When Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) concluded a peace treaty with the people of Hudaibiya, `Ali bin Abu Talib wrote the document and he mentioned in it, "Muhammad, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) ." The pagans said, "Don't write: 'Muhammad, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)', for if you were an apostle we would not fight with you." Allah's Apostle asked `Ali to rub it out, but `Ali said, "I will not be the person to rub it out." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) rubbed it out and made peace with them on the condition that the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions would enter Mecca and stay there for three days, and that they would enter with their weapons in cases.
Contextual Background
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 2698 describes the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, a pivotal moment in Islamic history where the Prophet demonstrated profound wisdom in peacemaking despite apparent concessions.
Scholarly Commentary on the Title Dispute
The pagans' objection to "Muhammad, Allah's Messenger" stemmed from their rejection of prophethood, not merely a titular dispute. Scholars note this was a test of faith versus pragmatism.
Imam al-Nawawi explains that the Prophet's acquiescence to remove the title demonstrates the Islamic principle that substance prevails over form when achieving greater objectives.
Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari emphasizes that the Prophet's action established that temporary concessions in wording are permissible when they lead to lasting peace and da'wah opportunities.
Ali's Refusal and Prophetic Action
Ali's refusal to erase the title reflects his deep reverence for the Prophet's status, a position scholars consider praiseworthy from a spiritual perspective.
The Prophet personally erasing the title shows his practical leadership and humility, prioritizing the peace process over personal honor.
Classical commentators note this incident exemplifies the hierarchy of Islamic values where saving lives and establishing peace takes precedence over ceremonial matters.
Wisdom in Peacemaking Terms
The three-day entry into Mecca, though seemingly limited, ultimately served as strategic da'wah exposure that softened hearts and prepared for the peaceful conquest.
Weapons in cases symbolized both security assurance for Quraysh and Muslim dignity preservation - a balanced approach scholars cite as exemplary conflict resolution.
This treaty, initially perceived as disadvantageous, became the foundation for mass conversions and ultimately the peaceful opening of Mecca, proving the Prophet's foresight.