Death of Amr ibn al-As
On the 30th of Ramadan in 43 AH (664 CE), the renowned companion of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Amr ibn al-As (may Allah be pleased with him), passed away at the age of 100. A key figure in early Islamic history, Amr played a pivotal role in the Muslim conquests of Egypt. Known for his political acumen and military strategy, he was instrumental in spreading Islam and establishing its rule in newly conquered lands. His leadership in Egypt laid the foundation for a flourishing Islamic civilization in the region.
Death of Imam Al-Bukhari
On the 30th of Ramadan, 256 AH (August 31, 869 CE), Imam Muhammad ibn Ismail Al-Bukhari, the prince of believers in Hadith, passed away. Widely regarded as the greatest Hadith scholar, Imam Al-Bukhari authored the highly esteemed collection "Sahih Al-Bukhari", recognized as the most authentic book after the Quran. His contributions, including works like "Al-Adab Al-Mufrad" and "Al-Tarikh Al-Kabir", have profoundly influenced Islamic jurisprudence and preserved the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Birth of Imam Ibn Hazm
On the 30th of Ramadan, 384 AH (November 7, 994 CE), the illustrious scholar Ibn Hazm was born. Known for his expertise in jurisprudence, comparative religion, history, and literature, Ibn Hazm became one of the most prominent intellectual figures of the fifth century AH. His works, such as "Al-Mahalli" and "Al-Fasl fi Al-Milal wa Al-Ahawa' wa Al-Nahl", showcase his deep knowledge and analytical approach, leaving a lasting legacy in Islamic scholarship and thought.
Historic Events of Ramadan's 29th Day: Triumphs and Turning Points
Battle of Khazindar (Marj al-Saffar)
On the 29th of Ramadan, 699 AH (June 17, 1300 CE), the Battle of Khazindar, also referred to as Marj al-Saffar, marked a significant triumph for the Mamluks over the Mongols. Under the leadership of Ahmad al-Nasir ibn Qalawun, the Mamluks successfully repelled the Mongol forces, who had been a persistent threat to the stability of the Islamic world. This battle took place southeast of Damascus, a strategically vital region in the Levant. Despite the Mongols' fearsome reputation and previous victories in the region, the Mamluks' disciplined military strategy and effective use of their cavalry enabled them to secure a decisive victory.
The outcome of the battle reaffirmed the Mamluks' supremacy in the region and was pivotal in halting the Mongols' westward expansion. It also demonstrated the resilience and tactical brilliance of the Mamluks, whose forces continued to safeguard the Islamic world during this tumultuous period. The victory at Khazindar is remembered as a testament to the Mamluks' determination to protect their territories and preserve their sovereignty.
Battle of Al-Buwaib
In 13 AH (November 26, 634 CE), on the 29th of Ramadan, the Battle of Al-Buwaib represented a critical turning point in the early Islamic conquests. After the Muslim forces' devastating defeat in the Battle of the Bridge, this encounter served as an opportunity to reclaim their honor. Under the leadership of Al-Muthanna ibn Haritha, the Muslims confronted the powerful Persian army along the banks of the Euphrates River in Iraq.
The battle was fiercely contested, but through superior tactics and the unwavering spirit of the Muslim warriors, Al-Muthanna led his forces to a resounding victory. This triumph restored morale and marked the resurgence of the Muslim army in their campaigns against the Sasanian Empire. Moreover, it paved the way for further Islamic expansion into Persia, ultimately solidifying the Muslims' control over the region. The Battle of Al-Buwaib exemplifies the courage, resilience, and leadership of the early Muslim community during one of its most challenging periods.
American and Israeli reports revealed the increasing pressures exerted by Christians in the United States to support the complete control of the Israeli occupation over the West Bank.
The New York Times reported that evangelicals who voted for Donald Trump during his presidency intensified their efforts to persuade him to allow "Israel" to exercise sovereignty over the West Bank, based on what they believe to be a "divine covenant" with the Jews. The newspaper added that prominent Christian figures, such as Ralph Reed, Tony Perkins, and Mario Bramnick, recently visited Jerusalem to express their public support for the occupation's control over the West Bank. Moreover, Trump's evangelical allies launched extensive lobbying campaigns, which included submitting petitions to the White House and rallying support within Congress.
