Manqabat Hazrat Bilal Habshi (R.A)

Hazrat Bilal Habshi (رضی اللہ عنہ) – The First Mu’azzin of Islam

Hazrat Bilal Habshi (رضی اللہ عنہ), one of the most revered companions of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), holds a special place in Islamic history. Known as the first Mu’azzin (the caller to prayer) of Islam, his life reflects deep faith, sacrifice, and unwavering loyalty to the Prophet (ﷺ). Born into slavery, Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) rose to become a symbol of equality, devotion, and courage in the face of oppression.

Who Was Hazrat Bilal Habshi (رضی اللہ عنہ)?

Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) was born in Makkah to an Abyssinian (Ethiopian) family. He was a black slave owned by the cruel Umayyah ibn Khalaf. Despite his low social status, he embraced Islam during its early days when Muslims faced extreme persecution. His acceptance of Islam was a testament to his pure heart and belief in the message of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Torture and Perseverance in Makkah

When Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) accepted Islam, he faced brutal torture at the hands of his master. He was dragged through the scorching sands of the desert, whipped, and had heavy stones placed on his chest. Yet, he remained steadfast in his faith, repeatedly proclaiming “Ahad, Ahad” (One, One – referring to Allah), even under the harshest punishments.

His perseverance became a powerful symbol of faith and resilience. His tortures deeply moved the hearts of other Muslims, and his devotion was admired by the Prophet (ﷺ) himself.

Freedom by Hazrat Abu Bakr (رضی اللہ عنہ)

Witnessing his suffering, Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq (رضی اللہ عنہ), a close companion of the Prophet (ﷺ), purchased Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) from his master and set him free. This act of compassion and brotherhood became a turning point in Hazrat Bilal’s life and gave him the freedom to serve Islam wholeheartedly.

The First Mu’azzin of Islam

Due to his beautiful and powerful voice, Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) was honored by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) with the role of the first Mu’azzin. He was the first person to call the Adhan (Islamic call to prayer) in Madinah and at Masjid-e-Nabawi. His voice echoed through the hearts of the believers and became an eternal symbol of Islamic tradition.

Hazrat Bilal’s (رضی اللہ عنہ) Love for the Prophet (ﷺ)

Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) had immense love and respect for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). After the Prophet’s passing, he found it emotionally unbearable to stay in Madinah. He stopped calling the Adhan as he could not bear the thought of calling people to prayer in the absence of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Later, during a visit to Madinah at the request of the Prophet’s grandsons, he gave Adhan once again. The entire city of Madinah wept upon hearing his voice, reminiscing the days of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Legacy of Hazrat Bilal Habshi (رضی اللہ عنہ)

Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ) is remembered as:

• The first Mu’azzin of Islam
• A symbol of devotion, equality, and perseverance
• An example of brotherhood and loyalty in Islam

His legacy transcends time, reminding Muslims of the values of humility, sacrifice, and steadfastness. His life is an embodiment of how Islam elevates individuals based on faith and righteousness rather than race or social status.

Poetic Tributes to Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ)

Many poets and scholars have written heartfelt tributes to honor Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ). Their words reflect his powerful presence in Islamic history and the spiritual connection people feel with his sacrifice.

Hazrat Bilal Habshi (رضی اللہ عنہ) stands as a timeless figure of faith, courage, and equality in Islam. His journey from slavery to being the first Mu’azzin of Islam is a powerful reminder that Islam honors character and piety above all.

May Allah (سبحانہ و تعالیٰ) allow us to follow the footsteps of Hazrat Bilal (رضی اللہ عنہ), uphold the message of unity and justice, and keep the love of the Prophet (ﷺ) in our hearts. Ameen.

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