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Originally posted 2024-01-12 20:18:33.
It is not social status or rank or education that makes one person better than another; it is piety.
ilal ibn Rabah: A Hero of Faith
In the history of Islam, there are heroes of faith—men and women whose lives inspire us to become better people and better Muslims. Many of these heroes were Companions of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and they witnessed the growth of Islam from its earliest days. Many endured immense hardships and persecution for the sake of Islam, the message of Allah.
Their impeccable character and closeness to Allah and His Messenger drew many people to the faith. Among the greatest of these figures—humble, steadfast, and deeply committed—was Bilal ibn Rabah. Born in Makkah, this freed Ethiopian slave became inseparable from the Prophet and was honored as Islam’s first muezzin (caller to prayer).
The persecution Bilal endured for accepting Islam should make us reflect on our own efforts. We speak of calling others to Islam, yet sometimes we struggle even to rise for Fajr (the dawn prayer). His story teaches us unwavering belief in the Oneness of Allah and loyalty to His Messenger—lessons every Muslim can carry into daily life.
Ethiopian Origins
Bilal was the son of an Ethiopian slave named Rabah. Because of his dark skin, he was often referred to as Bilal al-Habashi (the Ethiopian). As a boy, he was sold into slavery and came under the ownership of Umayyah ibn Khalaf, a powerful Qurayshi noble and staunch idolater.
Umayyah believed in a twisted social theology: that the status of a person’s idol matched their rank—gold idols for nobles, wood or stone for slaves. While Bilal was physically enslaved, it was his master who was truly enslaved—chained to idolatry and arrogance.
When Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) began preaching Tawheed (the Oneness of Allah), those who embraced the message faced brutal oppression. But why is it that goodness threatens some people? Why did the idol-worshippers go to such lengths to crush Islam, even as its followers showed no violence or malice?
Bilal watched as more people embraced Islam and were tortured for it. He heard of Sumayyah and Yasir, the parents of `Ammar ibn Yasir, tortured to death by Abu Jahl—a tyrant infamous for his hatred of Islam.
Becoming Muslim
Inspired by the resilience of others, Bilal sought out the Prophet. The words of Muhammad (peace be upon him) penetrated his heart, and he accepted Islam without hesitation.
Unlike many who weigh pros and cons before committing to faith, Bilal didn’t hesitate. He found in Islam the peace and purpose his soul had longed for. But the price for this truth was steep.
When Umayyah heard of Bilal’s conversion, he responded with cruelty. Bilal was dragged across the scorching sands, tied by the neck and tormented by children. Still, his only response was to cry: “Ahad! Ahad!” (Allah is One).
The torture intensified. Bilal was laid out on burning sand, and massive stones were placed on his chest to crush the life out of him. Yet every time he was asked to renounce Islam, he replied with the same unwavering cry: “Ahad. Ahad.” Eventually, Umayyah gave up, leaving him close to death.
Set Free by Islam
Moved by his steadfastness, Abu Bakr As-Siddiq purchased Bilal and set him free. Islam had made Bilal not only free in body but in spirit.
For the rest of his life, Bilal devoted himself to the service of Islam and its Prophet. He became the Prophet’s spear-bearer, accompanying him in peace and war. This spear would later be used to point the direction of prayer.
Bilal was also given the great honor of being the first human being to call the Adhan (call to prayer), following a dream revealed to Abdullah ibn Zayd, confirmed by Umar ibn Al-Khattab, and approved by the Prophet (peace be upon him) as revelation from Allah.
Bilal’s voice—strong and sweet—echoed from the rooftops of Madinah. His Adhan stirred hearts and brought tears to eyes. He didn’t write books or give lectures; his life was a living testimony to Islam.
A Legacy Beyond Race and Rank
Bilal’s life is a powerful reminder of the Prophet’s teaching:
“Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.”
(Muslim)
It is not lineage, race, or social status that elevates a person in the sight of Allah—it is piety and sincerity. Bilal, a former slave from Ethiopia, became one of the most beloved people in the history of Islam because of his heart and his unwavering faith.
Bilal endured physical torment for Islam. He was humble and loyal, yet strong. When he called the faithful to prayer, his voice carried not just sound, but spirit—a sweetness that made believers weep with joy.
What Bilal Teaches Us Today
Bilal’s story is not just a tale from the past. It is the story of every sincere believer who strives to hold fast to faith despite challenges. His strength, humility, and deep love for Allah and His Prophet are qualities we should strive to emulate.
His voice was strong and sweet—just like the message of Islam. And like Islam, Bilal needed no validation from others. His life speaks for itself: a testimony that truth, when lived with conviction, can change the world.
May Allah be pleased with Bilal ibn Rabah, and may his story continue to awaken our hearts and strengthen our faith.
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Source: lastprophet.info.