The Companions of The Last Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam)

Foreword:
Bismillahir Rahman Nir Raheem, Alhamdulillahi Rabbil Aalameen.All praise is for Almighty Allah and May peace and blessings of Allah be upon his slave and his last prophet Muhammad. May Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala exalt the position of The Prophet of Mercy- Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam. The companions of the Prophet(sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) are the criteria to differentiate between the people of truth and the people of falsehood among the sects of Islam. They are the first generation of the Salaf of the Ummah.

The Status of the Companions (Radhi Allahu Anhum)

Allah Subhanahu wa taala said in the Quran

And the foremost to embrace Islam of the Muhajirin and the Ansar and also those who followed them exactly (in faith). Allah is well-pleased with them as they are well-pleased with Him. He has prepared for them Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise), to dwell therein forever. That is the supreme success [Surah At-Tawbah, Ayat 100]

In the above Aayat Allah Subhanahu wa Taala not only declared that Allah is pleased with the Sahaaba but also commanded the coming generations to follow them exactly and in the best manner. Thus, those who question the integrity of the Sahaaba, infact they accuse Allah Subhanahu wa Taala that He praised them without knowing that they will become unbelievers(as per their claim). Here, Allah Subhanahu wa Taala did not mention only the companions from the house of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) but in general from the Muhaajireen and the Ansaar. Narrated Abu Saeed(Radhi Allahu Anhu): The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said, "Do not abuse my companions for if any one of you spent gold equal to Uhud (in Allah's Cause) it would not be equal to a Mud or even a half Mud spent by one of them." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 22]

The differencing criterion of the Hadeeth scholars of the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah is that as per the Usool Al hadeeth, All the Sahaaba of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) are Trustworthy. While the people of falsehood and the desires abuse and criticize a large majority of companions and hence they can be adjudged as the people of falsehood. If anyone tries to spit at the stars then the filth comes on his face only.

Brief Information about some of the prominent companions of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam)
1) Abdullah Bin Othman:
He is Ameer-ul-Momineen; Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (Radhi Allahu Anhu); Abdullah bin Uthman, his fathers kunniyat was Abu Quhafa so he is sometimes also mentioned as Ibn Abu Quhafa. He was the first Khaleefah (Leader) of Muslims after the death of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq(Ra) was among the best of this Ummah; He was one of the earliest muslims; He accompanied the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) in all times and in the most difficult times; He was the companion of the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) in his migration to Madeenah. His daughter sayyida Ayesha (Radhi Allahu Anha) is the mother of the believers. (wife of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam)). Allah inspired him with the guidance and leadership after the death of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) when the muslims were in a state of shock and chaos. In his era, some of tribes of the arabs refused to pay Zakah and he decided to fight against them and said that he fight with anyone who differentiates between Salah and zakat. These wars were known as the Apostate wars. He sent an army with Khalid bin Waleed to fight the apostasy under the false-Prophet Musaylimah The Liar, in the region of Yamamah. Narrated Ibn 'Abbas: The Prophet said, "If I were to take a Khalil (Very Close Friend), I would have taken Abu Bakr, but he is my brother and my companion (in Islam)." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 7] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5872]

'When Allah's Apostle fell sick with the fatal illness and when the time of prayer became due and Adhan was pronounced, he said, 'Tell Abu Bakr to lead the people in prayer [Al-Hadeeth, from Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 11, Number 633]

A woman came to the Prophet who ordered her to return to him again. She said, "What if I came and did not find you?" as if she wanted to say, "If I found you dead?" The Prophet(SAS) said, "If you should not find me, go to Abu Bakr." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 11] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5878] Narrated Muhammad Bin Hanafiyya: I asked my father ('Ali bin Abi Talib), "Who are the best people after Allah's Apostle?" He said, "Abu Bakr." I asked, "Who then?" He said, "Then 'Umar [Saheeh Al-Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 20]

2) Omar bin Al-Khattab: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He was the Second Khaleefah of Muslims after the death of Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq (Radhi Allahu Anhu). The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) prayed Allah to help Islam with one of the two Omars(Abu Jahl or Omar bin Khattab) a Muslim and Allah guided Omar bin Khattaab. On some occasions, his advices to the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) were confirmed by Allah in Quran. In his era, Islam flourished outside the Arabian Peninsula to a great deal. A'isha reported Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) as saying: There had been among the people before you Muhaddathoon (inspired persons) and if there were any such among my Ummah Umar bin Khattab would be one of them. Ibn Wahb explained the word Muhaddathun as those who receive hint from the High (Mulhamun). [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 38] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5901] Narrated Ibn 'Umar: We used to compare the people as to who was better during the lifetime of Allah's Apostle. We used to regard Abu Bakr as the best, then 'Umar, and then 'Uthman . [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 7] He was martyred when he was leading the prayer and a Persian slave attacked him with a dagger. The murderer had a dispute with companion Mugheera over his Jizya(tax) amount and he came to Omar to reduce the amount which was rejected and thus he became his enemy.

