The Companion Umayr ibn Wahb

Lineage and Family of Umayr ibn Wahb

He is Umayr ibn Wahb al-Jumahi al-Qurashi, from the clan of Banu Jumah, one of the well-known and influential tribes of Quraysh in Mecca. Umayr was born into a prestigious family among his people and was one of the chiefs and courageous men of Quraysh. From a young age, he was known for his bravery, wisdom, and leadership skills, and he stood out for his eloquence and strategic thinking.

Umayr’s father, Wahb al-Jumahi, was a prominent figure in Quraysh, respected for his opinion and social standing, which Umayr inherited. He grew up in an environment that deeply revered tribal customs, and initially, he was one of the fiercest enemies of Islam.

The Conversion of Umayr ibn Wahb to Islam

The story of Umayr’s conversion reflects his remarkable character. After the Battle of Badr, where Quraysh suffered a major defeat and Umayr’s son was killed, his hatred toward Islam intensified.

Around that time, he sat with Safwan ibn Umayyah, both grieving Quraysh’s losses, and discussed their situation. Safwan said, "There is no good in life after Badr", to which Umayr sighed and replied, "If it were not for the debt I owe and my children whom I fear for, I would go and kill Muhammad".

Safwan offered to cover his debts and take care of his family if he carried out the assassination. Umayr then sharpened his sword, poisoned it, and set off for Medina.

When he entered the mosque, Omar ibn al-Khattab noticed him and immediately suspected ill intentions, so he reported to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The Prophet ordered that Umayr be brought before him.

Facing the Prophet, Umayr initially claimed that he came for a personal matter, but the Prophet ﷺ exposed his true plan, recounting the conversation he had with Safwan, word for word. Shocked and awestruck, Umayr exclaimed, "I bear witness that you are the Messenger of Allah! We used to deny your divine message, but no one was present to hear my conversation with Safwan!"

Umayr immediately embraced Islam, and the light of faith entered his heart. He transformed from a sworn enemy to a loyal soldier of Islam.

The Role of Umayr ibn Wahb in Islam

After embracing Islam, Umayr became one of its most active preachers and sincere soldiers. He requested permission from the Prophet ﷺ to return to Mecca and invite others to Islam, and the Prophet agreed. Back in Mecca, Umayr carried the torch of faith, bravely calling people to Islam despite the imminent dangers he faced.

Thanks to his wisdom, eloquence, and courage, many prominent individuals embraced Islam through him. His presence alone in Mecca was powerful, known as a fierce warrior, Umayr became a beacon of light instead of fear.

He also participated in many battles and expeditions alongside the Prophet ﷺ after his migration and remained steadfast in defending Islam with both his tongue and sword.

Qualities of Umayr ibn Wahb

After converting to Islam, Umayr embodied many exceptional traits, including:

• Bravery: A fearless warrior, before and after Islam.
• Truthfulness: Known for his honesty and pure devotion to the faith.
• Wisdom and strategic thinking: A smart leader who tackled opponents with reasoning before battle.
• Steadfastness: He stood firm in his belief despite persecution and hardship in Mecca.
• Humility: Once a proud nobleman, he became a humble servant of Islam after his conversion.

Virtues of Umayr ibn Wahb

Umayr ibn Wahb holds many virtues that immortalized his name in Islamic history, including:

• Early Conversion: He embraced Islam during a time of intense persecution, showing immense faith.
• Bold Preaching: He risked his life returning to Mecca to preach Islam openly and fearlessly.
• Enduring Persecution: He remained patient despite the harm he suffered for the sake of his faith.
• Loyalty to the Prophet ﷺ: He sincerely defended and supported the Prophet with all his might.
• Positive Influence: Many people accepted Islam through his invitation and personal example.

Historians have said: "Umayr ibn Wahb was among the best of the Companions, with pure faith and deeds until he joined the Prophet ﷺ in the highest ranks of Paradise".

The Death of Umayr ibn Wahb

Sources do not specify the exact year of Umayr’s death, but it occurred in the early days of Islam after he had fulfilled his mission of spreading and defending the faith. It is confirmed that he died during the caliphate of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him).

It is said that he remained steadfast in his belief until Allah took his soul. He was likely buried either in Mecca or Medina. His death was a great loss to the Muslim community, but he left behind a legacy of bravery, faith, and unwavering dedication.