Among the three commanders of the Battle of Mu'tah in Jumada al-Awwal, 8 AH, was a man of words as well as courage: 'Abdullah ibn Rawahah (may Allah be pleased with him), a poet of the Ansar who used his talent for Islam.
One of the Early Helpers of Madinah
'Abdullah ibn Rawahah was from the Khazraj tribe of Madinah. He accepted Islam before the Hijrah and was present at the second Pledge of 'Aqabah, where he was chosen as one of the twelve leaders (nuqaba) of the Ansar. He took part in Badr, Uhud, the Trench and other events with the Prophet ﷺ.
A Poet Who Served the Truth
In Arabia, poets were very powerful – their words could raise or destroy a tribe's reputation. 'Abdullah used his poetry to defend the Prophet ﷺ and encourage the believers. During the digging of the Trench, the companions worked while reciting lines of poetry, and some of the verses they chanted were from 'Abdullah ibn Rawahah, as reported in Sahih al-Bukhari.
His story teaches us that every talent – writing, speaking, art, technology – can be used to serve Allah and spread goodness.
His Words Before Mu'tah
When the Muslims at Mu'tah saw the enormous enemy army, some suggested waiting for help. 'Abdullah stood up and reminded them that they did not fight because of numbers or weapons, but for their faith – and that either victory or martyrdom was a good outcome. His words gave the army strength.
The Third Commander
After Zayd ibn Harithah and Ja'far ibn Abi Talib were martyred, 'Abdullah took the flag, as the Prophet ﷺ had instructed (Sahih al-Bukhari, 4261). He hesitated for a moment, encouraged himself with poetry, and then went forward and fought until he was martyred.
Lessons for Children and Adults
- Use your talents for good. Whatever you are good at, use it to please Allah.
- Encourage others. Kind and brave words can lift people's hearts.
- It is normal to feel fear. Courage means doing the right thing even when you feel afraid.
- Keep your promises. He was faithful to his pledge at 'Aqabah until the end.
Activity for Kids
Write two or three short lines (in English or your home language) about a good quality – such as honesty or kindness – and share it with your family. You are using words for good, just like 'Abdullah ibn Rawahah!
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