Inna Ma’al Usre Yusra
As per the custom of that time, the Mushrikeen visited the Ka’abah for Hajj. On one such instance, Qais too joined the delegation. The Prophet (sa) despite being in the minority would promote his religion to the strangers. He would make efforts and take out time to meet the people that had come to Makkah for Hajj.
He met Qais and presented him Islam. Qais attentively listened to the Prophet (sa) and acknowledged that what he was being presented was a glorious religion. He asked for time to contemplate conversion. The Prophet (sa) desired that the husband of a devoted religious woman embraced Islam as well, therefore, he prolonged his dialogue with Qais. Qais, however kept asking for more time to consider. The Prophet (sa), then asked Qais about his unkind treatment towards his wife. He instructed him to fear Allah (swt) and to promise him that he will never say anything to his distressed wife. Qais promised that he would do as the Prophet (sa) instructed and would never again be cruel to his wife.
When Qais returned Madina, he informed Hawa (ra) about his meeting with the Messenger of Allah (sa), and his promise to him. He assured her that from now onwards he would never torment her. Hawa (ra) was relieved to hear this.
“Verily, along with every hardship is relief,” (Qur’an 94: 6).
Hawa (ra) could now freely practice her religion. She openly declared her faith because she had no one to fear. After a little time had passed, the Prophet (sa), being a true leader and well-wisher, asked about Hawa (ra) and her husband’s treatment. He was informed that she now lived in peace.
People teased Qais about his wife’s conversion. He informed them of his promise to the Prophet (sa) and his will to honour it.
Qais had honoured his promise to the Prophet (sa). However, he kept waiting for the right time to embrace Islam, and missed his chance. Qais was killed as an idolater. He saved Hawa’s life in this world and the hereafter, but could not save his own hereafter.
Lessons to draw: Do not delay the opportunity to do good. You might miss the chance. Because Hawa (ra) only depended upon Allah (swt), He helped her in a miraculous way. With every difficulty there is ease, strengthen your faith in Allah (swt).
Life as a Widow
When the Prophet (sa) migrated to Madina, Hawa (ra) attended his gatherings, learnt the religion and taught it to her son Thabith ibn Qais. She strove hard in religion and attained the status of being a hadith narrator. This is how Allah (swt) honours those who are willing to remain steadfast in their trials, and give precedence to religion over anything in the world.
May Allah (swt) also make us of them, ameen.
Lessons to draw: When you have taken the step to draw closer to Allah (swt), He will test you. He will put you through trials to separate the wheat from the chaff. How truly dedicated and honest are you in your service and commitment to Islam? Be brave. Don’t let Shaitan weaken your resolve.
(Adapted from the book: Seerat e Sahabiyat k Darakshan Pehlu by and the lectures of Dr. Farhat Hashmi: Seerat e Sahabiyat)
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