. The collective
body of secondary data sources showcases a diverse array of scholarly perspectives, from in-
depth historical examinations to contemporary insights.
The Events Prior to the Hijrat and Causes of Hijrat :

The greatest Prophet of all time, Prophet Mohammad was Born in Mecca, in the year 570 CE.
During the time of his meditation at a cave of mount Hira , he received divine revelation from
Allah. Few days after the revelation, he was told to preach the truth. When prophet tried to
preach the teaching of Islam, the ruling families of Mecca was against it. After the revelation,
Mohammad stayed 10 years in Mecca and tried to preach the truth of Islam but not many people
supported him in his mission. During his time in Mecca, 73 men from Yathrib accepted Islam
and invited Prophet in Yathrib and pledged to help and protect him. In the tenth year of his
mission, he lost his wife and uncle, who supported him in Mecca. The Quraysh were planning to
kill Prophet at any cost. So, due to the aggressive attitude of the aristocracy and priest class,
Prophet Mohammad decided to accept the invitation of the people of Yathrib and migrate to
Medina. There were many other reasons behind the migration of Prophet.Such as,

⮚ Qurayshite aristocracy and priest class: The Qrayshite aristrocracy and priest class were
against the teaching of Islam because it will bring a social and political change. That’s
why they were planning to assassinate Prophet at any cost.
⮚ Environmental: The weather of Mecca was harsh, which also affected the behavior of the
Meccans. The weather of Medina was less harsh, so was the behavior of Medina’s
people.
⮚ Psychological factor: The Medina people did not know Prophet from birth. So, they had
less psychological barrier in acception Islam.
⮚ Invitation and relation with Medina: Some people from Medina accepted islam and
invited prophet. Moreover, Prophet’s mother was also from Medina .
⮚ Aggressive attitude of the Meccans: Meccans were also very harsh with Prophet and were
against the teaching of Islam.
Due to all these reasons above, Prophet decided to migrate to Medina.

Importance of Medina State and Medina Charter:

● Importance of Medina State:

The importance of the Medina state in Islamic history is profound and multifaceted, with far-
reaching implications for the development and spread of Islam. Firstly, The establishment of the
Medina state marked the beginning of a strong and unified Muslim community. This community
would later serve as the foundation for the spread of Islam. Secondly, The early Muslims in
Mecca faced severe persecution, making their survival and practice of Islam increasingly
difficult. The migration to Medina offered a respite from this persecution, allowing Muslims to
live and pray in peace. The state in Medina allowed for the practical implementation of Islamic
values and principles in governance, serving as a living example of how an Islamic society
should function. Moreover, Medina provided a secure base for the early Muslim community. It
allowed them to defend themselves against external threats and led to several pivotal battles,
such as the Battle of Badr and the Battle of Uhud. The concept of the "Ummah" or the Muslim
community was further reinforced in Medina, emphasizing the unity of believers regardless of
their tribal or ethnic backgrounds.Furthermore, The experiences in Medina set foundational
precedents for the structure of an Islamic state, governance, and the role of a religious leader in a
political context. These precedents have influenced Islamic governance for centuries. Lastly,
lessons from the Medina state continue to be relevant in modern discussions on governance,
ethics and justice.

● Importance of Medina Charter:

The Medina Charter, also referred to as the Medina Constitution, is of utmost historical
significance because it created a ground-breaking framework for cooperation and
peaceful coexistence among various religious and tribal groups. Notably, the Charter
placed a strong emphasis on religious tolerance, allowing Muslims, Jews, and Arabs who
are not Muslims to freely practice their religions. This groundbreaking document
established equal rights and obligations for all community members, regardless of their
religious or tribal backgrounds, and thus established a standard for inclusive societies. Its
provision for the amicable settlement of disputes, emphasizing the fundamental values of
justice and fairness in governance, was equally significant. It introduced the concept of
common nationality. It also established brotherhood and toleration. Violation in Medina
state was forbidden through it. Oppressed were protected and no general liability were
given upon communities for personal offence. Through this Medina charter, all the
people of Medina came together to protect the Medina state. The principles of the
Medina Charter continue to be relevant in discussions of modern human rights, minority
rights.

