The Muslim forces advanced to the outskirts of Mecca. It was a furious siege that lasted for nearly a month, until finally the city fell to Muhammad. In 630 AD, the terrified people of Mecca braced for the onslaught. Muhammad's army was returning home, now ten thousand strong. The vanquished knew the terrible fate that awaited them.

 

According to the moulds of tribal warfare, the Meccans could expect a big revenge. The men are usually killed; women and children are sold into slavery. There is little pity for the loser in a tribal war. Of course that's standard around the world.

 

But Muhammad had a surprise in store for the fallen city. 

 

When Muhammad came into Mecca, and not only did not carry out a bloody revenge, but actually embraced the very Meccans who had fought him for three years and attempted to annihilate him. It was very shocking to people in his milieu. So within the very founding of a religion, one finds episodes of great generosity, often extraordinary acts of kindness and mercy.

 

But not all of Mecca escaped Muhammad’s rough. Flush with victory, his troops marched straight to the Kaaba. Seven times they circled the shrine, as those who would come to seek its protection appeal to their idols.