Courage is a manifestation of an elevated mindset. To live with dignity and self-respect in society, there is no alternative but to adorn oneself with the fragrance of courage. The Qur’an and Sunnah encourage a believer (Mumin) to be courageous. The unparalleled lessons of courage are embedded in various verses of the Holy Qur’an.
It is from these verses, illuminated by the pure teaching of courage, that a believer takes his inspiration. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) directs the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and the believers to be characterized by courage, saying: “So let those fight in the cause of Allah who sell the life of this world for the Hereafter. And he who fights in the cause of Allah and is killed or achieves victory – We will bestow upon him a great reward.” (An-Nisa 4:74)
The pure fragrance of courage is scattered throughout the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His every word and action radiated the brilliance of courage and heroism. A look at the sacred pages of the Prophet’s life makes it clear as day that in any adverse situation, danger, or calamity of his life, he possessed firm resolve, strong faith, and boundless courage. That is why Allah (SWT) addressed him, saying: “(O Prophet!) Fight in the cause of Allah. You are not responsible except for yourself, and encourage the believers (to fight).” (Surah An-Nisa 4:84).
From childhood, heroism and courage became an integral part of the Prophet’s noble character. He showed his courage by participating in the ‘Fijar’ war when he was not even fifteen years old. (Al-Bidayah Wan Nihayah – 2:289). Additionally, he stayed alone for long periods in the Cave of Hira, located on a high mountain in the desolate desert. (As-Siratun Nabawiyyah – Ibn Kathir – 1:385).
The Prophet (PBUH) demonstrated courage in every aspect of his life. His intelligent bravery shone through in times of peril. He bravely extended a helping hand to people in need. Unparalleled examples of the Prophet’s courage are found in the collections of Hadith.
Anas (RA) reported: He said, “One day, the people in Madinah were frightened. The Prophet (PBUH) rode Abu Talha’s (RA) horse, went to investigate, and returned saying: ‘I found nothing alarming. I found this horse to be like the sea (swift-moving).'” (Sunan Abi Dawud: 4988). What a unique example of courage! In times of danger and conflict, he was the first to rush forward.
Hazrat Ali (RA) said, “When the war began and it became intense, we would worry about the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) (lest any harm befall him)! Because no one was closer to the enemy than him.” (Musnad Ahmad: 1346).
Hazrat Miqdad ibn Amr (RA), while describing the steadfastness and courage of the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) in the Battle of Uhud, said, “I swear by the One who sent him as a true Prophet! He would fight and reach so close to the enemies that the distance between him and the enemy was only one span. He would be right in front of the enemy. The Companions would also fight and sometimes reach him, and sometimes retreat from him. I would see him sometimes standing and shooting arrows, and sometimes throwing stones. Consequently, the disbelievers would retreat, but the Prophet (PBUH) remained steadfast in his place.” (Dalailun Nubuwwah: 3:246).
On that day (of Hunayn), no one was seen to be more firm and closer to the enemy in the battlefield than him. (Zad al-Ma’ad 3:90).
Just as the Prophet (PBUH) adorned himself with the fragrance of courage, he also inspired others to be brave. He taught his followers (Ummah) to seek refuge with Allah (SWT) from timidity and cowardice. The Prophet (PBUH) used to pray: “O Allah, I seek refuge in You from cowardice…” (Sahih al-Bukhari: 6367).
