The Companion Suhayb ibn Sinan (ar-Rumi)

Biography of the Companion Suhayb ibn Sinan

Suhayb ibn Sinan, also known as Suhayb ar-Rumi (the Roman), was one of the early and devoted companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Known for his resilience, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to Islam, Suhayb’s story reflects a life of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph. From slavery to spiritual freedom, Suhayb’s journey is both inspirational and historically significant.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Lineage and Family

Suhayb ibn Sinan was born in the town of al-Uballah near the Euphrates River in present-day Iraq. He belonged to the Arab tribe of An-Namr ibn Qasit, a tribe originally from Iraq. His father, Sinan ibn Malik, was a prominent governor appointed by the Persian king in the region. Suhayb lived a life of comfort and privilege during his early childhood.

However, his life changed dramatically when the Byzantines raided the region, taking young Suhayb as a slave. He spent several years in Byzantium (Eastern Roman Empire), during which he forgot much of the Arabic language and adopted the Greek tongue and Roman customs. It was because of this period that he came to be known as "Suhayb ar-Rumi" — Suhayb the Roman.

Eventually, he escaped and traveled to Mecca, where he worked his way into freedom and prosperity as a successful trader. Despite his foreign accent and Roman appearance, he earned respect for his honesty and business acumen.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Acceptance of Islam

Suhayb’s journey to Islam was as profound as it was personal. He was among the first individuals to embrace Islam, doing so shortly after the message of Islam began to spread in Mecca. He accepted Islam in the house of Arqam ibn Abi Arqam, the secret center for early Muslim teachings.

Suhayb accepted Islam at the same time as Ammar ibn Yasir, both of whom were poor and without tribal protection in Mecca. Like many of the early Muslims, Suhayb faced severe persecution from the Quraysh. His wealth, status, and even personal safety were jeopardized, but he remained steadfast in his belief.

What made Suhayb unique was his dual identity. Though Arab by lineage, he was considered a foreigner in Mecca due to his Roman upbringing and accent. This made him a frequent target of ridicule and abuse by the Quraysh elite. Nevertheless, Suhayb's faith never wavered.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Virtues

Suhayb was known for his strong character, deep faith, and immense generosity. His devotion to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and the message of Islam was unquestionable.

Among his most distinguished virtues:

• Truthfulness: Suhayb was known for his honesty and transparency in all matters, whether in trade or personal affairs.
• Generosity: Even after achieving prosperity, Suhayb was known to give away large portions of his wealth for the sake of Allah.
• Humility: Despite his close relationship with the Prophet ﷺ and his eventual high status in the Muslim community, Suhayb remained modest.
• Steadfastness in adversity: He endured intense persecution in Mecca without ever renouncing his faith.

The Prophet ﷺ once said of him:

"Suhayb has preceded you in paradise".

This was about his willingness to sacrifice all of his wealth just to migrate to Medina.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Achievements

One of Suhayb’s most notable achievements came during the Hijrah (migration) to Medina. When he tried to leave Mecca, the Quraysh tried to stop him, knowing he had gained wealth through trade. In an extraordinary act of faith, Suhayb told them:

"You know that I am one of the best archers. If you try to stop me, I will fight you. But if I show you where my wealth is, will you let me go?"

The Quraysh agreed, and Suhayb gave up all his wealth and property to gain the freedom to practice his faith and join the Prophet ﷺ in Medina. When the Prophet heard of this, he was deeply moved and said:

"Suhayb has made a successful trade, Suhayb has made a successful trade".
(Reported by Ibn Sa’d in Tabaqat and others)

In Medina, Suhayb continued to contribute to the Muslim community both spiritually and socially. He became known for his wise advice and deep piety. After the Prophet’s death, he remained a respected elder among the companions.

One of his greatest honors came after the death of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. Before his passing, Umar appointed a council of six to choose the next caliph. While the decision was pending, Umar appointed Suhayb to lead the Muslims in prayer, a symbolic trust reflecting Suhayb’s high moral standing and credibility in the community.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Battles

Suhayb participated in many of the key battles of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, including:

• Battle of Badr (624 CE): The first major battle between the Muslims and the Quraysh of Mecca. Suhayb’s bravery and loyalty were evident on the battlefield.
• Battle of Uhud (625 CE): Suhayb stood firm with the Prophet during the time of chaos when many fled or were disoriented.
• Battle of the Trench (Khandaq) (627 CE): He contributed to the defense of Medina against the coalition forces.
• Treaty of Hudaybiyyah (628 CE): Though not a battle, this treaty marked a turning point in Islamic diplomacy, and Suhayb was part of the Muslim delegation.
• Conquest of Mecca (630 CE): Suhayb returned triumphantly with the Prophet ﷺ and the Muslims to Mecca, seeing the city where he once suffered become a place of Islamic governance and peace.

He continued to serve in the military and administrative efforts during the caliphates of Abu Bakr and Umar.

Suhayb ibn Sinan Death

Suhayb ibn Sinan lived a long and honorable life. After the Prophet’s death, he remained a pillar of the Muslim community. During the transitional period between Caliph Umar’s death and the appointment of Uthman ibn Affan, Suhayb was entrusted with leading the prayers — a gesture that underscored his trustworthiness and esteem.

He passed away during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, though exact dates vary among historians. He is said to have died in Medina, and his funeral was attended by many of the prominent companions.

His life was a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and personal sacrifice. From being captured as a child and raised among foreigners to becoming one of the most beloved and respected companions of the Prophet ﷺ, Suhayb’s journey remains an inspiring legacy for Muslims around the world.