- Essay Question: “Discuss the circumstances and outcomes of the Hudaybiyah treaty.

What were the lessons learnt from the treaty and how can we apply them in solving
contemporary disputes?”
- Name/Surname: Liwaa Haddara

- Student Number: 11811785

- CSU Subject Code/Subject Name: ISL181 – Sirah (Life of Prophet Muhammad)

- Name of Lecturer: Suleyman Sertkaya

- Date of Submission: Sunday 24th September 2023

Introduction
The Hudaybiyah Treaty, inked in the year 628 CE, represents a major milestone within the
Prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) and ultimately, Islamic history. It represents a
transformative juncture in the journey of the Prophet and the inchoate Muslim community.
Looking beyond the historical context, this treaty imparts crucial insights for conflict
resolution in the modern period.

Historical Context
In the years leading up to the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, the emerging Muslim community in
Makkah faced relentless persecution from the dominant Quraysh tribe, which held political,
religious, and economic control over the city, and was Prophet Muhammad’s tribe who
ultimately expelled him from the city. Makkah was not only a revered religious centre but
also a vital trade hub. The Quraysh, deeply rooted in their polytheistic beliefs for economic
gain, viewed Islam’s monotheistic message as a direct challenge to their way of life. To
suppress the message of the Prophet, they subjected Muslims to physical torture, social
isolation, economic boycotts, and punitive actions.1

As persecution became unbearable, the Prophet and his followers recognised the need for a
safer environment to practice their faith. This realisation led to the crucial decision to migrate
from Makkah to Madinah.2 This migration, known as the Hijrah, marked a pivotal moment in
Islam’s history, symbolising both a physical move and a transformative shift in the life of the
Muslims community.

Upon arrival in Madinah, Muslim migrants found a diverse and welcoming community.
Madinah provided a much more favourable environment for Islam’s practice and spread. The
people of Madinah, both Muslims and no-Muslims, offered significant support to the
migrants (known as Muhajirun), turning the city into a sanctuary for Muslims. The
establishment of the Medina Charter, a constitution promoting peaceful coexistence among
various tribal and religious groups, solidified Madinah’s status as a sanctuary for Muslims.3

Immediately leading up to the Treaty

In 628 CE, a series of events culminated in the Treaty of Hudaybiyah in Islamic history. After
the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) aspired to perform the Umrah pilgrimage (the lesser
pilgrimage in contrast with the Hajj), which involves circumambulation of the Ka’ba and
observing specific Islamic rituals. He, along with the Muslims, embarked on a journey to
Makkah. However, upon reaching a place called Hudaybiyyah (situated about 14.5km outside
of Makkah), they were informed that the Quraysh had denied them permission to enter
Makkah, and tensions escalated towards a potential battle.4

To prevent conflict, the Prophet send a trusted companion (Uthman ibn Affan) as an envoy to
engage with the Quraysh. He was granted entry into Makkah and engaged in discussions with
1
S. Margoliouth, "The Treaty of Hudaybiyya - A Restatement of the History of Islam and Muslims," Al-
Islam.Org, accessed August 13, 2023, https://www.al-islam.org/restatement-history-islam-and-muslims-sayyid-
ali-asghar-razwy/treaty-hudaybiyya.
2
Ibid.
3
M. A. Baderin, "The Evolution of Islamic Law of Nations and the Modern International Order: Universal
Peace through Mutuality and Cooperation," American Journal of Islam and Society 17, no. 2 (2000): 60,
doi:10.35632/ajis.v17i2.2062.
4
Fazli Idris and Ahamad Asmadi Sakat, "The Rigid Flexibility Model for Strategic Outcomes: Lessons Learned
from the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah," Jurnal Pengurusan 44 (2015): 3-10,
https://www.ukm.my/jurnalpengurusan/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/jp_44-1.pdf. Page 5.
the tribal leaders. Through these negotiations, a fundamental agreement was reached,
prompting the Quraysh to send their own envoy (Suhayl ibn Amr) to finalise the treaty’s
details.5

The Hudaybiyah Treaty

The Hudaybiyah Treaty, a momentous accord which took place in the Islamic month of Dhu
al-Qi’dah, 6 AH/ 628 CE6, was negotiated near Makkah and played a central role in Islamic
history by influencing events and relationships between the early Muslim community and the
Quraysh tribe. This treaty had several noteworthy provisions, mainly consisting of the
following six clauses:

1. Both parties agreed to a ten-year period of peace without engaging in hostilities or

attacks against each other.
2. Any individual from the Quraysh who joined the Prophet without permission from
their chief or guardian must be returned to Makkah.
3. Conversely, individuals from the Prophet’s side who wished to join the Makkan
Quraysh were not required to return to Makkah.
4. Actions such as stealing, or disloyalty would be subject to legal action.
5. Members of Arab tribes were permitted to choose an alliance with either of the two
parties.
6. Muslims were required to return to Madinah during that year without entering
Makkah. They were allowed to return in the following year to perform ‘Umrah and
could stay in Makkah for a maximum of three days.7

The condition requiring the immediate return to Madina appeared unfavourable to the
Muslims, as they were not permitted to enter the Holy City during that year, denying access
to the revered Kaaba, which is perceived in Islam as the House of God and thereby the holiest
site. This prohibition understandably disappointed some amongst the Muslim community
(stripping them of any reward for their difficult journey between the two cities) and viewed it
as a challenge to their religious rights.

