Martyrdom, or Shaheed in Islam, holds a deeply respected status that is honoured for its unique spiritual significance. In Islamic teachings, a martyr is someone who sacrifices their life for a noble cause, upholding justice, faith, and protection. This sacrifice isn’t just limited to those who lose their lives in battle. Several Hadiths illustrate a broader understanding of martyrdom, including individuals who die defending their property, those who succumb to illness, and women who pass away during childbirth. Through these teachings, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the boundless mercy and understanding of Allah, rewarding individuals whose intentions align with the principles of faith, courage, and selflessness. Each Hadith on martyrdom offers insight into the compassion of Islam and the honour granted to martyrs.
The Various Types of Martyrs in Islam
Hadith No. 2804
Source: Sunan Ibn Majah, Chapter 27, The Chapters on Jihad
Authority of Narration: Abu Hurairah
Translation (English)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once asked his companions, “What do you say among yourselves about the martyr?” The companions replied, “The one who is killed in the cause of Allah.” The Prophet responded, “If that were the case, the martyrs among my nation would be few. Whoever is killed in the cause of Allah is a martyr; whoever dies in the cause of Allah is a martyr; whoever dies of a stomach disease is a martyr; and whoever dies of the plague is a martyr.”
حدیث (Urdu)
شہید کے بارے میں کیا کہتے ہو؟ صحابہ کرام نے کہا، “جو اللہ کے راستے میں قتل ہو جائے۔” نبی اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا، “اگر یہ معاملہ ہوتا تو میری امت میں شہداء بہت کم ہوتے۔ جو شخص اللہ کے راستے میں قتل ہوتا ہے، وہ شہید ہے؛ جو اللہ کے راستے میں مرتا ہے، وہ شہید ہے؛ جو پیٹ کی بیماری سے مرتا ہے، وہ شہید ہے؛ اور جو طاعون میں مرتا ہے، وہ شہید ہے۔”
الحديث (Arabic)
“سَأَلَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ أَصْحَابَهُ: “مَاذَا تَقُولُونَ فِي الشَّهِيدِ؟” فَقَالُوا: “الَّذِي يُقْتَلُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللهِ”. فَقَالَ: “إِذَنْ الشُّهَدَاءُ مِنْ أُمَّتِي قَلِيلٌ. مَنْ يُقْتَلُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللهِ هُوَ شَهِيدٌ؛ مَنْ يَمُوتُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللهِ هُوَ شَهِيدٌ؛ مَنْ يَمُوتُ مِنْ مَرَضِ الْبَطْنِ هُوَ شَهِيدٌ؛ وَمَنْ يَمُوتُ مِنَ الطَّاعُونِ هُوَ شَهِيدٌ.””
Detailed Discussion on Important Aspects of This Hadith
This Hadith reveals the comprehensive view of martyrdom in Islam, extending beyond those who fall in battle. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) expands the definition, demonstrating Islam’s compassion and acknowledgement of human struggles and sacrifices. Key takeaways from this Hadith include:
Martyrdom Beyond Battle
The Prophet’s statement emphasizes that martyrdom includes those who endure intense suffering or challenges. This redefinition offers comfort and honour to individuals who might not die on a battlefield but face serious hardships in life or succumb to illnesses.
Illness as a Path to Martyrdom
Diseases such as stomach ailments and plagues are singled out, signifying the honour Allah places on those who suffer due to physical illnesses. By declaring such deaths as martyrdom, Islam extends its appreciation for the endurance and resilience people demonstrate when facing these trials.
The Importance of Intention
The Prophet’s words underscore that martyrdom is not solely defined by the cause of death but by the intention and faith behind a person’s struggles. Whether fighting in the cause of Allah or bearing suffering with patience and devotion, such lives are given a status of high honour.
Mercy in Islam’s Teachings
This Hadith highlights Allah’s boundless mercy, valuing the sacrifices and pains individuals go through in different aspects of life. By broadening the category of martyrdom, the Prophet provides hope and assurance that those who suffer in this world are rewarded in the next.
