Black History Month is a great opportunity to learn about the lives and achievements of Black Muslims, and the legacy they left behind. We may have heard of these individuals, but may not be aware of their lineage, or possess a detailed insight into their story.
This Black History Month, we are going to delve deeper and learn more about the early Black Muslims whom are part and parcel of our Islamic history.
The just king – Najashi
Najashi was an Abyssinian king. He was a Christian, and was known to be just and fair. He welcomed the Muslims, and gave them a place of refuge when they were being persecuted by the Quraysh, fleeing from Makkah. Upon their arrival to Abyssinia, the Quraysh sent gifts to try and convince the king to hand over the Muslims to them. However, Najashi, being the fair man he was, didn’t hand them over without hearing their side of the story first.
Najashi asked to learn more about Islam; he was delivered the message of Islam, of the oneness of Allah, and to renounce all idols and stones that were worshipped. He was told about the Prophet (saw) and his message. To sow division between Najashi and the Muslims, the Qurayshi delegation informed the king that Muslims did not worship Isa (as) and saw him as a slave. Najashi inquired what the Quran said about Isa (as) and in response, the beginning portion of Surah Maryam was recited.
Najashi was deeply touched by the recitation and tears were brought to his eyes. He refused to hand the Muslims over the Quraysh and declared that they could stay.
He said: “You’re welcome; Your Prophet is welcome. I admit that he is the Apostle about whom Jesus had given glad tidings. Live wherever you like in my country.” Then he turned to the Makkan delegates and said angrily: “I won’t hand them to you and I’ll defend them.”
The Prophet (saw) had sent King Najashi a letter, stating he was the Prophet of Allah, to which Najashi responded with gifts, and declaration of his faith in Islam and the true message. After the companions (ra) left Abyssinia for Madinah, Najashi passed away. Upon hearing news of his death, the Prophet (saw) prayed Janazah in his absence.
We can learn from Najashi’s life an example of being fair and just. Although he did not initially share the same beliefs as those who entered his kingdom, he was not quick to judge. He did not cast the Muslims out, and listen to what the Makkans said about them. Even he was alerted that the Muslims did not agree with his beliefs regarding Isa (as) he was still willing to understand them, which led to him accepting the true message.
He teaches us an example of living, interacting, working and being surrounded by people whom with our beliefs may not align. Differences among us, be it because of beliefs, customs of ways of living do not need be looked as difficult. Instead, it can be a means to learn more about ourselves, others, and to grow.
Mihja ibn Salih – The first matyr of Badr
Mihja’s lineage is said to be traced back to Yemen. He was described as having black skin. He was enslaved and suffered a great deal, but was later emancipated by Umar bin al Khattab.
The Prophet (saw) would sit in the company of Mihja and other followers who were poor or previously enslaved, which the Quraysh took as an opportunity to deride him. He was one of those who migrated from Makkah to Madinah for the sake of Allah, and was given the honour of not only being one of the 14 martyrs in the first expedition, the Battle of Badr, but of being the very first.
“The best of the blacks are three: Bilal, Luqman, and Mihja’, the freed slave of the Prophet, (saw).” (al-Hakim)
Mihja’s life teaches us that despite his humble origins, it did not affect how he was seen by the Prophet (saw). Sitting in the company of the Prophet (saw) was a true honour, to which Mihja was blessed. Not only was he able to sit in the Prophet (saw)’s company, he was given the highest honour – a martyr’s death in the battle of Badr. His sacrificed his life and previously his home for Allah and his belief in Islam.
‘Ammar ibn Yasir
‘Ammar ibn Yasir was one of the first few people to accept Islam. He was of Yemeni descent from his father, Yasir (ra) and came from a poor family. His mother, Sumayyah (ra) was an Abysinnian slave in the possession of Abu Hudhaifah ibn al-Mughirah. Both his parents (ra) were among the first to accept Islam and were amongst the first martyrs. The three of them suffered endlessly because of their belief in Islam. As they were tortured for their beliefs in the scorching desert valleys of Makkah, the Prophet (saw) gave them glad tidings – “Patience, O family of Yasir! Your meeting-place will be Paradise”. He also said specifically to Ammar – “O fire! Be cool and harmless for ‘Ammar in the same manner in which you became cool and harmless for Ibrahim (as).”
‘Ammar (ra) was one of the companions who emigrated to Abyssinia and later was one of the first companions to take part in the battle of Badr. He continued to take part in all the battles, even after the Prophet (saw)’s death. He always strived hard, and was involved in building the Prophet (saw)’s mosque. As others carried one brick, he carried two, to which the Prophet (saw) said: “They will get one reward whereas you (Ammar) will get two.” (Bukhari)
Under the caliphate of Umar (ra) he was made governor of Kufa in Iraq. He continued to live his life, spreading the message, and was martyred in battle at the age of ninety. He is one of the companions promised Paradise.
And others
There are many other early Muslims and companions whom have had a major influence on the history and growth of Islam and its teaching. Because of their bravery, character, steadfastness and determination, we can see the message spread far and wide, and can look back at their lives as inspiration
The just king teaches us to be non-judgmental, open and patient with those around us. Whether they are like-minded or different, the way we treat them should be with respect, and kindness. We aim to live in harmony, and alongside those even if our belief differs, and this good character is a living example of the teachings of our religion.
Mihja teaches us the lesson of status, of how in the sight of Allah lies true victory. Although he came from humble beginnings, he was valued by the Prophet and given a martyr’s death in the battle of Badr. The Prophet (saw) sat with him, regardless of where he came from or who he was. He was a believer, and a servant of Allah, and like us all is judged not on his wealth, or status but on his deeds.
‘Ammar Ibn Yasir teaches us the lesson of resilience and sacrifice. He grew up with hardship, lost both his parents at the hands of the torturers, yet remained steadfast and firm on his belief. He was taunted, tormented and still he persevered, and died in the path of Allah.
Each of these individuals vary in their unique traits and greatness of character, yet we can learn from them all. We can embody their strength, character and bravery and aspire to leave a legacy such as theirs.