The Muslims went to Yathreb—a town some 200 miles north of Mecca—where the Prophet (sas) had some followers. But even their migration did not appease the anger of the Meccans. Instead, they became all the more bitter and violent in their opposition. They would not let the Muslims live in peace and safety.
They planned to pursue the fugitives to Medina and to slaughter them. Many a time with large armies equipped with powerful weapons did they attack the Muslims. The Muslims met the invaders bravely and resisted their advances. Keeping in view the small number of the followers of the Prophet (sas), as compared to the Meccans, their phenomenal victory over their opponents cannot be explained except that this miracle was brought about solely through the grace of God.
These wars were fought in pure self-defence. It was only in their self-defence that the Holy Prophet (sas) ordered the Muslims to take up arms. No one can show that the Holy Prophet (sas) ever fought with the Meccans or, for that matter, with any other enemy except to defend himself. Even his critics admit that he fought because he was compelled to fight.
As the Muslims were never the first to attack their enemies but made war in order to save their own lives, they were helped and aided by the Almighty God and it was through His help that they were able to return as victors, to the city from which they had been driven out by force.