Muhammad Part 5

MUHAMMAD:

Muhammad (pbuh)

61-63 years old

Since the disbelievers of Mecca chose to break their treaty with Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), the Prophet felt he was not bound to any understanding with them. As a result, Muhammad (pbuh) sent word to all the Muslims of Medina to prepare for a major confrontation. None however was told where he was going, or a war with whom? It was a secret venture, a hush, hush affair.

Most people thought he was heading toward Syria, to give the Byzantines (Romans) a lesson, in other words to take revenge for Mu'ta.

The Muslims got ready like a bundle of energy. Numerous nearby tribes joined the Muslims too, and while preparations were under way, they were kept completely secret.

It was so secret that the preparations and the march toward Mecca was the biggest surprise to the Meccans! They didn't even suspect the approaching Muslim force until the Muslims were at the very doors of Mecca itself!

SURPRISE!

The Muslim force was the better part of ten thousand strong. They marched fast, very fast. Their enthusiastically song was Allaahu‑Akbar which they kept repeating. Their hearts were rich with faith in Allah's victory and His help. They came in the same number as that of the disbelievers and the Jewish Benu Nadheer at the ditch encounter, of only two years back. They surprised the Meccan disbelievers the same way this enemy had surprised the Muslims in Medina, which led to digging the ditch.

But this Muslim force was carrying the message of Islam, not idols, and it was eager to see Islam triumphant. This force did not come for revenge or destruction. The Muslim force wanted none but victory of Allah's Message, the message of freedom, equality; the one to bring justice, love, and decency.

The mere fact of seeing the huge force, marching in synchrony, divided into large sections, was something to behold. Each section was with its own flag, and at the head of the whole force was the Prophet (pbuh) himself. It seemed as if the valleys and the hills were covered with those smiling faces. Everyone was alert, excited, and ready for the great day. You cannot help but be swept away with the emotions of the moment, when you imagine the Muslims filling the valleys and hills, calling Allaahu Akbar, marching steadily and quickly toward Mecca.

AL ABBAS MEETS THEM

Only a few days before that Al Abbas, the uncle of the Prophet and his helper on previous occasions, left Mecca with some others. His intention was to embrace Islam. On their way to Medina, they were taken by surprise when they met the Muslim force face to face. It was an utter surprise, they discovered that the force, as large as it was, was speeding toward Mecca.

Flabbergasted, Al Abbas asked himself, "What will happen to the Meccan disbelievers? Will they be killed one after another? Will they be pardoned and forgiven? Nobody knew except Allah." It was a fearful thought, very fearful. It was a somber moment, a moment that could make the heart of any Meccan disbeliever very heavy.

Anyway, once at the tent of Muhammad (pbuh), Al Abbas and his company proclaimed their acceptance of Islam. They were cheerfully accepted by the Prophet (pbuh). They also became the most important trouble‑shooters between Muhammad (pbuh) and the Meccan disbelievers. Their efforts proved to be most valuable and they were well appreciated by all.

AL ABBAS A MESSENGER FOR PEACE

Al Abbas borrowed the Prophet's white mare, called Duldul. He rode it because everyone knew it, and most people knew who he was. He rushed toward Mecca, going as fast as he could. He went with a Muslim heart, but with apprehension for the consequences the Meccans might soon suffer. It would be a tough job to convince the Meccans, Al Abbas thought, that it would be foolish if not suicidal, to fight Muhammad and the huge force with him. Ten thousand fighters were marching, but each Muslim was equal to ten others, not only in courage, but also in spirit of dedication. The Muslims were highly motivated, fearless, and everyone knew that for a fact.

On his way, Al Abbas met Abu Sufyan talking to a friend in the dark. At the time, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) had already surrounded Mecca with his huge force. The Muslims were camped, burning numerous fires. They were separated into four divisions, each camped at a mountain-head that surrounded Mecca. Mecca was ringed all around, as if the hour of confrontation was near. Abu Sufyan, apprehensive and scared, and as suspicious as ever, wanted to find out for himself what was happening.

ABU SUFYAN THE ENEMY BECOMES ABU SUFYAN THE MUSLIM

It was quite dark, and while Abu Sufyan was on his way to investigate the fires, he met a friend and stood to say a few words with him. Just at that moment, Al Abbas heard Abu Sufyan's voice. Al Abbas was on his way back to Mecca to break the news of the coming Muslim force. When Al Abbas heard the voice of Abu Sufyan, he stopped the mare he was riding, and broke the news to him. Al Abbas told Abu Sufyan all about the Muslim force and its aim.

A sworn enemy of Islam and the leader for its destruction, Abu Sufyan thought his days were over. He had a sinking sensation, as if the earth was caving from under him. His eyes were wide open, his mouth dry, and his heart beat violently, even his legs could hardly support him.

Al Abbas, seeing the pathetic condition Abu Sufyan was in, felt sorry for him. He suggested, then, to take Abu Sufyan under his custody. He let Abu Sufyan ride with him on the mare of the Prophet, and the two of them changed direction to the headquarters, to the Prophet (pbuh), rather than Mecca, as intended.

As they were passing by, Omar saw them and he recognized who they were. He was as angry as could be, went on foot racing with Al Abbas to reach the Prophet before they could. He wanted to ask permission from the Prophet (pbuh) to cut off Abu Sufyan's head immediately. Such was the feeling of most Muslims at the time.

Omar felt obliged to do so, since Abu Sufyan had been the gravest enemy of Islam for so many years. However, both Omar and Al Abbas arrived at the same time, and Al Abbas immediately declared that Abu Sufyan was in his protection and under custody. Once so declared, the Prophet felt obliged to accept, meaning that no one could harm Abu Sufyan. It was too late for Omar, therefore, to ask for what he wished to do with Abu Sufyan.

After a short question and answer, Abu Sufyan, the grave enemy of Muhammad (pbuh) and Islam, hesitatingly, if not half-heartedly, accepted Islam. Abu Sufyan became Muslim perhaps out of fear, to save his life, but at least he did become trouble- shooter for Islam now and not the trouble-maker.

The Prophet (pbuh) gave Abu Sufyan an important mission, to start only after the Muslim force had begun to enter Mecca. Muhammad (pbuh) did not trust Abu Sufyan, he made sure Abu Sufyan spent the night under Muslim guard separated from other Meccans.

