Prophets relation with Jews

Prophet (PBUH) relation with Jews

When Holy Prophet (PBUH) arrived at Medina, he first treated all groups of Medinite society equally including Muslims, non-Muslims , Arabs and Jews. Prophet (PBUH) realized that the foundation of Islamic empire must be strong so, he negotiated with the Jewish tribes, as they were the dominant power in Medina. Finally they reached upon an agreement. It granted equal rights to Jews and freedom to carry out their religious practices openly. It stated that both parties must protect Medina against all enemies. This treaty was called ‘Charter of Medina’ and established Prophet (PBUH) as the leader of Medina. Gradually, the Jews distanced themselves from Prophet (PBUH). They mocked him on revelations he used to receive and marked him as a false prophet. At the time of the battle of Badr, the Jews did not help the Muslims despite the clause mentioned in Charter of Medina.

The Jewish tribes that proved to be the most problematic were Banu Qainuqa, Banu Quraiyzah and Banu Nazir. Banu Qainuqa was the first tribe to break the treaty by fighting with Muslims in the periods between Battle of Badr and Battle of Uhad. Attempts made by Prophet (PBUH) to come to terms with them were unsuccessful. Therefore, a siege was enforced against the Banu Qainuqa tribe. As a result of which they were expelled from Medina in 2 A.H. A year later, Ka’ab, the Jewish leader was executed for his activities against Medina and interests of Muslims.

In the 4th year of Hijrat, the Banu Nazir plotted to murder Prophet (PBUH) by rolling a stone over him, while he stood at the entrance of their stronghold. At the same time, with the persuasion of Quraish, they rose against the Muslims. Prophet (PBUH) sent them a message to leave Medina, within ten days but they rejected the expulsion and captivated themselves in their fortresses. As a result of it, Prophet (PBUH) led an army against them and laid siege to their forts. After a siege of two weeks, the Jews of Banu Nazir surrendered and were exiled from Medina.

The third tribe was Banu Qurayizah, which openly joined Quraish during Battle of Trench. They helped Quraish to cross the trench by telling an alternative pathway and kept on disturbing Prophet (PBUH) and others during the war period. They were punished after the battle through their exile from Medina but they refused. So, Prophet (PBUH) besieged their settlements. Finally, they surrendered to him and agreed to abide by the decision of the leader of Aus tribe, Saad bin Muaad, who decided their fate according to Jewish law of the Old Testament. Their men were slain, women and children were sold as prisoners and their lands and properties were divided among the Muslims in 5th A.H.