The Quran mentions many prophets by name, but only one companion of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is mentioned by name in it: Zayd ibn Harithah (may Allah be pleased with him). He was also the first commander at the Battle of Mu'tah, fought in the month of Jumada al-Awwal, 8 AH. His life is a beautiful story of love, loyalty and faith.
A Boy Taken from His Family
As a young boy, Zayd was captured in a raid and sold as a slave in Makkah. He was bought for Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), who later gave him to the Prophet ﷺ. The Prophet ﷺ treated him with great kindness and love.
A Choice That Showed True Love
Years later, Zayd's father and uncle found him in Makkah and came to take him home. The Prophet ﷺ gave Zayd the choice: go with his family, or stay. To everyone's surprise, Zayd chose to stay with the Prophet ﷺ, because of the kindness he had found. The Prophet ﷺ then freed him and announced that Zayd was like his own son. People began calling him "Zayd ibn Muhammad".
Among the First Muslims
When the Prophet ﷺ received revelation, Zayd was among the very first people to believe in him. He stood by the Prophet ﷺ through the hardest years in Makkah, including the difficult journey to Ta'if.
Named in the Quran
Later, Allah revealed that adopted children should be called by the names of their real fathers (Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:5), so he was again called Zayd ibn Harithah. Allah mentioned him by name in Surah Al-Ahzab, 33:37 – a unique honour among all the companions.
Leader at Mu'tah
When the Prophet ﷺ sent an army to Mu'tah, he chose Zayd as its first commander (Sahih al-Bukhari, 4261). Zayd carried the flag bravely and was martyred in the battle. The Prophet ﷺ grieved deeply for him. His son Usamah ibn Zayd was also greatly loved by the Prophet ﷺ and later led an army himself as a young man.
Lessons for All Ages
- Kindness wins hearts. Zayd chose the Prophet ﷺ because of his gentle character.
- Islam honours people for their faith, not their wealth or family background.
- Loyalty matters. Zayd stayed faithful in good times and hard times.
- Treat everyone with dignity, including those who work for us.
Questions for Family Discussion
- Why do you think Zayd chose to stay with the Prophet ﷺ?
- What makes Zayd special among all the companions?
- How can we show kindness at home and at school this week?
Learn the Quran and Seerah Together
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