THE MECCANS IN GREAT FEAR

The Meccans looked around, and they saw the fires on every hill-top around Mecca, and the smoke was going up to the sky! So many fires were there that everywhere you looked you saw one. There was a deep sense of fear, as if a impending disaster was about to happen. The Meccans had no smiling faces, only gloom. They could never escape, they thought, even if they wanted to. Suppose they escaped, where would they go? "Senseless," the people of Mecca thought. They could hardly sleep. The streets were empty and quiet. Not even the dogs were barking; and the fear of death was looming in front of their very eyes.

NEXT MORNING, ENTER MECCA

With strict orders not to shoot unless forced to, the Muslim forces marched from north, south, east, and west, the focus was Mecca. Abu Sufyan, held in custody since he was not to be trusted, looked around with an eye of envy. He dearly loved prestige, power and a sense of importance, and to him this was what really mattered. Abu Sufyan was very envious of the Muslims and in particular Muhammad (pbuh). He was so envious of Muhammad (pbuh) that he told Al Abbas with an obvious tone of resentment, "O Al Abbas! By God, the son of your brother had become a real king by now."

This shows that even at such a moment of religious triumph, Abu Sufyan was thinking of power! Worldly pursuits seem to matter the most, it seems he missed the true meaning of Islam. While the Prophet (pbuh) had surmounted the impossible for the success of Allah's religion, Abu Sufyan thinks of the apparent power Muhammad had achieved. Muhammad (pbuh) strived for no power except that for Islam, his aim was one and only, the success of Islam and raising its flag ever so high, nothing else mattered.

And while the armies were marching toward Mecca, Abu Sufyan and Al Abbas were to perform their mission, they were to mediate with the indigent Meccans. The Muslim troops were making the decisive hour happen, they were confident and alert, yet looking for a chance for peace. One factor to peace was the mission of Al Abbas and Abu Sufyan.

THEY PLAYED THE ROLE WELL

While their anxiety and fear were sky high, the people of Mecca heard Abu Sufyan screaming, as loud as he could, over and over again.

"Muhammad's forces are around you; it is suicidal to engage in a fight, it is senseless to do that. But he who enters Abu Sufyan's house will be safe. He who stays in his own house will be safe. And he who enters the mosque in Mecca will be safe. Look for safety in these places."

He kept repeating this message over and over again, never mind his voice becoming hoarse. This responsibility was a special favor, a favor given to him by the Prophet (pbuh).

WHAT A DECISION!

What a relief! The apprehensive Meccans knew then at best they would not be killed, they were going to be safe. All that there was to do was not to attempt to fight the Muslims. It sounded a friendly and an attractive gesture.

And it was Abu Sufyan himself, their leader, the one who wanted to destroy Muhammad (pbuh), who was calling persistently, asking them to lay down their arms! He must have become Muslim, the Meccans thought, otherwise he would never urge them this way. He wanted to save them too, otherwise he wouldn't bring the Prophet's message.

Having had no sleep, with the possibility of death replaced by the hope of life, the light of dawn began to replace the darkness of the night. As did Islam; it dispersed the darkness of ignorance with the light of Allah.

The Meccans decided to read the signs and go with the Muslims, rather than fight and be in real trouble. It was better for them to swallow their pride and be alive, than otherwise. Wasn't the stubbornness absurd? Wasn't it time for them to join the "Real ones?"

MECCA IS IN HIS HANDS: O GLORY TO ALLAH

The Muslims met no resistance on their way, there was no fighting, it was a smooth, and sweet advance. The Muslim force came in four divisions, entering Mecca according to the instruction given to it by Muhammad (pbuh). Only Khalid Ibnil Waleed had to fight, but it was a very brief encounter. The whole affair was almost unbelievable, just imagine, to enter the headquarter of the enemy with almost no bloodshed, no difficulty, and no trouble.

▪ Muhammad the Prophet, being in his tent, must have gone in his memories back to the many years before. He must have thought of the promise of Allah, and of victory, and how the victory was being well fulfilled with no war. There was a happy, cool feeling, a feeling of being grateful to the Almighty and His plans, a peaceful feeling that there was no terrible fighting, killing, or violence.

▪ It was a long twenty years filled with attempts of every imaginable magnitude against Islam. It was pagan Quraish who declared the monstrous war against Islam and the Muslims, and not for a year or two but for 20 years or so! But the disbelievers gave in finally, and that was in spite of all their inhuman methods of persecution, ridicule and ill treatment, and in spite of all the regular wars they waged against Islam and the Muslims.

▪ Allah (swt) wanted victory for Islam and the Muslims, and the early Muslims were the ones who were to be the instruments for that victory. They were to stand firm and solid, and to happily fight for it. The early Muslims looked forward to death and martyrdom in their defense of Islam, and they were offered life and happiness.

▪ As the Muslim forces entered Mecca from every direction, they were watched carefully, fearfully, and enviously by the people of Mecca. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) went toward the Ka'ba, then around it seven times (Tawaf).

AND PROPHET MUHAMMAD GAVE A SPEECH

It was at the door of the Ka'ba that the Prophet (pbuh) stood up. Immediately, he was surrounded by a huge and excited crowd of Muslims who had been blessed with a striking victory. Their faces were cheerful, they were all smiles. Their hearts were pulsing with happiness and a feeling of comfort. The Meccans were there too, they were curious, feeling nervous and on edge, each quite anxious to know what was going to happen to him.

Prophet Muhammad gave a speech, short and to the point. The speech emphasized abolishing the custom of revenge, shedding blood, the exaggerated sense of pride in ancestry and other silly customs of the pagans. He declared the equality of all people, whatever their color, race, or nationality. He declared too that the only ones who excel in the sight of Allah are the righteous and pious.

The Prophet never asked the people to make him king, to bow to him, to pay him taxes, or any glorification. He never asked the disbelievers of Mecca for any penalty, nor imposed a martial law. He never asked them for any privileges, nor did he put any conditions. As a matter of fact, his stand was such as to be the highest model for all humanity to follow, with admiration and respect.

IT WAS A SWEET, SWEET PARDON

Quraish and other disbelievers of Mecca were gathering in a bigger crowd. "Oh how superb that was!" they said, as they were looking at him with admiration. As scared and petrified as they were, they could not help but admire him ever so much.

