The Prophet Muhammad A simple Guide to his Life
Trusting Human Nature
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obdurate, and psychologically it was no longer
possible for them to remain insolent after such
noble behaviour on the part of the Prophet.
Ultimately, they all embraced the religion of the
Prophet. The very people who had been the greatest
of enemies now became his greatest companions
and supporters. This is the most unique event in
history, but this could come about only because the
Prophet dared to take the most unique risk.
Another noteworthy incident which took place after
the conquest of Makkah concerns the Hawazin
tribe. The Prophet and his companions, heading for
Taif by a route bordered by Hawazin settlements,
avoided encounters with the tribesmen and did not
so much as utter a word of criticism against them.
Yet, when they were half way along the floor of a
valley running through Hawazin territory, the
tribesmen rained down arrows upon them from the
hill-tops. At this sudden onslaught, the Muslims
were stricken with panic. Many precious lives were
lost. However, after an initial defeat, the Muslims
won the battle. About 6,000 people were taken
captive.
