=In the sixth year of Hijra, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, accompanied by approximately 1,400 companions, embarked on a peaceful journey to Mecca with the intention of performing Umrah. However, Quraysh barred them from entering, resulting in the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah—a ten-year truce that, though initially appearing unfavorable, marked a significant turning point in Islamic history. This treaty redefined Islam’s approach to spreading its message, emphasizing patience, diplomacy, and strategic foresight.
In Fiqh Al-Seerah, Dr. Muhammad Sa’id Ramadan Al-Bouti not only explains the treaty’s historical impact but also highlights several sharia rulings inferred from this event. These rulings serve as guiding principles in negotiation, strategic compromise, and preserving community welfare.
The Significance of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
Though the terms of the treaty seemed unjust at first glance, Allah revealed Surat Al-Fath (The Victory) to reframe it as a victory:
“Indeed, We have given you a clear victory.” (Surat Al-Fath, 1)
Dr. Al-Bouti explains that the treaty was groundbreaking as it granted the Muslims recognition as a distinct religious and political entity, setting a precedent for peace and diplomacy in the Arabian Peninsula. This victory demonstrated the wisdom of peaceful engagement over confrontation, and the treaty opened doors for Islam’s message to spread without conflict.
Why the Treaty Was a “Clear Victory”
Despite initial disappointment, the treaty brought numerous benefits:
- Official Recognition: The Quraysh’s willingness to negotiate acknowledged the Muslims as a legitimate force, marking a turning point in their status in Arabia.
- Spread of Islam: The truce allowed for peaceful outreach, leading to a substantial increase in conversions and support from other tribes.
- Strengthening Internal Unity: With peace secured, the Prophet ﷺ could address internal challenges, reinforcing the community’s stability in Medina.
Sharia Rulings Derived from the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
In Fiqh Al-Seerah, Dr. Al-Bouti identifies several sharia rulings from the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah that offer guidance on cooperation with non-Muslims, consultation (shura), and reverence for the Prophet ﷺ.
1. Seeking Assistance from Non-Muslims in Non-Combat Situations
A significant ruling derived from Hudaybiyyah is the permissibility of seeking assistance from non-Muslims in non-combat contexts. The Prophet ﷺ enlisted Bishr ibn Sufyan, a polytheist from Khuza’ah, as a scout to gather intelligence on Quraysh. Bishr was reliable, and there was no fear of betrayal.
This ruling shows that cooperation with non-Muslims is acceptable when the situation requires it and the individual is trustworthy. Assistance should, however, be limited to non-combat scenarios like intelligence gathering or borrowing resources. The Prophet ﷺ sought help only in non-combat roles, avoiding reliance on non-Muslims for warfare or direct combat.
- Application Today: Muslims may cooperate with non-Muslims in peaceful activities, provided there is trust and no risk of harm. However, it is generally recommended to avoid involving non-Muslims in matters of security or warfare.
2. The Advisory Nature of Consultation (Shura) in Islam
Another essential ruling from Hudaybiyyah concerns the nature of consultation (shura) in Islamic governance. The Prophet ﷺ frequently consulted his companions, showing that shura is recommended and beneficial in decision-making, but it is ultimately advisory, not binding.
Shura in Islam is meant to gather diverse perspectives and uncover insights that may not be immediately evident. However, the leader maintains discretion to make the final decision, especially if divine guidance points to a different path.
An example is seen at Hudaybiyyah when the Prophet ﷺ initially consulted Abu Bakr, who suggested they confront anyone who blocked their path to the Kaaba. Initially, the Prophet ﷺ agreed, but when his camel stopped, he perceived this as a sign from Allah to seek peace. He announced, “By the One in Whose hand my soul rests, if they demand a plan in which they honor the sanctities of Allah, I will grant it to them,” proceeding with negotiations without further consultation.
- Application Today: Shura is intended to provide insight and guidance for leaders, who then make decisions aligned with Islamic principles, as found in the Quran and Sunnah. Consultation is not a vote-based obligation but an advisory tool for informed decision-making.
3. Seeking Blessings (Tabarruk) from the Prophet’s ﷺ Actions and Belongings
The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah offers valuable insight into the companions’ respect and reverence for the Prophet ﷺ, which included the practice of tabarruk—seeking blessings from his actions, belongings, and even his physical presence. During the treaty negotiations, Urwah ibn Mas’ud, a delegate from Quraysh, observed the companions’ deep devotion to the Prophet ﷺ. He noted that they would carefully collect the water from his ablutions, sometimes vying for a small portion, and would reverently lower their voices in his presence. This behavior reflected their love, loyalty, and respect for him.
Historically, tabarruk was a practice among the Prophet’s ﷺ companions, who believed that blessings could be derived from his actions, personal items, and physical traces, such as his saliva or hair. This practice is well-documented in authentic hadiths, demonstrating that the companions sought blessings from these traces as a reflection of their profound spiritual connection to him.
However, Islamic scholarship offers varied perspectives on tabarruk. Many scholars agree that while the companions’ practice of seeking blessings directly from the Prophet ﷺ is valid, its continuation today warrants caution. After the Prophet’s ﷺ passing, some scholars advise against emphasizing physical tabarruk, focusing instead on following his teachings, Sunnah, and ethical conduct as the primary means of drawing blessings. They caution that overly focusing on physical tabarruk may inadvertently lead to misunderstandings or practices not fully supported by Islamic principles.
Thus, the balanced approach to tabarruk recognizes the spiritual benefits the companions experienced while also understanding that, for contemporary Muslims, adherence to the Prophet’s ﷺ Sunnah and ethical legacy remains the primary path to closeness with him.
- Key Principle: Seeking blessings through tabarruk should be rooted in respect and understanding, balanced with a commitment to following the Prophet’s ﷺ example and teachings.
The Treaty’s Long-Term Benefits for Islamic Expansion
The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah facilitated Islam’s spread across Arabia by allowing Muslims to engage peacefully with distant regions, establishing alliances and welcoming new communities. According to Dr. Al-Bouti, the peace period fostered by Hudaybiyyah enabled the message of Islam to reach a wider audience, leading to increased understanding and conversion.
Conclusion: Key Lessons from the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
The sharia rulings from Hudaybiyyah provide a lasting framework for handling complex situations in a balanced, ethical manner:
- Trust in Alliances: Cooperation with non-Muslims is permissible in peaceful scenarios if there is trust, illustrating the importance of careful assessment.
- Consultation’s Advisory Role: Shura serves to inform and guide the leader, who must make decisions aligned with the Quran and Sunnah.
- Respect and Reverence for the Prophet ﷺ: Seeking blessings from the Prophet’s ﷺ actions and belongings is a valid practice, reflecting the depth of love central to Islamic faith.
These rulings from Hudaybiyyah highlight the balance of pragmatic decision-making with deep spiritual devotion. By following these principles, Muslims today can uphold the values of peace, integrity, and unity, exemplifying the legacy of Hudaybiyyah in all areas of life.
