With reference to a Sahabi (a companion of Prophet Muhammad) Hadhrat Ja’far bin Abi Taalib and other Sahabah (Companions of Prophet Muhammad) who had migrated to Abyssinia, Rasulullaah (Prophet of Allah) sent the following letter with Hadhrat Amr bin Umayyah Dhamri to Abyssinian King Najaashi:
“In the name of Allah the: Most Kind, the Most Merciful
From Muhammad the Rasool of Allah
To Najaashi As’ham the king of Abyssinia
Peace be to you. Before you I praise Allah the Supreme Sovereign, Most Pure, Giver of peace and Protector.
I testify that Isa was the spirit that Allah created and His word that He cast to the chaste, pure and innocent Maryam. She bore Isa whom Allah created from the spirit and breath from Him just as Allah created Aadam by His hand and breath from Him.
I call you towards the One Allah Who has no partner and to dutifully obey Him. I invite you to follow me, to believe in me and in that which i have brought because I am the Rasool (Messenger) of Allah.
I have sent my cousin Ja’far to you together with a group of Muslims. When they arrive, do treat them as your guests without arrogance.
I invite you and your forces to (the worship of) the Glorious and Magnificent Allah. I have conveyed my message, given you good counsel so do accept my counsel.
Peace be on the one who follows the guidance”.
Reply of King Najaashi to Prophet Muhammad
Najaashi sent the following letter in reply to Rasulullaah (Prophet of Allah)
“In the name of Allah the Most Kind, the Most Merciful –
To Muhammad the Rasool of Allaah
From Najaashi As’ham bin Abjar
May the peace from Allah, His mercy and blessings be showered on you, O Nabi of Allah. There is none worthy of worship but He Who has guided me to Islam.
O Rasulullaah, your letter concerning Isa has reached me. I swear by the Rabb of the heavens and the earth that Isa himself never said more than what you have mentioned.
We understand the letter you have sent to us and we have entertained your cousin and his companions.
I testify that you are the true and accepted Rasool of Allah. I have pledged my allegiance to you at the hands of your cousin by whose hand I have accepted Islam for the pleasure of Allah the Rabb of the universe. I am sending to you (my son) Areeha bin As’ham bin Abjar.
I have control over none but my own self. O Rasulullaah, If you wish that I come to you personally, I am prepared to do so for I testify that whatever you say is the absolute truth”.1
1. Bayhaqi from Ibn Is’haaq as quoted in Al Bidaaya wan Nihaaya (Vo1.3 Pg.83).