Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA)

Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA): The Great Warrior Whose Oaths Allah Fulfilled

Today, we meet a valiant warrior whose deeds have left indelible marks on the pages of history, a hero of the blessed era of Prophethood who displayed unmatched courage on the battlefield. This eminent Companion is Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA), the brother of Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA), the special servant of the Prophet ﷺ. He was the embodiment of bravery, courage, and heroism, whose life’s purpose was the elevation of the Word of Truth (Kalima) and attaining martyrdom in the way of Allah, no matter how difficult the path.

Hazrat Umar bin Khattab (RA), recognizing his fearless bravery, once wrote in a letter:
"Do not appoint Bara’ bin Malik as the commander of any Muslim army, because his extraordinary courage may lead the army into extreme danger."

Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA) single-handedly killed one hundred polytheists in one-to-one combat. His entire life was marked by continuous struggle and jihad. His first battle with the Prophet ﷺ was the Battle of Uhud, and he was also present at the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, where he had the honor of taking the Pledge of Ridwan. Later, he participated in the Conquest of Makkah, the Battle of Hunayn, and numerous other campaigns.

The Prophet ﷺ said about him:
"Many of those who seem disheveled, dusty, and wearing old clothes are considered insignificant in this world, but if they swear an oath relying on Allah, He will fulfill it. Bara’ bin Malik is among them."

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Hadeeqat al-Maut (The Garden of Death) and Unmatched Sacrifice

After the passing of the Prophet ﷺ, during the Apostasy Wars (Riddah), Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) and the Muslims faced severe challenges. During the Battle of Yamama, the followers of Musaylimah the Liar were trapped in a fortress-like garden called Hadeeqat al-Maut ("The Garden of Death"). It was extremely difficult for the Muslims to conquer it.

At that moment, Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA) climbed onto a shield and told his companions:
"Lift me on your spears and throw me into the midst of the enemy over the wall."

He was thrown inside on the spears and single-handedly attacked the enemy, fighting until he opened the fortress gate. On that day, he suffered more than 80 wounds, and Hazrat Khalid bin Walid (RA) treated him for over a month.

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Saving His Brother and Martyrdom

During the conquest of Tuster (in Persia), Hazrat Bara’ (RA) saved the life of his brother, Hazrat Anas bin Malik (RA). The Persians threw hot iron chains and stakes from the fortress walls, one of which struck Hazrat Anas (RA). Seeing this, Hazrat Bara’ (RA) rushed to the wall, grabbed the burning chain with his hands, and shielded his brother. His hands were severely burnt, and only bones remained after he removed them, but he did not hesitate.

During the intense battle, some Muslims advised him: “Take an oath in the name of Allah so that victory may be granted.” He prayed:
"O Allah! By Your oath, I ask You to grant us victory over the enemy and unite me with Your Prophet ﷺ (i.e., grant me martyrdom)."

As a result, the Muslims were victorious, and Hazrat Bara’ bin Malik (RA) attained martyrdom. May Allah be pleased with him and all the Companions of the Prophet ﷺ.