An Example of Noble Character

agreed to return without performing Umrah and signed a peace treaty, all the companions—except for Abu Bakr— expressed dissatisfaction. It was only after strong insistence from the Prophet of Islam that they accepted it. Why was it that these same people willingly sacrificed their lives at Badr and Uhud, but found it so difficult to accept Hudaybiyyah? The reason is that at Badr and Uhud, the sacrifice was one of life, whereas at Hudaybiyyah, it was a sacrifice of dignity. History shows that while many people have sacrificed their lives, very few have been willing to sacrifice their pride and dignity. Giving one’s life often earns one the status of a hero, while sacrificing dignity can make one appear defeated. In giving up one’s life, one sees themselves moving toward glory. In giving up one’s dignity, one feels as though they have chosen defeat. The former is publicly respected; the latter is often misunderstood. That’s why sacrificing dignity is harder—and greater. And the greater the sacrifice, the greater the success. Supreme success is reserved for those willing to make the supreme sacrifice. The Prophet and his companions reached that level because they were willing to give up not just their lives, but their pride and dignity as well. So what was the unique power in the Hudaybiyyah approach that opened the doors to such success? At the time of the treaty in 6 AH, the Prophet had fewer than 1,500 followers. Less than two years later, in 8 AH, he marched on Makkah with 10,000. On the first journey, he was forced to turn