Muhammad a Prophet For all Humanity
6. The Path of the Prophet
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older and more experienced general in war than
Usamah be appointed to lead that army.
‘Umar, who had been with Usamah’s army,
returned to Madinah to convey their message to
Abu Bakr. The Caliph listened to what he had to say
about the first matter, and replied: “Even if I am the
only one remaining in Madinah after the departure
of the army, and I am left to be devoured by wild
beasts, still I cannot recall an army that the Prophet
himself has despatched.” He dismissed the matter
of Usamah’s youth and rank with these words:
“What, are the Muslims still proud and arrogant, as
in the time of ignorance?” Saying this, he himself
went on foot to send the army on its way under
Usamah’s command. With Usamah aloft on his
mount, the Caliph of the Muslims walked
alongside, speaking with him on matters
concerning the military campaign. He wanted to
put an end to the Muslims’ misgivings about
Usamah’s leadership, and this was the most
practical and effective way of doing it. Their
reservations vanished on seeing the Caliph walking
alongside Usamah’s mount.
