THE TRUSTWORTHY AAMIR
In the Name of Allāh.
I came to learn of a man whose life spanned approximately 56 years. Though his time on this earth was relatively short, he led a life rich in purpose and exemplified admirable virtues. He was among the ‘Asharah al-Mubashsharūn (the ten companions who were given glad tidings of Paradise in one account) and stood out as one of the three most renowned for their character and humility among the Quraysh. Alongside ‘Uthmān Ibn Madhūn, he was one of the first to embrace Islām.
Throughout his life, he endured the brutal realities of the early Muslim community’s struggles, facing brutality, assaults, and deep sorrows in Makkah. One of the most heart-wrenching moments he experienced was the death of his father at his own hands during the Battle of Badr. He stood firm in all the battles alongside the Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ), remaining steadfast on the Day of Uhud. While I hesitate to disclose his name, I find it necessary to do so. He is Abū ‘Ubaydah Aamir Ibn Al-Jarrah Al-Qurayshi, Al-Fihriyyu, Al-Makkī.
He did not wish to slay his father; instead, he tried to evade him as his father obstructed his path. Yet, amidst the chaos of battle, the agonizing choice before him became both jarring and unequivocal. When his father’s aggression became relentless, Abū ‘Ubaydah confronted and ultimately killed him. In truth, it can be said that he did not kill his father but rather vanquished the disbelief within him. This is precisely what he conveyed when questioned after the battle.
In light of this event, Allāh revealed verse 22 of Sūrah Al-Mujādilah, which states: “You (O Muḥammad ﷺ) will not find any people who believe in Allah and the Last Day, making friendship with those who oppose Allah and His Messenger (Muḥammad ﷺ), even though they were their fathers, or their sons, or their brothers, or their kindred (people). For such, He has written Faith in their hearts and strengthened them with Ruḥ (proofs, light, and true guidance) from Himself. And We will admit them to Gardens (Paradise) under which rivers flow, to dwell therein (forever). Allah is pleased with them, and they are with Him. They are the Party of Allah. Verily, it is the Party of Allah that will be the successful.”
The Prophet (ﷺ) was known not only as Al-Ameen; his companions were equally trustworthy. However, Abū ‘Ubaydah Aamir Ibn Al-Jarrah received special recognition. When the people of Najran approached the Prophet (ﷺ) requesting, “Send an honest man to us,” he responded, “I will send to you an honest man who is trustworthy.” Every companion hoped to fulfill that role, yet the Prophet (ﷺ) chose to send Abū ‘Ubaydah Ibn Al-Jarrah. [Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 4381]
Abū ‘Ubaydah was a formidable, courageous warrior on the battlefield, ultimately meeting his end in Syria due to the plague of Amwās. When ‘Umar (Raḍiyallāhu ‘Anhu) urged him to leave Syria for his safety, he replied: “I know that you need me, but please release me from your command and permit me to stay on. I am in an army of Muslims, and I have no desire to save myself from what is afflicting them.”
I beseech Allah to extend His Special Mercy to Abū ‘Ubaydah Aamir Ibn Al-Jarrah. Aameen
Picture Credit: The Conversation