Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith

Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith ibn Abd al-Muttalib (died ca. 20 AH / 641 CE) was a cousin and foster brother of the Prophet ﷺ, raised alongside him. For most of his life he was one of the Prophet's most bitter opponents among Quraysh, composing satirical poetry mocking the Prophet and the early Muslims and actively opposing the spread of Islam.

He converted to Islam at the time of the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, around 6 AH, or according to some accounts at the Conquest of Mecca in 8 AH. His conversion was initially treated with skepticism by the Prophet's household due to the depth of his earlier enmity. He presented himself to the Prophet, who turned away from him repeatedly. It was only when Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith recited the Quranic verse about the brothers of Yusuf and their plea for forgiveness that the Prophet ﷺ accepted him and wept.

After his conversion, Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith underwent a dramatic transformation. He became intensely devoted to worship and repentance, reportedly weeping frequently, abandoning all comfort, and channeling his poetic gift into praise of the Prophet. He fought at the Battle of Hunayn and held the Prophet's bridle during the battle when many fled, one of the few who stood firm.

He died in Medina around 20 AH, reportedly in a state of deep spirituality. His body was buried while he had dug his own grave in preparation for death. The Prophet ﷺ praised his final state. His transformation from bitter enemy to devoted disciple is one of the most dramatic conversion stories among the Qurayshi nobility.