The Ashra Mubashra were special friends of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who he promised would go to heaven. Rasoolullah (SAW) told them this while they were alive. These were the people who always supported the Prophet Muhammad through thick and thin. They sacrificed everything for the success of Islam.
The Islamic prophet, Muhammad (s.a.w.), specified ten of his companions who were promised paradise. The companions named in this hadith are referred to as “The Ten With Glad Tidings of Paradise”. The hadith is collected in two of the six books of the Kutub al-Sittah: the Jamiʿ at-Tirmidhi and the Sunan Abu Dawood.
Ahadees
The version of the hadith collected in the Jamiʿ at-Tirmidhi goes as follows:
Narrated ‘Abdur-Rahman bin ‘Awf:
Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Abu Bakr is in Paradise, ‘Umar is in Paradise, ‘Uthman is in Paradise, ‘Ali is in Paradise, Talhah is in Paradise, Az-Zubair is in Paradise, ‘Abdur-Rahman bin ‘Awf is in Paradise, Sa’d bin Abi Waqqas is in Paradise, Sa’eed bin Zaid is in Paradise, and Abu ‘Ubaidah bin Al-Jarrah is in Paradise.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3747: Book 49, Hadith 144)
Narrated ‘Abdullah bin Zalim Al-Mazini:
Sa’eed bin Zaid bin ‘Amr bin Nufail said: “I bear witness for nine people, that they are in Paradise, and if I were to bear witness for a tenth, I would not be sinful.” It was said: “How is that?” He said: “We were with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) at (mount) Hira when he said, ‘Be firm, Hira! There is not upon you any but a Prophet, or a Siddiq, or a martyr.” It was said: “And who were they?” He said: “The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), Abu Bakr, ‘Umar, ‘Uthman, ‘Ali, Talhah, Az-Zubair, Sa’d, and ‘Abdur-Rahman bin ‘Awf.” It was said: “And who is the tenth?” He said: “Me.”
(Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3757: Book 49, Hadith 154)
“Not equal among you are those who spent (freely) and fought before the Victory, (with those who did so later). Those are higher in rank than those who spent (freely) and fought afterward. But to all has God promised a goodly (reward). And God is well acquainted with all that ye do.” (Al-Hadid: 57/10)
Ten Blessed Ashra Mubashra
The ten blessed Ashra Mubashra are as follows:
- Hazrat Abu Bakar Sadique (RA)
- Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA)
- Hazrat Usman (RA)
- Hazrat Ali (RA)
- Hazrat Zubair Ibn Al-Awam (RA)
- Hazrat Talha (RA)
- Hazrat Abdul Rehman bin Auf (RA)
- Hazrat Abu Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarah (RA)
- Hazrat Saad Ibn Abi Waqas (RA)
- Hazrat Saeed Bin Zaid (RA)
Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA)
Hazrat Abu Bakar Ibn Uthman (RA) was the first leader of the Muslims. He was very close to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and even married his daughter. Before he became a Muslim, he was a rich businessman. But after accepting Islam, he gave away all his wealth to help other Muslims.
Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA) traveled with the Holy Prophet (SAW) from Makkah to Madina when they had to leave because of troubles in Makkah. He always supported the Holy Prophet (SAW) and fought in important battles for the Muslims, like the Battle of Badar and the Battle of Uhud.
He served as the leader of the Muslims for 27 months. When he got very sick and knew he was going to die, he sent a message to Hazrat Ali (RA) to prepare him for burial. After he passed away, Hazrat Ali (RA) washed his body, and Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA) led the funeral prayer. He was buried next to the grave of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA)
According to the regular calendar, Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA) passed away on 23 August. On the same day, Muslims chose Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA) as their next leader. He’s known as one of the strongest and most successful leaders in Muslim history.
Hazrat Umer (RA) was famous for his bravery all across Arabia. When Muslims had to pray secretly to avoid persecution, Hazrat Umer’s (RA) courage led them to pray openly in the holy city of Makkah after he embraced Islam.
When Prophet Muhammad (SAW) told Muslims to migrate to Madina for safety, Hazrat Umer (RA) fearlessly announced his departure in broad daylight, daring anyone to try and stop him.
As caliph, Hazrat Umer (RA) brought many positive changes to the Muslim community, creating new systems and making improvements for everyone’s benefit.
After his passing, Hazrat Umer (RA) was laid to rest next to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW), marking the end of an era but leaving behind a legacy of strength and progress for Muslims to follow.
Hazrat Usman (RA)
Hazrat Usman Ibn Affan (RA) was the third leader of the Muslims. He was born in Makkah. Hazrat Usman (RA) was married to two daughters of the Holy Prophet (SAW), Hazrat Ruqayyah (RA) and Hazrat Umme Khulthum (RA).
Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA) encouraged Hazrat Usman (RA) to become a Muslim. He (RA) accepted Islam and became one of its earliest followers.
To help with wedding expenses, Hazrat Ali (RA) sold his shield to Hazrat Usman (RA) for 500 dirhams. Hazrat Ali (RA) used 400 dirhams from this to pay as Mehr to Hazrat Fatima (RA). Later, Hazrat Usman (RA) returned the shield to Hazrat Ali (RA) as a wedding gift.
Hazrat Usman (RA) holds the honor of preparing a standard version of the Holy Quran. He (RA) instructed Muslims to follow this version of the Quran.
Hazrat Ali Ibn Abi Talib (RA)
Hazrat Ali (RA) was a close relative of Hazrat Muhammad (SAW), born in the holy city of Makkah. He embraced Islam when he was just 10 years old. Hazrat Ali (RA) married Hazrat Fatima (RA), the youngest daughter of the Holy Prophet (SAW).
During the night of the Holy Prophet’s (SAW) migration, Hazrat Ali (RA) risked his life by sleeping in the Prophet’s (SAW) bed to deceive their enemies. This courageous act helped ensure the Prophet’s (SAW) safe escape from Makkah.
Hazrat Ali (RA) served as the fourth caliph for Sunni Muslims and the first caliph for Shia Muslims. He fought bravely in many battles, including the conquest of the Khyber fort, to promote Islam’s prosperity.
Sadly, on the 19th of Ramadan, while offering Fajr prayer in the mosque at Kufa, Hazrat Ali (RA) was attacked with a poisoned sword. He fell ill and passed away two days later, on the 21st of Ramzan. His shrine is located in Najaf, Iraq.
Hazrat Zubair Ibn Al-Awam (RA)
Hazrat Zubair Ibn Al-Awam (RA) was not just a cousin but also a close friend of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He was among the first five people to accept Islam and stood by the Prophet’s side through thick and thin. Hazrat Zubair (RA) was a brave warrior who fought in many battles for the Muslims, such as the battles of Badr, Uhud, the Trench, and Khyber. In battles, he was easily recognizable by his yellow turban.
Az-Zubayr ibn Al-Awam (RA) was born 28 years before the Hijrah calendar began. He married Asma (RA), the daughter of Abu Bakr (RA). He was present in all the battles led by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Az-Zubayr (RA) was the first to raise his sword against the polytheists and stood at the front lines in the Battle of Badr. After the Battle of Uhud, he was among those chosen by the Prophet (ﷺ) to track the Quraysh army. During the conquest of Mecca, he carried one of the banners, and he also took part in the conquest of Egypt.
His son, Abdullah Ibn Zubayr, became a renowned companion of the Prophet. Another son, Urwah Ibn Zubayr, was known for transmitting hadith from his aunt, Aishah (RA), who was also the mother of the believers.
Sadly, Hazrat Zubair (RA) met his end in the Battle of the Camel. While he was praying, Amir Ibn Jhurmuz attacked him, and he couldn’t survive the assault.
Hazrat Talha (RA)
Hazrat Talha (RA) was a close companion of Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He embraced Islam after being convinced by Hazrat Abu Bakar Sadiq (RA) and was among the first eight Muslims.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) gave Talhah ibn Ubaydullah (RA) several names like Talhah al-Khair, Talhah al-Fayyad, Saqr Uhud, and Talhah al-Joud. Once, while on a trading journey to Bosra, Talhah (RA) met a monk who told him about a prophet coming from Mecca. Excited, Talhah (RA) awaited the Prophet’s arrival.
When he returned, he found out that his uncle, Abu Bakr (RA), followed Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). Talhah (RA) trusted them deeply, so he embraced Islam too. He hurried to join them, knowing they were truthful and wouldn’t lie about Allah.
Talhah (RA) was among the first to accept Islam. He migrated to Medina, known for his kindness and generosity. He spent all his wealth for Muslims and for Allah’s sake.
Hazrat Talha (RA) participated in notable battles like Uhud and the Camel. In the Battle of the Camel, he was injured by an arrow, and despite efforts, his bleeding couldn’t be stopped, leading to his passing away due to the injury. His tomb is located in Basra, Iraq.
Hazrat Abdul Rehman bin Auf (RA)
‘Abd al-Rahman ibn ‘Awf (RA) migrated to Abyssinia and then to Medina to escape persecution. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) changed his name from Abd Amr to ‘Abd al-Rahman ibn ‘Awf. He passed away in the thirty-second year after the Hijrah and was buried in Al-Baqi’.
In the Battle of Uhud, ‘Abd al-Rahman ibn ‘Awf (RA) played a significant role. He stood steadfast alongside the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) on that challenging day.
