Bilal Ibn Rabah Al-Habashi

Bilal Ibn Rabah Al-Habashi

Bilal ibn Rabah (Arabic: بلال بن رباح‎) or Bilal al-Habashi (AD 580-640) was an African of Ethiopian heritage companion of Islamic prophet Muhammad, born in Mecca who is considered as the first muezzin chosen by the prophet himself.

He was among the emancipated slaves freed by Abu Bakr (see Muhammad's views on slavery) and was known for his beautiful voice with which he called people to their prayers. His name can also be known as, "Bilal ibn Riyah" or "ibn Rabah" and he is sometimes known as "Bilal al-Habashi" or "Bilal the one from Habesha (today's Ethiopia)". He died sometime between 638 to 642, when he was just over sixty years old.

Bilal Ibn Rabah, was an emancipated slave of key importance in Islam. He is said to have been one of the most trusted and loyal Sahabah (companion) of Muhammad. His respected stature during the birth of Islam is often cited by Muslims as evidence of the importance of pluralism and racial equality in the foundations of the religion.