Battle of Badr
Badr valley, near the town of Badr, Medina Province, Saudi Arabia
What happened
The early Muslim community of Medina, led by the Prophet Muhammad, fought the Quraysh tribe of Mecca, led by Amr ibn Hisham (Abu Jahl). Muhammad set out to stop a rich Meccan trading caravan led by Abu Sufyan. The caravan took another route and sent for help, and a Meccan army marched to the wells of Badr. About 313 Muslims met a much larger Meccan force, and after a few hours of fighting the Muslims won.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The victory raised Muhammad's standing in Medina and encouraged other tribes to ally with him. It is remembered as one of the most important events in early Islamic history.
What came next
Fighting between Medina and Mecca went on for several years. Later, Muhammad entered Mecca, and Abu Sufyan, who had escaped Badr, helped arrange the city's surrender.
Did you know?
The Quran calls the battle 'Yawm al-Furqan', meaning 'the Day of the Criterion'.
Timeline
- Early 624Muhammad sets out to intercept Abu Sufyan's caravan.
- 13 March 624The Muslims win at Badr (17 Ramadan, 2 AH).
- LaterMuhammad enters Mecca.