Conversion to Islam in The Prophet's Early Followers

Early Days of Islam

• The first convert to Islam was Khadija, the wife of Prophet Muhammad.
• Zayd bin Harith, a freed slave, declared faith in Islam along with his cousin Ali.

Initial Reaction to Muhammad's Prophethood

• People initially reacted to the news of Muhammad's prophethood with skepticism and disbelief.

Abu Bakr's Conversion

• Abu Bakr immediately believed in the Prophet's message without needing convincing arguments due to his strong trust in Muhammad's honesty and integrity.

Early Stages of Islam

• In the first stage, the Prophet was asked to spread the message of Islam quietly due to the fear of persecution and opposition from the Quraysh.

Role of Abu Bakr in Islam

• Abu Bakr played a significant role in bringing rich merchants into the fold of Islam.

Arab Custom and the Prophet

• Before addressing the people, the Prophet would follow Arab custom by first seeking permission from the gathered crowd.

Quraysh Opposition

• The Quraysh opposed the Prophet spreading his message because they feared it would undermine their power and influence.

Makkah: Centre of Pilgrimage

• Makkah was a centre of pilgrimage due to the presence of the Kaaba, a sacred house of worship.
• The Quraysh tribes benefited economically from the pilgrimage to Makkah as visitors would bring goods and wealth.

Abu Lahab's Reaction

• Abu Lahab reacted angrily to the Prophet's message because it challenged his authority and threatened his wealth and status.

Fear of Islam's Popularity

• The Quraysh feared that if Islam gained popularity, it would lead to a loss of their power, wealth, and influence over the pilgrims.