Stories Of the Companions

The Story Of Bilal Ibn Rabah (RA)

Hazrat Bilal (RA), aka (Hazrat) Bilal Habshi (on account of the name of his birthplace) and Bilal bin Rabah, was born in 6th century in what we now know as Ethiopia or Abyssinia. His biography is one of the most remarkable stories in the history of Islam and has been designated as an unparalleled example of determination and loyalty against a backdrop of torture and adversity.

Life as a Slave:

At that time, Arabia was steeped in the worst forms of corruption; whatever morals and codes of conduct had been laid down by previous religions had been forgotten and rejected. It was the era of master-slave relationships; as such, the life of Hazrat Bilal (RA) as we know it also begins in the folds of slavery. He was bought by Umayyah, a Quraish chief whose name if often repeated in the history of Islam for his cruelty and unceasing attempts to crush out the religion. Hazrat Bilal (RA) was appointed for taking care of the chief’s camels.

Umayyah was an extreme pagan, and so when Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) stepped forward with a unique concept of the Higher Power, he rejected him fiercely. He was at the head of the persecution campaign, and so when he heard Hazrat Bilal (RA) had converted, his anger was beyond measure.

From Torture to Freedom:

Some of the worst torture in the entire history of Islam was inflicted upon Hazrat Bilal (RA). He was tied up in chains and lasted for hours on end until he fell unconscious. He was dragged on hot burning sands. Heavy rocks were placed on his chest. But through all this, he repeated the Kalima of Islam incessantly. When the news reached Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA)’s ears, he immediately hastened to Umayyah and paid him a large amount to release Hazrat Bilal (RA). Thus, Hazrat Bilal (RA) was set free.

The First Muezzin:

Hazrat Bilal (RA) remained close to the Prophet (SAW) thereafter and was a staunch believer of all the principles and morals of Islam. On account of his melodious voice, Holy Prophet (SAW) appointed him as the first muezzin. The honorable event took place when the Quba Masjid was completed.

At the time of the famous conquest of Makkah, Holy Prophet (SAW) entered into the city with Hazrat Bilal (RA) and a group of other Sahaba. Upon reaching the Kaabah, he (SAW) himself destroyed the idols placed inside, and then instructed Hazrat Bilal (RA) to climb on to the roof of Kaabah and give the first ever Azaan in Makkah.

Some people expressed reservations due to him being black, but Quranic verses stating the importance of equality were revealed at the time to silence all doubts.

Late Life:

After Holy Prophet (SAW) no longer remained in this world, Hazrat Bilal (RA) served the first two Caliphs of Islam to the best of his capabilities. Towards the end of his life, he shifted to Damascus, where he lived till his death. He died when he was sixty years old.