Introduction
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah is a significant event in early Islamic history. It marked an important moment when Muslims stood up for acceptance and religious freedom. The Treaty of Hudaibiyah, signed in 628 CE (6 AD), was an agreement between the Muslims of Medina and the Quraysh crew of Mecca for a ten-year peace.
This treaty allowed Muslims to practice and spread their religion freely without fear of attack. It was a planned move that helped Muslims become stronger and more safe. The treaty showed that dialogue and agreements can be more beneficial than fighting, and it is always remembered as a powerful example of how peace can be achieved through diplomacy.
History of the Treaty of Hudaibiyah
During the Battle of the Trench, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) predicted that the Quraysh would no longer be able to attack the Muslims. After the Fajr prayer, the Prophet (SAW) informed the Muslims of a dream in which he saw himself performing Tawaf (circumambulation) of the Kaaba. A Prophet’s (SAW) dream is true and a form of divine revelation, making it compulsory to fulfill. This news brought more joy to all Muslims, especially the Muhajirun (immigrants), as they expected the journey to the holy Kaaba after six long years.
In the peaceful month of Dhul-Qa’dah, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and approximately 1400 Muslims embarked on a journey to Mecca. This particular month was traditionally honored as a time of peace and non-violence, which underscored their peaceful intentions. They brought sacrificial animals and wore the ihram, the traditional pilgrimage attire. They brought no weapons besides sheathed swords, further highlighting their desire to perform Umrah without engaging in battle.
Encounter with the Quraysh
During the blessed journey, Hazrat Umm Salama (RA), the Prophet’s (SAW) wife, attended him. As they approached Mecca, upsetting news about the intentions of the Quraysh started to appear. Consequently, the Prophet (SAW) decided to camp at Hudaibiyah, a location near a well, to avoid fighting with the Quraysh.
To learn more about the legacy of Hazrat Umm Salama (RA), visit this link: Hazrat Umm Salama (RA).
The Quraysh had decided not to allow the Muslims to enter Mecca. They viewed the Muslims as rebels and considered themselves the custodians of the religion. Despite the prohibition of war during the sacred month, the Quraysh sent a group led by Khalid ibn al-Walid (who had not yet accepted Islam) to face the Muslims. There were some minor fights, and a few Quraysh fighters were seized and brought to the Prophet (SAW). He (SAW) ordered their release, highlighting his desire to avoid war.
Diplomatic Efforts and the Pledge of Ridwan
In a time of tension, the Quraysh crew sent delegations to talk with the Muslims. Important people such as Budeil bin Warqa and Urwa bin Mas’ud were part of this group. The Muslims wanted to keep things peaceful and showed that they only wanted to carry out their religious visit, called Umrah, without fighting.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) made a strategic move for peace. He sent Hazrat Usman bin Affan (RA) to the Quraysh because they respected him, hoping that he could help make peace. However, a false rumor spread that Hazrat Usman (RA) was killed. This made the Muslims promise to always stand by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). They made this promise under a tree, and it’s known as the Pledge of Ridwan.
This promise was very important. It showed that the Muslims were ready to back up their Prophet (SAW), even if it meant they might face a fight. Later, a chapter in the Quran called Surah Al-Fath said that this promise was good and that Allah (SWT) was pleased with the Muslims for attaching and being strong at this important time.
Terms/Conditions of the Treaty
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah contained several conditions aimed at maintaining peace and allowing for the safe practice of Islam:
- The Muslims agreed to go back to Medina without performing Umrah that year. However, they would be allowed to enter Mecca the following year for three days to perform the pilgrimage, bringing only sheathed swords.
- Both sides agreed to stop fighting for ten years, providing peace and stability. This period of peace was meant to allow both groups to live without the threat of war.
- Any crew in Arabia could join freely with the Muslims or the Quraysh without interference. This allowed crews to choose their supporters and helped develop the power of both parties.
- Any Muslim who ran to Medina without their guardian’s permission would be returned to Mecca. However, anyone running from Medina to Mecca would not be sent back. This term was challenging but was accepted by the Muslims.
- Both sides agreed to respect each other’s property and lives, including the security of caravans and trade routes. This was necessary for economic strength and for building joint trust.
The treaty’s terms seemed unfair to the Muslims, but Prophet Muhammad (SAW) accepted them because he understood the long-term benefits. Shortly after the agreement, some Muslims who had been imprisoned in Mecca ran to join the Muslim camp. Despite the treaty prescribing their return, the Prophet (SAW) honored the agreement, demonstrating his commitment to keeping his word.
Aftermath and Significance
Over time, it became clear that this Treaty of Hudaibiyah was a significant victory. The Muslims performed Umrah under the Prophet’s (SAW) leadership the following year, fulfilling his dream. The Quraysh, unable to bear the presence of the Muslims performing Tawaf, retreated to the hills, temporarily leaving Mecca.
The treaty’s short terms led to unexpected advantages. Meccan Muslims who escaped the city began harassing Quraysh caravans, compelling the Quraysh to seek the Prophet’s (SAW) engagement. With the Prophet Muhamad (SAW) rejecting to interfere on behalf of non-Medina Muslims, the Quraysh eventually requested to nullify the restrictive clause of the treaty. This increased conversions to Islam, including prominent figures like Khalid ibn al-Walid and Amr ibn al-As.
The ten-year peace allowed the Muslims to focus on other fronts, leading to the significant conquest of Khaybar. Finally, the Treaty of Hudaibiyyah set the stage for the eventual conquest of Mecca, transforming the Muslim community from perceived rebels to recognized leaders, fulfilling the divine promise of victory.
Who Broke the Treaty of Hudaibiyah?
The Quraysh crew broke a peace treaty when their supporters, the Banu Bakr crew, attacked the Banu Khuza’a crew, who were supporters of the Muslims. The Quraysh helped the Banu Bakr in this attack, which violated the treaty.
The Banu Khuza’a asked Prophet Muhammad (SAW) for help. Seeing the serious nature of the betrayal, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) decided to act. This breaking gave the Muslims a proper reason to respond.
In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) instructed a large army towards Mecca. His leadership and political skills ensured the conquest was peaceful, with little fighting. When he entered Mecca, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) showed his kindness by forgiving the Quraysh, even those who had been his enemies.
For more information about the conquest of Makkah, visit this blog: Conquest of Makkah: A Revelation of Faith and Forgiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Surah Al-Fath (The Victory) was revealed after the Treaty of Hudaibiyah. This Surah highlights the treaty’s success and divine approval, highlighting the peace agreement’s importance and positive outcomes for the Muslim community.
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah was written by Hazrat Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), and under the guidance of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Hazrat Ali (RA) carefully documented the terms and conditions of the treaty as agreed upon by both parties.
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah was signed between the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), representing the Muslim community of Medina, and Suhayl ibn Amr, representing the Quraysh crews of Mecca.
The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah lasted about two years. Although it was initially intended to last ten years, the breach by the Quraysh and their allies led to its early end.
