When the Prophet Muhammad [PBUH] bit his own sister

 

When the Prophet Muhammad [PBUH] bit his own sister

Background
Shaima, whose full name was Shayma bint Al-Harith, was the daughter of Halima Saadia and the foster sister of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Halima Saadia was the woman who nursed Muhammad (PBUH) when he was a baby and he lived with her and her family in the desert for the first few years of his life.

The Battle of Hunain
The Battle of Hunain took place in 630 CE (8 AH) between the Muslims led by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the tribes of Hawazin and Thaqif. The battle occurred in the valley of Hunain, close to Mecca.

Shaima's Capture
During the battle, many members of the Hawazin tribe were captured, including women and children. Among those captured was Shaima. When she was brought before the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), she claimed to be his foster sister.

Identification
To prove her claim, Shaima showed the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a distinctive bite mark on her shoulder. This bite mark was from their childhood, when they used to play together. She told him that when he, the prophet Muhammad [PBUH] was a young kid,  he  had a bite on her shoulder, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) remembered the incident and recognized the mark, confirming that she was indeed his foster sister. It is also reported that tears rolled down upon his cheeks remembering those olden days.

Reaction and Release
Upon recognizing her, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed great kindness and respect towards Shaima. He honored her and offered her a choice: she could either stay with him, where she would be treated with the utmost care and respect or she could return to her tribe. Shaima chose to return to her tribe and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sent her back with many gifts and provisions.

Aftermath
The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) treatment of Shaima and the other captives had a profound impact. His compassion and generosity helped to win the hearts of many, leading to further acceptance and conversion to Islam among the previously hostile tribes.

This story highlights the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) deep sense of familial loyalty, compassion and the humane treatment of captives which were hallmarks of his character and leadership.

---------------------------------

 Share for sawab