3) Uthman bin Affan: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

Ameerul Momineen Uthman Ibn Affan was the third Khaleefah of Muslims after the death of Omar Bin Khattab(Radhi Allahu Anhu); He was married to two daughters of the Prophet(SAS), he was married to sayyida Ruqayya and after her death to Sayyida Umm Kulthum. He migrated to Abyssinia also before the migration to Madeenah. Narrated Anas: The Prophet ascended the mountain of Uhud and Abu Bakr, 'Umar and 'Uthman were accompanying him. The mountain gave a shake (i.e. trembled underneath them). The Prophet said, "O Uhud ! Be calm." I think that the Prophet hit it with his foot, adding, "For upon you there are none but a Prophet, a Siddiq and two martyrs." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 49] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5942] [Sunan at-tirmidhee, 3696] {the version of Muslim and Tirmidhee has the Moutain of Hira} The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) is reported to say about Othman Should I not show modesty to one whom even the Angels show modesty [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5906] In his era, also Allah Subhanahu wa Taala flourished the Deen of Islam. He was martyred by some insurgents in the army. The murderers controlled the power, the looted the treasury and later went under cover. His blood spots fell on the Mushaf on the Ayat So, Allah will suffice for you against them So if they believe in the like of that which you believe then they are rightly guided; but if they turn away, then they are only in opposition. So Allah will suffice for you against them. And He is the Hearer, the Knower [Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayat 137]

4) Ali bin Abu Talib: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

Ameerul Momineen Ali ibn Abee Talib (Radhi Allahu Anhu) was the cousin of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) and among the earliest of the Muslims, the fourth Khaleefah of Muslims. Ameerul Momineen was one of the best Muslims. He was the husband of Sayyida Fatima (Radhi Allahu Anha) daughter of Rasool Allah (sas). His brother Jafar bin Abu Talib(Ra) was also among the early muslims and who was martyred in the battle of Mutah with the byzantines. Jafar bin Abu Talib valiantly held the flag of the army when his hand was cut off then he held it by the other and the same happened then he held it by his legs before his body was cut off and he was martyred. Ali Radhi Allahu Anhu was one of the six persons nominated by Umar(Radhi Allahu Anhu) when he was on his death bed and was requested to nominate his successor. After the assassination of Uthman Bin Affan (Radhi Allahu Anhu), Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) was chosen as a Khaleefa under these critical conditions by the people of Madeenah. Narrated Saad Ibn Abee Waqqas(RA) that the Prophet said to 'Ali, "Will you not be pleased from this that you are to me like Aaron was to Moses?" Imam Muslim reported with an addition but with (this explicit difference) that there is no prophet after me [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 56] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5913] Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said(in the battle of khaybar) "I will give the flag (to a man), or tomorrow a man whom Allah and His Apostle love will take the flag," or said, "A man who loves Allah and His Apostle; and Allah will grant victory under his leadership." Suddenly came 'Ali whom we did not expect. The people said, "This is 'Ali." Allah's Apostle(SAS) gave him the flag and Allah granted victory under his leadership. [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 52] The era of Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) as Khaleefa was in the peak of Fitan(Trials), which were rising from all directions. The Kharijite, Qadariyya, Zanadiqa and other sects started emerging and on the other hand the Muslim ranks got divided because of the assassination of Uthman(Radhi Allahu Anhu). Some of the companions (Radhi Allahu Anhu) demanded Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) to punish the murderers first but he was not having their custody and was not in a position to do that. During the era of Uthman Radhi Allahu Anhu, the under cover enemies of Islam for their vicious plans to destroy the Muslims and their Khilafat took part in secret propaganda exaggerating Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) and spreading false rivalry between Ali (Radhi Allahu Anhu) and the other companions like Abu Bakr, Umar and Uthman; the most popular lies being that they usurped the rule from Ali and his right as a Khaleefa which was given to him by the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). The chief mastermind behind this was Abdullah bin Saba a jew from Najran who professed Islam in the era of Umar(Radhi Allahu Anhu). As a result, some of the people had the worst beliefs which involved giving divinity to Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu), It is recorded by Imam Bukhari in his Saheeh that Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) burnt some Zanadiqa who had such beliefs which nullify Islam. Narrated 'Ikrima: Some Zanadiqa (atheists) were brought to 'Ali and he burnt them. The news of this event, reached Ibn 'Abbas who said, "If I had been in his place, I would not have burnt them, as Allah's Apostle forbade it, saying, 'Do not punish anybody with Allah's punishment (fire).' I would have killed them according to the statement of Allah's Apostle, 'Whoever changed his Islamic religion, then kill him.'" [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 9, Book 84, Number 57]

Hafiz Ibn Hajr mentioned in the commentary of the report that it is reported from a Hasan chain that those who were given fire punishment by Ali (Radhi Allahu Anhu) were a sect from the Rawafidha. They had beliefs that Ali is their Rabb(Allah) and Ali created them etc., Ali said Woe on you what are you saying. I am a man like you, I eat like you and drink like you and if I obey Allah I hope insha ALLAH he will reward me and if I disobey He might punish me, Be afraid of Allah and return(to faith) They refused to obey him, reject these claims and return to Islam. After serious warnings Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) ordered to burn them and even as they were being thrown in the fire they recited poetry giving divinity to Ali(ra). [See Fath Al Bari, Page 283] They infact disobeyed Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) but thought that they have found some hidden truth. Ameerul Momineen Ali bin Abee Talib(Radhi Allahu Anhu) also played a vital role in exterminating the Kharijites and he fought with them and defeated them in the battle of Nahrawan. Ameerul Momineen Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu) was martyred when a kharijite attacked him.

