Main Topic
An overview of several minor military expeditions (Sariyya) during the Seerah of Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam, followed by profound spiritual reflections on the importance of good character (Akhlaq) and reflecting Allah's mercy when dealing with others.
Key Lessons
- Historical Expeditions: The speaker details various expeditions led by Sahaba such as Ukasha bin Mihsan, Muhammad bin Maslamah, Abu Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah, and Zaid bin Haritha (Radiyallahu anhum). These missions maintained deterrence and security after the Battle of Ahzab.
- Perspective on Loss and Martyrdom: In battle, Muslims win whether through victory or martyrdom (Shahadah). Temporary setbacks or martyrdom should never cause despondency in the Ummah.
- Integrity and Justice: When an error occurred during the expedition of Hasma, Nabi Sallallahu alayhi wasallam commanded the complete return of all captured goods and prisoners to the affected Muslim families.
- Definition of the Best Believer: Citing a Hadith narrated by Abdullah bin Umar Radiyallahu anhu, the Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam stated that the best believer is the one with the best character.
- Avoiding Self-Righteousness: When Allah grants a person guidance to practice Deen, one must remain humble and avoid looking down on those who have not yet reformed.
- Emulating Divine Mercy: Just as Allah conceals our sins and continues to feed and bless us despite our shortcomings, we should exercise mercy, leniency, and fair treatment toward employees and those at our mercy.
Quranic/Hadith References
- Hadith: Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wasallam was asked by a young Ansari, "Who is the best believer?" He replied: "Ahsanuhum akhlaqan" (The one with the best character).
- Reference to Jibreel Alayhis Salam frequently appearing in the human form of Dihya al-Kalbi Radiyallahu anhu.
- Reference to the narration of Mufti Shafiq Sahib regarding giving charity without judging whether the recipient is deserving, remembering how Allah bestows sustenance upon us without judging our worthiness.
Practical Advice
- Show kindness, soft-heartedness, and empathy in all daily interactions and business dealings.
- Avoid being harsh, vindictive, or oppressive when in a position of authority over employees or subordinates.
- Reflect on your own past sins before criticizing others who are currently struggling in their practice of Islam.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb