Jafar Al-Tayar (RA), Jordan

In the expansive past of the great Islamic history, one figure whose devotion and valour echo across the centuries is Ja’far ibn Abi Talib (RA), may Allah be pleased with him. Born into the esteemed Banu Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe, he was the elder brother of Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), may Allah honour his face, and a close cousin of the blessed Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

Ja’far’s journey of faith began in the early days of Islam in Makkah, where he embraced the message of monotheism and accepted the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as the last messenger of Allah. His conviction led him to endure the trials and tribulations faced by the early Muslims in Makkah, solidifying his place among the pioneers of the faith.

When persecution by the Quraysh intensified, Ja’far, may Allah be pleased with him, was among the first group of Muslims to migrate to Abyssinia, now known as Ethiopia. There, under the just Christian King Negus, the small Muslim community found refuge. Ja’far, due to his eloquence and firm grasp of the tenets of Islam, was chosen to speak on behalf of the Muslims, successfully earning the respect and protection of the king.

Upon his return to Medina years later, Ja’far reconnected with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the expanding Muslim community. His wisdom and bravery were recognized, and he soon became a trusted advisor. These qualities were particularly evident at the Battle of Mu’tah in 629 AD. The battle, taking place in present-day Jordan, marked the first confrontation between the growing Muslim forces and the Byzantine Empire. In this crucial conflict, Ja’far was appointed one of the three commanders.

Displaying unyielding courage and fortitude, Ja’far held the banner of Islam high until his martyrdom, fighting relentlessly against the Byzantine forces. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ posthumously bestowed upon him the title “Ja’far al-Tayyar” (Ja’far, the flyer) as a testament to his heroism, after seeing him in a vision with two wings in paradise, compensating for the loss of his two arms in the battle.

Today, the Maqam of Ja’far ibn Abi Talib in Jordan stands as a monumental testament to his sacrifice and unwavering faith. Set amidst the peaceful landscapes of Jordan, the site offers not only historical and spiritual significance but also an opportunity for visitors to connect with the time-honoured tradition of Islamic bravery and martyrdom. The visit to this holy site forms a key part of Islamic tours, offering pilgrims from around the world a chance to pay their respects, reflect on the sacrifices made by the Sahaba, and draw inspiration from their stories of resilience and devotion. 

The journey to this resting place of a noble companion of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is not merely a physical journey, but a spiritual voyage that rekindles the light of Iman in the hearts of the believers, reminding them of the profound roots of their faith.