When we talk about Bilal ibn Rabah (r.a.), most of us remember him as the freed slave who became the first muadhdhin in history, chosen by the Prophet (s.a.w.) to summon the believers to prayer.

But there’s another side to Bilal’s (r.a.) story that we don’t talk about enough: the side that teaches us about endurance, strength, and unwavering faith.

As Mustafa Briggs shared in the previous event, Bilal’s (r.a.) early life demanded strength and endurance for his heart to remain steadfast in belief despite facing severe torture as a slave.

The Struggle that Forged His Strength

The story of his life isn’t just a testament of having strong faith but rather it is one of remarkable examples of mental resilience.

“It’s okay not to be okay.”

“It’s human to break under pressure.”

While these words do bring comfort and relief, but there’s also another truth we must remember: It’s just as important for us to learn how to endure when we are tested and to build resilience through having complete faith in Him.

When Bilal (r.a.) accepted Islam, his master, Umayyah ibn Khalaf, inflicted some of the most extreme forms of torture upon him. He was stretched out under the blazing sun, beaten relentlessly, and had a massive stone placed upon his chest.

Despite the unbearable pain, Bilal (r.a.) did not waver. Instead, with every breath, he repeated:

“Ahad, Ahad” 

These uttered words declared the Oneness of Allah (s.w.t.) with a conviction that no suffering could ever silence.

Resilience rooted in Remembrance

Allah (s.w.t.) reminds us in the Qur’an:

Let us pause to reflect on this:

Our struggles might be different from Bilal’s (r.a.) but the essence of endurance remains the same. Regardless if it’s the way out or the way forward, every step should be through the wisdom of our Lord.

That’s how Bilal (r.a.) built his resilience; not by avoiding pain, but by anchoring himself in faith so deeply that even brute torture could not shake him. His test was immense, but his faith was far greater.

To anyone going through a difficult time: it’s okay to feel discouraged. But don’t let it consume you. And most importantly, always seek for His guidance and help.

May Allah (s.w.t.) grant us the strength to stay firm in our faith when we are tested and the tranquility that comes only by trusting Him completely.

Wallahua’lam.