The Strategies of the Messenger SAW For Social Stability in Madinah after the Migration (A Research Study)

Abstract

When the companions of the Messenger ﷺ arrived in Madinah, they faced numerous challenges:  there was no centre for learning, no point for social meetings, and no residence for the poor, in addition, no arrangements for their livelihood and security from other tribes. In such a critical situation, how did the Prophet Muhammad SAW implement strategic measures to address these issues and achieve social stability? To answer this question we have to study the key strategies of the Messenger SAW when he reached Madinah. His first strategy was the construction of a Masjid (Mosque), which served as a centre for learning, a meeting place, and a residence for the poor and travelers. The masjid became the heart of the community, facilitating education, social interaction, and support for those in need. The second strategy was the establishment of a Brotherhood (Mu’akhah) which involved fostering brotherhood between the Emigrants (Muhajirun) and the Helpers (Ansar). This bond of brotherhood ensured that the immigrants received support in earning a livelihood and integrating into society. It also provided social satisfaction and strengthened communal ties, promoting unity and cooperation. The third strategy was a contract with the Jewish tribes of Madinah. This agreement ensured security and peace within the city by making the Jewish tribes responsible for maintaining order and contributing to the collective defense. It fostered a sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect among the diverse communities. These three foundational strategies offer valuable lessons for addressing social challenges of the Contemporary era such as the establishment of places where people can gather, learn, and support one another, ensuring that marginalized groups receive the help they need to thrive, and promoting unity and cooperation among diverse community members, providing mechanisms for economic support and employment, and developing inclusive security arrangements that involve all community members. These were initial strategies of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in Madinah, which gives us proper guidance in social stability and in overcoming social obstacles of the contemporary world. 

Keywords: Strategies, Social Stability, Masjid, Brotherhood, Contract