Refraining from a Bad Reputation

suspicion and rumours in Madinah. (Ibn Hisham, Al-Sirah, Vol. 2, p. 298) Details of this incident can be found in the books of Seerah (Biography of the Prophet) and Tafsirs (Commentary of the Quran). Referring to this event, the Quran states: “He who took the greater part in it shall have a terrible punishment.” (24:11) The person referred to as deserving ‘the greatest punishment’ in this verse is Abdullah bin Ubayy. However, he did not receive punishment in this world. Instead, his case was left to be judged by God in the Hereafter. Eventually, he died a natural death in Madinah. Another story goes like this: While returning from the battle of Bani Al-Mustaliq (5 AH), a group of Muslims gathered to get water from a single source. During that time, a Muhajir and an Ansar got into a fight. The Muhajir called his people, “O people of migrants!” and the Ansari called out, “O people of Ansar!” The situation escalated to the point where the two groups confronted each other. The Prophet of Islam had to intervene and end the conflict. Abdullah bin Ubayy was already displeased with the arrival of the Muslims from Makkah and the Prophet seeking refuge in Madinah. He took advantage of the incident and delivered a speech to provoke his tribe’s people. In his remarks, he said, “Raise your dog and make it strong so that it will bite you. I swear by God if we return to Madinah,