(from the companions of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)) When Suhail bin `Amr agreed to the Treaty (of Hudaibiya), one of the things he stipulated then, was that the Prophet (ﷺ) should return to them (i.e. the pagans) anyone coming to him from their side, even if he was a Muslim; and would not interfere between them and that person. The Muslims did not like this condition and got disgusted with it. Suhail did not agree except with that condition. So, the Prophet (ﷺ) agreed to that condition and returned Abu Jandal to his father Suhail bin `Amr. Thenceforward the Prophet (ﷺ) returned everyone in that period (of truce) even if he was a Muslim. During that period some believing women emigrants including Um Kulthum bint `Uqba bin Abu Muait who came to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and she was a young lady then. Her relative came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and asked him to return her, but the Prophet (ﷺ) did not return her to them for Allah had revealed the following Verse regarding women: "O you who believe! When the believing women come to you as emigrants. Examine them, Allah knows best as to their belief, then if you know them for true believers, Send them not back to the unbelievers, (for) they are not lawful (wives) for the disbelievers, Nor are the unbelievers lawful (husbands) for them (60.10)
Conditions of Hudaybiyah: A Test of Faith
The Treaty of Hudaybiyah, as narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari 2711 and 2712, presents one of the most profound tests of the Muslim community's obedience to divine command through the Prophet's leadership. When Suhail bin Amr stipulated that Muslims fleeing Mecca must be returned, this condition appeared outwardly detrimental to the fledgling Muslim community.
The companions' discomfort with this condition demonstrates their natural concern for fellow believers, yet the Prophet's acceptance teaches us that apparent worldly disadvantages may conceal divine wisdom. The temporary hardship paved the way for greater victories, as this treaty ultimately led to the peaceful spread of Islam throughout Arabia.
Divine Intervention Regarding Believing Women
The distinction made between male and female emigrants through the revelation of Surah Al-Mumtahinah (60:10) demonstrates Allah's perfect wisdom in legislation. While Muslim men were returned according to the treaty terms, believing women were protected from being sent back to disbelief.
This divine exception preserves the sanctity of marriage and protects women's faith, as they would be compelled to live with unbelieving husbands in an environment hostile to Islam. The examination of women's belief before accepting them as emigrants ensures the integrity of this divine protection.
Scholarly Commentary on Treaty Conditions
Classical scholars emphasize that the Prophet's compliance with seemingly unfavorable conditions demonstrates the binding nature of treaties in Islam, even when they contain difficult provisions. This establishes the principle that Muslims must honor their covenants.
The gradual revelation of Islamic rulings, as seen in the different treatment of male and female emigrants, illustrates the wisdom of progressive legislation in Islam. Each ruling came at its appointed time to address specific circumstances while establishing eternal principles for the Muslim community.