Wednesday, Ramadan 12, 1446 AH (12/03/2025)
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all creation. May Allah extol the Messenger in the highest company of Angels and grant him peace; and likewise, his family, his Companions and all those who truly and sincerely follow him until the Day of Resurrection.
Respected brothers and sisters! In the early days of Islam, in the city of Makkah, there lived a man named Bilal Ibn Rabah. He was a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and is remembered for his unwavering faith, resilience, and profound patience.
Bilal, once a slave, faced immense persecution for embracing Islam. His owner, angered by his acceptance of the new faith, subjected him to severe torture. Under the scorching sun, Bilal endured the weight of heavy stones placed on his chest, all while proclaiming, “Ahad, Ahad” (One, One), affirming his belief in the oneness of Allah.
Despite the pain and suffering, Bilal remained steadfast and refused to renounce his faith. His unwavering dedication to Islam caught the attention of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and his companions.
Upon learning of Bilal’s plight, Abubakar (may Allah be pleased with him), a close friend and companion of the Prophet, purchased Bilal’s freedom, liberating him from the chains of slavery. Bilal’s heart, already devoted to Islam, now found freedom and solace in the company of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).
Bilal’s melodious voice and deep connection with the Prophet made him the chosen mu’azzin, the one who calls the Azan (call to prayer). His stirring call echoed through the streets of Madinah, symbolising the triumph of faith over oppression and injustice.
The Prophet held Bilal in high esteem for his unwavering patience and devotion. He once said:
“The most merciful of my Ummah to my Ummah is Abubakar, and the most truthful in his modesty is Uthman, and the man who has the most forbearance among the people is Bilal. Assuredly, he would come on the Day of Resurrection with very great deeds.”
Dear brothers and sisters! Bilal Ibn Rabah’s story serves as a powerful testament to the strength of faith and the virtue of patience. His enduring commitment to Islam, despite unimaginable trials, inspires believers to persevere through difficulties and remain steadfast in their devotion to Allah.
The legacy of Bilal continues to resonate, reminding us of the transformative power of patience, resilience, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
Ya Allah, on this day, beautify us with covering and chastity, cover us with the clothes of contentment and chastity, let us adhere to justice and fairness, and keep us safe from all that we fear, by your protection, or the protector of the frightened.
All perfect praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May the peace, blessings and salutations of Allah be upon our noble Messenger, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and upon his family, his Companions and his true followers.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of: Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah Mosque; and Late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene Mosque, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: [email protected]; or +2348038289761.
