The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Abu Bakr ‘Abdullah ibn Abi Quhafa (RA)

Abu Bakr, also known as al-Siddiq (and 'Atiq, meaning handsome), was a close companion of the
Prophet Muhammad (SAW). They had known each other since childhood, and when the
Prophet proclaimed the Oneness of Allah, Abu Bakr was among the first to accept Islam. He
fearlessly spread his faith and faced violent reactions from the Quraysh.
Despite the opposition, Abu Bakr remained steadfast in his faith. He freed Muslim slaves who
were mistreated, including Bilal, who was tortured but remained devoted to Islam. Abu Bakr
exchanged Bilal for a pagan slave, demonstrating his compassion and dedication.
Abu Bakr's close bond with the Prophet was solidified when Muhammad (SAW) married his
daughter, Aisha, after the death of Khadija. He wholeheartedly believed in the Prophet's
miraculous journey to Jerusalem and heaven and was given the title al-Siddiq, meaning
"Testifier to the truth."
When the Prophet and Abu Bakr embarked on the Hijra (migration) from Mecca to Medina, Abu
Bakr had prepared two camels, hoping to accompany the Prophet. They successfully escaped
the Quraysh by hiding in a cave on Mount Thawr. Despite his fears, the Prophet assured Abu
Bakr of Allah's help and protection.
After the Hijra, Abu Bakr supported himself through farming. He joined the Prophet in the Battle
of Badr, sharing a camel with Umar and Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf. He stood by the Prophet in the
Battle of Uhud and participated in expeditions against Khaybar, Hunayn, al-Ta'if, and Syria. Abu
Bakr also backed the Prophet's decision to make peace with the people of Mecca in the Treaty
of al-Hudaybiya.
In 9 AH/CE 630, Abu Bakr led the annual pilgrimage on behalf of the Prophet, marking the last
pilgrimage before the reformed rites were announced. During the Prophet's final days, when he
was too weak to lead prayers, Abu Bakr took his place.
Following the Prophet's death, Abu Bakr played a crucial role in bringing order to the grieving
Muslim community. He emphasized that Muhammad (SAW) was mortal and that Allah alone
should be worshipped. In the subsequent meeting to elect a leader, Abu Bakr's leadership and
command were recognized, and he became the first of the Rightly Guided Caliphs.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (RA)

Hazrat 'Umar (RA) was known for his fierce and formidable character in Makka. His conversion
to Islam had a significant impact on the Muslim community, providing them with added
protection against the Quraysh. The Muslims' ability to pray at the Kaaba was only possible after
'Umar (RA) embraced Islam and fought against the Quraysh, paving the way for others to join
him in prayer.
'Umar (RA) became a Muslim during the time when early Muslims sought refuge in Abyssinia.
Initially filled with anger and resentment towards the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW),
he set out to kill him. However, upon discovering that his own sister, Fatima, and brother-in-law,
Sa'id ibn Zayd, had embraced Islam, he confronted them. Witnessing Khabbab reciting verses
from Surah Ta Ha, 'Umar (RA) demanded to see the written sheets of revelation. In his
eagerness, he pushed his sister and brother-in-law aside, but agreed to purify himself before
touching the sacred scriptures. As he read the words of the Surah, his heart was transformed,
and he immediately went to accept Islam from Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Hazrat 'Umar (RA) migrated to Madina along with the majority of Muslims. He engaged in
farming and became a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), always ready to defend
him against any insults or threats. During the Battle of Badr, he shared a camel with Hazrat Abu
Bakr (RA) and 'Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf (RA). His relationship with the Prophet (SAW)
strengthened further when Prophet Muhammad (SAW) married his daughter, Hazrat Hafsa (RA).
At the Battle of Uhud, Hazrat 'Umar (RA) was among those who formed a protective circle
around the Prophet (SAW). He also participated in the construction of a defensive trench during
the siege of al-Khandaq. His deep loyalty and protectiveness towards the Prophet (SAW) were
evident during the treaty of al-Hudaybiya, where he initially opposed making peace with those
who had mistreated and insulted the Prophet (SAW) and the Muslims. However, he eventually
accepted the wisdom of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) with the persuasion of Hazrat Abu Bakr
(RA), and witnessed the signing of the treaty. Over time, he learned to obey the decisions of the
Prophet (SAW), as demonstrated in the retreat from al-Ta'if in 8 AH/CE 630.
Despite his impulsive nature, 'Umar (RA) played a crucial role in various expeditions following
the Prophet's (SAW) victory over the Quraysh. In 11 AH/CE 632, he participated in the
expedition to Syria. After Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) passing, 'Umar (RA) played a significant
role in ensuring the election of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) as the first Caliph. He later succeeded
Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) as the second Caliph himself.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

