Sela (Saudi Arabia)

Sela is a historical location in Saudi Arabia, best known as the site of the Battle of Sela during the early Islamic period. The Battle of Sela occurred in 627 CE (5 AH) as part of the larger Battle of the Trench (also known as the Battle of Khandaq). It involved a siege of Medina by a confederacy of Arabian tribes, primarily the Quraysh of Mecca, aiming to eliminate the nascent Muslim community. Sela refers to a hill or rocky area near Medina where a portion of the defending Muslim army, led by the Prophet Muhammad, positioned themselves to monitor and defend against attacks. The strategic positioning at Sela allowed the Muslims to control key vantage points and reinforce the defensive trench dug around Medina. The Battle of the Trench, including the engagement at Sela, ultimately ended in a victory for the Muslims, significantly strengthening their position in Arabia. Sela, therefore, holds historical and religious significance within Islamic history.