Archery

Archery has stood as a beacon of nobility across civilisations and epochs, its significance transcending mere physical prowess to embody values of discipline, skill, and honour. From the ancient battlefields where skilled archers turned the tide of wars to the tranquil forests where hunters provided sustenance for their communities, the bow and arrow have been revered tools of survival and strength.

Through the ages, archery has been more than a martial or utilitarian skill, it has been a path to personal mastery and cultural identity. Its benefits extend beyond the mere act of shooting arrows, fostering traits such as patience, focus, and resilience.

In sport, archery showcases the epitome of precision and technique, while in spiritual traditions, it becomes a means of achieving inner harmony and enlightenment. In the era of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, archery stood as a dominant discipline, emphasized for its importance. The Prophet himself actively encouraged its practice, observing and fostering competitions among his followers.

“Allah admits three people into Paradise because of one arrow. The one who makes it, doing so with the intention of good, the one who shoots it, and the one who hands it over to the archer”

[Sahih Muslim 5:2204]

The Sahabah used to practice archery regularly, they would have two targets on opposite end and they would shoot at one target and would walk towards the target to retrieve their arrows. Then they would turn around to shoot the opposite target. Even in their old age they never gave up on their practice.

Today, the value of archery endures, endorsed by health organizations for its efficacy in enhancing upper body strength, balance, and coordination. Furthermore, its therapeutic benefits extend to mental health patients, bolstering their capacity for concentration and focus.