‘Uthman ibn ‘Affan (RA)

Hazrat 'Uthman (RA) was an early convert to Islam who accepted the faith under the guidance
of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA). He was married to the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) third daughter,
Ruqayya. Together, they emigrated to Abyssinia, where 'Uthman (RA) established himself as a
successful trader. Upon hearing of peace between the Muslims and the Quraysh, they returned
to Makka.
Upon migrating to Madina, Hazrat 'Uthman (RA) brought enough wealth to secure a
comfortable life for himself and his wife. He continued his successful caravan trade from Makka,
further increasing his financial stability. During the Battle of Badr, the Prophet Muhammad
(SAW) requested 'Uthman (RA) to remain in Madina to care for Ruqayya. Unfortunately, she
passed away before the battle's conclusion. In the same year, 2 AH/CE 624, the Prophet (SAW)
offered 'Uthman (RA) the hand of his second daughter, Umm Kulthum, in marriage. However,
their marriage was short-lived, as Umm Kulthum passed away in 10 AH/CE 631.
'Uthman (RA) enjoyed the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) trust and esteem. He was chosen by the
Prophet (SAW) to inform the Quraysh of his intention to perform a pilgrimage to the Ka'ba
during the treaty of al-Hudaybiya. When the Muslims finally entered Makka, 'Uthman (RA) rode
alongside the Prophet (SAW). During the farewell pilgrimage, he was entrusted with the
responsibility of escorting the Prophet's (SAW) wives.
Hazrat 'Uthman (RA) utilized his wealth for the expansion of Islam and was known for his
remarkable generosity. He made significant contributions to fund the expedition to Tabuk in 8
AH/CE 629, surpassing all previous records and donating a third of the required amount. His
exceptional generosity earned him the title of al-Ghani, "the generous one."
Following the demise of Hazrat 'Umar (RA), Hazrat 'Uthman (RA) assumed the role of the third
Caliph of Islam.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

‘Ali ibn Abu Talib (RA)

'Ali, the son of Abu Talib and the Holy Prophet's uncle and foster father, played significant roles
in the early years of Islam. He was among the first to accept Islam, following the footsteps of
Hazrat Khadija and Hazrat Abu Bakr. At a young age, around ten or eleven, 'Ali became a
follower of the Prophet Muhammad.
'Ali's loyalty and bravery were evident in various historical events. During the Hijra, the Prophet
asked 'Ali to sleep in his bed, deceiving the Quraysh assassins and allowing the Prophet and
Hazrat Abu Bakr to escape. 'Ali also returned the items entrusted to the Prophet. He married
the Prophet's youngest daughter, Hazrat Fatima, and they had two sons, Hasan and Husayn.
Throughout the battles fought by Muslims, 'Ali displayed his fierce warrior skills. He engaged in
single combat, carried the Muslim banner, defended the Prophet at Uhud, defeated opponents
in single combat, and led Muslim forces in expeditions to Fadak and Yemen. He also served as
the scribe for the Treaty of al-Hudaybiya and read out new teachings during a pilgrimage led by
Hazrat Abu Bakr.
'Ali enjoyed a close relationship with the Prophet Muhammad. He was paired with the Prophet
himself when Emigrants and Helpers were paired in Madinah. The Prophet referred to 'Ali as his
brother in this world and the next and compared their relationship to that of Harun and Musa.
At Ghadir Khumm, the Prophet publicly declared 'Ali's leadership role and called on Allah to
support those who support 'Ali and oppose those who oppose him.
Following the Prophet's death, 'Ali washed and buried his body. Although initially hesitant to
acknowledge Hazrat Abu Bakr's leadership, 'Ali eventually gave his allegiance to him, as well as
to Hazrat 'Umar and Hazrat 'Uthman. Later, he was elected as the fourth Caliph himself.
'Ali's significance in Islam is also reflected in various sayings attributed to the Prophet
Muhammad, emphasizing their close relationship and 'Ali's role as a gate to knowledge.
Overall, 'Ali is remembered as a loyal and brave companion of the Prophet, a fierce warrior, and
a significant figure in the early Islamic community.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

‘Abd al-Rahman ibn ‘Awf (RA)

'Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf, a prominent companion of the Prophet Muhammad, played a
significant role in the early years of Islam. He was one of the early Makkan converts to Islam and
accepted the faith from Hazrat Abu Bakr. Like others, he faced hardships in Makka and sought
refuge in Abyssinia to escape the persecution of the Quraysh. 'Abd al-Rahman returned to
Makka and later made the Hijra to Madina with other Muslims.
In Madina, 'Abd al-Rahman took it upon himself to earn a living and did not rely on the support
of his Ansari companion, Saad ibn al-Rabi'. He engaged in trade, selling cheese and butter in the
market, gradually accumulating wealth and eventually organizing trading caravans.
He actively participated in battles, including the Battle of Badr, where he shared a camel with
Hazrat Abu Bakr and Hazrat 'Umar due to the Muslims' poverty. 'Abd al-Rahman also fought in
the Battle of Uhud, where he sustained severe injuries that left him permanently lame. During
the last years of the Prophet Muhammad, he led a raid on Daumat al-Jandal.
'Abd al-Rahman enjoyed the trust and companionship of the Prophet. He supported the
Prophet during difficult times, such as when the Prophet's infant son Ibrahim passed away,
offering his shoulder for the Prophet to lean on. In the march against Tabuk, 'Abd al-Rahman led
the prayer in the Prophet's absence, and when the Prophet arrived, he humbly stepped aside
and let the Prophet lead.
After the death of the Prophet Muhammad, 'Abd al-Rahman played a significant role in the
decision to elect Hazrat Abu Bakr as the caliph. He later participated in the council that elected
Hazrat 'Uthman as the caliph. 'Abd al-Rahman passed away in 31 AH during the caliphate of
Hazrat 'Ali.
Overall, 'Abd al-Rahman ibn 'Awf was a loyal and trusted companion of the Prophet
Muhammad. He actively contributed to the early Islamic community, participated in battles,
engaged in trade, and played important roles in the selection of the caliphs.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Abu ‘Ubaydah ibn al-Jarrah (RA)

Abu 'Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah, a revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad, played a
significant role in the early years of Islam. He was an early convert to Islam in Makkah and
participated in the migration to Abyssinia to escape persecution. After the Hijra, he fought
alongside the Muslims in battles against the Quraysh.
During the Battle of Uhud, Abu 'Ubayda stood close to the Prophet Muhammad. When the
Prophet was struck on the cheek and his helmet straps lodged into the wound, Abu 'Ubayda
fearlessly used his teeth to extract the metal links, demonstrating his loyalty and bravery. He
was among the prominent Muslims who sought revenge for the harm inflicted upon the Muslim
community.
The Prophet Muhammad entrusted Abu 'Ubayda with important military responsibilities,
indicating his confidence in him. When the Muslims triumphantly entered Makkah, Abu 'Ubayda
was appointed to lead one of the four squadrons. In the final year of the Prophet's life, he was
ordered to lead expeditions to Dhu al-Qassa and al-Khabat. He also participated in the Syrian
expedition sent by the Prophet shortly before his passing.
Abu 'Ubayda's trustworthiness as a Muslim was evident when the Christian delegation from
Najran visited the Prophet in Madina. Impressed by what they witnessed, the Prophet sent Abu
'Ubayda with them as a judge to resolve disputes.
Following the Prophet Muhammad's death, Abu 'Ubayda played a crucial role in ensuring the
election of Hazrat Abu Bakr as the Caliph. Hazrat Abu Bakr recognized Abu 'Ubayda's worthiness
and considered him a suitable candidate for the caliphate. During Hazrat 'Umar's caliphate, Abu
'Ubayda was entrusted with leading the Muslim forces that conquered Palestine and Syria.
Abu 'Ubayda passed away in Syria in 18 AH, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty, and
exemplary leadership in the early Islamic community.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Talha ibn ‘Udaydullah (RA)

Talha ibn 'Ubaydullah (RA) was among the early converts to Islam in Makkah, accepting the faith
at the hands of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA). He endured persecution from the Quraysh and suffered a
notable incident where he and Hazrat Abu Bakr were tied up together on the ground.
He migrated to Madina, following the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and accompanied the
Prophet's wife, Hazrat Sawda (RA), as well as his unmarried daughters, Umm Kulthum (RA) and
Fatima (RA).
Before the Battle of Badr, the Prophet (SAW) sent Talha and Sa'id ibn Zayd (RA) to scout the
whereabouts of the Makkan caravan led by Abu Sufyan. Talha displayed his bravery during the
Battle of Uhud when he was wounded in the hand while protecting the Prophet's head from a
sword strike. However, the injury left his fingers permanently disabled. He remained by the
Prophet's side throughout the rest of the battle.
After the passing of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Talha initially supported Hazrat 'Ali (RA) for
the caliphate but eventually pledged allegiance to Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA). Later, he expressed
dissatisfaction with Hazrat 'Ali's (RA) delay in avenging the murderers of Hazrat 'Uthman (RA).
Together with Zubayr ibn al-'Awwam (RA), Talha raised an army. Unfortunately, in the Battle of
the Camel in 35 AH, Talha and Zubayr were killed during the clash between the two sides.
Talha ibn 'Ubaydullah (RA) demonstrated unwavering loyalty and valor in his support of Islam
and his commitment to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Zubayr ibn al-‘Awwam (RA)

