THE FIRST MIGRATION OF MUSLIMS TO ABYSSINIA PART 16

In Makkah, the situation of Muslims became more difficult during the early days of Islam. Persecution from the Quraish tribe was constant. The new Muslims, many of them poor and unprotected, faced severe hardships. Some were tortured, others ridiculed, and many lived in constant fear of their lives.

In the face of this oppression, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised a group of his followers to seek refuge in a foreign country named Abyssinia, a Christian country ruled by a righteous king. This was the first migration in Islamic history and was a turning point for the Muslim community. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) heard that King Najjashi, the ruler of Abyssinia, was known for his justice and tolerance. He believed that the Muslims would find a safe haven under his protection.

A group of about 12 men and 4 women left for Abyssinia, including the Prophet's ( PBUH) daughter Ruqayya (RA) and her husband Usman ibn Affan (RA). Their journey was long and challenging, but they were determined to find peace and practice their religion without fear.

King Najjashi warmly welcomed the Muslims who came to Abyssinia. He listened to their struggle with compassion and gave them protection in his kingdom. Despite pressure from the Quraish, who sent messengers to persuade Najjashi to return the Muslims to Makkah, the king refused to hand them over. A messenger argued that the Muslims had abandoned their ancestral religion, but Najjashi, being a wise and just ruler, invited the Muslims to explain their side.

Ja'ffar ibn Abi Twalib (RA), the leader of the Muslim group, spoke on their behalf. He recited the verses of Surah Maryam which spoke about the miracles of Prophet Isa (PBUH) and the holiness of his mother Maryam (RA). King Najjashi was inspired by the words of the Qur'an and recognized the parallels between Islam and Christianity. He assured Muslims that they could stay in his country as long as they wanted and no harm would come to them.

This migration marked the beginning of a deep and respectful relationship between the Muslims and the Christian ruler of Abyssinia. King Najjashi's hospitality and justice provided a vital lifeline to the early Muslims, allowing them to practice their faith in peace during one of the most difficult periods in Islamic history.

This migration not only demonstrated the importance of seeking justice and peace, but also emphasized the shared values between different faiths. The Prophet (PBUH) praised Najjashi for his wisdom and kindness and his deeds are remembered with respect throughout Islamic history.