5) Talha bin Ubaydullah: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He was from the early Muslims and from the Emigrants. He was well known for his excellent efforts to defend the Prophet(Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) on the day of Uhud when the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) was in a difficult situation away from the other companions who were fighting the kuffar. Narrated Abu 'Uthman: During one of the Ghazawat(battles) in which Allah's Apostle was fighting, none remained with the Prophet but Talha and Sad(Saad bin Abee Waqqas). [Saheeh Muslim,Book 31, Number 5937] [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 69] Narrated Qais bin Abi Hazim: I saw Talha's paralyzed hand with which he had protected the Prophet (Sas) (from an arrow). [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 70] Abu Dad At-Tayalisi on the authority of Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her), said: Whenever Uhud Day (i.e. battle) was mentioned, Abu Bakr used to say: That was Talhas day (i.e. battle) [Taken from The Sealed Nectar] [See Also Fath Al Bari, Kitaab Fazael as-sahaabah]

6) Saad bin Abee Waqqas: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He was among the earliest of the Muslims and from the Emigrants. Saad bin Abee Waqqas and Talha bin Ubaydullah were the two men who gave best efforts to defend the prophet(sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) on the day of Uhud when the idolaters were attacking the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) fiercely. Allah's Apostle (may peace be upon him) said to him: (Sa'd), shoot an arrow, (Sa'd), may my mother and father be taken as ransom for you. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5932]

During the early days of migration when the enemies of Allah planned to assassinate the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) the below event happened. 'A'isha(RA) reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace he upon him) lay on bed during one night and said: Were there a pious person from amongst my companions who should keep a watch for me during the night? She said: We heard the noise of arms, whereupon Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Who is it? And Sa'd bin Abi Waqqas said: Allah's Messenger. I have come to serve as your sentinel. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5925]

7) Zubayr bin Awwaam: The Hawari (Desciple) of Prophet(SAS) (Radhi Allahu Anhu)
He was among the earliest of the Muslims and from the Emigrants, His mother was Prophets(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) paternal cousin. In general, all the companions of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) are his desciples but the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) called some of them with specialties found in them. Jabir bin Abdullah reported: I heard Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) exhorting people on the Day of the Battle of the Ditch to fight. Zubair said: I am ready (to participate). He then again exhorted and he again said : I am ready to participate. Thereupon Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Behold. For every Prophet there is a helper and my helper is Zubair. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5938] [Saheeh Bukhari, 3719]

8) Abdur Rahman Bin Auf: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He was from the early Muslims and his name before Islam was Abd Amr and was changed to Abdur Rahman when he became Muslim, He migrated to Abyssinia before migration to Madeenah. He was involved in the battles of Badr, Uhud, Tabuk. He stood fast with the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) on the day of Uhud [Taken from Tohfatul Ahwazee bi Sharh Jami At-Tirmidhee]

9) Saeed bin Zayd (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He is among the foremost Muslims and the brother in law of Umar bin Khattaab(RA). He and his wife Fatima bint Khattaab(RA) accepted Islam before Umar bin Khattaab.(RA) From Abdur Rahman bin auf from the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) AbuBakr will be in Paradise, Umar will be in Paradise, and Uthman will be in Paradise and Ali will be in paradise and Talhah will be in paradise and azZubayr (ibn alAwwam) will be in paradise and AbdurRahman ibn Auf will be in paradise and Saad(bin Abee Waqqas) will be in paradise and Saeed(ibn Zayd) will be in paradise and Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah will be in paradise [Sunan At-Tirmidhee, Kitaabul Manaqib, 3748] [Sunan Abu Dawud, Kitaab-us-Sunnah, Hadeeth 4632 from Saeed ibn Zayd]

10) Abu Ubaydah bin Al-Jarraah: The Trustworthy of this Ummah: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)
He is Aamir bin Abdullah bin Jarrah. One of the foremost muslims, migrated to Abyssinia twice. On the day of Uhud, when parts of the iron helmet pierced the Prophets(Sas) noble face and his two teeth were martyred (broken), Abu Ubaydah was the one who interfered to remove the parts from the noble face. Narrated Anas bin Malik: Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said, "Every nation has an extremely trustworthy man, and the trustworthy man of this (i.e. Muslim) nation is Abu 'Ubaida bin Al-Jarrah." Narrated Hudhaifa: The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said to the people of Najran, "I will send you the most trustworthy man." (Every one of) the companions of the Prophet was looking forward (to be that person). He then sent Abu 'Ubaida. [Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 87 & 88]

