It is commonly thought that in order to promote and expand human ideologies and civilizations, one needs to resort to military campaigns, war, and bloodshed. But does history provide an example of someone who, instead of ruling with a sword, ruled over hearts?
Adi bin Hatim was asked: How did you come to Islam and embrace the faith? Adi narrates the story as follows:
After my sister, Safana, was captured during a battle and freed in Medina through the guidance of Imam Ali (peace be upon him), the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) sent her to me in Syria with great generosity. One day, I asked Safana, “What is your opinion of the Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him)?”
Safana, praising and describing the noble qualities of the Prophet, said: “I believe it would be best for you to go to him as soon as possible, make a covenant with him, and pledge allegiance. For if he is indeed the Prophet of God, your belief in him will secure your Hereafter. And if he is claiming kingship or sovereignty, making an oath of allegiance to him will not diminish your dignity, and you will benefit from his power.”
I liked this advice and decided to go to Medina. When I reached the Prophet (peace be upon him), I greeted him.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked, “Who are you?”
I replied, “I am Adi bin Hatim.”
When the Prophet (peace be upon him) recognized me, he stood up and took me to his house. On the way, an elderly woman approached him, and they discussed something for a long time. I noticed that he stood there with her for quite a while, speaking to her with the utmost kindness. I thought to myself: “By God, such a man does not seek kingship.”
When we entered his house, I saw that he took off his leather mat, which was made of palm fibers, and spread it out for me to sit on. He said, “Sit here.” I hesitated, but he insisted. I sat down, thinking to myself: “By God, this is not the behavior of kings.”
Then he asked me, “Adi bin Hatim, were you not a follower of the Rakkusiya sect?”[1]
I replied, “Yes.”
He said, “Then why did you take a quarter of your people’s income when it was not permitted in your religion?”
From this hidden knowledge and the kindness I observed, I realized that he was indeed sent by God. I embraced Islam, recited the Shahada, and became a Muslim.
Indeed, the spread of Islam, unlike many other ideologies and civilizations, has never been based on war. According to historical accounts, the character, conduct, and moral excellence of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) were among the most significant factors in attracting people to the true religion of Islam.
(Adapted from the book History of Islam, by Hujjat al-Islam Sayyid Hashem Rasooli Mahallati, with slight modifications)
Footnote:
[1] (A sect between Christianity and the Sabeans, followers of John the Baptist (peace be upon him))