Why did Muhammad and his followers leave Mecca for Medina in 622?

In 622, Muhammad and his followers migrated from Mecca to Medina—an event known as the Hijra—primarily to escape intense persecution and to secure a safer environment for their growing community.123

Following Muhammad’s public preaching of monotheism, which challenged the traditional religious beliefs and practices of the Quraysh tribe, he and his followers faced increasing hostility, including harassment, violence, and a social boycott. The situation became critical around 619 following the deaths of his wife, Khadījah, and his uncle Abū Ṭālib, who had provided him with vital protection. When his successor as clan leader withdrew this support, Muhammad was no longer safe in Mecca.23

After failing to find refuge in Al-Ṭā’if, Muhammad secured a pledge of protection from representatives of Yathrib (Medina). He and his followers subsequently departed for the oasis town, narrowly escaping an assassination plot by the Quraysh in the process. This migration marked the beginning of the Islamic calendar and allowed the Muslims to establish an autonomous community, or ummah.2345