The Seven Categories of Martyrs Beyond the Battlefield
Hadith No. 36
Source: Imam Malik’s Muwatta, Chapter 16, Burials
Authority of Narration: Jabir ibn Atik
Translation (English)
“
Jabir ibn Atik narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) visited a companion, Abdullah ibn Thabit, who was on his deathbed. The Prophet comforted him and expressed sorrow, saying, “You are being taken from us, Abu’r-Rabi.” When the women began to cry, the Prophet advised them to hold back their mourning until the necessary time. The daughter of the dying man, Abdullah ibn Thabit, expressed her hope that her father would be considered a martyr for his readiness for battle. The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded by listing seven types of martyrdom beyond death in battle”
- Whoever dies by the plague
- Whoever drowns
- Whoever dies of pleurisy
- Whoever dies of a stomach disease
- Whoever dies by fire
- Whoever dies under a collapsing structure
- Any woman who dies during childbirth
حدیث (Urdu)
” حضرت جابر بن عطیک نے بیان کیا کہ رسول اللہ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے ایک صحابی، عبداللہ بن ثابت، کی عیادت کی جو کہ موت کی حالت میں تھے۔ نبی اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے انہیں تسلی دی اور فرمایا، “ابو الربیع! تم ہم سے جدا کیے جا رہے ہو۔” جب خواتین نے رونا شروع کیا تو نبی اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے ان سے کہا کہ ضروری وقت تک صبر کریں۔ عبداللہ بن ثابت کی بیٹی نے کہا کہ مجھے امید ہے کہ میرے والد کو شہید شمار کیا جائے گا، کیونکہ انہوں نے جنگ کی تیاری کی ہوئی تھی۔ نبی اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے شہادت کی سات اقسام کا ذکر فرمایا:”
- جو طاعون میں مر جائے
- جو ڈوب جائے
- جو پھیپھڑوں کے مرض میں مر جائے
- جو پیٹ کی بیماری سے مر جائے
- جو آگ میں مر جائے
- جو کسی عمارت کے گرنے سے مر جائے
- ہر عورت جو زچگی میں مر جائے
الحديث (Arabic)
“روى جابر بن عتيك أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم زار صحابيّاً، عبد الله بن ثابت، وكان في سكرات الموت. فواساه النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم وقال: “أبو الربيع! يؤخذ منك”. حين بكت النساء قال النبي: “اصبروا حتى يأتي الوقت المناسب”. فأعربت ابنة عبد الله عن أملها في أن يعد والدها من الشهداء لاستعداده للقتال، فرد النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم وأعلن سبع أنواع من الشهادة غير الموت في سبيل الله:”
- من يموت بالطاعون
- من يغرق
- من يموت بداء الرئة
- من يموت بداء البطن
- من يموت بالنار
- من يموت تحت بناء منهار
- المرأة التي تموت في الولادة
Detailed Discussion on Important Aspects of This Hadith
This Hadith highlights Islam’s compassion and respect for different forms of hardship and sacrifice. Each of these forms of martyrdom reflects a significant acknowledgement of human struggles. Key points from this Hadith include:
Recognition of Diverse Hardships as Martyrdom
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) listed several types of martyrdom beyond traditional combat. By naming these types, he emphasized that martyrs are not limited to warriors but include those who endure and die in various forms of hardship, giving immense hope to believers.
Childbirth as an Honorable Sacrifice
The inclusion of women who pass away during childbirth as martyrs elevates the status of mothers. This distinction underscores the sanctity and sacrifice inherent in bringing new life into the world, and Islam honours this sacrifice as equivalent to that of a soldier.
Natural Disasters and Sudden Deaths
Deaths caused by incidents like drowning, fire, or collapsing buildings are recognized as martyrdom, giving spiritual relief to families affected by these tragedies. The recognition of these sudden and tragic deaths demonstrates Islam’s inclusive approach to understanding human suffering and the reward for resilience.
Physical Suffering as a Path to Reward
The Hadith mentions several painful conditions, such as pleurisy (lung disease) and stomach diseases, as paths to martyrdom. These conditions often bring prolonged suffering, and Islam acknowledges this difficulty by promising that those who endure it with patience receive the reward of a martyr.
Comprehensive Definition of Martyrdom
This Hadith significantly broadens the scope of who can be considered a martyr, reaffirming that Allah values not only the warriors of faith but all individuals who confront hardships with resilience. It provides hope to all Muslims, reinforcing that Allah’s rewards are within reach of anyone who faces life’s challenges with sincerity and faith.
