Battle of Khaybar

Background

The Battle of Khaybar took place in Muharram 7 AH (628 CE). Khaybar was a fortified Jewish settlement north of Madinah whose inhabitants had been actively conspiring against the Muslims, including inciting the confederates during the Battle of the Trench.

The Campaign

The Prophet Muhammad marched with approximately 1,400-1,600 companions to Khaybar, which consisted of several fortresses. The siege of the fortresses lasted several weeks. In one memorable episode, the Prophet said: 'Tomorrow I will give the flag to a man who loves Allah and His Messenger, and Allah and His Messenger love him.' The next morning, he gave the flag to Ali ibn Abi Talib, who led the breakthrough at the fortress of Khaybar (Sahih al-Bukhari 4210).

Outcome and Terms

After the conquest, the inhabitants of Khaybar were allowed to remain on their land and continue farming in exchange for half of their produce. This arrangement, known as musaqah or muzara'ah, became an important precedent in Islamic agricultural law. The conquest also yielded significant wealth and supplies for the Muslim community.

Significance

Khaybar demonstrated the growing strength of the Muslim state and secured the northern approach to Madinah. It also established important legal precedents for the treatment of conquered populations and agricultural partnerships.