CHOOSING THE BATTLEFIELD OF BADR
In the second year after Hijra (2 AH), the Battle of Badr took place during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. At that time, he was in Medina and received news that a Quraysh army was advancing toward the city. The Prophet prepared an army and set out to confront them in the direction from which the Quraysh army was approaching. Before reaching Badr, the Prophet and his Companions camped at a certain location, indicating that if the enemy advanced, they would engage them there.
At this point, a Companion named Khabbab ibn al-Mundhir approached the Prophet and asked, “O Messenger of God, is this place where you have camped based on a revelation from God, or is it an opinion and a war strategy?” The Prophet replied that it was an opinion and a war strategy. Upon hearing this, the Companion said, “Then this is not the place to camp” (Al-Sirah Ibn Hisham, Vol. 2, p. 259).
This was a clear case of objection. However, the Prophet did not take offence. Instead, he calmly asked the Companion why he held a differing view. The Companion explained his reasoning: there were several wells of water between their current position and the enemy. If they camped where they were and allowed the enemy to advance, the enemy would gain control of all the wells. Therefore, they should move forward and take control of the wells, ensuring access to water for themselves while denying it to the enemy. Upon hearing this explanation, the Prophet said, “You have suggested a good strategy.”
This conversation occurred in a completely open and normal environment. Ultimately, the Prophet approved the Companion’s suggestion and acted upon it. This decision contributed to the decisive victory of the Muslims in the battle.
This example highlights the vital importance of a free environment for the expression of opinions in reaching the best decision. Differing perspectives can reveal new dimensions of a matter, proving invaluable in achieving the right outcome. The significance of this principle is so great that even when a differing opinion is expressed in a direct or forceful manner, it should be met with tolerance and a positive attitude.