The organization "American Christian Leaders for Israel" (ACLI) issued a statement directed at Trump during the National Religious Broadcasters Conference in Dallas, Texas. The statement affirmed that the Jewish people have a continuous historical and scriptural connection to Judea and Samaria. The statement, signed by about 200 senior American Christian leaders, added that the Jewish presence in the West Bank has brought tangible blessings to the region, ignoring the crimes and violations committed by the occupation against the Palestinians.
Read also: The West Bank: The Dispersive Annexation of Sovereignty
Friends of Zion" ... the evangelical arm to support the occupation.
In this context, the organization "Friends of Zion," which is an influential group of American Christians founded by evangelical journalist Mike Evans, plays a pivotal role in promoting Christian support for Zionism. The organization is based in Jerusalem and promotes Christian Zionism through a museum that showcases stories of non-Jewish figures who supported "Israel." It receives official support from prominent "Israeli" politicians, including prime ministers, and its membership is expected to reach around 30 million by 2025, according to a report by Al Jazeera Net.
In statements reflecting the extent of blind support for the Zionist project, Pastor Mario Bramanik, president of the "Latin Alliance for Israel," said, "I literally feel that God is giving 'Israel' a blank check."
This statement came during his recent visit to Jerusalem, as part of a prominent evangelical delegation that publicly calls for the takeover of the West Bank, which they refer to as "Judea and Samaria.
The New York Times noted that evangelical groups see the imposition of "Israeli" sovereignty over the West Bank as a reinforcement of the fulfillment of biblical promises that, according to their beliefs, encompass the end of the world and the second coming of Christ.
In the same context, Terry Copeland Pearsons, the president of Texas Bible College, urged the Trump administration to remove all obstacles to Israel's complete control over the West Bank during the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Texas.
Just before the American Christian Leaders for Israel officially announced their position, Republican Representative Claudia Tenney, along with five other members of the "Friends of Judea and Samaria" caucus in Congress, sent a message to Trump urging him to recognize Israel's right to assert its sovereignty over the region. She considered this part of defending the Judeo-Christian heritage upon which America was built.
A report by the Hebrew newspaper "Yedioth Ahronoth" stated that hundreds of American Christian leaders directly urged Trump to acknowledge the rights of Jews in the West Bank.
The newspaper quoted David Parsons, Vice President of the "International Christian Embassy" in Jerusalem, saying: "It is time for a new approach, where we, as Christians, join the people of 'Israel' and encourage them to reclaim their sovereignty and rights over Judea and Samaria.
See : How does the occupation accelerate the annexation of the West Bank?
Divergence within the entity regarding evangelical support.
On his part, Meir Ouziel wrote in "Yedioth Ahronoth," commenting: How should we, as "Israelis," respond to this explicit evangelical support? He pointed out that there are "Israelis" who fear the repercussions of annexing the West Bank, while settlers welcome it.
He added: We must get used to this love towards us and realize that there are hundreds of millions around the world who support the success of the Zionist project in our homeland.
This increasing American Christian support comes at a time when the chances of establishing a Palestinian state are diminishing, especially after the Zionist aggression on Gaza on October 7, 2023, and the rising tension in the West Bank.
Thus, American evangelicals continue to play their role as one of the most radical supporters of "Israeli" policies, surpassing even some of the Zionist political circles themselves.
Read also : 7 steps taken by the occupation to annex the West Bank
_______________________________
Thaqif Accepts Islam
On the 28th of Ramadan in 9 AH (January 1, 631 CE), the Thaqif tribe of Ta'if accepted Islam, a significant milestone in the unification of the Arabian Peninsula under monotheism. This event followed years of resistance from the Thaqif, who were among the most prominent tribes in Arabia.
