Relationship with the Prophet ﷺ
Salama had a direct and deeply loyal relationship with the Prophet. The Prophet personally praised him in front of the army after his heroic pursuit at Dhu Qarad, awarding him a double share of the spoils. Salama's unconditional obedience and physical sacrifice for the Prophet's safety made him a beloved figure in the prophetic household.
Key Life Events
Pledged allegiance at Bay'at al-Ridwan under the tree at Hudaybiyya
Single-handedly pursued raiders at Dhu Qarad recovering the Prophet's camels
Participated in the conquest of Mecca
Passed away in the desert where he had retired for seclusion
Full Biography
Salama ibn al-Akwa' al-Aslami was renowned for his extraordinary speed on foot, which made him one of the most effective fighters in the Prophet's army. He was so fast that he could outrun horses over short distances, a talent he put to use in multiple military engagements. His most celebrated feat was at the expedition of Dhu Qarad, where he single-handedly pursued raiders who had stolen the Prophet's camels, harassing them with arrows and recovering much of what was stolen before the Muslim force arrived.
He pledged his allegiance to the Prophet under the tree at al-Hudaybiyya in the famous Bay'at al-Ridwan, and participated in over twenty campaigns. He lived a long life and in his later years moved to the desert for ascetic seclusion, passing away there in 74 AH. He was known for his directness, physical prowess, and complete devotion to the Prophet.
Famous Quotes
"The Prophet said to me: the best of our foot soldiers today is Salama." (after the expedition of Dhu Qarad)
Lessons for Your Life
Every natural gift, when dedicated to Allah, becomes a weapon for truth.
Individual bravery can change the outcome of a collective crisis.
Physical fitness is an Islamic virtue when directed toward righteous goals.
Living simply in old age is the fitting end of a life spent in noble service.
How to Be Like Them
Want to walk in the footsteps of Salama ibn al-Akwa'? Begin with these practical steps drawn from their life.
- 1
Every natural gift, when dedicated to Allah, becomes a weapon for truth.
- 2
Individual bravery can change the outcome of a collective crisis.
- 3
Physical fitness is an Islamic virtue when directed toward righteous goals.
- 4
Living simply in old age is the fitting end of a life spent in noble service.