Nonetheless, guided by the strategic vision of achieving lasting peace and recognising the
treaty’s long-term influence and importance, Prophet Muhammad deemed it was a crucial
step towards reconciliation. He saw beyond the immediate drawbacks, believing that the
respite from hostilities would enable the Muslims community to strengthen itself and engage
with other tribes and communities, expanding the reach of Islam. His acceptance of the treaty,
barring initial dissatisfaction among some followers, demonstrated his commitment to peace
and trailblazing foresight.

As time passed, this treaty led to a period of long-awaited peace, and the gradual opening of
communication channels between the Muslims and the Quraysh. This paved the way for the
eventual, peaceful conquest of Makkah (only a couple of years later) and the coveted
unification of the Arabian Peninsula under the banner of Islam. In essence, the Hudaybiyah
Treaty represented a diplomatic triumph for Prophet Muhammad and his followers. It
transcended immediate conditions, showcasing the Prophet’s commitment to peace and
5
Ibid., 6.
6
Asyiqin Ab Halim, "The Truce of Al-Hudaybiyyah Referred to by the Qur'an as an 'Open Victory': An
Analysis” 5 (3) (2018): Page 1, http://ajba.um.edu.my/index.php/RIS/article/view/15493#_ftnref1.
7
Ibid., 2.
strategic acumen, leading to the realisation of his vision for peacefully spreading Islam across
the Arabian Peninsula, which would enable the endgame of spreading the message to the rest
of the world.

Outcomes
The Treaty brought about an immediate era of relative peace and a notable reduction in
hostilities between the Muslim community and the Quraysh of Makkah. This truce provided
both parties with a break from the constant tensions and confrontations that had characterised
their relationship for years. It established a ceasefire, fostering a degree of stability in the
region.8

The resulting peace had profound implications for the Muslim community, creating an
environment conductive to internal growth and the spread of their faith. Freed from the
perpetual threat of violence, Muslims expanded their influence not only in Madina but also in
the surrounding regions. The ceasefire facilitated the resumption of trade and communication
between the two factions, enabling the broader dissemination of Islam’s message.9

Regardless, over time, it became evident that the Quraysh were not adhering to the treaty’s
terms. Their support of allies in various tribal conflicts against the Muslims amounted to an
ultimate violation of the treaty. Hence, these breaches prompted the Prophet to take action,
resulting in the peaceful conquest of Makkah.10

Lessons Learned
The historical event of the treaty triggered several valuable lessons for present and future
communities:

Firstly, diplomacy and negotiation. The Hudaybiyah Treaty vividly exemplifies the
effectiveness of diplomacy and negotiation in conflict resolution. Despite initial discontent
among some Muslims regarding the treaty’s terms, it illustrates how diplomacy can create
opportunities for peaceful coexistence and dialogue, even amidst deep-seated animosities
between parties.11

Secondly, patience and restraint. Demonstrating patience and restraint, even in the face of
seemingly unfavourable conditions, can yield long-term benefits. Prophet Muhammad’s
decision to accept the treaty, despite its apparent drawbacks, serves as a testament to the
virtue of patience in pursuit of broader strategic objectives.12

Thirdly, complexity of conflict resolution. The Hudaybiyah Treaty underscores the

complexity of conflict resolution. Conflicts are often multifaceted and not easily resolved
through force alone. It involves pursuing peaceful coexistence and laying the groundwork for
future resolution, being a more achievable and prudent goal than just relentlessly seeking
outright victory at any cost.

8
Martin Lings, Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources (Islamic Texts Society, 1983), 252-255.
9
M. A. Baderin, "The Evolution of Islamic Law of Nations and the Modern International Order," 61.
10
Yahiya Emerick, "Going Home: The Conquest of Mecca," in Critical Lives - The Life and Work of
Muhammad, Chapter 12 (Indianapolis, Indiana: Alpha Books, 2002), 241-243.
11
Lings, “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources”, 275.
12
"The Treaty of Hudaibiyah: Key Points, Significance and Lessons," Zamzam.Com, October 4, 2021,
https://zamzam.com/blog/treaty-of-hudaibiya/
In essence, the treaty stands as a historical testament to the efficacy of diplomacy, patience,
and the nuanced nature of conflict resolution. It highlights how the pursuit of peace and
strategic negotiation can lead to significant long-term benefits, even in challenging
circumstances. These historical lessons remain relevant in contemporary conflict resolution
efforts, offering a blueprint for addressing complex and protracted disputes in the modern
world.

Contemporary Relevance
In today’s world, marred by ongoing conflicts and disputes among nations and communities,
the lessons of the Hudaybiyah Treaty remain profoundly relevant.13 An exemplary case is the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict, persisting for decades, where adopting a Hudaybiyah-like
approach could offer a practical path towards a lasting resolution. Initiating negotiations for a
temporary truce with conditions facilitating peaceful coexistence and further discussions
holds promise.

Moreover, principles such as diplomacy, patience, and compromise from the Hudaybiyah
Treaty can benefit contemporary international conflicts, including those centred on nuclear
disarmament or trade disputes. Applying these principles can prevent escalations and foster
an environment conductive to constructive negotiations.

Conclusion
The Hudaybiyah Treaty stands as a powerful historical testament to the potential of
diplomacy, patience, and compromise in achieving peaceful coexistence and resolving
conflicts. Its lessons transcend time and hold enduring relevance in modern conflict
resolution endeavours. By embracing these principles, nations and communities can take
meaningful steps toward resolving disputes and cultivating a more peaceful world.

13
Karen Armstrong, "Chapter Five: Salam," in Muhammad - A Prophet for Our Time, 181-185 (New York City,
New York: HarperCollins, 2006).
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