The Special Honor for Martyrs at Sea
Hadith No. 2778
Source: Sunan Ibn Majah, Chapter 27, The Chapters on Jihad
Authority of Narration: Sulaim bin Amr
Translation (English)
Abu Umamah narrated that he heard the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) say: “The martyr at sea is like two martyrs on land, and the one who suffers seasickness is like one who gets drenched in his blood on land. The time spent between one wave and the next is like a lifetime spent in obedience to Allah. Allah has appointed the Angel of Death to seize souls, except for the martyr at sea, for Allah Himself seizes their souls. He forgives the martyrs on land for all sins except debt, but He forgives the martyr at sea all his sins and his debt.”
حدیث (Urdu)
حضرت ابو امامہ بیان کرتے ہیں کہ میں نے رسول اللہ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم کو یہ فرماتے ہوئے سنا: “سمندر میں شہید ہونے والے کا مقام دو زمینی شہیدوں کے برابر ہے، اور جو سمندری بیماری میں مبتلا ہوتا ہے وہ خون میں لت پت ہونے والے کے برابر ہے۔ ایک موج سے دوسری موج کے درمیان وقت گزارنا اللہ کی فرمانبرداری میں عمر گزارنے کے برابر ہے۔ اللہ نے روح قبض کرنے کے لیے فرشتہ مقرر کیا ہے، مگر سمندر کے شہید کی روح خود اللہ قبض فرماتا ہے۔ زمینی شہداء کے لیے قرض معاف نہیں ہوتا مگر سمندر کے شہید کی قرض سمیت تمام خطائیں معاف ہوتی ہیں۔”
الحديث (Arabic)
عن أبي أمامة قال: سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: “شهيد البحر كشهيدين في البر، والمبتلى بدوار البحر كمن يغط في دمه على البر. والمدة بين موجتين كعمر في طاعة الله. وقد وكل الله ملك الموت بقبض الأرواح إلا الشهيد في البحر، فإن الله يقبض روحه بنفسه. يغفر للشهيد في البر كل ذنب إلا الدين، أما شهيد البحر فيغفر الله له جميع ذنوبه ودينه.”
Detailed Discussion on Important Aspects of This Hadith
This Hadith reveals a unique honour granted to those who die at sea in the path of Allah, highlighting specific distinctions and rewards for them. Key points from this Hadith include:
Double Reward for the Martyr at Sea
The Prophet (peace be upon him) declares that a martyr at sea receives a reward twice as great as a martyr on land. This reward underscores the immense challenges and uncertainties faced at sea, including treacherous waters, isolation, and dangerous weather. The double reward reflects Allah’s recognition of the greater risks faced by those undertaking journeys across seas.
Unique Value of Seasickness as a Sacrifice
Even experiencing seasickness is considered honourable, equating it with being soaked in one’s blood on land. Seasickness, a condition that can be both physically and mentally taxing, is acknowledged as a form of sacrifice, showing Islam’s appreciation of the effort and discomfort endured by sailors and travellers in the path of Allah.
Forgiveness of All Sins, Including Debt
Unlike land martyrs, who are forgiven for all sins except outstanding debts, the martyr at sea is granted forgiveness for all sins, including debts. This distinction highlights Allah’s mercy and may encourage those embarking on noble journeys over vast waters, especially in circumstances where repayment of debt may be beyond their control.
Allah’s Direct Role in Seizing Souls at Sea
The Hadith specifies that, unlike others whose souls are taken by the Angel of Death, the souls of martyrs at sea are taken directly by Allah. This unique act emphasizes the special status of martyrs at sea and shows Allah’s closeness to those who sacrifice their lives in challenging environments for noble causes.
Life at Sea as a Form of Continuous Obedience
The Prophet mentions that the time spent between waves is equivalent to a lifetime in obedience to Allah. This statement highlights the high spiritual value of time spent in the ocean, where each moment facing the waves with patience and trust in Allah becomes an act of worship. For those on the path of faith, every wave they encounter is a test and a testament to their steadfastness.
A Father’s Pre-Battle Sacrifice and the Permanence of Martyrdom
Hadith No. 434
Source: Sahih Bukhari, Chapter 23, Funerals (Al-Janaaiz)
Authority of Narration: Jabir ibn Abdullah
Translation (English)
Jabir narrated: “When the time of the Battle of Uhud approached, my father called me at night and said, ‘I think that I will be the first among the companions of the Prophet to be martyred. I do not leave anyone after me dearer to me than you, except for the Prophet himself. I owe some debt; you should repay it and treat your sisters well.’ In the morning, he was indeed the first to be martyred, and he was buried alongside another martyr. I could not bear to leave him with the other martyr, so I had him removed from the grave six months later. Astonishingly, he was in the same condition as the day he was buried, except for a slight change near his ear.”
