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Zaid ibn Harithah (RA): The Beloved Companion and Servant of Islam

Redouan Zaynoune Redouan Zaynoune
Zaid ibn Harithah (RA): The Beloved Companion and Servant of Islam

In the vast history of Islam, the companions (Sahabah) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) hold a place of honor and reverence. Among them, one figure stands out for his unparalleled loyalty, unique relationship with the Prophet (PBUH), and his place in the Qur'an—Zaid ibn Harithah (RA). He was not just a companion but someone deeply loved and cherished by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His story reflects love, devotion, courage, and the principles of equality that Islam upholds.

Early Life and Captivity

Zaid ibn Harithah was born into the Banu Kalb tribe, a respected Arab tribe. As a young boy, he was captured during a raid and sold into slavery—a common practice in pre-Islamic Arabia. His life took a remarkable turn when he was bought by Hakim ibn Hizam, the nephew of Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA), the future wife of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Hakim later gave Zaid as a gift to Khadijah, and she, in her immense generosity, offered him to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as a servant. At the time, Muhammad (PBUH) had not yet been appointed as a Prophet. Little did Zaid know that his servitude would transform into a bond of deep love, respect, and familial affection.

Zaid’s Bond with the Prophet (PBUH)

Zaid’s life in Muhammad’s (PBUH) household was filled with kindness and care. Unlike the cruel treatment often associated with slavery, Muhammad (PBUH) treated Zaid with love and compassion, like his own family. This treatment left an indelible mark on Zaid’s heart.

Years later, Zaid’s father, Harithah, and uncle discovered his whereabouts and came to Mecca to ransom him. They offered Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a generous amount of money in exchange for Zaid’s freedom. However, Muhammad (PBUH) gave Zaid a choice:

“If you wish to go with your father, you are free to do so, and I will not take any ransom. But if you wish to stay with me, you may remain.”

Zaid astonished everyone by choosing to stay with Muhammad (PBUH). He said:

“I would not choose anyone over you. To me, you are a father and an uncle.”

Zaid’s words were a reflection of the deep love and trust he had developed for Muhammad (PBUH). This choice highlighted the Prophet’s unmatched kindness and fair treatment of people, which stood in stark contrast to the harsh norms of pre-Islamic Arabia.

Upon hearing Zaid’s decision, Muhammad (PBUH) took him to the Ka’bah, where he publicly declared Zaid as his adopted son, saying:

“He is my son; I inherit from him, and he inherits from me.”

This act brought immense honor to Zaid and further solidified his place in the household of the Prophet. From that moment on, Zaid was known as Zaid ibn Muhammad (Zaid, the son of Muhammad), a title that reflected his close relationship with the Prophet.

The Revelation and Zaid’s Unique Mention in the Qur’an

When Islam began to spread and Allah’s revelations were sent down, certain customs of the pre-Islamic society were abolished. One such custom was adoption in the sense of changing lineage. Allah revealed in Surah Al-Ahzab:

“Call them by their fathers; it is more just in the sight of Allah.” (Qur'an 33:5)

This revelation clarified that Zaid, despite his close relationship with Muhammad (PBUH), should be referred to by his biological lineage: Zaid ibn Harithah. While this change corrected societal norms, it did not diminish the love and bond between Zaid and the Prophet.

Zaid ibn Harithah holds the unique honor of being the only companion mentioned by name in the Qur’an. In Surah Al-Ahzab, Allah says:

“So when Zaid had no longer any need for her (Zaynab), We married her to you…” (Qur'an 33:37)

This verse references the marriage between the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Zaynab bint Jahsh (RA), which occurred after her divorce from Zaid. This event was a lesson in breaking societal taboos and upholding divine laws above cultural norms.

Zaid’s Leadership and Bravery

Zaid ibn Harithah’s loyalty to Islam and the Prophet (PBUH) manifested in his role as a trusted military commander. Despite not being from a noble Qurayshi lineage, Zaid was repeatedly entrusted with leadership roles, which speaks volumes about his character and competence.
  1. The Expedition of Hisma: Zaid successfully led an army to confront a group that had attacked the Muslims.
  2. The Battle of Mu’tah: In one of the most significant battles of his life, Zaid was appointed as the commander of the Muslim army by the Prophet (PBUH). The battle, fought against the Byzantine Empire, was a challenging test of courage and faith.
The Prophet (PBUH) instructed that if Zaid were to fall in battle, Ja’far ibn Abi Talib would take command, and if Ja’far were to fall, Abdullah ibn Rawahah would assume leadership. This battle became a moment of martyrdom for Zaid, who fought valiantly and was the first of the commanders to be martyred.

When news of Zaid’s martyrdom reached the Prophet (PBUH), he was deeply grieved. The Prophet personally comforted Zaid’s family, including his son Usamah ibn Zaid, and wept in remembrance of his beloved companion.

Zaid’s Legacy

Zaid ibn Harithah’s life is a profound example of how Islam shattered societal barriers. He went from being a slave to being loved by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and trusted with leadership in pivotal moments. His story emphasizes:
  • The Importance of Equality: Zaid’s status was not defined by his origins but by his faith, character, and service to Islam.
  • The Prophet’s Compassion: The love and respect Muhammad (PBUH) showed Zaid demonstrate the transformative power of kindness.
  • True Loyalty: Zaid’s unwavering loyalty to the Prophet (PBUH) serves as an inspiration for all believers.
Zaid ibn Harithah’s name will forever remain honored in the annals of Islamic history as the beloved companion who earned the love of Allah, the Prophet, and the Muslim ummah.

Conclusion

The story of Zaid ibn Harithah (RA) is not merely one of personal triumph but also a powerful lesson in faith, loyalty, and the breaking of societal chains. From slavery to leadership, his life was a testament to the principles of justice, equality, and love that Islam upholds. For modern Muslims, Zaid’s life continues to inspire—reminding us that true worth lies not in status or lineage, but in devotion to Allah and service to humanity.
Redouan Zaynoune
Redouan Zaynoune
Redouan Zaynoune is a Moroccan author who has written several Islamic books and workbooks. He is known for his contributions to making Islamic knowledge and practices more accessible to non-Arabic speakers and beginners. Some of his notable works include: Ahl Al-Quran Challenge, Convey from me, even if it is one verse, My Quran Tracing, my first steps into Al Quran. Redouan Zaynoune’s works cater to a wide range of audiences, from beginners to those seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of Islam. His books and workbooks aim to make Islamic knowledge and spiritual growth accessible and engaging for all.

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