Zubayr ibn al-'Awwam (RA), a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and nephew of Hazrat
Khadija (RA), was one of the early Muslims who accepted Islam after Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA),
possibly being the fourth or fifth person to do so. Due to the harsh treatment by the Quraysh,
he participated in the migration to Abyssinia for refuge. He later returned to Makkah with the
group that came back from Abyssinia.
Upon migrating to Madina, Zubayr played a prominent role in several significant events. He
actively participated in the battles of Badr and Uhud, as well as the expedition to Khaybar.
Zubayr was among the leaders of the Muslim forces during the conquest of Makkah.
After the passing of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Zubayr supported his cousin Hazrat 'Ali
(RA) in his claim for the caliphate, despite being the son-in-law of Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA).
However, when Hazrat 'Ali (RA) hesitated to promptly punish the murderers of Hazrat 'Uthman
(RA), Zubayr, along with Talha (RA), raised an army against him. Tragically, Zubayr was killed in
the Battle of the Camel.
Zubayr ibn al-'Awwam (RA) was known for his early conversion to Islam, his active participation
in battles, and his initial support for Hazrat 'Ali (RA) before the conflict arose. His marriage ties
and courageous actions during significant events mark his place in early Islamic history.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Sa’ad ibn Abi Waqqas (RA)

Sa'ad ibn Abi Waqqas (RA) was one of the early converts to Islam under the guidance of Hazrat
Abu Bakr (RA). He played a significant role in the early years of Islam and participated in
important events. During a time when Muslims used to pray outside Makka to avoid
persecution, Sa'ad (RA) engaged in a physical altercation with opponents, drawing the first
bloodshed in defense of Islam.
After the migration to Madina, Sa'ad (RA) took part in various expeditions and notably fought in
the Battle of Badr. He also played a defensive role at the Battle of Uhud, protecting the
wounded Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and receiving arrows from him as he recovered.
Following the death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Sa'ad (RA) provided valuable counsel to the
successive Caliphs. Under the caliphate of Hazrat 'Umar (RA), he led the Muslim forces in the
victorious Battle of al-Qadisiyya against the Persians. In the era of Hazrat 'Uthman (RA), he was
appointed as the governor of Kufa.
Sa'ad ibn Abi Waqqas (RA) passed away near Madina in either 50 AH/CE 670 or shortly after. His
contributions during the early Islamic period, his participation in battles, and his trusted counsel
to the caliphs demonstrate his significance and dedication to the faith.
The First Islamic Community: The Leading Companions of the Prophet (PBUH)

Sa’id ibn Zayd (RA)

Sa'id ibn Zayd (RA) was an early convert to Islam and held significant familial connections within
the Muslim community. He was married to the sister of his cousin, Hazrat 'Umar ibn al-Khattab
(RA), and both he and his wife were among the first Muslims. Notably, it was the recitation of
Sura Ta Ha in their home that influenced Hazrat 'Umar (RA) to embrace Islam, diverting him
from his initial intention to harm Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Following the migration to Madina, Sa'id (RA) participated in the Battle of Badr, demonstrating
his commitment to the faith and willingness to defend the Muslim community. He was also sent
by Prophet Muhammad (SAW), alongside Talha ibn 'Ubaydullah (RA), on a mission to gather
information about the Makkan caravan.
After the death of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), Sa'id (RA) held a significant position as a
commander of the armies that successfully conquered Palestine and Syria. His military prowess
and leadership contributed to the expansion of the Islamic empire. Sa'id ibn Zayd (RA) passed
away around 50 AH/CE 670.
It is worth mentioning that there were other notable companions of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)
who held close connections to him, both from Makka, Madina, and elsewhere. Some prominent
figures include Hazrat Bilal (RA), the freed slave who became the first muadhdhin (caller to
prayer) in Islam, Hazrat Salman (RA) who hailed from Persia and actively sought out the Prophet
(SAW), and Abu Hurayra, who had an extensive memory of the Prophet's sayings.