The Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, recognized their status and rank among their people

Under category: How He treated them?

Abu Sufyaan was one of the elders of Quraysh, and then became their leader after the death of the rest of its leaders. During the Battle of Uhud, he was the leader of Quraysh. When he accepted Islam, the Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, specifically mentioned him when conquering Makkah.

‘Abdullaah ibn `Abbaas (the Prophet’s cousin) reported that his father Al-`Abbaas ibn `Abd Al-Muttalib brought Abu Sufyaan to the Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, to accept Islam, which he did. Al-`Abbaas said: “O Messenger of Allah, Abu Sufyaan is someone who likes honor and glory, so if only you would mention him in some fashion.” The Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said: “Yes; whoever enters the house of Abu Sufyaan is safe, and whoever locks their door is also safe.”

Abu Hurayrah (a Companion) reported at the conquest of Makkah and said

“The Messenger of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, ascended Mount Safa, then the Ansaar approached and circuited Safaa. Then Abu Sufyaan approached and said: ‘The blood of Quraysh has been annihilated; there is no Quraysh after today.’ Then the Prophet of Allah, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said: ‘Whoever enters the house of Abu Sufyaan is safe; whoever puts their weapon down is safe; whoever locks their door is safe.’”

An-Nawawi (a scholar) said: “This is a form of softening the heart of Abu Sufyaan, as well as showing his position and nobility.”