Bilal ibn Rabah (RA), an Ethiopian slave in Makkah, was among the earliest converts to Islam. His unwavering belief in Allah's oneness (Tawheed) made him a target of brutal torture by his master, Umayyah ibn Khalaf.
Day after day, Bilal was dragged through the streets, placed under scorching stones, and beaten, yet his lips uttered only one word: "Ahad, Ahad" (One, One). His faith inspired the Muslims of that time and continues to inspire us today.
Bilal's suffering came to an end when Abu Bakr (RA) purchased his freedom. Later, Bilal was honored by the Prophet ﷺ as the first Mu'azzin of Islam. His voice would echo the call to prayer from Masjid an-Nabawi, reminding believers of their duty to Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ once told Bilal: "O Bilal, I heard your footsteps in Paradise" (Bukhari). This was a result of his consistent prayers and steadfastness in faith.
Bilal teaches us that faith requires sacrifice and perseverance. Even in hardship, he clung to the truth.
Practical lesson: Stand firm in your beliefs even when pressured by society. Strength in Tawheed brings ultimate honor before Allah, both in this world and the Hereafter.