Acknowledging the growing influence of Islam, the Thaqif sent a delegation of six leaders to Medina to negotiate their conversion. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warmly received them, providing them with an opportunity to observe the Muslim way of life, including prayers and Quranic recitation.
The delegation initially sought exemptions from some obligations, notably the destruction of their idol, Al-Lat. However, the Prophet firmly stood by Islam's monotheistic principles, rejecting any compromises. Through his wisdom and persistence, the delegation eventually embraced Islam. Among them, Uthman ibn Abi al-As displayed remarkable enthusiasm for learning about the religion and was later appointed as the imam for his people.
After their return to Ta'if, the Thaqif tribe demolished Al-Lat, symbolizing their complete submission to Islam. This act marked the end of idolatry in their region and further strengthened the unity of the Muslim community.
This event demonstrated the Prophet's ability to guide even the staunchest of opponents toward Islam, fostering unity and consolidating the Islamic faith across the Arabian Peninsula.
Muslim Victory in the Battle of Shadhuna:
On the 28th of Ramadan, 92 AH (July 18, 711 CE), the Battle of Shadhuna, also known as the Battle of the Valley of Lakka, marked a key moment in Islamic history. The battle was part of the Muslim campaign to expand into the Iberian Peninsula under the leadership of Tariq ibn Ziyad.
Tariq ibn Ziyad commanded the Muslim forces, who were strategically astute but significantly outnumbered. Opposing them was King Roderic, leading the Visigothic army. The battle showcased the determination and tactical brilliance of Tariq and his soldiers.
Despite the odds, the Muslims achieved a decisive victory. This triumph paved the way for Islam to enter Spain, initiating a new era of cultural and intellectual flourishing under the Muslim state of Al-Andalus, which lasted for eight centuries.
The victory at Shadhuna not only demonstrated the military strength of the Muslim forces but also symbolized the beginning of an Islamic influence that shaped Spain's history and contributed greatly to the progress of European civilization.
Mandating Zakat al-Fitr
On this day in the blessed month of Ramadan, Zakat al-Fitr (also known as "Sadaqat al-Fitr") was mandated in Medina. Its obligation is supported by the verse: “Indeed, he has succeeded who purifies himself.” (Surah Al-A'la, 87:14). Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prescribed Zakat al-Fitr as one sa' of dates or barley for every Muslim, male or female, free or enslaved. Zakat al-Fitr serves as a purification for the fasting person and a means to cleanse their fast.
Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree)
The night of the twenty-seventh of Ramadan is widely believed by scholars to be Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Decree). It is distinguished by its immense virtue, as the Holy Qur'an was sent down from the Preserved Tablet to the lowest heaven on this night, placed in the House of Honor. Gabriel (peace be upon him) then revealed it gradually to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) according to circumstances and events.
The name Laylat al-Qadr signifies its greatness and the divine decrees ordained during this night for the coming year. Its rewards surpass those of a thousand months, making it a highly blessed and spiritually significant night in Islam.
Death of Al-Mansur, the Umayyad Caliph in Andalusia
Al-Hajib Al-Mansur Muhammad ibn Abdullah ibn Abi Amer Al-Mu'afari, commonly known as Al-Mansur, was born in Al-Andalus and rose to prominence during the Umayyad Caliphate in Spain. His intelligence, ambition, and administrative skills earned him the favor of Caliph Al-Hakam II, under whom he began his career. Al-Mansur quickly ascended the ranks, becoming a trusted advisor and eventually the de facto ruler of Al-Andalus.
Al-Mansur's reign, which lasted from 367 AH to 392 AH (977–1002 CE), was marked by significant military and administrative achievements. Although he was not a caliph in the traditional sense, as he ruled on behalf of the young Caliph Hisham II, Al-Mansur wielded absolute power and effectively controlled the state. His leadership brought stability and prosperity to Al-Andalus during a time of political and social challenges.
Al-Mansur is best remembered for his military campaigns, which expanded the borders of the Umayyad Caliphate and secured its dominance in the Iberian Peninsula. He led numerous successful expeditions against Christian kingdoms in northern Spain, including the famous sacking of Santiago de Compostela in 997 CE. These victories solidified his reputation as a formidable military leader and protector of the Islamic state.
