🗺️ Discovering ʿUbādah ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit: A Pillar in Islamic History 🌟
Comprehensive Definition
ʿUbādah ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit (عبادة بن الصامت): A renowned Companion of the Prophet Muhammad, who belonged to the Anṣār of al-Madīnah. He made significant contributions to the early Islamic community by playing a key role in the collection and preservation of the Qurʾān during the caliphate of Abū Bakr.
Etymology
- ʿUbādah: Derived from Arabic root (ع ب د), meaning ‘worship’ or ‘service to God’.
- ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit: Indicates his lineage, meaning ‘son of aṣ-Ṣāmit’, who was part of the Khazraj tribe in Madīnah.
Background
ʿUbādah ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit was an early convert to Islam and one of the leaders of the Anṣār, the residents of Madīnah who supported the Prophet Muhammad and the Muhājirūn (emigrants from Makkah). His commitment to Islam was proven through his participation in significant battles, councils, and his eventual selection by the first Caliph, Abū Bakr, to assist in compiling the Qur’anic revelations, ensuring their preservation and accuracy.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Across different Muslim cultures, ʿUbādah is revered for his piety, dedication, and service to the nascent Muslim community. While practices and traditions might vary, the respect towards him as a revered Sahābī (Companion) is universal.
Synonyms
- Companion of the Prophet
- Anṣār Leader
- Qur’anic Compiler
- Early Islamic Scholar
Antonyms
- None directly applicable, as terms relate to his unique historical role.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Anṣār (الأنصار): The ‘Helpers’, native inhabitants of Madīnah who supported Prophet Muhammad.
- Muhājirūn (المهاجرون): The ‘Emigrants’, early Muslims who migrated from Makkah to Madīnah.
- Caliph Abū Bakr (الخليفة أبو بكر): The first Caliph of Islam after the Prophet Muhammad.
- Qur’anic Compilation: The collection and documentation of Qur’anic revelations.
Exciting Facts
- ʿUbādah was among the first to pledge allegiance to the Prophet at al-ʿAqaba.
- He was deeply involved in the social, judicial, and military affairs of the early Muslim community.
- His devotion was such that he was entrusted with crucial knowledge such as portions of the Qur’an and Shari’ah rulings.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“ʿUbādah ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit was a pillar of wisdom and truth, embodying the virtues the Prophet himself cherished.” - Imam al-Bukhari
References
- Al-Tirmidhi, Jami` at-Tirmidhi.
- al-Bukhari, Sahih al-Bukhari.
- Al-Tabari, History of the Prophets and Kings.
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies and Inspiration
- “The Companions of the Prophet” by Abdul Wahid Hamid
- “Muhammad: Man and Prophet” by Adil Salahi
- “The History of Islam” by Akbar Shah Najeebabadi
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Ishaq
- Studies in various Hadith books (e.g., Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
Farewell Thought
May the profound legacy of ʿUbādah ibn aṣ-Ṣāmit inspire us to pursue knowledge and uphold virtues with unwavering dedication. Reflect on the legacy we can leave through our sincere efforts in every journey of life.
- Zayd al-Khattab
Published on October 12, 2023
