“I would throw myself in the ranks of the enemies until I would be certain that I would not come out alive. And here I am, dying in my bed like cattle die.” ~ Khalid Ibn Walid

This is a brief summary of the life of Khalid ibn Walid (RA) and does not encompass all aspects of his life. It is not a comprehensive biography but rather provides an overview of the main events in his life to gain insight into his character.
Khalid bin Walid (RA), also known as “Saifullah” (The Sword of Allah), was a prominent military commander and companion of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during the early days of Islam. He played a crucial role in the conquest of Arabia and is regarded as one of the greatest military tacticians in history. Khalid bin Walid’s remarkable achievements in battle, along with his unwavering faith and loyalty to Islam, have made him a legendary figure and an inspiration for Muslims around the world.
Early Life and Conversion to Islam:
Khalid bin Walid(RA) was born in the tribe of BanuMakhzum in Mecca, Arabia, around 592 CE. He belonged to a prominent and powerful clan known for their military prowess. From a young age, Khalid displayed exceptional skills in warfare and quickly gained a reputation as a skilled fighter and commander.
Despite his military prowess, Khalid(RA) initially opposed Islam and fought against the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)at the Battle of Uḥud (625), during the early years of Islam. However, his outlook changed after witnessing the conquest of Mecca in 630 CE, when he realized the truth of Islam and embraced the faith. His conversion to Islam was a pivotal moment in his life, and he immediately pledged his loyalty to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Military Exploits:
Khalid bin Walid’s (RA) military genius and bravery were evident in numerous battles that he fought alongside the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and after his demise during the era of the rightly guided caliphs. He was known for his exceptional skills in strategy, tactics, and leadership, which earned him the title of “Saifullah” (The Sword of Allah).
One of his most notable achievements was the Battle of Mu’tah in 629 CE, where he commanded the Muslim army in the absence of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In 629 A.D., the Holy Prophet (PBUH) sent an expedition under the command of Zaid bin Harith against the Syrians. In the confrontation that took place at Mutah, Zaid bin Harith was martyred. The command passed to Jafar bin Abu Talib and then Abdullah bin Rawahah who too were both martyred. At that critical juncture, Khalid bin Walid took over the command and by the superb strategy he succeeded in retrieving the position and bringing back the Muslim forces safely to Medina. During the battle, Khalid bin Walid(RA) broke 8 swords. Because of this, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) gave him the title of “Saifullah” or “The Sword of Allah.” The sword that could not be broken!
Khalid’s most famous and decisive victories came during the Islamic conquests of Arabia, known as the Ridda Wars, and the conquest of Persia and the Byzantine Empire, and won numerous battles, including the Battle of Yarmouk, which is considered one of the most decisive battles in history. He played a key role in the successful campaigns against apostate tribes in Arabia, who had renounced Islam after the death of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His strategic brilliance and military prowess were instrumental in bringing these tribes back to Islam and reuniting the Arabian Peninsula under the leadership of the Caliphate.
Battles fought by Khalid bin Walid (RA):
Against Islam:
Battle of Uhud (625), Battle of the Trench (627).
For Islam:
Battle of Mu’tah (629), Conquest of Mecca (629 or 630), Battle of Hunayn (630), Battle of Buzakha (632), Battle of Aqraba (633), Battle of Dhat al-Salasil (633), Battle of Nahr al-Mar’a (633), Battle of Ullays (633), Battle of Walaja (633), Capture of al-Hira (633), Siege of Anbar (633), Siege of Ayn al-Tamr (633), Battle of Firaz (634), Battle of MarjRahit (634), Siege of Bosra (634), Battle of Ajnadayn (634), Battle of Fahl (634 or 635), Siege of Damascus (634–635), Battle of Yarmouk (636), Siege of Emesa (637–638), Siege of Aleppo (637), Battle of Qinnasrin (637–638).
Character and Legacy:
Khalid bin Walid (RA) was known not only for his military skills but also for his exemplary character and piety. He was deeply committed to the teachings of Islam and embodied the virtues of courage, justice, and compassion. He was a man of unwavering faith, deep humility, and profound wisdom. He was known for his chivalry, generosity, and fairness in dealing with his enemies and conquered peoples. He was deeply respected and loved by his soldiers, who admired his courage, leadership, and devotion to Islam. He was known for his generosity towards the poor and needy, and his upright character earned him the respect and admiration of both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
Khalid bin Walid’s (RA) legacy as the “Sword of Allah” continues to inspire Muslims today. He is considered a role model for Muslims, particularly for his unwavering faith, courage, and strategic brilliance. His military exploits and leadership qualities are studied in military academies around the world, and he is often regarded as one of the greatest military tacticians in history. His campaigns and victories have left a lasting impact on the history of Islam and the world.
Khalid bin Walid’s (RA) contributions to the spread of Islam and the establishment of the Islamic State were immense. His military genius and leadership skills were critical in the early expansion of the Islamic empire, and he played a pivotal role in consolidating the Muslim conquests. His strategic prowess and battlefield tactics were renowned, and he had an uncanny ability to inspire and lead his troops to victory in the face of daunting challenges.
The dying man, whose body bore the marks of countless sword, arrow, and spear wounds, uttered his final words:”I have sought martyrdom in a hundred battles. Why could I not have died in battle?”
“You could not die in battle”, replied his friend. “You must understand that when the Messenger of Allah, on whom be the blessings of Allah and peace, named you Saifullah – the Sword of Allah, he predetermined that you would not fall in battle. If you had been killed by an unbeliever it would have meant that Allah’s sword had been broken by an enemy of Allah, and that could never be.”

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Daawar Bashir Ganaie