Part 1 · Page 266
Quraysh Offers ‘Umarah ibn al-Walid in Exchange
English rendering of the source section
Local English translation from the Arabic text; transmitted accounts, poetry, and editorial notes are distinguished.
This local English rendering may condense the Arabic narration and editorial notes. It is not a complete published English edition. Consult the Arabic source for exact wording and context.
Read the corresponding Arabic sectionWhen Quraysh realized that Abu Talib would not abandon his nephew, they came to him with ‘Umarah ibn al-Walid ibn al-Mughirah, a strong and handsome young man. They said, “Take him; you will have his support and strength, and adopt him as your son. Give us your nephew, who has opposed your religion and your forefathers, divided your people, and mocked their judgment, and we will kill him: one man in exchange for one.” Abu Talib replied, “What a terrible bargain! You give me your son to raise, and I give you mine to kill? By Allah, that will never be.” Al-Mut‘im ibn ‘Adi said Quraysh had been fair and tried to resolve what Abu Talib disliked. Abu Talib accused him of joining the others in abandoning and opposing him. The dispute intensified and open hostility followed.
The notes discuss the phrase describing Abu Talib’s sudden thought that he might be abandoned, and explain the imagery of placing the sun and moon in the Messenger’s hands. Al-Suhayli relates an interpretation of the two lights as perceptible signs and contrasts them with the light of revelation.