Memorable Events of the Month of Safar in Islamic History

Safar (Ṣafar) is the second month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. Although some people mistakenly consider this month to be unlucky, Islam does not support such beliefs. On the contrary, the month of Safar witnessed many significant events in Islamic history. These events serve as remarkable examples of faith, sacrifice, patience, and trust in Allah.

1. The Beginning of the Hijrah

On the 27th of Safar in the 14th year of Prophethood, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) left his home by Allah’s command and set out with Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) toward the Cave of Thawr. This marked the beginning of the historic Hijrah (migration) from Makkah to Madinah.

2. The Expedition of Al-Abwa (Waddan)

In Safar of the 2nd Hijri year, the Prophet (peace be upon him) personally led his first military expedition, known as the Expedition of Al-Abwa (or Waddan). Although no battle took place, a peace treaty was concluded with the Banu Damrah tribe, making it an important diplomatic achievement in the early Islamic state.

3. The Tragedy of Al-Raji'

In Safar of the 3rd Hijri year, members of two tribes requested the Prophet (peace be upon him) to send teachers to educate them about Islam. He appointed ten noble Companions for this mission. However, they were betrayed on their journey. Most of the Companions were martyred, while two were captured and sold in Makkah. This heartbreaking incident is remembered as the Tragedy of Al-Raji'.

4. The Conquest of Khaybar

In Safar of the 7th Hijri year, by the help of Allah, the Muslims achieved victory in the Battle of Khaybar. This conquest strengthened the security of the Muslim community and further established the Islamic state.

5. Companions Who Embraced Islam in Safar

Several distinguished Companions accepted Islam during the month of Safar, including:

• Amr ibn al-'As (may Allah be pleased with him)
• Khalid ibn al-Mughirah (may Allah be pleased with him)
• Jamrah ibn Nu'man (may Allah be pleased with him)
• Thumamah ibn Athal (may Allah be pleased with him)

Their acceptance of Islam greatly strengthened the Muslim Ummah.

6. The Blessed Marriage of Ali (RA) and Fatimah (RA)

In Safar of the 2nd Hijri year, the blessed marriage of Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him) and Fatimah al-Zahra (may Allah be pleased with her), the beloved daughter of the Prophet (peace be upon him), was solemnized. This remains one of the most memorable family events in Islamic history.

7. The Prophet’s Final Military Expedition

In Safar of the 11th Hijri year, the Prophet (peace be upon him) appointed Usamah ibn Zayd (may Allah be pleased with him) to lead the final military expedition against the Byzantine forces. Although the army's departure was delayed due to the Prophet’s illness, it remains the last military campaign prepared during his lifetime.

8. The Beginning of the Prophet’s Final Illness

On the 29th of Safar in the 11th Hijri year, after returning from attending a funeral at Jannat al-Baqi', the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) became ill. This illness marked the beginning of his final days before his passing.

9. Distinguished Figures Who Passed Away in Safar

Many renowned Companions and Islamic scholars passed away during the month of Safar, including:

• Abu Talhah al-Ansari (RA)
• Abd al-Rahman ibn Awf (RA)
• Imam al-Nasa'i (RA)
• Imam al-Nawawi (RA)
• Mujaddid Alf Thani, Shaykh Ahmad Sirhindi (RA)
• Shaykh al-Hind Mahmud Hasan (RA)

The Islamic Perspective on the Month of Safar

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

"There is no contagious disease that spreads independently, no evil omen, and no superstition regarding the month of Safar." — Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim

Therefore, believing that Safar is an unlucky month or avoiding marriage, business, or travel during this month has no basis in Islam. A Muslim should place complete trust in Allah and follow the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah.

Conclusion

The month of Safar holds a special place in Islamic history. It witnessed the beginning of the Hijrah, the sacrifices of the Companions, the victory at Khaybar, and the beginning of the Prophet’s final illness. These events remind Muslims of the values of faith, patience, sacrifice, and reliance upon Allah. Rather than following superstitions, we should learn from history and strengthen our commitment to the teachings of Islam. Read more.