Mohsin Aziz

The first Azaan in Islam was given by Bilal Ibn Rabah (R.A.). After the death of the Prophet, Hazrat Bilal found it difficult to give azaan (Islamic call to prayer). Whenever he would reach the sentence “Ashhadu Anna Muhmmad ur Rasoolullah” he would break down in tears and found it difficult to finish the azaan. So much so that he left Madina and settled in Syria participating in

Many years later, when he was in Madina, Umar Ibn Khattab (R.A.), during his caliphate, requested him to give azaan. Bilal agreed reluctantly. The moment his voice rang over Madina, companions were overcome with joy and emotions. It is said that the whole of Madina rushed towards the Masjid Al Nabawi to witness the occasion. It is said that men and women wept uncontrollably. Bilal’s voice reminded them of the times of the prophet. This is a cherished story for Muslims even after the passage of more than1400 years because it reminds them of the immense love for the prophet and has resulted in countless poems that describe the scene.

“Reh gai rasm-e-azaan rooh-e-Bilali na rahi”

“Falsafa reh gaya, talqeen-e-Ghazali na rahi”

Ritual of azaan remains, the soul of bilal is missing

Philosophy of Ghazali remains, the spirit is missing

Sir Mohammad Iqbal (Jawab e Shikwa)