MCQ Detailed View

The Battle of Mu’tah (غزوة مؤتة) was fought in 8 Hijri (629 CE) during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). It was one of the major expeditions outside the Arabian Peninsula and took place near the village of Mu’tah in the region of modern-day Jordan. The battle was a significant confrontation between the Muslim army and the forces of the Byzantine Empire and its Arab Christian allies.

The cause of the battle stemmed from the murder of the Prophet’s (SAW) envoy, Harith bin Umair Al-Azdi (RA), who was sent to the ruler of Busra with a message. This killing was a violation of diplomatic norms and considered a direct act of aggression. In response, the Prophet (SAW) dispatched an army of around 3,000 Muslim soldiers — the largest Muslim force at that time — under the leadership of three appointed commanders in succession: Hazrat Zaid ibn Haritha (RA), Hazrat Ja’far ibn Abi Talib (RA), and Hazrat Abdullah ibn Rawaha (RA). All three were martyred in the battle.

After their martyrdom, leadership was taken by Khalid ibn al-Walid (RA), who managed to retreat the army safely back to Madinah. This earned him the title “Saifullah” (Sword of Allah) from the Prophet (SAW).

Key Facts:

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  Ghazwah Mu’tah was fought in 8 Hijri / 629 CE.

  
  


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  It took place near Mu’tah in present-day Jordan.

  
  


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  It was triggered by the killing of the Prophet’s envoy, Harith bin Umair.

  
  


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  The Muslim army numbered about 3,000 soldiers.

  
  


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  Key commanders: Zaid ibn Haritha (RA), Ja’far ibn Abi Talib (RA), Abdullah ibn Rawaha (RA).

  
  


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  All three were martyred during the battle.

  
  


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  Khalid ibn al-Walid (RA) successfully led the retreat and was titled “Saifullah.”

  
  


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  This was the first confrontation with the Byzantine forces.

  
  


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  Though not a victory, the battle was a pivotal military experience for the Muslims.

  
  


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  It showed the courage and commitment of the early Muslim army.