Suhaib bin Sinan
also known as Suhaib al-Roumi, a companion and sire of Bani Taym ibn Murrah, one of the forerunners to Islam, and one of the weak in Mecca who were tortured to leave the religion of Islam. Suhaib left all his money to emigrate to Medina and join the Prophet Muhammad, and he participated with him in all his conquests. And when Umar ibn al-Khattab was stabbed, he ordered Suhaib to lead the Muslims in prayer until the people of Shura chose the new caliph. And when Othman was killed, Suhaib retired from sedition until he died in Medina in Shawwal in the year 38 AH.
his biography
Suhaib bin Sinan, also known as Suhaib al-Roumi, was born on the Euphrates island near Nineveh. He belonged to the Bani al-Nimr bin Qasit tribe, a lineage rooted in the heritage of Rabia bin Nizar. During his early years, Suhaib faced captivity when the Romans raided his people's homes. Fleeing from captivity, he eventually arrived in Mecca and sought refuge with ally Ibn Jadaan. His mother, Salma bint Qaid bin Muhaid, hailed from the Bani Tamim tribe.
Suhaib embraced Islam in the early days of the Prophet Muhammad's call to faith. Alongside Ammar bin Yasser, he converted to Islam within hours of the Prophet Muhammad's entry into the house of Al-Arqam to pray. Despite being among the first converts, Suhaib faced severe persecution and torture at the hands of the Quraysh. Alongside other early Muslims, including Abu Bakr, Bilal, Khabab, Ammar bin Yasser, and Sumayyah Umm Ammar, Suhaib endured immense suffering. A verse was revealed in response to the plight of these oppressed Muslims, emphasizing God's forgiveness, mercy, and guidance.
When Suhaib sought to migrate to Yathrib (later known as Medina), objections arose among the people of Mecca. To ensure his safe departure, Suhaib ingeniously scattered his quiver and gave his pursuers the choice to shoot him or reveal his hidden money. They chose the latter, allowing him to escape with his wealth. Suhaib migrated to Yathrib alongside Ali bin Abi Talib, arriving on the 15th of Rabi` al-Awwal in the year 1 AH.
Throughout the Prophet Muhammad's conquests, Suhaib actively participated, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to Islam. Following the Prophet's passing, Suhaib continued to reside in Medina, earning respect and reverence among Muslims. When the need arose, he was chosen by Umar Ibn Al-Khattab to lead the Muslims in prayer after Umar's stabbing. Later, during the tumultuous events following the death of Caliph Othman bin Affan, Suhaib chose to retire, displaying wisdom in the face of strife.
Suhaib's unique background and steadfastness earned him recognition from the Prophet Muhammad, who described him as the "racer of the Romans." His legacy endures as a symbol of resilience, intelligence, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity, inspiring generations of Muslims with his story. Suhaib al-Roumi's life serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of early Muslims and their unyielding dedication to Islam.
his standing
Suhaib bin Sinan, also known as Suhaib al-Roumi, held a special place in the eyes of the Prophet Muhammad and the early Muslim community. His esteemed standing was exemplified through various narrations and interactions with the companions.
Anas bin Malik shared a saying of the Prophet Muhammad, highlighting the diversity within the Muslim community: “There are four races: I am the racer of the Arabs, Suhaib is the racer of the Romans, Bilal is the racer of the Abyssinians, and Salman is the racer of the Persians.” This statement emphasizes the unity of believers regardless of their backgrounds.
Additionally, Yazid bin Saifi bin Suhaib bin Sinan relayed a profound message from the Prophet Muhammad: “Whoever believes in God and the Last Day, let him love Suhaib as a mother loves her child.” This expression of affection underscores the deep bond between Suhaib and the entire Muslim community.
Aslam, Umar’s freed slave, recounted an encounter with Suhaib, where Umar ibn al-Khattab questioned Suhaib’s identity. Suhaib’s response revealed his steadfastness and pride in his heritage. Despite being an Arab with a non-Arabic tongue due to his upbringing among the Romans, he held firm to his identity as a man from Al-Nimr bin Qasit.
Furthermore, Al-Dhahabi, in his description of Suhaib, portrayed him as a virtuous and revered individual, marked by his generosity and magnanimity. Suhaib’s character and unwavering commitment to his faith made him a beloved figure among the companions and a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Suhaib al-Roumi's legacy serves as a testament to the strength of character and unity within the early Muslim community, reflecting the diversity and richness of the Islamic heritage. His story continues to inspire believers, reminding them of the importance of faith, resilience, and love for fellow Muslims, regardless of their backgrounds.