Year of Sorrow (ʿĀm al-Ḥuzn)

 


One of the most moving and historically true stories from the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the Year of Sorrow (ʿĀm al-Ḥuzn)—a period of deep personal loss and immense spiritual endurance that shows both his humanity and his unwavering trust in God.

📅 The Year of Sorrow (619 CE)

This year was named so because two of the most beloved and supportive people in the Prophet’s life passed away within months of each other:

  1. Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA) — his wife, partner, and first believer.

  2. Abu Talib — his uncle and protector.

💔 The Death of Khadijah

Khadijah was not only the Prophet’s wife but also his closest confidante. She was the first person to believe in his prophethood, giving him comfort, emotional strength, and financial support during the earliest and hardest years of Islam.

When she passed away after 25 years of marriage, the Prophet ﷺ was heartbroken. Her absence left a deep emotional void in his life.

He once said:

"She believed in me when no one else did. She accepted Islam when people rejected me. And she supported me when there was no one else to lend me a hand."

🛡️ The Death of Abu Talib

Shortly after Khadijah’s death, Abu Talib also died. Though he never accepted Islam, Abu Talib had protected Muhammad ﷺ from the Quraysh’s persecution for years. With his passing, the Prophet lost his political shield.

This emboldened the Quraysh to escalate their abuse and hostility, leading to greater physical and emotional danger for the Prophet and his followers.

🏙️ The Trip to Ṭā’if

In the wake of this sorrow, the Prophet traveled to Ṭā’if, hoping the people there would support his message. Instead, the leaders mocked and rejected him. They incited the town’s youth to pelt him with stones until he bled.

He took shelter in a garden and made this unforgettable duʿāʾ (supplication):

“O Allah, to You I complain of my weakness, my lack of support, and the humiliation I am made to receive... If You are not angry with me, I do not care.”

🌟 God’s Response

After this painful year, Allah gave the Prophet an immense spiritual gift: the Isra and Mi'raj—his miraculous night journey to Jerusalem and ascension through the heavens, where he met previous prophets and received the command for the five daily prayers.

It was a divine reassurance that he was not alone, and that his mission had celestial support.

🧠 Lessons from This Story

  • Even prophets experience grief and heartbreak.

  • Patience in suffering leads to divine reward and guidance.

  • True faith shines brightest in moments of darkness.

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