THE TREATY OF AL-HUDAYBIYYAH WAS EXPECTED TO LAST

• A. ten years ✓
• B. three years
• C. ten months
• D. six months

The answer to the question is: A. ten years

The Treaty of Al-Hudaybiyyah, also known as the Truce of Hudaybiyyah, was an important agreement in the early history of Islam. It was signed in 628 CE between the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the Quraysh tribe of Mecca. The treaty was expected to last for ten years and aimed to establish a period of peace and cessation of hostilities between the two parties.

The background to the Treaty of Al-Hudaybiyyah lies in the conflict between Muhammad and his followers, who had migrated from Mecca to Medina, and the Quraysh tribe, who opposed Muhammad’s growing influence. The treaty was negotiated after a series of skirmishes and battles between the two sides. The terms of the treaty included a ceasefire for ten years, during which both parties agreed not to engage in hostilities or support any hostile actions against each other or their allies.

The signing of the Treaty of Al-Hudaybiyyah had significant implications for the early Muslim community. Despite some initial objections from Muhammad’s followers, the treaty allowed for a period of relative peace, which enabled the Muslims to focus on spreading their message and consolidating their position in Arabia. Additionally, the treaty allowed for diplomatic relations between the Muslims and other tribes, leading to an increase in conversions to Islam.

The treaty was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it allowed for a temporary truce between the Muslims and the Quraysh, providing a period of relative peace in the region. Secondly, it enabled the Muslims to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca, which was a central religious obligation in Islam. Thirdly, it provided an opportunity for diplomatic negotiations and interactions between the two parties.

However, the peace established by the treaty was short-lived. In 630 CE, just two years after its signing, the Quraysh violated the terms of the treaty by supporting an attack on one of Muhammad’s allies. This violation led to the eventual conquest of Mecca by Muhammad and his followers, marking a turning point in the consolidation of Islamic power in Arabia.

In conclusion, while the Treaty of Al-Hudaybiyyah was expected to last for ten years and initially provided a period of peace and stability, it ultimately led to a significant shift in power dynamics in early Islamic history.