Detailed Account

The Battle of Badr began as an attempt to intercept a Makkan trade caravan led by Abu Sufyan returning from Syria with considerable wealth. Learning of this plan through intelligence networks, Abu Sufyan altered his route and simultaneously sent word to Makkah requesting reinforcements. The Makkans rapidly mobilized a formidable force of approximately 1,000 well-equipped soldiers, including their chief warriors. Meanwhile, the Prophet ﷺ departed Madinah with 313 lightly-armed men, leaving Abdullah ibn Umm Maktum in charge of the city. Learning that Abu Sufyan's caravan had escaped and a large Makkan army was approaching, the Prophet ﷺ consulted his companions. While the Muhajiroon expressed immediate readiness for combat, the Ansar's position was crucial as the defensive agreement didn't obligate them to offensive operations. Their spokesman Sa'd ibn Mu'adh pledged unwavering support: 'By Him who sent you with truth, if you were to take us to the sea and plunge into it, we would plunge with you.' The forces met at the wells of Badr, where the Prophet ﷺ implemented strategic preparations: securing water sources, building a command shelter on elevated ground, and organizing troops in formation. Despite being outnumbered and under-equipped, the Muslims achieved an overwhelming victory, killing approximately 70 Makkan leaders (including Abu Jahl) and capturing 70 prisoners, while losing only 14 martyrs. The Quran describes divine assistance through: rain providing refreshment and firm ground; the Prophet's ﷺ throwing of sand that miraculously affected enemy eyes; and reinforcement by angels who fought alongside believers. This unexpected victory transformed the balance of power in Arabia—increasing the Islamic state's credibility among Bedouin tribes, strengthening believers' faith in divine support, and beginning Quraysh's decline. The Quran dedicates much of Surah Al-Anfal to this battle, describing it as the 'Day of Criterion' that distinguished truth from falsehood.