The Battle of Hunayn
غزوة حنين
Summary
Shortly after the conquest of Makkah, the tribes of Hawazin and Thaqif gathered a large army. The Muslim force of 12,000 initially fell into an ambush in the valley of Hunayn and scattered, but the Prophet stood firm and called them back. Allah sent His aid and the Muslims prevailed.
Details
Some Muslims felt overconfident due to their numbers — someone said 'We will not be defeated today due to few numbers.' This pride was addressed in the Qur'an (9:25-26). When the ambush struck, most of the army fled in confusion. The Prophet, riding his mule, advanced toward the enemy calling out: 'I am the Prophet, no lie! I am the son of Abd al-Muttalib!' His uncle Abbas, who had a powerful voice, called the Companions back. The Ansar and Muhajirun rallied, and the battle turned decisively. The spoils were immense; the Prophet distributed them generously to the new Muslims of Makkah to win their hearts (al-mu'allafatu qulubuhum).