The State of the Islamic Community After the Death of Prophet Muhammad

The State of the Islamic Community After the Death of Prophet Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad, the servant and messenger of Allah, endured countless trials to spread Islam. He left his homeland, faced ostracism by his relatives and the society he was part of, and bore immense hardships. In a small, tightly-knit community where everyone knew each other and societal norms were deeply ingrained, embarking on such a mission would require either madness or a divine appointment. Reflect on what transpired after the revelation began: wars, torture, forced migrations, and much more. All these were tests for us to spread Islam, the one true religion of Allah. History serves as a mirror, reflecting humanity’s victories and tragedies. When we examine the early period of Islam, we see both great achievements shaped by divine guidance and profound sorrows born from human weaknesses. In this article, we will critically examine the significant events of Islam's first century, draw lessons from these events, and explore the hopes they inspire for the future.

632: The Prophet’s Death and Societal Uncertainty

The death of Prophet Muhammad in 632 left a deep void in the Islamic community. This nascent religion faced a leadership crisis. The appointment of Abu Bakr as the first caliph temporarily resolved the issue, but this uncertainty laid the foundation for future conflicts that would deeply affect the community. This process serves as a reminder that leadership is not just about authority but also about social responsibility.

644: The Assassination of Umar

Umar ibn al-Khattab was assassinated during the morning prayer in Medina by Abu Lu’lu (Firuz), a Persian slave. Firuz is said to have been dissatisfied with the taxes imposed, although differing accounts exist. Umar’s assassination marked one of the first political assassinations in Islamic history. His just administration remains a cornerstone in Islamic governance.*Source: *Ṭabarī’s History

656: The Siege of Uthman

During Uthman ibn Affan’s caliphate, dissatisfaction with his policies led to a rebellion. This unrest culminated in Uthman’s assassination. This event underscores the necessity for leaders to remain attentive to the needs and demands of their people.*Source: Ibn Sa’d - Ṭabaqāt

656–657: The Camel and Siffin Wars – The Bitter Reality of Civil War

The Camel War, fought between Ali ibn Abi Talib and Aisha, demonstrated that even the Prophet’s closest companions could find themselves at odds. Subsequently, the Siffin War between Ali and Muawiya resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of lives. These wars highlight the critical need for reconciliation and a culture of dialogue among religious and political leaders.*Source: Ibn al-Athir - Al-Kāmil fi’t-Tārīkh

657: The Siffin War Between Ali and Muawiya

The Siffin War, fought between Ali and the governor of Syria, Muawiya, is remembered as one of the bloodiest conflicts in early Islamic history. Although exact casualty numbers vary, the war ended inconclusively with the Arbitration of Adhruh, where both sides agreed to appoint arbitrators. Some Muslims criticized Ali’s decision, giving rise to the Kharijites, a faction he later had to fight against.*Sources: Ibn Kathir - *Al-Bidāya wa’n-Nihāya | Ṭabarī’s History

661: The Assassination and Death of Ali

Ali was attacked by a Kharijite while leading the morning prayer in Kufa. He succumbed to his injuries a few days later.*Source: Ibn Abi’l-Hadid - Commentary on Nahj al-Balāgha

670: The Poisoning of Hasan

According to Shia sources, Hasan ibn Ali was poisoned by his wife. This account remains a widely accepted narrative among Shia historians.*Source: Shaykh Mufid - Kitab al-Irshad

680: The Tragedy of Karbala

The tragedy of Karbala stands as one of the darkest chapters in Islamic history. The massacre of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Husayn ibn Ali, and his companions revealed the devastating consequences of human greed for power. However, Karbala also remains a powerful symbol of justice and resistance against tyranny.*Sources: Ṭabarī’s *History | Ibn al-Athir - Al-Kāmil

689: The Harra Incident and the Siege of Mecca – The Limits of Oppression

The Harra incident and the subsequent siege of Mecca highlight the extreme injustices in Islamic history. The looting of Medina and the bombardment of the Kaaba demonstrate the destructive potential of political strife. These events also underscore the importance of rebuilding unity and fraternity in the Islamic community.*Source: Ibn al-Athir - Al-Kāmil

692: The Siege of Mecca and the Death of Abdullah ibn Zubayr

Umayyad Caliph Abd al-Malik sent Hajjaj ibn Yusuf to capture Mecca. During the siege, the Kaaba was severely damaged, and Abdullah ibn Zubayr was killed.*Sources: Ṭabarī’s *History | Ibn Kathir - Al-Bidāya wa’n-Nihāya

20 Years After the Death of Prophet Muhammad

Looking to the Future with Hope

These events demonstrate how tragedies in human history can affect even a religious community. However, we must also remember that these traumas provide us with essential lessons. Despite the challenges faced throughout history, the Islamic community's efforts to unite and rebuild showcase the power of human determination and faith.

Today, by learning from these tragedies, we can build a governance culture that is more just, transparent, and rooted in reconciliation. Additionally, we can create platforms for dialogue to enhance the coexistence of individuals with differing perspectives. By not forgetting the mistakes of the past but using them as stepping stones, we can stride toward a brighter future.

In conclusion, we should not view the state of the Islamic community after the death of Prophet Muhammad merely as a record of mistakes and pain but also as a story of hope and resistance. By taking lessons from the early tragedies of Islam, we can work toward rebuilding a society based on human dignity and justice. Today, even though we are not facing the same challenges as those who lived in that era, we find ourselves in a state of greater heedlessness and misguidance. As the people of the end times, we are failing in fulfilling our duties. Instead of adhering to the obligations of our religion, we are trapped by Satan in absurd taboos.

Consider this: in our society today, many do not perform their daily prayers, fast during Ramadan, give alms, or pay attention to what is lawful and unlawful. We gossip and neglect the rights of our neighbors. Yet there is one thing we absolutely avoid: eating pork. Let these words not provoke anger or lead you to think that I place everyone in the same category. However, the events described above are political, not religious. None of them possess the power to tarnish our religion. The chaos that emerged after the death of such a remarkable figure as our Prophet Muhammad, who is considered one of the most influential people in the world, is nothing more than Satan exploiting the vulnerabilities of us believers. The seeds of discord sown by Satan continue to affect us even today. Life is fleeting, and we often forget the value of the present as we wrestle with the past and future. May Allah's peace be upon you all.