Reading time: 2 minutes

Medina was in a state of siege. The Quraysh, alongside their formidable allies from the Ghatafan tribe, had encircled the city with hostile intent.

Within Medina, a dire threat loomed as the Banu Qurayza broke their pact with the Muslims, posing a danger from within.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) swiftly took action to safeguard the vulnerable, placing women, children, and the elderly in the fortified stronghold of al-Fari.

Among them was his noble aunt, Safiyyah (RA), and Hassan ibn Thabit (RA), a revered poet known more for his eloquent verses than for martial prowess.

One night, under the cloak of darkness, Safiyyah (RA) sensed something was wrong.

The stillness of the night was pierced by the subtle sounds of an intruder attempting to breach the fortress—a scout from Banu Qurayza sent to assess their defenses.

Realizing the imminent danger, she urgently approached Hassan (RA), as he was the only man there.

"O Hassan (RA)," she implored, "confront this enemy before he brings harm upon us."

Hassan (RA), with heartfelt honesty, replied, "O daughter of Abdul Muttalib, you know that facing an enemy in combat is not my strength. I fear I cannot fulfill this task."

Understanding the urgency and the fact that no one else could act, Safiyyah's (RA) determination strengthened.

Though she had never fought in her life and had no experience facing a trained soldier, Safiyyah (RA) drew upon an inner strength, determination, and trust in Allah and decided to take action.

She donned a cloak to conceal her identity and to appear as a man, arming herself with a dagger.

With incredible courage, she ventured into the night alone.

Moving silently, she approached the intruder.

She snuck up behind him, summoning her strength; she jumped onto his back.

In a decisive act of valor, she slit his throat.

Safiyyah (RA) knew she had to make a statement to deter any further intruders.

Determined to protect those within the fortress, she removed the intruder's head and cast it over the wall toward his awaiting companions.

The sight sent waves of fear through them, leading them to believe warriors heavily guarded the fortress.

Terrified, they abandoned any plans of attack and fled into the night.

Upon returning, Safiyyah (RA) addressed Hassan (RA) once more. "The immediate danger has passed," she said.

"Please go and retrieve his weapons and armor." Yet Hassan (RA), still grappling with his own limitations, replied, "I have no need of them."

The intruders never returned, and the women, children, and elderly remained protected in their fortress.

Safiyyah's (RA) actions that night were a profound testament to her courage, strength, and deep faith.

True bravery is not confined to the battlefield nor reserved for a select few.

It resides in the hearts of those who, when faced with adversity, stand firm, act decisively, and place their trust in the Almighty.