These Ten are famously known as Al-Asaharatul Mubashshara (The Promised Ten)

11) Zayd bin Harithah & his son Usama: (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)
Zayd bin Haritha was among the early Muslims with the Mother of the believers sayyida Khadeeja. He was her slave; she gave to Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) after her marriage with Prophet(SAS). In the beginning, he was considered as an adopted son of Prophet(sas). He was one of the close and most beloved person to the prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). He was martyred in the battle of Mutah with the byzantines as a leader of the troops. Before the death the Prophet(sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), he ordered a troop under the leadership of Usama bin Zayd who was a youngster. The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "If you are criticizing Usama's leadership, you used to criticize his father's leadership before. By Allah! He was worthy of leadership and was one of the dearest persons to me, and (now) this (i.e. Usama) is one of the dearest to me after him (i.e. Zaid)." [Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 77] [Saheeh Muslim,Book 31, Number 5958] Narrated Usama bin Zaid(Radhi Allahu Anhu): That the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) used to take him (i.e. Usama) and Al-Hassan (in his lap) and say: "O Allah! Love them, as I love them." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 81]

12) Saad bin Muadh: (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

Saad bin Muadh was from the Helpers(Ansaar). He became a Muslim, when the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) was in Makkah and some of his companions migrated to Madeenah. He was among the leaders of the people of Madeenah and cooperated with best efforts to the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). Saad bin Muadh was an honourable companion of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). During the day of Ahzaab(Confederates), war of the ditch, he suffered severe injuries and he was martyred after some time.

Before death, the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) appointed Saad to make a judgement on the Banu Qurayzah, who cheated the Muslims during the war of Khandaq(Ditch). Jabir bin 'Abdullah reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying while the bier of Sa'd bin Mu'adh was placed before them: The Throne of the most Gracious shook at the death of Sa'd bin Mu'adh. [Saheeh Muslim,Book 31, Number 6033] [See Also, Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 58, Number 147]

13) Hamza and Abbas bin Abdul Muttallib(Radhi Allahu Anhuma)

They were the uncles of the Prophet(Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), brothers of Prophets father Abdullah bin Abdul Muttallib; Hamza (Radhi Allahu Anhu) became Muslim before Umar(RA), and he was a valiant man, took part in the battle of Badr and Uhud. He is known as Syed us-Shuhadaa (Leader of martyrs) and Asad ullah (The Lion of Allah). After his martyrdom in the battle of Uhud, his body was mutiliated by the pagans and a pagan woman who later became muslim even chewed his liver. Abbas (Radhi Allahu Anhu) took part in the battle of Hunayn and was among the close aides of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) in a difficult situation. He was much respected by the companions. Narrated Anas(Radhi Allahu Anhu): Whenever there was drought, 'Umar bin Al-Khattab used to ask Allah for rain through Al'Abbas bin 'Abdul Muttalib, saying, "O Allah! We used to request our Prophet to ask You for rain, and You would give us. Now we request the uncle of our Prophet to ask You for rain, so give us rain." And they would be given rain." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 59]

14) Hasan bin Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhuma) 15) Hussayn bin Ali: (Radhi Allahu Anhuma) Leaders of Youngsters in Jannah Two Flowers of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) in the world
They were the grandsons of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam), the sons of sayyida Fatima (Radhi Allahu Anha) and Ali bin Abu Talib(Radhi Allahu Anhu). Both of them resembled the Prophet(Sallallahu alayhi wa Sallam) in his noble appearance and face. Narrated Usama bin Zaid(Radhi Allahu Anhu): That the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) used to take him (i.e. Usama) and Al-Hassan (in his lap) and say: "O Allah! Love them, as I love them." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 81] Narrated Abu Bakra: I heard the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) talking at the pulpit while Al-Hasan was sitting beside him, and he (i.e. the Prophet ) was once looking at the people and at another time Al-Hasan, and saying, "This son of mine is a Saiyid (i.e. chief) and perhaps Allah will bring about an agreement between two sects of the Muslims through him." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 89]

