Which one of the following is included amongst the Ushera-e- Mubhashera ?

The correct answer is Saad Bin Abi Waqas.

Hazrat Saad Bin Abi Waqas (RA) holds a distinguished position in Islamic history as one of the "Ashara Mubashshara," the ten companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who were explicitly given the glad tidings of Paradise in a single sitting. This collective group represents the pinnacle of early Islamic devotion, and among them, Saad Bin Abi Waqas was known for his unmatched bravery, his skill in archery, and his unwavering loyalty to the Prophet (PBUH).

Early Life and Conversion

Saad Bin Abi Waqas belonged to the Banu Zuhrah clan of the Quraysh tribe. He was a maternal uncle to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), a relationship the Prophet (PBUH) often acknowledged with great pride. His journey into Islam began at a very young age; he was only seventeen when he embraced the faith, making him the seventh person to accept Islam. This early conversion was not without trial. His mother, upon hearing of his new faith, attempted to force him back into polytheism through a hunger strike. In a famous display of resolve, Saad declared that even if she had a thousand souls and lost them one by one, he would not abandon his religion. This event is often cited as the context for the revelation of Quranic verses regarding obedience to parents except in matters of faith.

The Archer of Islam

In the annals of military history, Saad Bin Abi Waqas is immortalized as the first person to draw blood in the cause of Islam and the first to fire an arrow in defense of the faith. During the Battle of Uhud, his skill with the bow was so vital that the Prophet (PBUH) personally handed him arrows and famously said, "Shoot, O Sa’d! May my father and mother be sacrificed for you." This was a rare and profound honor, as the Prophet (PBUH) seldom used such phrasing for anyone else.

The Conqueror of Persia

While his early years were defined by his presence in the battles of Badr and Uhud, his most significant historical contribution came during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar (RA). Saad was appointed as the commander-in-chief of the Muslim army during the conquest of Persia. He led the Islamic forces in the monumental Battle of Qadisiyyah in 636 CE. This battle was a decisive turning point that led to the fall of the Sassanid Empire.

Following this victory, he oversaw the conquest of Ctesiphon (Madain), the Persian capital, and later founded the city of Kufa in modern-day Iraq, serving as its first governor. His leadership was characterized by a strict adherence to justice and the organizational principles laid down by the Caliph.

Later Years and Legacy

Hazrat Saad Bin Abi Waqas was the last of the Ashara Mubashshara to pass away, living long enough to see the Islamic state expand into a global power. He spent his final years in Al-Aqiq, near Medina. Despite his status as a legendary conqueror and a wealthy governor, he remained humble. It is narrated that on his deathbed, he asked to be buried in the old woolen cloak he had worn during the Battle of Badr, wanting to meet his Creator in the garment he wore while defending the faith in its infancy. He passed away in 55 AH (674 CE) and was buried in Jannat al-Baqi, leaving behind a legacy of military genius and spiritual excellence.