The Battle of Trench is also known by other names like the Battle of Khandaq, the Battle of Ahzab, the Battle of Ditch, and the Battle of Confederates. After the battle of Uhud, the Muslims realized that now they have to work on their military forces and combat knowledge so that they can compete with the opponents and defeat them in their evil plans.

The battle of Trench is called by this name because in this battle Muslims of Madina dug a trench on the northern side of the Medina to protect themselves from the attack of enemies.

This battle took place in the month of Shawwal in 627 AD. It was fought among 3000 Muslim Soldiers and 10,000 soldiers of the disbeliever’s army under the leadership of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and Abu Sufiyan respectively.

SUMMARY OF THE BATTLE OF TRENCH

The Quraysh initiated the battle because they were scared of the progress and expansion of Islam. They were worried that with the increasing number of Muslims and acceptance of Islam among the people of Arabs, they will have to face an economic and financial crisis. Thus, they decided to strike the final blow against the Muslims and planned to kill the Holy Prophet (PBUH) so that Muslim become weak.

When the Holy Prophet (PBUH) found out that the Quraysh and the Jews are planning against the Muslims, he discussed with his companions to strategize how to stop and defeat them from attacking Madina. Hazrat Salman Al Farsi (RA) who was the companion of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) suggested digging a trench on the northern side of the Madina, to stop them from attacking at once and Muslims to fight behind the trench.

His suggestion was appreciated and the Holy Prophet (PBUH) divided the Muslims into groups of ten and commanded them to begin the digging of the trench. The act of digging the trench during the Battle of Trench proved to be a crucial strategic move that greatly aided the Muslims.

The trench served as a physical barrier, making it difficult for the coalition forces to breach the city’s defenses. It effectively neutralized the enemy’s cavalry, as they were unable to traverse the trench and launch direct attacks.

This defensive measure forced the coalition to resort to a prolonged siege, which provided the Muslims with valuable time to strategize, gather their resources, and maintain their defensive positions. The trench played a vital role in protecting the Muslim community and ultimately contributed to their success in repelling the enemy forces.

MIRACLES HAPPENED IN THE BATTLE OF TRENCH

The Battle of the Trench is famously known for the wisdom of Muslims and their undeniable strength, willpower, intelligence, and trust in Allah (SWT). Other than that, a few miracles also happened during the battle of Trench, which makes this battle unforgettable in the history of Islam

1.      Miracle of the Trench

One of the most astounding miracles during the Battle of the Trench was the divine assistance the Muslims received in digging the trench. It was a difficult task because of its vast size and the Muslims’ meagre resources. However, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used a pickaxe to smash a big boulder that was blocking their path, sending sparks flying. Each flame stood for an army that would defend the Muslims against the adversary. This amazing occurrence gave the Muslims new resolve and energy.

2.      Miracle of the Storm

As the enemy forces camped outside the trench, a severe storm with strong winds and heavy rain struck their camp. The storm was so intense that it caused their tents to collapse, extinguished their fires, and disrupted their morale. Meanwhile, the Muslims found solace in their secure position behind the trench, sheltered from the chaotic elements. The storm, which affected only the enemy forces, was seen as a miraculous intervention that favored the Muslims and demoralized their opponents.

3.      Miracle of the Angels

During the Battle of the Trench, the Muslims faced a critical moment when the enemy breached a vulnerable section of the Trench. However, at that precise moment, a group of angels appeared to reinforce the Muslims’ defence. Their presence not only caused panic among the enemy ranks but also boosted the willpower of the Muslims. The miraculous appearance of the angels turned the tide of the battle and frightened the enemies.

FACTS ABOUT THE BATTLE OF TRENCH

• The Battle of Trench lasted for a period of 30 days and involved a siege on Madinah carried out by Jewish and Arab tribes.
• Digging the trench in itself was a remarkable act done by the Muslims as the Muslims had very limited sources but even with limited sources they dug the trench which was 5.5 km long, 9 meters wide, and 4.5 meters deep. The digging of the trench played a crucial role in protecting the Muslims from the attack of the enemies.
• During the battle, Hazrat Ali (RA) with his bravery and immense strength killed the prominent commander of opponent Amr.

• An elderly man Nauman Ibn Masood came to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) secretly and informed that he has now converted to Islam. The Holy Prophet told him to create misunderstandings between the Jews and Quraysh for each other. The man did so, which created mistrust among Jews and Quraysh.
• When the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used a pickaxe to break a rock, sparks flew, signifying the Muslim nation’s defending armies.
• At Masjid Fatah, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) prayed to ALLAH (SWT) for Muslim victory. To which ALLAH (SWT) sent heavy rain and storm
• The storm and heavy rain struck the camp of enemies and weakened their morale whereas the Muslim camps were intact and the storm did not cause any harm to the Muslims.
• The Quraysh and Banu Qurayza tribe was astonished after watching the outcomes of the storms. They were hopeless and left the battlefield.
• The appearance of the angels helping the Muslims lower Muslim adversaries’ spirits and strengthen the Muslim faith
• The power of faith, teamwork, and divine intervention in overcoming obstacles was highlighted by The Battle of the Trench.
• It provides motivation and a constant reminder of Allah’s unfailing support.
• The conflict served as a reminder of the value of fortification, strategic planning, and trust in the face of difficulty.

WHO WON THE BATTLE OF TRENCH?

The Muslims who were much lesser in number as compared to the enemies of Islam still won the battle. It was because of their wisdom, intelligence, unity, and their unbreakable faith in ALLAH (SWT) that they defeated the enemies and raised the flag of Islam.

CONCLUSION

The Battle of the Trench stands as a testament to the miracles that occurred during this historic event. The divine interventions, including the Miracle of the Trench, the Storm, and the Angels, played pivotal roles in ensuring the defense and ultimate victory of the Muslims. The battle serves as a timeless lesson, teaching us the power of faith, perseverance, and divine intervention in the face of overwhelming odds.

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