Hasan(Radhi Allahu Anhu) was the elder one. After the martyrdom of Ameerul Momineen Ali (Radhi Allahu Anhu), people gave pledge to Hasan(Radhi Allahu Anhu). On the otherside Muawiya bin Abu Sufyan(Radhi Allahu Anhuma) had his group who wanted him as the Ameerul Momineen. Hasan along with forty thousand brave men who had given the pledge of death to Ali(Ra) marched towards Muawiyah and he also did the same. When they were on the verge of the war Hasan (Radhi Allahu Anhu) seeing both the armies gave a message to Muawiyya that he has given up his claim and demanded Muawiya that Hasan(Radhi Allahu Anhu) will be his successor and thus he sacrificed power for saving the blood of the Muslims. {It is also reported that Muwiyah also sent peace making message} This settlement, while, it was a great sacrifice but inflicted bitter feelings in some of his supporters. While he was returning to Madeenah from the journey his health collapsed and before his death he said to Hussayn(Ra) that he was given poison several times. He died in Madeenah and he requested sayyida Ayesha(Radhi Allahu Anha) to be buried in her home which she approved but the tyrants did not allow this. [Taken(Summarization) from Rahmatul lil Aalameen (Urdu)] Hussayn(Radhi Allahu Anhu): The people of Koofa (Iraq) promised to support Hussayn(Ra) against Yazeed bin Muawiya who came to power after the death of Muawiya his father as inheritance even though there were many honorable people from the companions among the Muslims. When Hussayn(Radhi Allahu Anhu) left for Koofa anticipating support from the people who promised him, Ubaydullah bin Ziyad (one of the representative of the government) reached Koofa before him and the majority of the people who promised support to Hussayn (Radhi Allahu Anhu) fled. [Taken from Tuhfatul Ahwazee] And Hussayn(Radhi Allahu Anhu) was thus martyred in Karbala(Iraq) under tragic conditions. Imam Bukhari (Radhi Allahu Anhu) collected the below report Narrated Ibn Abi Nu'm: A person asked 'Abdullah bin 'Umar whether a Muslim could kill flies. I heard him saying (in reply). "The people of Iraq are asking about the killing of flies while they themselves murdered the son of the daughter of Allah's Apostle(SAS). The Prophet(SAS) said, They (i.e. Hasan and Husain) are my two sweet basils in this world." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 96] Narrated Abu Saeed Al-Khudri (Radhi Allahu Anhu) The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said Hasan and Hussayn are the chiefs of the younsters of Jannah [Sunan Tirmidhee, 3926] Imam Tirmizi said it is Hasan Saheeh Shaykh Ahmad Shakir graded it Saheeh Abdurrahman mubarakpoori said Imam Suyuti said its mutawaatir

16) Abdullah bin Masoud (Radhi Allahu Anhu) 17) Muadh bin Jabal(Radhi Allahu Anhu) 18) Ubay bin Kab(Radhi Allahu Anhu) 19) Zayd bin Thabit(Radhi Allahu Anhu)
Masruq reported: They made a mention of Ibn Mas'ud before 'Abdullah bin Amr, whereupon he said: He is a person whose love is always fresh in my heart after I heard Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: Learn the recitation of the Qur'an from four persons: from Ibn Mas'ud, Salim, the ally of Abu Hudhaifa, Ubayy bin Ka'b, Mu'adh bin Jabal. [Saheeh Muslim,Book 31, Number 6027] [Saheeh Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 103]

Hammam said: I said to Anas bin Malik: Who collected the Qur'an during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) ? He said: Four (persons), all of them belonging to Ansir: Ubayy bin Ka'b, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Zaid bin Thabit and a person from the Ansar whose Kunya was Abu Zaid. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6030]

18) Abdullah bin Abbas (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)

He was the son of Abbas the uncle of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) well known among the companions for his understanding of the Quran. He transmitted a lot of Ahadeeth. Narrated Ibn Abbas(Radhi Allahu Anhu): Once the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) embraced me (pressed me to his chest) and said, "O Allah, teach him wisdom (i.e. the understanding of the knowledge of Qur'an)." [Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 100] [See Also, Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6055]

19) Abdullah bin Umar (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)

He was the son of Umar(Radhi Allahu Anhu). He transmitted many Ahadeeth from the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). A lot of narrations of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) have been narrated from him. He was a staunch follower of sunnah and he disliked when people did not follow Sunnah. It is reported that once he saw a person not performing a sunnah in prayer and he threw pebbles at him. Narrated Ibn 'Umar from Hafsa his sister: That the Prophet had said to her, "'Abdullah is a pious man." [Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 84] [See Also Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6056] Another wording of Muslim is Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said: Worthy is this man Abdullah, O that he would pray at night [Saheeh Muslim, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 86]

20) Anas bin Malik (Radhi Allahu Anhu):

He is known as Khadim ur Rasool(Sas), servant of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). He narrated Hadeeth to a lot of students Anas(Radhi Allahu Anhu) reported that Umm Sulaim said (to the Holy Prophet) Allah's Messenger, here is your servant Anas, invoke blessings of Allah upon him. Thereupon he (the Holy Prophet) said: O Allah, make an increase in his wealth, and progeny, and confer blessings upon him in everything Thou hast bestowed upon him. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6059]

21) Abu Hurayrah (Radhi Allahu Anhu)