Hazrat Abdul Rehman (RA) became a Muslim after talking with Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA). He fought bravely in the battles of Badr and Uhud. In the times of the first two caliphs, he played a significant role, assisting Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA) in governing. He was also a member of the advisory council (shura) during Hazrat Umer Farooq’s (RA) leadership. Abdul Rehman Bin Awf (RA) passed away in Madina, and he is buried in Jannah Al Baqi.
Hazrat Abu Ubaidah Ibn Al Jarah (RA)
Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (RA) accepted Islam just one day after Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA). He was a brave warrior who fought in many battles, including Badr, Uhud, the conquest of Makkah, Hunayn, and Tabuk. During Hazrat Abu Bakar’s (RA) time as caliph, Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (RA) remained by his side. When Hazrat Umer (RA) became caliph, he appointed Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (RA) as the supreme leader of the army.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) called Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah the trustee of the nation. He was known for his gentleness and humility. In the Battle of Badr, he had to fight against his own father, who was not a Muslim. Abu Ubaidah (RA) passed away due to the plague of Emmaus.
He took part in several battles alongside the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), including Badr, Uhud, and Hudaybiyah. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also sent him to lead an army in Dhat al-Khubat. Additionally, Abu Ubaidah (RA) served as a governor for the people of Najran. Under Hazrat Umer Farooq’s (RA) leadership, Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (RA) fought in battles like Emesa, Yarmuk, and Syria. He passed away in 639 CE, and his grave is located in Jabiya.
Hazrat Saad Ibn Abi Waqas (RA)
Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (RA) is known for being the first to shoot an arrow in defence of Islam. He embraced Islam when he was just seventeen years old. Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (RA) had a famous moment during the Battle of Uhud where he showed great courage. On that difficult day, only two men remained steadfast by the Prophet’s side: Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas and Talhah ibn Ubaydullah. They fought bravely to protect him.
Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (RA) is also remembered for his refusal to get involved in conflicts among the Companions. When some asked him to fight, he insisted he wouldn’t until they could give him a sword that could distinguish between believers and non-believers. This showed his commitment to justice and peace.
Hazrat Saad (RA) fought in the battles of Badr and Uhud. He was also responsible for building the city of Kufa. Hazrat Umer Farooq (RA) appointed him as the governor of Kufa and Najaf. When Hazrat Umer (RA) was choosing the next caliph, Hazrat Saad’s (RA) name was among the six nominees.
Hazrat Usman (RA) later appointed Hazrat Saad (RA) as the governor of Kufa again. Hazrat Saad (RA) played a significant role in spreading Islam, even traveling to China to preach. He also constructed a mosque named Abu Akkas Mosque in Bangladesh. Hazrat Saad (RA) passed away at the age of eighty.
Hazrat Saeed Bin Zaid (RA)
Sa’īd bin Zayd (RA) was known for his prayers being answered. There’s a well-known story about him and a lady named Arwa Bint Aws. When she accused him of taking her land, he prayed for Allah’s judgment. His prayer was that if she was lying, then may she be blinded and perish in her home. Soon after, she became blind and fell into a well in her house, leading to her death.
It’s also said that when Muawiyah (RA) wanted the people of Medina to pledge allegiance to his son Yazid, Marwan bin Al-Hakam, who was responsible for this, delayed. When asked why, Marwan replied that he was waiting for Sa’īd bin Zayd to pledge allegiance, as he was highly respected among the people.
After conquering Damascus, Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah appointed Sa’īd bin Zayd as its governor. He was known for his strength and honor on the battlefield. During the Battle of Yarmouk, Khalid ibn al-Walid predicted that Sa’īd bin Zayd would be at the heart of the Muslim ranks.
Conclusion
These Ashra Mubashra companions were granted a special place in Paradise because of their unwavering loyalty to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the sacrifices they made for Islam. All ten of them had exceptional characters and stood by the Prophet (PBUH) through all difficulties, even when others abandoned him.
They all accepted Islam in its early days and had complete faith in both the Prophet (PBUH) and Allah (SWT). They followed the Prophet’s teachings without question and worked tirelessly to spread Islam.
When the Prophet (PBUH) changed the direction of prayer from Masjid-Aqsa to the Holy Kaabah, they all followed suit without hesitation. They served Islam throughout their lives, each making their own contributions in different ways. They bravely fought against Islam’s enemies in numerous battles and prioritized protecting the Prophet (PBUH) above all else.
Although the Quran promises Paradise to all companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and those who strive for Islam, these ten companions were specifically given this glad tidings during their lifetimes. However, this hope extends to all other companions who stood by the Prophet (PBUH) and served Islam faithfully. There is hope for anyone who has strong faith, dedicates their life to Islam, and embraces all its teachings.