Light of the Noble Prophetic Hijra/Migration

As we commemorate, in few days, the noble Hijra (migration) of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Mecca to Madina, it is essential to reflect on some of the profound lessons it imparts. The Hijra, in its broadest religious sense, transcends mere geographical relocation. It encompasses abandoning sins and transgressions, turning towards Allah Almighty, and finding solace in His proximity. There is no greater pursuit than striving to attain Allah’s pleasure and seeking His eternal, unending reward.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this concept when he said, “The true emigrant is the one who abandons what Allah has forbidden” (Bukhari). Those who forsake their beloved sins for the sake of Allah will be compensated with something far better.

The Hijra was no easy journey. The Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions were pursued by the entirety of Quraysh. Without Allah’s grace and mercy, their migration would not have succeeded, nor would they have been able to establish the great Islamic state. Their hearts were solely attached to Allah, demonstrating that reliance on Him is the key to salvation. Allah says:

“وَالَّذِينَ هَاجَرُوا فِي اللَّهِ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا ظُلِمُوا لَنُبَوِّئَنَّهُمْ فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَلَأَجْرُ الْآخِرَةِ أَكْبَرُ لَوْ كَانُوا يَعْلَمُونَ * الَّذِينَ صَبَرُوا وَعَلَى رَبِّهِمْ يَتَوَكَّلُونَ”

“And those who emigrated for [the cause of] Allah after they had been wronged – We will surely settle them in this world in a good place; but the reward of the Hereafter is greater, if only they could know. [They are] those who endured patiently and upon their Lord relied.” (Quran 16:41-42)

The sacrifice of the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during the Hijra is a shining example of their dedication and faith. They sacrificed everything they owned and loved for the sake of preserving their deen and establishing the free Islamic state. This profound act of sacrifice and their willingness to endure hardships for the sake of Allah is a lesson for all Muslims. It teaches us the importance of prioritizing our faith and the collective good of the Muslim community over personal comforts and material possessions.

There is no doubt that taking the necessary means, alongside reliance on Allah, is among the most crucial factors for success and achieving one’s goals. During his migration, the Prophet (peace be upon him) utilized all possible means, teaching Muslims the importance of taking practical steps and avoiding complacency.

As we remember this momentous event, let us internalize its lessons and strive to embody its spirit. May Allah grant us the strength to abandon our sins, to rely upon Him sincerely, and to actively take the steps necessary for our success, both in this world and the Hereafter.

May the blessings of the Hijra illuminate our paths and hearts.

Your brother,

Abdullatif Bakbak

MAC President-Executive