Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) faced many trials during his early preaching of Islam. When the infidels of Mecca oppressed him and his companions to the utmost and refused to accept the call to Islam, he decided to preach outside Mecca. In this regard, he traveled to Taif so that the people there would accept the truth and embrace Islam. But this journey proved to be one of the toughest tests of his life. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
Purpose of Going to Taif
When the people of Mecca intensified their opposition to Islam and it became more difficult for the Prophet (peace be upon him) to preach in Mecca, he thought that the people of Taif might accept the call to truth. Taif was a prosperous and influential city at that time,
and the tribe of Thaqif there was known for its power and influence. The Prophet (peace be upon him) hoped that if the people of Taif accepted Islam, it would prove to be a strong support for the spread of the religion. So, he set out for Taif with his freed slave, Hazrat Zaid bin Haritha (RA). Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
Invitation to Islam in Taif
Upon reaching Taif, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) met three chieftains there: Abdul Yalil, Masood, and Habib, who were the sons of Amr bin Umair. He (PBUH) invited them to Islam with great kindness and love and conveyed the message of the Oneness of Allah. But unfortunately, these chieftains not only rejected his invitation but also showed extreme rudeness and arrogance. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
These chieftains mocked the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and decided to expel him from the city. They sent the mischievous boys and slaves of Taif after him, who pelted him with stones. This cruelty was so severe that his blessed feet were injured, and blood started flowing. Hazrat Zaid bin Haritha (RA) tried to save him without caring for his own life, but he too was injured. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
Shelter in the Garden and Great Prayer
When the oppression of the people of Taif became too much, the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) went to a garden, which belonged to two Quraysh chiefs named Utbah and Shaybah. Here he (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) made a very painful prayer to Allaah, which is the best example of patience, humility, and trust in Allaah:
“O Allaah! I present to you my complaint of my weakness, my helplessness, and my worthlessness in the eyes of people. O Most Merciful! You are the Lord of the weak; you are my Lord. If you are not angry with me, then I do not care about anything.”
This prayer was a sign that the most important thing for the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was the pleasure of Allaah, not worldly success or the support of people. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
The Help of Allaah and the Offer of the Angels
Allaahu alayhi wa sallam heard the prayer of His beloved Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and sent Jibraeel (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) to console him. The angels of the mountains were also present with Gabriel, who said:
“O Messenger of Allah! If you command, we will join these mountains together so that this nation will be destroyed.”
But look at the mercy and patience of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)! He (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:
“No! Rather, I hope that Allah Almighty will create from their descendants people who will worship One Allah and avoid polytheism.”
These were the high morals, thanks to which later the people of Taif also believed and became the standard-bearers of Islam. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
What does the incident of Taif teach us?
We learn countless lessons from the journey of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) to Taif:
Patience and perseverance—Even when the circumstances are unfavorable, one should continue to call for the truth.
Trust in Allah—one should turn to Allah in difficult times because every trial is from Allah.
Mercy and Forgiveness—One should not curse even the worst enemies but should pray for their guidance.
Continuity of Invitation—If an invitation is not accepted in one place, one should look for other opportunities instead of losing heart. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
Conclusion
Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy This journey to Taif is a very important and inspiring chapter in the life of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). This incident teaches us a lesson in patience, courage, steadfastness, and complete faith in Allaah.
Although the people of Taif initially oppressed and abused him (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), the mercy and prayers of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) resulted in these same people later becoming the bearers of Islam. Even today, if we adopt the same patience and steadfastness, the problems of our lives can be solved, and we can attain the pleasure of Allaah. Journey to Taif: A Story of Patience and Mercy