On the 27th of Ramadan, 392 AH (1002 CE), Al-Mansur passed away at the age of sixty-five. His death marked the end of an era of strong leadership in Al-Andalus. Despite his controversial methods of consolidating power, Al-Mansur left a lasting legacy as a skilled administrator and military strategist. His reign is often regarded as a golden period in the history of Islamic Spain, characterized by cultural flourishing and political stability.
Al-Mansur's contributions to the Umayyad Caliphate in Al-Andalus remain a significant chapter in Islamic history, reflecting his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and achieve remarkable feats during his tenure.
Muslim conquest of the fortified fortress of Folk in Slovakia
On the 27th of Ramadan in 1093 AH, corresponding to September 29, 1682 CE, the Ottoman commander, Uzan Ibrahim Pasha, seized the fortified fortress of Folk in Slovakia, along with 28 other fortresses in the region, achieving full control over Slovakia.
Victory of Muslims over the German army
On the 27th of Ramadan in 1107 AH, corresponding to April 20, 1696 CE, the Ottoman Sultan launched his second campaign into Europe, which led to fierce battles with the German army resulting in the Ottomans' victory. This campaign lasted for 6 months until October 25, 1696 CE.
Ramadan 26, 9 AH
Return of the Prophet from the Battle of Tabuk:
On this day in the blessed month of Ramadan in the year 9 AH, January 17, 631 CE, the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, returned from the Battle of Tabuk, from which some companions had stayed behind. When the Prophet returned, he entered the mosque, prayed, and accepted apologies from those who offered them. This was also when the incident of the boycott of Ka'ab ibn Malik and his two companions occurred.
First Attempt by Al-Samh ibn Malik al-Khulani to Invade France:
After the Muslim Arabs successfully conquered Spain in 92 AH and established Umayyad rule, they sought to expand further into Europe. In 100 AH (718 CE), Al-Samh ibn Malik al-Khulani, the governor of Al-Andalus, led the first major attempt to penetrate into France. His forces advanced into southern France and laid siege to the city of Toulouse, a key stronghold in the region.
Despite initial successes, the campaign faced a significant setback. The local forces, led by Duke Odo of Aquitaine, launched a surprise counterattack on the besieging Muslim army. This resulted in a decisive defeat for the Islamic forces, and Al-Samh ibn Malik al-Khulani was killed in the battle. Following his death, the retreat was organized and led by Abdur Rahman ibn Abdullah al-Ghafqi, who later became a prominent leader in the Islamic expansion into Europe.
This defeat marked the beginning of a series of attempts by the Umayyads to expand their influence into France, culminating in later battles such as the famous Battle of Tours in 732 CE. The campaign highlighted the challenges of extending control beyond the Pyrenees and into the heart of Europe.
Surrender of Belgrade after Ottoman Siege:
On the 25th of Ramadan, 927 AH (August 28, 1521 CE), the city of Belgrade surrendered to the Ottoman Empire after a decisive siege. This marked a significant moment in Ottoman history, as Belgrade was a strategic stronghold in the Balkans, controlling access to Central Europe and the Danube River.
The siege was led by Minister Pir Muhammad Pasha, with the direct support of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, one of the most renowned Ottoman rulers. The Ottoman forces employed advanced siege tactics and artillery, which overwhelmed the city's defenses. Belgrade, then under Hungarian control, had long been a target for the Ottomans due to its strategic importance.
After the city's surrender, the Ottomans solidified their control over the region, and Belgrade became a vital administrative and military center for the empire. To mark this victory, the first Friday prayer was held in the city, symbolizing its integration into the Islamic world and Ottoman governance.
This conquest was part of Sultan Suleiman's broader campaign to expand Ottoman influence in Europe, and it paved the way for further advances into Central Europe in the years to come. The fall of Belgrade demonstrated the strength and ambition of the Ottoman Empire during its peak under Suleiman's rule.
