THE WAY OF THE PROPHET

One of the significant incidents recorded in the books of the Prophet’s biography is the Hilf al-Fudul (Alliance of the Virtuous). This took place before the Prophet of Islam received revelation. In Makkah, a group of individuals gathered at the house of Abdullah ibn Judan and pledged to stand for justice, support the oppressed, and ensure that rightful claims were fulfilled.

The Prophet of Islam was one of those who participated in this gathering. According to the narration of Ibn Ishaq, after the advent of prophethood, when this alliance was mentioned, the Prophet said: “I participated in that pact. And if I were called to it today, even after Islam, I would respond to it.” (Seerah Ibn Hisham, Vol. 1, p. 124)

This statement refers specifically to the spirit of Hilf al-Fudul. On the other hand, regarding the call to monotheism, the Prophet declared: “This is my way; on the basis of sure knowledge, I call on you to have faith in God—I and those who follow me.” (Quran, 12:108)

Reflecting on both these points comparatively makes it clear that in the case of Hilf al-Fudul, the Prophet considered himself merely a respondent to an external invitation. In contrast, when it came to spreading the light of truth, he took on the role of an active caller. This indicates that in an environment where truth is absent, the foremost positive responsibility of believers is to propagate the message of truth. With regard to social welfare and public good, believers may take part in such efforts when invited by sincere and well-meaning individuals.

This is because the root cause of human corruption is always forgetfulness of God, the supreme reality. Prophets—and in their path, true believers—always work at the root of the problem, not its surface.