Dawah & iqra
February 4, 2025 at 12:24 PM
*The story of the River Nile*
During the time of Hazrat Umar ibn Khattab (RA) is a well-known historical event that demonstrates his leadership, faith, and reliance on Allah.
*The River Nile and the Egyptian Tradition*
When Amr ibn al-As (RA), a companion of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), conquered Egypt during Hazrat Umar’s caliphate, he became the governor of the region. At that time, the Egyptians had a pagan tradition related to the Nile River. Every year, they believed that to ensure the river's continuous flow, they had to sacrifice a young maiden by throwing her into the river as an offering.
Amr ibn al-As Seeks Advice
After Islam spread in Egypt, the people approached Amr ibn al-As (RA), explaining that if they did not follow the ritual, the Nile would stop flowing. Concerned about this un-Islamic practice, he refused to allow the sacrifice. However, as feared by the people, the Nile’s water level began to decrease, causing alarm. Fearing drought, Amr (RA) wrote to Hazrat Umar (RA), explaining the situation.
Hazrat Umar’s Letter to the Nile
Hazrat Umar (RA), known for his wisdom and strong faith in Allah, sent back a letter. Instead of giving in to the superstition, he wrote a message addressed directly to the River Nile and instructed Amr ibn al-As to throw it into the river. The letter read:
*"From the servant of Allah, Umar ibn al-Khattab, to the Nile of Egypt. If you flow by your own will, then we do not need you. But if you flow by the command of Allah, then we pray to Allah to keep you flowing."*
The Miracle of the Nile
When this letter was thrown into the Nile, the river, which had nearly dried up, miraculously began to flow again—without any sacrifice. From that year onward, the tradition of sacrificing a maiden was completely abolished, and the Nile continued to flow naturally.
*Lesson from the Story*
This incident highlights several key lessons:
*1. Tawheed (Oneness of Allah)*: Islam rejects superstitions and false beliefs, emphasizing that only Allah controls nature.
*2. Faith and Leadership*: Hazrat Umar (RA) showed unwavering faith in Allah, demonstrating how true leadership is based on trust in divine wisdom.
*3. Abolition of Pagan Practices:* Islam reformed societies by eliminating unjust and harmful traditions.
*4. Miracle of Faith*: This event strengthened the faith of new Muslim converts in Egypt, showing the power of Islamic teachings.
This story remains an inspiring example of how faith and wisdom can overcome ignorance and false beliefs.