There was a short period of silence, the crowd was very anxious to hear the Prophet (pbuh). They heard him put it briefly, in one short sentence. He asked:

"O YOU PEOPLE OF QURAISH!

WHAT DO YOU THINK I AM GOING TO DO TO YOU?"

With a pleading voice, a voice pleading for forgiveness, done in an indirect way, they said,

"YOU ARE A NOBLE BROTHER, AND THE SON OF A NOBLE BROTHER! WE EXPECT GOODNESS FROM YOU."

A few seconds passed, then Muhammad (pbuh) answered:

"NO BLAME ON YOU AS OF THIS DAY. GO, YOU ARE FREED (AL TULAQAA')."

And in one sentence the disbelievers were all forgiven. His former enemies, the ones who for twenty years, abused, hurt and banished him, and the ones who hated him so much were all forgiven. What a pleasant surprise, how grand, how decent and how wonderful!

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) loved everyone and he was the friend of everyone. He came to this world to bring sweet mercy and goodness to it; there was no revenge in his heart, no feeling but that of love toward other men. That superb stand of his showed his love and his tremendous power of forgiveness. What an example!

AL-TULAQAA'

Al-Tulaqaa': People of Mecca who converted to Islam after Mecca was triumphed over by the Muslims.
Al-Tulaqaa' was a term used to belittle these persons.
Mu'awiya, for one, often referred to himself reprimanding as one of the Tulaqaa''.

Mu'awiya was the son of Abu Sufyan, the leader of the disbelievers to destroy Islam. Later, Mu'awiya played an adversary role in Islamic history.

AND THE IDOLS WERE FELLED

When Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) entered the Ka'ba, he saw no less than 360 idols, all made in different shapes and forms, and all stationed around the Ka'ba or on top of it. He, along with Ali, got into action immediately. They felled one idol after another, making a rubble out of them. The floor around the Ka'ba became littered with hundreds of heads, of this idol or that, the legs or the arms of some others. The idol's noses and ears were rolling here and there, and the rubble became thicker and thicker.

While Muhammad (pbuh) and other Muslims were doing that, the people around could hear them quoting the Holy Quran happily (Surah 15 : Ayah 81):

قل جاء الحـق وزهق الباطل

إن الباطل كان زهـوقا

"TRUTH HAS COME AND FALSEHOOD HAS

DISAPPEARED. SURELY FALSEHOOD IS BOUND TO

DISAPPEAR.

The Ka'ba, a scene during Haj nowadays

The Ka'ba during Haj nowadays

AND THEY PRAYED, NOW THAT THEY ARE FREE

When time for Salat became due, Bilal called the Athan, and it was an Athan with the famous melodic voice. The people rushed, going in lines, quietly, one straight line after another. It was a blessed historic occasion. For the first time ever, the Muslims prayed in the Ka'ba without fear or restrictions. Those Muslims were at the pinnacle of their happiness, no doubt.

▪ The disbelievers of Mecca, defeated yet set free, saw a grand thing in front of them. Upon hearing the Salat, seeing the Muslims in action, and feeling relieved and free, they were in conflict. They had gone through so much and such fast change in such a short time, it was overwhelming. They needed time to adjust, but events kept happening, the events overtook them.

▪ What a turmoil, and what a fast change! Only a few days back they were the usual Meccans, feeling superior, the people of power, and having the upper hand. Suddenly they discover the Muslim forces around them, pouring in, descending on them like lightning. And of all people, Abu Sufyan himself, their schemer to destroy Islam, was urging them now not to fight Muhammad (pbuh)!

▪ The disbelievers saw themselves at the mercy of Muhammad (pbuh), the very one they fought and tried to destroy. Yet, with such unimaginable generosity, Muhammad (pbuh) forgave them, giving them their freedom. Now, all of sudden, their idols, whom they thought were their gods, were smashed to a heap of rubble.

▪ The disbelievers also witnessed a remarkable feat. It was the serene pleasing Salat, offered to glorify the Almighty, done in reverence, and not by a few but by 10,000 or so! It looked as if a sea of humanity were moving together. They bowed not to idols, but to the Maker, the Creator, to Allah (swt).

▪ Yet, upon seeing the dedication of the Muslims for the service of Allah, the power of Allah began to grow in the hearts of the indigent Meccans. Instead of posing, as they did before, as the enemies of Allah and His Prophet, they became possessed with an irresistible urge. Muhammad (pbuh) never forced them to become Muslims, but they wanted to be accepted to Islam, out of their own free will. The question remained whether they would be accepted or not?

IN GROUPS THEY COME

They came to the Prophet (pbuh) in groups, one after another, big and small, and they converted to Islam anxiously. In the hundreds, even in the thousands, they came and embraced Islam. They were spellbound, coming out from the depth of ignorance to the heights of ecstasy, Islam! Muhammad (pbuh) had just given them the best gift; justice and goodness, love and mercy. It was such as they never before dreamed of. Even Abu Sufyan's wife, Hind, the woman who during the battle of Ohod chewed on the liver of Hamza out of hate and spite, came to the Prophet and announced her conversion to Islam. She was accepted and the past was forgiven, as painful as it was!

Those were glorious days, days of victory of Faith, of seeing people rushing to declare their faith. It made the Muslims very, very happy indeed, and rightly so.

TRIUMPHING OVER MECCA

10,000 Muslims march toward Mecca in full secrecy.
Al Abbas on his way to convert to Islam, startled to discover about the Muslim forces, declares his Shahaada, then is given Duldul to trouble-shoot.

Al Abbas meets Abu Sufyan and informs him of the massive Muslim force.
Abu Sufyan is taken in custody of Al Abbas, both head toward Muhammad (pbuh).
Omar finds out about Abu Sufyan and wants to kill him after getting permission.
Abu Sufyan converts to Islam, but is kept under guard till next morning.
Abu Sufyan is given the role of trouble-shooting too.

Muslims enter Mecca, no fight breaks out.
The Idols are felled and destroyed by Muhammad (pbuh) and Ali.
Bilal calls for the Athan and they pray in freedom.

Muhammad (pbuh) gives a speech delineating human rights.
The Meccans, (disbelievers) Quraish or otherwise are forgiven—called TULAQAA'.
The Meccans embrace Islam, Al-Hamdu Lillaah!

