An Outline of Early Islamic History — Page 79
79 with the sheep and goats of my old master?” The Prophet told him to set their face to Khaibar and drive them off. They would, he said, be guided to their master. And so they were. After the treaty of Hudaibiya, a Muslim turned up to ask for protection. He said he was ill - treated and feared persecution if he was sent back. The Prophet had agreed to send back any Meccan who joined him after the treaty. He kept his word and asked him t o go back trusting in God. Even the enemies of the Prophet spoke highly of his virtues. When Heraclius the Emperor of the Byzantines received the Prophet’s letter, he asked if an Arab caravan was in town. Abu Sufiyan, a Meccan chief, happened to be there. He was called to the court. The Emperor put some q uestions to him. Heraclius: Do you know this man who calls himself a Prophet? Can you tell me what family he belongs to ? Abu Sufiyan: He comes of a noble family. Heraclius: Did any Arabs before him make such a claim ? Abu Sufiyan: No. Heraclius: Has there been a king among his forefathers ? Abu Sufiyan: No. Heraclius : Are his followers rich and powerful or poor and humble ? Abu Sufiyan: Most of them are poor and humble. Heraclius: Are their number increasing or decreasing ? Abu Sufiyan: They are increasing. Heraclius: Has he ever broken a promise ? Abu Sufiyan: Not so far.