Talha ibn Ubaydullah (RA) was one of the most beloved companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
During the Battle of Uhud, he stood like a shield in front of the Prophet (PBUH), taking all the arrows fired by the enemies onto his own body, protecting the Prophet (PBUH) more than his own life.
He is also one of the companions who was given the glad tidings of Paradise while still alive in this world.
Talha (RA) was an exceptional businessman, characterized by high moral virtues, nobility, and immense generosity.
He earned the praise of the Prophet (PBUH) as a “living martyr walking upon the earth.” He was a close friend of Abu Bakr (RA) and was a prominent cloth merchant.
During the early days of Islam, he was one of the first eight people to accept the true path of Islam through Abu Bakr (RA).
Once he embraced Islam, he faced intense opposition from the Quraysh of Mecca, and persecution began right inside his own home, causing him great suffering. His own brother, Uthman ibn Ubaydullah, tied him to a pillar and whipped him. He was also denied food and starved. Desiring only the pleasure of God, he endured all these hardships with patience.
His Generosity and Kindness
After embracing Islam, Talha (RA) sold all his possessions and used that wealth to purchase one hundred enslaved people to set them free, and he even arranged marriages for them. The Prophet (PBUH) praised Talha (RA) as a highly charitable and generous soul.
Furthermore, he sold all his lands to Uthman (RA) and donated the proceeds to the soldiers participating in the Expedition of Tabuk. He also purchased various water wells along the way to dedicate them to quenching the thirst of his fellow companions during battles.
In Mecca, there was fierce competition to marry Safiyyah, the daughter of Utbah ibn Rabi’ah. Talha (RA) was among those who proposed to her. When Talha (RA) asked, “I wish to marry you,” Safiyyah immediately agreed. At a later time, when Safiyyah (RA) was asked why she chose Talha, she replied:
“I had already heard about his character—that Talha is a good man and a generous soul; if I work for him, he will appreciate it, and if a mistake occurs, he will forgive. That is why I agreed.”
His Bravery at the Battle of Uhud
Imam Al-Nasa’i (RA) records a narration by Jabir (RA) regarding the bravery of Talha ibn Ubaydullah:
During the Battle of Uhud, the enemies surrounded the Prophet (PBUH). At that moment, the Prophet (PBUH) asked, “Who will fight off these enemies?” Talha (RA) stepped forward immediately and replied, “I will.” However, since the Ansar (helpers) present were also ready, the Prophet (PBUH) permitted the Ansar first. One by one, the Ansar fought the enemies and achieved martyrdom.
Following them, Talha (RA) fought the enemy. His combat was equivalent to the strength of 11 men. His hands sustained multiple sword wounds, and some of his fingers were severed. It was regarding this that the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever wishes to see a living martyr walking upon the earth, let him look at Talha ibn Ubaydullah.”
The Narration of Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (RA)
Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (RA) narrates:
As the Battle of Uhud was coming to a close, because a few companions failed to guard a mountain pass, the Mushrikeen (polytheists) launched a surprise counter-attack on the Muslims. Since the Muslims thought the war had ended, they were caught off guard and thrown into confusion, unable to comprehend what was happening. At that moment, the Muslims scattered away from the Prophet (PBUH) in different directions.
I was the first to rush back to the Prophet (PBUH). I saw a man fighting the enemies fiercely in front of him, protecting him. I said to myself, “Could it be Talha? May my father and mother be sacrificed for you! I missed this chance, but I am overjoyed that someone from my own clan has got the opportunity to protect the Prophet (PBUH).”
By then, Abu Ubaidah ibn al-Jarrah (RA) arrived speeding like a bird and joined me. We both rushed toward the Prophet (PBUH). By the time we reached there, Talha (RA) collapsed unconscious in front of the Prophet (PBUH).
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Save your brother; he has made Paradise mandatory for himself.” The Prophet (PBUH) repeated, “Save your brother; he has made Paradise mandatory for himself.”
We carried Talha (RA) away and treated his wounds. He had sustained ten deep sword wounds. Shortly after receiving treatment, Talha (RA) returned right back to the Prophet (PBUH).
His final resting place is located in the city of Basra, Iraq.
O Allah! Have mercy upon Hazrat Talha ibn Ubaydullah (RA)! Ameen!