The Holy Quran attests to this by Surah Nasr. The Holy Quran by now is a massive accumulation of Revelations. It is always immediately registered on parchment of other available material. The collection is at the house of the Prophet (pbuh) for later compilation in the form we see it to day.

THE SMOOTH GOING DID STUMBLE

No more than two weeks had passed, and while Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and the Muslims were busy spreading Islam in Mecca, they heard jarring news: Two powerful tribes, not far from Mecca, wanted to fight the Muslims. Their aim was to crush Islam.

The Muslims had ten thousand fighters, ready at hand. To that, 2,000 extra were added, who were the new converts to Islam from Mecca; in other words the ones who previously fought against Islam for so long, but since they had just converted to Islam, they wanted to defend it!

The Muslims marched, their direction was the area the tribes were stationed for the intended confrontation. It took one and a half days of marching before they reached Hunain, where the enemy was in readiness. The Muslims were overconfident, and understandably so, feeling that no army on earth could ever defeat them. After all, they were 12,000 strong, weren't they? "Who would dare to stand in their way!" they thought.

The enemy was smart, with good strategic plans. Their archers were on the sides of two rugged mountains, hiding and ready. Their plan was to plant fear and chaos in the hearts of the Muslims, just as the Muslims pass through the valley. When chaos reigns, they would startle the Muslims with a surprise attack.

IN THE MIDDLE OF HUNAIN

It was early dawn, still dark. The Muslims had advanced well through the wide valley, to meet the enemy. The Muslims were unsuspecting. Never did they know that the enemy was hiding, quietly, alert, and ready for a surprise attack.

It was very quiet, even the birds hadn't started to sing; it was dark and the air was still. The Muslims were passing through the valley till they were in its middle, and all of a sudden, showers of arrows came pouring on them. Arrows kept pouring and pouring. The arrows came in every direction, wounding this Muslim and killing that, and it was way too dark for the Muslims to see clearly. The wounded cried and moaned. Terrified, the horses reared unmanageably, and this led to tremendous confusion in the Muslim ranks. The confusion was followed by running, pushing and shouting everywhere. There was confusion and disorder, and on top of that, the arrows of the enemy kept pouring, making things go from bad to worse.

The Muslims began to run away. They ran in different directions, and during this turmoil, thousands of enemy fighters rushed after them, attacking from the mountains around. It was a highly successful surprise attack, the Muslims suffered a lot and paid a heavy price.

Fortunately by now, dawn became less dark, and people could see somewhat better. The Muslims were in chaos and much fear, each running for his life; and the enemy was united, merciless, looking as if about to win any moment.

The Prophet (pbuh) was firmly surrounded by his relatives, including, of course, Ali and Al Abbas. They were as busy as could be driving off the attackers, defending the Prophet (pbuh) with all they could, with every ounce of their power. No matter how critical the situation was, or was going to be, it never scared those defenders of his, nor did the fleeing of the Muslims discourage them. The Prophet's defense was to be first in priority, no matter what. That is how Ali understood it, and how Al Abbas and others understood it too.

Upon seeing the Muslim fighters in chaos and retreat, the recently Muslim Abu Sufyan said sarcastically, belittling Muhammad, "These people who conquered Quraish yesterday, will not stop fleeing till they reach the sea." He felt like getting even with the Muslims, psychological revenge, though for only a moment! Abu Sufyan couldn't hide his true self toward the Prophet (pbuh) and Islam, the very thing he fought against for so long. To him, what mattered was power; principles didn't exist, and Islamic teachings and what they called for were distant, unreal.

PROPHET MUHAMMAD STANDS FIRM

In the middle of the Hunain panic, with the enemy close to the Prophet attacking, Muslims running away Al Abbas yelled with a loud commanding voice. His call was for the Muslims to rush, to protect Muhammad (pbuh). He called repeatedly, and his voice, commanding and loud, shook the valley with echoes and vibrations.

The Prophet also shouted, as loud as he could, saying:

"I am the Messenger of Allah. There is no falsehood about me.

I am the son of Abdul Mut'talib."

That rallied everyone; it worked like a miracle. It suddenly brought the frightened Muslims to their senses, that they were fighting for Allah and Islam. How silly it was of them to flee for their lives, how incomprehensible. The call of Muhammad (pbuh) and that of Al Abbas brought about an immediate change. Suddenly the Muslims changed direction, each feeling like a lion. The new direction was unified, toward the enemy, to confront and crush him by now, rather than flee from him. (Surah 9: Ayah 25-27.)

The Muslim fighters rushed to join with a zeal hard to match, and with a volcanic power, an iron will. The enemy excitedly attacking a moment ago, was jolted by the Muslims, taken by surprise by their reversal.

The Muslims poured in, their direction was the enemy, one wave after another, attacking the enemy, and playing havoc with it. Now, the cries and disorder became that of the enemy. The enemy became the target of attacks, and it ran helter skelter, leaving arms and belongings behind. It took a good many hours before the battle cooled down, a battle of ups and downs, a battle of heavy cost in lives.

HUNAIN, WHAT A BATTLE

What a battle Hunain was! The Muslims almost lost it at first, but eventually won. What a great effect Islam had in the hearts of the Muslims! What a change of direction afterwards!

The enemy was dealt a blow despite its number. It left behind families, belongings, weapons and just about everything. The prisoners alone were 6,000. Some of the fleeing enemy took refuge in nearby Ta'if, the same town to which Muhammad the Prophet went before to preach Islam. It was in that town, and as a result of his preaching, that he was hurt so much.

SIEGE OF TA'IF

The Muslims changed direction too, and chased the enemy toward Ta'if. Ta'if was a fortified city, with very stubborn enemies inside. Their resistance was tough and the Muslims put up a siege for almost a whole month. The Prophet felt it was better not to press hard, to leave Ta'if alone, since there was a possibility they would convert to Islam later on.

LOVE THY ENEMY

The spoils of the battle of Hunain were tremendous. However, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) gave a great deal of it to the Meccans who had recently converted to Islam. Even Abu Sufyan got far more than his share, far more than he had ever expected or deserved.

