Strength in Humility: The Prophet’s Triumphant Umrah
In a powerful khutbah, Dr. Khaled Al-Houli brings to life one of the most remarkable moments in the seerah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his return to Makkah to perform Umrah after the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. This was not a conquest but a peaceful assertion of faith, dignity, and divine promise.
Labbayk from the Valley to the Sacred House
As Dr. Al-Houli recounts, the Prophet ﷺ began chanting the talbiyah from the moment he left Dhul-Hulayfah. The echoes of “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk” filled the valleys and deserts as the believers approached Makkah. Even the stones and trees bore witness to the sound of submission to the One God. The Prophet arrived with strength, riding his camel while Abdullah ibn Rawahah led it, reciting poetry that declared the truth of the Prophet’s mission. When Umar expressed concern over the use of poetry in such a moment, the Prophet ﷺ responded that the message was more powerful than arrows. This moment showed that faith can be both humble and bold, both spiritual and firm.
A Public Message of Confidence
Despite the agreement to enter Makkah peacefully, Quraysh grew anxious. Rumors spread that the Muslims had been weakened by the fever of Yathrib. The Prophet ﷺ responded with wisdom and strength. He instructed the companions to uncover their shoulders and walk briskly during the first three circuits of Tawaf. This demonstration of energy and vitality silenced Quraysh’s doubts. They saw with their own eyes that the Muslims were strong and full of life. Dr. Al-Houli reflects on this act as a lesson in using strategic appearance to convey strength without arrogance. It was not war. It was dignity. It was not aggression. It was a message that Islam stands firm and will not be pushed aside.
Prayers That Shook Makkah
For three days, the Prophet ﷺ prayed his obligatory prayers inside the Sacred Mosque. For the first time, Makkah witnessed the Messenger of Allah leading the believers in open worship. His voice reciting “Ameen” echoed through the Kaaba. The atmosphere changed. The people of Makkah began to feel the shift in spiritual and social authority. Dr. Al-Houli notes how powerful this moment was. Even without a sword raised, hearts were shaken. Khalid ibn Al-Walid, one of Quraysh’s most capable warriors, admitted that only a few weak men remained resistant to the truth. Not long after, he accepted Islam, followed by Amr ibn Al-As and Uthman ibn Talha.
A New Reality for Quraysh and Arabia
The Umrah of al-Qada’ was more than a fulfillment of a treaty. It was a declaration that Islam had arrived and would not be turned back. Quraysh’s influence began to fade as key figures embraced Islam. Dr. Al-Houli highlights that this moment was a turning point not just politically but spiritually. It showed that truth, when carried with patience, resilience, and honor, eventually prevails. The Prophet ﷺ left Makkah after three days as agreed, but he left behind a message that could not be ignored. Islam was no longer a small voice in the desert. It was now echoing through the heart of Arabia.
The Power of Faith and Strategy
Dr. Khaled Al-Houli concludes his khutbah with a reminder that Allah alone manages all affairs. The Prophet ﷺ followed divine revelation, not political calculation. As believers, we are commanded to obey Allah, not to chase outcomes. It is through submission to the Divine will and not through force or cleverness that victory comes. The story of this Umrah is a reminder that strength lies in principled conduct. That even in peace, there is power. And that Allah always fulfills His promise.
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