حدیث (Urdu)
حضرت جابر بن عبداللہ روایت کرتے ہیں کہ جنگ اُحد کے موقع پر میرے والد نے مجھے رات کے وقت بلایا اور کہا، “مجھے لگتا ہے کہ میں نبی اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم کے ساتھیوں میں سے پہلا ہوں گا جو شہید ہوگا۔ میرے بعد تم سے زیادہ عزیز کوئی نہیں، سوائے نبی اکرم کے۔ میرے ذمے کچھ قرض ہے، تم اسے ادا کر دینا اور اپنی بہنوں کا خیال رکھنا۔” صبح کے وقت وہ واقعی پہلے شہید ہونے والوں میں سے تھے اور انہیں دوسرے شہید کے ساتھ دفن کیا گیا۔ چھ ماہ بعد، میں نے ان کی لاش نکالی تو وہ اسی حالت میں تھے جیسے دفن کیے گئے تھے، سوائے تھوڑی سی تبدیلی کے جو ان کے کان کے قریب تھی۔
الحديث (Arabic)
“عن جابر بن عبد الله قال: لما كان يوم أحد دعاني أبي ليلاً وقال: “إني لأرى أني سأكون أول أصحاب النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يستشهد، ولا أترك بعدي أعز عليّ منك إلا نفس رسول الله. وعليّ دين فاقضه، وأحسن إلى أخواتك”. فكان أول من استشهد صباحاً ودفن مع شهيد آخر، فلم أطق أن أتركه مع الآخر فنبشته بعد ستة أشهر فوجدته على حاله يوم دفن إلا تغيراً يسيراً في أذنه.”
Detailed Discussion on Important Aspects of This Hadith
This Hadith reflects the profound love, responsibility, and sacrifice that accompany the path of martyrdom, particularly when a family is involved. The exchange between Jabir and his father teaches timeless lessons about faith, duty, and the enduring honour of those who sacrifice their lives in the cause of Allah. Key points from this Hadith include:
Father’s Love and Responsibility
Jabir’s father showed immense love for his son, expressing his desire for Jabir to take care of the family after his death. By advising him to repay his debts and care for his sisters, Jabir’s father demonstrated the importance of fulfilling responsibilities, even in the face of potential martyrdom. His preparation before going to battle is a reminder that in Islam, family obligations and moral duties are deeply respected.
Foretelling of Martyrdom as a Sign of Faith
Jabir’s father anticipated his martyrdom with certainty, which shows his unwavering faith in Allah’s decree. This foreknowledge, rather than instilling fear, led him to prepare his son with instructions, embracing the path of martyrdom with complete submission and sincerity. His readiness to sacrifice his life for Allah’s cause reflects a deep level of devotion and courage.
The Martyr’s Body Preserved as a Miracle
When Jabir exhumed his father’s body six months after his burial, he was astonished to find it in the same condition, with minimal signs of decay. This preservation serves as a divine sign of Allah’s honour and mercy toward martyrs, showing that even in death, they are protected and elevated. This miraculous preservation is seen as a powerful reminder of the esteemed status Allah grants to those who die in His path.
Fulfillment of Final Requests as an Act of Loyalty
Jabir’s commitment to fulfilling his father’s last wishes, especially repaying his debts and caring for his sisters, reflects the importance of honouring a loved one’s final requests. This action underscores the value Islam places on loyalty to family, fulfilling promises, and managing debts responsibly, especially when dealing with the obligations left by the deceased.
Inspiration for Devotion Among the Companions
Jabir’s story serves as an inspiration for the companions and later generations to embrace sacrifice, strengthen familial bonds, and prioritize duty. The unique sacrifice made by Jabir’s father highlights the honourable position of martyrs and the spiritual reward waiting for those who protect and support their families while remaining steadfast in the faith.
True Martyrdom and the Importance of Sincere Intentions
Hadith No. 209
Source: Sahih Muslim, Chapter 1, Faith (Kitab Al Iman)
Authority of Narration: Umar bin Al-Khattab
Translation (English)
Umar narrated that on the day of Khaibar, some companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) came and said, “So-and-so is a martyr.” They then passed by another man and said, “So-and-so is also a martyr.” The Messenger of Allah remarked, “No, not so, for I have seen him in the Fire because of the garment he had stolen from the war booty.” Then, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Umar, go and announce to the people that only the believers shall enter Paradise.” Umar then went out and proclaimed, “Verily, only the believers will enter Paradise.”