The earlier Muslims, however, became sad: they thought that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was favoring the Meccans and the new converts. After hearing this, the Prophet gave a beautiful speech in which he touched the hearts of the listeners to such an extent that tears rolled down their cheeks. They became relieved when Muhammad (pbuh) said he was returning with them to Medina, as their "spoils," while the Meccans were to go to Mecca with what he gave them, as their spoils. So, the early Muslims, the real veterans, felt assured that they got the greatest prize, the Prophet (pbuh) himself.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE HUNAIN CONFRONTATION

Challenging enemy strategically lay in hiding for the Muslims.
In defense of Islam, 12,000 Muslims go for the challenge.
In the dark the enemy showers the marching Muslims with arrows.
Muslims flee, leaving Muhammad (pbuh) and few others behind.
Muslims are called upon by Al Abbas and Muhammad (pbuh).
Muslims regroup, counterattack and win the battle.
Much spoils are at hand, distributed in favor of the Meccan recent converts.
Muhammad (pbuh) goes to Medina as "the booty to the Medanese".

Hunain was an important event because the recent converts of Mecca participated to defend Islam. It demonstrates too how the Muslims respond once they hear the name of the Prophet (pbuh).

BACK IN MEDINA

Back home, the Muslims with joyful hearts and tender memories became busier than ever in accepting one delegate after another, all wishing to embrace Islam. They became the great skillful teachers of Islam of the future. Medina was as busy as a bee hive, pulsing with life, more than ever before. Medina became the focus, where many, many groups of people came to become Muslims, and they learned about Islam, then they left to teach their own people about it.

AHLUL BAYT

إِنَّمَا يُرِيدُ اللَّهُ لِيُذْهِبَ عَنكُمُ الرِّجْسَ أَهْلَ الْبَيْتِ وَيُطَهِّرَكُمْ تَطْهِيرًا

"VERILY, ALLAH HAS DECREED TO PURIFY YOU, O' AHLUL BAYT

AND SANCTIFY YOU IN A PERFECT WAY.

Surah 33: Ayah 33.

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was at the house of his wife Umm Salama. The house was modest, tidy, and clean. There was a cool breeze that dissipated the heat of the day. Umm-Salama was busy with her chores. She heard the Prophet (pbuh) saying, "Bring them to me, bring them to me." He immediately wanted to see Fatima, Ali, and their two sons. They rushed in at once, since there was an air of urgency in the call.

Excitedly Muhammad (pbuh) asked Al-Hasan, Al-Husain, and Fatima to cover themselves with the mantle, then asked Ali to do likewise, and he did so himself too. Shared that way, the mantle partly covered everyone of them. It became a visible uniting piece, binding all five of them as one unit.

Before they wanted to ask him what it was all about, the Prophet (pbuh) lifted his hands toward heaven and said,

"DEAR LORD THIS IS AHLUL BAYT, THIS IS MY AHLUL BAYT

THANKS FOR YOUR DECREE TO PURIFY THEM AND SANCTIFY THEM."

Muhammad (pbuh) spoke to his family, saying that Gabriel had just revealed to him a unique Ayah, an Ayah whereby Allah had decreed to purify and sanctify them, calling them Ahlul Bayt. Umm-Salama then asked, "How about me? Can I come under the blanket?" Her husband, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) replied, "No, you stay where you are, you will be fine."

WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

When this Ayah was revealed, Al-Hasan and Al-Husain were young children, and the Prophet (pbuh) didn't specify any other than Ali (as) and his family to be the "Ahlul Bayt". Thus, Muhammad (pbuh), Ali (a.s.) Fatima (a.s.), Al-Hasan, and Al-Husain constituted a group of five, the components of Ahlul Bayt. The Prophet's wife or others were not to be included.

This matter is paramount and extremely praiseworthy to say the least. It indicates recognition by Allah Himself of Ahlul Bayt, and a promise by Him to keep them "pure, spotless, and sanctified."

At the time, of course, both Al-Hasan and Al-Husain were young children, and though indirect signs of nobility, virtue, and good potential could be detected in them, yet no one could be sure what the future would unveil for them. History shows us that later events in life, observation of the course in life they took, and the contributions they gave to Islam had, without doubt, verified and confirmed what Allah had promised.

THE PRIEST AND THE CHRISTIAN MISSION

By this time Islam had become dominant, all the disbelievers of Mecca were forgiven and they all accepted Islam shortly after. They wanted to defend Islam rather than fight it!! What a change of heart! Numerous tribes rushed to declare their acceptance of the new religion too. Muhammad (pbuh) was 61 years old, and Ali (as) 31 years old, Al-Hasan 6 years old and Al-Husain 5 years old. Most of the Holy Quran was revealed by this time, and a great deal of the Sunnah had been laid. The Prophet (pbuh) had on numerous occasions declared the closeness of Imam Ali (as) to him, praising his vast knowledge, his splendid works for Islam and his tremendous, indispensable contributions to it. By this time, he repeatedly talked about Ahlul Bayt (For more detail see Book Life of Ahlul Bayt Vol. I of the Series of Islamic Books for Beginners.)

It was now that a Patriarch with a group of 20 Christians representative of their community had come all the way to Medina. They came from a far away place about 1200 miles south. Theirs was to be a fact finding mission about this new religion. They had kept hearing so much about it, especially recently. Once in Medina, the group had a long meeting with Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). As expected, most of their questions were about the Messiah Jesus, his birth and his mother, and whether he was crucified, resurrected, etc. The answers of the Prophet (pbuh) were direct, they were from the Holy Quran.

The Christians were baffled, amazed and somewhat bewildered. They couldn't but be extremely impressed with the sincerity and honesty of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). His answers and his very qualities gave them a sense of trust in him. His answers were somewhat different from their beliefs, yet they were to be considered.

Since an Ayah had already come down asking these people for Mubaahala, i.e., a challenge with a Du'aa (special prayer), the Prophet (pbuh) suggested to them do so. A Mubaahala meant that each of the two groups prays to Allah to put His curse on those who were lying about the information he is giving! In other words, if it were done, and Prophet Muhammad was saying the truth, then the curse of Allah would be on the Christian group and whatever Allah chooses to do to them will come to be!

The Ayah said in Surah 3: Ayah 61.

