When it comes to the captivating animated film ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero,’ it takes us on an inspiring journey from slavery to the establishment of Islam. This film showcases the unwavering faith, courage, and forgiveness of Bilal, a pivotal figure in Islamic history. Released in 2015, ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero’ tells the story from the perspective of Bilal, one of Prophet Muhammad’s companions. Let’s delve into this epic tale and explore the key points that make this film a must-watch.
Bilal’s story begins in the city of Mecca, where he lives as a slave. Mecca, at that time, was immersed in polytheism, with idol worship and corruption prevalent throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Living outside the city with his mother and sister, Bilal’s peaceful life takes a dramatic turn when they are attacked and enslaved by the Byzantine army. Umayyah, a nobleman from the Quraysh tribe, becomes their owner.
Growing up in Mecca, Bilal witnesses the idol worship and corruption firsthand. However, amidst this darkness, he finds solace in a white horse, which becomes his companion. Bilal’s hardships continue as he defends his sister from Shafwan, Umayyah’s son, resulting in punishment from Umayyah. Despite facing adversity, Bilal’s faith remains unshaken.
A pivotal moment occurs when Bilal rescues a beggar child from stealing. This act catches the attention of Abu Bakr, one of Prophet Muhammad’s closest companions, who speaks about the importance of equality among humanity. As Bilal meets Abu Bakr multiple times, he starts embracing his teachings and gaining a deeper understanding of Islam.
Bilal’s faith is put to the test as he faces torture for his beliefs. Yet, he remains steadfast, refusing to renounce his faith. Help arrives in the form of Hamzah, the Prophet’s uncle, who not only rescues Bilal but also imparts valuable fighting skills. The journey continues as Bilal accompanies the Muslim migration to Medina, where he actively contributes to building the Nabawi Mosque.
One of Bilal’s significant contributions is becoming the first person to recite the call to prayer, a key moment in the development of Islamic rituals. As the film progresses, it depicts crucial events in the early years of Islam, including the Battle of Badr and the conquest of Mecca. Through Bilal’s perspective, we witness the triumphs and tribulations of the Muslim community.
In a touching turn of events, Bilal returns to Mecca during its conquest by the Muslims. He finds himself face-to-face with Shafwan, the very person who caused him great suffering. Instead of seeking revenge, Bilal forgives Shafwan for his actions, showcasing the power of forgiveness and compassion.
As the story reaches its climax, Bilal embarks on a quest to discover the fate of his sister. This leads him to confront Shafwan once again. However, this time, forgiveness is at the forefront, and Bilal forgives Shafwan before being joyfully reunited with his sister, Ghufaira.
In conclusion, ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero’ is an animated film that beautifully portrays the inspiring journey of Bilal from slavery to becoming a key figure in the establishment of Islam. This cinematic masterpiece highlights the themes of faith, courage, and forgiveness, resonating with audiences worldwide. The film allows viewers to immerse themselves in the early years of Islam, experiencing significant events and gaining a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by its followers. With its captivating storytelling and rich animation, ‘Bilal: A New Breed of Hero’ is an absolute must-watch for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