The Political, Geographical and Religious Importance of Hijrat:

Prophet Muhammad's migration, known as the Hijrah, from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE was a
transformative event that holds profound political, geographical, and religious importance in
Islamic history.
Political Importance:
The migration to Medina marked an important moment in the political evolution of Islam. In
Mecca, the early Muslim community faced relentless persecution from the Quraysh tribe and the
city's leadership. The migration allowed the Prophet to establish a fledgling Islamic state in
Medina. This transition made him a religious leader as well as a political leader. He played a
central role in drafting the Medina Charter, also known as the Constitution of Medina, which laid
the foundation for a just and inclusive society. It established the principles of cooperation, equal
rights, and dispute resolution among various religious and tribal groups. This serves as an early
example of a constitution and a model for inclusive governance.

Geographical Significance:

Geographically, the migration had a profound impact on the spread of Islam. Medina, originally
known as Yathrib, provided a secure and supportive environment for the Muslim community to
grow and practice their faith without fear of persecution. The way to Syria from Mecca was
through Medina. The city's strategic location in the Arabian Peninsula facilitated trade routes and
communication, enhancing the spread of Islamic teachings to neighboring regions. Additionally,
the Prophet's leadership in Medina led to a series of military campaigns and battles, such as the
Battle of Badr and the Battle of Uhud, which further extended the influence of Islam in the
region.

Religious Significance:

Religiously, the Hijrah represents the beginning of a new era for Islam. The migration marked a
turning point in the history of the faith, signifying the establishment of a secure and flourishing
Muslim community. It allowed for the practical application of Islamic teachings and principles in
governance, shaping the core of Islamic jurisprudence. Moreover, The number of Muslims
started to increase rapidly after the Hijrat. Also, Prophet could preach to other tribes without any
obstacle.

Battle of Badar and Its Importance:

The Battle of Badar, fought in 624 CE, is of profound importance in Islamic history. It marked a
significant turning point as it was the first major military confrontation between the early Muslim
community and the Quraysh of Mecca. Due to Prophets growing power and conspiracy of jews
and Abdullah ibn Ubayy, this battle took place. 313 Muslims fought against 1000 Quraysh
troops. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Muslims emerged victorious, which is considered
the most decisive battle. This victory solidified the faith of the early Muslims and established the
legitimacy of the Prophet Muhammad's leadership. It laid the foundation for subsequent Islamic
military campaigns and territorial expansion.
Battle of Uhud and Its Lesson:

The battle of Uhud took place in 625 CE. Under the leadership of Abu Sufiyan 3000 combatans
proceeded to Medina for this battle. Women also fought in this battle. Muslims were 1000 in
number in this battle. During the first, it looked like that Muslims were going to be victorious but
they were defeated at last. 70 Muslims were killed. But through this Battle Muslims learned a
important lesson. It showcased the importance of unity, discipline, and resilience but also the
consequences of disobedience and overconfidence, offering enduring lessons in the face of
adversity.
The initial success of the Muslim army was due to their unity and adherence to the Prophet's
instructions. However, when some archers left their designated positions prematurely because
they misjudged and went for the booty of war and went against the instruction of Prophet, it led
to a vulnerable flank and contributed to the reversal of fortunes.
The lesson here is the need for discipline, unity, and adherence to leadership in the face of
challenges. It also signifies the value of continuous learning from past mistakes, offering
timeless wisdom for individuals and societies.

The Importance of Battle of Khandaq:

The Battle of Khandaq, or the Battle of the Trench, was a pivotal event in early Islamic history.
It occurred in 627 CE when a confederate army, led by the Quraysh of Mecca, besieged Medina.
The Muslims, led by Prophet Muhammad, dug a trench around the city to defend against the
superior forces. The was 10000 in numbers and were well equipped while Muslims were only
3000 in numbers. The Quraysh besieged Medina for 27days but because of the food shortage
and a chill and terrific wind uprooted their tents, they decided to go back. It highlighted the
importance of strategic planning and unity. The Muslims, led by Prophet Muhammad,
successfully defended Medina from a confederate army through the construction of a defensive
trench. The battle taught valuable lessons about fortitude, resourcefulness, and the power of a
united community in the face of external threats.

