Fortress

Lore & Background

Khaybar was a Jewish settlement with multiple fortresses. The Banu Nadir, exiled from Medina in 625, settled there. After the death of Huyayy ibn Akhtab, Abu al-Rafi ibn Abi al-Huqayq led the Banu Nadir and approached neighboring tribes to raise an army against Muhammad. The Muslims assassinated him. His successor Usayr ibn Zarim also approached the Ghatafan, and was killed by Muslim emissaries. The battle ended with the surrender of the Jews, who were allowed to stay on condition of giving half their produce to the Muslims. The Jews of Khaybar were later expelled by the second Rashidun Caliph, Umar.

Reader's Guide

The oasis of Khaybar was divided into three regions: al-Natat, al-Shikk, and al-Katiba. Each region contained several fortresses or redoubts, including homes, storehouses, and stables. Fortresses were raised on hills or basalt rocks for defense. The Muslims besieged around eight to thirteen separate fortresses, including al-Bariyy, Kuthaibah, al-Qamush, al-Qullah, al-Wathin, an-Nathah, as-Salalim, Zubayr, ash-Shiqq, Second Bariy, Na'im, Sha'b, and Ubayy.

Did You Know?

• The Jewish commander Marhab ibn al-Harith was killed, reportedly by Ali ibn Abi Talib.
• Despite forces of 10–20,000 Jews vs 1,400 Muslims, deaths were remarkably low at 93 Jews and 18 Muslims, with 50 injured.
• The terms of surrender included seizure of wealth and jizya for non-Muslims in exchange for protection or emigration.
• Since the late 20th century, the conquest has become notable as the subject of the rallying slogan 'Khaybar, Khaybar, ya Yahud!' in the Arab–Israeli conflict.