Here stands Jafar Bin Abi Taleb Mosque a testament to a revered figure in Islamic history. This mosque is dedicated to Jafar ibn Abi Talib. He was a cousin of Prophet Muhammad. He was also the elder brother of Ali.
Let’s delve into the story of Jafar. He was not just a relative of the Prophet. He was a man of great courage and conviction. Jafar embraced Islam early. He stood firm in his faith despite facing persecution in Mecca.
In 616 AD when the Muslims faced increasing hostility, Jafar led a group in the second migration to Abyssinia seeking protection. The Negus was the King of Abyssinia. The Quraysh sent delegates to persuade the Negus to expel the Muslims. Jafar eloquently defended the Muslim community. He spoke of their beliefs and values. His words deeply moved the Negus. The Negus refused to hand the Muslims back to their persecutors.
Jafar and his family remained in Abyssinia for twelve years. They lived in peace and security. He returned to Medina in 628. This was a time when the Muslim community was gaining strength.
Prophet Muhammad was in Khaybar. Jafar hastened to join him. The Prophet greeted Jafar warmly. He famously said that he did not know which event made him happier the arrival of Jafar or the conquest of Khaybar.
Jafar was known for his generosity. He was especially kind to the poor. Abu Hurairah recalled Jafar’s acts of charity in Medina. Jafar would take the poor to his home. He offered them whatever was available.
In September 629, the Battle of Mu’tah took place. Prophet Muhammad mobilized an army to confront Byzantine forces. Jafar was appointed as one of the commanders. The Muslim army faced a much larger Byzantine force. The Prophet instructed that if Jafar was killed, Zaid ibn Harithah would take command. If Zaid was killed, Abdullah ibn Rawaha would take his place.
During the battle, Jafar fought bravely. He spurred his horse deep into the enemy ranks. He fought valiantly until both his arms were cut off. Jafar was eventually killed. His body bore seventy-two scars. These were from sword strikes and spear wounds.
When Prophet Muhammad received news of Jafar’s death, he wept. He prayed for Jafar’s soul. The Prophet reported that the angel Jibril consoled him. Jibril said that God had given Jafar wings in place of his arms. Jafar could fly with them in Paradise. This earned Jafar the name Jafar al-Tayyar meaning Jafar the Flyer.
Jafar’s wife Asma recalled the Prophet’s visit after his martyrdom. The Prophet embraced Jafar’s children. Tears welled up in his eyes. He told Asma that Jafar had been martyred. He also told her not to grieve excessively. God had given Jafar wings to fly in Paradise. The Prophet instructed his family to prepare food for Jafar’s household. They were preoccupied with grief.
The Maqam Jafr ibn Abi Talib in Jordan was built in 700-799 AD. It stands as a shrine to his memory. Jafar’s tomb is a place of pilgrimage and reflection. It reminds us of his unwavering faith. It reminds us of his courage and sacrifice.
Remember Jafar Bin Abi Taleb as more than a name. Remember him as a symbol of devotion and sacrifice. He is an inspiration to Muslims worldwide. His legacy lives on through this mosque. It stands as a beacon of faith and remembrance.