What gives a person the strength to rise above physical, emotional, and psychological chains? The story of Bilal bin Rabah, one of the closest companions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), offers profound insight into how spirituality can transform lives and inspire the dismantling of external and internalized marginalizing and oppressive systems.
Born into slavery in pre-Islamic Arabia, Bilal faced a society that valued wealth and lineage over human dignity. As a Black man and a slave, he was dehumanized and subjected to severe abuse. Yet, within this system of oppression, Bilal’s encounter with Islam would unleash his true potential and set him on a path to freedom—both out and inward.
The teachings of Islam, particularly its revolutionary emphasis on equality and justice, resonated deeply with Bilal. Prophet Muhammad’s message declared that all humans were equal before God, like “the teeth of a comb.” For someone whose life had been defined by subjugation, this was a radical and liberating concept. Bilal embraced Islam, finding in it not only spiritual solace but also the strength to reject the status quo.
His newfound faith, however, came at a cost. Bilal’s master, Umayyah ibn Khalaf, subjected him to brutal torture in an attempt to force him to renounce the empowering spirituality of Islam. He was dragged through the streets, beaten, and left under the scorching desert sun with a heavy stone on his chest. Yet, through it all, Bilal’s unwavering response was “Ahad, Ahad” (“God is One”). His faith transcended the physical chains that bound him, granting him an inner freedom no tyrant could take away.
Bilal’s liberation came when Abu Bakr, a close companion of the Prophet, purchased his freedom and ensured he would never return to bondage. This act demonstrated how spiritual values, such as compassion and justice, translated into tangible action. With his freedom, Bilal rose to prominence in the nascent Muslim community, becoming the first muazzin—the caller to prayer. His beautiful voice became a symbol of Islam’s message of unity and equality, echoing across Medina and beyond: Allahu Akbar … Allahu Akbar … “God is greater … God is greater …” than anything and everything.
Bilal’s story is not just one of personal transformation but also a testament to how spirituality can challenge and change oppressive systems. Islam’s principles inspired a community that valued intrinsic humanity over privilege and broke down barriers of race and class. Bilal, once a slave, stood shoulder to shoulder with leaders and scholars, his life reflecting the egalitarian ideals of his faith.
This legacy carries profound lessons for today. Oppression continues in various forms—systemic racism, economic inequality, and social hierarchies. Bilal’s resilience reminds us that spirituality can be a source of strength, offering individuals the inner freedom to resist injustice. Moreover, his story illustrates the power of faith-based communities to challenge oppressive systems and work toward a more equitable world.
In our contemporary world, the principles that guided Bilal—justice, equality, and unwavering faith—remain relevant. They urge us to look beyond superficial differences and recognize the inherent dignity of all people. They call us to action, reminding us that systemic change begins with individual transformation and a commitment to higher values.
As we reflect on Bilal’s journey, may his legacy inspire us to seek not only personal liberation but also the collective freedom of all who are oppressed. Just as his voice once called people to prayer, may our voices today call for action to make the world a place where justice and compassion prevail.
Mustafa Abousaleh is the President of the Olive Branch Revival Foundation (), a registered charity empowering immigrants and newcomers from 60+ countries through community integration. With two decades of experience in non-profit leadership, he has founded over 10 organizations and delivered cultural sensitivity training to hundreds of institutions. A software developer and student of theology at Chicago Theological Seminary, Mustafa bridges faith, technology, and community building. He lives on 91原创 Island with his wife and two children.
You can read more articles on our interfaith blog, Spiritually Speaking, at /blogs/spiritually-speaking
*This article was published in the print edition of the Times 91原创 on Saturday, December 7th 2024
