The important moments from the time of the Prophet ﷺ continues to leave a legacy for all Muslims around the world. One of those moments is the Battle of Uhud.
The Battle of Uhud was the second act of the wars between Muslims and Makkan Quraish. Emboldened by the win from the Battle of Badr, the Muslims continued to fight for their beliefs despite the odds.
Though the win served to give them confidence, victory also tends to make people less alert and on guard. The soldiers at this battle are not immune from this temptation.
The temptation for riches, an impatient trait and a sense of rebelliousness from a strategic part of the army, the archers, cost the Muslims a huge loss during this battle.
Like success, loss leaves clues. And these clues have been taken seriously by Muslim for the following wars, teaching them important lessons that would have proven useful for their future endeavors.
1) Victory is Not Guaranteed for Muslims
Winning the ‘impossible war’ in Battle of Badr made some people think that they will be helped by Allah, and that victory is a favour guaranteed by Allah. But of course life does not work that way. Though it is Allah’s right to grant it, we have to set our own ways for victory. We have to earn that victory. Likewise, the glory of Islam in the future may be guaranteed. But we have to work as such so that it can be realized in this world.
2) It Teaches You How to Forbear Tragedies and Losses
In the face of defeat, tragedy and losses, you must establish the reason between cause and effect. Do not be overly emotional but rather learn from it to avoid future failure. Notice what you did right and wrong so you can always use it in the future occasions.
3) What To Do When We Suffer Defeat
Whenever we suffer defeat we are to blame ourselves, take account of our souls and repent for our sins. Realize our own mistakes and promise yourself that you will act in a different, better way so that you can get different, better results next time. Defeat is good time to let go of our ego because results do not discriminate.
4) Obedience to the Messenger is Very Important
Obedience to the Prophet ﷺ is such a significant matter for this belief, as exemplified in this part of Islamic history. Disobedience to the Prophet ﷺ carry a negative consequence, as the archers in Uhud have experienced themselves.
5) Disobedience and Greed is a reason for defeat
Along with disobedience, greed is also an enemy of victory. Victory requires steadfastness. But disobedience and greed will distract you from being steadfast. If you want to succeed in fighting for this religion, fight your disobedience and sense of greed.
6) Stay Kind to People
Rasulullah ﷺ beautiful manner was spoken about in Surat Al-Imran. “So by mercy from Allah you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you” (Al mran: 159). This leniency and softness motivated the people to fight harder and strive to obey him more, which proved fruitful for the struggle. When people make mistakes, it does not mean you can be rude to them. Stay kind to people, even after they did wrong. Give people another chance and do not let their mistake distract you from being unified.
7) It Teaches You to Have Hope
Defeat and victory is not permanent. The wheels will keep turning, if you keep them moving. After the Battle of Uhud, they worked hard for victory for the Battle of Trench. Come back stronger and make your defeat a useful lesson. Take advantage of your mistake and let it be the foundation of your advantages for the future, In sha Allah.
Studying Seerah is the number one way to increase our love for the Rasulullah ﷺ . There is no other way as effective and as powerful to increase our love for the Rasulullah ﷺ than by studying his life and times. Check out our online course, Al-Mustafa and prepare yourselves for an unmissable journey through the life, teachings and triumph of the Chosen One – Al Mustafa ﷺ and fall deeper and deeper in love with Rasulullah ﷺ .