The Companions of the Prophet

consolidating its roots in the ground and stretching its branches out in the air. They would grow slowly in natural stages, finally reaching a peak. Their splendid development would cause gratification to men of faith and frustration to enemies. The Companions of the Prophet were chosen to fulfil Almighty God’s wish that Islam should thrive like a tree. The fact that God wished it did not mean the task would be easy. They were required to eschew the easy, quick way of doing things and follow the path of patience. They had to bury their desires and personal preferences, always giving precedence to the will of God. The Companions had to give everything to bring the tree of Islam into existence, not caring for any return in this world. They had to involve themselves unconditionally in God’s scheme. As a result of their effort, Islam grew into a permanently flourishing garden that no power in the world could destroy.