Last Campaign of the Prophet
The final military expedition led by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) alongside his companions was the Battle of Tabuk. This notable event took place in the month of Rajab during the ninth year of the Hijrah. As the Roman army advanced towards Medina to confront the Muslims, they reached the region of Balqa in Jordan. The Prophet, eager to engage the enemy without hesitation, instructed his companions to prepare for the encounter. Consequently, around thirty thousand Muslims mobilized under his command, among whom were some hypocrites attempting to demoralize the Prophet and justify their unwillingness to confront the Roman forces.
Arrival of the Muslims at Tabuk
The Muslim forces journeyed long distances, covering a month’s worth of travel. During this month, they faced numerous challenges and endured significant trials. Upon reaching Tabuk to confront their adversaries, they were taken by surprise to find that the Roman army was not present, despite expectations. The Muslims soon realized that the Romans had retreated, as their leaders doubted their ability to stand against the thirty thousand strong Muslim army, under the leadership of the Prophet himself. Consequently, they fled. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) remained in the vicinity for a considerable time, reported to be around twenty days, waiting for the Roman forces to reappear. However, nothing of the sort occurred, and eventually, the Muslims returned home victoriously.
Return of the Army to Medina
On the journey back to Medina, the Prophet passed by the Mosque of Dhirar, which had been constructed by the hypocrites, and he ordered its destruction. Upon entering the city, many of the hypocrites approached him to apologize and explain their absence from the campaign. Among them were three companions who had missed the expedition without valid excuses, including Ka’b ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him). They acknowledged their faults in front of the Prophet, who then isolated them from the rest of the community for fifty nights. It was only after this period that Allah revealed the news of His forgiveness and pardon for them.