Ghazwa-e-Uhad

The Battle of Uḥud was fought on the 5th of Shawwāl in 3 A.H., one year after Badr. Unlike the victory at Badr, this battle turned against the Muslims due to disobedience by some archers. It became a test of patience and obedience, reminding Muslims that success comes only with steadfast discipline and reliance on Allah.

Initially 1000 Muslims marched out, but 300 hypocrites led by ʿAbdullāh ibn Ubayy deserted them, leaving only 700. The Quraysh army numbered 3000, led by Abū Sufyān. This left the Muslims heavily outnumbered, a critical factor in the outcome.

After Abū Jahl’s death at Badr, Abū Sufyān rose as the leader of Quraysh. At Uḥud, he commanded the 3000-strong Quraysh army. His strategy, along with the cavalry maneuver of Khālid ibn Walīd, turned the tide of battle. This marked a shift in Quraysh leadership and military resilience.

Seventy Muslims were martyred in the battle, including many prominent companions such as Hamza ibn ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib, the uncle of the Prophet ﷺ. This heavy loss grieved the Muslims deeply, but it strengthened their awareness of sacrifice for Islam. Their martyrdom became a source of inspiration for later generations.

The Prophet ﷺ stationed 50 archers on the mountain pass, under the command of ʿAbdullāh ibn Jubayr, to prevent cavalry from attacking from behind. However, when many archers abandoned their posts for spoils, the Quraysh cavalry under Khālid ibn Walīd attacked, leading to Muslim losses. This became a powerful lesson in obedience and discipline.

During the battle, the Prophet ﷺ was injured—his helmet was broken into his cheek, and one of his teeth was martyred. Despite this, he stood firm, showing courage and patience. His injury symbolized his sharing in the sacrifices of his companions, deepening their love and loyalty.

At Uḥud, Muslim women for the first time actively participated in the battlefield—not in fighting, but by giving water to the wounded, treating injuries, and encouraging the fighters. Figures like Umm ʿAmmārah (Naṣībah bint Kaʿb) even defended the Prophet ﷺ with her own sword when the enemy broke ranks. This established an important precedent for women’s courageous support in Islam’s struggles.

The Battle of Uḥud occurred in Shawwāl of 3 A.H., one year after the Muslims’ victory at Badr. It was a retaliatory attempt by Quraysh to restore their honor. The outcome was a difficult trial for the Muslims.

The battle took place on 5th Shawwāl, 3 A.H. The timing was deliberate, as Quraysh wanted to strike soon after Badr to avenge their loss. This date became etched in Muslim memory as a day of trial.

Initially, 1000 Muslims set out, but 300 hypocrites under ʿAbdullāh ibn Ubayy deserted them before the battle. This left only 700 to face the Quraysh army of 3000. Their betrayal weakened Muslim morale.

Quraysh marched with 3000 soldiers, including 200 cavalry and 700 armored fighters. They brought women with them to boost morale. Their large army reflected their determination to crush Islam once and for all.

After Abū Jahl’s death at Badr, Abū Sufyān became the commander of Quraysh forces. He vowed to avenge Badr, making Uḥud a personal vendetta. His leadership gave Quraysh temporary success.

The Prophet ﷺ placed 50 archers under ʿAbdullāh ibn Jubayr’s command to guard the mountain pass. When many disobeyed orders and left their posts, the Quraysh cavalry attacked from behind, causing Muslim losses.

Khālid ibn Walīd, not yet Muslim, led the Quraysh cavalry. When the archers left their positions, he seized the chance and attacked from the rear. His skillful maneuver broke Muslim ranks.

Ḥamzah, the “Lion of Allah,” was killed by the spear of Wahshī. His body was mutilated by Hind bint ʿUtbah. His martyrdom was among the greatest sorrows of Uḥud.

Wahshī, a skilled Abyssinian slave, killed Ḥamzah with a spear to earn his freedom. Though he later accepted Islam, his act left deep grief for the Prophet ﷺ. This highlights the brutal nature of Uḥud.

The Prophet ﷺ was injured when stones and weapons struck his face, breaking a tooth and causing blood to flow. Despite this, he remained steadfast, supported by loyal companions like Ṭalḥah ibn ʿUbaydullāh.

Ṭalḥah shielded the Prophet ﷺ, receiving many wounds in the process. His bravery earned him the title al-Fayyāḍ (the Generous) for his sacrifice. He is counted among the ten promised Paradise.

Umm ʿAmmārah fought fiercely to protect the Prophet ﷺ. She sustained many wounds but stood firm with her sword and shield. She is remembered as one of the bravest women in Islamic history.

Ibn Qamīʾah struck the Prophet ﷺ and shouted that he had killed him. This rumor caused panic among the Muslims. When they saw the Prophet alive, their courage returned.