The citation Tabaqat al-Kubra . is a small but powerful demonstration of why Ibn Sa‘d’s work remains a foundational pillar of Islamic scholarship. By meticulously preserving the biographies of the first generations of Muslims with a rigorous, isnad-based approach, Ibn Sa‘d built a bridge connecting the age of the Prophet to all subsequent generations. This specific entry, part of a carefully organized tabaqat system, offers scholars a reliable piece of data within a vast and interconnected network of transmitters and narratives. Its true value is realized not in isolation, but as part of a timeless intellectual project that continues to illuminate the formative centuries of Islam.
: The hadith might relate to the peaceful conquest of Mecca, which occurred during the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad.
If the entry refers to the specific narration regarding (a prominent figure often listed in these sections regarding Badr), it captures the tension of reconnaissance. Umayr, who was initially an enemy, is depicted surveying the Muslim ranks. The narration serves as a micro-history: it moves the lens from the macro-strategy of armies to the individual interactions between men on the brink of battle.
: He consulted written works, including earlier biographies, histories, and collections of hadiths. tabaqat al kubra. vol. 3 pg. 269 h. 3714
"Ibn Sa'd said: , on the authority of his father..."
The variant of the text containing the passive phrasing ( Nukihtu ) does not appear in any authoritative canonical Hadith texts (such as the Sihah al-Sittah ). It only exists as an isolated historical report subject to printing errors and scribal corruption. Broader Context of the Topic
Depending on the specific editorial style of the modern printing press, numbering systems function differently: The citation Tabaqat al-Kubra
For a historian or hadith scholar, the text of the biography is only part of the story. Equally, if not more, important is how Ibn Sa'd transmitted this information. A fuller examination of the entry reveals a transmission chain:
According to online discussions and digital archives of specific editions, this reference contains a statement attributed to 'Umar ibn al-Khattab regarding his transition from the pre-Islamic era ( ) to Islam. Reported Statement:
(H. 3714) is often cited in discussions regarding the personal reflections of Umar ibn al-Khattab The Statement: This specific entry, part of a carefully organized
To understand why page 269 and hadith (or biographical report) 3714 hold such value, one must look at how Ibn Sa'd systematically structured his text:
Umar ibn al-Khattab’s biography sits prominently within the Emigrant ( Muhajirun ) section of Volume 3. The sub-chapters extensively detail his lineage, conversion, character traits, and administrative policies.