فَمَنْ حَآجَّكَ فِيهِ مِن بَعْدِ مَا جَاءكَ مِنَ الْعِلْمِ

فَقُلْ تَعَالَوْاْ نَدْعُ أَبْنَاءنَا وَأَبْنَاءكُمْ وَنِسَاءنَا وَنِسَاءكُمْ وَأَنفُسَنَا وأَنفُسَكُمْ

ثُمَّ نَبْتَهِلْ فَنَجْعَل لَّعْنَةُ اللّهِ عَلَى الْكَاذِبِينَ

"THEN SAY: LET US CALL UPON OUR CHILDREN AND

YOUR CHILDREN, OUR LADIES AND YOUR LADIES,

OURSELVES AND YOURSELVES,

THEN WE PRAY SO THAT

ALLAH'S WRATH WILL BE UPON THOSE WHO TELL UNTRUTH"

NEXT DAY:

Next day they all went to the meeting place, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) with Al-Hasan and Al-Husain, each holding one of his hands, and Ali (a.s.) and his wife Fatima (a.s.) following. This was the very five components of Ahlul Bayt, the ones who were the dearest and closest to the heart of the Prophet (pbuh). No, it wasn't a wife of his, an aunt, uncle or anyone else, instead it was only the very dearest people to him, it was Ahlul Bayt. He took them because they represented to him the very essence, the very ones that were most important in this world and for their potential for later on!

Upon finding out all about that, the Patriarch became startled, and frightened. He was taken aback! He immediately consulted with the 20 members of his group. To them, they said, it was quite obvious that Muhammad was saying nothing but the truth, and what he had told them had been in all sincerity and truthfulness. It was obvious by now that to them he was the Prophet, otherwise he would never have brought anyone else other than the closest people to him.

To call upon Allah to put a curse on people, they also thought, would bring certain damnation on themselves because the evidence indicated the truth of this man, Muhammad (pbuh), and Allah would certainly respond to a Prophet, and in this they stood an immediate chance to destruction or ruin!

Having debated the matter for a while, the Patriarch came forward, having a look of satisfaction and esteem on his face, and he expressed to Muhammad (pbuh) his wish. His wish was for an immediate withdrawal from the Mubaahala! The Patriarch also said:

"If it weren't for my obligations with the emperor,

I would certainly have changed to Islam!"

Arrangements for some kind of a treaty was then written and signed. The Patriarch along with his group, left Medina with much food for thought.

RUMORS OF ROMAN INVASION

Rumors reached Medina that the Byzantines (Romans) were going to invade it. The rumors became more and more frequent. To be prepared, Muhammad (pbuh) decided to gather a large force. It was blistering hot summer, dry, and uncomfortable. But that never stopped the Prophet (pbuh) from preparations. The largest army ever came under his command: 30,000 strong, 10,000 on horses and 20,000 on foot or on camel backs.

Muhammad (pbuh) left his beloved Ali to be in charge of Medina to be his deputy, to be its Mayor, to rule the area during his absence. As he announced this important appointment, and as he heard Ali wishing to join the force, Muhammad (pbuh) turned to Ali and said:

"YOU ARE TO ME AS AARON WAS TO MOSES, EXCEPT THAT THERE ARE NO PROPHETS AFTER ME."

Aaron was a Prophet, and he was the brother and supporter of Prophet Moses. To be as Aaron was to Musa shows how highly Ali was considered by the Prophet (pbuh) i.e., as if he were his brother, or his deputy or the one to replace him. The difference is that Ali couldn't be a Prophet, as Aaron.

Ali who was the closest to the Prophet and the most committed supporter of Islam, was now dignified with the highest honor. He was proclaimed like a brother to the Prophet. Ali, therefore, was a man to carry on the application of the Message of Islam, a man to explain the Message to the unknowing masses, be it new or old Muslims.

Ali, therefore, was to be the Prophet's deputy, the man to carry on and to keep carrying on the Great Message of Allah, Islam. This was the greatest honor that could be given to a man, and Ali, the beloved cousin of the Prophet, was not only capable but also deserving of this honor, because of who he is in the sight of Allah (swt).

THEY REACH TABUK

With a great deal of zeal, and in spite of the blistering heat, the Muslims reached the Syrian border. It was a harsh, long, and tiresome trip, but Muhammad's magnetic power and tireless energy knew no limits. The secret agents of the Byzantines (Romans) were everywhere, watching and listening to every move of the Muslims. The news reached the Romans, and they knew the Muslims were serious. Remembering how the Muslims fought during the Mu'ta battle of only two years back, the Romans became frightened. Apprehensive, the Romans went to their forts, for defense and shelter. As a result, they never engaged the Muslims in a battle.

The Muslim force, as large as it was, stayed twenty days in that area, and it made mutual defense agreements with many local tribes. This way, Muslims gained friends and helpers, and at the same time safety at the frontiers.

THE YEAR OF DEPUTATION

Safe and sound in Medina, the Muslims kept receiving numerous groups, representing various tribes and towns. They came to convert to Islam. They were becoming Muslims by the thousands. What a feeling of relief and comfort. Finally, the Message of Allah was taken up by just about everyone, and Allah's victory was entering their hearts.

Even Ta'if sent a delegation to announce their readiness to become Muslims. After some negotiations, an agreement was reached, and the idols of Ta'if were to be broken to pieces by the Muslims. As those idols were smashed, the women of Ta'if were crying their hearts out,

still feeling emotional attachment to those idols.

The people of Ta'if did not have the nerve to destroy their unsightly idols by themselves. That was the reason the Muslims did it for them. But the whole stubborn town did accept Islam, and became its defendant later.

HE IS THE RULER

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was 63 years old, and by then just about all of Arabia became Muslim. Islam had become the very religion and the heart of every thing in every corner of Arabia. Muhammad the Prophet (pbuh) was the head of state, yet, still he was the same Muhammad, the same leader with humility, love, and justice, who lived as a regular man. He had no guards to protect him, no soldiers to be around him, or any secret police.

Though Muhammad (pbuh) was the head of State and universally loved by everyone in Arabia, he continued to live humbly, in a modest house, wore nothing but coarse clothes, and ate simple ordinary food. He had practically no money, and he still worked at home as his own servant. He hated flattery, though he was full of the spirit of noblesse oblige.

When Pilgrimage time became due, the Prophet (pbuh) set out to do the great Haj. It was the first regular Haj since the Hijrah, since the previous ones were Omrah only.

From all over Arabia, north, south, east, and west, people came to participate. Rich and poor, from the deserts or from the towns, mountains and valleys, they came to take part, to be with the Prophet (pbuh) and to enjoy the tremendous occasion.

