2-6: 636 and 637 CE

In this episode of the Islamic History Podcast, we explore the Umayyad Caliphate’s growing instability during 121–122 AH. From failed Byzantine campaigns to major rebellions in Iraq and North Africa, the empire's reliance on Syrian troops reaches a breaking point. 

Despite fleeting military victories, internal cracks deepen in the Umayyad Caliphate as unjust taxes, tribal rivalries, and the rise of the Mawali set the stage for the empire’s inevitable downfall. 

Name The Surah takes its name Ar-Rum from the second verse in which the words ghulibat-ir-Rum have occurred. Period of Revelation The period of the revelation of this Surah is determined absolutely by the historical event that has been mentioned at the outset. It says: "The ...  Show more

Name This Surah is known by two names -- At-Taubah and Al-Bara'at. It is called At-Taubah because it enunciates the nature of taubah (repentance) and mentions the conditions of its acceptance.(vv. 102. 118). The second name Bara'at (Release) is taken from the first word of the S ...  Show more

The Roman army, with 10,000 soliders, outnumbered the Muslims 3:1 at the Battle of Mutah. Some of the Muslims feared the large army and wanted to retreat, but the senior companions bolstered their courage. Prophet Muhammad had appointed a leader for the army, with two backup lead ...  Show more

Haroon al Rashid is commonly portrayed as a martial caliph, one who menaced the Byzantine empire and led a tireless crusade against them. He is praised in Arab sources for defeating the Greeks time and again, all in defense of the umma’s faith and faithful. While this popular opi ...  Show more