He is known as Abu Hurayrah, his name is AbdurRahman bin Sakhr, one of the people of the Suffah. The people of Suffa used to sit at the Masjid of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) most of them pious worshippers. He narrated Hadeeth to a lot of students. Narrated Abu Huraira: The people used to say, "Abu Huraira narrates too many narrations." In fact I used to keep close to Allah's Apostle and was satisfied with what filled my stomach. I ate no leavened bread and dressed no decorated striped clothes, and never did a man or a woman serve me, and I often used to press my belly against gravel because of hunger, and I used to ask

a man to recite a Quranic Verse to me although I knew it, so that he would take me to his home and feed me. [Saheeh Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 57] Imam Muslim collected a similar report but with below addition Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: He who spreads the cloth would not forget anything that he would hear from me. I spread my cloth until he narrated something. I then pressed it against my (chest), so I never forgot anything that I heard from him. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6083]

23) Bilal bin Rabaah and Abdullah bin Umm Maktoum (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)
Bilal (Radhi Allahu Anhu) was from the early converts from the foremost muslims. He was the slave of one of the pagans and the pagans gave him very hard punishments and forced several times to forsake Islam but he remained steadfast. On several occasions, they dragged him by tying a rope and kept a large rock on his stomach in scorching heat. On one such occasion, he was finally freed by Abu Bakr(Radhi Allahu Anhu). He and Abdullah bin Umm Maktoum used to announce Azaan, the call to prayer. Jabir bin 'Abdullah reported: I was shown Paradise and I saw the wife of Abu Talha (i.e. Umm Sulaim) and I heard the noise of steps before me and, lo, it was that of Bilal. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6012] [See Also Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 97] Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah: Umar used to say, "Abu Bakr is our chief, and he manumitted our chief," meaning Bilal. [Saheeh Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 98] Abdullah bin Umm Maktoum was a blind companion of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) A pious worshipper, he has the honor that some Aayat in Quran were revealed and he was in the context.

24) Khalid bin Waleed(Radhi Allahu Anhu) : The Sword of Allah

Khalid bin Waleed (Radhi Allahu Anhu) was from the latter companions of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). He became Muslim after The Hudaybiyah Treaty. He was a fierce warrior and a master mind of the battle field. Abu Bakr As-Siddeeq(Radhi Allahu Anhu) sent him to wipe out the Fitnah of Musaylima the Liar and to fight the byzantines. He was involved in great victories until the era of Umar(Radhi Allahu Anhu). Narrated Anas(Radhi Allahu Anhu): The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) had informed the people about the death of Zaid, Ja'far and Ibn Rawaha before the news of their death reached them. He said with his eyes flowing with tears, "Zaid took the flag and was martyred; then Ja'far took the flag and was martyred, and then Ibn Rawaha took the flag and was martyred. Finally the flag was taken by one of Allah's Swords (i.e. Khalid bin Al-Walid) and Allah gave them (i.e. the Muslims) victory." [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 102] Narrated Khalid bin Al-Walid(Radhi Allahu Anhu): On the day (of the battle of) Mu'tah, nine swords were broken in my hand, and nothing was left in my hand except a Yemenite sword of mine. [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 59, Number 564]

25) Abu Dujanah (Radhi Allahu Anhu) : The Red Banded Hero of Uhud
Sammak bin Kharasha Abu Dujana was a brave warrior in the battle of Uhud. Anas reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) took hold of his sword on the Day of Uhud and said: Who would take it from me? All the persons stretched their hands saying: I would do it, I would do it. He (Allah's Apostle SAS) said: Who would take it in order to fulfil its rights? Then the people withdrew their hands. Simak bin Kharasha Abu Dujana said: I am here to take it and fulfil its rights. He took it and struck the heads of the polytheists. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6040] Abu Dujana was a man of courage who used to swagger at war. He had a red band which he wore around his head. Whenever he was head-banded everybody knew that he was determined to fight to death. Therefore as soon as Abu Dujana took the Prophet s sword, he banded his head and started strutting amongst the fighters. Watching him doing that, the Messenger of Allh (Peace be upon him) said: This is a sort of walking that Allh detests except in such a situation. [Taken from Ar-Raheequl Makhtoum]

26) Muawiyah bin Abu Sufyan (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)

Muawiyah bin Abu Sufyan Radhi Allahu Anhuma was the son of Abu Sufyan and Uthman (Radhi Allahu Anhu) made him the governor of Shaam(Syria). Abu Sufyan became Muslim at the conquest of Makkah and he remain steadfast on the day of Hunayn. He entered a peace agreement with Hasan bin Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhuma) who sacrificed his claim for leadership. Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) prophesized this peace agreement and he addressed both groups as Muslims. Narrated Al-Hasan Al-Basri: By Allah, Al-Hasan bin Ali led large battalions like mountains against Muawiya. Amr bin AlAs said (to Muawiya), "I surely see battalions which will not turn back before killing their opponents." Muawiya who was really the best of the two men(between Muawiya and Amr) said to him, "O 'Amr! If these killed those and those killed these, who would be left with me for the jobs of the public, who would be left with me for their women, who would be left with me for their children?" Then Muawiya sent two Quraishi men from the tribe of 'Abd-i-Shams called 'Abdur Rahman bin Sumura and Abdullah bin 'Amir bin Kuraiz to Al-Hasan saying to them, "Go to this man (i.e. Al-Hasan) and negotiate peace with him and talk and appeal to him." So, they went to Al-Hasan and talked and appealed to him to accept peace. AlHasan said, "We, the offspring of 'Abdul Muttalib, have got wealth and people have indulged in killing and corruption (and money only will appease them)." They said to AlHasan, "Muawiya offers you so and so, and appeals to you and entreats you to accept peace." Al-Hasan said to them, "But who will be responsible for what you have said?" They said, "We will be responsible for it." So, what-ever Al-Hasan asked they said, "We will be responsible for it for you." So, Al-Hasan concluded a peace treaty with Muawiya. Al-Hasan (Al-Basri) said: I heard Abu Bakra(Radhi Allahu Anhu) saying, "I saw Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) on the pulpit and Al-Hasan bin 'Ali was by his side. The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) was looking once at the people and once at Al-Hasan bin 'Ali saying, 'This son of mine is a Saiyid (i.e. a noble) and may Allah make peace between two big groups of Muslims through him." [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 49, Number 867]