حدیث (Urdu)
حضرت عمر بن خطاب روایت کرتے ہیں کہ خیبر کے دن چند صحابہ نے کہا، “فلاں شخص شہید ہے”۔ پھر وہ ایک اور شخص کے پاس سے گزرے اور کہا، “یہ بھی شہید ہے”۔ رسول اللہ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا، “نہیں، وہ ایسا نہیں ہے کیونکہ میں نے اسے جنگی مال میں سے ایک کپڑے کی چوری کے سبب آگ میں دیکھا۔” پھر آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا، “عمر، لوگوں کو بتا دو کہ صرف مومن ہی جنت میں جائیں گے۔” عمر باہر گئے اور اعلان کیا، “بیشک، صرف مومن ہی جنت میں جائیں گے۔”
الحديث (Arabic)
عن عمر بن الخطاب قال: لما كان يوم خيبر، جاء ناس من أصحاب النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فقالوا: فلان شهيد، ومروا برجل آخر فقالوا: فلان شهيد. فقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم: “كلا، إني رأيته في النار في بردة غلها.” ثم قال: “يا عمر، اذهب فناد في الناس: إنه لا يدخل الجنة إلا المؤمنون.” فخرج عمر فنادى: “إنه لا يدخل الجنة إلا المؤمنون.”
Detailed Discussion on Important Aspects of This Hadith
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of sincerity and honesty in one’s actions, particularly in matters related to martyrdom and reward. The conversation between the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions offers valuable lessons on the nature of true martyrdom, integrity, and faith. Key points from this Hadith include:
Intentions and Integrity Matter
This Hadith highlights that mere outward sacrifice in battle does not qualify someone as a true martyr. The Prophet (peace be upon him) clarified that one companion, though killed in battle, was seen as punishment due to dishonest behaviour (taking something from the spoils of war without permission). This incident underscores that genuine martyrdom and Allah’s reward depend not just on actions but also on the purity of intentions and integrity.
Martyrdom is Reserved for True Believers
When the Prophet instructed Umar to announce that only believers would enter Paradise, he reinforced the principle that true faith is essential for eternal reward. This teaching reminds believers that actions alone do not secure Paradise; unwavering faith and sincerity are fundamental. It shows that Allah’s criteria for reward include the depth of a person’s belief and character.
Prohibition of Misappropriation and Its Consequences
The punishment mentioned in this Hadith serves as a warning against any form of dishonesty or misappropriation of public or communal assets, even during times of war. Taking from the war booty without permission was a severe breach of trust, and its consequence—being barred from martyrdom’s reward—highlights the weight of this offence. This Hadith serves as a powerful reminder that Islam holds honesty and respect for others’ rights in high regard.
A Message to Future Generations
This incident is not only a warning but also a guide for later generations, emphasizing that neither wealth nor acts of courage compensate for a lack of sincerity. It encourages Muslims to continuously evaluate their intentions and actions to ensure they align with the teachings of Islam.
Strengthening Faith and Accountability
By publicly announcing that only believers enter Paradise, the Prophet and Umar reinforced the importance of accountability and faith among the companions and future Muslims. This declaration served as a reminder to all that sincerity, adherence to Islamic values, and avoidance of sin, especially in public matters, are essential for success in the Hereafter.
Conclusion
In Islam, the concept of martyrdom goes beyond the traditional battlefield; it extends into all aspects of life where one sacrifices for a noble cause, defending faith, family, justice, or personal dignity. Through these Hadiths, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that a martyr’s reward is not exclusive to those who die in combat. Whether defending one’s property, or family, or succumbing to diseases like the plague, each sacrifice is honoured as an act of profound devotion and courage. The emphasis on pure intentions, justice, and loyalty to Allah elevates these actions, showing that martyrdom is fundamentally about dedication to principles and faith.
These teachings remind Muslims that every struggle faced in righteousness, every selfless act to protect loved ones, and every hardship borne with patience brings spiritual reward. The diverse forms of martyrdom emphasize Islam’s compassion and its recognition of all kinds of sacrifice. By following these principles, believers not only gain a deeper understanding of Islamic values but also find purpose in standing against injustice, upholding truth, and protecting the vulnerable in society. In this way, martyrdom becomes a powerful inspiration, urging Muslims to live honourably, courageously, and faithfully in every circumstance.