alSahaba

Al-Sahaba (Arabic الصحابة, "the companions") refers to the companions of the Prophet Muhammad in Islamic tradition. The term generally denotes those who met the Prophet Muhammad, believed in his message, and died as Muslims. It includes both men and women who saw him and supported his mission, at least during his lifetime.

The Sahaba played a central role in the early Islamic community after Muhammad's death, helping to preserve and transmit his teachings. They participated in key events, including the early battles of Badr, Uhud, and the trench, and helped establish the governance and religious practices of the Medina community. A substantial portion of hadith literature is transmitted through the Sahaba, either directly or via their successors, and their reports form a primary source for Islamic jurisprudence and theology.

In Sunni Islam, the Sahaba are held as the best generation of Muslims and the main chain of transmission for the Prophet's teachings. The category encompasses a wide range of individuals with varying actions and reputations; while many are venerated for piety and fidelity, some are criticized by later scholars for political choices or conduct. In Shia Islam, viewpoints about certain companions differ, and some are viewed less favorably in historical narratives, reflecting divergent assessments of early Islamic history.

Examples of well-known Sahaba include Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, Umar ibn al-Khattab, Uthman ibn Affan, Ali ibn Abi Talib; Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, Aisha bint Abi Bakr, Bilal ibn Rabah, Salman al-Farsi, Suhayb ar-Rumi, and many others.