Narrated Ibn Abu Mulaika: Muawiya offered one Rak'a Witr prayer after the 'Isha prayer, and at that time a freed slave of Ibn 'Abbas was present. He (i.e. the slave) went to Ibn 'Abbas (and told him that Muawiya offered one Rak'a Witr prayer). Ibn Abbas said, "Leave him, for he was in the company of Allah's Apostle." In another version, Ibn 'Abbas replied, "He is a Faqih (i.e. a learned man who can give religious verdicts) ." [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 108, 109]

27) Khubaib and Asim bin Thabit(Radhi Allahu Anhuma)

Ten companions including Asim bin Thabit and Khubaib Radhi Allahu Anhu were sent as spies to Ar-Raji when a large group of beduin pagans came across them and attacked them. Three of them were left and the beduins treacherously captured them and sold two of them to their enemies in Makkah. It was decided that Khubaib would be crucified. Before crucifixon, he was tortured and someone asked him would you like Muhammad(sas) to be at your place and you are with your family? He replied By Allh, I do not wish that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) now were in the place I occupy or that a thorn could hurt him, and that I were sitting with my family. The sons of Al-Harit bin 'Amr bin Naufal bought Khubaib for he was a person who had killed (their father) Al-Hari bin 'Amr on the day (of the battle) of Badr. Khubaib remained imprisoned by them till they decided unanimously to kill him. One day Khubaib borrowed from a daughter of Al-Harith, a razor for shaving his public hair, and she lent it to him. By chance, while she was inattentive, a little son of hers went to him (i.e. Khubaib) and she saw that Khubaib had seated him on his thigh while the razor was in his hand. She was so much terrified that Khubaib noticed her fear and said, "Are you afraid that I will kill him? Never would I do such a thing." Later on (while narrating the story) she said, "By Allah, I had never seen a better captive than Khubaib. By Allah, one day I saw him eating from a bunch of grapes in his hand while he was fettered with iron chains and (at that time) there was no fruit in Mecca." She used to say," It was food Allah had provided Khubaib with." When they took him to Al-Hil out of Mecca sanctuary to martyr him, Khubaib requested them. "Allow me to offer a two-Rak'at prayer." They allowed him and he prayed two Rakat and then said, "By Allah! Had I not been afraid that you would think I was worried, I would have prayed more." Then he (invoked evil upon them) saying, "O Allah! Count them and kill them one by one, and do not leave anyone of them"'

Then he recited(Poetry): "As I am martyred as a Muslim, I do not care in what way I receive my death for Allah's Sake, for this is for the Cause of Allah. If He wishes, He will bless the cut limbs of my body." Then Abu Sarva, 'Ubqa bin Al-Harith went up to him and killed him. It was Khubaib who set the tradition of praying for any Muslim to be martyred in captivity (before he is executed). The Prophet(sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) told his companions of what had happened (to those ten spies) on the same day they were martyred. Some Quraish people, being informed of 'Asim bin Thabit's death, sent some messengers to bring a part of his body so that his death might be known for certain, for he had previously killed one of their leaders (in

the battle of Badr). But Allah sent a swarm of wasps to protect the dead body of 'Asim, and they shielded him from the messengers who could not cut anything from his body. [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 59, Number 325]

