Aws, al-
Definition
The Aws, along with the Khazraj, were prominent tribes in pre-Islamic Yathrib (now Medina) who invited the Prophet Muhammad to resolve ongoing feuds between them. These tribes, collectively known as the Ansar (helpers), alongside the Muhajirun (emigrants from Mecca), were instrumental in establishing the first Islamic community. Their hospitality and early support for the Prophet and Islam are highly regarded in Islamic history.
Etymology
The term ‘Aws’ is derived from Arabic (الأوس), which means ’the generous’ or ’the giver’. The name hence reflects the tribe’s generous nature, which was epitomized in their support and aid to the Prophet and early Muslims.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: الأوس (al-Aws)
- Turkish: Evs
Historical Context
Pre-Islamic Period
Before the arrival of Prophet Muhammad, Yathrib was a city marked by tribal conflicts, mainly between the Aws and the Khazraj. The Aws were integral in shaping the social and political landscape of the city. Historically, these tribes were located in and around present-day Medina and were involved in agriculture and trade.
Invitation to Prophet Muhammad
In 622 CE, both the Aws and Khazraj extended an invitation to Prophet Muhammad to seek his mediation to bring peace to their warring factions. This significant event led to the Hijrah (migration) of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Yathrib, setting the stage for the subsequent Islamic state.
Role in Early Islam
After the migration and establishment of Muslims in Medina, the city became a paradigm for Islamic civic and religious life. The Ansar played a crucial role in integrating the emigrants from Mecca and maintaining the communal harmony that characterized early Islamic society. This generosity and support significantly boosted the efforts of Muhammad, setting an exemplary model for future Islamic communities.
Industrial and Cultural Contributions
The arrival of Islam and the hijrah further augmented the socio-political framework of the tribes. The unified Umah (community) leveraging Islamic principles led to significant advancements in trade, agricultural development, and societal welfare. The inclusivity promoted by the union of both Muhajirin and Ansar also proliferated a culture of knowledge sharing, amplifying Medina’s role as an epicenter of Islamic learning and jurisprudence.
Further Readings and References
- Madelung, Wilferd. “The Succession to Muhammad: A Study of the Early Caliphate.” Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1997.
- Donner, Fred M. “Narratives of Islamic Origins: The Beginnings of Islamic Historical Writing.” Princeton: Darwin Press, 1998.
- Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri. “Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar): Biography of the Noble Prophet.” Riyadh: Maktaba Dar-us-Salam, 2002.
- Shaban, M. A. “Islamic History: AD 600 -750.” Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1971.
Takeaways
- Aws and Khazraj’s role as Ansar reflects the importance of unity and cooperation in overcoming internal strife and building successful communities.
- Establishment of Medina serves as a model for Islamic civic and religious life, emphasizing the role of collective effort and resolve.
- Hijrah’s significance marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar and highlights the transformation brought by migration and integration of diverse groups.
Conclusion
The al-Aws tribe’s pivotal role in the early Islamic community notably exemplifies themes of unity, cooperation, and support for new ideas and leadership. Their historical significance lies not only in their hospitality and involvement in the foundational period of Islam but also in their continued legacy within Islamic civilization.
