Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas (Arabic: سعد بن أبي وقاص) (c. 595 – 674 CE / c. 23 BH – 54 AH) was one of the most prominent companions of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. He is revered in Islam as one of the al-Asharat al-Mubashsharun bil-Jannah (the Ten Promised Paradise). He was a distinguished military commander, known for his archery skills, and a key figure in the early Islamic conquests, particularly the conquest of Persia.
Early Life and Conversion
Sa'd was born in Mecca around 595 CE, a member of the Banu Zuhrah clan of the Quraysh tribe. His mother was Hamnah bint Sufyan, and his father was Malik ibn Uhayb. He was one of the earliest converts to Islam, embracing the new faith at a young age, reportedly around seventeen, through the invitation of Abu Bakr. He is often cited as the third or fourth man to accept Islam. Sa'd's conversion was met with strong opposition from his mother, who reportedly threatened to starve herself until death if he did not recant, but Sa'd remained steadfast in his faith. This event is often linked to the revelation of Quranic verses (Q 31:14-15 and Q 29:8) that emphasize obedience to parents but not at the expense of polytheism.
Military Career and Role in Early Islamic Battles
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas was renowned for his skill in archery, a talent highly valued by Prophet Muhammad, who reportedly said, "Shoot, Sa'd, may my mother and father be ransomed for you!" He participated in almost all major battles of early Islam:
- Battle of Badr (624 CE): He fought bravely in this pivotal battle, being one of the first to shed blood for Islam.
- Battle of Uhud (625 CE): During this battle, when many Muslim archers abandoned their positions, Sa'd remained steadfast, defending Muhammad with his arrows.
- Battle of the Trench (627 CE): He played a significant role in the defense of Medina.
- Conquest of Mecca (630 CE): Sa'd entered Mecca alongside the Prophet.
Conquest of Persia
Sa'd's most significant military achievements came during the reign of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab, when he was appointed the commander-in-chief of the Muslim army for the conquest of the Sasanian Persian Empire.
- Battle of al-Qadisiyyah (636 CE): This was a decisive encounter where Sa'd led the Muslim forces to a stunning victory over the much larger and better-equipped Sasanian army under the command of Rostam Farrokhzad. This battle effectively broke the backbone of Sasanian power in Mesopotamia.
- Fall of Ctesiphon (637 CE): Following al-Qadisiyyah, Sa'd's army marched on the Sasanian capital, Ctesiphon (al-Mada'in). After a siege, the city fell, yielding immense spoils to the Muslims.
- Founding of Kufa: Sa'd established the garrison city of Kufa in Iraq, which quickly grew into a major Islamic center and played a crucial role in subsequent Islamic history. He served as its first governor.
Political Life and Later Years
Sa'd was highly respected by Caliph Umar, who appointed him as one of the six members of the Shura (consultative council) tasked with electing the next caliph after Umar's assassination. Though he was considered a strong candidate, Uthman ibn Affan was eventually chosen.
During the First Fitna (the first Islamic civil war) that erupted after the assassination of Caliph Uthman, Sa'd maintained a neutral stance, advising his sons and other Muslims to avoid participating in the internal conflict. He famously refused to take sides between Ali ibn Abi Talib and Mu'awiyah, stating, "I will not fight until you give me a sword that has eyes, a tongue, and knows a believer from an unbeliever." He retired from public life and settled in his estate at al-Aqiq, near Medina.
Death and Legacy
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas died in 674 CE (54 AH) at his estate in al-Aqiq and was buried in al-Baqi' cemetery in Medina. He was the last of the Ten Promised Paradise to die.
His legacy is one of piety, courage, and military prowess. He is remembered as:
- One of the Ten Promised Paradise: A testament to his high spiritual standing in Islam.
- A renowned archer: Highly praised by Prophet Muhammad for his skill.
- A successful military strategist: Whose leadership was crucial in the conquest of Persia.
- A figure of wisdom and neutrality: Particularly during the turbulent period of the First Fitna.
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas remains a revered figure in Islamic history, symbolizing the early Muslim spirit of devotion, bravery, and leadership.