28) Amr bin Al-Aas and his son Abdullah (Radhi Allahu Anhuma)
Amr bin Al-Aas Radhi Allahu Anhu became Muslim by witnessing the events in the palace of Negus, When he went to Ethiopia as a pagan representative to extradite the emigrants there. He was sent to Oman as a messenger of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). His son Abdullah bin Amr was also a companion. He was known to write the narrations of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) and he had the largest number of Hadeeth from the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). Narrated Abu Huraira(Radhi Allahu Anhu): There is none among the companions of the Prophet(sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) who has narrated more Hadiths than I except 'Abdullah bin Amr (bin Al-'As) who used to write them and I never did the same. [Saheeh Bukhari, Book of Knowledge, Chapter Writing of knowledge, Hadeeth 113] Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-'As narrated: I used to write everything which I heard from the Apostle of Allah(peace_be_upon_him). I intended (by it) to memorise it. The Quraysh prohibited me saying: Do you write everything that you hear from him while the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him) is a human being: he speaks in anger and pleasure? So I stopped writing, and mentioned it to the Apostle of Allah (peace_be_upon_him). He signalled with his finger to his mouth and said: Write, by Him in Whose hand my soul lies, only right(HAQ) comes out from it. [Sunan Abu Dawood, Kitaab-ul-ilm, baab kitaabatul ilm, 133; Musannaf Ibn Abee Shaibaa, Kitaab ul Adab] [Musnad Ahmad 2/162/6510 & 2/192; Sunan Ad-Darimi 1/125; Mustadrak Al Hakim 1/359] [Silsila Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah, 1532]

Some among the Women: 1) Khadija Bint Khuwaylid (Radhi Allahu Anha)
Prior to Hijra, in Makkah the Prophets household comprised him (Peace be upon him) and his wife Khadijah bint Khuwailid. He was twenty-five and she was forty when they got married. She was the first woman he married. She was the only wife he had till she died. He had sons and daughters with her. None of their sons lived long. They all died. Their daughters were Zainab, Ruqaiya, Umm Kulthum and Fatimah. [From The Sealed Nectar] Narrated 'Aisha(Radhi Allahu Anha): I did not feel jealous of any of the wives of the Prophet as much as I did of Khadija though I did not see her, but the Prophet used to mention her very often, and when ever he slaughtered a sheep, he would cut its parts and send them to the women friends of Khadija. When I sometimes said to him, "(You treat Khadija in such a way) as if there is no woman on earth except Khadija," he would say, "Khadija was such-and-such, and from her I had children." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 58, Number 166]

Narrated 'Ali(Radhi Allahu Anhu): The Prophet(Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam) said, "The best of the world's women is Mary (at her lifetime), and the best of the world's women is Khadija (at her lifetime)." [Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 58, Number 163]

2) Aaisha bin Abu Bakr (Radhi Allahu Anha)

She is one of the best Muslims and the most beloved wife of the Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). She was a scholar among the companions. She has the honor that Allah Subhanahu wa Taala revealed Quran to absolve her from the slander of the hypocrites. Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) died when she was in his company and is buried in her room. Narrated Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari: Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said, "Many amongst men attained perfection but amongst women none attained the perfection except Mary, the daughter of Imran and Asiya, the wife of Pharaoh. And the superiority of 'Aisha to other women is like the superiority of Tharid (i.e. an Arabic dish) to other meals." [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 113, 114] [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5966] The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said, "O Um Salama! Don't trouble me by harming 'Aisha, for by Allah, the Divine Inspiration never came to me while I was under the blanket of any woman amongst you except her." [Saheeh Al Bukhari, Volume 5, Book 57, Number 119]

Narrated Al-Qasim bin Muhammad: Once 'Aisha became sick and Ibn 'Abbas went to see her and said, "O mother of the believers! You are leaving for truthful fore-runners i.e. for Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) and Abu Bakr. [Saheeh Al Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 115]

3) Fatima (Radhi Allahu Anha)

She is the daughter of Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam). One of the best Muslims. She was the wife of Ali bin Abu Talib(Radhi Allahu anhu) and she was one of the most beloved to prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) Narrated Al-Miswar bin Makhrama: Allah's Apostle(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) said, "Fatima is a part of me, and whoever makes her angry, makes me angry." [Saheeh Al Bukhari,Volume 5, Book 57, Number 111] 'A'isha reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) called his daughter Fatima (during his last illness). He said. to her something secretly and she wept. He again said to her something secretly and she laughed. 'A'isha further reported that she said to Fatima: What is that which Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said to you secretly and you wept and then said to you something secretly and you laughed? Thereupon she said: He informed me secretly of his death and so I wept. He then again informed me secretly that I would be the first amongst the members of his family to follow him and so I laughed. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6003]

In another version, Imam Muslim collected the below wording The Prophet(Sallallahu Alayhi wa sallam) asked Fatima, are you not pleased that you should be at the head of the believing women or the head of this Ummah [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 6004] Narrated Saad bin Abee Waqqas(Radhi Allahu Anhu) When the (following) verse was revealed: "Let us summon our children and your children." Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) called 'Ali, Fatima, Hasan and Husain and said: O Allah, they are my family. [Saheeh Muslim, Book 31, Number 5915]

*As indicated earlier we should respect and honor all the companions and infact many more of them are not in the above list. May Allah Subhanahu wa Taala make us among those who honor, respect and those who follow the footsteps of the companions who in fact followed Allah and His Messenger(Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) Wa Sallillahumma Alaa Nabiyyina Muhammad wa Alaa Aalihi Wa Sahbihi Wa Man Tabiahum bi Ihsaani ilaa Yaumiddeen, Wal Hamdulillahi Rabbil Aalameen.