Physical Strength

The physical strength of Rasoolullah (S.A.W) is a Mu’jiza (miracle) of His which mankind is unable to understand. We have narrated a few Hadith below demonstrating His physical power.

The Holy Prophet (S.A.W) Wrestles Rukaana

The famous wrestler of the Arab world, Rukaana, once passed Rasoolullah (S.A.W), who invited him to Islam, He replied, “O Muhammad (S.A.W), if you defeat me in wrestling I shall accept it”, to which Rasoolullah (S.A.W) agreed; and subsequently beat him on the first and second occasion.

The bewildered Rukaana replied. “Muhammad (S.A.W)! Oath on Allah (S.W.T)! You possess a unique glory, as no one in the Arab world has been able to put me down, but you’ve been able to beat me twice”.

Some scholars state that Rukaana immediately accepted Islam, while others say that it was on the Conquest of Makkah. (Zarqaani, Vol. 4, Pg. 291)

The ‘Challenge’ of Yazeed bin Rukaana

Yazeed was the son of the very Rukaana mentioned in the above Hadith.

He approached the Prophet (S.A.W) with 300 sheep and challenged him to a wrestling contest. The Holy Prophet (S.A.W) asked what He would receive as a reward if He (S.A.W) defeated him. Yazeed answered, “100 sheep”. Thus, Rasoolullah (S.A.W) agreed and, after shaking hands, Rasoolullah (S.A.W) immediately put him down to the ground.

Yazeed then gave the promised prize money and challenged the Holy Prophet (S.A.W) for a second time with the same amount of prize money as the first. Rasoolullah (S.A.W) put him down again. The defeat made Yazeed more eager for another rematch. Only to be defeated for the third time.

While Yazeed was handing over his last 100 sheep to Rasoolullah (S.A.W), he said, “O Muhammad (S.A.W), all of the Arabia is witness that none have been able to defeat me, yet you have thrice. I now have belief that you are the Prophet of Allah (S.W.T)”. He then read the kalmia and entered Islam. Rasoolullah (S.A.W) became pleased with this and gave back his 300 sheep. (Zarqaani, Vol. 4, Pg. 292)