The Treaty of Hudaybyyah and Its Clear Victory:

The Hudaybiyyah Treaty, signed between the Prophet Muhammad and the Quraysh tribe in 628
CE, holds immense historical significance in the early days of Islam. Despite its outward
appearance as a truce, the treaty represented a clear victory for the Muslim community, both
politically and religiously.
At the time of the Hudaybiyyah Treaty, the Muslim community sought to perform the pilgrimage
to Mecca but the Quraysh, who controlled the city, refused their entry. The treaty allowed the
Muslims to postpone their pilgrimage to the following year. The treaty was an astute political
move, as it secured a ten-year truce between the two parties. This respite provided the Muslims
with a period of stability and allowed them to consolidate their position in Medina. The Muslims
fought three battles with the Quraysh during the Medina period. So, Prophet was unable to do his
most important duty which was to preach Islam. This treaty gave prophet some time to preach
Islam and teach the lessons of Islam. Even though many terms were not in favor of Muslims, it
was a clear victory for them as they got to fulfill another important duty.
Moreover, The negotiations and final agreement demonstrated that the Quraysh, while still
hostile, were willing to engage with the Muslims on diplomatic terms, acknowledging their
presence and influence in the region.
The Hudaybiyyah Treaty was a profound spiritual and moral victory for the Muslims. Despite
the apparent concessions, it showcased the unwavering commitment of the Muslim community
to the principles of peace and diplomacy. The Prophet's willingness to negotiate demonstrated
his preference for peaceful resolutions, even when faced with adversity. This commitment to
non-violence, guided by Islamic ethics, set a powerful example for future generations.
In conclusion, the Hudaybiyyah Treaty was of paramount importance in the early history of
Islam. It provided a period of political stability, solidified the recognition of the Muslim
community as a legitimate entity, and, most importantly, showcased the moral and ethical values
that underpin Islam.

Mecca Conquest and Its Lesson about Forgiveness:

A tribe named Khuza declared their adhesion to Muslim and another tribe named Banu Baka to
the Quraysh. After two years of Hudaybyyah treaty, the Banu Baka tribe attacked the Khuza
tribe with the help of Quraysh. By doing this , they violated the treaty. Then, Prophet sent a
peace mission but they did not accept any terms of it. So, in 630 CE Prophet led 10000 Muslims
to Mecca, marking a peaceful takeover. It exemplifies the profound lesson of forgiveness.
Prophet Muhammad, at the head of a formidable Muslim army, entered Mecca, a city that had
once fiercely opposed him. Yet, instead of seeking revenge, he displayed remarkable forgiveness
and compassion. He declared a general amnesty, pardoning those who had previously persecuted
the Muslims. This act of clemency was a powerful demonstration of the Islamic principle of
forgiveness and reconciliation. It not only allowed for a peaceful transition of Mecca to Islamic
rule but also paved the way for the city's religious transformation.

Importance of Prophet’s Time in Medina in The History of Islam:

The period of Medina holds immense importance in the history of Islam, and its significance
cannot be overstated. It served as a defining phase that not only ensured the survival and growth
of the nascent Muslim community but also laid the groundwork for the future of the faith.
Without the period of Medina, Islam might not have flourished as it did. In the face of severe
persecution in Mecca, the migration to Medina provided a safe haven for the early Muslims. This
move was crucial for the preservation of the Muslim community. In Medina, the Prophet
Muhammad's leadership evolved, setting a precedent for future Islamic states.
The period of Medina also laid the foundation for later Islamic civilization. It established the
model of combining religious and political leadership under the Prophet Muhammad, shaping
future Islamic governance. The Medina Charter exemplified the principles of justice and
cooperation, influencing inclusive governance in the Muslim world. This era also saw the
development of Islamic law. The period's ethical and moral teachings remain integral to the
practice of Islam today
In essence, the period of Medina was a critical incubation stage that allowed Islam to flourish,
and its principles and experiences have continued to influence Islamic thought and governance
throughout history. Without it, the course of Islamic history would have been markedly different,
potentially impeding the global spread and enduring legacy of Islam.

Conclusion:

Prophet Muhammad's time in Medina left an indelible mark on the history of Islam. In this city,
he became a religious leader as well as a political leader, establishing the first Islamic state. It
was a turning point in the history of Islam. The establishment of Medina state introduced
brotherhood and toleration . Gave them a common nationality. The Medina Charter, the first
written constitution, united diverse tribal and religious groups under the banner of Islam, setting
a precedent for inclusive governance and cooperation. Under the leadership of Prophet ,
significant battles like Badr, battle of Uhud, battle of Khandaq and the Conquest of Mecca
solidified Islam's position in Arabia. His revelations during this period formed the basis of
Islamic law and ethics, shaping the faith's legal and moral framework. Furthermore, the Prophet's
teachings and actions in Medina provided enduring religious and moral guidance for Muslims.
Beyond Arabia, his leadership and the Medina experience contributed to the spread of Islam,
impacting the entire region. Thus, the time in Medina is a pivotal chapter in Islamic history,
influencing governance, law, and the faith's global legacy