Uqbah ibn Amir al-Juhani

Uqba ibn Amir al-Juhani (died ca. 58 AH / 677 CE) was a distinguished Companion of the Prophet ﷺ, a hadith narrator, poet, and administrator who served as governor of Egypt during the caliphate of Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan. He was from the tribe of Juhaina and participated in the pledge of Aqabah, though scholars differ on whether this was the second pledge.

He was one of those close to the Prophet ﷺ who served as a carrier of messages and a reliable presence in the household. He narrated numerous hadith covering topics from prayer and fasting to the virtues of Surah al-Falaq and al-Nas — two surahs he is reported to have received directly from the Prophet in detail. His narrations are found in all six major hadith collections.

He excelled in archery and was one of those who transmitted the Quranic verse encouraging the cultivation of archery skills. He reportedly continued to practice archery throughout his life and encouraged others to take up the skill. He also composed poetry and was literate at a time when literacy among Arabs was uncommon.

Uqba ibn Amir served as governor of Egypt from around 44 to 47 AH under Muawiyah, administering the province and leading the Muslims there in prayer and governance. After his term ended, he retired to Egypt where he remained until his death around 58 AH. He was buried in Egypt, and his tomb is in Cairo. He is one of the most prolific Companion narrators whose traditions shaped the understanding of Islamic practice.