The call to Islam on Mount Safa
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The Messenger of Allah kept his mission secret for three years. Then Allah commanded him to display His religion openly, saying, 'Loudly proclaim what you are commanded and turn away from the idol-worshippers.'(l5: 94) He also said, 'Warn your clan, your nearest kin, and lower your wing to those of the believers who follow you' (26: 214-215) and 'Say: I am the clear warner.' (15: 89)
The Prophet climbed up on to the mountain of Safa and called out as loudly as he could, 'Ya Sabahah!'
This was a well-known cry used to assemble the community in an emergency. When there was any danger of an enemy attacking a city or a tribe, the call, 'Ya Sabahah' would ring out. The Quraysh were always quick to respond. They gathered round the Messenger of Allah, who said, 'O Banu Abdul-Muttalib! O Banu Fihr! O Banu Ka'b! If I told you that there were horses on the other side of this mountain about to attack you, would you believe me!'
The Arabs were practical and realistic. They saw in front of them a man noted for his truthfulness, trustworthiness and sincerity standing on a mountain. He was able to see both what was in front of him and behind him, while they could only see what was in front of them. Their intelligence and sense of justice allowed them to confirm this statement.
'Yes,' they replied.
Then the Messenger of Allah said, 'I warn you of a terrible punishment.'
The people were silent, except Abu Lahab who said, 'May you perish for this! Did you only summon us here for this!'