Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas
Definition and Etymology
Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (Arabic: سعد بن أبي وقاص, Turkish: Sad bin Ebu Vakkas) (d. ca. 671 CE) was an early convert to Islam and one of the ten prominent Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), to whom he is believed to have promised paradise (Ashara Mubasharah).
Early Life and Conversion
Sa’d was among the earliest individuals to embrace Islam, doing so at roughly seventeen years of age. He was born in Mecca to the Zuhra tribe, related to the Prophet Muhammad through his mother.
Role in Early Islamic Community
Sa’d is distinguished for his piety and significant contributions to the early Islamic community. He was deeply trusted by the Prophet and played a critical role among the Sahabah, the community of the Prophet’s companions.
Military Achievements
Sa’d participated in all of the major battles during the Prophet’s lifetime, including the notable Battle of Badr and the Battle of Uhud. His military prowess is especially remembered for the decisive 636 CE Battle of Qadisiyah, where he, under the caliph Umar’s command, led Muslim forces to victory over the Persian Sasanian Empire.
Political Involvement
Proving his political wisdom and leadership, Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second caliph, appointed Sa’d as one of six members entrusted with the task of electing the next caliph after him in 644 CE. Despite his eminent status, Sa’d did not contest for the caliphate himself.
Role During the First Fitna
During the strife known as the First Fitna (Islamic civil war) between the fourth caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib and Muawiyah, Sa’d chose a position of neutrality. He abstained, believing human capacity insufficient to accurately judge another’s faith or actions within the tense internecine conflict of this period.
Books for Further Studies
- “Companions of the Prophet” by Abdul Wahid Hamid
- “The Life of the Prophet Muhammad” by Ibn Kathir
- “Biographies of the Rightly-Guided Caliphs” by El-Sayed Ramadan al-Buti
Takeaways
Sa’d exemplifies the early fidelity and valor within the nascent Muslim community. His neutrality during internal conflicts reflects a wisdom in understanding the human limitations in matters of faith and judgment.
Conclusion
Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas remains a highly respected figure in Islamic history, remembered not only for his military successes and contributions to the establishment of Islam but also for his devout and judicious character which provided a moral beacon during tumultuous periods.