Destruction of all Idols in Arab Peninsula
On the 25th of Ramadan in the year 8 AH (January 15, 630 AD), following the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) took significant steps to eliminate the remnants of idolatry in the Arabian Peninsula. He dispatched three of his trusted companions to destroy the major idols worshipped by various tribes.
Each of these missions was successfully accomplished, signifying the triumph of Islam over polytheism and reinforcing the principles of monotheism in the region. These actions were instrumental in unifying the Arabian Peninsula under the banner of Islam.
The Battle of Malazgirt
The Battle of Malazgirt, also known as the Battle of Manzikert, occurred on the 25th of Ramadan, 463 AH, (August 26, 1071 CE). It was a pivotal confrontation between the Seljuk Empire, led by Sultan Alp Arslan, and the Byzantine Empire under Emperor Romanus IV Diogenes. This battle took place near the town of Manzikert (modern-day Malazgirt, Turkey) in western Asia Minor, close to Ahlat.
Alp Arslan, a skilled military leader and devout Muslim, led the Seljuk forces in this historic encounter. The Seljuk army, though smaller in size compared to the Byzantine forces, was highly mobile and strategically adept. The Byzantine army, on the other hand, was a mix of professional soldiers, conscripts, and unreliable mercenaries, which weakened its cohesion.
The battle unfolded as Alp Arslan employed clever tactics, including feigned retreats, to lure the Byzantine forces into a vulnerable position. The Seljuk cavalry then launched a decisive counterattack, overwhelming the Byzantine army. Emperor Romanus IV was captured during the battle, marking a significant moment in history as it was rare for a Byzantine emperor to be taken prisoner.
Following his capture, Alp Arslan treated Romanus IV with respect and negotiated terms for his release. However, the defeat at Malazgirt had far-reaching consequences for the Byzantine Empire. It marked the beginning of the decline of Byzantine authority in Anatolia and paved the way for the gradual Turkification of the region. The victory also solidified the Seljuk Empire's dominance and is remembered as a turning point in Islamic and world history.
The Battle of Ain Jalut
The Battle of Ain Jalut, fought on Friday, the 25th of Ramadan, 658 AH (September 3, 1260 CE), was a landmark event in Islamic history. It marked the first major defeat of the Mongol Empire, halting their westward expansion and preserving the Islamic world from further devastation.
The battle took place near Ain Jalut, in the Jezreel Valley of modern-day Israel. The Mongols, under the command of Kitbuqa, had already devastated much of the Islamic world, including the sacking of Baghdad in 1258. Their forces were seen as nearly invincible, spreading fear across the region.
Sultan Al-Muẓaffar Sayf al-Din Qutuz, the leader of the Mamluk Sultanate of Egypt, recognized the existential threat posed by the Mongols. He rallied his forces and marched north to confront them. Qutuz was joined by his trusted general, Baybars, who played a crucial role in the battle's strategy.
The Mamluks employed clever tactics, including a feigned retreat orchestrated by Baybars, which lured the Mongols into a vulnerable position. Once the Mongols were exposed, the Mamluks launched a decisive counterattack. The Mongol commander Kitbuqa was killed in the battle, and his forces were routed.
This victory had profound consequences. It not only stopped the Mongol advance into the heart of the Islamic world but also solidified the Mamluk Sultanate's position as a dominant power in the region. The battle is celebrated as a turning point in history, demonstrating that the Mongols were not invincible and boosting the morale of the Muslim world.
The triumph at Ain Jalut is remembered as a testament to the resilience and strategic brilliance of the Mamluks, particularly Qutuz and Baybars, who safeguarded the Islamic civilization during one of its most perilous times.
Construction Amr ibn al-As Mosque began in Egypt.
Ramadan24, 20 AH August 27, 641 CE
20 AH - The start of the construction of the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As in Fustat, thus becoming the first mosque built in Egypt and in the entire African continent.