One hundred thousand to one hundred fourteen thousand Muslims were there, in the biggest gathering ever, of those days. Tents were pitched, dotting the hills and valleys for miles around.

All were happy, feeling good, and with contented hearts. All were with a spirit of brotherhood, cooperation, kindness, and goodness—no more gambling or drinking, no more savagery or tearing each other apart. All came to learn how to perform Haj; this time they were the students, next year they would be the teachers. All came to learn equality in action, and to put it into practice. Ignorance and unruly life had disappeared, virtue and acts of goodness had taken over. Glory be to Allah!

THEY PERFORM HAJ

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) put on the Pilgrim garb (Ihraam), and all Muslims did likewise; all looked alike, rich and poor, noblemen or laborers. With bodies cleaned and washed, hearts purified with the light of Islam, the Muslims heard Muhammad (pbuh) giving the signal, "Labai'ka Allahumma, Labai'k" which means, "Here I am at Your service, O Lord."

As Prophet Muhammad said it, 100,000 throats said likewise, making the hills and the deserts vibrate and echo reverently. What a sublime spiritual awakening! Not only their hearts beat with it savagely, but even their hair was standing on end—in awe, respect, and admiration. What a beautiful sight!

HE GIVES A SPEECH

Muhammad (pbuh) gave a speech, for which the heart of each Muslim beat, and it beat very hard. The Muslims were all ears. It was the first declaration of Human Rights in history.

HE PREDICTED HE WAS NOT GOING TO BE WITH THEM THE FOLLOWING YEAR.

HE SPOKE ABOUT JUSTICE, VIRTUE AND DECENT LIVING,

HE EMPHASIZED FAIRNESS TO WOMEN AND WIVES.

HE SPOKE OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF EACH MUSLIM TO THE OTHER,

AND OF BEING LAWFUL TO THE LAW OF ALLAH.

HIS SPEECH AFFIRMED THE TEACHINGS OF THE QURAN

AND HIS ADVICE WAS WELL TAKEN TO HEART.

When finished, Muhammad (pbuh) prayed noon‑Salat immediately followed by the afternoon Salat.

ON HIS WAY TO MEDINA (GHADEER KHUM)

Muhammad the Prophet was accompanied and followed by a huge group of Muslims. His direction was Medina. He suddenly stopped at a place 3 miles north of Mecca, called Ghadeer Khum. It was Friday, one week after Aright. The multitude of thousands were summoned to be around, close to him, as close as practical. It was the huge crowd indeed, the more than 100,000, one of the biggest Arabia had ever seen in those days.

He delivered his famous speech, speaking of Ali: his beloved cousin, son‑in‑law, and the most ardent supporter of Islam. He lifted Ali's arm and started his speech by saying:

من كنـت مولاه فهــذا علي مولاه

أللهم والِ من والاه وعاد من عاداه وانصـر من نصـره واخـذل من خـذله وأدر الحـق معـه حيــثما دار

"WHOSOEVER I HAVE AUTHORITY OVER HIM,

SO THIS ALI IS TO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER HIM.

O LORD, SUPPORT HIM WHO SUPPORTS ALI,

AND BE AGAINST HIM WHO IS AGAINST ALI

AND DISFAVOR HIM WHO DISFAVORS ALI,

AND LET THE TRUTH GO WITH ALI WHEREVER HE GOES..."

Ghadeer Khum nowadays

This was the Prophet's famous speech witnessed by thousands upon thousands of Muslims. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) let it be known, of his full support of Ali, and it confirmed his belief in the ability and capability of Ali. It was his announcement that Ali was to be the one in charge of the Ummah after the Prophet (pbuh). The speech emphasized the way Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) saw what Ali could do, and how his role in the Islamic nation ought to be. It clearly showed how the Prophet (pbuh) saw the great potential Ali, so he revealed to the people what Allah wanted him to convey. (For more detail and references see book Life of Ahlul Bayt Vol. I of the Series of Islamic Books for beginners.)

When he was finished he was seen to suddenly become very still, not a part of his body moving, his eyes fixed in a gaze at the sky, he was breathing heavily, and the sweat was pouring down his forehead and cheeks. You see, he was seeing Jubra'eel once more with a Revelation, and what a Revelation it was.

Allah said in Surah 5: Ayah 3.

الْيَوْمَ أَكْمَلْتُ لَكُمْ دِينَكُمْ وَأَتْمَمْتُ عَلَيْكُمْ نِعْمَتِي

وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ الإِسْلاَمَ دِينًا

THIS DAY,

I HAVE PERFECTED TO YOU YOUR FAITH,

AND COMPLETED MY BLESSINGS UPON YOU,

AND I HAVE CHOSEN FOR YOU AL‑ISLAM AS

YOUR RELIGION

The Prophet immediately recited the new verse to all present. It said in effect, that Allah Himself has completed the Message of Islam, and that the Islamic teachings had come to an end. In other words, the Revelations were coming to an end.

The Muslims who had converted to Islam recently were very surprised to see the changes in the Prophet's face while receiving the Revelation. But the older Muslims were anxious to hear the Revelation itself. They had seen the same changes in the Prophet's face numerous times before, whenever he received a Revelation, therefore, such changes were not strange to them.

When Abu Bakr heard about the last verse, he wept and the tears came down his cheeks, wetting his white beard. He suspected then that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was to meet the

Lord soon, and his departure from the Muslims was not too far off. His feelings came true as we shall see soon.

AND SO THEY LEFT

The thousands and thousands of Muslims who performed Haj, left for home with such beautiful, colorful, and pleasant memories, memories never to be forgotten. Oh, how glorious the whole thing was, and how glorious was Islam.

Their hearts were tarnished with fear of losing Muhammad the Messenger (pbuh), since they heard him giving the warning. But they thought, maybe not, let us hope he will be with us forever. Eternal optimism; after all, Islam is ever optimistic.

NOT TOO LONG LATER, HE FALLS SICK

Prophet Muhammad was having a headache and some rise of temperature. It made him feel sick and weak. The condition lasted for a few days, and he found it more and more difficult to lead the Salat anymore. He couldn't sleep well at night, became restless, his headache more persistent and severe, and his temperature kept going up and down.

