The Battle of Badr: Winning through Tawakkul

Ramadan is a month of battles. Not the kind fought with swords and shields, but the kind that take place deep within ourselves. The battle of waking up for Suhoor in the last part of the night while sleep feels sweeter than worship. The battle of restraining one’s anger, holding back our tongue when someone really tests your patience. Also, the battle we fight when our hearts are tempted to splurge on our desires while we must give to charity. 

In yet another part of the world, there are many who endure constant battles against hunger, against impatience, against poverty or the heart burning desire to succeed. In many ways, these struggles remind us of the Battle of Badr- a moment in Islamic history that wasn’t just about war, as it was about faith, resilience and Divine support. 

The Battle of Badr took place on this day i.e. the 17th of Ramadan in the year 624 CE. It was the first major battle between the early Muslims of Madinah, led by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and the powerful Quraysh army from Makkah. The odds were overwhelmingly against the Muslims—just 313 men facing over 1,000 seasoned warriors. These Muslims were ill-equipped, outnumbered, and were facing a force that was far stronger than them. 

But the battle of Badr was never just about numbers or weapons. It was a battle of faith. The Muslims, with their unwavering belief in Allah’s promise, stood firm. And then came the divine intervention—angels sent by Allah (SW) to help the believers. Surprisingly, the Muslims achieved victory against all expectations and thus, it marked a turning point in Islamic history. 

One of the most prominent figures in achieving this victory was Hazrat Ali Ibn Abu Talib (RA)- the beloved cousin, son in law of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the fourth rightly guided Caliph of Islam. His unmatched bravery played a crucial role in the battle as he faced some of the fiercest warriors of Quraysh in a single combat. Known as the greatest warrior in Islamic history, Hazrat Ali (RA) has often been praised by the Prophet (ﷺ) for his bravery and unshakeable faith in Islam on many occasions. 

While we may not face an army today, each of us fights our own battles—especially in Ramadan. The biggest battlefield? Our own hearts and minds. Just as the Sahaba (companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) fought against fear and doubt while facing a huge army with fine military tactics, we battle against our nafs (inner desires) while facing temptations of all kinds. Every. Single. Day. 

The battle of Badr taught the Muslims resilience and reliance or Tawakkaul on Allah (SWT) as He alone is Al-Nasīr (النصير) – The Helper, Al-Walī (الولي) – The Protecting Ally/Friend and Al-Mawlā (المولى) – The Protector. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) once said, "The strong is not the one who overcomes people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger." (Sahih al-Bukhari). True victory isn’t always about defeating an enemy that must be hurling abuses on us across the street; most often, it’s about defeating the worst parts of ourselves and resisting the desire to sin and preserve our goodness. That is the greatest of all battles, known as Jihad al-Akbar! 

Of all the inspirations we received from the Battle of Badr, one of the most beautiful lessons that stands out is having sincerity of intentions and placing our trust in Allah (SWT). Just as the Muslims at Badr, who despite being less in number, gave everything for the sake of Islam, we are reminded in Ramadan to give from what we have- as little as that might be—our time, our wealth, and our hearts to those who go through unimaginable battles against odds every day. 

At Penny Appeal, we believe in turning this spirit of giving into action. Whether it’s providing food for the hungry, supporting orphans, or helping communities in need, every small act of charity is a victory against greed and selfishness. 

As we step into the last days of Ramadan, let’s reflect: What battles are we fighting? And how can we emerge victorious? 

Just like the warriors of Badr, let’s put our faith in action. Donate to Penny Appeal today and help make a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most. 

“As for those who strive in Our cause, We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good." 
(Qur'an 29:69)