The name of the camel which the Holy Prophet (SAW) was riding during the migration (Hijrah) to Madina was Qaswa (Al-Qaswa).
The history of Qaswa begins shortly before the historic migration from Makkah to Madina. When the permission for migration was...
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The name of the camel which the Holy Prophet (SAW) was riding during the migration (Hijrah) to Madina was Qaswa (Al-Qaswa).
The history of Qaswa begins shortly before the historic migration from Makkah to Madina. When the permission for migration was granted by Allah, Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) had prepared two camels for the journey. He offered one to the Prophet (SAW) as a gift, but the Prophet (SAW), demonstrating his principle of self-reliance, insisted on paying the price for the animal. This she-camel, Qaswa, was purchased from the tribe of Banu Qushayr and would go on to become one of the most famous animals in human history.
The Journey of Hijrah
In the year 622 CE, Qaswa carried the Prophet (SAW) across the scorching and treacherous terrain of the Arabian Desert. The journey was fraught with danger, as the leaders of the Quraysh had placed a massive bounty on the Prophet (SAW). Qaswa proved to be an exceptionally strong and resilient animal, navigating the secret paths through the mountains to avoid the main caravan routes.
The Divine Guidance in Madina
Perhaps the most famous incident involving Qaswa occurred upon the arrival in Yathrib (later named Madina). As the Prophet (SAW) entered the city, the people of the Ansar lined the streets, each family pleading for the honor of hosting the Messenger of Allah. They reached for the camel's reins, hoping to lead her to their homes. The Prophet (SAW) requested them to leave the camel alone, stating that she was "commanded by Allah."
Qaswa continued walking through the city until she reached a large open plot belonging to two orphan brothers, Sahl and Suhayl. She knelt down, then stood up and walked a short distance, only to return to the original spot and kneel again. This divine sign determined the location where the Masjid-an-Nabawi (the Prophet's Mosque) would be built and where the Prophet (SAW) would temporarily reside at the house of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari (RA).
Presence in Major Events
Qaswa was not merely a means of transport for a single journey; she was present during the most pivotal moments of the early Islamic state. She was the mount the Prophet (SAW) rode during the Conquest of Makkah in 630 CE. As the Prophet (SAW) entered his hometown in a state of great humility, he was seated upon Qaswa.
Furthermore, during the Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat-ul-Wida), the Prophet (SAW) delivered his historic sermon while seated on her back at the plain of Arafat. Her height and steadiness allowed the massive crowd to see and hear the Prophet (SAW) as he outlined the fundamental rights and duties of Muslims for all time.
Characteristics and Legacy
Qaswa was known for her incredible speed. In fact, it is recorded that she was rarely, if ever, overtaken in a race. However, later in her life, a Bedouin’s camel once outpaced her. When the companions felt saddened by this, the Prophet (SAW) used the moment as a lesson in humility, explaining that it is Allah’s way that nothing in this world is raised high except that He eventually lowers it.
After the passing of the Prophet (SAW), it is said that Qaswa was so overcome with grief that she stopped eating and drinking, eventually passing away shortly after him. Her story remains a testament to the loyalty and the subtle ways in which the natural world played a role in the mission of Islam.
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