1. Bilal Ibn Rabah (RA) was kept as slave
An Abyssinian, Bilal (RA) was kept as slave in Makkah. He (RA) was a slave of Ummayah bin Khalaf.
2 His master was a virulent enemy of Islam
Ummayah couldn’t tolerate the fact that Islam was being spread. Yet, Bilal (RA) his Ethiopian slave, converted into a Muslim.
Ummayah bin Khalaf was planning either to kill Him or to make him change his religion. But believe of Bilal (RA) on Allah didn’t let him fear from His master. He got succeeded in his plannings and sent Him for a punishment.
3. The inhuman punishment
In the Arabian Desert, Bilal (RA) was laid under the sparkling sun on the hot sand. Then, heavyweight hot rocks were placed on his body to make the situation worse.
He was burning due to the hot sand from the back of His body whereas, the upper body was burnt by the hot pieces of rocks. Also, He wasn’t able to move due to the weight of rocks.
4. The nights of lashes:
His believe made His master angrier. Bin Khalaf started lashing Him every night. He was tortured alternatively by Ummayah bin Khalaf and Abu Jahl.
5. Abu Bakr (RA)
Bilal (RA)’s punishment ended and He started living a free life as Abu Bakr (RA) bought him from Ummayah.
6. Bilal RA was the first Muezzin of Islam
Allah Almighty rewarded Him for His patience and He was made the Muazzin for the Mosque of Prophet (PBUH).
7. The death of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
After the death of Prophet (PBUH), Bilal (RA) wasn’t able to continue living in Madinah. He left Madina but returned after few days when He saw Prophet (PBUH) in a Dream demanding Him to pay a visit.
8. The request of Hasan and Hussain (RA):
When Bilal (RA) moved back in Madina, Hussain and Hasan (RA) requested Him to give Azan. After few years, Bilal (RA) finally left Madinah forever.
He died in Damascus in 20 AH. His tomb is located in Bab al Saghir, a graveyard in Damascus.
The ongoing dialogue between the leadership of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan and the public continues to play a vital role in addressing various social and religious issues. Each appeal submitted by citizens during the public receptions is given due attention and is being resolved appropriately.
On October 29, the First Deputy Chairman of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, Homidjon Ishmatbekov, received citizens and listened to their appeals, complaints, and suggestions.
During the meeting, issues related to mosque conditions, the work of imams, Hajj and Umrah matters, family concerns, and requests for financial assistance were discussed in detail.
Participants seeking advice on family matters were provided with guidance and Sharia-based recommendations, while those in need of material support received assistance in accordance with the established procedures.
Citizens expressed gratitude and heartfelt prayers, noting the sincere attention and care shown during the meeting.
Indeed, easing the burdens of others and contributing to the resolution of their troubles is among the most virtuous deeds. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“Whoever fulfills the need of his brother, Allah will fulfill his need. Whoever relieves a Muslim from a hardship, Allah will relieve him from one of the hardships of the Day of Resurrection.”
— Narrated by Imam al-Bukhari
Such public receptions are also being held every Wednesday across the country by the regional branches of the Muslim Board and in all mosques under the supervision of local imams.
Press Service of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan