The Childhood Companion Who Turned Enemy
Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith was not merely the Prophet’s cousin. He was his closest childhood companion — they grew up together in the Banu Hashim household, played together, and were by all accounts like brothers in youth.
This makes his rejection all the more bitter. At the start of the Prophetic mission, Abu Sufyan did not simply ignore or stay neutral. He became an active enemy: composing and spreading satirical hija’ (satirical poetry) mocking the Prophet, his message, and his followers. This poetry, some of which is preserved in the sira literature, was calculated to undermine the Prophet’s standing among the Quraysh. Twenty years of this.
Conversion at Fath Mecca
When the Prophet led 10,000 Muslims toward Mecca in 8 AH, Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith was among those who came to meet him — this time in submission. He attempted to approach the Prophet and was refused. The Prophet turned his face away from his cousin. Abu Sufyan followed, presenting himself again and again, each time the Prophet averted.
Finally, Abu Sufyan quoted a verse of the Quran: “He [Joseph] said: ‘No blame is on you today. God will forgive you — He is the Most Merciful of the merciful’” (12:92). The Prophet’s heart broke open. He relented, turned to his cousin, accepted him.
After Conversion
Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith became one of the most devoted Companions. His earlier poetic facility turned to the service of Islam — he composed poetry in the Prophet’s defense. He participated in the campaigns that followed and wept bitterly at the Prophet’s death.
He is reported to have said, referring to his two decades of enmity: “I do not know what I was doing.”
See also: Seerah Al Walid Ibn Al Mughirah, Seerah Nawfal Ibn Khuwaylid, Seerah Al Mukhtar Al Thaqafi, Abu Bakr Al Siddiq, Seerah Khalid Ibn Walid