Among the heroes of the Battle of Mu'tah, which took place in Jumada al-Awwal 8 AH, was a companion whose character, speech and courage were unforgettable: Ja'far ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him), the cousin of the Prophet ﷺ and the brother of 'Ali.
Who Was Ja'far?
Ja'far was one of the early Muslims in Makkah. The Prophet ﷺ loved him dearly and once told him: "You resemble me in appearance and in character." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2699). He was known for his generosity – especially towards the poor, so much so that Abu Hurairah said he was the best of people to the needy.
The Spokesman in Abyssinia
When the Muslims of Makkah faced harsh persecution, a group of them migrated to Abyssinia (Ethiopia), where a just Christian king, the Najashi (Negus), ruled. Ja'far was their leader. When the Quraysh sent messengers to bring the Muslims back, the Najashi called Ja'far to explain Islam.
Ja'far spoke beautifully. He described how people used to worship idols, eat dead animals, break family ties and treat the weak unjustly – until Allah sent a Messenger from among them who taught them to worship Allah alone, to speak the truth, to keep their promises, to be kind to relatives and neighbours, and to pray, give charity and fast. He then recited the beginning of Surah Maryam. The Najashi wept and refused to hand the Muslims over.
"The One with Two Wings"
At Mu'tah, Ja'far carried the flag after Zayd ibn Harithah was martyred. He fought with great bravery until he too was martyred. The Prophet ﷺ gave the good news that Allah had given Ja'far two wings in Paradise. For this reason he is known as Dhul-Janahayn – "the one with two wings". 'Abdullah ibn 'Umar used to greet Ja'far's son by saying: "Peace be upon you, O son of the one with two wings." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3709)
Caring for His Family
When the news of Ja'far's death came, the Prophet ﷺ went to his family, comforted his children and told the people to prepare food for them, because they were busy with their grief. This became a beautiful Sunnah – helping a grieving family with food.
Lessons for Children and Adults
- Speak the truth clearly and politely, even in front of powerful people.
- The Quran touches hearts – Ja'far's recitation moved a king to tears.
- Be generous to the poor, as Ja'far was.
- Support families in times of loss – take them food and comfort.
Recite the Quran Beautifully
Ja'far's story shows the power of the Quran recited well. At Tehfiz-ul-Quran Academy, our tutors help children and adults recite with correct Tajweed – one-on-one, online. Start your 3-day free trial.