First Islamic Battle Against Aggression:
Islam Allows for Defense, Not Occupation
May Allah grant us the strength to uphold justice and stand firm against oppression, just as the companions of the Prophet (PBUH) did at Badr. Ameen.
By Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
The Quran and Sunnah make it clear that warfare in Islam is only permissible in response to aggression, oppression, and persecution, to prevent a greater evil. Islam adheres to the principle of non-aggression, ensuring that no person, animal, or property is harmed unless it is necessary to secure justice or prevent injustice. The Quran mandates military intervention to assist the oppressed when necessary, and it strictly prohibits the targeting of civilians, the destruction of property, or any form of unwarranted violence.
> “Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:39)
The Battle of Badr:
The First Confrontation Against Oppression
In the dimensions of military history, the Battle of Badr was a relatively small engagement, yet in significance, it was a defining moment for Islam. Had the Muslims lost this battle, it could have been the end of Islam. Instead, their victory demonstrated the truth of Islam, strengthening their resolve and proving that divine support was with them.
The Quran describes Badr as the “Day of Criterion” (Yawm al-Furqan), where truth was distinguished from falsehood:
> “[Remember] when you said to the believers, ‘Is it not enough for you that your Lord should reinforce you with three thousand angels sent down?’” (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:124)
The first Islamic battle against aggression proved decisive, not only for the Muslims but for the entire history of humanity. It dealt a crippling blow to the Quraysh leadership, breaking their power structure. The Quran refers to this victory as the cutting off of the root of disbelief:
> “[It is] so that He may establish the truth and abolish falsehood, even if the criminals dislike it.” (Surah Al-Anfal 8:8)
Causes of the Battle
The hostility of the Quraysh towards Islam had been growing since the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) migration to Medina. They raided the outskirts of Medina, destroyed the crops and orchards of Muslims, and continuously plotted against the new Islamic state. The Muslims were left with no option but to defend themselves against the impending attack.
In 624 CE, Abu Jahl led a strong force of 1,000 Quraysh fighters, including 700 camels and 100 horses, intending to crush the Muslims. In response, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gathered 313 of his companions, with limited arms and only two horses, to meet them at Badr, a strategic water source between Mecca and Medina.
The Role of Imam Ali (AS) in Badr
Imam Ali (AS), the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), played a heroic role in the battle. As a young warrior, he stood firm against the experienced fighters of the Quraysh. Before the main battle commenced, the Quraysh challenged the Muslims to single combat. The Prophet (PBUH) sent forward three of his family members: Imam Ali (AS), Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib, and Ubaydah ibn Harith.
The three Quraysh warriors—Utbah, Shaybah, and Walid ibn Utbah—stood to face them. In swift and decisive moves, Imam Ali (AS) killed Walid, Hamza killed Shaybah, and Ubaydah was mortally wounded but survived long enough for Ali (AS) and Hamza to avenge him.
Imam Ali (AS) alone killed 36 enemy warriors, a feat that earned him the title of “Haider-e-Karrar” (The Indomitable Lion). The Prophet (PBUH) later said:
> “No sword but Zulfiqar, and no youth but Ali.”
The Outcome of Badr
The Muslims, despite being outnumbered, achieved a decisive victory. Seventy Quraysh warriors were killed, including Abu Jahl, and many others were taken as prisoners. The Prophet (PBUH) treated the prisoners with dignity, feeding them well and giving them opportunities to earn their freedom by teaching Muslims how to read and write.
This battle laid the foundation for the strength of the Muslim community. The victory at Badr strengthened the faith of Muslims, deterred their enemies, and demonstrated the divine support behind the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Islamic Perspective on Warfare
Islam does not permit war for territorial expansion or occupation. Jihad in Islam is strictly for the defense of faith, justice, and the oppressed. The Quran commands:
“And fight in the way of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:190)
“But if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (Surah Al-Anfal 8:61)
Imam Ali (AS), in his letter to Malik al-Ashtar, emphasized justice in warfare:
“Never fight those who do not attack you. Do not cut down trees, nor kill the elderly, women, or children. Never betray the trust placed in you.”
Lessons from Badr
1. Faith Over Numbers: The Muslims were vastly outnumbered but triumphed due to their unwavering faith.
2. Divine Support: The presence of angels, as promised by Allah, strengthened the Muslim ranks.
3. Justice in Warfare: Islam emphasizes ethical conduct in battle, treating even enemies with respect.
4. Imam Ali’s Bravery: His role at Badr set the precedent for his leadership in later battles, including Uhud, Khandaq, and Khyber.
5. The Power of Unity: The unity of the Muslim ranks ensured victory against a better-equipped enemy.
Conclusion
The Battle of Badr remains one of the most significant moments in Islamic history. It demonstrated that Islam stands for justice and will resist oppression, even against overwhelming odds. The Quranic principles of warfare and the noble example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Imam Ali (AS) continue to inspire Muslims today.
May Allah grant us the strength to uphold justice and stand firm against oppression, just as the companions of the Prophet (PBUH) did at Badr. Ameen
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