The lessons learnt from the treaty of Hudaybiyyah are still very much relevant on the international political stage
Momina Khan
During the early Islamic period, diplomatic missions, treaties and dispute resolution mechanisms not only played a crucial role in the spread of Islam but also laid down a set of precedents which promoted peaceful coexistence. The treaty of Hudaybiyyah is one such landmark which highlights Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) wisdom and resilience which contributed towards lasting peace through sustainable resolution. The Scottish historian Montgomery Watt states, “The treaty of Hudaybiyyah is a clear example of Muhammad’s preference for peaceful negotiations over warfare. His willingness to engage in treaties with former adversaries shows a remarkable dedication to peace.” The prophet’s pragmatic approach characterized by strategic thinking, open communication and strong empathy played a crucial role in effectively conducting relations with various tribes of Arabia and later on with other states.
When Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was still in exile in Medina, he called on his followers to offer pilgrimage in the holy land of Mecca. The Quraysh leaders who were in absolute control of Mecca did not allow the Muslims to enter. Although this clearly frustrated the majority of Muslims, but the prophet upheld the principle of tolerance and despite facing injustice, his philosophy was to engage in peaceful negotiations, as emphasized in the Holy Quran, “The servants of the most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth humbly and when the ignorant address them harshly, they say words of peace.” Quran25:63
Amidst all rumors regarding the Quraysh’s preparation of a possible war, the prophet pbuh sent the future caliph Uthman bin Affan to convey the prophet’s message of peace. Meanwhile unverified information of the killing of his close aid Uthman became widespread which soon turned out to be false and later on Quraysh sent their emissary, Suhayl ibn e Amr for a possible settlement. Eventually the representatives of both parties met outside Mecca at a place called Hudaybiyyah and reached a settlement after successful negotiations. Thus, the historic treaty of Hudaybiyyah was drawn up that helped shape the political landscape of Arabia by providing a structured way for both the Quraysh of Mecca and Muslims to collaborate and foster peaceful relations.
The main terms and conditions of the treaty of Hudaybiyyah stated that:
- Both parties agreed upon armistice and affirmed peace for a period of 10 years.
- Whosoever wished to join Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) or enter into any agreement with him would be free to do so and likewise it was the same with regards to the Quraysh.
III. If anyone from Mecca went to Medina without the permission of their respective guardian, the Muslims were bound to return them but on the contrary if any Muslim went to Mecca, they would not be returned.
- Muslims would return to Medina this year without performing the pilgrimage but would come back next year to Mecca for the purpose of offering pilgrimage.
Some of the prophet’s close companions were clearly frustrated with regards to the terms and conditions of the truce as they considered it as a humiliating arrangement, but the prophet (pbuh) focused on the implementation of the treaty, ultimately proving that timely adjustments and compromises had the potential of yielding bountiful strategic victories. He navigated a rather uncomfortable and complex situation through sheer psychological resilience ensuring lasting peace, which was absolutely essential for the Muslims during the early period of Islam.
After the treaty was written and finalized, the converts who turned up to join the Muslims were returned to the Quraysh. Hence, the Muslims honored the treaty, which is considered a fundamental principle of Islam. As the Quran says, “And fulfil the covenant. Indeed, the covenant is ever questioned.” Quran 17:34
The treaty of Hudaybiyyah not only paved way for the expansion and development of Medina but also allowed the prophet to successfully build up his power base. Apart from the new conquests he effectively formed powerful alliances with other influential tribes. The political foresight of the prophet favored the Muslims significantly as they gained the status of a political entity. Before the signing of the treaty, the Muslims were merely considered as a group of exiles living in Medina. The blockage of Muslims coming for the pilgrimage was a political blunder by the Meccans as it tilted the public opinion in favor of the Muslims. During the period following the treaty, the conquest of Khaybar which is considered a beacon of heroic might, further strengthened the Muslims of Medina and brought a marked change in the political scenario. This well deserving victory strongly influenced the local Bedouin tribes who thereby swore allegiance to the prophet, finally converting to Islam.
The prophet’s strategic vision which was deeply rooted in an astute understanding derived from the divine insights, helped him mitigate the complex crisis situation. The period of armistice aided the unique opportunity for the propagation of Islam alongside addressing the daunting challenges with respect to the rival clans.
When the prophet alongside his companions went to perform the pilgrimage the following year, they appeared strong, steadfast and elegant while performing the rituals of the pilgrimage which left the Quraysh completely astounded. At the same time the Muslims also seized the opportunity of peaceful interactions with the local Meccans, thereby mobilizing support for social change and peace building.
The treaty of Hudaybiyyah lasted for approximately two years because one of its vital clause was breached by the Meccans, eventually paving way for the conquest of Mecca. Despite the breach of the covenant by the Meccans, the prophet exhibited inspiring acts of forgiveness and made the Quraysh of Mecca surrender without shedding blood in vain.
The lessons learnt from the treaty of Hudaybiyyah are still very much relevant on the international political stage. Today, in the modern world where international diplomacy is focused on flexing muscles to secure interests, Islam’s alternative ethical diplomatic approach to effectively implement lasting peace through strategic patience and tireless negotiation offers a valuable exemplar for the navigation of intricate global issues.
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The writer is a freelance journalist focusing on politics, international relations and tourism.
