Mention of Buffalo in Islamic History and Its Usage

Author: Inayatullah Madani (Hafizahullah)

Introduction: Buffalo in Islamic History​

There is no doubt that during the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, the mention of buffaloes is absent as they had not been introduced to that region. However, buffaloes were present in other parts of the world, such as Africa, Asia, and Egypt. Dr. Abdul Ghani Abu Al-Azam notes:

"The buffalo (جواميس) is a large type of cattle with domestic and wild species found in Africa and Asia."
Prominent scholars like Muhammad bin Abdul Haq Yafrani also mention buffaloes in Egypt, where they swam in the Nile and grazed on land.

Buffalo in the Time of the Companions and Later Generations​

Although buffaloes were not present during the time of the Prophet ﷺ, historical texts reveal that they existed during the eras following the Companions. Muslims of those times kept large numbers of buffaloes and utilized them for various purposes, such as sacrifices, milk consumption, and even for agricultural and medicinal needs.

Buffalo as an Animal for Sacrifice​

① Ali ibn Abi Talib (رضي الله عنه) narrated:

“A buffalo can suffice as a sacrifice for seven people.”
This narration is mentioned in Firdous Bi Ma'thoor Al-Khitab, and several scholars, including Sheikh Muhammad Munir Qamar, have discussed its classification, considering it a weak narration but indicative of its historical relevance.

Zakat on Buffaloes​

Prominent scholars and Imams like Hasan Al-Basri, Umar bin Abdul Aziz, Imam Malik, Imam Shafi'i, and others ruled that buffaloes fall under the same category as cows for the purpose of zakat.

Buffaloes as a Solution to Predatory Threats​

③ During the reign of Caliph Al-Mu'tasim Billah, buffaloes were sent in large numbers to deter wild animals along the dangerous routes between Antakya and Misis. These buffaloes successfully reduced the threat of wild beasts, making travel safer.

Similarly, Muhammad bin Qasim, the governor of Sindh, sent thousands of buffaloes to different regions as a resource for various state needs.

Buffaloes in Agricultural Development​

④ Governors like Hajjaj bin Yusuf played a key role in agricultural development by transferring buffaloes and agricultural workers from Sindh to underdeveloped regions within the Islamic empire.

⑤ Abdullah bin Abi Bakr was known for his generosity, gifting large herds of buffaloes to those in need. When someone needed buffalo milk for medical treatment, he gifted them hundreds of buffaloes instead of lending them just one.

Buffaloes in Syria and Yemen​

⑥ Buffaloes were introduced to Syria during the reigns of rulers like Yazid bin Abdul Malik and Al-Mu’tasim. Initially brought from Basra and surrounding regions, these buffaloes became a vital part of the region’s economy and agriculture.

⑦ Pre-Islamic Yemen also saw buffaloes due to its fertile land and grazing areas, as noted by historians and explorers like Shoenifert.

Historical Accounts of Buffalo Raids and Contributions​

⑧ In some instances, buffaloes were the target of raids. For example, during a Roman attack, 400 buffaloes were stolen from a Muslim settlement, prompting acts of charity and resilience among the affected Muslims.

⑨ The Death of Ahmad bin Tulun was linked to his excessive consumption of buffalo milk while in Antioch, leading to severe indigestion and his eventual demise.

Trade and Imports of Buffaloes in the Islamic World​

⑩ The import and export of livestock, including buffaloes, were integral to the Islamic economy. Buffaloes were often imported from India to meet the needs of various regions, contributing to sacrifices and agricultural purposes.

Buffaloes in Historical Famines and Epidemics​

⑪ Various historical events, such as the plague in Halab (Aleppo), led to the death of thousands of buffaloes. These events were recorded by scholars like Ibn Al-Adim and others, highlighting the significant presence of buffaloes in the region.

Notable Wealth in Buffalo Herds​

⑫ Leaders like Shah Afzal left behind vast herds of buffaloes and other livestock. Their milk production alone generated considerable income, reflecting the economic importance of buffaloes.

Conclusion: The Historical Significance of Buffaloes​

The history of buffaloes within Islamic lands spans various eras, reflecting their vital role in sacrifice, agriculture, trade, and state development. Their integration into Muslim life underscores their importance across different regions and historical periods.

Allah knows best.