Letter to the Roman Emperor

The Prophet wrote to him: “In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” “From Muhammad, the servant and Messenger of Allah, to Heraclius, the great king of Rome.” “Blessed are those who follow Guidance. Embrace Islam that you may find peace. Allah will reward you twofold. If you reject this message, then on you shall rest the sin of your subjects and followers.”

“[Allah says in the Qur’an]: O people of the Book: Come to that which is common between you and us, that we may serve none but Allah, nor associate anything with Him, nor take others for Lords besides Allah. But if they turn away, then say: Bear witness that we are Muslims.”

Dihya bin Khalifa Kalbi, who was assigned to deliver the letter, gave it to the ruler of Basra, who forwarded it to the Roman emperor. Heraclius had come walking to Jerusalem from Hims in Syria. His pilgrimage was an offering of thanks to God for the Roman victory over the Persians. Upon receipt of the Prophet’s letter, he rushed a courier to bring forward any man familiar with the Prophet . A caravan of the Quraysh headed by Abu Sufyan was in the area and was summoned before Heraclius and his courtiers. Heraclius inquired, “Who is closest to Muhammad in terms of lineage?” “Abu Sufyan,” the people revealed.

Heraclius called Abu Sufyan closer and seated the others behind him. He then announced to the Quraysh, “I shall ask him [Abu Sufyan] about him [the Prophet]. If he tells a lie, you should refute it.” Abu Sufyan felt obliged to tell the truth. The conversation between Heraclius and Abu Sufyan ran thus: Heraclius: Tell me about his lineage.

Abu Sufyan: He comes of the best lineage.

Heraclius: Did anybody before him make the claim he does?

Abu Sufyan: No.

Heraclius: Have there been any kings in his family?

Abu Sufyan: No.

Heraclius: Who are his followers? Are they the poor and  weak, or are they nobles?

Abu Sufyan: They are all poor and weak.

Heraclius: Are his followers increasing or dwindling?

Abu Sufyan: Their numbers are growing.

Heraclius: Do those who enter his religion despise and leave him?

Abu Sufyan: No.

Heraclius: Did you catch him lying before he claimed to be a prophet?

Abu Sufyan: No.