Oil Embargo, 24th of Ramadan 1393 AH October 21, 1973, CE
On this day in the year 1393 AH, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Dubai completely halted oil exports to the United States and the Netherlands, in solidarity with Egypt and Syria in their battle against the Israeli occupiers
Death of Abu Lahab, 24th of Ramadan in the year 2 AH March 20, 624 CE
On the 24th of Ramadan, 2 AH, Abu Lahab, the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) uncle, passed away. Known for his handsome appearance and red complexion, he succumbed to an infectious disease called "lens disease" seven nights after the Battle of Badr. Due to fear of infection, no one approached him, and his burial was conducted without direct contact. His death fulfilled the severe fate mentioned in the Holy Quran.
Death of Ibn Khaldun Ramadan 24, 808 AH, March 22, 1406 CE
In 808 AH, March 22, 1406 CE, the renowned scholar Ibn Khaldun passed away. Born in Tunisia, he served in various courts across North Africa and Al-Andalus, including roles as a scribe, secretary, and prime minister. His political maneuvers often involved betrayals and shifting allegiances, leading to multiple imprisonments and exiles. Ibn Khaldun eventually became widely respected for his intellect and contributions to history and sociology, despite his tumultuous political career.
The Destruction of the Idol al-Lat:
On this day, the 23rd of Ramadan in the year 9 AH, corresponding to 631 CE, the idol al-Lat was destroyed, following the conquest of Mecca and the demolition of all idols around the Kaaba. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) sent an army led by the Sword of Allah, Khalid ibn al-Walid, to smash the idol al-Uzza, which was venerated by the Quraysh; he broke and destroyed it, and he also sent another expedition to demolish the idol Manat.
The Fall of the Sassanian Empire:
On this day, 23rd of Ramadan in the year 31 AH, corresponding to 653 AD, the Sassanian Empire collapsed, and the Persian state surrendered to the Muslims. The Islamic conquests of Persia began in 12 AH, corresponding to 632 AD, the same year that Yazdegerd III, the grandson of King Khosrow I, ascended to the Sassanian throne. In that same year, the initial Arab Islamic conquests of Persia began. Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas defeated the large Sassanian army led by General Rustam Farrokhzad in the Battle of Qadisiyyah in the year 637 AD, and the city of Al-Madain was besieged and fell after the siege.
22nd of Ramadan 1AH =
1 AH: The beginning of the sending of the prophetic expeditions to achieve some Islamic goals, including the expedition of Hamza ibn Abd al-Muttalib to Al-Ayth, along with other expeditions that helped support the foundations of the Islamic faith.
22nd of Ramadan 8 AH January 12, 630 CE
8 AH corresponding to January 12, 630 CE: The Battle of Ta'if took place between the Muslim forces led by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the tribes of Thaqif and Hawazin. The objective of the expedition was to conquer Ta'if and eliminate the fleeing forces of Thaqif and Hawazin from the Battle of Hunayn, extending from the battle of Hunayn, as most of the remnants of Hawazin and Thaqif entered Ta'if with their leader Malik ibn Awf al-Nasri and fortified themselves there. Thus, the Messenger of Allah proceeded to them after finishing with Hunayn.
22nd of Ramadan 277 AH January 7, 891 CE
277 AH: The birth of Abd al-Rahman al-Nasir, the eighth Emir of Al-Andalus: Abd al-Rahman al-Nasir, the eighth emir of Al-Andalus from the Umayyad dynasty, was born, and he was the first to adopt the title of "Commander of the Faithful." He also held the titles of the caliphate, and his era, which lasted for fifty years, is considered one of the most glorious periods in Al-Andalus, characterized by the strength of its civilization.
22nd of Ramadan, 1336 AH = July 1, 1918 AD:
The birth of the Islamic preacher Sheikh Ahmad Deedat in the Surat district of India. His father moved him to South Africa, where his star rose due to his religious debates that led many to Islam and brought many apostates back to Islam... He passed away on the 3rd of Rajab, 1426 AH = August 8, 2005 AD, at the age of 87 at his home in South Africa. Some of his most important books include: "The Choice between Islam and Christianity," "Is the Bible the Word of God?" and "The Quran: The Miracle of Miracles."