Conversion of Bilal ibn Rabah

Bilal ibn Rabah, an Abyssinian slave owned by Umayyah ibn Khalaf, was among the early converts to Islam. When his master discovered his faith, Umayyah subjected Bilal to severe torture, dragging him through the scorching sands of Mecca at midday and placing a heavy boulder on his chest, demanding he renounce Islam. Through all his suffering, Bilal would only repeat 'Ahad, Ahad' (One, One), affirming the oneness of Allah. Abu Bakr al-Siddiq purchased his freedom for a large sum. The Prophet later appointed Bilal as the first mu'adhdhin (caller to prayer) in Islam, his powerful voice calling the believers to worship. His story became a symbol of Islam's message of equality, as a former slave was elevated to one of the most honored positions in the Muslim community.