The Binding of Abu Bakr and Talha
The incident of Nawfal tying Abu Bakr and Talha is recorded in Ibn Sa’d and other early sirah sources. When both men became Muslim in the early Meccan period, Nawfal, exercising power within the Quraysh social structure, physically bound them together — forcing them to spend time in punishment for their conversion.
This is one of the earliest recorded instances of organized physical persecution directed at specific Companions. Before the general persecution of the weak and enslaved, prominent converts from Quraysh also faced targeted social violence.
The Epithet “al-Asad”
Nawfal was called “the Lion” among the Quraysh — a title suggesting both physical courage and a capacity for violence. His death at Badr removed one of the more formidable Meccan opponents.
The Prophet’s Response
When news of Nawfal’s death at Badr reached the Muslims, the Prophet reportedly said: “Ujibu fi asad Quraysh” — “I have been answered regarding the Lion of Quraysh.” This is understood as referring to a prayer the Prophet had made against Nawfal specifically in response to his persecution of the early believers, including his binding of Abu Bakr and Talha.
See also: Seerah Talha Ibn Ubaydullah, Abu Bakr Al Siddiq, Seerah Musab Ibn Umayr, Seerah Khabbab Ibn Al Aratt, Seerah Sad Ibn Muadh