On the fourth day of his sickness, he went to Al-Baqii, the graveyard of the Muslim martyrs. He was accompanied by an attendant. Muhammad (pbuh) prayed at the graveyard, prayed to Allah on behalf of all those martyrs. Even when he was very sick and weak, he never forgot the Muslim martyrs.

When he finished praying, he said to the attendant:

"I WAS GIVEN THE CHOICE BETWEEN THE TREASURES OF THIS WORLD AND LASTING ASSURANCE OF THEIR ENJOYMENT,

VERSUS THAT OF HEAVEN (PARADISE).

I CHOSE THE MEETING OF MY LORD AND PARADISE."

NEXT MORNING

Muhammad (pbuh) was still having the headache, which had become quite severe, and his fever made him so weak that he could hardly move, forcing him to lie down. He asked his wives to suggest where he was to stay; and they consented for him to be at A'isha's. Supported by Ali and Al Abbas, he was moved to A'isha's place, with some difficulty. His condition however, became worse.

In spite of his condition, he managed to go to the mosque to give a very short moving speech. In that speech he mentioned again that he was given a choice between the treasures of this world and its lasting enjoyment versus Paradise and meeting his Lord. He mentioned that he chose to meet the Lord.

That speech however, became a terrible strain on him, and made him even weaker. His condition became very serious. His fever was so high that he wanted cold water poured on him. He wasn't able at times, to even get up without feeling faint. His attempts to go and lead the Salat were followed by fainting three times.

HE WHISPERED TO FATIMA

The sickness continued for more than fourteen days. He suffered from the high fever, weakness, and headache a great deal. His family was around him worried, sad, and full of anxiety. They were tending to him the best they could.

He saw his beloved daughter, Fatima, and pointed to her. He whispered in her ear and she cried broken hearted. Then he whispered again and she became cheerful and smiling! Everyone was puzzled. Sometime after, A'isha asked her about what was going on, and Fatima answered, "At first he told me he was not going to recover, so I cried. Then he told me that I would be the first one in his family to join him, so it made me happy and cheerful."

A SHORT‑LIVED IMPROVEMENT

The temperature had come down some, the Prophet (pbuh) felt slightly better, so he wanted to venture to the Mosque. Shaky and weak, looking slightly pale, and helped by Ali and Al Abbas, he went to the Mosque.

The Muslims were praying in a big group, Abu Bakr being the leader of the Salat. There was an unusual movement by the Muslims, as they saw the Prophet (pbuh) unexpectedly join them. Muhammad (pbuh) prayed sitting down, because he felt very weak. When the Salat was finished, he gave a short talk. It made the Muslims feel happy, thinking that the Prophet had recovered.

BACK HOME AT A'ISHA'S

He returned home more exhausted than ever. He lay down, with his head in the lap of his wife A'isha. A'isha was terribly worried about him. It was very quiet in that room, and A'isha's mind was wandering here and there. Suddenly, she heard him saying:

"O ALLAH, HELP ME IN THE AGONY OF DEATH."

A'isha said: "I felt as if his head was getting heavier in my lap. I looked at his face when his eyes looked up in a stare and he said:

"NAY, I CHOOSE THE COMPANION HIGH IN HEAVEN.

YOU SAY: HAVE I MADE MY CHOICE? YES, I HAVE,

AND I SWEAR BY HIM WHO HAS SENT THEE WITH THE

TRUTH."

That was the conversation between him and the Angel of Death. He was offered a choice, and he wanted to meet the Lord. So he was given that choice.

The Prophet's Mosque nowadays

QUESTIONS

How big was the force of the Muslims when they triumphed over Mecca in the eighth year of Hijrah?
The Muslim force to conquer Mecca was relatively large. How could they surprise the Meccans without being detected?
At the time of conquest of Mecca, who of the Meccans first met the Muslims?
How did Al Abbas play the essential role in preventing war when the Muslims surrounded Mecca?
How did Abu Sufyan react when he saw the Muslim force surrounding Mecca?
How did Abu Sufyan become Muslim?
How did the Meccans feel when they saw the Muslims surrounding Mecca?
What was the purpose of lighting the fires at the top of the mountains around Mecca when the Muslims were to conquer it?
How did the Muslims conquer Mecca in the 8th year of Hijrah?
Was a resistance offered to the Muslims when they conquered Mecca?
What was Al Abbas and Abu Sufyan's mission in Mecca while the Muslims were marching to conquer it?
What was Prophet Muhammad's feeling when the Muslims were conquering Mecca?
What was Prophet Muhammad's speech when the Muslims conquered Mecca?
What was the answer of the Meccans to the speech of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) following the conquest of Mecca?
Once Mecca was conquered, Muhammad's (pbuh) pardon of all the disbelievers is regarded as a most unique example in the history of mankind. Why?
After conquering Mecca, who felled the idols one by one?
Who said the Athan at the Ka'ba when the Muslims took over Mecca?
When Mecca was conquered, all the Muslims prayed in one large group, how was the Meccans' feeling?
Following the conquest of Mecca, how did the Meccans become Muslims?
After Mecca was triumphed over, why did the Meccans convert to Islam?
Soon after the conquest of Mecca, some tribes gathered to fight the Muslims? Where was that?
At Hunain, 12,000 Muslims went to face the challenging tribes. Why did the Muslims almost lose?
What made the Muslims go back to Hunain after they started to run away in fear?
Did the Muslims win the battle of Hunain?
What was Abu Sufyan's reaction when he saw the Muslims running away during the battle of Hunain?

After Mecca was conquered, rumors were that the Romans were going to invade them. What did the Muslims do?
What happened at Tabuk?
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) performed a final Haj. This is called the farewell Haj. How many Muslims participated in the Haj with him?
During what time of the year was the Farewell Haj done?
What was the famous speech of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) during the farewell Haj?
On his way back from the Farewell Haj Muhammad (pbuh) gathered the people at Ghadeer Khum. Why?
What did Muhammad (pbuh) say about Ali during the gathering of Ghadeer Khum?
It wasn't too long after the farewell Haj that Muhammad (pbuh) fell ill. What kind of illness did he have?
While Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was very sick which house did he stay in?
When he was sick, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) whispered in the ears of his beloved daughter Fatima. She cried at first then she smiled soon after when he whispered in her ear again. What did he say to her?