The evening breeze carried the scent of fresh dates as young Hassan sat beside his grandfather, eager for a story.
“Grandfather, you always tell me about the great companions of the Prophet (PBUH), but today, can you tell me about someone who suffered yet remained strong?” Hassan asked.
The old man smiled. “Ah, my dear boy, there are many inspirational Islamic figures, let me tell you the story of Ammar Ibn Yassir, a man whose faith was tested like fire tests gold. His story is not just history, it’s a lesson for us all.”
A Family of Faith and Sacrifice
“Ammar was born in Makkah at a time when believing in one God was dangerous. His parents, Yassir and Sumayyah, were among the first to accept Islam, but their faith came at a heavy price.
The Quraysh, angered by their refusal to worship idols, tortured them mercilessly.”
“The Prophet (PBUH) himself once passed by them as they suffered and said: ‘Patience, O family of Yassir! For indeed, your destination is Paradise.’ (Sunan Ibn Majah).
Can you imagine? The Prophet himself comforted them, knowing their struggles would not be in vain.”
Hassan’s eyes widened. “Did Ammar give up?” His grandfather shook his head. “No, my boy. But his test was severe.”
The Pain of Persecution
“Ammar endured torture beyond what most could bear. The Quraysh forced him onto the burning hot sand, placed heavy rocks on his chest, and demanded that he renounce Islam.
In unbearable pain, his lips trembled, and he uttered words against the Prophet (PBUH), words he never meant. He ran to the Prophet (PBUH), crying in despair.”
“Do you know what the Prophet (PBUH) said?” The grandfather paused, letting the moment sink in.
Hassan shook his head eagerly.
“Allah revealed a verse in the Qur’an for him: ‘Whoever disbelieves in Allah after their belief—not those who are forced while their hearts are firm in faith, but those who embrace disbelief wholeheartedly—they will be condemned by Allah and suffer a tremendous punishment. (Qur’an 16:106).
Ammar was forgiven because his heart never wavered.” Hassan exhaled in relief. “So, he stayed strong!”
Loyalty to the Prophet (PBUH)
“Yes, and he remained devoted to Islam. He was with the Prophet (PBUH) through every hardship. Ammar was there in battles, he built the Prophet’s mosque with his own hands, and the Prophet (PBUH) loved him dearly.
He once said: ‘Ammar is filled with faith to the core.’ (Sunan Al-Tirmidhi)
“But, grandfather, what lesson can we learn from Ammar today?” Hassan asked.
Lessons for Today’s World From the Story of Ammar Ibn Yassir
The old man leaned forward. “the story of Ammar Ibn Yassir teaches us many things, my boy.”
1. Faith Will Be Tested: “Like Ammar, you may face hardships for standing by what is right. It may not be torture, but people may mock or oppose you. Hold firm, and Allah will guide you. His life is a perfect example of perseverance in Islam, showing that true faith is not about an easy journey but about staying strong despite struggles.”
2. Allah Knows Your Heart: “Even when you make mistakes, if your heart remains sincere, Allah’s mercy is vast. Never lose hope.”
3. Stand for Justice: “Ammar later stood against oppression, even when it was difficult. Today, we must also stand for truth, even if we stand alone.”
4. Be Humble in Service: “Ammar, despite being noble, carried bricks for the Prophet’s mosque. No matter how great we become, we must serve others. One of the best ways to do this is by helping those in need through acts of Sadaqah. The Prophet (PBUH) said: ‘The best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.’ (Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsat)”
The grandfather ended the story of Ammar Ibn Yassir by saying “Ammar lived his whole life with faith, my dear Hassan. He later became a leader and a martyr, standing for justice till his last breath.”
Ikrima narrated that Abu Sa`id once said, During the construction of the mosque of the Prophet, we carried the adobe of the mosque, one brick at a time while `Ammar used to carry two at a time. The Prophet (PBUH) passed by `Ammar and removed the dust off his head and said, “May Allah be merciful to `Ammar. He will be killed by a rebellious aggressive group. `Ammar will invite them to (obey) Allah and they will invite him to the (Hell) fire.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
And indeed, Ammar was martyred during the Battle of Siffin, fighting for truth and justice. Even in his old age, he stood with Imam Ali (RA) against oppression. He fought bravely until he was struck down, fulfilling the words of the Prophet (PBUH).”
The story of Ammar Ibn Yassir’s is not just about early Islamic history; it is a guiding light for every believer today. In a world where faith and truth are often challenged, his life reminds us that patience, sincerity, and standing for justice will always lead to ultimate victory, if not in this world, then in the next.