Najashi: Throughout history, there have been remarkable individuals whose actions surpassed religious and cultural boundaries. One such extraordinary figure is Najashi, the king of Abyssinia, who ruled over a Christian kingdom in Africa.
Loved and respected by his people, Najashi played a pivotal role in the early days of Islam by offering unwavering support to Muslim immigrants seeking refuge in his kingdom.
This article explores the inspiring account of Najashi and his remarkable assistance to those in need.
Najashi’s Support for Muslim Immigrants
During the early stages of Islam, when Muslims faced persecution in Mecca, Prophet Muhammad thought of having a safe place for his followers.
He wrote a letter to Najashi, the king of Abyssinia, and sent his cousin Jaffer ibn Abi Talib along with a small group of Muslims to seek sanctuary in Abyssinia. Their hope was to find a place where they could freely practice their religion without fear of oppression.
Jaffer led a delegation of over 80 Muslim immigrants to Abyssinia, seeking solace and protection in Najashi’s kingdom. However, the opponents of Islam informed Najashi about the arrival of the Muslims and demanded that they should not be given shelter in Abyssinia.
Jaffer’s Response
Intrigued by the situation, Najashi invited the Muslim immigrants to his court and requested Jaffer, their leader, to explain about their new faith and also inform him about the reason why they had to leave their homeland.
With confidence and respect, Jaffer addressed Najashi, sharing the essence of their faith. He conveyed, “O King, Allah has sent us a Prophet, peace be upon him, from among our own people.
He is known for his noble lineage, truthfulness, trustworthiness, and integrity. Our Prophet called us to worship Allah alone, renouncing the stones and idols that our ancestors used to worship.
He commanded us to uphold Salah (prayer), give Zakat (charity), and fast during the month of Ramadan.”
Jaffer explained that they wholeheartedly believed in the Prophet and embraced his teachings from Allah. However, due to the relentless oppression and persecution they faced, they sought refuge in Abyssinia to freely practice their religion.
Najashi’s Reaction
Deeply impressed by Jaffer’s response, Najashi expressed his curiosity to learn more about this new faith. He urged Jaffer to share some verses from the revelations brought by the Prophet.
In a melodious voice, Jaffer recited a portion of Surah Maryam, specifically verses 19 to 32. As Najashi listened to the words of Allah, he was profoundly moved.
He turned to the Meccan delegates who demanded the expulsion of the Muslims and firmly declared, “I will not hand them over to you, and I will defend them.”
Najashi’s Support and Legacy
Embracing the Muslim immigrants, Najashi extended his protection and hospitality to them. When Prophet Muhammad eventually conquered Mecca, the Muslim immigrants, accompanied by Jaffer, returned to Medina. They carried with them immense gratitude for Najashi’s unwavering support.
Najashi was the first king to accept Islam. A few years after the events described, he passed away as a Muslim, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, justice, and unwavering support for those seeking refuge.
Conclusion
Najashi: The story of Najashi, the king who supported Muslim immigrants, serves as a shining example of empathy and religious tolerance. In a time when the early Muslim community faced persecution and oppression, Najashi provided a safe haven and defended their right to practice their faith.
His acceptance of Islam and steadfast support for the Muslim immigrants will forever be remembered as an inspiration, transcending boundaries and inspiring generations to come.
