Page 53 - A Call For Unity

The letter to the Christian king of Ethiopia
Negus (or al-Najashi) is an important exam-
ple of the Muslims' attitude toward
Christians. Following Muhammad's (may
Allah bless him and grant him peace) letter
and his discussions with the Muslim leader
and the leader of the Makkan delegation
sent to take them back to Makkah, King
Najashi proclaimed that he would protect all
Muslims who sought refuge in his country.
The letter said:
"I praise Allah to you, except Whom there is
none to be worshipped, the King, the Holy,
the Peace, the Faithful, the Watcher, and I
bear witness that Jesus, son of Mary, is the
Spirit of Allah and His Word, Which He cast
to Mary the virgin, the good, the pure, so
that she conceived Jesus. Allah created him from His Spirit and His Breathing. I
call you to Allah, the Unique without partner, and to His obedience, and to follow
me and believe in that which came to me, for I am the Messenger of Allah.
... I invite you and your armies to Allah. I have accomplished my work and my
admonition, so receive my advice. Peace upon all those that follow True
Guidance."

The original of the letter sent by the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless
him and grant him peace) to Shamir al-Ghassani, king of Ghassan.

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