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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Anecdotes of Pious Men The Prayer That Was Granted "O God, Do not let me return to my family'." These were the words that Hind, the wife of Amr bin Jamuh, heard, from her husband when he left the house fully armed for participating in the battle of Uhud. It was his first time to fight alongwith the Muslims.

He had not fought before as he was very lame, and according to the clear rule of the Qur'an Jihad (holy war against non-believers) is not incumbent upon those who are blind, lame or sick. Though he himself had not participated in Jihad but his four lion-hearted sons were always with the holy Prophet. Nobody had ever thought that Amr, inspite of his genuine excuse, and after sending four sons to Jihad, would want himself to be included among the soldiers of Islam.

When his relatives heard of his decision they came to persude him to change his mind. They said "First of all, you are exempted from Jihad, by rule 8 3 of "Shariat" (divine law). Secondly, you have four brave sons who are going with the Prophet. So, there is no need for you to go yourself." He replied: "As my sons want to get eternal bliss and paradise, I too have the same desire. Will it not be strange if they go and achieve martyrdom while I sit in the house with you.

No, it is not possible" His relatives did not accept his views; and one after another came to him to persuade him. At last, he appealed to the Prophet: "O Prophet of God! My relatives want to con- fine me in the house. They are not allowing me to participate in Jihad. By God it is my wish to go to paradise with this lame leg" "O Amir! After all, you have a genuine ex- cuse. God has exempted you. Jihad is not incum- bent on you" "O Prophet of God! I am aware of that.

I know it is not incumbent upon me; even then........." 8 4 The Prophet said: "Do not forbid him from Jihad. Let him go. Since he has a desire for attain- ing martyrdom, God may bless him with it." One of the most spectacular scenes of the battle-field of Uhud was the fighting of Amr bin Jamuh, who with his limping leg was attacking the centre of the enemy's army and was shouting, "I have the desire of paradise'." One of his sons was moving behind him. They fought gallantly till both were killed.

After the war ended, many Muslim women came out of Medina for getting correct news of the whole affair. They were anxious specially in view of the frightening news which had reached the city.