Recovered working period
628–629 CE (7 AH) · Madinah
Chronology/date label — item-level verification ongoing.
Recovered historical report
After Hudaybiyyah, the Prophet ﷺ sent letters to the rulers of the world, inviting them to Islam. He sent Dihyah al-Kalbi to Heraclius, the Roman Emperor; ‘Abdullah bin Hudhafah to Khosrow II, the Persian Emperor; Hatib bin Abi Balta‘ah to al-Muqawqis, the ruler of Egypt; and others to the Negus of Abyssinia and to kings of Yemen, Syria, and Oman. The letters were sealed and began: “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim. From Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, to the Great One of the Romans…” Heraclius recognised the truth but feared losing his throne. Khosrow tore the letter and was torn apart by his son.
This is a recovered working report. Quran/hadith/quotation/date/detail inside it is not automatically authenticated or a final scholarly conclusion.
meUus working lesson
The Prophet ﷺ addressed kings as equals. Islam is for all humanity, not just the Arabs. His message reached the world.
A lesson is not the same as historical fact or a religious ruling.
Reflection / For Today
Do not be afraid to speak the truth to those in power. The Prophet ﷺ wrote to emperors with confidence.
Deeper revisit — recovered working copy
Reminder: Heraclius questioned Abu Sufyan (then non-Muslim) about the Prophet. Abu Sufyan admitted the Prophet’s truthfulness.
Revisit context: Even enemies testified to the Prophet’s character.
Working reflection: The Persian emperor tore the letter; his kingdom was torn apart. The Roman emperor kept the letter; his kingdom lost its eastern provinces to Islam.
Working practical step: Learn the names of the kings the Prophet wrote to. Share this story with a non-Muslim friend.
Journey reflection: The letter to the Negus was different; he had already accepted Islam. Your letters (your words) can bring people to truth.