Detailed Account

During the pilgrimage season, while approaching different tribes at Aqabah in Mina, the Prophet ﷺ encountered six men from the Khazraj tribe of Yathrib (later Madinah). Unlike other Arabs, these men immediately recognized his description from Jewish neighbors in Yathrib who often spoke of an expected prophet. When he presented Islam to them, they told each other: 'By Allah, this is the prophet whom the Jews have been threatening us with. Don't let them beat us to him.' All six accepted Islam: As'ad ibn Zurarah, Awf ibn Harith, Rafi' ibn Malik, Qutbah ibn Amir, Uqbah ibn Amir, and Jabir ibn Abdullah. Unlike other tribes who demanded political power or tribal advantages, they embraced Islam purely on its merits. They explained to the Prophet ﷺ the complex situation in Yathrib—ongoing conflict between their tribes (Aws and Khazraj) and the presence of three powerful Jewish tribes (Banu Qaynuqa, Banu Nadir, and Banu Qurayza). They expressed hope that Allah might unite their divided community through him. Before departing, they promised to present his message to their people and return the following year. This seemingly modest encounter would prove pivotal in Islamic history, opening the door to a receptive community that would soon become Islam's first genuine home. The Divine wisdom in this meeting is evident—these men were ideally positioned to appreciate a message of unity and monotheism due to their exposure to Jewish teachings and their tribal circumstances. Unlike the materially comfortable Makkans, they had practical needs that Islam's ethical and social teachings could address.