The One Who Profited in the Bargain
Suhayb ar-Rumi صُهَيْب الرُّومِيّ
Captured as a child and raised among the Romans, Suhayb returned to Arabia, prospered as a merchant, and gave up his entire fortune to the Quraysh to be allowed to emigrate for his faith — a transaction the Qur'an honoured and the Prophet ﷺ called a profitable one.
Raised Among the Romans
Of Arab origin, Suhayb was taken captive as a boy and grew up speaking the language of the Byzantines (Rum), hence 'ar-Rumi'. He found his way back to Makkah, became a successful trader, and embraced Islam early — at the same time as Ammar ibn Yasir — enduring the persecution of Quraysh.
The Costly Hijrah
When Suhayb set out to emigrate to Madinah, the Quraysh blocked him, saying he had come to them poor and grown rich among them and would not leave with his wealth. He answered, 'If I give you my wealth, will you let me go?' They agreed. He handed over everything and emigrated with nothing.
'Abu Yahya Has Profited'
When Suhayb reached the Prophet ﷺ, the Prophet greeted him with delight: 'The transaction has profited, Abu Yahya — the transaction has profited!' Revelation, it is reported, came concerning those who sell themselves seeking the pleasure of Allah.
And among the people is he who sells himself seeking the pleasure of Allah. And Allah is Kind to His servants.
A Trust at the End of Umar's Life
Suhayb was so honoured that the dying Umar appointed him to lead the prayers while the council chose the next caliph. Generous and warm-hearted, he died in Madinah around 38 AH, having proven that no worldly loss compares to gaining one's faith.
Lessons
- Giving up everything for your faith is the most profitable trade of all.
- Worldly wealth is a small price for the pleasure of Allah.
- Trustworthiness earns the confidence of even the greatest leaders.
Quran references
2:207